International Green Warrior Olympiad Class 11 Previous Year Papers

Q.1

As a responsible homeowner, you are considering installing a smart thermostat to control your home's heating and cooling system. You are aware of the potential benefits of smart thermostats, such as energy savings and improved comfort. However, you are also hesitant to make the switch due to concerns about cost and complexity.
Which of the following benefits would NOT incentivise you to install a smart thermostat?

Q.2

Researchers conducted an experiment to evaluate the impact of controlled burning on grassland ecosystems. The results indicate an increase in plant diversity post-burn.
What is the likely reason for this observation?

Q.3

Consider the case study given below and answer the following question:

Case Study: Rejuvenating the Red Desert

The once fertile plains of the Red Desert now lie barren and parched. Decades of unsustainable agricultural practices, deforestation, and overgrazing have stripped the land of its topsoil, leaving behind a landscape of eroded gullies and windblown sand. The local community, dependent on the land for their livelihood, faces diminishing harvests and increasing dust storms.

The Challenge: Restoring the Red Desert requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the physical and social dimensions of land degradation. The key challenges include:

-Soil erosion and nutrient depletion: Restoring soil fertility is crucial for supporting plant growth.
-Water scarcity: The arid climate presents a significant challenge for plant growth. Implementing water harvesting systems like rainwater cisterns and promoting drought-resistant crops can optimise water use.
-Loss of biodiversity: Restoring native plant and animal populations is essential for creating a healthy and resilient ecosystem. This can involve assisted regeneration, seed dispersal, and creating wildlife corridors.
- Community engagement: Sustainable land management requires the active participation of the local community. Building trust, providing training, and ensuring equitable access to resources are crucial for long-term success.

The Outcome: Over time, the Red Desert undergoes a remarkable transformation. Eroded gullies are filled with fertile soil, native plants flourish, and animal populations return. The community experiences increased food security and improved livelihoods, thanks to sustainable farming practices and diversified income sources. The success of the program serves as a model for other communities facing land degradation, demonstrating the power of collaboration and knowledge-based solutions in restoring lost ecosystems and building a sustainable future.

Which of the following statement(s) describes the relationship between deforestation and soil erosion in the Red Desert?

1. Deforestation disrupts the water cycle, reducing rainfall and increasing soil dryness, indirectly leading to erosion.
2. Deforestation directly causes soil erosion by exposing soil to wind and rain.
3. Deforestation increases rainfall, leading to flash floods and soil washout.

Q.4

Your community is contemplating the implementation of an electronics recycling program to address the growing e-waste issue. As a member of the planning committee, you're tasked with identifying key considerations for successful planning and execution of this program.

What are some critical factors that should be considered when planning and implementing an electronics recycling program for the community?

1. Public education and outreach to promote program awareness
2. Establishment of convenient drop-off locations for e-waste
3. Categorise e-waste based on type for targeted recycling

Q.5

Two islands in the Pacific Ocean experience similar climates but have different levels of deforestation. Island A has lost 80% of its original forest cover, while Island B has maintained 90% of its forest. Over the past decade, Island A has experienced more frequent and intense heat waves compared to Island B. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this difference?

Q.6

You are a farmer in a region with a temperate climate. You have been farming for over 20 years and have a good understanding of the growing cycles of your crops that have a narrow range of temperature tolerance. You have been keeping detailed records of your annual average temperature for the past decade. The graph below shows a clear trend in temperature change.
Based on your knowledge of agriculture and environmental science, which of the following is the most likely impact of the observed temperature increase on your crops?

A. Increased crop resilience and improved harvests.
B. Reduced yield and delayed harvest
C. Increased susceptibility to pests and diseases
D. Optimal conditions for crop pollination and seed germination.

Q.7

A community initiated a campaign to clean a polluted river. After a year, water quality improved, and fish species returned. What is the most likely reason for the return of aquatic life?

Q.8

In an experiment studying the effectiveness of marine protected areas, researchers compared fish populations inside and outside the protected zones. What result would indicate the success of marine protected areas in promoting fish populations?

Q.9

Consider the case study given below and answer the following question:

Case Study: The Green Guardians of Greenhill High

Greenhill High, a bustling school with over 1,000 students, faced a rising energy bill and growing concerns about its environmental impact. The principal and teachers knew they needed a change, and thus, the "Green Guardians" were born! This student-led initiative focused on three key areas: energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and well-insulation.

Appliance Upgrade: The Green Guardians convinced the school board to replace ageing appliances with ENERGY STAR certified models. New washing machines used cold water effectively, while newer dishwashers boasted shorter cycles and automatic shut-offs. These changes resulted in a 20% reduction in kitchen and laundry energy consumption.

Lighting the Way: Replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with LED lights was a game-changer. These LED bulbs lasted 25 times longer, used 80% less energy, and provided brighter, cooler light. Not only did the classrooms become more comfortable, but the school also saved 15% on its lighting costs.

Insulating for Impact: The Green Guardians knew that keeping the school warm in winter and cool in summer would significantly reduce energy use. They proposed adding insulation to the attic and walls, sealing air leaks, and upgrading windows. The results showed a 10% drop in heating and cooling energy needs, creating a more comfortable and sustainable learning environment.

The Green Guardians' efforts didn't stop there. They launched awareness campaigns, organised energy-saving competitions, and even convinced the cafeteria to source local, organic food. Their success story inspired other schools to join the green movement, proving that even small changes can make a big difference.

Imagine Greenhill High expands its sustainability efforts to include electric school buses. How might this decision impact the school's environmental footprint and local air quality?

Q.10

In a bid to minimise electronic waste, a tech company developed a device that allows consumers to upgrade their devices' internal components rather than replacing the entire unit. This initiative primarily addresses which principle of sustainable waste management?