Environmental Challenges and Climate Systems

Why is plastic considered a significant environmental problem?

• It is too heavy to transport.

• It is expensive to produce.

• It is non-biodegradable and persists for centuries.

• It is not used widely enough.

What did the Michigan State University study reveal about biodegradable plastics?

• They are harmful to the environment.

• They are more expensive to produce.

• They do not degrade as intended.

• They decompose faster than expected.

What is the role of the Gulf Stream in climate regulation?

• It causes hurricanes.

• It warms the North Atlantic region.

• It cools the equator.

• It prevents ocean pollution.

What is the significance of the AMOC in global climate?

• It prevents earthquakes.

• It increases ocean salinity.

• It regulates ocean pollution.

• It acts as a conveyor belt for warm water.

What has been identified as a cause for the weakening of the AMOC?

• Increased volcanic activity.

• Decreased global temperatures.

• Melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet.

• Increased ocean salinity.