International Green Warrior Olympiad Class 9 Sample Paper

Q.1

Consider the case study given below and answer the following question:
Case Study: Protecting the Coral Reefs of Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Location: Raja Ampat, a stunning archipelago in Indonesia famed for its thriving coral reefs, biodiversity, and diving tourism.
Challenges:
-Overfishing: Unsustainable fishing practices, including blast fishing and cyanide fishing, have depleted fish stocks and damaged coral reefs.
-Pollution: Plastic pollution, agricultural runoff, and sedimentation from coastal development all threaten the delicate marine ecosystem.
-Climate Change: Rising ocean temperatures and acidification are bleaching and killing coral, the foundation of the reef ecosystem.
Initiatives:
-Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Establishing and enforcing MPAs restricts harmful fishing practices and allows reefs to recover. Raja Ampat boasts one of the largest MPAs in Southeast Asia, covering over 1.5 million hectares.
-Community-Based Management: Local communities play a crucial role in protecting their reefs. The Coral Triangle Initiative focuses on empowering them through sustainable fishing practices and alternative livelihoods like ecotourism.
-Sustainable Aquaculture: Farming fish responsibly reduces pressure on wild stocks and provides alternative income for fishermen. Locally managed fish farms in Raja Ampat demonstrate successful alternatives to overfishing.
-Coral Restoration: Innovative techniques like coral nurseries and transplantation help regenerate damaged reefs and restore marine biodiversity.
Outcomes:
-Fish stocks are rebounding: The Raja Ampat MPA has shown a significant increase in fish biomass within its boundaries, demonstrating the effectiveness of protected areas.
-Improved water quality: Reduced pollution and sedimentation contribute to healthier corals and a more vibrant marine environment.
-Empowered communities: Local involvement in conservation fosters environmental stewardship and provides sustainable economic opportunities.
Raja Ampat serves as a beacon of hope in marine conservation, demonstrating the effectiveness of community-driven, multi-pronged approaches to protecting life below water. By tackling overfishing, pollution, and climate change, we can safeguard the future of these vital ecosystems and the communities that depend on them
What is a long-term challenge that the case study implies requires continuous global support to ensure the success of marine conservation in Raja Ampat?

Q.2

Blair, an environmentally conscious consumer, is shopping for groceries at a local store. She notices a food product with an eco-label that states "Organic" on the packaging. Curious about its meaning, she checks the information available to understand the significance of the label.
In the context of eco-labelling, what does the presence of an "Organic" label on a food product signify based on Emily's observation?

Q.3

A major Himalayan glacier, a vital source of freshwater for millions downstream, is retreating at an alarming rate. Satellite imagery reveals a significant decrease in the glacier's mass over the past few years. Data also shows a connection between rising global temperatures and the accelerated melting of glaciers worldwide.
Considering the scenario, which of the following is the most likely consequence of the glacier's retreat for the communities downstream?

Q.4

You are an environmental scientist analysing water quality parameters from two different sources, Source A and Source B. These sources provide water to nearby ecosystems. Consider the following data table showing water quality parameters from two different sources. Based on this data, which of the statements is most likely true?
1. Higher nutrient levels in Source A suggest an increased likelihood of eutrophication.
2. Source B has higher Dissolved Oxygen and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) than Source A, implying better water quality for the nearby ecosystems.
3. Lower Dissolve Oxygen levels in Source A indicate the potential for oxygen depletion due to increased organic matter decomposition.
D. Hypoxic and alkaline conditions in Source B can lead to the formation of algal blooms.

Q.5

Which innovative water purification method uses a combination of biological processes involving microorganisms to break down organic matter and remove contaminants from wastewater?

Q.6

An individual is trying to reduce their carbon footprint through their diet. Which action would have the most significant impact on reducing carbon emissions?

Q.7

Consider the case study given below and answer the following question:
Case Study: Protecting the Coral Reefs of Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Location: Raja Ampat, a stunning archipelago in Indonesia famed for its thriving coral reefs, biodiversity, and diving tourism.
Challenges:
-Overfishing: Unsustainable fishing practices, including blast fishing and cyanide fishing, have depleted fish stocks and damaged coral reefs.
-Pollution: Plastic pollution, agricultural runoff, and sedimentation from coastal development all threaten the delicate marine ecosystem.
-Climate Change: Rising ocean temperatures and acidification are bleaching and killing coral, the foundation of the reef ecosystem.
Initiatives:
-Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Establishing and enforcing MPAs restricts harmful fishing practices and allows reefs to recover. Raja Ampat boasts one of the largest MPAs in Southeast Asia, covering over 1.5 million hectares.
-Community-Based Management: Local communities play a crucial role in protecting their reefs. The Coral Triangle Initiative focuses on empowering them through sustainable fishing practices and alternative livelihoods like ecotourism.
-Sustainable Aquaculture: Farming fish responsibly reduces pressure on wild stocks and provides alternative income for fishermen. Locally managed fish farms in Raja Ampat demonstrate successful alternatives to overfishing.
-Coral Restoration: Innovative techniques like coral nurseries and transplantation help regenerate damaged reefs and restore marine biodiversity.
Outcomes:
-Fish stocks are rebounding: The Raja Ampat MPA has shown a significant increase in fish biomass within its boundaries, demonstrating the effectiveness of protected areas.
-Improved water quality: Reduced pollution and sedimentation contribute to healthier corals and a more vibrant marine environment.
-Empowered communities: Local involvement in conservation fosters environmental stewardship and provides sustainable economic opportunities.
Raja Ampat serves as a beacon of hope in marine conservation, demonstrating the effectiveness of community-driven, multi-pronged approaches to protecting life below water. By tackling overfishing, pollution, and climate change, we can safeguard the future of these vital ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
A plastic net washes ashore on the Raja Ampat beach. Trace its potential journey through the marine ecosystem, describing the environmental and ecological consequences it could cause at each stage.
1. Entanglement for sea turtles, fish, and coral, leading to injuries and potential death.
2. Ingestion by marine life, mistaking it for food, causing blockages and internal damage.
3. Breakage into microplastics, accumulating in the food chain and harming higher predators.

Q.8

A family living in a region with abundant clean hydropower is considering replacing their ageing gas oven with a new electric model. However, they are concerned about the overall environmental impact of each option.
Analyse the following data table and choose the most likely outcome of switching to electric based on environmental considerations.

Q.9

You live in a small town nestled near a bustling city. Your town council is considering a proposal to expand the city limits, potentially encroaching on your rural area. You're concerned about the potential impact on air quality and sustainability. The data regarding the levels of particulate matter over last few years was graphed.
Based on the information provided in the graph below and your concerns about sustainability, which statement best reflects the potential consequences of urban expansion on your town and its surrounding environment?

Q.10

As an environmental scientist conducting water quality assessments for a local lake used for swimming and boating, you're tasked with monitoring various parameters to ensure the safety and health of individuals engaging in recreational activities.
In this scenario, which of the following parameters would be of concern?
1. Turbidity
2. pH
3. Faecal coliform bacteria