v.11 n.4 August

Climate Change: Possible impacts and Solutions

Abhijit Mitra and Ricardo Gobato 

Parana J. Sci. Educ., v.11, n.4, (1-11),  August 1, 2025.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.16476745

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as a multifaceted global crisis driven by both natural and anthropogenic forces. This comprehensive article delineates the underlying mechanisms, consequences, and few innovative potential mitigation pathways associated with climate change. This article highlights the contrasting dynamic nature of short-term weather with the relative stability of long-term climate. However, this stability is now being undermined by extensive human activities such as fossil fuel combustion, industrialization, and land-use change, all of which have led to a dramatic 30% increase in atmospheric CO₂ since the industrial era. This has elevated global temperatures by approximately 1°–2°F and intensified the greenhouse effect, marking a discernible shift toward global warming. Natural drivers such as Milankovitch cycles, volcanic eruptions, variations in solar output, and tectonic movements have also been discussed for their role in modulating the Earth’s climate over geological timescales. For example, changes in Earth's orbital characteristics influence glacial-interglacial cycles, while major volcanic eruptions can cause temporary global cooling through the release of reflective aerosols. Additionally, long-term shifts in plate tectonics have historically influenced oceanic currents and continental positioning, thereby altering global climate patterns. Anthropogenic drivers, however, are of immediate concern. Key contributors include fossil fuel usage, deforestation, cement production, and livestock farming. The CO₂ concentration has already exceeded 380 ppm and is projected to surpass 560 ppm by 2100, which could result in a temperature rise between 1.4–5.6°C. Fossil fuel combustion remains the most significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, while livestock contributes notably to methane and nitrous oxide release, gases with much higher global warming potentials than CO₂. Land-use changes also modify regional climates by altering albedo and hydrological cycles. The cascading impacts of climate change are extensive. Rising sea levels, caused by thermal expansion and glacier melt, threaten coastal and deltaic regions with inundation. Changes in precipitation patterns disrupt agriculture, leading to food insecurity, particularly in vulnerable regions. Marine ecosystems face acidification and coral bleaching, while biodiversity loss, disease vector shifts, and increased frequency of extreme weather events further exacerbate the socio-economic burden. Populations in low-lying and economically disadvantaged areas are at heightene risk, often becoming environmental refugees due to habitat loss and declining natural capital. To mitigate these challenges, the study outlines eight strategic solutions, prioritized by their potential CO₂ offset. These include the adoption of renewable energy (up to 12 Gt/year CO₂ offset), afforestation (up to 10 Gt/year), climatesmart agriculture, and improvements in energy efficiency and transportation. Emerging solutions such as algal culture and reinforced policy and education frameworks are also critical, albeit with lower direct offset capacities. Together, these strategies underscore the need for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and globally coordinated response to climate change. This article presents an integrated view of the forces shaping climate dynamics and offers a science-based framework for addressing one of the most pressing issues of this era through both mitigation and adaptation.

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Carbon Credit System: A Roadmap to Retard the Pace of Emission

Dharmdeo Rai and Abhijit Mitra

Parana J. Sci. Educ., v.11, n.4, (12-24),  August 1, 2025.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.16477035

Abstract

In the present era of rising GHGs (Green House Gases) emissions, the carbon credit system has emerged as a vital market-based instrument to mitigate emissions by assigning monetary value to the act of polluting, thereby incentivizing low-carbon practices across sectors. Originating from the Kyoto Protocol and further institutionalized under the Paris Agreement, carbon credits operate through compliance and voluntary markets, offering a platform where emission reductions achieved via renewable energy, afforestation, methane capture, and soil carbon enhancement can be traded to meet climate targets. The mechanism plays a pivotal role in aligning climate policy with economic development, enabling countries and corporations to pursue net-zero pathways while investing in sustainable development. The Indian landscape is witnessing a paradigm shift through the establishment of the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) and the Green Credit Programme (GCP), which collectively promote afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and energy efficiency. Additionally, India’s emphasis on Nature-Based Solutions (NbS), including mangrove restoration and agroforestry, aligns with its commitment to create a 2.5–3.0 billion tonne carbon sink by 2030. Despite its promise, the carbon credit system faces challenges including greenwashing, concerns over additionality, permanence, and leakage. To counter these, global initiatives such as the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market and technological innovations in Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) are enhancing credibility and transparency. Coastal communities, particularly in the domain of blue carbon ecosystems, stand to benefit significantly through carbon credit-linked eco-enterprises. These initiatives provide co-benefits including food security, livelihood diversification, disaster risk reduction, and social empowerment. By integrating local knowledge, gender inclusion, and participatory governance, carbon projects can transform marginalized communities into climate custodians. Internationally, carbon credits are increasingly integrated into national Emissions Trading System (ETS) and bilateral trading under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, unlocking new dimensions in climate diplomacy and finance. However, the success of this system hinges on equitable access, stringent validation standards, and robust stakeholder engagement. As the global economy pivots toward net-zero, carbon credits, if anchored in integrity, science, and justice can offer a promising pathway to bridge economic growth and environmental sustainability. From reforested highlands to mangrove-rich deltas, carbon credits not only represent tonnes of avoided CO₂ but also embody resilience, equity, and a redefined climate future.

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A Common Fixed Point Theorem For Generalized Contraction Pair of Sefmaps In B-Metric Spaces

Alemayehu Negash, Abebaw Ayalew and Meaza Bogale

Parana J. Sci. Educ., v.11, n.4, (25-32),  August 1, 2025.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.16477732

Abstract

This paper establishes a common fixed point theorem for a pair of self-maps satisfying a generalized contraction condition in the framework of b-metric spaces. Unlike traditional metric spaces, b-metric spaces allow a relaxation of the triangle inequality, enabling the study of a broader class of spaces such as ℓ 𝑞 and 𝑀 𝑞 [0,1] for 0 < 𝑞 < 1 . Motivated by recent developments in fixed point theory, particularly those involving generalized Ciric-type contractions, we introduce a novel contraction criterion and investigate the existence and uniqueness of common fixed points under this setting. The analytical techniques adopted for the successful completion of this study are based on the methods of Sarwar and Rahman, and Roshan et al. Our results extend and unify several existing fixed point theorems in the literature, offering new insights into the structure of mappings in generalized metric-type spaces. Examples are provided to demonstrate the applicability of the main theorem.

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Simbolismos de desenhos sobre o corpo humano (Estudo de Caso)

Amauri Betini Bartoszeck and Larissa Artemia Dal Bosco

Parana J. Sci. Educ., v.11, n.4, (33-41),  August 1, 2025.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.16477470

Abstract

Thirty-one drawings were collected from male and female students of the Undergraduate Drawing Program (School of Music and Fine Arts of Paraná, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná), along with statements explaining these drawings. Likewise, statements were collected from students of the Undergraduate Music Program (School of Music and Fine Arts of Paraná) who chose not to draw. The research subjects were enlightened laypeople with basic knowledge of biology. The aim was to interpret the symbolic expressions through concepts of analytical psychology. The drawings revealed archetypal symbols associated with the students' personal and collective lives.

Resumo

Foram coletados trinta e um desenhos de alunos do Curso de Graduação em Desenho (Escola de Música e Belas Artes do Paraná, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná), de ambos os sexos, e declarações explicando estes desenhos. Igualmente, foram coletadas declarações de alunos do Curso de Graduação em Música (Escola de Música e Belas Artes do Parana), que optaram por não fazer desenhos. Os sujeitos de pesquisa são leigos esclarecidos com conhecimentos básicos em Biologia. Buscou-se fazer interpretação das expressões simbólicas através de conceitos da psicologia analítica. Os desenhos mostraram símbolos arquetípicos, associados à vida pessoal e coletiva dos alunos.

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The drawings children draw after hearing the story of the bee (Apis africana). (Case Study)

Amauri Betini Bartoszeck and Sue Dale Tunnicliffe

Parana J. Sci. Educ., v.11, n.4, (42-48),  August 1, 2025.

DOI:  10.5281/zenodo.16534037

Abstract

Thirty-three spontaneous drawings were collected from pupils enrolled in a pre-school at the city of Curitiba, Parana State, Brazil after the researcher turned and shown the pages of a booklet telling the story of the bee. Later the drawings were analyzed considering sex of pupils, morphological structure of the bee, mention of a beehive, plants Sun and if the pupil Drew himself at the scene. The pupils by means of their drawings have shown a basic knowledge what is a bee and how it lives in the environment.

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English Language and Science

Jeremy Dunning-Davies

Parana J. Sci. Educ., v.11, n.4, (43-47),  August 1, 2025.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.16477271

Abstract

Here attention is drawn to possible problems arising from an inaccurate use of the English language in science. It is noted that such misuse may lead to incorrect public understanding of some common notions in science today. To illustrate this two examples will be discussed; one relating to the use of the word ‘renewable’ when discussing energy sources in the context of climate change and the other the use of the term ‘speed of light’which occurs so often in so many popular discussions as an almost blanket term. The second of these leads, almost inevitably, to some comments relating to black holes.

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Transformadores Elétricos (Mini-revisão)

Vladimir Nikolaevich Sukhanov

Parana J. Sci. Educ., v.11, n.4, (48-53),  August 1, 2025.

DOI:  10.5281/zenodo.16537929

Abstract

The sequence of the appearance of a new transformer is described, in which the materials that make up the transformer are used in a complex way. One material both for the manufacture of magnetic cores and electrical windings of the transformer. At the same time, we not only refuse to use copper and switch to the use of iron, but we can also relatively easily assemble such transformers, which, moreover, will be lighter than traditional ones.

Resumo

Descreve-se a sequência de surgimento de um novo transformador, no qual os materiais que o compõem são utilizados de forma complexa. Um único material é utilizado tanto para a fabricação dos núcleos magnéticos quanto para a fabricação dos enrolamentos elétricos do transformador. Ao mesmo tempo, não apenas abandonamos o cobre e passamos a usar ferro, como também podemos montar esses transformadores com relativa facilidade, que, além disso, são mais leves do que os tradicionais. 

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Unlocking the Hidden Value of Fruit Wastes

Nabonita Pal and Abhijit Mitra

Parana J. Sci. Educ., v.11, n.4, (54-63),  August 1, 2025.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.16683380

Abstract

The present article highlights innovative strategies for transforming fruit by-products into valuable resources, fostering a circular economy while reducing environmental impact. Fruits, with their diverse nutritional and economic value, generate vast amounts of waste, including peels, seeds, pulp, and cores, during processing. Traditionally discarded or used as low-value animal feed, these by-products are now being reimagined through advancements in food technology, biotechnology, and sustainable manufacturing. By converting fruit waste into high-value products such as bio-fuels, cosmetics, biodegradable packaging, health supplements, and textiles, industries are addressing critical environmental challenges while creating economic opportunities. Globally, the fruit processing sector produces millions of tonnes of organic waste annually. Examples of successful waste valorisation include mango seed butter, which is used in natural skincare products due to its moisturizing and antioxidant properties; citrus peel essential oils, which serve as natural cleaning agents, perfumes, and therapeutic oils; and apple pomace flour, which is rich in fiber and antioxidants, making it ideal for gluten-free and health-focused food products. Similarly, pineapple peels are utilized in eco-friendly soap production, while banana fibres are repurposed into sustainable textiles like Abaca, renowned for its durability and biodegradability. Beyond food and personal care, fruit waste is increasingly contributing to the bio-energy and bio-materials sectors. Grape pomace is converted into biochar or bio-fuels, while avocado pits in Mexico are being innovatively transformed into biodegradable cutlery, providing a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics. Moreover, pomegranate peels are processed into natural dyes and antioxidant-rich extracts for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. These initiatives not only minimize landfill waste but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with decomposing organic matter. Economically, fruit waste valorisation offers a multi-dimensional advantage. It lowers waste disposal costs for processing units, creates raw material for multiple industries, and generates employment opportunities, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Additionally, it aligns with consumer demand for natural, eco-friendly, and sustainable products, expanding global market potential. This paradigm shift demonstrates that fruit by-products, often considered waste, can be transformed into valuable commodities with wide-ranging applications in food, cosmetics, bio-energy, and fashion.

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