Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials ENVIRONMENT levised Edition SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY f "oK PUBLICATIONS Floor, 12" Main Road, Shanthi Colony, ‘Anna Nagar, Chennai - 600 040, Tamilnadu. Contact: 99620 02006Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials ENVIRONMENT Revised Edition SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY BOOK PUBLICATIONS /AP-2241, 2° Floor, 12° Main Road, Anna Nagar, Chennal - 600 040. Tamil Nadu. Mobile 9962002006, www shankariasecademy.com. Email: nqulry@shankarissinJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY Re0° ENVIRONMENT e SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY BOOK PUBLICATIONS 1 Edltion - 2012 2 Edition - 20:3 3**Baition - 2014 3° Edition Reprint - February, 2015 4° Revised Flition -June, 2015, ‘4° Revised Rdition Reprint -Januazy, 2016 «4° Revised Edition Reprint - May, 2016 5 Revised Edition - June, 2017 6" Revised Edition - September, 2018 ISBN -972-81-934226-0-1 Pages :400 (now + 384) MRP: Rs. 400/- PUBLISHED BY SHANKAR IRS RCADEMY BOOK PUBLICATIONS AP-2241, 2 Foor, 12° Main Road, ‘Anna Neger, Chenrsi~600 040. Teil Nadu. Mobile 9962002008 www shankariasacedemy.com Email: enquiy/@shankaria.in © Copyright is reserved to the publdher, therefore the person who will ry to intimate or to print ‘oF without the prior written permission of this publisher in any form, will be re Punished for compensation under the copyright BeesteGn ins ants EET Te ay any mR odhttp//tme/UPSCMaterials 7 0° 82) ENVIRONMENT! “Barth provides enough to sais exer mans noe bt nt every ts red” ‘Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi NVR Ree No pref her nay be eral a ee by an ees Wit prec ow aJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY Qe. gam ENVIRONMENT “Thi page eft be BlankJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY Mu. CONTENTS 2% Previous Year UPSC Question paper analysis (2011 to 2018) .. PART-1 ENVIRONMENTAL ECOLOGY Environment and its Component: Levels of Organisation 2. FUNCTIONS OF AN ECOSYSTEM enw Energy Flow Food Chain Food Web cologkal Pyramid. Pollutants and Tropics! Level Biotic Interaction . ‘Bio-Geochemical Cycle Ecological Succession . een ee beeened wee eaae Harmful Algal bloom. ‘Wetland Ecosystem. ‘National Wetland Conservati NNSA nr a ey aaJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS RCRDEMY Qe 0°63 G0. ENVIRONMENT Montreux Record. Estuary Ecosystem Initiatives to Protect Coastal Environment Ganga Action Pam nn Namami Ganga Program 5 5 3 36 7 58 60 61 san 65, 66 wn 6 69 mn TB 4 6 Environmental Pollution a 77 78 6 International Solar Alliance Lauminescent Solar Concentrators... Wind Energy _ Hydro Power. Spe erm ney Cogeneration Waste to Energy.. Geothermal Energy. Fuel Cells, Pee 7 ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES.. Indian Himalayan Region . Sand Mining in loa, Palm Oil - Environmental Issues, Colony Collapse Disorder... c= ‘gs aes i ny eaoay a Wy wm PONTO SOJoin Our Telegram Channel htp/tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS‘ACROEMY Bs G ‘Wildlife Deaths Due to Collision With Trains mpact of Radiation Genetically Engineered Trees... ‘MoBRCC Banned Dolphin Captivity. Prohibition of Removal of Shark Fins in the Sea... Cost of Environmental Degradation in India . 8, ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT .. “The Need for BIA. PART-II Fauna Diversity. Flora Diversity. Indian Wildlife snnnne ence ISOS aS 11, SCHEDULE ANIMALS OF WPA, 1972... Schedule List - WPA. von 12, ANIMAL DIVERSITY OF INDIA .nnnsnnnnusre Mammal Critically endangered, Marine Mammals... Egg Laying Mammals. _Arfas Rosa No prt of atrial iy be pode fo yay eats bout permission owenPlant Classification... [Effect of Abiotic Components on Plants. Insectivorous PAD mennnnrnennnrn Invasive Alien Species... Invasive Alien Flora of India. ‘Medicinal Plants. ‘Tree Characters, MARINE ORGANISM Plankton. Phyto-Plankton, Zo0-Plankton. Sen Grass. Sea Weed. + PROTECTED AREA NETWORK..... National initiative Wildlife Sanctuary and Natlonal Parks. Conservation Reserves.and Community Reserves Coastal Protected Areas. Sacted Groves of India... Export Prohibited Items. Global initiative ‘Man And Biosphere. Biosphere Reserves ‘National Biosphere Reserve Programme. World Network of Biosphere Reserves Biodiversity Hotspots. - ‘World Heritage Sites ‘CONSERVATION EFFORTS, Project Tiger. Project Elephant Vulture... One Horned Rhi ‘AURIgha Ree pat of tly eee ny fr by yee wh perio aw,‘Ageiculture and Food Security. ‘Water Stress and Water Insecurity 22, INDIA AND CLIMATE CHANGE vansene India’s Position on Climate Change ‘Observed Climate and Weather Changes ‘Current Actions for Adaptation and Mitigation . [National Action Plan on Climate Change... ‘Nonigin Rowra No prt of is aril yb eet nay fy any rea, wit ein I wringIndian Network on Climate Change Assessment National Communication (NATCOM). India's Policy Structure Relevant to GHG Mitigation, Green Building Long Term Ecological Observatories (LTEO) ‘he National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC).. (Other Critical Entities a 23, CLIMATE CHANGE ORGANISATIONS. UNFCCC. : KYOTO Protocal an. Conference of Parties, Other Mechanism of UNFCCC. REDD and REDD+ Global Environment Facilities Climate Smart Agriculture .. Inter Governmental Panel on Climate Change, ‘National Green House Gas Inventories Programme. Green Economy. Climate Finance Architecture, PART-IV AGRICULTURE Sustainable Agriculture, Organic Farming. Integrated Farming System, Soil Science, ‘Ris ere. No part oh nay edd nye: by ay mw prion WrRNEJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IAS RERDEMY Q@_ 0° gg Goo ENVIRONMENT PART-V 25, ACTS AND POLICIES .... Wild Life Protection Act 1972 Environmental Protection Act 1986 National Forest Policy 1988... Biological Diversity Act 2002. Schedule Tribes and Other Forest Dwellers Act 2006. Coastal Regulation Zone . Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016. ‘Nation Green Tribunal ‘The Ovone Depleting Substances RES nnn 26. INSTITUTION AND MEASURES «.neeseeestnensn National Wide Life Action Plan [ational Afforestation And Eco-Development Boa CAMPA ce Joint Forest Management Social Forestry ‘National Bamboo Mission .. CEPA. National Mission fr Blectrie Mobility Science Express Bio Diversity Special. Mangrove for Future 27, ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANISATIONS... ‘Animal Welfare Board Central Zoo Authority National Bio Diversity Authority Wilf Crime Control Bureas . National Lake Conservation Pla me National Ganga River Basin Authority 28, INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONVENTIONS. United Nations Conference on Environment and Development women Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) ‘aso tops cant pd ey Erne ie rang auJoin Our Telegram Channel hittp//tme/UPSCMaterials QOry ENVIRONMENT “The Willie Trade Monitoring Network (TRAFFIC)... ‘Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS)... Rotterdam Convention nited Nations Convention to Combat Desertification International Whaling Commission (IWC) ‘Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocal Kigali Agreement... Globally Important Agriculture Heritage Systems. Convention. Lstof Key Activities and Likely Asvocated Air Pollutants. Respiratory Irritant and Toe Chemical von cana SEESOD Em "AVR RecN uf hs aca nye epradvadin any rm orb aby ean won mln a wigJoin Our Telegram Channel SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY “ey Ds a>. PRELIMINARY 2° http//tme/UPSCMaterials ENVIRONMENT QW PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION PAPERS 2011 QUESTION PAPER ENVIRONMENTAL ECOLOGY & BIODIVERSITY 4. Consider the following statements: 1. Biodiversity is normally greater in the lower lati tudes as compared to the higher latitudes. +2, Along the mountain gradients, biodiversity is nor~ ‘mally greater in the lower altitudes as compared to the higher altitudes. ‘Which ofthe statements given above is/are correct? a.ronly b.2only Both t and 2 4 Neither » nor 2 ‘2. Three of the following criteria have contributed to the recognition of Western Ghats ~ Sri Lanka and Indo-Burma regions as hotspots of bio-diversity. Species richness Vegetation density Endemism Ethno-botenical importance ‘Threat perception Adaptation of flora and fauna to warm and humid conditions ‘Which three of the above are correct criteria in this ‘context? as 2and6 b. a,gand6 © u3ands 4d. 34and6 3 Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in ‘the following ways: 1. Soil formation 2. Prevention of sol erosion a 6 23. Recyeling of waste 4 Pollination of crops. Select the correct answer using the codes given below a izandgonly ——b, 2.3and4 only 1am only 4 sagand 4 Which one of the following is not a site for in-situ ‘method of conservation of flora? ‘a Biosphere Reserves ’, Botanical Garden «National Park 4, Wildlife Sanctuary ‘Among the following States, which one has the most ‘suitable climatic conditions for the cultivation of a large variety of orchids with minimum cost of pro- duction, and can develop an export oriented industry in this field? a, Andhra Pradesh Arunachal Pradesh c. Madhya Pradesh 4, Uttar Pradesh ‘A sandy and saline area isthe natural habitat of an {Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area butts existence is threatened due tothe destruction ofits habitat. Which one ofthe following. could be that animal? Indian wild buffalo >. Indian wild 25s Indian wild boar Indian Gazelle [Rng are bern epi rma by on wi tin WE, xiiJoin Our Telegram Channel ‘SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY 7 The“Red Data Books’ published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Re~ ‘sources (IUCN) contain lists of 1. Endemic plant and animal species present in the biodiversity hotspots. 22, Threatened plant and animal species. 3. Protected sites for conservation of nature &enatural resources in various countries, Which of the statement given above is / are correct? a 183 b. aonly 6 ak 4. 3only 8. In the context of eco-system productivity, marine ‘upwelling zones are important as they increase the ‘marine productivity by bringing the 1 Decomposer microorganisms to the surface. 2, Nutrients to the surface. {3 Botton-dwelling organisms to the surface. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a rand b. aonly © 2and3 4. gonly 9. The 2004 Tsunami made people realize that mar groves can serve as a reliable safety hedge against coastal calamities, How do mangroves function as a safety hedge? The mangroves swaps separate the human seetle- ‘ments from the ea by a wide zone in which people neither ive nor venture out , The mangroves provide both food and medicines ‘which people are in need of after any natural dis- aster The mangroves trees are tall with dense canopies and serve a an excellent shelter during a cyelone or tsunami 4. The mangroves trees do not get uprooted by storms and tides because oftheir extensive rts, 10. There is a concern over the increase in harmful algal blooms in the seawaters of India. What could be the causative factors for this Phenomenon? 1. Discharge of nutrients from the estwaties, 2. Run-off from the land during the monsoon, 3 Upwelling in the seas, QD 0° gD http//tme/UPSCMaterials ENVIRONMENT Select the correct answer from the codes given below: b. rand a only, sand, 1. The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diver~ sity. Which one among the following is the most appropriate reason for this phenomenon? 4, It has a high rainfall that supports luxuriant veg- tative growth, b, Iisa confluence of different bio geographical zones, «. Exotic and invasive species have not been intro- ‘duced in this region, 4. Ie has less human interference 32, Ifa tropical rain forest is removed, it does not re- generate quickly as compared to atropical deciduous, forest. This is because a. the sol of rain forest is deficient in nutrients ', propagules of the trees in a rain forest have poor viabilicy (the rain forest species are slow-growing 4, exotic species invade the fertile soil of rain forest. 83, When the bark of a tree is removed in a circular fashion all around near its base, it generally dries upand dies because a. Weter from sol cannot rise to aerial parts. b, Roots are starved of energy Tree is infected by soil microbes 4. Roots do not receive oxygen for respiration a. tonly ©. 2and 3 only 4 CLIMATE CHANGE 14, Consider the following: 1. Photosynthesis 2. Respiration 3: Decay of organic matter 4. Volcanic action Which ofthe above add carbon dioxide to the catbon eyele on Fart? a, rand gonly b. zand 3 only © agandgonly 1,2, 3andg 45. Consider the following: 1. Carbon dioxide 2, Oxides of Nitrogen Ce eeJoin Our Telegram Channel ‘SHANKAR IRS FICRDEMY 3. Owides of Sulphur ‘Which of the above is/are the emission / emissions from coal combustion at thermal power plants? a. ronly b 2and 3only c. wand 3 only a 16, The formation of ozone hole in the Antartic region ‘has been a cause of concern. What could be the rea- ‘son for the formation of this hole? ‘a. Presence of prominent tropospheric turbulence; and Inflow of chloroflaoro carbons >, Presence of prominent polar front and stratospheric clouds; and inilow of chloro fluorocarbons Absence of pola front and stratospheric clouds; and inflow of methane and chloro fluorocarbons, 4, Increased temperature at polar region due to global warming 17. Regarding “carbon credits’, which one of the follow- ing statements is not correct? ‘a The carbon credit system was ratified in conjune- tion with the Kyoto Protocol b, Carbon eredits are awarded to countries or groups that have reduced greenhouse gases below their emission quota ‘c. The goal of the carbon credit system is to linil the increase of carbon emission quota | Taga | Northern Europe, Asia and | The dominating vegetation is coniferous evergreen North America, Moderate | mostly spruce, with some pine and firs. temperature than tundra. Also | The fauna consists of bird, hawks, fur bearing ‘known as boreal forest. carnivores, litle mink, elks, puma, Siberian tiger, /woberine, wolves otc. 3 | Temperate Extends over Central and | The flora includes trecs like beech, oak, maple and Deciduous ‘Southern Europe, Fastern | cherry. Forest ‘North America, Western Most animals are the familiar vertebrates and |China, Japan, New Zealand etc, | invertebrates. Moderate average temperature | These are generally the most productive agricultural jand abundant rainfall, areas of the earth 4 [Tropical rain forest. | Tropical areas inthe equatorial | Tropical rainforest covers about 7% of the earth's regions, whichis abound with | surface & 40% of the work!’ plant and animal life. Temperature and rainfall | species. Multiple storey of broad-leafed evergreen high. tee species are in abundance. Mast animals and epiphytic plants are concentrated inthe canopy or tree top zones. s [Savannah Tropical region: Savannah is | Grasses with scattered trees and fire resisting thorny most extensive in Africa shrubs. The fauna include a great diversity of grazers and ‘browsers such as antelopes, buffaloes, zebras, clephants and rhinoceros; the carnivores inelude lion, cheetah, hyena; and mongoose, and many rodents. 6 [orasstana North America, Ukraine, etc. | Grasses dominate the vegetation, The fauna include ‘Temperate conditions with low | large herbivores like bison, antelope, cattle, rodents, rainfall prairie dog, wolves, and a tich and diverse array of ground nesting bird. 7 [Desert ‘Continental interiors with very | The flora is drought resistance such as cactus, low and sporadic rainfall with | euphorbias, sagebrush, Fauna: Reptiles, Small tow humidity. The days are | Mammals and birds. very hot but nights ae cold. =D ‘eco pf ma A omy ym pn oneJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials BNO cz SGiirwienninsmcrbeny GO.) (07) ENVIRONMENT Aquatic Zones sane oyrsare ct il oes, owe hy edie in tin nes, with regan fee inet plant and animal life. The major differences between the various aquatic zones are du to salinity, levels of dissolved nutrients, water temperature, depth of sunlight penetration. ‘SINo | Aquatic ecosystem Characteristics +. [Fresh Water Ecosystem | Fresh water ecosystem are classified as lotic (moving water) or lentic (til or stagnant water). Lotc water system includes freshwater streams, springs, rivulets, reeks, books, and rivers. Lentic water bodies include pools, ponds, ‘some swamps, bogs and lakes. They vary considerably in physical, chemical and biological characteristics. 2 | Marine Ecosystem ‘Nearly three ~ quarter of earth's surface is covered by ocean with an average depth of 3750 mm and with salinity 35 ppt, (parts per thousand), about 90 per cent of which is sodium chloride. 3 [Estuaries Coastal bays, river mouths and tidal marshes form the estuaries, In estuaries, fresh water from rivers meet ocean water and the two are mixed by action of tides. Estuaries are highly productive as compared to the adjacent rivet or se. 4. | Coral reef ‘Mangrove, 1336, Biosphere Biosphere is absent at extremes of the North and South sphere isa part ofthe earth wher life can exist. Bio- Pols the highest mountains and he deepest Ovens Se Bectrepresnts aight negated and imeracting one ig stile condition there do nat suport Hi, 08, carorcing of atmogpere (i), hydrosphere vate) and catoally pores of fungi and bacteria do occ Tithosphere (land), hncight beyond 8,000 metres, bu they are not metabolically active, and hence represent only dormant ie. "The energy require forthe life within the biosphere comes from the eun, The nutrients necessary for living organisms ‘come from air, water and soil, The same chemicals are recycled over and over again for life to continue. Living organisms are not uniformly distributed throughout the biosphere. Only afew organisms lvein the polar regions, ‘while the topical rain forests have an exceedingly rch di- \ersity of plans and animals (50% of Global Biodiversty. Do you know? Environmental Information System (ENVIS), a Cen- tral Sector Scheme of the Ministry has been imple- ‘mented since 1982. The purpose of the scheme is t0 Integrane country-wide efforts in enviconmental in- formation cllection collation, storags retrieval and Se ee ckiacdaape tone ral me ‘would be as thick a its skin ceo Ikis narrow layer around the surface ofthe earth. If we “Life inthe biosphere is abundant between 200 metres (660, feet) below the surface of the ocean and about 6,000 me- tres (20,000 feet) above sea level SEeeoe Sm op TR alJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials (SHR SiRERGENY 7G). 0° 5 ENVIRONMENT! ‘This page eft tobe Bank ED “saa iat begun om ey oe TES‘complete dynamic system. Itcan be studied under the following three heads. Brergy flow © Nutrient cycling (biogeochemical cycles) ‘Ecological succession or ecosystem development T: function of an ecosystem is a broad, vast and 2.1 ENERGY FLOW. Energy isthe basic force responsible for all metabolic ac- tivities, The flow of energy from producer to top consum- ers is called energy flow which Is unidirectional. “The study of Trophic level interaction in an ecosystem gives ‘an ia about the energy flow through the ecosystem. 2.14, Trophic level interaction ‘Trophic level interaction deals with how the members of an ecosystem are connected based on nutritianal needs. “Trophic levels (Trophe = nourishment) T [Astotrephs | Green plants (producers) 11 |Heterocrophs | Herbivore {primary consumers) ut | Heterotrophs | Carnivores (Gecondary consumers) 1 | Heterotrophs. | Camivore (ertiary consumers) v_ | Heterosrophs | Top carnivores (Quarternary consumers) "Energy flows through thie trophic levels: from producers tosubequent trophic levels ‘This energy always flows from lower (producer) to higher (herbivore, carnivore etc) ‘trophic level. never flows in the reverse direction that is froma carnivores to herbivores to producers. “There isa loss of some energy in the form of unusable beat at each trophic level so that energy level decreases from the first trophic level upwards. ‘Asa result there axe usually four or five trophic levels and seldom more than six as beyond that very litte energy is Jeft to support any organism, Trophic levels ate numbered according to the steps an organism is away from the source ‘of food or energy, that is the producer. ‘The trophic level interaction involves three concepts namely 1. Pood Chain 2. Food Web 3. Ecological Pyramids 2,2. FOOD CHAIN Organisms in the ecosystem are related to each other through feeding mechanism or trophic levels, ie. one or ‘gzanism becomes food for the other, A sequence of organ- isms that feed on one another, form a food chain. & food chain starts with producers and ends with top carnivores. ‘Do you know? ‘Bear hibernation is diffrent than most hibernating animals. True hibernation like we seein ground squir~ rel) involves a drastic drop in body temperature but the hibernating animal will awaken occasionally to eat and defecate before resuming hibernation. When a bear “hibernates’ it is really in a deep sleep. I'> body tem peracute drops but not drastically andit doesnot Wake ‘up. The one exception is that a mother bear will wake tp to give birth in January or February. Since food is scarce in the winter bears figure that if you cantt eit ‘you might as well sleep, Bears like the Asiatic Bearive in warmer climates where food is readily available all ‘year long and there is no need to hibernate. “Artin nse Rr il si wy eed in oe By any sw Penn wegdoo The sequence of eaten anc being eaten, produces transfer of food energy and itis known as food chain. ‘The plant converts solar energy into chemical energy by Photosynthesis. ‘Small herbivores consume the plant matter and convert them into animal matter. These herbivores are eaten by large carnivores 2.2.. Types of Food Chains In nature, two main types of food chains have bean distin= suished: 1) Grazing food chain ‘The consumers which start the food chain, utilising the plant or plant part as their food, constitute the grazing food chain. This food chain begins from green plants at the base and the primary consumer is herbivore. Grazing Food Chain For example, in teresrial ecosystem, grass is caten up by caterpillar, which is eaten by izard and lizard is eaten by snake, {In Aquatic ecosystem phytoplanktons (primary producers) is eaten by zoo planktons which is eaten by fishes and {fishes are eaten by pelicans. ii) Detritus food chain It stars from dead organic matter of decaying animals and ene http//tme/UPSCMaterials °° 9 SO) ENVIRONMEN este ety eeenlioeion to detritus feeding organism called detrivoses or decom= ‘Poser and to other predators [Gite tations =p Chicken > Hawk] Detritus food chain ‘The distinction between these two food chains is the source of energy for the first level consumers. In the graz~ #6 food chain the primary source of energy's living plant biomass while in the detritus food chain the source of ‘energy is dead organic matter or detritus. The two food chains are linked. The initial energy source for detritus, food chain isthe waste materials and dead organic matter from the grazing food chain, 2.3. FOOD WEB, ‘food chain represents only one partf he foal or eneray flow through an ecosystem and imps a simple isolated ‘lationship, whch Seldom occurs in the ecosystems, ‘An ecosystem thay consist of several interrelated food chains. More typically, the same food resource is part of ‘ore than one chain, especially when that resource is at the lower trophic levels. “food web illustrates, all possible transfers of energy and ‘utrients among the organisms in an ecosystem, whereas 4 food chain traces only one patina of the fo If any ofthe intermediate food chain is removed, the suc ceeding links ofthe chain willbe affected largely. The food ‘web provides more than one alternative for food to mast of the organisms in an ecosystem and therefore increases their chance of survival For example, grasses may serve food for rabbie or gyass- hopper or goat or cow. Similarly a herbivore may be food source for many carnivorous species, ‘Rh Reser art esol way be eran ayaa ry ay mean hak prion owJoin Our Telegram Channel SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY [Also food availability and preferences of food ofthe organ- isms may shift seasonally eg, we eat watermelon in sur- mer and peaches in the winter. ‘Thus there are interconnected networks of feeding relationships that take the farm of food webs. Do you know? Dolphins, Porpoises and whales are called cetaceans, ‘A cetacean is a creature belonging to a group of water living mammals that have no hind ins and a blow- hale for breathing, They are not fish! http//tme/UPSCMaterials 2.4, ECOLOGICAL PYRAMIDS The steps of trophic levels expressed in a diagrammatic ‘way are referred as ecological pyramids. The food producer {forms the base ofthe pyramid and the top carnivore forms the tip, Other consumer trophic levels are in between. ‘The pyramid consists of a number of horizontal bars de- picting specific trophic levels which are arranged sequen tially from primary producer level through herbivore, carnivore onwards, The length of each bar represents the total number of individuals at each trophic level in an eco. system, ‘The number, biomass and energy of organisms gradually decrease with each step from the producer level to the, consumer level and the diagrammatic representation as- ssumes a pyramid shape. “The ecological pyramids are of three categories, 1. Pyramid of numbers, 2. Pyramid of biomass, and 3. Pyramid of energy or productivity, 2.4. Pyramid of Numbers “This deals with the relationship between the numbers of primary producers and consumers of different levels. Itis ‘a graphic representation of the total numberof individuals of differenc species, belonging to ench trophie level in an ecosystem. Depending upon the size and biomass, the pyramid of numbers may not always be upright, and may even be completely inverted. (@ Pyramid of numbers - upright ‘In this pyramid, the numberof individuals is decreased from lower level to higher trophic level ‘© ‘This type of pyramid can be seen in grassland eco- system. ‘+ The grasses occupy the lowest trophic level (base) be- cause of their abundance. ‘+ The next higher trophic level. is primary consumer ~ herbivore (example ~ grasshopper). The individual number of grasshopper is ess than that cof grass, The next energy level is primary carnivore (example - rat). ‘© The number of rats are less than grasshopper, because, they feed on grasshopper. The next higher trophic level 4s secondary carnivore (example ~ snakes). They feed fon rats. The next higher trophic level isthe top carnivore. (Ex. Hawio. ‘+ With each higher trophic level, the numberof individual decreases. (b) Pyramid of numbers - inverted Inverted Pyramid of Number: Ries nov Toro isan yb ane nany nae by any mew pron a Wie‘+ In this pyramid, the numberof individuals is increased from lower lev! to higher trophic level ‘© Acountina forest would have a small numberof large producers, for eg. few number of big tres. ‘This is because the tree (primary producer) being few ‘in number and would represent the base of the pyramid ‘and the dependent herbivores (Example - Birds) in the ‘ext higher trophic level and itis followed by parasites in the next trophic level. Hyper parasites being at higher tzophic level represents higher in number, ‘+ And the resulting pyramid isin inverted shape. A pyra- ‘mid of numbers does not tale into account the fact that the size of organisms being counted in each trophic level canvary. © tis very diffcut to count all the organisms, in a pyra- ‘mid of numbers and so the pyramid of number does nat ‘completely define the trophic structure for an ecosystem 2.4.2. Pyramid of Biomass In order to overcome the shortcomings of pyramid of num= bers, the pyramid of biomass is used. In this approach individuals in each trophic level are weighed instead of being counted. This gives us a pyrarald of biomass, ie, the total dry weight of all organisms at each trophic level ata particular time. Pyramid of biomass is usvally determined by collecting all organisms occupying each trophic level separately and ‘measuring their dry weight. This overcomes the size dif {erence problem because all kinds of organisms at a trophic level are weighed. Biomass is measured in g/m. @) Upward pyramid Upright Pyramid of Biomass For most ecosystems on land, the pyramid of biomass has a large base of primary producers with a smaller trophic level perched on top. ‘The biomass of producers (autotrophs) is a the maximum, ‘The biomass of next trophic level ie primary consumers is less than the producers, The biomass of next higher trophic level ie secondary consumers is less than the primary consumers. The top, high trophic level has very less amount of biomass. (b) Inverted pyramid {In contrast, io many aquatic ecosystems, the pyramid of ‘biomass may assume an inverted form, Inverted Pyramid in an Aquatic Ecosystem ‘This is because the producers are tiny phytoplanktons that {grow and reproduce rapidly. Here, the pyramid of biomass has a small base, with the consumer blomass at any instant actually exceeding the producer biomass and the pyramid assumes inverted shape. 2.43. Pyramid of Energy ‘To compare the functional roles ofthe trophic levels in an ‘ecosystem, an energy pyramid is most sutable, An energy pyramid, reflects the laws of thermodynamics, with con- version of solar energy to chemical energy and heat energy ateach trophic level and with loss of energy being depicted at each transfer to another trophic level. Hence the pyr mid is always upward, with a large energy base at the bottom. Let us explain this with an example. Suppose an ecosys- tem receives 1000 calories of light energy in a given day. ‘Most of the energy is not absorbed; some is reflected back to space; of the energy absorbed only a small portion is ‘ARIE Rese. Mo arto hi aera may epee any em ob nan wt prin wingDo you know? All snakes smell with their tongues. When a snake sticks out its tongue it smells its surroundings. The moist tongue ‘collects scents and small organisms from whatever it touches and from the ait around jt, When the tongue goes back | {ge the mouth tie forks touch a special sensory spot called the Jacobson's organ on the roof of the mouth and tells. the snake what it smells. Snakes have a small notch in their lips that they can stick their tongues through so they don't need to open their mouths. Somne snakes can smell with their noses, utilised by green plants, out of which the plant uses up some for respiration and of the 1000 calories, therefore ‘only 100 calories are stored as energy tich materials. [Now euppose an animal, say a deer, eats the plant contain- {ng 100 cal of food energy. The deer uses some of it for its ‘own metabolism and stores only 20 cal as food energy. A lion that eats the deer gets an even smaller amount of ‘energy. Thus usable energy decreases from sunlight to producer to herbivore to carnivore. Therefore, the enerey pyramid will aways be upright. Energy pyramid concept helps to explain the phenorenon ‘of biological magnification-the tendency for toxic sub- stances to increase in concentration progressively at higher levels f the food chain, 2.5 POLLUTANTS AND TROPHIC LEVEL Pollutants especially pondegradable ones move through the ‘various trophic levels in an ecosystem Nondegradable pollutants mean materials, which cannot be metabolized by the living organisms, Example: chlorinated hydrocarbons. We are concerned about these phenomena because, 10- ‘gether they enable even small concentrations of chemicals in the environment to find their way into organisms in high enowgh dosages to cause problems. ‘Movement ofthese pollutants involves two main processes: ') Bioaccumulation 4) Biomagnification. 2.5.1. Bioaccumulation ‘+ Ttrefers to how pollutants enter a food chain. ‘© Inbicaccumulation there is an increase in concentration ‘of a pollutant from the environment tothe frst organ- {sm ina food chain. 125.2, Biomagnification Fiaveaige Bi “a ‘Magnification of Concentratiot 000 100,000 Biomagnification ADRs Roel "a oral yb prod io any or yay ea wot perio in wgJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials einwaminsrenceny 8) ENVIRONMENT. + Biomagnification refers tothe tendency of pollutants to concentrate as they move from one trophic level to the next. + ‘Thus in biomagnitiation there is an increase in eon centration ofa polutant from one linkin a food chain to another. In order for biomagnification to occu, the pollutant must be: lng tved, mobil, soluble in ats, biologically active. fa pollutant is short-lived, it will be broken down before ‘can become dangerous, Ifitis not mobile, twill stay in ‘one place and is unlikely to be taken up by organisms, If the pollutant is soluble in water, it wil be excreted by the ‘organism, Poliatants that disscve in fats, however, may be retained for along time It fs traditional to measuse the amount of pollutants in fatty tissues of organisms such as fsb. In mammals, we ‘often tet the milk produced by females, since the mill has ‘lot of fat in tare often more susceptible to damage frm toxins (poisons). IFa pollutant is ot active biologically, it ‘may biomagnity, but we rally don't worry about it much, since it probably won't couse any problems Examples: DDT. 2.6, BIOTIC INTERACTION ‘+ Organisms living in this earth are interlinked to each ‘other in one way or other. The interaction between the ‘organisms is fundamental for its survival and function- ing of ecosystem as a whole. Biotic Interaction SNe [pe Spices 1 | Species 4 Mutualism eo o a Commensalism a (O] 2B Amensalism © o | Competition o ot 5. Predation oO a 6. Parasitism oo oa (7) Benefited ©) Harned (0) Neither Reneited nor harmed. 2.6.1. Types of biotic interaction ‘+ Mutualism: both species benefit. ‘Example: in pollination mutualisms, the pollinator gets food (pollen, nectar) and the plant has its pollen trans- ferred to other flowers for cross-ertilization (repro- duction), = Commensalism: one species benefits, the other is unaf- fected, Example: cow dung provides food and shelter to dung, Destles. The beetles have no effect on the cows. + Competition: both species are harmed by the in- teraction. ‘Example: if two species eat the same food, and there {ntt enough for both, both may have acces to less food than they would if alone. They both suffer a shortage of food ‘+ Predation and parasitism: one species benefits, the other is harmed ‘Example: predation—one fish kills and eats parasitism: tick gains benefit by sucking blood; host is harmed by losing blood. ‘+ Amensalism: One species is harmed, the other is un- affected, Example: A large tree shades a small plant, retarding the growth ofthe small plant. The small plant has no «effect on the large tree. ‘© Neutralism: There is no net benefit or harm to either species. Perhaps in some interspecific interactions, the ‘costs and benefits experienced by each partner are ‘exactly the same so that they sum to zero. It is not ‘lear how often this happens in nature. Neutralism is ‘also sometimes described as the relationship between two species inhabiting the same space and using the ‘same resources, but that have no effect on each other. mn this case, one could argue that they aren't interact- ing at al. 2.7, BIO-GEO-CHEMICAL CYCLE ‘The living world depends upon the energy flow and the nutrients circulation that occurs through ecosystem. Both influence the abundance of organisms, the meta- bolic rate at which they live, and the complexity of the ‘ecosystem. Energy flows through ecosystems enabling the organisms to perform various kinds of work and this energy is vlti- ‘mately lost as heat forever in terms of the usefulness of the system. On the other hand, nutrients of food matter never get used up. They ean be recycled again and again indefinitely. Fores, when we breathe we may be inhaling several mil- lion atoms of elements that may have been inhaled by our ancestors or other organisms. ‘Agi eve No pt i wate ye eroding WDA Peon WE‘Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and phosphorus as elements and compounds make up 97% of the mass of our bodies and are more than 95% of the mass of all living ‘organisms, In addition to these about 15 to 25 other ele~ ‘ments are needed in come form forthe survival and good health of plants and animals. “These elements or mineral nutrients are always in cir- culation moving from non-living to living and then back: tothe non-living components ofthe ecosystem in a more or less circular fashion. This circular fashion is known as biogeochemical cycling (bio for living; geo for atmos- phere). ‘27a, Nutrient Cycling ‘The nutrient cycle isa concept that describes how nutrients move from the physical environment to the living organ Isms, and subsequently recycled back to the physical envi- ronment. ‘This movement of autzients from the environment into plants and animals and again back tothe environment is ‘essential for life and it is the vital function of the ecology ‘of any region. In any particular environment, to maintain its organism in a sustained manner, the nutrient cycle must be kept balanced and stable. ‘Nutrient cycling Is typically studied in terms of specific nutrients, with each nutrient in an environment having its own particular pattern of cycling. Among the most important nutrient cycles are the carbon autrient cycle ‘and the nitrogen nutrient cycle. Both of these cycles make ‘upan essential part of the overall sol nutrient cycle. There are many other nutrient cycles that are important in ecol- gy, including a large number of trace mineral nutrient cydles. rows cession, while change brought about by outside forees is, ‘known as allogenic succession. 2.83. Autotrophic and Heterotrophic succession Succession in which, initially the green plants are much greater is quantity is known as autotrophic succession; and the onesia which the heterotrophs are greater in quantity is known as heterotrophic succession, succession would occur faster in area existing in the mid dle ofthe large continent. This is because, here all prop- agules or seeds of plants belonging to the different seres ‘would reach much faster, establish and ultimately resuktin climax community. SESE OS ‘Nini Reser p fis ri ny te eprofared yo oy ay enn we prin ewanJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials | Sarcer ins ReDENY TG, ° 3 G25 ENVIRONMENT | ‘Th page oft tobe bank, Emp ‘AN Ris sere No part this mt may be ered fay rm by any me with eo i wgJoin Our Telegram Channel SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY TERRESTRIAL ECOS he interrelations between organisms and environs ment on the land constitute “Terrestrial Ecology”. ‘Due t variation in the topographic features of val leys, mountains and slopes, certain differences occur. ‘These differences are reflected in both the material and biotic diversities. Altitudinal and latitudinal variations cause shifts and differences in the climatic patterns. Due to vatied climate, the plant and animal life existing in dif- ferent terrestrial areas vary which result in differentiation ‘of ecosystem as segments within the large biosphere. The ‘most important limiting factors of the terestrial ecosys- tems are moisture and temperature. 3, TUNDRA, ‘Tundra means a “barren land” since they are found where ‘environmental conditions are very severe. There are two types of tundra asctic and alpine © Distribution: Arctic tundra extends asa continuous belt below the polar ice cap and above the tree Tine in the ‘northern hernisphere. occupies the northern fringe of Canada, Alaska, European Russia, Siberia and island group of Arctic Ocean. On the south pole, tundra very smal since most of it is covered by ocean Alpine tundra occurs at high mountains above the with respect to Arctic mountainsare found at al latitudes there- fore alpine tunclra shove day and aight temperature vari- ‘© Flora and fauna: Typical vegetation of atic tundra is cotton peas, sedges, dwarf heath, willows, birches and lichens. Animals of tuncra are reindeer, musk ox, arctic fare, caribous, lemmings and squirrel. ‘Most of them have long life eg. aretc willow has a if span of 150 to 300 years, They are protected from chillness by the presence of thick cuticle and epidermal hair. Mammals of the tundra region lave large body size, small tail and small ear to avoid the loss of heat from the surface. The http//tme/UPSCMaterials 0 S09 ENNRONMENTE i CHAPTER - 3 QW rE ENT, (STEMS - Irena age body is covered with fur for insulation, Insects have short life cycles which are completed during favourable period of the year, 3.2, FOREST ECOSYSTEM ‘The forest ecosystem includes a complex assemblage of ferent kinds of biotic communities. Optimum conditions such as temperature and ground moisture are responsible for the establishment of forest communities. “The nature ofsoll, climate and local topography determine the distribution of trees and their abundance in the forest vegetation. Forests may he evergreen or deciduous. They are distinguished on the basis of leaf into brond-leafed or needle leafed coniferous forests in the case of temperate “The forest ecosystems have been cassified into three major categories: coniferous frest, temperate forest and tropical forest, Al these forect biomes are generally arranged on a gaint from north to south latitude or from high to lower altitude. Do you know? DDart Frogs got their name because hunters would tip ‘hele arrows in the frog's poisons. Sadly, because peo- ple are cutting down rainforests for farming and ranching, Poison Dart Frogs are at risk The Blue Poi- ‘son Dart Frog is the most endangered due to the pet- shop market. 3.2.4, Coniferous forest (boreal forest): * Cold regions with high rainfall, strong seasonal cli- mates with long winters and short summers are char- acterised by boreal coniferous forest ‘Mins noe par of ibm ped ay fm ory anni emis WE‘+ This is characterised by evergreen plant spectes such as Spruce, fir and pine trees, etc and by animals such as the Iynx, wolf, bear, red fox, porcupine, squirrel, and amphibians tke Hla, Rana, ee * Boreal forest soils are characterizod by thin podaols and {are rather poor. Both because, the weathering of rocks proceeds slowly in cold environments and because the liter derived from conifer needle (leaf ) is decomposed very slowly and is oot rich in nutrients. ‘© These soils are acidic and are mineral deficient. This is ‘due to movement of large amount of water through the sol, without a significant counter-upward moventent of ‘evaporation, essential soluble nutrients like calcium, nitrogen and potassium which are leached sometimes ‘beyond the reach of roots. This process leaves no alka- line oriented cations to encounter the organic acids of the accumulating liter. * The productivity and community stability of a boreal forest are lower than those of anyother forest ecosystem. 3.2.2. Temperate deciduous forest: ‘The temperate forests are characterised by a moderate climate and broad-leafed deciduous trees, which shed their leaves in fal, are bare over winter and grow new foliage in the spring. ‘* The precipitation is fairly uniform throughout ‘Soils of temperate forests are podzolic and faiely deep. 3.233, Temperate evergreen forest: ‘+ Parts ofthe world that have Mediterranean type of eli- mate are characterised by warm, dry summers and ‘cool, moist winters, ‘+ These are commonly inhabitated by low broad leafed evergreen trees. ‘+ Fireis an important hazardous factor inthis ecosystern and the adaptation of the plants enable them to regener~ ‘ate quickly after being burnt. De you know? ‘Penguins are warm Liboded just ke whales, penguinshave layer of fat under thei skin call “bubber”, Overtop of ‘his they are covered with uff ‘down! feathers and over- tap of those they have their outer feathers which overlap to seal in warmth, Penguins rub ol from a gland onto their ‘feathers to help make them waterproof and wind proof, 3.2.4. Temperate rain forests: ‘© The temperate rain forests exhibit a marked seasonality ‘with regard to temperature and rainfall, Rainfall is high, and fog may be very heavy. It is the important source of water than rainfall itself, ‘The biotic diversity of temperate rain forests is high as coinpared to other temperate forest. However, the di- versity of plants and animals is much low as compared to the tropical rainforest Do you know? Frog's tongues are attached to the front of their ‘mouths rather than at the badklike inumans. When a frog catches an insect it throws its sticky tongue out of it’s mouth and wraps it around its prey. The frog’s tongue then snaps back and throws the food down its throat, 3-25, Tropical rain forests: ‘Tropical rainforests occur near the equator, * Tropical rain forests are among the most diverse and rich communities on the earth. ‘* Both temperature and humidity remain high and more or less uniform. ‘The annual rainfall exceeds 200 cm and is generally Oxygen enters the aquatic ecosystem through the air water interface and by the photosynthetic activities of aquatic plants, Therefore, the quantity of dissolved oxygen present in an eooaystem depends on the rate at which the aforesaid two processes occur. ‘Dissolved oxygen escapes the water body through air- ‘water interface and through respiration of organisms (fish, decomposers, zooplanktons, et). ‘+The amount of dissolved oxygen retained in water is also influenced by temperature. Oxygen is less soluble in warm water. Warm water also enhances decomposer activity. Therefore, increasing the temperature ofa wa- terbody increases the rate at which oxygen is depleted from water. When che dissolved axygen level falls below 3-5 ppm, ‘many aquatic organisms are likely to die. (Other limiting factors which influence on aquatic produc- tivity are ‘Transparency: ‘> Transparency affects the extent of light penetration ‘Suspended particulate matters such a cay, sil, phyto- plankton, etc make the water turbid. "+ Consequently it limits the extent of light penetration ‘and the photosynthetic activity in a significant way. Temperature: ‘+ The water temperature changes less rapidly than the temperature of air because water has a considerably higher specific heat than air, i.e. larger amounts af heat ‘energy must be added to or taken away from water to rie or lower its temperature. © Since water temperatures are les subject to change, the ‘aquatic organisms have narrow temperature tolerance limit. Asa resul, even small changes in water temperature are 2 great threat to the survival of aquatic organisms when ‘compared to the changes in air temperatures in the ter- retrial organisms. ‘The classification of organisms and limiting factors dis- ‘cussed here apply in general to all aquatic ecosystems ~ Jakes Fonds, Rivers, Streams, Estuaries, cans and seas, Do you know? Bats aze socal animals. They hang UPSIDE DOWN. ‘when they sleep. They feed at night (Chey are “noctur- nal) and spend the day sleeping in caves or in tree tops. They are the second largest group of mammals after rodents, AU high Reseed Mo par of nat maybe prada ina roy ianJoin Our Telegram Channel 4.2. LAKE ECOLOGY Any - body of standing water, generally large enough in area and depth, ierespective ofits hydrology , ecology, and ‘other characteristics is generally known as lake. 4.2, Ageing of Lakes ‘Like any organism, lakes are born 2s they originate by various geological and geomorphic events, and ‘grow’ ‘with time to change in their various morphological and functional characteristics and eventually die. They receive their water from surface runoff (some: times aloo groundwater discharge) and along with it various chemical substances and mineral mater eroded from the land. ‘over periods spanning millenia, ‘ageing’ oocurs as the Jakes accumulate mineral and organic matier and grad aly get led up. (he nutrientenrichment ofthe lakes promotes the growth of algne, aquatic plants and various fauna. This process is nowa as natural eutrophication. similar nutrient entichment of lakes at an accelerated rate is caused by human activities (discharge of waste- /waters or agricultural runoff) and the consequent age- ing phenomenon is known as ‘cultural eutrophication http//tme/UPSCMaterials 990° @ 825 ENVIRONMENT known as Freshwater, Brackish or Saline lakes (similar to that of classification of aquatic ecosystem) ‘© On the basis of their nutrient content, they are catego raed as Oligotrophic (very low nutrients), Mesotrophic (oderate nutrients) and Eutrophic (highly nutrient rich) + Vast majority of lakes in India are either eutrophic or ‘mesotrophic because of the nutrients derived from their surroundings or organic wastes entering thera, 4.23, General Characteristics of Oligotrophic ‘and eutrophic Lakes (Do you know? Poison Dart frogs live In rainforest habitats in Central |and South America. They can be found in trees, as well 422. In India «In India, natura lakes (relatively few) mostly lie in the Himalayan region , the Nloodplains of indus, Genge and Brahmaputra ‘+ In the semi-arid and arid regions of western and pen- ingular India, tens of thousands of water bodies have ‘been constructed over millennia ‘© Lake ‘Sudarshan’ in Gujarat’s Girnar area was pethaps the oldest man-made lake in India, dating back to 300 BC. ‘Lakes are also classified on the basis of their water chemistry. Based on the levels of salinity, they are pe of lake ‘Sino | Parameter | Oligotrophie [ Eutrophic +. [Aquatic plant [Low Eliminated production Jdue to Eutrophication [Aquatic Low Eliminated ‘animal due to production Eutrophication 3 [Aquatic plant [Low High’ aurtrient flux 4 pOxsgeain the [Present Absent hhypotimnion Chottom layer) [Depth Tend be [Tend tobe cooper shallower 6 [water quality [Good Poor for domestic 8 industrial uses 7 Total salts or | Usually ower | Sometimes ‘conductance higher 8 [Numberot [any Fewer plant and ‘animal species 4.2.4. Removal of the nutrients from a lake Flushing with nutrient-poor waters. ‘+ Deep water abstraction «© On-site Pelimination by lceulacion/ flotation with water backflow, or floating Plant NESSIE with adsorbents ‘© Gnrsite algae removal by filters and P-adsorbers, ‘+ On-site algae skimming and separator thickening, + Artificial mixing / Destratification (permanent or inter~ mitten. ‘+ Harvest of fishes and macrophytes. ‘© Sludge removal. ‘Arnis Reap of a yb ded an em or yay eens wit perms a WrJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY Gy) °° 00) ENVIRONMENT! Ameenpur Lake - First Biodiversity Heritage Site ‘Ameenpur Lake gets the status of the first Biodiversity Heritage Site in the country under the biodiversity act, 2002. it is an ancient man-made lake ina western part of ‘Telangana. Biodiversity Heritage Site is areas of biadiver~ sity importance, which harbor rich biodiversity, wild rela tives of crops, or areas, which lic outside the protected area network. Biodiversity Heritage sites are managed by alo- cally constituted Biodiversity Management Committee aid _get funding for its protection, 4.3, EUTROPHICATION ‘Greek word ~ Butropbia means adequate & healthy nu- rrition ‘+ Eutrophication isa symdrome of ecosystem, response to the addition of artificial or natural nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates through fertilizer, sewage, ete that fertilize the aquatic ecosystem, ‘+ tis primarily caused by the leaching of phosphate and + oF nitrate containing fertilisers from agricultural Jands into lakes or rivers. = ‘The growth of green algae which we see in the lake surface layer is the physical identification of an Eu- trophication, ‘+ Some algae and blue-green bactoria thrive on the excess fons and a population explosion covers almost entire ‘surface layer is known as algal bloom. This growth is ‘unsustainable, however. ‘+ As Algal Bloom covers the surface layer, i restricts the ‘Penetration of sunlight. Diffusion of gas from atom ‘Oxygen is required by all respiring animalsin the water and itis replenished by diffusion and photosynthesis of ‘green plants. The oxygen level is alread Tow because ofthe popula tion explosion and further oxygen is taken up by micro- organisms which feed off the dead algae during ‘decomposition process. Due to reduced oxygen level, fishes and other aquatic organism suffocate and they die. ‘+ The anaerobic conditions can promote growth of bac- teria which produces toxins deadly to aquatic organ- isms, birds and mammals. ‘+ All this eventually leads to degradation of aquatic eco- system and death of its organisms, * toften leads to change in animal and plant population & degradation of water & habitat quality. Process of Eutrophication Ste cea aonty ernov sean ‘Ris Rovere par of taal eee i afer by yew perm WeJoin Our Telegram Channel SHANKAR IRE READEMY 4.3.4. Types Natural * epost of matte fac sepsis eno ou We eat flow te ye en poabses + rouse cent + bg Srna und op hd ss 2. Manmade csr in decades ‘These inputs may come from untreated sewage dis charges, runoff of fertilizer from farm fields, golf courses, park etc. & from animal wastes, + Combustion of fossil fuel [produces gases ~ nitrogen oxides + Growing urban population inthe coastal areas 43:2, Sources rable to one influence In point source nutrient waste travels directly from source to water. © Point sources are easy to regulate Trees é fries the irs and the foremost use of tees R- ‘Restoration, reclamation and rejuvenation of denuded ‘and disturbed soils by using trees fo cota silero- son and desertification, protect watersheds, improve soil sient stats (by growing nitrogen fixing trees) and retain moisture inthe soil Ecologia, eco-leelopmental and environmental use af tees for effective and eflient purification ofthe environment because trees act as cxygen banks and eliminate air pollutants; for aboting or moderating temperature, noise and wind by planting trees as environmental screens, thus affecting the microcli- __ mate; for harboring wildlife; for maintaining biodi- “versity; and fr conserving energy |E - Educational and recreational value in gardening, landscaping, art, culture and religion 5 - Source of sustenance; ie, food, ful fodder, feetizer, fiber, medicine, tannin, dyes lls, 2c http//tme/UPSCMaterials QB.0°g Ds ENVIRONMENT) 2, Non-point source + Is from various ill-defined and diffuse sources © Vary spatlally and temporarily and are difficult to regulate, FLOW CHART ‘Agricultural ronof, untreated sewage, ete + “Transportation to the aquatie ecosystem £ Natrient accumulation and enrichment ‘Overgrowth of Algae ‘gal loom = “igae covering the aquatic surface layer = Testriis the sunlight penctratfon, Diffusion of DO. Underground aquatic Algae, plants die + Bacterial Decomposition consumes the available ‘oxygen in the aquatic ecosystem “Anoxia condition (Devoid of oxygen) + ‘All aquatic organism die due to lack of DO. + Degradation of aquatic ecosystem 43.2. Fifects Change in ecosystem: ‘© Futrophication eventually create detritus layer in the ponds & lakes and produces successively shallower depth of surface water ‘+ Eventually the water body is reduced into marsh whose plant community is transformed from an aquatic envi- ronment to recognizable terrestrial ecosystem, Decreased biodiversity «Algal blooms restrict the sunlight to penetrate & affects the photoeynthesizing plants, It causes death of plans. + Bacteria consumes all the oxygen on decomposition & results in devoid of exygen. Eventually it eas to death ‘ofall living organism in aquatic ecosystem. ‘ges ea par aerial may Deepen i fa aby any as wit emo WeNew species invasion ‘+ Eutrophication may cause the ecosystem competitive by transforming the normal limiting nutrient to abundant level. This cause shifting in species composition uf eu system Toxicity ‘© Some algal blooms when die or eaten, release neuro & hhepetotoxins which can kill aquatic organism & pose ‘threat to hamans, (¢g) Shellfish poisoning ‘+ Depletion of dissolved oxygen level. ‘+ Increased incidences of fish kills Sloss of desirable fish species & reduction in harvesting ‘+ Loss of coral reefs © Decrease in water transparency and increased turbidity ‘Affects navigation due to increased turbidity, * Colour (yellow, green, red), smell and water treatment problems. + Increased biomass of inedible taxi phytoplankton * Increase in bloom of gelatinous zooplankton Increased biomass of benthic and epiphytic algae ‘© Unsuitable for aesthetic recreation, and reduction in value of water body ‘Do you know? ‘The worlds tallest tree is a‘coastrediyood in Califor- ‘la, measuring more than 360 ft or n10 m. Mitigation ‘© Riparian butter + Interfaces between a flowing body of water and land. created near the waterways, farms, roads, ete. in an attempt to filter pollution. Sediments and nutrients are deposited in the buffer ‘ones instead of deposition in water: ‘+ Minimizing the non-point pollution, ‘+ Nitrogen testing & modeling, ‘+ N-Testing is @ technique to find the optimum amount of fertilizer required for crop plants. It will reduce the amount of nitrogen lost to the surrounding area. + Treatment of Industrial effluents ‘+ Organic farming & Integrated Farming System, ‘+ Reduction in livestock densities, + Improving the efficiency of use of fertilizer ‘© ‘Treatment of runoff from street & storm drains ‘> Reduction in nitrogen emission from vehices and power plants + Increase in eliciency of nitrogen & phosphorus = ‘moval from municipal waste water Policies ‘+ Multi dimensional in Nature should include ‘© Education & awareness ‘+ Research, monitoring & evaluation ‘+ Regulations, ‘Fiscal & economic incentives ‘+ Ecosystem preservation & restoration 44. HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS ‘+ Algee or phytoplankton are microscopic organisms that can be found naturally in coastal waters. They are ‘major producers of oxygen and food for many of che animals that live in these waters, ‘+ When environmental conditions are favorable for their evelopment, these cells may multiply rapidly and form high aumbers of cells and this is called an algal bloom, ‘A loom often results in a color change in the wate: Algal blooms can be any color, ut the most common ‘ones are red or brown. These blooms are commonly referred to as red or brown tides. ‘Most algal blooms are not harmful but some produce toxins and do affect fish, birds, marine mammals and humans. The toxins may also make the surrounding ait ificule to breathe, These are known as Harmful Algal Blooms (HABS) 4-4.2. Why Red Tide is a misnomer? © "Red Tide" isa common name for such a phenomenon ‘where certain phytoplankton species contain pigments and “bloom” such that the human eye perceives the water to be discolored. ‘+ Blooms can appear greenish, brown, and even reddish ‘orange depending upon the type of organism, the type ‘of water, and the concentration of the organisms, ‘© The term “red tide” is thus a misnomer because blooms ‘are not always red, they are not associated with tides, they are usually not harmful, and some species can be ‘harmful or dangerous at low cell concentrations that do not discolor the water, + They are scientifically referred as Harmful Algal Blooms (ABS), AL Rights Rsv, re he mates may Be eroded ny emir by any mane wil prs WH4.43. What are the causes of these blooms? ‘© Blooms eccur when several colonies start combining, ‘rapidly when conditions such as nutrient concentra tions, salinity and temperature are optimal ‘© Blooms can be due to a number of reasons. Two com ‘mon eauges are nutrient enrichment and warm waters. ‘© Nutrient enrichment of water, especially phosphates and rlteogen, is often the resull of pollution and can cause algal blooms. ‘+ Water temperature has also been related to the occur~ rence of algal blooms, with unusually warm water being conducive to blooms. 4-4-4. How are HABs dangerous to fish and humans? ‘+ ABs can deplete oxygen in water and lead to low dis- solved oxygen levels. ‘+ How it depletes oxygen? When masses of algae die and decompose, the decaying process can deplete oxygen in the water, causing the water to become so low in oxygen. ‘© When oxygen levels become too low, fish suffocate and die. ‘+ Some algae species in blooms prochuce potent nevrotox- ‘ns that can be transferred through the food web where: ‘they affect and even kil the higher forms of lie such a8 zooplankton, shelifish, fish, birds, marine mammals, and even humans that feed elther directly or indicectiy fon them. Do you know? Elephant live fn a social hierarchy dominated by older females. Females travel in long-lasting social units of bout half a dozen adult females and their offspring, ‘with the unit being led by a single older female, the ‘matriarch. * 4.45. Is HAB's an environmental hazard? Yes, it is because these events can make people sick ‘when contaminated shellfish ae eaten, or when people breathe aerosolized HAB toxins near the beach, ‘© In addition, HAB events can result in the closure of shellfish beds, massive fish kills, death of marine mam= ‘mals and seabirds, and alteration of marine habitats + As a consequence, HAB events adversely affect com- ‘mercial and recreational fishing, tourism, and valued Inabitats, creating a significant impact on local econo mies and the livelinood of coastal residents, 4:4.6. How do we get exposed to HAB toxins? ‘© Mostillaess associated with HAB exposure isthe result of consuming toxins that are present in shellfish or finfic. ‘+ Some HAB toxins can become airborne during a bloom ‘and people can become ill by inhaling toxins. 4-47: Is it safe to eat seafood? ‘© In general, itis safe to eat seafood. ‘© However, consuming shellfish that have been harvested, from waters with high levels of harmful algae and con- ‘suring fish that have lesions or that were caught in an area during an algal blaom can result in illness. 4-4.8. HABs and Climate Change Because the growth, toxicity, and distribution of harm- ful algal loom (HAB) species are all ted to the environ- ‘meat, changes in climate can change the occurrence, severity, and impacts of HAB events 4.5, WET LAND ECOSYSTEM ‘Wetlands are arcos intermediate in character between deepwater and terrestrial habitats als transitional in nature, and often located between them. + These habitats experience periodic ooding from adja cent deepwater habitats and therefore supports plants and animals specifically adapted to such shallow flood- ing or water logging ofthe substrate, were designated as wetlands They included lke littorals (marginal areas between highese and lowest water level of the lakes), ood plains (areas lying adjacent tothe river channels be- yond the natural levees and periodically flooded ducing high discharge in the river) and other marshy for swampy areas where water gets stagnated due to poor drainage or relatively impervious substrata & Dogs, fens and mangroves due to similar ecological characteristics 42. Definition Areas of marsh, fen, peatland/water, whether natural (02) artifical, permanent (cr) temporary with water that ig static (or) flowing, fresh, brackish (or) sal, including, areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide [Rreaga cro Nop bistro prdalvan rm Fay ess, wot pmo in Win does nok enced 6 mts Ls |Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials UBHRMeARIRS RERDEMY GZ)"; CORTTENVIRONMENT] 4.5.2. Characteristics © Covered by water (or) has waterlogged sol for atleast seven days during the growing season. ‘Adopted plan ie (hydrophiytes) ‘Hydric soils (not enough (2 available for some pants) 4.53. Wetlands Classification WETLAND INLAND COASTAL WETLAND WETLAND Natural ‘Man made Nataral Man made ‘ + + *# Laes/ Ponds Reservoirs «estuary Salt pans + Oxbow Lakes Tanks ‘+ Lagoon + Aguoultere © Waterlogsed. © Waterlogged # Creek Seasonal Ash pond + Backwater Swamp/marsh ° Bay + Coral reef Tidal fat + Mangroves Saltmarsh 45-4. Functions of Wetlands ‘+ Comprise an important resource for sustainable tour- ‘¢ Habitat to aquatic flora and fauna, as well as numerous species of birds, including migratory species. ‘+ Filtration of sediments and nutrients from surface water: ‘+ Nutrients recycing * Water purification ‘* Floods mitigation ‘+ Maintenance of stream flow ‘= Ground water recharging ‘+ Provide drinking water, fish, fodder, Fuel, ete ‘© Control rate of runoffin urban areas * Buffer shorelines against erosion ism, recreation and cultural heritage ‘Stabilization of local climate * Source of lveibaod to local people + Genetic reservoir for various species of plants (espe- cially rice) ‘+ Supporting speci diversity 455. Reasons for depletion * Conversion of lands for agriculture + overgrazing ‘© Removal of sand from beds Aqua culture ‘Habitat Destruction and Deforestation A Righsesere No a ois aerial ay era aye any me wit em n wringJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials (SHANKAR IRSAcADEMY |G 0%) 2) ENVIRONMENT ‘+ Pollution ‘» Domestic waste ‘© Agricultural runofh ‘+ Industrial effluents ‘+ Climate change 45.6. Mitigation ‘© Survey and demarcation ‘+ Protection of natural regeneration Artificial regeneration ‘+ Protective measures + Afforestation (percentage survival to be indicated) + Weed control + Sol conservation measures & afforestation ‘+ Wildlife conservation 4-52 Distinction from Lakes ‘¢ Although the Ministry of Fnvironment and Forests bas ‘not adopted a clear distinction between lakes and wet- lands, the National Lake Conservation Programme (NLCP) considers lakes as standing water bodies which have a minimum water depth of 3 m, generally cover a “water spread of more than ten hectares, and have no or very little aquatic vegetation (macrophytes). ‘© ‘These water bodies are used primarily for drinking ‘water supplies, irrigation and/or recreation. © Excessive growth of macrophites (both submerged and free-floating) generally present in wetland, afects the water quality adversely and interfere with the utliza- tion ofthe water body. ‘¢ However, marginal aquatic vegetation (wetlands), par- ticularly comprising of emergent plants and those in- habiting waterlogged soils, is not only desirable but is ‘to be promoced because it checks erosion, serves habitat for wildlife ana helps improve water quality. ‘+ Wetlands (generally less than 3 m deep over most of theie area) are usually rich in nutrients (derived from ‘surroundings and their sediments) and have abundant ‘growth of aquatic macrophytes. ‘¢ "They support high densities and diversity of fauna, par~ ticularly birds fish and macro invertebrates, and there- fore, have high value for biodiversity conservation. These shallow lakes are rightfully categorized as wetlands «© lakes are generally less important when compared to ‘wetland from the viewpoint of ecosystem and biodiver- sity conservation. 445.8. Comparison between Lake and Wetlands ‘SI, [Characteristic] Lake Wetland no (hallow lake) +. [origin [various process|Flavial/ |Geomorphic [processes "z |Water turnover [Permanent [Permanent or [Temporary 3 [Water level [relatively small Relatively Large changes 4 Littoral [Small iLarge Pelagiel ratio 3 (Thermal [Yes No stratification [vertical mixing [Thermally _|Wind regulated regulated 7 [Dominant [Phyto plankton |Macrophytes Producer & |Foodchain [Grazing [Detritus [Pathway | Pathway ‘9. [Nutrient Cyeles | Microbial loops [Microbial loop less important |dominant 1, [Productivity |Low igh ‘i, [Trophic status [Oligo trophie [Mostly Eutrophic \(Except desirabe| jin bogs) 1, [Biodiversity [Generally low |Generally high 7g, [Functions Less Significant Flood control _|Significant Ta, [Groundwater |Negligiblefow |Low-high recharge 15. Wate INo Wes treatment 16, [Management [Control of [Biodiversity [objectives _jeutrophication |conservation Hig Specific [Water quality [Functions ‘Aoi teed opr er eb ered nny orm ey any means, wt permiio ih wagJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials "sewn Acre Y Gy) 8) ENVIRONMENT 4:59. India’s Wetlands *+ Wetlands are areas of critical ecological significance: 3s they support biodiversity, support milians of people directly and indirectly, protect from storms, food con- tro, improve water quality, supply fod, fiber and raw materials + India as totally 27.403 wetlands of which 23,44 are infand wetlands and 3959 are coastal wetiands. Wet lands occupy 18.4% ofthe country’s area af which 7095 are under paddy cultivation. + Naturel wetlands in India range from high altitude wet- lands in Himalayas flood plains ofthe major iver sys- tems; saline and temporary wetlands ofthe arid and semi-arid regions; coastal wetlands such as lagoons, backwaters, estuaries, mangroves, swamps and coral reefs, and 30 on ‘Do you know? ‘Kannimara teak is one of the largest living teak tree Inthe wodd Iehas an amazing girth of 64m and a crown height of 48.75ra Itis believed to be around 400 years , According tothe loa tribal belt here when thi tse ‘was tried to cut down, the blood spurted out from the place of cut. This tree was being since then wor- shipped by the local tribes in Paramnbikulam as “Vir= 4.5.10, National Wetlands Conservation Programme (NWCP) ‘+ NWCP was implemented inthe year 1985-86. ‘+ Under the programme, 135 wetlands (Annexure) have been identified by the Ministry which require urgent conservation and management interventions. Aim ‘+ Conservation of wetlands to prevent their further deg- radation and ensuring their wise use for the benefit of local communities and overall conservation of bi diversity Objectives + to ay down policy guidelines for conservation and man- agement of wetlands in the country. ‘© to provide financial assistance far undertaking intensive conservation measures inthe identified wetlands, ‘+ to monitor implementation of the programme; and to prepare an inventory of indian wetlands. ‘The Central Government is responsible for overall co- ordination of wetland conservation programmes and intatives at the international and national levels. It also provides guidelines, nancial & technical assistance to state govt Since the land resources belong to them, the State Gov- emments/UT Administration are responsible for man: agement of wetlands and implementation of the NWCP for ensuring their wise-use. 451. Criteria for Identification of Wetlands of ‘National Importance + Criteria for identification of wetlands of national impor: tance under NWP are same as those prescribed under the ‘Ramsar Convention on Wetlands and areas given below: + Sites containing representative, rare oc unique wetland types (© itcontains a representative, rare, or unique example ‘of natural or near-ratural wetland type found within the appropriate biogeographic region. ‘+ Criteria based on species and ecological communities (i) If it supports vulnerable, endangered, or cxtically ea- a Ges ENVIRONMENT ‘One of the main features of the Mission is to make India 2 global leader in solar energy and the tission envisages an installed solar generation capacity of 100 GW (revised targed by 2072 6.6 International Solar Alliance International Solar Alliance (188) is launched atthe CoPas Climate Conference in Paris on 3oth November asa special platform for mutual cooperation among 121 solar resource rich countries lying fully or partially between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. “The alliance is dedicated to address special energy needs of ISA member countries. International Agency for Solar Policy and Application ASPA) will be the formal name of international Solar Alliance. The ISA seeretariat will be set up in National Institute of Solar Energy, Gurgaon, Objectives 1. twforee down price by driving demand to bring stordardization in solar technologies 3. to foster research and development. Prime Minister coined the new term “Surya Putra fr al ‘he nations which fal etween Tropic of Cancer and Tropic (of Capricarn, and which have been invite to jin the alli- ance. The other srr ysed for these countries is “Sunshine Countries’ 1538 20g7 stands for India Enesgy Security Scenarios 2047 caleulator which has been launched by India to explore the potential of future energy scenarias fr india. 6.2. LUMINESCENT SOLAR CONCENTRATORS ‘ATuminescent solar concentrator (LSC) isa device that uses a thin sheet of material wo trap solar radiation over a lenge area, before directing the energy (hrough lumines- cent emission) to cells mounted onthe thin edges ofthe material layer ‘The thin sheet of material typically consists of a polymer (ouch as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), doped with luminescent species suchas organic dyes, quantum dts or rare earth complexes. What is the need for LSCs? ‘* The main motivation for implementing LSCs is to replace a large area of expensive solar cells ina stand-Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials | shankrm nsAcRoENY 0° ard flat-plate PV panel, with a cheaper alternative ‘Therefore there is both a reduction in both the cost ‘of the module («/W) and the solar power produced Cesk) A-key advantage of over typical concentrating sys- tems Is that LSCs can collect both direct and diffuse solar radiation, Therefore tracking of the sun is not required, ‘SCs are excellent candidates for building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and for the cloudier northern ‘climates Ideal LSC A broad absorption range to utilize the solar spectrum, efficiently, + 100M emission of light from the absorbing luminescent species ‘+ Aarge shift beween the absorption and emission spec- ta to reduce absorption losses. Long term stability Challenges for LSC © The development of 1.SCs alms to create 2 working structure that performs close to the theoretical maxi rum efficiency. International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) IRENA has 150 member nations with Headquarters in Abu Dhabi. ‘The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is an intergovernmental organisation that supports countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future, and serves as the principal platform for international coop- eration, a centre of excellence, and a repository of policy, technology, resource and financial knowledge on renew: able energy. IRENA promotes the widespread adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy, inchiding bioenergy, ‘geothermal, hydropower, ocean, solar and wind ener the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, ‘energy security and low-carbon economic growth and Prosperity. 6.3 WIND ENERGY Wind energy is the kinetic energy associated with the movement of atmospheric ai: Wind turbines transform the energy in the wind into mechanical power, further con- verting to electric power to generate electricity. Five nations - Germany, USA, Denmark, Spain and India ~ account for 80% of the world’s installed wind energy capacity, 634 Wind farm A wind farm isa group of wind turbines in the same loca- ‘don used for production of electricity. A wind farm can be located onshore and offshore. ‘+ Onshore wind farms: operate an land, where the wind tends to be the strongest. The turbines of a Onshore wind farms are less expensive and easier to set up, ‘maintain and operate than offshore turbines. + Offshore wind farms: Construction of wind farms in large bodies of water to gonerate clectrici wind farms are more expensive than onshore wind farms of the same nominal power: 63.2 Working of wind turbines Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy in the wind into mechanical energy. This mechanical power can be used for specific tasks (such as grinding grain or pumping ‘water or a generator can convert chis mechanical power into electricity. Most turbines have three aerodynamically designed blades. The energy in the wind turns two or three propeller-like Hades around a rotor that is con nected to the main shaft, which spins generator to create electricity. Wind turbines are mounted on a tower to cap- ture the most energy. At 10 feet (30 meters) or more above ground, they can take advantage of faster and less turbulent vind Three main variables determine how much electricity 8 turbine can proce: 1 Wind speed- stronger winds produce more energy. Wind turbine generates energy ata speed of 4-25 me- tres per second 2, Blade adius-the larger the radius of Hades, the more the energy produced. Doubling the blace radius can result in four times more power 23. Ait density: Heavier ar exerts more lift ona rotor Aix ensity is function ofakitude, temperature and pres- sure High altitude locations have low air pressure and lighter airs they are ess productive trbine cations. The dense heavy air near sea lovel drives rotors aster and thus relatively more effectively 6.3.3 Two types of wind turbines 1) Horkzontal-axis design has two or three blades that pia ‘upwind of the tower. A horizontal axis machine has its blades rotating on an axis parallel to the ground. Ris ser No porta hi mri maybe repre nay ror any mane whenJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials "SHANKAR IRS ACROEMY 2) Vertical-axis turtines has vertical blades that rotate in ‘and out of the wind. The vertical axis turbine has its blades rcating on an axis perpendicular to the ground, ‘This drag-type turbine turns relatively slowly but yields ‘a high torque. It is useful for grinding grain, pumping water and many other tasks, bur its slow rotational speeds are not optimal for generating electricity. Ver: ticalsaxis turbines do not take advantage ofthe higher ‘wind speeds at higher elevations (300 feet and so) above the ground vis-a-vis horizontal axis turbines, 6.3.4 Potential of wind energy in India “The National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE} has recently launched Wind Energy Resource Map of India at 100 meter above ground level (AGL) on online Geographic Informa- tion System platform. The wind energy potential in the country at 100 m AGL is cover 302 GW. Gujarat has the maximum potential followed. by Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andra Pradesh according to the resource map. Wind enecgy target ‘+ 60000 MW (60 GW) by 2022 + 200000 MW (200 GW) by 2022 63.5 Capacity installed ‘© Tamil Nadu - 7200 MW" ‘© Maharastra - 4ooo MW ‘Karnataka - 2700 MW ‘© Rajasthan ~ ar00 MW ‘Andra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, kerala are minor players with installed capacty of less than 1900 MW ‘National Offshore Wind Energy Policy, 2015: Under this Policy the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MINRE) has been authorized as the Nodal Ministry for use of offshore areas within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the country and the National Intitate of Wind Energy (NIWE) has been authorized as the Nodal Agency for development of offshore wind energy in the country and ta carry ovt allocation of offshore wind energy blocks, coordination and alied functions with related ministries and agencies Ik would pave the way for offshore wind energy develop- ment including, seting up of offshore wind power projects, ‘and research and development activities, in water, in or adjacent to the country, up tothe seaward distance of 200 [Nautical Miles (EEZof the country) from the base line ~- 0°99, ENVIRONMENT eB ‘The policy will provide a level playing field to all investors/ beneficiaries, domestic and international National Wind Energy Mission (Proposed): Initiated the process of establishing National Wind Energy Mission. ‘The setting up of a Mission would help in (@) achieving the targets of ath Plan and energy generation from renewable energy as set unkler NAPCC, and (b) addressing the issues and challenges which the wind sector is faced with, such as precise resource assessment, effective grid integration, improvement in technology and manufacturing base, to maintain its comparative advan- tage in the wind sector 64, HYDRO POWER Hydraulic power can be captured when water flows down- ward from a higher level to a lower level which i then used torurn the turbine, thereby converting the kinetic energy of water into mechanical energy to drive the generator, Hydro power is cheapest, and cleanest source of energy but there are many environmental and social issues associated with big dams as seen in projects like Tehri, Narmada, ete. ‘Small hydro power are free from these problems 6.4.1 Types of hydro power stations ‘There are three types of hydropower facilities: impound tment, diversion, and pumped storage. Some hydropower plants use dams and some do not. @ Impoundment, The most common type of hydroelectric power plant is an poundment facility. An impoundment facility, typically alarge bydropower system, usesa dam to store river water in a reservoir. Water released from the reservoir flows through 2 turbine, spinning i, which In turn activates a ‘generator to produce electricity (@) Diversion ‘A diversion, sometimes called run-oFriver facility channels ‘a portion of a river through a canal or penstock and then to flow through a turbine, spinning it, whch in turn act vales a generator to produce electricity.lt may not require the use of a dam, (G) Pumped storage I works like a battery, storing the electricity generated by ‘other power sources like solar, wind, and nuclear for later “gcd Naf a tri maybe padi ny no ya meas thou eC nwJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY use. When the demand for electricity is low, a pumped storage facility stores energy by pumping water from lower reservoir to an upper reservoir: During periods of high electrical demand, the water is celeased back to the lower reservoir and turns a turbine, generating electricity, 6.4.2 Small Hydro Power (SHP) ‘Small hydro is defined as any hydro power project which has an installed capacity of les than 25 MW. Its in most ‘cases run-ofriver, where a dam or barrage is quite small, usualy just a weir with little or no water is stored. There- fore run-ofriver installations do not have the same kind of adverse effect on the local environment as large-scale hydro projects. Small hyslropower plants can serve the energy neods of remote rural areas independently. India and China are the major players of the SHP sector, holding the highest number of installed projects. 6.4.3 Small Hydro Potential in India * Anestimated 5,415 sites of small hydro have been iden tified with @ potential of around 19750 MW. ‘© River based projects in the Himalayan states and irriga- tion canals in other states have massive potential for evelopment of Small Hydro Projects. ‘According to the XIlth five year plan targets eapacity addition from Small Hydro Projects is targeted at 2.2 GW in 201:-27 period. * The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is encour ‘aging development of Small Hydro Projects in both the public and private sector and aims to exploit at least ‘50% of the current potential in the next 10 years. 6.4.4 Installed capac ‘The cumulative installed capacity of Small Hydro Projects ‘mount to 3726 MW. 6.5 OCEAN THERMAL ENERGY Large amounts of solar energy is stored ia the oceans and ‘eas, On an average, the 60 millon square kilometre of the ‘tropical seas absorb solar radiation equivalent to the heat content of 245 billion barrels of ol The process of harnessing this energy is called OTEC (ocean thermal energy conversion, It uses the temperature Gitferences between the surface of the ocean and the depths of about 1000m to operate a heat engine, which produces electric power Waves result from the interaction of the wind with the surface ofthe sea and represent a transfer of energy from. the wind tothe sea ‘The first wave energy, project with a capacity of geMW, thas been set up at Vizhinjam near Trivandrum, Tidal energy Energy can be extracted from tides by creating a reservoir or basin behind a barrage and then passing tidal waters "trough turbines in the barrage to generate electricity, A major tidal wave power project costing of Re.5000 crores, is proposed to be set up in the Hanthal Creek in the Gul ‘of Kutch in Gujarat, Biomass [Biomass is a renewable energy resource derived from the carbonaceous waste of various human and natural activi ties, It is derived from numerous sources, inchiding the by-products from the timber industry, agricultural erops, ‘grassy anal woody plants, residues from agriculture ar for estry, oil-rich algae, and the organic component of rmu- nicipal and industrial wastes. Biomass isa good substieate for the conventional fossil fuels for heating and energy ‘generation purposes, Burning biomass releases about the same amount of car- bbon dioxide as burning fossil fuels. However, fossil fuels release carbon dioxide captured by photosynthesis over its formative years, Biomass, on the other hand, releases car~ bon dicxide that is largely balanced by the carbon dioxide ‘captured in its own growth (depending how much energy ‘was used to grow, harvest, and process the fuel). Hence, [Biomass does not add carbon dione to the atmosphere as it absorbs tie same amount of carbon in growing ae it releases when consumed as a fuel, Chemical processes Tike gasification, combustion and py- rolysis convert biomass to useful products, combustion being the most common of them. Each of the technologies ‘mentioned produces 2 major calorific end product and a ‘mixture of by-products. The processing method is selected on the basis of nature and origin of feed stocks, their phys- iochemical state and application spectrum of Fue products derived from it Anaerobic Digestion/Biomethanation Biomethanation, or methanogenesis, i a scientific process whereby anaerobic microorganisms in an anaerobic envi ronment decompose biodegradable matter producing ‘Rp Rsv arts ry epee ay em Oy RE wi mio owlJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials ‘metbane-rich biogas and effluent. The three functions that take place sequentially are hydrolysis, acidogenosis and ‘methanogenesi, Combustion/Incineration In this process, waste is directly burned in the presence of, excess alr (oxygen) at high temperatures (about 800°C), liberating heat energy, inert gases and ash. Combustion results in transfer of 65-60% of heat content of the organic ‘matter to hot air, steam and hot water. The steam gener~ ated, in turn, can be used in steamn turbines to generate power. Pyrolysis/Gasification Pyrolysis isa process of chemical decomposition of organic ‘matter brought about by heat. In this process, the organic, ‘material is heated inthe absence of air until the molecules thermally break down to become a gas comprising smaller ‘molecules (known collectively as syngas). Gasification can also take place as a result of partial ‘combustion of organic matter in the presence of a re- stricted quantity of oxygen or air. The gas so produced is known as producer gas. The gases produced by py- rolysis mainly comprise carbon monoxide (25%), hydro- ‘gen and hydrocarbons (15%), and carbon dioxide and nitrogen (609%). The next step is to ‘clean’ the syngas or producer gas, Thereafter, the gas is burned in internat combustion (IC) engine generator sets or turbines to pro- duce electricity 6.6 COGENERATION Co-generation is producing two forms of energy from on fuel. One ofthe forms of energy must always be heat and the other may be electricity or mechanical energy. In a conventional power plant, fuel is burn in a boiler to gener~ ate high-prescure team. This steam is used to drive a turbine, which in turn drives an alternator through & steam turbine to produce electric power. The exhaust steam is generally condensed to water which goes back to the boiler. ‘As the low-pressure steam has a large quantum of hest ‘which is lost inthe process of condensing, the efficiency of conventional power plants is only around 359. In a cogen- eration plant, the low-pressure exhaust steam coming out ‘of the turbine Is not condensed, but used for heating pur poses in factories oF houses and thus very high efficiency levels, in the range of 7346-90%, can be reached. ‘ince co-generation can mneet both power and heat needs, ‘thas other advantages as well in the form of significant ‘cost savings for the plant and reduction in emissions of polkitants due te reduced fuel consumption, _Even at conservative estimates, the potential of power gen- ‘eration from co-generation in India is more than 20,000 [MW. Since India is the largest producer of sugar in the ‘world, bagasse-based cogeneration is being promoted. The potential for cogeneration thus les in facilities with joint requirement of heat and electricity, primarily sugar and ‘ce mils disilerie, petrochemical sector and industries, such as fertilizer, steel, chemical, cement, pulp and paper, and aluminium. Potential in India Biomass energy is one of te most important sources of, ‘energy forming 32% ofthe total primary energy usage inthe country with more than 70% of the indian pop- ‘lation dependent on it fr its energy necds. ‘+The current availability of biomass is estimated at about 450-500 millon tonnes annually translating to 2 poten- tial of around 18000 MW. ‘= In addition, cbout 5000 MW additional power could be generated through bagasse based cogeneration in the country’s s5e Sugar mills ‘> Weattracts over Rs 600 crore in investinents annually creating rural employment of more than 10 milion man days whilst generating more than 5000 milion units of electricity. Installed capacity in India + Approximately over 300 biomass power and eogenera- tion projects ageregating 3700 MW have been installed in the country for feeding power tothe gr. Also, 30 biomass power projects aggregating about 350MW are under diffrent stage of implementation + Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh are the leading states in the imple~ mentation of bagasse cogeneration projects + Inthe biomass power projects, Andhra Pradesh, Chhat- tisgarh, Matarashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and ‘Tamil Nadu have taken leadership position. + The Government plans to meet 20% of the countries diesel roqsiements by 2020 using biodiesel, Potential sources of biodiesel production have been identified in wild plants euch as jatropha curcas, neem, mabta, karan, Simarouba exotic tres) et. + Several ineentive schemes have been introduced to rehabilitate waste lands through the cultivation of Jatropha. "AL Rigs Reve past he aa ay be ere ay fry any me it pein ewigJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials ‘= Central Finance Assistance (CFA) is provided by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in the ‘form of capital subsidy and financial incentives to bio- mass energy projects in India, 6.7 WASTE TO ENERGY In today’sera, there are increasing quantities of waste due to urbanitation, industralization and changes in life pat- tems which are harmful to the environment. In the recent ‘past, development of technology has helped to reduce the amount of waste for its safe disposal and to generate elec city from it ‘Waste-to-energy has the potential to divert waste from landfills and generate clean power without the emission of harmful greenhouse gas. This significantly reduces the volume of waste that needs to be disposed of and can gen- erate power Pyrolysis and gasification are emerging tech nologies apart from the common incineration and biomethanation, 6,7 Potential of waste-to-energy ‘+ ‘Thereis an estimated potential of about 225 MW from all sewage and about 1460 MW from Municipal Solid ‘Waste (MSW) in India totaling around 1700 MW of power '* Thereis current potential to recover 1300 MW of power from industrial wastes, which is projected to increase to 2,000 MW by 2017. ‘© ‘The total installed capacity of grid interactive power from Waste to energy is 99.08 MW of grid power and about ng.07 MW of off grid power. ‘© MNRE is actively promoting the generation of energy from waste by providing incentives and subsidies on Projects 67.2. Major Constraints Faced by the Indian Waste to Energy Sector + Choice of technology Waste-to-Energy is still a new concept in Inia, Most ofthe prenen and commercial technologies in respect of chan wastes art required to be imported 4 High costs - The costs ofthe projects especially base on bismethanation technology are igh as critical equipment fora project sree tobe imported + improper segregation nda lacks a source separated waste stream, oing to the low lve of compliance of [SHANKAR IR@RCRDEMY = 70°) G9) ENVIRONMENT [Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Rules 2000 by the Mu- ‘cipal Corporations/ Urban Local Bodies. The organic ‘waste is mixed withthe other types of wast. Hence the ‘operations of the waste to energy techniques are hin- dered and lack of smoothness causes the attempts to be short lived + Lack of policy support - Lack of conducive policy guidelines from State Governments in respect of allot- ‘meat of land, supply of garbage and power purchase / evacuation facilities. 6.8 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY Geothermal generation refers to harnessing ofthe geother~ mal energy or the vast reservoir of heat stored in the earth’ inner core. Below che earth's crust, there is a layer of hot and molten rock calle ‘magma’ Heat is continually, produced there, mostly from the decay of naturally radio- Active materials such 2s uranium and potassium, How is it captured Geothermal ystems cen be found in regions with a normal ‘or slightly above normal geothermal gradient (gradual change in temperature is known as the geothermal gradi tent, which expresses the increase in temperature with depth in the earth's crust. The average geothermal gradient is about 25-3 °C/to0 m.) and especialy in regions around plate margins where the geothermal gradients may be sig nificantly higher than che average value ‘The most common current way of capturing the energy from geothermal sources isto tap into naturally occurring, “hydrothermal convection” systems where cooler water seeps into the earths crust, Is heated up and thea rises to the surface. When heated water is forced tothe surface, i a relatively eagy to capture that steam and use itto drive electric generators Potential in India India has a potential for producing around 10,600 MW of | power from geothermal resources. Although India was ‘amongthe earliest countries to begin geothermal projects. Since the 1970, at present there are no operational geo ‘thermal plants in India. 340 bot springs were identified across india,These have been grouped together and termed as different geathertal provinces based on their occur rence in specific geatectonic regions, geological and struc- tural regions such as occurrence in orogenic belt regions, structural grabens, deep fault zones, active voleanic re~ "Ri Rs see pat fi a ay pice ne For ay eas, DO em in Hg tions anJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials GSHANKBR.AS ACROEMY: Orogenie regions: 1 Himalayan geothermal province 1, NagacLushal geothermal province 3. Andaman-Nicobar Islands geothermal province Non-orogenic regions: 1. Cambay graben, Son-Narmada-Tapigraben, 3. West coast, Damodar valley, Mahanadi valley, Godavari valley ete Potential Sites: uga Valley (F&K) “Tattapani (Chhattisgarh) Godavari Basin Manikaran (Himachal Pradesh) Bakreshwar (West Bengal) Tawa (Gujarat) ‘Unai (Maharashtra) Jalgson (Maharashtra) Recent Developments: {In 2013,India's first geothermal power plant was an- ‘ounced to be setup in Chhattisgeth. The plant would be set up at Tattapani in the Balrampur district. Satellites like the URS-t have played an important role, through infrared photographs, in locating geothermal areas. Challenges High generation costs Most costs relating to geothermal power plants are in- ‘curred due to resource exploration and plant construction Drilling costs Although the cost of generating geothermal electricity has decreased by 25 pervent during the last two decades, exe ploration and drilling remain expensive and risky. tis because rocks in geothermal areas are extremely hard and hot, developers must frequently replace drilling equipment. ‘Transmission barrier Geothermal power plants must be located near specific areas near a reservoir because itis not practical to trans: port steam or hot water over distances greater than two miles, Since many of the best geothermal resources are located in rural areas, developers may be limited by their ability to supply electricity ta the grid. New power lines are ‘expensive to construct and difficult to site. Many existing transmission lines are operating near capacity and may not be able to transmit electricity without significant up- sgrades. Consequenty, any significant increase in the num- ber of geothermal power plants will be limited by the plants ability to connect, upgrade or build new lines to access the power grid and whether the grid is able to ce- liver additional power tothe market. ‘Accessibility ‘Some areas may have sufficient hot rocks to supply hot ‘water to a power station, but many of these areas are o- cated in harsh areas or high up in mountains. This curbs ‘he accessibility of geothermal resources adding on to the costs of development. Execution challenges Harmful radioactive gases can escape from deep within the earth through the holes drilled by the constructors ‘The plant must be able to contain any leaked gases and ensure safe disposal of the same, 6.9 FUEL CELLS Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that convert the chemical energy of afuel directly and very efficiently into electricity (DC} and heat, tus doing away with combus- tion, The most suitable fuel fr such eels is hydrogen or @ mixture of compounds containing hydrogen. & Fuel cll consists of an electrolyte sandwiched between two elec ‘trodes. Oxygen passes over one electrode and hydrogen ‘over the other, and they react electrochemically to generate electricity, water, and heat Fuel cells for automobile transport ‘Compared to vehicles powered! ly Ue internal combustion ‘engine, fuel-cell powered vehicles have very high energy conversion efficiency, and near-zero pollution, COa and Water vapour being the only emissions. Fuel-cell-powered EV (electric vehicles) score over battery operated BV'e in terms of increased efficiency and easier and faster refuelling, 1 Indi, diese! run buses are a major means of transpatt and these emic significant quantities of SPM and SO,Thus, fuel-cell powered buses and electric vehicles could be in- troduced with relative ease to dramatically reduce urben Al Rigs esr No part eis tral mayb etd nan fare yay aes hot pornJoin Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials air pollution and to make a positive impact on urban air quality. Fuel cells for power generation Conventional large-scale power plants se non-renewable fuels with significant adverse ecological and enviroamen- tal impacts, Foel cll sytems are excellent candidates for small-scale decentalizeé power generation. Fuel cells can supply combined heat and power to com- ‘mercial buildings, hospital, airports and military instal- lation at remote locations. Fuel cells have efficiency levels ‘up to 550 as compared to as%b of conventional power plants. The emissions are significantly lower (CO2 and ‘water vapour being the ely emission). Fuel cell ystems are modular (je. additional capacity can be added when- ever required wit relative ease) and can be set up wher lever power is required, Constraint High initial cost is the biggest hurdle in the widespread commercialization of fuel cells. RENat RENat is the global renewable energy policy multi-stake- holder network that connects a wide range of Key actors ‘from: © Governments ‘© International organisations 0 + Indes atone + Sine rd academia al a hice ‘To facilitate knowledge exchange, policy development and Jan acton wars apd gol wnaon to renrae Cou. REN promote eval erry Yo mete sens of bth inne deg cunt i are driven by climate change, energy security, development saponin Rea isan ntertionsnon-groftassocistion and committed to the following objectives: ‘+ Providing policy-relevart information and research- ‘based analysis on renewable energy to decision makers, multipliers and the public to catalyse policy change + ering tr or nerston et a fates wnag fn te ecral enegy field worldwide and identifying barriers as well as woing obese ress te re ‘ak plore envi ery wert Conclusion Efficient use of renewable energy would reduce our depend- ‘ence on non-renewable sources of energy, make us energy self-sufficient and make our environment ceaner.As more green power sources are developed - displacing conven ‘onal generation - the overall environmental impacts as- sociated with electricity generation will be significantly reduced. POSSESS ‘AU Ripts eer No part of i ri maybe produced a any frm cy any mun, wit einen wing,Join Our Telegram Channel_http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY G0) 3/07) ENVIRONMENT ‘This peg eft be bane AR Res tf here ay be ered nay fom oy ay eas wattJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials "SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY Q2.0°~ 825 ENVIRONMENT! a>. O 6 CHAPTER -7 2 Qa dso fn 7A, INDIAN HIMALAYAN REGION GHR) - ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES ‘The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), which occupies Strategic position along the entire northern and north easter boundary ofthe country and administratively cov- 78 10 states in their entirety (Jammu & Kashi, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaraklvand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Naga- land, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Meghalaya) and two states partially (the hill districts of Assam and West Ben- ga), has wide ranging ecological and socio-economic sig. nificance THR Services ‘+ Besides innumerable goods, THR generates plethora of services not only fer Himalayan inhabitants but also influences the lives of people living well beyond its boundaries. ‘© Among other services, the region, with its large area under permanent snow cover and glaciers, forms a ‘unique water reservoir that feeds several Important perennial rivers. ‘With its vast green cover, IHR also acts asa giant car- bon ‘sink ‘+ IHR also forms a considerably large part of identified Himalayan Biodiversity global hotspot Role in Indian climate. ‘The region, however is facing environmental problems on account of various factors inchuding the stress caused by anthropogenic activities. Bven geologically the Himalayan ooeystem felis under the most vulnerable category. There- fore the environmental issues being faced by the IHR are ‘of critical importance ‘Managing the Himalayan ecosystem sustainably is critical ‘not only for preserving its pristine beauty and spectacular ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES" landscapes, but also for ensuring the ecological security of the entire Indian sub-continent. (A) URBANIZATION IN THE HIMALAYAS - IS IT. SUSTAINABLE? IMPACT - SOLID WASTE ‘The continued expansion in uibeu vellsmmat, influx of visitors, trekkers and mountaineers in the Himalayan re Bion has started to pose high bietic pressure and concom= itane indiscriminate solid waste dumping, As a result, the THR is getting adversely affected, In the absence of proper management practices and inad- equate infrastructural facilities, human induced pollution, such as solid waste, untreated sewage and local air pollution ‘due to vehicles has been continuously increasing in the IHR. IMPACT - TOWN PLANNING Rapid unplanned growth of hill towns, construction ac- tivities without a proper plan, general non-compliance with prescribed norms and guidelines, and indiscriminate use ‘of land for commercial outfit/tourist resorts have severely and adversely affected the fragile ecosystem of the Himia- lays. Large scale land instabilities, drying up of natural water ‘sources, waste disposal problems and changing socio- ‘cultural values are known impacts of unplanned construc- tion activities Deforestation activities - cutting in an area causes eco- logical damage and slope instability in adjacent areas. INITIATIVES Ban on Plastic in HP ‘State government enacted the Himachal Pradesh Non- Biodegradabie Garbage (Control) Act, 1995 in order to prevent throwing or depositing non- biodegradable gar- ‘Ris Rs Ne pra his a Be raed a x yay ace win Berm WERE Bae in publi rans, roads. aaJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials | shanacan as prey cae ie i mai ects oe sory Conservation ae nthe gon © The Naini Lake is the sole source of drinking water for rn Seuea aie jeri geal eee iaianenneee cnet lng abo tan opener Qe," ENVIRONMENT Urban Development through JNNURM. 4 “The aim i to encourage reforms and fast track planned development of identified cities. Focus is to be on cificency in urban infrastructure and service delivery ‘mechanisms, community participation, and accounta- bilicy of ULRs/ Parastatal agencies towards citizens" ‘+The duration of the mission is seven years starting from :2005-o60ith initially 13 towns. Recommendations / solutions for Solid Waste Management in JHR “The “development” inthe present context has become un- custainabl. An integrated approach is, therefore, neces sary to protect the environment and achieve requited ecoriomic development atthe same time. Advance planning based an timely and reliable data has become crucial for sustainable growth of hill towne. 1 Guidelines prohibiting indiscriminate disposal of gar~ bbage, particularly the non-degradable waste. 12 Preventive and management steps for soli waste man= ‘agement at the point of origin itself. 3 Documentation about the varying composition of waste from the hill towns to expedition tops, «4. Promotion of techniques such as conversion of biode- igradable waste into biocompost, or vermicompast in place of land filling, open dumping or burning. ‘5. The four “Rs principle’ - Refuse waste prone commod- ites, Reuse discarded commodities for other uses, Re diac through segregation inte categories—biodegradable and non-biodegradable 2t household individual level, and Re-cyeling ance fully used or completely unusable commodities/items. 6. Good quality potable water, available t various loca- ‘ons in hil towns so Unat people can fill their bottles, ‘om payment bass. ‘Awaveness and capacity building of the stakeholders. 8. Best international experiences & practices followed in regard to preservation of surroundings and prevention of littering in eco-sensitive places, [eg,, Alaska, Gan- ‘gtri/Leh region, Nepsl and China] should be examined and appropriately adopted. 9. Need support and innovative thinking on different 2s- pects, ranging from traditional architectural practices, local water management and diverse systems of sewage ‘and garbage management 1, There isa need to motivate residents to switch over to ‘a more scientific waste disposal system in a partcipa- tory manner. oRJoin Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY Recommendations / solutions - Hill Town Planning and Architectural Norms 4. Fragmentation of habitats in hill areas should be pre- vented. 2. Specific areas for rural/urban development showld be designated, 3 No construction should be undertaken which fall in hazard zones or areas falling an the spring lines and first order streams, 4+ Architectural and aesthetic norme for construetion of buildings in mountain/till areas should be enforced, 5. Deforestation activities shall ot be wndertaken un= less appropriate measures are taken to avoid such damages, 6. An integrated development play may be prepared tal ing into consideration enviroamental and other rele vant factors 7. In highly seismic areas like Himalaya, all construction should incorporate earthquake resistant features 8. Location-specific technologies should be deployed for ‘construction of buildings 9 “Green roads" having chanaels for collection of water for irrigation purposes should be made a part of the construction norm, (B) TOURISM - WILL IT BE REGULATED? Pilgrimage Tourism in Sensitive Areas ‘+ The Himalayas is known to bea home cf saints, desting- tion of pilgrimage since time immemorial + For example, Badrinath, Kedarrath, Gangotri= Yamu- ‘notri and Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand, Manima- hhesh, Jwala Devi, Chintpurai, Naina Devi in Himachal Pradesh and Vaishnay Devi anel Amarnath in jamin & Kashmir, Khecheopalr and other sacred lakes in Sikkim are particularly important destinations. * Unfortunately, most of these places lack adequate fa cilities of transport, accommodation, waste disposal and other amenities for the ever growing number of pile rims that vist them every year. * Also, there isa gross lack of regulatory mechanism for infrastructure creation, management, and for contral- Ting the touris: inflow in such sts "+ As arocult the sensitive ecosystems axl wullural values of these areas are facing pressures far beyond their carrying capacities oa ENVIRONMENT Impact - of Commercial Tourism ‘The impacts of tourism on mountain ecosystems and biological resources are of great concern because of the high biodiversity and environmental sensitivity of the Himalayas. * Cultural identities and diversity in mountain regions are also under thceat by the economic, social and envi= onmental forees associated with mountain tourism, ‘+ ln this contest, community based ecotourism emerges as one of the sustainable alternatives to the presently practiced commercial tourism in alteady over saturated hill towns like Nainital, Mussoorvie, Shima, Kullu- Manali, Gangtok, ete INITIATIVES BS Harnessing Rel ‘There is immense scope of harnessing tive religious senti- ‘ments of tourists in the right perspectives of conservation and sustainable management of natural resourees in the eco-sensitive Himalayan areas, This can be done through: (@, Encouraging them to undertake participatory planta- ‘on for rehabilitation of degraded areas eg. Badrivan, Initiative of GBPIHED in Uctarakband). (4) Promoting the concept of eco-cultural landscapes (eg, Demazong ~ Buddhist landscape, Sikkim, and Apatan eco-cultural landscape, Arunachal Pradesh). Both land= scapes are highly evolved with high level of economic and ecological efficiencies, Involving them in maintenance and strengthening of sacred groves/landscape (eg, Sacred Groves of Meghi- Jaya: The tribal communities ~ Khasis, Garos, and Jhintias, have a tradition of environmental conserva- tion based on religious belies and customary law and ‘are protected from any product extraction, Ladakh Himalayan Homestays- Transforming Local Mindsets towards Snow Leopards ‘The Himalayan Homestays programme fosters conser- vation-based community managed tourism develop- ‘ment in remote settlements, by gradually building local ‘capacity and ownership. ‘It stands out as an example that aims to be sensitive ‘© both host and visitor expectations without compr ising the aspirations of host communities, and at the same time seeks to balance these aspects with conservation ofthe area's unigue cultural and natural wi A gh Rear Np oh ater yeep ay ey heritage a iho parison aiJoin Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials Highlights of Sikkin’s Beocourism Policy ‘+ “Sikkim the Ulimate Tourist Destination” isthe palcy rmotio of the state. The state is employing a system of tnvironmental fees, and permits fr entries, and stay time restrictions in some environmentally sensitive high alticad/ pristine areas. + Operationalizaton of tourism in various modes, such 235 village tourism, nature tourism, wildife tourism, trekking/adventure tourism, and coltural toorisn in the state and nstitutioalization of torisin manage- ment atthe community level + Promotion and use of local art & craft, cuisines, etc, alongwith organizing tourism fairs and festivals ‘+ imparting training in tourism related service in- dastrieg ‘The efforts made by Sikkim can be a basis of responsible ‘ouriem in other Himalayan states. Adventure tourism Immense opportunities for adventure cum ecotourism in the Himalayan region (eg., Annapurna Conservation Area ‘project, Nepal; Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve ecotourism approach, Uttarakhand) could be harnessed through cam munity involvement. ‘Tourism + art and culture Linking of tourism with initiatives like Rural Business ‘Hubs (RBH), as introduced in North East region, which envisages promotion of quality rural products like band oom, handicrafts, agro products erbal products, biofuel, etc, may be considered as yet another aspect of promoting ‘eco-tourism in the IHR, Regulated entry "The Government f Uttarakhand has restricted the number ‘of tourist visiting the origin ofthe river Ganga ~ Gangotei area to 50 per day. Recommendations / solutions However, considering the sensitivity (both cultural and natural) of this region, strict operational guidelines are required to be enforced acress IHR with region specific provisions for facilitating and promoting community based ‘ecotourism. Recommendations / solutions ~ Regulating Tourism and Pilgrimage to Sensitive Areas 1. Pilgrimage tourism in the Himalaya requires both de- velopment and regulation so as to reduce congestion and resultant pollution WB. g SS ENVIRONMENT 2, Theaccommodation and road transport infrastructure needs to be developed in pilgrimage sites. 3. The pilgrimage courism is a kind of ‘economy class” tourism in the Indian Himalayan Region. Suitable ac- comimodation and other facilities need to be made available accordingly. ‘4. All existing sites should have adequate provision of ‘garbage disposal and management, 5. An inventory of historical, sensitive and sacred sites including sacred groves should be prepared and their vulnerability should be assessed 6, ‘The access to such sites of incomparable valve through vehicles needs to he restricted beyond a certain zone. Recommendations / solutions - Promoting Heotouriam and Regulation of Commercial Tourism 1. Eco-tourism villages, parks, sanctuaries and other areas should be identified to establish a primary base for ecotourism. 2 Village communities, especially youths, and rural women should be involved in Ecotouism, 23 Restrictions on the entry of vehicles and visitors per day/ per group should be imposed in sensitive ecologi- cal sites. 4. Local art, erafts, cuisines, and dishes should be pro- ‘moted and made an integral part of tourist experience {in order to ensure economic benefits tothe locals and their cultural integrity entity isnot lost. 5. Test practices on coramercial trekking should be im- posed on a mandatory basis 6. Creation of log/bamboo huts should be promoted in ‘busy mountain areas Recommendations / solutions for related segments Rejuvenation of Springs and Degraded Sites ‘+ Special attention should be paid to recharge of ground ‘water and quality of mountain lakesjwetlands through restoration of forests + Detailed geological mapping should be conducted to ‘dently the spring recharge zone ard locate geological structures. + Nuclear water prospecting technologies shouldbe used tomap the water sources and preveat the construction activites in such locations that could damage or ad- versely affect such sources. 4 Engineering measures to protect rechange zone from biotic interferences. TInigaa Rel No pur of ipa repo inay frm ory any Mens ADO Fermin Hw,Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials _ SHANKARIAS ACRDEMY ‘Social fencing measures, eg. () digging shatiow infiltration trenches, mulching. (Gi) conseructionofstone-mud check dams in gullies 1 store rainwater and check soil erosion; and (ii) and leveling, maintenance of erop field bunds to allow stagnation of rainwater should be en- hanced ‘+ Vegetative measures with the aim to enhance rainwater infiltration and reduce rainwater runoff. ‘+ Involvement of stakeholder community should be en- sured at every step of the Spring Sanctuary Develop- ‘ment, The maintenance and aftercare ofthe interven- tons have to be ensured through their involvement. Rain Water Harvesting + All buildings to be constructed in future in urban areas should have provision for roof-top rain water harvesting The institutional ard commercial buildings should not draw water from existing water supply scheraes which adversely affect water supply to loca villages or settle- ‘ments, ‘In rural areas rain water harvesting should be under taken through such structures as percolation tanks, storage tanks and any other means. ‘+ Spring sanctuary development should be undertaken in the spring recharge zones to augment spring water discharge. ‘+ Rain water collectedthrough storm water drains should bbe used to clean the waste disposal drains and sewers. + Ground water aquifer recharge structures shoul be constructed wherever such structures do not lead to slope instabilities. Ecologically Safer Roads * For construction of any road in the Himalayan region ‘of more than 5 km length where the same may not be tarred roads and environmental impact assessment is ‘otherwise not required, environmental impact assess ‘ment should be carried out in accordance With the in structions to be issied for this purpose by the State Governments * Provision should be made in the design of the read for treatment of bill slope instabilities resulting from read ‘cutting, cross drainage works and culverts using bio- ‘engineering and other appropriate techniques. '* Provisions should be made for disposal of debris from construction sites inappropriate manner at suitable and 0° ¢3 G77 ENVIRONMENT) ‘dentitied locations s0as not to affect the ecology of the area adversely urther, the dumped material should be treated using bio engineering and other appropriate techniques. ‘+ No stone quarrying should be carried out without proper management and treatment plan ineluding re- habilitation plan, * All ill roads should be provided with adequate number ‘of road side drains and these drains shall be kept free from blockage for runoff disposal; further, the erase drains shall be treated suitably using bio-engineering and other appropriate technologies so as to minimise slope instability. The runoif from the road side drains should be con- nected with the natural drainage system in the area ‘Fault zones and historically land slide prone zones should be avoided during alignment of a road, where for any reason itis not possible to do so, the construc tion should be carried out only after suficient measures have been taken to minimize the associated risks. ‘Ridge alignment should be preferred to valley align ment, ‘Alignment should be selected so as to minimise loss of vegetal cover * Encouragement should be provided for use of debris ‘material fr local development. 7.2 SAND MINING IN INDIA - ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES Sand isan important mineral for our society in protecting the environment, buffer against strong tidal waves and storm, habitat for crustacean species and marine organ isms, used for making concrete, filling roads, building sites, brick making, making glass, sandpapers, reclamations, and {n our tourism industry in beach attractions. Sand mining is the process of removal of sand and gravel where this practice is becoming an environmental issue as the demand for sand increases in industry and construction. Despite a Supreme Court order that prohibits sand mining vwithout the requisite clearance from the required author- ities and places limits on the quantities that can be mined, thousands of tonnes of sand is being illegally mined to ‘meet the rising demand of construction industry and for extraction of minerals. Let’ discuss about the scenario of sand mining in India ‘The environmental reasons for this ban and others across India are numerous, Sand acts.as an aquifer, and as a nat ps Reseed Nast f this mt ay be src nay rm Ba es. be eon ningJoin Our Telegram Channel http//t.me/UPSCMaterials "SHANKAR IRS ACRDEMY tural carpet on the bottom of the river. Stripping this layer leads to downstream erosion, causing changes in channel bbed and habtat type, as wells the deepening of rivers and estuaries, and the enlargement of river movths. As the river syste: lowers local groundwater is affected, which leads to water scarcities aggravating agriculture and local livelihoods. In tocms of legal measures, ground water shortages have been noted as the patent problem with river sand mining, Less considered in legal action, but centrally relevant, ex perts also note substantial habitat and ccologial problems, Which inclute "direct loss of streamn reserve habitat, dis turbanoes of species attached (o streambed deposits, re duced light enetration, reduced primary production, and reduced feeding opportunities” Economic consequences of sand mining ‘Revenue loss to the exchequer For eg Itis estimated that in Noida and Greater Noida alone th lass tothe exchecqier fs about Rs3,000 crore, ‘but the impact that sand mining, which is simply put theft on eavironiieat and ecology, cannot even be cal culated Environmental consequences of sand 1 Forcing the river to change its course Sand ard boulders prevent the river from changing the course end act asa buffer for the riverbed. 2, legally dredged sand is equivalent te robbing water. Sand holds 2 lot of water, and when itis mindlessly mined and laden on to trucks, large quantities of water is lost in transit 43. Depletion of groundwater tables Send, ot arivetbal it acts as. link between the owing river ara the water table and is part of the aquifer. For eg tlegal and excessive sand mining inthe river ‘bed ofthe Papagani cazchment area in Karnataka has Jel to the depletion of groundwater levels and environ: ‘mental degradation in the villages on the banks of the ‘ver inboth Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. 4. Adverstly impacting the habitat of m ‘There are a loc of micro-organisms that are not visible and wieely known, but are eriical to soil etructure and fertility. When sand is dredged, literally takes away their habitat 5, Increased river erosion When sand and boulders are removed in an unimpeded ing cva-organisms ta” 3 CS ENVIRONMENT ‘way using heavy machines, the erosion capacity of the Fiver increases. 6, Damage to roads and bridges For eg: In Vishnuprayag the boulders that came down with the river water damaged aside of the dam and the ‘waters spread out across causing heavy damage 7 Threat to agriculture For egg: Despite numerous probibitions and regula- tions, sand mining continues rapilly on the riverbed of the Bharathapurha in kerala. Water tables have dropped dramatically and a land once known for its plentiful ice harvest now faces scarcity of water n the villages ‘and towns around the river, groundwater levels have fallen drastically and wells are almost perennially dry. 18, Damage to gansta ecosystem “This destructiveillegal practice In beaches, creeks leads to erosion along, the shoreline. Bg: Kibim Beach off Alibaug, Shore levels have reduced, forcing residents to Duild walls to protect themselves from the sea. [wrecks the intertidal area and creates the imminent danger of saline water ingress into fresh water, Coastal sand mining destroys fisheries, disturbs coal, mangroves, wetlands and has led tothe near extinction of ghariyals. a crocodile species unique to India, ‘A major impact of beach sand mining is the loss of protection from storm surges associated with tropical cyclones and tsunamis. 9. Lasser availability of water for industrial, agricultural and drinking parposes 10, Loss of employment to farm workers, 18, Threat to livelihoods. ‘Current rules and policies in operation rel sand mining Kerala: Kerala Protection of River Banks and Regulation, ‘of Removal of Sand Act, 2001 Key features: To permit sand mining in select areas and ‘each selected area or Kadavu will be managed by a Kadava ‘Committee which will decide on matters such as quantum of mining to be permitted, and to mobilise local people to oversee these operations and ensure protection of rivers and riverbanks, Key rivers affected: Bharstapnzha, Kuttiyadi river, Achankovil, Pampa and Manimala, Periyar, Bhavani, Siru- vani, Thuthapozha, and Chitturpuzha, rivers inthe catch ‘ments of Ashtarnudi ane Vernbanad lakes ‘Tamil Nadu: Policy that ensures that quarrying of sand in Government poramboke lands and private patta lands will, to "Nis arc Nepean i ry ee wn perisnnwriiJoin Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY only be undertaken by the Government. Mechanised sand mining is prohibited. in 2008, this policy was counter- sanded by the government and private parties were given permits for mining, Rivers affected: Cauvery, Vaigai,Palar, Cheyyar, Araniyar ‘and Kosathalaiyar, Bhavani, Vellar,Vaigal Thamiraparani Kollidam. coastal districts of Nagapattinam, Tuticorin, Ramanatha-puram and Kanyakumari, hill regions of Salem and Erode districts, ‘Karnataka: The Uniform Sand Mining Policy does not allow sand mining in Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) area ‘and prohibits the use of machineries to mine sond from river. High Court of Karnataka banned mechanised boats for sand mining in the state from April 207. Brom September 2013, seeaeding ta Karnataka Minar Mineral Concession (Amenciment) Rules 2on,the respon ‘ibility of oversight of sand mining has been transferred to the Public Werks, Ports and Inland Water Transport Department. Rivers affected: Cauvery, Lakshmanateerta, Harengi, He~ rmavathi, Nethravatai, Papagant ‘Andhra Pradesh: In 2006, a new policy that allows only ‘manual labour and bullocks to mine sand in riverbeds. Bullock carts, mules and other animals would be exempted from any mining tax. Contractors will be alloted sand through open bidding by a committee headed by district joint collectors. Sand can be sold only if thas a maximum, retail price tag, otherwise there will be a penalty. Use of ppoclaines has been banned entirely, and mining will be disallowed below three metres. ivers affected: Godavari, Tungabhadra, Vamsadhara, Nagavali, Bahuda and Mahendratanaya Maharashtra: New policy, 20%o, tinder which it is compul- sory for contractors to obtain permission from the il ia a uti wa + catty pie arcs ecpeaean «esol senate areas 5 avallablty of water and eter eral infrastruc ture ike etry, ada with adequate width and copay Do you know? Government of India has established the National ‘Adaplation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) with ‘a budget provision of Rs aso erore for 2015-16 and 2016-17 to assist States and Union Territories to un- dectake projects and actions for adaptation to climate change. [Rigs eer No parton an my reproduc ay lesb any mans witout yornlnin wing 15Join Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials (SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY PROCEDURE FOR PUBLIC HEARING (@) Process of Public Hearing: - Whoever apply for environmental clearance of projects, shall submt to the concerned State Pollution Control Board, (2) Notice of Public Hearing: - 4. The State Pollution Control Board shall cause a notice for environmental public hearing which shall be pub- lished in at least two newspapers widely circulated ia the region around the project, one of which shall be in the vernacular language ofthe locality concerned, State Polluticn Control Board shall mention the date, time and place of public hearing. Suggestions, views, com- ‘ments and objections of the public shall be invited ‘within thirty days from the date of publication of the rotification. All poroons including bona fide residents, environmen- tal groups and others located atthe project sie/stes of displacement{sites likely to be affected can participate sn the public hearing. They can also make oral/written suggestions to the State Pollution Control Board, Do you know? _Human-induced emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) including those from the agriculture sector are con sidered tobe the drivers of observed climate change. ‘While annual total GHG emissions from agriculture {n 2010 are estimated to be of the onder of 10-12% of global anthropogenic emission, the research con- ducted by the government indicates that agriculture in India contributed to 1896 of the total emissions of ‘India in 2010. The gases emitted from this sector are ‘mainly methane (CH) and Nitrous Oxide (N20). (3) Composition of public hearing panel: - “The composition of Public Hearing Panel may consist ofthe following, namely: i. Représentative of State Pollution Control Board; fi. District Collector or his nominee; Representative of State Government desing with the subject: |v, Representative of Department ofthe State Govern- rmentdealing with Environment ¥. Not more than three representatives of the local bod: jes such as Municipalities or panchayats; Dg Bs ENVIRONMENT vi. Not more than three senior citizens ofthe area nom- inated by the District Collector. 8.5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT IN THE INDIAN SYSTEM ~ DRAWBACKS AND RECOMMENDATIONS DRAW BACKS. Applicability: 4. There are several projects with significant environmen tal impacts that are exempted from the notification either because they are not listed in schedules, or their investments are less than what is provided for in the notification, Composition of expert committees and standards: 1. Itis being found that the team formed for conducting, FIA studies is lacking the expertise in various fields such as environmentalists, wild life experts, Anthro- ppologists and Social Scientists (to study the social im- pact ofthe project) 2. There isa lack of exhaustive ecological and sacla-ecn- nomic indicators for impact assessment. Public hearing: 1. Pblic comments are not taken nto account atthe erty stage, which eften lead to confit a the later stage of ret clearance 2 Arnumber of projects with significant environmental and social impacts have been exclude rom te man ‘atory public hearing press. 3. The documents which the public are entitled to are seldom availabe on time 4 The data collectors donot py respect the indigenous knowledge of focal people. Quali 1. One of the bigest concerns with the enviconmental clearance process is related tothe quality of EIA report that are boing carried out. The reports are generally incomplete and provided with false data 2 BIA reports ignore several aspects vile carrying oot assessments and sgnifant information ie found to omited 3 Many BIA report are based on singe season data and are not adequate o determine whether environmental slearance shouldbe granted. All this aks the entire exercise contrary tite very intent. ‘ag ese Ropar ots mt maybe eproains nany fem yay aan wl perme hwJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials ‘SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY 4. As things stand today, itis the responsibility of the ‘project proponent to commission the preparation of the EIA for its project. The EIA is actually funded by an agency or individual whose primary interest is to pro- ccure clearance for the project proposed. There is litle chance that the final assessment presented is un biased, ‘even ifthe consultant may provide an unbiased assess- ment that is critical of the proposed project. Some times it is found that a consultancy which is working in the project area has no specialization in the con- ‘cerned subject, For evample forthe preparation of EIA report ofthe proposed cil exploration in coast of Orissa by the reliance group has been given tothe lif science Dept of Bechampur university which has no expertise fon the study of turtles and its life cycle. 5. The FIA document in itself is 90 bulky and technical, which makes it very difficult to decipher so as to aid in the decision making process. 6. ‘There are so many cases of fraudulent EIA studies Where erroneous data has been used, seme facts used for two totally different places etc. This is due to the lack of a centralized baseline data bank, where such data can be erosschecked. 7. ‘There is no accreditation of EIA consultants, therefore any such consultant with a track record of fraudulent cases cannot be held liable for discrepancies tis hard to imagine any consultant after being paid lakh of rue pees, preparing a report for the project proponents, indicating that che project is not viable. 8. In nearly every case, the consultants try to interpret and tailor the information looking for ways and means to provide their clionts with a ceport that gives ther their moneys worth. Monitoring, compliance and institutional arrangements: Do you know? India has also set up a National Adaptation Fund with an initial allocation of INR 3.500 millon (USD 55.5 rillion) to combat the adaptation needs in key sectors ‘This fund will assist national and state level activities to meet the cost of adaptation measures in areas that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. 1. Often, and more so for strategic industries such as ‘nuclear energy projected, the EMPs are kept confiden- tal for political and administrative reasons BD s 2. Detals regarding the effectiveness and implementation. ‘of mitigation measures are often not provided. 3. Emergency preparedness plans are not discussed in ‘sufficient details and the information not disseminated to the communities. RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Independent BIA Authority ‘Sector wide EIA s needed Creation of an information desk (Creation of a centralized baseline data bank Dissemination of all information related to projects from notification to clearance to local communities and ‘general public Applicability: 1 All those projects where there i likely to be a signif- ‘cant alternation of ecosystems need to go through the process of environmental clearance, without exception. 2. No industrial developmental activity should be permit ted in ecologically sensitive areas Public hearing: 1. Public hearings should be applicable to all hitherto ex- ‘empt categories of projects which have environmental impacts. Quality: 1. The focus of EIA needs to shift from utilization and ‘exploitation of natural resources to conservation of natural resources. 2, At present EIA reports are extremely weak when it comes to assessment of biological diversity of a project area and the consequent impacts on it. This gap needs tobe piogped through a specific guidelines and through necessary amendments biodiversity, biodiversity related traditional knowledge and live hoods. 4. AILEIA reports should clearly state what are the ad- verse impacts that a propesed projects will have. This should be a separate chapter and not hidden within technical details. 5. The sub components or subsidiary reports of EIA re- ports (eg, Assessments of Biodiversity impacts done by ‘ sub consultant) should be made publicly accessible as stand alone reports with the EIA. This should be avail able on the websites of the MOEF. “regs er No pt os wal ay epee aay am ary ny eas wk! pm nrgJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials | SHewieR IRS ACADEMY 6, ElAs should be based on full studies carried out over _at Teast one year. Single season data on environmental ‘parameters like biodiversity, as is being done for sev- eral rapid assessments is not adequate to gain under- standing of the full impact ofthe propased project 1. Itiscitcal thatthe preparation of an EIA is completely ‘ndepencent ofthe project aropanent. One option for this ‘ould be the creation ofa central fund forthe Bias which contains fees deposited by project proponents wile seek- 1g that an EIA be done for their proposed project. 8, State and central governments should maintain alist ‘of credible, independent and competent agencies that ‘can carry out EIAs. similely the EIA consultant those ‘are making false reports should be blac listed, 9. A national level accreditation to environment consul tancy should be adopted Do you know? ‘National Clean Development Mechanism Authority (NCDMA) was established in December 2003 for xe- cording Host Country Approval (HCA) to the CDM projects, Grant of clearance: 1. The notifcation needs to make it clear that the provi- sion for site clearance does not imply any comraitment on the part of the impact Assessment agency to grant full environmental clearance, 2. The prior informed consent of local communities and urban wards ar residents association needs to be made ‘mandatory before the grant of environmental clear~ ance. The consent should be from the full general body. 3 The language used for spsifying conditions of elear- ance must be clear and specific. Composition of expert committees: 1. The present executive committees should be replaced. by expert's people from various stakeholder groups, ‘who are reputed in environmental and other relevant fields. 2, The process of selection afthose committees should be ‘open and transparent. The minutes, decisions and ad- vice by these committe should be open ta public. ‘Monitoring, compliance and institutional arrangements: 41 The BIA notification needs to build within it an auto- ‘matic withdrawal of clearance ifthe conditions of clear= ance are being violated, and introduce more stringent 20° (5 ENVIRONMENT ‘punishment for non- compliance. At present the BIA ‘notification Limits itself to the stage when environmen tal dearance is granted. 2, The MOEF should set up more regional offices with advisory Expert commnities, each with smaller areas of jurisdiction, to effectively monitor the compliance of clearance conditions 3. Arobust monitoring mechanism should be established by the state department to address compliance of both sets of clearance conditions together and to take puri ‘tive action against the project proponent in case of non 4 Local communities should be brought in to the formal ‘monitoring and reporting process of the compliance of ‘conditions presently done hy the regional offices of the MOE. Redressal: 1. ‘The composition of the NGT needs to be changed to {include more judicial from the field of environment. 2. Citizen should be able to access the authority for re- essal of ll violation ofthe EIA notification as well as issues relating to non-compliance. Capacity building: NGOs, civil society groups and local communities need to build their capacities to use the EIA notification towards better decision making on projects that can impact their local environments and live hoods. Capacities can be built to proactively and effectively use the notification rather than respond in a manner that is seen as negative or un- productive List of Environmentally Sensitive Places Religious and historic places + Archaeological monuments/sites © Scenic areas ll resorts/mountains/ hills Beach resorts Health resorts ‘© Coastal areas rich in corals, mangroves, breeding ‘rounds of specific species + Estuaries rich in mangroves, breeding ground of spe- cific species * Culfareas ‘© Biosphere reserves, ‘+ National park and wildlife sanctuaries [IGN esr No prt enc trl yhewdirdnony hem yny mane at prinJoin Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials «Natural lakes, swamps Seismic zones tribal Settlements Areas of scientific and geological interests ‘Defense installations, specially these of security impor~ tance and sensitive to pollution ‘+ Border areas (international) Airport ‘+ Tiger reserves/clephant recerve/turtle nestling grounds ‘Habitat for migratory birds Lakes, reservoirs, dams ‘+ Streams/rivers/estuary/seas ‘+ Railway ines + Highways Urban agglomeration Do you know? ‘The criteria followed for specification of a community ‘ag a Scheduled Tribe are () indications of primitive traits, i distinctive culture, (i) geographical isola- tion, (iv) shyness of contact with the community at large, and (9) backwardness. ENVIRONMENT SUPPLEMENT PLAN (ESP) ‘+ An Environmental Supplemental Plan (ESP) is an envi- ronmentally beneficial project or activity that is not required by law, but that an alleged violator of Envi ronmental Lmpact Assessment Notification, 2006 agrees to undertake as part of the process of environmental clearance. ‘+ “Environmentally beneficial? mesns an Environmental Supplemental Plan rust remediate, improve, protect the environment or reduce risks o public health or the environment. Proposals under ESP ‘* ESP would allow violator companies to continue their ‘activities by paying a financial penalty. © This would then be invested in an “environmentally beneficial project or activity” for an affected target ‘group of stakeholders, Positives ‘¢ Many developmental projects have been currently been stalled to non-compliance with EIA regime or for pre- paring an improper EIA. ESP would enable reviving ‘hese projects. The “Bad Loans" issue currently plaguing the Banking sector can be substantially resolved through ceviving, ‘the stalled projects. Negatives: ‘= ESPs aclever attempt to legalize BIA violation and gain corporate confidence, thereby allowing violator to dam- age the environment and circumvent the EIA process. ‘= Among all cases filed in the National Green Tribunal (NGM), around 4396 are cases where the NOT found faults with an EIA assessment. Thus, EIA violation i 2 major in developmental projects. Allowing such vola- tors to carry on, defeats the ultimate purpose of EIA. ‘+ Many experts argue that this indirectly allows pardon- ing of violations. Rather than building upon the “Pol- luters Pay Principle’, the BSP looks like an attempt 10 promote corporate development by using a contradic- tory “Pay and Poliute” principle. © MoEFCC stated the notification has legal basis in two judgments, one by the NGT and the other by the Jharkhand High Court. But neither of the two judgments condones ELA violations to be regularized ost facto nor does it prescribe a way out of these for violators. ‘+ Valuation of environmental los cannot be just compen- sated by pecuniary payment by the violator. ‘+ Whether the fine amount sould be collected property and utilized for restoration is doubtful. No mechanism thas been proposed to utilize the collected funds. + ESP provides an escape mechanism to violators Instead of following the path of an EIA clearance, they can get away by paying a penalty through specific investment activites. PARIVESH (Pro-Active and Responsive facilitation by Interactive, Virtuous and Environmental Single-window Hub) © PARIVESH isa Single-Window Integrated Environmen- tal Management System. Key features include single registration and single sign-in forall types of clearances (Ge. Environment, Forest, Widife and CRZ},uniqueD {or all types of clearances required fora particular pro- ject and a single Window interface for the proponent 10 submit applications for geting all types of clearances (ie. Environment, Forests, Wildlife and CRZ. clear- ance) Pesos ‘Niwas Reseed pr of aril ay De ead a for Fy any mens, wo person wRJoin Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials ‘This page left tobe blank =» ALA Rowe area yb ym ry yen won rina nwngJoin Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials Se fe PART - Il |Join Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials | SHANKERIRSREADEMY GZ) 0% 5 7) ENVIRONMENT “This age left tobe Banke = “ah eed eo syd ns Wye Wa ROEJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials 0° yy ENVIRONMENT. “sHankarinsacanemy G7. a> CHAPTER -9 3 QB Jodiversity found on Earth today consists of many rllions of distinct biological species, the product of four billion years of evolution. Biodiversity is the variety of lfe on Earth, it includes all organisms, species, and populations; the genetic variation among these; and their complex assemblages of communities and ecosystems. Iealso refers tothe interrelatedness of genes, species, and ‘ecosystems and in turn, their interactions ith the envi ronment. This is life, This is Biodiversity. 9.1, BIODIVERSITY Biodiversity is defined as the variability among living or~ {ganisms from all source, including terrestrial, marine and ‘other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are a part; this inches diversity within spe ies, between species and of ecosystems - United Nations Earth Summit (1992) a Do you know? cues hk ‘Sea snakes are very poisonous. The most poisonous ‘one is the Beaded Se 3 drops of venom can Kill about 8 people! Their other methods of defense include to spray a stinky, musky liquid orto poop. Eew! Conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity is funda~ ‘mental to ecologically sustainable development. Biodiver~ sity is part of our daily lives and livelihood, and constitutes, resources upon which families, communities, nations and future generations depend. 9.11, Levels of Biodiversity ‘Blodiversty is considered to exist at three levels: genetics, species, and ecosystems, (a) Genetic diversity: ‘© Ibis concerned with the variation in genes within a particular species. ‘= Gonetie diversity allows species to adapt to changing ‘environments, Liversity aims to ensure that some species sur- vive drastic changes and thus carry on desirable genes. ‘+The survival of individuals ensures the survival of ‘he population “+ The genetic diversity gives us beautiful butterflies, roses, parakeets ot coral in a myriad hues, shapes and sizes (Species diversi 4 Ierefers to the variety of living organisms on earth. ‘+ Species differ from one another, markeuly in their igenetic makeup, do not inter-breed in nature. ‘+ Closely-related species however have in common. ‘much of their hereditary characteristics. For in- stance, about 98.4 per cent of the genes of humans ‘and chimpanzees are the same, + It is the ratio of one species population over total ‘numberof organisms across all species in the given biome. ‘© "Zero! would be infinite diversity, and ‘one! repre- sente only one species present (© Ecosystem/ Community diversity: This refers tothe different types of habitats. A habi~ tats the cumulative factor ofthe climate, vegetation. and geography of 2 regio. ‘+ Thereare several kinds of habitats around the world. Corals, grasslands, wetland, desert, mangrove and tropical rain forests are examples of ecosystems. “Rigs torso op a sma yh epider nTJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials ‘* Change in climatic conditions is accompanied by a change in vegetation as wel. Each species adapts if to a particular kind of environment. * As the environment changes, species best adapted to that environment becomes predominant. Thus the variety or diversity of species in the ecosystem is influenced by the nature ofthe ecosystem Doyou know? ‘The most dangerous sharks are the Great White shark, the Tiger shark, the Hammerhead shark, the Mako ‘shark and the Bull shark. On average, there are only about so shark attacks each year and only 10 of those result in a buman death, People kill thousands of sharks ina year for sport and for food, Shark skins are ‘used to make leather products. Until the 19ga s, shark livers were used asa vitamin A supplement, Shark fin ‘soup and shark steaks are both eaten in many coun- tries. So. who’ the dangerous predator? 9.1.2. Measurement of Biodiversity Biodiversity is measured by two major components 4. species richness, and fi, species evenness. ( Species richness Its the measure of number of species found in a com- ‘munity 2) Alpha diversity Itrefers to the diversity within a particular area or ecosys- tem, and is usualy expressed by the number of species (ie, species richness) in that ecosystem. by Beta diversity Its a comparison of diversity between ecosystems, usually ‘measured as the change in amount of species between the ecosystems 0 Garima diversity [tis a measure of the overall diversity for the differeat ‘ecosyscems within a region, Gi) Species evenness Iemeasures the proportion of species ata given ste, eg low evenness indicates that a few species dominate the site Do _ ENVIRONMENT 9.13. Biodiversity and Food Web ‘The building blocks of plants, animals and humans are dential, and are made ofthe four elements - carbon, oxy- gen, nitrogen and hydrogen. ‘These elements are present in the environment - in air, water and soil. However, only green plants can absor’ niteogen from the sil through their roots, and use sunlight and water to produce energy by a process called photosyn- thesis. They are known as producers, Animals and humans, who have plants or other animals as their food, are known as consumers. The chain that Jinks consumers to producers is called the food chain or web, Every living creature is found in a food chain, There are several food chains and they can be complex or simple depending on the environment, ‘To cite some examples, grasshoppers eat grass and are in turn eaten by frogs; snakes eat frogs and rodents, ‘Thus the importance ofeach and every creature in the web ‘of lfe is evident. Tampering with the food chain only pro- duces negative results, leading to the destruction of the species. [Bvery time a species becomes extinct, the chain is broken ‘and many species, including humans, move claser to ex- tinction. 9.1.4. Services provided by Biodiversity: Biodiversity provides a number of natural services for human beings: (@) Ecosystem services © Protection of water resources + Soils formation and protection ‘+ Nutrient storage and recycling + Pollution breakdown and absorption * Contribution to climate stabi Maintenance of ecosystems Recovery from unpredictable events (©) Biological services = Food ‘+ Medicinal resources and pharmaceutical drugs ‘+ Wood products + Ornamental plants ‘+ Beweding stocks ‘+ Diversity in genes, species and ecosystems ‘Res Reser, No pat of ister ay be eras ny rr yay a a pronJoin Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IAS ACROEMY © Social services © Research, education and monitoring ‘Recreation and tourism ‘© Cultural values 9:15. Causes for Biodiversity Loss Loss of biodiversity occurs wien either a particular species is destrayed or the habitat essential for its survival is damn- aged. The latter is more common as habitat destruction is inevitable fallout of development. The extinetion of species takes place when they are ex pleted for economic gain or hunted as sport or for food. Extinction of species may also ovcur due to environmental reasons like ecological substitutions, biological factors ancl pathological causes which can be caused either by nature (@) Natural causes © floods, + earthquakes, landslides, ‘rivalry among species, ‘© lack of pollination and diseases, (b) Man-Made causes ‘© Habitat destruction ‘© Uncontrolled commercial exploitation, ‘+ Hunting & poaching © Conversion of rich bio-diversity site for buman set Hement and industrial development © Extension of agriculture * Pollution ‘© Filing up of wetlands ‘© Destruction of coastal areas . Biodiversity conservation De you know? Nt al snakes have fangs. Only the poisonous ones do, Fangs are sharp, long, hollow teeth that are hooked up to small sacs in the snake's head behind their eyes. These sacs produce a poisonous Niquid | called venom. When a snake bites, venom is released and starts to work immediately to kill or paralyze the prey. QBs WO ENVIRONMENT Conservation of biological diversity leads to conservation of essential ecological diversity and preserve the continuity ‘of fod chains 9:17. Modes of Conservation (@) Exsitu conservation: Conserving biodiversity outside the areas where they naturally oceur Is known as ex- situ conservation, ‘+ Here, animals are reared or plants ae cultivated like ‘zoological parks or botanical gardens. Reintroduc- tion of an animal or plant into the habitat from where it has become extinct is another form of ex seu conservation + For example, the Gangetic gharial has beet. reintro- duced in the rivers of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan where it had becom: extinct # Seed banis, botanical, horticultural and reeeational gardens are important centres for ex-situ conserva- tion, (B) Ta-situ conservation: Conserving the animals and plants in their natural habitats is known zs in-situ ‘conservation, The established natural habitats are: ‘National parks ‘© Sanctuaries ‘+ Biosphere reserves and “© Reserved forests + Protected forests Constraints in biodiversity conservation ing natural re- © Low priority for conservation of + Exploitation of living natural resources for monetary gain. Values and knowledge about the species ancl ecosystem are inadequate. ‘© Unplanned urbanization and uncontrolled industraliza- tion, 91.8. Botanical garden Botanical garden refers to the scientifically planned collec- tion of living trees, shrubs, herbs, climbers and other plants fram various parts of the word Purpose of botanical gardens 1. To study the taxonomy as well as growth of plants. 2. To study the introduction and acclimatization process [igs ere orf ic mie ay te pedis aay Fay sans tes penis owen of exotic plants.Join Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials 3. Teacts as a germplasm collection 4 Ithelps development of new hybrid. 5. Teaugments conservirg rare and threatened species. 9.1.9. 200 Zoo is an establishment, whether stationary or mobile, ‘where captive animals arekept for exhibition tothe public and includes a circus and rescue centers but does not in- clude an establishment ofa licensed dealer in captive ani- mals -CZA, ‘The initial purpose of zoos was entertainment, over the \ecales, z00s have got transformed into centres fr wildlife conservation and environmental education. ‘Apart from saving individval animals, 2008 have a role to play in species conservation too (through captive breeding). ‘Do you know? ‘Two species of bear which have special feet are polar bear and the giant panda, The polar bear has partially ‘webbed toes for swimming and walking on snow 2s. ‘well as Furry bottoms to keep its feet warm on the ie, Giant pandas do not have a heel pad so they walk ‘more on their toes, 9.2. THE RED DATA BOOK Species judged as threatened are listed by various agencies as well as by some private organizations: The most cited ‘ofthese lists is the Red Dara Book Its a looseeaf volume of information on the status of, ‘many kinds of species. This volume i continually updated and is issued by the International Union for Conservation ‘of Nature (TUCN) located in Morges, Switzerland “Red! of courseis symbolicof danger thatthe species both plants and animals presertly experience throughout the elobe, “The Red Data Book was first issued in 1966 by the IUCN’s Special Survival Commission as a guide for formlation, preservation and management of species listed In this Book, information for endangered memmals and beds are more extensive than for other groups of animals ‘and plants, coverage is also given to less prominent organ- isms facing extinction, ‘The pink pages inthis pustication include the ertcally fendangered species. As the status of the species changes, ew pages are sent to the subscribers. Green pages are used for those species that were formerly endangered, but have now recovered to point where they. are no longer threatened, With passing time, the number’ ‘of pink pages continue to increase, There are pitifully few: green pages, 9.2. TUCN CLASSIFICATION OF CONSERVATION, PRIORITY 9.24. Extinct (EX) ‘A taxon is Entinct when there ig no reasonable doubt that the last individual has died. A taxon is presume Extinct when exhaustive surveys in known and/or expected habitat, at appropriate times (diurnal, seasonal, annual), throughout its historic range have failed torecord an individval, 9.2.2. Extinct in the Wild (EW) ‘A taxon is Extinct in the Wild when it is knowa only to survive in cultivation, in captivty or as a naturalized pop- ‘gh Reserve. No ro hierar may bs eroded nn om yD, wt mon ownJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials ‘SHANKAR IRS FICROEMY ulation (or populations) well outside the past range. A taxon is presumed Extinet in the wild when exhaustive surveys in known and/or expected habitat, a appropriate times (@iurnal, seasonal, annual, throughout its historic range have failed to record an individual, 9.23. Critically Endangered (CR) ‘taxon is Critically Endangered when the best available ‘evidence indicates that itmeets any ofthe criteria for Crit ically Endangered. criteria «reduction in popultion ( 90% over the last 10 years), + population size (ournber less then go mature ind- widals), ‘quantitative analysis showing the probability ofextinc tion in wid in atleast 5p in their 10 years) and ‘itis therefore considered tobe facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild PIT VIPERS ‘The ‘pit’ is a special organ in between the eyes and the nostrils. The pt senses body heat from animals and ives the snake a ‘picture’ of that animal, The snake can then attack it. This helps these snakes o find prey in the dark. ‘Some pit vipers will bite and poison the prey and then ‘release it. It will follow the dying animal, using its ‘heat sensors, until it stops and the snake can swallow ‘it, Most pit vipers hunt at night when the air is cooler ‘and the heat from rodents and other prey is most ‘obvious to them, All rattlesnakes are Pit Vipers. 9.2.4. Endangered (EN) A taxon Is Endangered when the best available evidence ‘indicates that it meets any ofthe criteria for Endangered. criteria ‘© reduction in population size (70% over the last 10 years), ‘+ population size estimated to mumaber fewer than 250, ‘mature individuals, ‘© quantitative analysis showing the probability of extine- ton in wild in at least 20% within zo years and Qe S25 ENVIRONMENT ‘+ tis therefore considered to be facing a very high risk. of extinction in the wild. 9.2.5. Vulnerable (VU) ‘A taxon is Vulnerable when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any ofthe erteria for Vulnerable Le. criteria ‘+ reduction in population (> 50% over the last 10 years) + population size estimate to mumber fewer than 10,000 mature individuals, + probability of extinction in wild is at least 10% within 100 years, and «tis therefore considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wid 9.2.6. Near Threatened (NT) ‘A taxon is Near Threatened when it has been evaluated ‘gainst the criteria but does not qualify for Criiclly En- angered, Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is dose to «qualifying fr o is Hkely to qualify fora threatened cate- gory in the near future 9-27, Least Concern (LC) ‘A taxon [s Least Concern when it has been evaluated ‘against the criteria and does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable or Near Threat ‘ened. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category. ‘9.2.8. Data Deficient (DD) ‘Ataxon is Data Deficient when there is inadequate infor- ‘mation to make a diect, or indirect, assessment ofits rise ‘of extinction based on its distribution and/or population status. A taxon inthis category may be well studied, and ics biology wel known, but appropriate data on abundance and/or distribution are lacking, Data Deficient is therefore not a category of threat: Listing of taxa in this eategory indicates that more information is required and acknowiedges the possibility that future research will show that threatened classification is ap- propriate, 9.2.9. Not Evaluated (NE) ‘A taxon is Not Evaluated when itis has not yet been evalu- ated against the criteria. SHS TSS Ai igi Reeve No ph ator mayb reproduc! nan om oy ay ae wot erin owingJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials CSHANKARIRBRCROEMY G9)" 93.025 ENVIRONMENT. ‘Thiepage et oe ane Ep allig Reweve. No pr mara ny be eran any nm Fy ay ean who aon awe.Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials ‘gs his tris, rich in biodiversity and associated traditional Knowledge. With just 2.4% of the land area, India ac- counts for nearly 7% ofthe recorded species even while supporting almost 18% of human population. Tnterms of species richness, Ina ranks seventh in mam rmals ninth i birds and fifth in reptiles. “The varied Edaphic, Climatic and Topographic conditions have resulted in a wide range of ecosystems and habi- tats such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, coastal and marine ecosystems, and deserts in India with greater bio- diversity. I dia isa recognised as one of the mega-diverse coun- Do you know? ‘The spider's body has an oil on it to keep the spider free from sticking to it's own web. 104. INDIA REPRESENTS: a) ‘TwoReelms BD) Five Biomes,, © Ten Bio-gébgraphic Zones. 6) ‘Twenty five Bio-geographic provinces a) Realms: Biogeographic realms are large spatial regions within ‘which ecosystems share a broadly similar biota. Realm is ‘a continent or sub continent sized area with unifying fea- ‘ures of geography and fauna & flora. ___ INDIAN BIODIVERSITY DIVERS ‘LANDSCAPE QO, 0°@ Ss ENVIRONMENT | BS CHAPTER - 10 W SoG Fanaa ‘The Indian region is composed of two realms. They are: 4) the Himalayan region represented by Palearctic Realm 2}. the rest ofthe sub-continent reresented by Malayan Eight terrestrial biogeographic realms are recognized. Nearetic realm 3. Palearctic realm Africotropical realm {Indo-Malayan realm Ocenaia realm ‘Australian realm Antarctic realm Neotropical realm ‘Nig Reserved part of Wi oer mayb repro i ry rm ory yan, wit em rigJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials | SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY b) Biomes of India: Te tem bone ears he main groups plas ad nial ving in reat certain cliate pcr ides the ayn wich anal epaesdoal iret eer: The plant and nina ng che tres ar alla tht entonment The eb o ina 2) Tepe Humid Fores 2) Top ry or Deis Fret cig Monson he 3) Warm deserts and semi-deserts 4) Coniferous forests and 3 Aine meadow ©) Bio-geographic Zones: io-geonraphic Zones India Biogeography deals with the geographical distribution of plants and animals, There are 10 biogeographic ‘ones which are distinguished clearly in India, They are as allows 1) Trans-Himalayas. An extension ofthe Tibetan plateau, harboring high-altitude cold desert in Laddakh (8K) and Lahaul Spiti (HLP) comprising 5:7 99 ofthe coun- ‘ry’ landmass. 2) Himalayas. The entire mountain chain running from north-western to northeastern India, comprising a di- verse range of biotic provinces and biomes, 72 90 of the country’s landmass, 3) Desert. The extremely arid area west of the Aravali bill range, comprising both the salty desert of Gujarat ‘and the sand desert of Rajasthan. 6.5% ofthe countrys landmass, SB > Gm ENVIRONMENT 4) Sembarid. The zone between the desert and the Dec~ can plateau, inciuding the Aravalli hill range. 15.6 96 of te country’s landmass. 5) Western ghats. The hill ranges and plains running: along the western cosstline, south of the Tapti river, covering an extremely diverse range of biotic provinces and biomes 5.8% of the country’s landmass, 5) Deccan peninsula. The largest of the zones, covering. ‘ouch of the southern and southeentral plateau with 2 predominantly deciduous vegetation. 4.3 9% of the ‘country’s landmass. 7). Gargetic plain, Defined by the Ganges river system, these plains are relatively homogenous. 1:9 of the ‘country’s landmass. 8) North-east India. The plains and non-timalayan hill ranges of northeastern India, with a wide variation of ‘vegetation. 5.2% of the country’s landmass. 9) Islands. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay cof Bengal, with 2 highly diverse sot of biomes. 0.039 of the country's landmass. 10) Coasts. large coastline distributed both to the west and east, with distinct differences between the twes Lakshadeep islands ase included inthis with the per- cent area being negligible Biogeography is divided into branches: ji, Phyto-xeography (plant geography) deals with origin, distribution and environmental intersela- tionships of plants ji, Zoogeography deals with the migration and distri Dution of animals, & Bio-geographic provinces. Bio-geographic Province is a ecosystematic or biotic subd vision of realms. India is divided into a5 bio geographic ones, Biogeographic classification of India was done by Rodgers and Panwar (-988), describing 10 biogeo- graphic zones in india, further divided into 25 biogeo- [Braphic provinces. The dlassifiation was done using various factors such as akitude, moisture, topography, rainfall, etc. Biogeographic zones were used as a basis for planning wildlife protected areas in India, ‘ARs Hove No ot oth mel ay he prada rm ar yay ar, wi pa awJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials 9° S25 ENVIRONMENT. >) [Jie Gangetic] arcane Plain Upper pepe nee Plains Gangetic Pains The National Highwvaye Authoriyof India (NHAD as Pomeieae iar agreed 10 construct a fourth wnderpass for animals Gener ‘on nstional highway 6 (NH-6) between Sakoli and Dori near the Nagzira Tiger Reserve (TR). aoa.a. Biogeographic zones and Biogeographic | TheCoasts | 8A: Coasts - West Coast ‘8B: Coasts - Bast Ceast AC: Coasts Laksheweep Teton ~Est-Biah= ivi da ; ee Se: Biogeographic | Whpeosrapic North Fast Nota Zones (10 nas) Provinces (25 nos) East Hills 1 ‘Trans Himalaya | 1A:Himalaya Ladakh 1. | Islands: 0A; Islands - Andamans Mounrains 1B: Himalaya Tibetan Plateau sC: Trans - Himalaya Sikkim 108: Islands ~ Nicotars Do you know? | The Himalaya Himalaya ‘2AHlimalaya - North West ‘Wrinkles help elephants keep their body temperature Himazaya 2B: Himalaya - West ‘down, Wrinkles increase the surface area, co that ‘more skin becomes wet when the animal bathes. All ‘the eracks and crevices trap moisture, which then takes much longer to evaporate. A wrinkly elephant keeps cooler for longer than it would with smooth _DsAlimalaya ~ Bast skia. Biniaaya 3 | Thetndian | 3A: Desert - Thar Desert 2B: Dasert ~ Katchchhy 10.2. FAUNA. | The Semi Arid “4Az Semi Arid - Punjab Plains 6 Decean Peninsular - stern Highlands 6D: Deccan Peninsular Central Plateau 68: Deccan Peninsular ~ Deccan South “4B: Semi - Arid - Gujarat Rajputana, S| The Western | sAMistern Ghats- Ghats Malabar Plains verte sBiWestern Ghats Western an Ghats Mouncains [ rensans 6 |The Devan | 6A: Deccan Peninsular ~ [tres Peninsula ‘central Highlands cS. 68: Deccan Peninsular ~ Cheeta Nagpur Do you know? Eels are sometimes mistaken for Sea Snakes. els are part of the fish family and have gills for breathing. Sea snakes do not have gills but lungs instead and need to goto the surface for ain)Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY Dg AB ENVIRONMENT 10.24, Vertebrates Reptiles Vertebrates are animals with backbones and spinal col» Cold blooded ‘umns. Vertebrates are the most advanced organisms on Earth, Although vertebrates represent only a very small * Have scales Percentage ofall animals, their size and mobility often Have dry skin allow them to dominate their environinent. + Usually lay eggs Vertebrates Animals with bockbones ats Reptile Mommels » * Barholes instead of ears ‘+ glegs or no legs Aves ‘+ Warm blooded (© Hlave feathers and wings + Laycees ‘© Have alegs ‘+ ar holes instead of ears ‘Mammals + Warm blooded ‘¢ Haye hair o fur ‘© Give birth to live young ones ‘© Mammal mother nurse their yung one with milk Breathe with lungs ‘+ Mammals live on land have 4 legs (or 2 legs & 2 arms), and ears that stick out. Fishes © Cold blooded ‘+ Live in water ‘+ Breathe under water using gills, not langs © Have scales and fins * Lay eggs, ‘Amphibians '* Cold blooded * Liveon land & water + Webbed feet Breathe with tungs and gills Moist smooth skin ‘Four legs (sometimes none) + Layeggs Do you know? ‘Elephants! ears act as cooling devices They can meas- lure upto square metres and they are equipped with an intricate web of blood vessels. When the animal flaps its ears, the blood temperature lowers by as much as §°C. 10.2.2. Invertebrates Invertebrates do not have backbones. More than 98% ani- ‘mal species in the world are invertebrates. Invertebrates don't have an internal skeleton mage of bane. Many inver= tebrates have a fluid-filled, hydrostatic skeleton, like the jellyfish or worm. Others have a hard outer shel, ike i sects and crustaceans A hs Reser No a i ae may Bereta yyy son ht prJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY Invertebrates Animals without backbones DB -Annelids ‘+ Annelids have bodies that are divided into segments, They have very well-developed internal organs. ‘+ Found almost anywhere in the worl. ‘© They don't have any limbs. Bg: earthworms, keches, roundworms, et, Mollusks 4 Most mollusks have a soft, skin-ike organ covered with ahard outside shell. ‘© Some mollusks live on land, such asthe snail and slug ‘+ Other mollusks live in water, such as the oyster, mussel, clam, squid and octopus. Echinoderms ‘© Echinoderms are marine animals that live in the ocean. ‘© Most echinoderms have arms or spines that radiate from the center of their body. ‘+ Common echinoderms include the sea stay, sea urchin, sand dollar and sea cucumber. Protozoa ‘© Protozoa are simple, single-celled animals. ‘© ‘They are the smallest of all animals. ‘+ Most protozoa are microscopic. ENVIRONMENT + They do breathe, move and reproduce like multicelled animals. + Bg: amoebas, Flagellatesete. Arthropods Arthropods have limbs with joints that allow them to ‘© They also have an exoskeleton, which is a hard, external skeleton. ‘+ Arthropods include the crustaceans and insect, arach- aids Crustaceans ‘ve mostly in the ocean or other waters. ‘+ Crustaceans have a hard, external shell which protects their body ‘Most commonly known crustaceans are the crab, lob- ster and barnace Insects ‘© Insects have an exoskeleton that covers their entire boat. ‘© An insect’s consists of 3 body parts and 6 legs and a antennae 1+ Eg: beetle, butterfly, moth, dragonfly, bee, wasp and praying mantis, ‘Arachnids ‘© Common arachnids are spiders, scorpions, ticks and mites. ‘+ Arachnids do not have antennae. ‘= Arachnies have 2 body parts and 4 pairs of legs, 103, FLORAL DIVERSITY In terms of plant diversity, India ranks tenth in the world ‘and fourth in Asia, India represents nearly 11% of the world’s known floral diversity Do you know? Paar bears are marvelosly adapted to thee Arctic sur- roundings. Their gssy ‘guard! hairs and dense under- fr, te thick layer of fat beneath their skin, and their ze protect them against the col. The guard bai shed ‘water easly, co that after a swim the polar bear ean shake itself lke a dog to dry and warm itself quickly.Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials 103.1. Important floral groups found in India are described below: 1 Algae ‘The green non differentiated plants (non - differentiated Ino organs like rot, stem and leaf) possessing chlorophyll are known as Algae. They usually grow in water or in moist situations. The fresh-water algae are generally green or bhue-green in colour, whereas the marine ones are red or brown. These are autotrophic plants, as they can manufacture their own food. 2. Fungi: Non-green non diferenciated plants characterized by total absence of chlorophyll are called Fungi ‘They grow cither on dead, rotten organic matters as sap- rophytes o ive as parasites on other living bodies, which are referred to a8 host. ‘Moulds and mushrooms are the familiar examples of sap- rophytic fungi. The maximum diversity of fungi is in the ‘Western Chats followed by the eastern Himalaya and the western Himalaya, 3. Bacteria Non-chlorophylous mécro-organisms which lead sapro- phyticor parasitic existence. Many of them are pathogenic, Saprophytic bacteria are rather beneficial. Tey are soll borne and many of chem are sed in industries. 4, Lichens ‘lichen a peculiar combination ofan alga and afurgus- the two live deriving mutual benefit. ‘They are group of greyish green plants which grow on rocks, tre trunks, dead wood, et. The algae manvfactures food which becomes available to the fungus, and the absorbs and retains water and thus eps the algal cells moist A example of symbiosis ‘They are most common in wetlands, rare in rivers and streams and are not found in ground water, 5. Bryophytes “The piant boy is itferentiated into a small stem and sim- le eaves, but true roots are absent ‘They usually grow in moist paces. Liverworts, masses “They are the second largest group of green plants in India distributed largely in Eastern Himalaya, North-eastera India, Western Himalaye and the Western Ghats “Mosses constitute the major component of indian bryiora followed by liverworts and hornvarts. 6. Pteridophytes The pteridophytes have well-diferentated plant bodies, consisting of roots, stems anc eaves. Moreover, they pos- sess vascular bundles. Most of them are terrestrial plants flourishing wellin moist and shady places, and some of them are aquatic A eS eared No pt hme aye epoca orb yw perme vgJoin Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials “SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY — ‘This group includes the vascular cryptogams like ciub- moses, horse-tails and ferns which are universlly dis+ tributed all over the world “The north-eastern region (Including Eastern Himalaya) is ‘rich in pteridophytie diversity, followed by south Ina (in cluding Eastern and Western Ghats) and north nda (in cluding Western Himalaya). 7. Gymnosperms Gymnosperms (gymnos=naked, sperm: sealed seeded plants “They have very simple lowers without accessory whorls and stamens and carpels remain aggregated in cones. ‘Oveles are present on the surface ofthe carpels and are disectly pollinated by the pollen grains. ‘There is nothing like ovary, style and stigma, and naturally there is no fruit eg. Cycas, Pinus, Gnetum. Pine isthe largest family. Gnetum and Cycas are mostly confined to North Eastera region, Eastern and Western GGhets, and Andaman & Nicobar islands. Do you know? Tolar bears evolved relatively recently (about 200,000 ‘years to possibly as long as 500,000 years ago) from. srizaly bears somewhere off eastern Russia or the Alaskan Panhandle. They depend on sea ice for their primary habitat for their food (mainly ringed seals ‘and bearded seals). As the work!’ oceans have never ‘been frozen from the north to the south, polar bears. simply didn'c have the possibility to reach the Ant- arctic, although it would have been a perfect home. foc them. 8. Angiosperms: Angiosperms (angeion=e case) are the closed-seeded plants, These are the most highly developed plants which bear flowers having conspicuous accessory and essential whorls. Carpels have the ovary style and stigma. With the stimulus of fertilization the ovary usually devel= ‘ops into the fruit and the ovules into seeds. Thus the seeds reraain within the fits —QG) 0° 3's ENVIRONMENT India hos more than 71% of the worlds known flowering plants. 103.2. Floral endemism - order 2) peninsular India including westera and Fastern Ghats {about 2,600 species), 2) Eastern Himalaya and north-eastern region (about 2,500 species), 3) north-western Himalaya (about 80o species) and 44) Andaman & Nicobar Islands (sbout-250 species) 1033. Crop genetic diversity Agriculture remains one of the dominant drivers and mainstay of economic geawth in India. The large mosaic of distinct agro: ecosystems, characterized by variations in edaphic, climaric and geographic features, has contr uted to diverse crapping patterns and systems across the country. India stands seventh in the world in terms of contribution of species to agriculture and anima! husbandry. ‘The national gene bank at National Bureau Of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), Delhi is primarily responsible for con- servation of unique accessions on long-term basis, as base collections for posterity, predominantly in the form of seeds 1023.4. Livestock genetic diversity India has vast resources of livestock and poultry, which play a vital role in rural livelihood security. in terms of population, India ranks frst in buffaloes, second in cattle and goats, third in sheep, fourth in ducks, fifth in chicken and sixth in camels in the word ‘Do you know? ‘he name “white rhinoceros’ is taken fromm the Afti= kaans word describing its mouth: “weit”, meaning “wide” Early English settlers in South Africa misin- ‘erpreted the “weit” for “white” ‘White rhinos are also sometimes called ‘the square lipped rhinoceros. Their upper lip lacks the prehensile “hook’ of some of the other rhino species. The white rhino is the largest species of land mammal after the elephant.Join Our Telegram Channel http://tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS RCRDEMY ‘The genetic resources of farm animals in India are repre- ‘sent by a broad spectrum of native breeds of cattle, buf faloes, goats, sheep, swine, equines, camel and poultry. (Over the years, animal husbandry has intensified in India with videspread introduction of exctic breeds. This has led tothereduction in total genetic variability and population, size of many local breeds. The majority (8596) of the do- ‘esti livestock in India s reared under low input produc tion systems, 10.4. WILDLIFE OF INDIA 10.4, Himalayan mountain system ‘The west Himalayas have low rainfal, heavy snowfall er erate conditions), whereas in east Himalayas, there is honvy rainfall, snowfall ony at very high aliades, where 4s at lower altitudes conditions are similar to the tropical rain forests, Flora and fauna of both Himalayas differ. Himalayan foothills Flora: Natural monsoon evergreen and semi-evergreen forests dominant species are sal, sil-cotton tees, giant ‘amboos; tall grassy meadow with savannahs in tart. (@ Western Himalayas (High altitude region) Flora: Natural monsoon evergreen and semi-evergreen forests rhodedencrons; dwar hill bamboo and bisch for- ests mixed with alpine pastures. () Eastern Himalayas, Flora. Oaks, magnolas, laurels and birches covered with ‘moss and ferns; coniferous forests of pine, fr, yew and junipers with undergrowth of serubby hodadendrons and dwarf samboos; lichens, moses, orchids, and other epi- phytes dominant due to high humidity and high rainfall, 10.4.2, Peninsular - Indian sub-region sehas tao zones, (peninsular India and its extension into the drainage basin ofthe Ganges river system, and (i) desert region of Rajasthan-the Thar of Indian desert rerjon. (O, Peninsular India. tis home to tropical moist deciduous to tropical dry de- ‘ Go” ENVIRONMENT Flora: Sal in north and east extensions (higher rainfall) and teak in southern plateau are dominant trees. West Ghats have evergreen vegetation (Fora and fauna similar to evergreen rainforests of north eastern of india. In dry areas of Rajasthan and Aravali hill, trees are scattered and thorny scrub species predominate. The forests give Way to more open sevannah habit. Do you know? polar bears have the ability to slow down thee me- tabolm, after 70 days of not being able to feed, for whatever reason and at any time of year, until food ‘becomes available again. This helps them adapt to the ‘uncertainties of food availability in the Arctic In com- parison, black or brown bears can slow down their ‘metabolism only in response to not feeding in the late ‘autumn, just before they enter their dens for the win- ter. If food is not availabe in spring or summer, they ‘will simply starveto death, @) Indian desert. ‘Thar desert of Rajasthan has unique flora and fauna. Flora: Throny trees with reduced leaves; cacti, other suc- cculents are the main plants, 10.43. Tropical rain forest region Distributed in areas of western ghats and north east India Flora: Extensive grass lands interspersed with densely forested gorgos of evergreen vegetation known as sholas ‘occur inthe Nilgiris fan offshoot af Western ghats). Sholas also occur in Aanaimalai and Palani hills. The rainforests ‘of the Western ghats 2ave dense and lofty trees with much species diversity. Mosse, ferns, epiphytes, orchids, lianas and vines, herbs, shrubs make diverse habitat. bony trees predominate in these forests. A variety of tropical orchids are found. Stratification in rain forests le very distinct three horizontal layers are distinguished. 10.4.4. Andaman and Nicobar Islands Flora. These are home for tropical rain forests. Giant Dip- ‘erocarpus, Terminalia and Lagerstroemia are dominant. Mangroves are also distributed in the coastal areas, ‘Rg es opr rar a eed iay moray man, a per wongJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials “sHankeRins ACADEMY Ge 7) ENVIRONMENT: Do you know? Penguins are warm blooded, Just like whales, pen- _guins have a layer of fat under their skin called “blub- ber”. Overtop of this they are covered with fluffy ‘down’ feathers and overtop of those they have their ‘outer feathers which overlap to seal in warmth. Pen guins rub ol from a gland onto their feathers to help ‘make them waterproof and windproof. 10.4.5. Mangrove swamps of Sunderbans ‘Sunderbans are delta of the Ganges where both the Brabr rmaputra and Ganges join and drain into the Bay of Bengal. Flora. The lower tidal zones are pioneer trees like Son- neratia and avicennia, Above this zone there are thiz- cophora, bruguiria and excaecaria-cereops forest (covering nearly 70% of mangrove forest. Above this level there are supporting forest of phonex in association with excaecaris. “There are heriteria forest inthe highest portion with thice undergrowth of phoneix and neepa plas. PHOS SS ‘Ai ig eave No pr iter mayb prodae! a any rm cy ay meng wit prion wig.Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials | SHANKAR IRS READEMY GZ) 0°) G0) ENVIRONMENT “Thi page lat tobe, Ep Ag Reserved. No pr i erly be reece nan Fr ery ay eta, boat pein in wegJoin Our Telegram Channel_http//tme/UPSCMaterials “stinninmins nerpeMy GJ 7) ENVIRONMENT SS a fe. CHAPTER - 11 | Oo QW ‘LL SCHEDULE LIST-WPA, 1972 ‘Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972 consists of 6 schedule ‘sts, which give varying degrees of protection. ‘Poaching, smugeling and illegal trade of animals listed ‘Schedule 1 to schedule 4 are probibited. Schedule 1 and part ILof Schedule 2 ‘+ Animals listed in schedule 1 and part Il of schedule 2 have absokate protection - offences under these are pre- scribed the highest peraltes. 4 Bxamples of animals lite in schedule are lion tailed ‘macaque, rhinoceros, great indian bustar, narcondam hhornbil, nicobar megapode, blac buck, ec, ‘+ Examples of animals ised in schedule 2 are rhesus ‘macaque, éhole, Bengal porcupine, king cobra, fying squire, himalyan brown bear, etc. Schedule 3 and schedule 4 ‘+ Animals listed in schedule 3 and schedule 4 are also protected, but the penalties are lower compared to schedule 1 and part 2of schedule 2 ‘+ Examples of anim listed in schedule 3 are hyaena, hogdeer, niga, goral, sponges, barking deer, et. ‘+ Examples of animals listed in schedule 4 are man- oases, vultures, etc, schedule 5 ‘© Animals listed in schedule 5 are called “vermin” which can be hunted. ‘© Mice, rat, common crow and flying fox (frult eating bats) are thelist of aninnals (only 4 nos) in schedile 5 (te. vermin. Schedule 6 ‘Cultivation, Collection, extraction, trade, ec. of Plants and its derivatives listed in schedule 6 are prohibited. ‘+ Red Vanda, blue Vanda, kuth, pitcher plant, beddomes cycad and ladies slipper orchid are the let of plants listed in schedule 6 (Refer page - 54,167) ‘he Rewer No par aril De pce i orm by any mens witout perinn wringJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY So R ENVIRONMENT Description of Animals listed in Schedule 1 to 4 of WPA, 1972. I .ne. | common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat & Ecology | Major threat 1. | Andaman wild | Least ‘Andaman Temperate to | Habitat destruction Pig Concern Tropical Habitat | and hunting pressure | snaral east Bhutan, China, Open grass slopes | Competition with Concern __| Northern india, in high mountain | fivestock,babitat Northern Myanmar, | from 2500 5500. | destruction du to | Nepal, North Pakistan. | mavoid entering | livestock. Blue Sheep - North Sorest are imalaya & Trans Himalaya ~ along the border of Arunachal Pradesh dak, Himachal Pradesh, UP, Sikkim and Eastern ‘Arunachal Pradesh & recently conformed in Western Arunachal Pradesh 3. | Binturong Vulnerable | Tala Sikkim, ‘Arboreal animal, | Habitat loss and Bangladesh, Bhutan feed on fruits, degradation. Myanmar, China | insets, bids. 4 | Brownandered [endangered | South & South Fast | Open, Grass Hunting, Medicinal Deer ‘Asia, Manipur dominated habitat. | Product, Habitat loss. Gomer end of “Hydroelectric Power Joktak lake) region of ete NE. India through Project Myanmar. 5 | Brown Beer — | Critally | india Gammuand | Temperaterain | Man - animal Endangered | Kashmir, Himachal | forest. (Northern | conflct Pradesh, Uttarkhant), | India, Western Nepal, Pakistan, China | China) 6 | Capped tangur | Velnerable | Bangladesh, hutan | Diurnal, arboreal, | Habitat destruction, (NE. India- AP, broadleaf, jhum cultivation, Assam, Manipur. | deciduous ‘manncaltine, Hmber Meghalaya, Mizoram, and firewood ‘Nagaland, Tripura) esambooZoreet harvest. Traded for ‘Brahmaputra (Karbi ‘meat purpose, Anglong, Khasi, Garo, Naga & Jana ils) Myanmar 40 “Sig ast Pop hema rca a Cnn an nOJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials Uauankna ins AcroeMy Gy) G24) ENVIRONMENT: crm [Gomenane | Gacpmy [Rag peciime [samara tai [ bei se aalaoe law) ia car, | Sen den o | io een ce vee, aise, | Sen cenal” | Hn a a eer rami rene cora | On Onn tain peepee | Cote, | fans a taaaecen | Saori Cease | cinta re senate hogy 5 laawtagin img Pomona | pimge | an ao Seats | eal | rl fen Sec | sin am See act | tbe Se ia | ome ere ean ee ST Trmmcee Yaw Yr ma) hia | Har oh iniocnte Yan | vce acco | eacera ta | oc, tata a) garetts cy | comeaent Paani | ree | Secanee seer ta | bre a cee Tamme [Wamwais niga tart | Rare Ha eas ress | icereiee, | teecitrs, ee | te brine pain sonka | | cman a el Himalaya - 2500 m. a [ewe Time Pomorie, | in aa cee Le, | suring ae * Battie | yup vas Nein) whire | freundcanby ae agricultural area =e So Temce Tee omy | pent | en Be in| PRES | See | getty ert er a | beets | honmentecee se saeee eee | colon em Sone eat oe “Ragis Rona No puro hs ery profi nan form or yay mens, wot eaten wegJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHENAE READEMY GZ) 0°36) ENVIRONMENT S.No [ Come ane | cargary | Range Dra aor teat ve | Batra ig | nae | cal Tata eet ‘mrt nt relates Aiea Vana | anges | cen Ite Soh | Aesop of Eg (India - bed. Senn 8s, Sead ws [imine | tae | rotons | mrorsigy [onan Concern America, Europe, Asia, | habitat, scrub, ‘Habitat destruction Grenand aria" | epintaton, | etme Sota” | wurden olan, ier 16 tinge | tinged n= atsan— tne | vite Gwenp | Waal ain Valley India - Nagpur, | and marshy), 45% of wetland ‘Himalayan foothill & | Oxbow lake, reed | 94% of globally tiseninde | Sayre | Spenser Cele) | eg | med Copel yrs, | Haman Seen, wan Pi ning Freon 7 [fort | vane” | aee-wty | Rentinwa | ter deers mine Satrbodint | wre uniatng | sgh insane! | Gptareasad | canoes & Pepin | Sourron | fer apcne Rastafari | wae imate way me conatanie | Spe ins Cott ‘8. | Ginger [Ente | tesco Gein soumer” | rar men " Karapalsage”_| or dao = Keres a creates. | cmepace | aemenng Asian subcontinent, ‘meanders, Can't ae uM from upstream to tolerate salinity > = whaehertite | op 3 Filan ads fisher, 4. Deliberate killing 5 Noy n beg ‘Rigs Reeve No pare of hi aria may be prod nny am yay rane wo peraJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials “ SHaNKAR IRS ACADEMY = Gy) 7) ENVIRONMENT: ‘S.No. | Common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat & cology | __ Major threat 9. | India Gaur Vulnerable | Gaur historically From scalevel | Hunting, Habitat cecured throughout | upte least a800m, | degradation forest main land south (hill &lowrlying | fragmentation with Southeast asia, tea) human population. beinsis 1-undisturbed forest tact, 2 hilly terrain 3 availability of water ‘4 avalabilty of coarse grasses ze. | Golden Cat | Near Himalayan foothills | Foresthabitat | Habitat loss to threatened | into China and South | ranging fom | deforestation, legal ast Asia tropical and trading subtropical evergreen to mined & dry deciduous forest Zu | Gokden Langur | Endangered | Bhutan and Noreh- | Moistevergreen, | Habitat destruction, east India (Assam). | diptero carp, Hunting Forest beltwest Ascam | riverine & moist between manas river | deciduous forest in eas, sankosh - Brabmaputra 2a@)_| Indian / Malabar | Least “Southwestern, Central, | Diuval-arboreal | Habitat degradation aint aquirtel | Concern | Kastern Peninsular | sp. Tropical agriculture and India (W.G, EG. & — | evergreen, semi | plantation, Satpura) AP, Kar, TN, | evergreen & Moist | Monoculture, dam, MP. Mab, Chat, Jbar, | decidous forest. | Hunting Gir, Kerala igh Cannopy ath) | Griadled giant | Near Southern india Tropical dry abiat degradation squirrel threatened | (Kerala, TN) Srilanka | deciéous & agriculture and Montane forest | plantation, Monoculture, dam, Hunting 23. | Himalyan Ibex | Least ‘Central & Northeast | Mountain, open | Hunted for food. Concern | Afghanistan, China, | alpine meadow & | Habitat loss dve to North (India) - Hima | crags (aot in forest | competition with of Jamar and zone) livestock Kashmir & Himachal Pradesh Hinds Kush range (Karakoram, ‘Trans Himalayan) ‘ip Rec opto ie war ny espe any oy any ene on prin wrtngJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials re) | SHANKRRIRS AEADEMY G0) ENVIRONMENT S.No. | Common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat & Ecology | Major threat 24 | Himalayan Thar | Near Himalaya China | Steep rocky Uscontroed hunting threatened | (outhern Tibed, | mounmainside | deforestation, ‘North India (J.K. to (3000-4000). habitat lose due to Sikkim) Nepal | Grass, herb & | vestoce graring. (Cetarkhand, HP). | fruit, 25, | HispidHare | Endangered | From Uttar Pradesh | Tal grassland | 7abiat os gr through Nepal, West | (Elephant Grass) | logging, ood contrat Bengal to Assam and HD (WB, Assam, Bihar, UP) 26. ‘Hog budger ‘Near Central to South east | Diurnal, forested | Hunting by Dogs & threatened | Asa. Mongoliz, india area tuberroot, | Man, (Sikkim, Terai, Assam, | earthworm, AP), China, Indonesia, | insects). LaoPDR, Myanmar | as tand = India Terai (Evergreen Forest) Hlooloc Endangered | Nerthoaet India, Forest dwelle, | Habitat loss, Gibbon Bangladesh (AP, locale, inbabit | fragmentation, owen Asam, Manipur, tropical evergreen | human interferences Meghalaya, Tripura, | (Treeto tree more) | hunting, ‘Mizoram, Nagaland) ‘Usco South of Brabamaputra & East cof Dibang 2) astern Vulnerable | Southern China & | Hill forest, Habitat loss, * | chindwin river Mountainous, piro | fragmentation, Myanmar. Boundary | dominated forest | human interferences between (2) Hoolock ‘bunting, «gibbon uncertain in chindwin head water. India not found (Expect Eastern AP) 28, | Leopard Near Southwest Asia Rainforest to Habitat tos, threatened | Himalayan foothills, | desert. India all | (deforestation) India, China, Jawa, _| forest type-tropical | peaching for iegal ‘srilanka “Leopards | rainforest to temp | trade, ‘occur widely in forest | deciduous and of India - sub alpine coniferous, | Human attack on costinent. a PD ‘itor piven aren ao ns FTJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials shawiaRinsReroeMY |G) 9°) ENVIRONMENT ‘S.No. | Common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat & Ecology | __ Maior threat 29, | Leopardcat | Least ‘Widespread upin | Upto 3000m, | Commercial Concer | Asa. Most of India| extent into river | exploitation ‘west into pak. Afgh, | valley- Tropical to | for skin. SERN ching, | comer, | Med CAE Russia. "| grassland, cold ie aeeieet | Cat~Bybridisaton saps Is also not threat. jo. | RedPanda | Endangered | Nepal, indi, Bhutan, | Temparate Forest | Habitat os, ‘Myanmar, Southern | ~having bamboo | Fragmentation China. (Meghalayan | ~ehickest under | Poaching, inbreeding Plateau North east | stories depression India). = odangered | Endemic “Western | Upper canopy of | Habitat Macaque Ghat hills rangein | primary tropical | fragmentation South Western India| evergreen ate plant - tea, (Kamataka, Kerala, | rainforest - Eucalyptus, Coffee) ‘Tamil Naas) Monsoon forest in ally eountry | indo-paciic | Vulnerable | Malabar West of india. Coastal water, | Susceptible to Finlers porpoise Shallow bay, entanglement in Mangrove, gillae's, Pollution Swamps and | boattraffe. Estuaries, 35 | RedStenderori | Endangered | Srilanka Primarily abit logs due to Gray Slenderlori_ | Least Southern exstrn | Hsectnorous oad Concern | India (Andhra ‘Near human eran Pradesh, Kar, Kerala, | habitation , TN) Srilanka 34 | AslanCaracal | Least ‘Africa, entralasia, | Semi desert, open | Habitat destruction, (Lynx) ‘Concern ‘Southwest Asia into savanna to moist | Hunting due to” India ‘wood land, is attack on evergreen forest. livestock 35. | Malabarcivet | Critkally | Endemic western ghat, | Lowland forest, | Habitat loss & Endangered | Coastal district af | lowland swamp | degradation. ‘Western Chats and riparian forest | Poaching for Kanyakumari to incoastal plain | civet oil Wayanad, Coorg- | district Kermataka 35. | Sun Bear Vulnerable | Southeast Asia, “Topical forest | Habitation, North easter India, | habitat, Commercial Southern China, | Mangroves, Hunting. Bangladesh Swamp ‘RNs sere No pt ft aril ay be epeund nany fr o y any ma host eon wingJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials USHANKAR IRS REREMY |G) °°, 99) ENVIRONMENT S.No. | Common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat & Ecology | Major threat 37 | Marbied Cat | Vulnerable | Tropical ndo-Malaya | Moist - Mixed Deforestation - due westward along ecidous evergreen | to oil palm, logging, Himalayan foot hills | tropical forest | agriculture. + Nepal & China, Sumatra Borneo. 38. | Markhor Near Northeast Afghan, | Mountain terrain | Hunting and Habitat threatened | Northern ndia(i& | 600m-3600m | Alteration: (Armed 1), Pakistan, = feeds on grasses | conficd Uspekistan. ‘Pirpanjal | & leaves. range’, Banihal pass on Jammu - Srinagar highway, 38. | Mouse Deer Least India from T.N.& — | Tropical deciduous, | Hunting (for Meat Concern | Keralainfar south _| Moist evergreen & | purpose) - W.G. & = north upto Rajasthan | Semiever-greea | EG. forest of Peninsular hill 40. | Himalayan Musk ] Endangered | Himalayan of Bhutan, | Alpine 1. Hunting for Meat. Deer North India (Sikkim), | environment, ‘Nepal & China barren plateaus at hgh altitude 2. Trade - Musk ‘meadows, fell sland - Cosmetic / fields, shurblands | Pharmaceutical | forest 41. | NilgiriLangur | Vulnerable | Western Ghats in Bvergreen, Hunted for skin, South Western India| Semi-evergreen | Medicine, Habitat (Karnataka, Kerala, | Moist deciduous & | Joss, Mining, dam, ™ ipacian forest in| road fills. lower aktitude 42 | NilgiriTahr | Endangered | 596 of West Ghats in| High elevation, | Habitat loss & South india (Kerala & | grass coveredhills, | poaching. ‘Tamil Nadu) open terrain 43. | Indian Pangolin | Near South asia, Eastern | ‘Tropical forest, | Meat & Medicine. threatened | partof pak to India| open land, or boots & shoes) (Except North East | grasslands, ete India). Himalayan to “High in human ‘extreme South. India ee settlement area, 44 | Pygmy Hog Critically | Northwest Bengal & | Smallest & Rarest | Habitat loss, Endangered | North - Western wild pig in word. | affecting natural ‘Assam in India, Grassland - with | succession. Himalayan foot hill | shrub & tree from Up to Assam == [Rpt ne oy PRE Wy PNJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials SC sHannmingRcABEMY Gy) °93 S75 ENVIRONMENT S.No. | Common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat Ecology | Major threat 45. | Greateronehorn | Vulnerable | Northern part- India | Riverine grasiand | Habitat bss, Rhino along indus, Ganga, | ~ Tera. Alluvial | Poaching fr horn Brabmaputra basin | grassland ~ Medicinal use in inludes Nepal ‘svamps & forest | China. Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan 46 | Rostysported | Vulnerable | India Srilanka | Moist & dry “abiat os due to cat (confined to south) | deciduous forest | agriculture types scrub & grassland - absent in evergreen forest | Himeeyan | Near Southeast Bangladesb, | Steep hill & rocky | Meat & tropics, Serow threatened | Himalaya Bhutan, | places limestone | habitat destruction, Northern india~ | regionupto 3000 | for agriculture, Sikkim & Nepal, | méehill & fuelwood. Northeast India & | mountain foreat into west myanmar | area @& | Asia-smatl | vulnerable | india Himalayan | Wetland system | Habitat destruction. claw offer foothills of HP. (Kuk, | -having pools & | Tea & Cafee WB, Assam, AP. 6S. | stagnant water. | euivation Coorg (Karnataka), | Fresh water Ashambu,Nilgisi, | swamp, Palani Hill (TN), | meandering river, Kerala mangroves & tidal tools, 49. | Sloth Bear Valnerable | tndia, Nepal, Bhutan, | Wet & dry tropical | Habitat loss, seilanka forest, grasslands. | poaching (harvesting Lowland species - | of forest produce, (From Gujarat -t0 Ree ee toeg | S80MWE.-upte | Monoedture) “ (Medicine) - fat of bear 50. | Bengal dowlori | Vulnerable | Bangladesh, ‘Arboreal, Habitat oss - Cambodia, China, | nocturnal species | Farming, road North Rastern India | ~ tropical building, dam, power (AP, Assamet. | evergreen forest, | lin, Hunting - semi &moist | Medicine. deciduous forest. gr | teencore | Near Restricted 9 WG. of | Arboreal atitatlose dve to FYying squirrel | Threatened | Southern India and | Nocturnal agriculture &chuman Srilanka, kerala & TN, | Evergreen, settlement. (Grom Brabmagiri | decous ana ‘Wildlife Sancuary, | montane forest Karnataka). ‘Ninh Revd Ne part af i mari maybe apne na Frm ry any meu, wits person wing anJoin Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials S.No. | Common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat & Ecology | Mejor threat 5% | Snubfin Dolphin | Vulnerable | Southeast Asia, India| Coastal area with | Habitat loss and + Chili lake, muddy, brackish | degradation, Water at river mouth. 58: | Snow leoperd | Endangered | High mountain of C.A, | Alpine & Sub | Reduce in prey, Pamir, Karakorum, | alphine ecological | ilegal trade, people Hindu Kush and zane favouring | conflict, lack of Himalayan Range. | stoep terrain. conservation India - JK, H2, Sepak policy & Sikkim, ‘Uttarkhane), mined 54 | SwampDeer | Vulnerable | Northern & Central | Open sal, with | Habitat loss - due to India, Southwestern | grass understorey | conversion into [Nepal (Assam - ‘andgrassland | agriculture land. Sunderbans (indo | forms, rue swamp = Gangetic) deer, Mangroves of ‘Sunderban. ss. | Chiru Endangered | China, India x) | High altitude Hunted for fur plain, hill plateau | (Shahtosh) Montane valley | o.stty - making “shawls 56. | tibetan Fox | Least ‘Tibetan Plateau, Ladak | Upland plains, | No Major threat Concern area of India, China, | hills - mostly spare Nepal ‘grassland devoid cof tees fe shrub 57 | Tibetan Gazelle | Near ‘Qinghai - Tibet High altitude Habitat loss, threatened | Plateau, India (ladak, | plains ills also Sikkim). grasses in wetland margin. 58. | Kiang (wild Ass) | Least ‘Tibetan Plateau, Open terrain, Hiunting, disease Concern Chins, Northern Pak, | plains, alphine | transmission from India, Nepal) Ladak & | meadovis - where | domestic livestock, ‘Sikkim grasses & sedges abundant. 59. | Tiger Endangered | Southwest Asia, Forest of tropical | Poaching, Man Central Asia, Java & | Asia animal conflict, Bali) - disappeared. (bore anti- inflammatory Asian Countries Bang. Bhutan, property) Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, ‘Nepal, Russia, ‘Thailand & Vietnam Ags Reseed No par hi ert maybe proud in a6 frm or by ryt, We prongJoin Our Telegram Channel http//t.me/UPSCMaterials cians nemo G2 °°) ENVIRONMENT ‘S.No. | Common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat & Ecology | _ Major threat 50 | Ural Vulnerable | India - Only (addak), | Moderateto arid | Poaching, Central and South | habitat grassland, | Competition with West Asia Tivestock G._| Indian Buffalo | Endangered | S. Nepal, Southern | Low ying Interbreeding with Bhutan, Western Alluvial grassland, | feral & domestic Thailand, Northern | deciduous forest | buffalo, hunting & ‘Myanmar, India = with marshes & | habitat loss. Gastar region = MP, _| rivers ‘Assam, AP, Meghalaya, Orissa, Mainarastra) aa) | Terrapin ‘Critically | Bangladesh, india, | ‘Terrestrial nest | Trade Endangered | Cambodia, India, sites, tidal area of Indonesia, Malaysia, | largest river estuaries Gab) | Tricarinate Hil | Vulnerable | Bangladesh, India | Fully terrestrial | ~ ‘Tule 63, | Gharial Citically | India ~Chambal River, | Terrestrial, Fresh | Alternation of ‘endangered | Girwa river, Pop ~Son | Water habitat, Fishing, River Agriculture, graring, meu utilization Ga | India Softshell | Vulnerable | Bangladesh, India| Teerestrial, Fresh | ‘Trade in East Asian Turtle (Ganges Riven), Water Market Pakistan G5 | Green Turtle | Endangered | Throughout tropical | Highly migratory, | Harvest of ogg & water, lesser - broad habitat ‘Adult from nesting subtropical. indian | during their beaches, retting, ocean = east, west, | lifetime. trawling. ‘mediterranean Sea, Pacific ocean Ge. | Hawsbill Tune | Critically | Throughout tropical | Highly migratory, | ‘Tortoises shell trade endangered | water, larger extent | broad habitat ~ Subtropical Adanti, | during fe time, | P86 colection, meas Indian, Pacific Ocean, Destroction of Nesting habitat, Foraging habitat, ol pollution, hybridisation 67. | Leather Back | Vulnerable | Leather back are ‘Turtle inhabiting | Habitat destruction, Ture distributed, with tropical, pollution, climate nesting site on suberopical su | change, Tisheries by tropical sandy beaches | polar extensive | Catch 4 foraging range ‘migration, diferent that extent into temp / | feeding area at sup polar different season “rugs Roc Rajon ay eps an ora ay means wo emis in wi,Join Our Telegram Channel http//tme/UPSCMaterials S.No, | Common Name | category | Range Description | Habitat & feology | Major enreat 68. | olvenialy | vulnerable | Throughout tropical | Mukipe habitat, | Targred water (Except Mexico. | Migration less | Exploation, compared to ther | capering. by sual eared by | catch in series, rauorcurenss | Habitat impact diease & predation 5. | engaHerican Cray | Two popuiaion | towand dry | Modiiaton oF cedangered | satural & semi | grassland, cass (mera | omtn” ‘Continent - (U.P, ‘Nepal, Assam, AP) open ores inappropriate cutting burning 2. South-East Asia & ploughing ‘Cambodia, Vietnam. regimes, looding, dem construction, igs development. 7. | Black Necked- | Vuinerabie | China, Ladakh (AP) | alpine bor Intensive grazing & Crane India, Bhutan meadows & Pesticide use - result riverine marshes, | in degradation of lecstine erassand marshes, 7% | cheer Pheasant | Vulnerable | India Kashmir 1, | Rocky erin | Hunts aw Utarkhand, Pakistan, | dominated by | consumption, Nepal sera, talaress& | construton projet | scattered cumb | (dam, electricity). trees - 3050m) 7 | FoestOwiet | Crieally | Edenic-Oentrat | Open any Forest destruction, endangered | india, North - deciduoos forest | human settement & Western Maharastra, | dominate by | grasing Southeast? | Teak ground Ti 1997 only with grasses - specimen, 2000 | typical owe ce rediscovered 7. | Barking Deer | tea Thal Malay ‘Inforest areas | Habit (eo Munae | concern | Peninsula, Grester | aiacent forest | encroachment & sundas Borneo, av, Hunting fr Bali, Surat) 2 Inplantations | eahmeat ruber, sugarcane, | teak ‘AUR Rovere par fs te maybe graded ey am ry ay Ran bo eran WRGJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials |p 9 80) ENVIRONMENT S.No. | Common Name | Category | Range Description | Habitat & Ecology | __Major threat ms. | Chit es 8-30" Ninidia | s.Avoids-Dense | Hunting & Concern | Clncuding SIKKIM), | Mois forest Competition with Smt abnan, | open senate | meter reledesh, arid desert [No Major threat Ws - Eastern eb Rajasthan aut sft | sans = (or grasslands EB Western Assam | - Hobitat $8 - Throughout Peninsular India 75. | Goral x) Near Bhutan, China +. Step Mountains | Habitat destruction Wiodgscei threatened | Gouthern ibe) | sewill we Hunting competion Northern India (Incl | evergreen forest | of livestock SIKKIM Northern | near cliff Pakistan Possibly 2d ingrey mae 7 | Wosier | Beagesd [rat aha Ys we | Hat Bats Noah Fanen tnd | lsd | dean exact | 2 ota Srincregee | plan ‘Marginally - Southern chim 7 ‘Hyena Near ‘Africa, Arab peninsula | 1. Open habitat (or) | Persecution trates [key ndan|igttto | Gucml) Subcomines ts | noc opn | even oe Nepal Desert = | ie Tac | way daca | wacdaean | Cons tndatwandot | unary” | Sgraneagee Nepal & border areas | deciduous, of Pakistan extinct in | agricultural areas Bangladesh 2. Avoid - Dense Forest, deserts 3. Browsers & | grazers 2, Yermit hunting at damage occurs, ‘Spar Yop ay open wp ezJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS REABEMY Gi)" 3 G2) ENVIRONMENT) ‘S.No. | Common Name Category Range Description | Habitat & Ecology Major threat Dp ‘Sambar ‘Vulnerable India, East along 1. India - Thorn, 2. Habitat SoatemHinalyas | ardforensot "| enrichment Inia Nepal Dhan, | Gre ‘Srilanka Rajasthan id ine ferent through Peninsular $.Pine Oates ichimalgen fet [ex [widrie ean | oxurinmodiiod [Temperate & [Gaal ne No Concern | frminall cones | topieathaats | major threats except inAntacta & | 5 sem deet io | al eee & ial many ‘tropical rainforest | Hunting & habitat = destin. 8. India's Procupine | Least Turkey to Pakistan, 1, Rocky hill side Considered as Concern ae Nepal & | ‘Tropical & ‘Agricultural Pest temperate scrub | local rape ind the or ed SRT SOSD "AD Rita one No pa of aly eee nay erm By an newt perma n wegJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials USHAINKRR IRB READEMY G7) 0° 3 G0) ENVIRONMENT | Do you India has been ranked as seventh most environ- ly hazardous country in the work. The based on evaluation of “absolute” environ- ‘ment impact of 179 countries, done by researchers | in Harvard, Princeton, Adelaide University and } University of Singapore on January, 201. Brazil ee eee states an china whereas Sin Se 12.1, MAMMALS - CRITICALLY ENDANGERED 32,12. Pygmy Hog (Porcula salvania) ‘+ Is the world’s smallest wild pig, with adults weighing ‘only 8 kgs. This species constructs a nest throughout the year, ‘© Ih is one of the most useful indicators of the manage- ‘unt status uf grassland habitats, The grassluns where the pygmy hog resides are crucial for the survival of ‘other endangered species such as Indian Rhinoceros, ‘Swamp Deer, Wild Buffale, Hispid Hare, Bengal Florian and Swamp Francalin, ‘© In 1996, a captive-breeding programme of the species ‘was initiated in Assam, and some hogs were reintro- duced in Sonai Rupat area in 2009. ‘© Habitat: Relatively undisturbed, tall ‘terai' grasslands, ‘> Distribution: Formerly, the species was more widely PA) of 1972 provided. for the declaration of National Parks by the State Gov ‘ernment in addition tothe declaration of wildlife sanc- taries, ‘+ National Parksare declared in areas that are considered to be of adequate ecological, geomorphological and natural significance although within the law the difer- ‘ence in conse-Vation value ofa National Park from that ‘of a sanctuary is not specified in the WPA 1972, Difference between the two ‘+ National Parks enjy a greater degree of protection than. sanetuaries * Cectain activities which are regulated in sanctuaries, such as grazing of livestock, are prohibited in National Parks. Qh O° 3 SAS a= PROTECTED AREA NETWORK ENVIRONMENT W@ ee. a= Seep ‘© Wildlife sanctuary can be created for a particular spe- ies for eg. grizzled giant squirrel wiLs in stivalipu- thus) whereas the national park isnot primarily focused ‘on a particular species. ‘= The Central Government may also declare, Wild Life Sanctuary and National Park under certain conditions 45.2.1. General Provision for Sanctuary and ‘National Park Declaration of the Protected Area by the State Government: ‘© Initial Notification: The State Government may, by notification, declare ite intention to constitute any area within or outside any reserve forest as a sanctuary/ National Park fit consilers that such area is ofadequate- ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphological, natural or 2oological significance, for the purpose of protecting, propagating or developing wild life or its environment. Final notification: After the intial notification has ‘been issied and the period for preferring ciaims has. ‘lapsed, the State Government may issue a notification. specifying the limits of the area which shal: be com- prised within the sanctuary and declare thatthe said ‘area shall be a sanctuary! National park fromsuch date ‘as may be specified in the notification Do you know? Spiers can't chew or swallow inject their prey with ‘poison using their fangs. The poison turns the insides of insect to a watery goop and the spider just sucks ‘twp. Declared hy the Central Government: ‘© The Central Government may if it is satisfied that an area is of adequate ecological, faunal, loral, geomor—Join Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials UBHANKAR IAS ACADEMY O55 phological, natural or zoological significance, for the ‘purpose of protecting, propagating ar developing life or its environment, declare a sanctuary/ National Park by notification es nearly as possible, the situation and limits of such area, ‘+ In cases where territorial waters is included, the limits shall be determined in consultaion withthe Chief Naval Hycrographer ofthe Central Government, after taking. adequate measures to protect the accupaticnal interests of the local fishermen, ‘+ No alteration of boundaries ef a sanctuary/National Park shall be made except on recommendation of the National Board for Wild Life. ‘© (The Amendment Act of 1991 provided forthe inclusion of territorial waters in areas to be declared as sanct- aries forthe protection of oft shore marine flora and fauna) Settlement of rights © The State Government shall make alternative arrange- ‘ments required for making available fue, fodder and ‘other forest produce to the persons affected, in terms of their rights as per the Government records ‘The State Government appoints an officer as a ‘Collec- tor’ under the Act to inquire into and determine the existence, nature and extent of rights of any person for over the land comprised withia the sanctuary/ Ne tional Park which is to be notified After the issue of a notification for declaration of the Protected Area, no right shall be acquired in, on or over the land comprised within the limits ofthe area speci- fied in such notification, except by succession, testamen- tary or intestate Do you know? The term “crocodilians” refers to members of three families: the Family Crocodyiidae (coca), Family Aligatordae(ligators and caimans) and Family Ga- vialdae (ghar), The term “crocodiles refers ony crocodiles. ‘Claim of rights: + In the case of a claim to a rightin or aver any land re- {erred to, the Collector shall pase an order admitting or rejecting the same in whole or la part ‘If such claim is admitted in whole or in part, the Col lector may either (@) exclude such land from the limits of the proposed sanctuary or (b proceed to acquire such land or rights, except where by an agreement between the owner of such land or holder of rights and the Government, the owner or holder of such rights has agreed to surrender his, rights to the Government, in or aver such land, and ‘on payment of such compensation, a is provided in the Land Acquisition Act, 189 (@ allow, in consultation with the Chief Wild Life War- en, the continuation of any right of any person in of over any land within the limits of the sanctuary Entry into the Protected Area ‘+ No person other than:- 4. A public servant on duty 2 A person who has been permitted by the Chief Wild Life Warden or the authorized officer to reside within the limits ofthe sanctuary/National Park 3: A person who has any right over immovable prop- erty within the limit of the sanctuary/National Park 4: A person passing through the sanctwary/National Park along 2 public highway 5. The dependents of the person referred to in clause (0) or @ above, ‘Shall enter or reside in the sanctuary/National Park, except under and in accordance with the conditions of 4 permit granted. Grant of permit for entry: ‘© The Chief Wild Life Warden may, on application, grant toany person a permit to enter or resde in a sanctuary National Park fr all or any of the following purposes ‘investigation or study of wildlife and purposes ancil- * tourism ‘+ transaction of lawful businoss with any person resid ing in the sanctuary ‘+ The Chief Wild Life Warden shall be the authority who shall control, manage and maintain all Protected Areas, ‘The National Board for Wild Life may make recommen- dations on the setting up of and management of Na- tional Parks, Sanctuaries and other protected areas and "8 pas esr orto hs ara may beeps fay fon orb ay ees, wt person aw.Join Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials ‘on matters relating to restriction of activities in those '* ‘The State Board for Wild Life shall advise the State Government on the selection and managemient of areas tobe declared as protected areas. Do you know? ‘The extinct rhinos were also more widespread, occur ring in North America and Europe in addition to Af rica. and Asia. Inthe past, rhinos were not confined to the tropics but extended inte temperate and even arc tic regions. 15.3. CONSERVATION RESERVE AND COMMUNITY RESERVES ‘© Conservation Reserve and Community Reserves are the ‘oatconve of Amendments tothe Wild life protection act In 2003. ‘+ It provided for a mechanism to provide recognition and legal backing to the community initiated efforts in wild- life protection «It provides for a flexible system wherein the wildlife conservation is achieved without compromising the community needs, 1534. Conservation Reserves ‘+ The Amendment Act of 2003 provided for the creation of a new type of provacted area called a Conservation Reserve. + it is an area owned by the State Government adiacent to National Parks and sanctuaries for protecting the landscape, seascape and habitat of fauna and flora is managed through a Conservation Reserve Management Committee + The State Government may, after having consultations with the local communities, declare any area owned by the Government as conservation reserve. + Tiruppadaimarathur conservation reserve in Tirunelveli, tamil nadu isthe first conservation reserve established in the Country It is an effort of the village ‘community to protect the birds nesting in their village ‘and acted for declaration of conservation reserve. 153.2. Community Reserve = The Amendment Act of 2003 provided for the creation of & new type of protected area called a Community Reserve. + The State Government may notify any community land or private land as a Community Reserve, provided that the members of that community or individuals con- cerned are agreeable to offer such areas for protecting the fauna and flora, as well as their traditions, cultures and practices ‘© The declaration of such an area is aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of the people living in such areas as well as conserving wildlife. The Reserve Is managed through a Community Reserve Manage- ment Committee ‘© The State Government may, where the community or an individual has volunteered to conserve wildlife and its habit, declare the area by notification as commu nity reserve, ‘+ No change in land use pattern shall be made within the CCormunity Reserve, except in accordance with a reso- lution passed by the Management Committee and ap- proval ofthe same by the State Government 15.4, COASTAL PROTECTED AREAS + Ieaime to protect and conserve the natural marine eco- systems in their pristine condition ‘© Marine Protected Area (MPA) as “any area of intertidal Cr sub tidal terrain, together with its overlaying water ‘and assoclated flora, fauna, historical and cultural fea- ‘ures, which has been reserved by law or other effective ‘means to protect part or all of the encosed environ- meat” = IUCN. © Marine productivity in India is concentrated in small ‘areas of coral refs, lagoons, mangroves. estuaries and ‘seagrass beds around the coast, which provides rich feed- ing and breeding ground for fish and other maine hie ‘+ MPA protects the vital life support processes of the sea and also ensures sustainable productivity and fish pro- duction. ‘+ "The MPAs in marine environment in Inéia are primar- iy classified into following three categories: + Category-I: Ths covers National Parks and Sanctuaries ‘and baving entire areas in intertidal/sub-tidal or man- ‘groves, coral reefs, creoks, seagrass beds, algal beds, ‘estuaries, lagoons. © Category-Tl This inches Islands, which have major parts in marine ecosystem and some part in terrestrial ecosystem, # Category-IMIA: This includes sandy beaches beyond in- tertidal line but occasionally interacting with the sea [Ht Righa Road Rp ois maar oproaed in ayn by ES wou BEM WR wate, @uJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials "SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY * Category-lIB: This includes ever green or semi ever green forests of Islands ‘The Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in India com- prise of « 33 uational parks and wildlife sanctuaries Aesignated under the Wildlife Protection) Act, 1972, encompassing a few of the country’s richest coastal habitats Marine National Park and Marine Sanctuary in the Gulf of Kutch form one unit (one MPA), Similarly Bhitar- kkaniia National Paric and Bhitarkanika Sanctuary are an integral part of one MPA. Thus, there a total of 31 MPAs in India MPAs cover less than 4.01 % of the total ares of al Pro- tected Areas of India. Do you know? ‘The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) de- clared 2010-2020 as the United Nations Decade for Deserts and the Fight against Desertification, to raise ‘awareness about desertification, and degradation and drought. 15.5. SACRED GROVES OF INDIA. ‘+ Sacred groves comprise of patches of forests ot natural ‘vegetation - from a few trees to forests of several acres ~ that are usually dedicated to local folk deities, These spaces are protected by local communities be- cause oftheir religious beliefs and traditional rituals that run through several generations. '* The degree of sanctity of the sacred forests varies from ‘one grove to another. In some forests even the dry fol age and fallen fruits are not touched. ‘People believe that any kind of disturbance will offend the local deity, causing diseases, natural calamities or failure of crops. For example, the Garo and the Khasi tribes of northeastern India completely prohibit any ‘human interference in the sacred groves, In other _groves, deadwood or dried leaves may be picked up, but. the live tre or its branches are never cut. For example, the Gonds of central india prohibit te cutting of a tree but allow fallen parts to be used, 415,54. Classification of Sacred Groves ‘+ Traditional Sacred Groves ~ It is the place where the village deity resides, who is represented by an elemen- tary symbol QO." gS ENVIRONMENT ‘+ Temple Groves - Here a grove is created around a tem- ple and conserved. * Groves around the burial or cremation grounds, 15.5.2. Ecological Significance ‘© Conservation of Biodiversity ~ The sacred groves are Important repositories of floral and faunal diversity that have been conserved by focal communities ina sustain- able manner. They are often the last refuge of endemic species inthe geographical region, ‘+ Recharge of aquifers - The groves ae often associated with ponds, streams or springs, which help meet the ‘water requirements of the local people. The vegerative ‘cover also helps in the recharging the aquifers, * Soil conservation - The vegetation cover of the sacred _groves improves the soil stability of the area and also prevents soil erosion. 15.53: Distribution of Sacred Groves in India * In India, sacred groves are found all over the country. nd abundantly along the western ghats in the states of Kerala and Karnataka, 155-4- Threats to the Sacred Groves ‘The threats vary from one region tothe otber and even, from one grove to the other. But the common threats identified are * Disappearance of the traditional belief systems, which were fundamental to the concept ef sacred groves. ‘These systems and their rituals are aow considered mere superstition, ‘+ Sacred groves in many parts of our country have been destruyed due to rapid urbanization and developmen- {al interventions such as roads, railways tracks, dams including commercial forestry. Encroachment has led to the shrinkage of some of the largest groves in the country. + Many groves are sulfering due to ‘Sanskritisation’ or ‘the transformation of the primitive forms of nature ‘worship into formal temple worship. ‘+ Invasion by exotic weeds such as Fupatorium odoratur, Lantana camara and Prosopis juliflora is a serious threat to some graves. ‘Pressures due to increasing livestock and fuelwood col- lection. Asse Ne pro is aera yee nay Frm by yn wll prsn wrJoin Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials “shanknmingAcABEMY QO. 0° G3" 15.6, EXPORT - PROHIBITED GOODS + The prohibited items are not permitted to be exported. ‘An export licence will not be given in the nocmal course for goods in the prohibited category. ‘= The following are the items probited in the flora and fauna category: ‘All wild animals, animal articles including tl ‘products and derivatives (excluding those for which ‘ownership certificates have been granted and also those required for transactions for education, scien tifie research and management under Wild Life (Pro- tection) Act, 1972 including their parts and products). ‘© Beef of cows, oxen and cal. Beef in the form of offal of cows, oxen and calf ‘+ Meat of buifalo (both male and female) fresh and chilled and frozen ‘© Peacock Tal Feathers & its Handicrafts and articles: Shavings & Manufactured Articles of shavings of ‘Shed Antlers of Chital and Sambhar © Sea shells ‘+ Wood and wood products uel wood ‘© Wood charcoal ‘¢ Sandalwood in any form but excluding finished handicraft products of sandalwood, machine fin- ihed sandalwood products, sandalwood of): + Red Sanders wood, Value added products of Red Sanders ‘© Mechanical, chemical and ser chemical wood pulp Do you know? ‘+ The Marble Palace Zoo in Calcutta city which was ‘established in the year 1854 isthe oldest existing. ‘mo in the country. ‘© Dathi asthe largest let of busses operating en com- pressed natural gas, which isa successful example of low-carbon sustainable transport ‘+ India maintains and reports ozone depleting sub- stance (ODS) data on year to year basis. ‘+ Nesting sites ofan ammpbious soak is reported from the shores of Nocth Andaman Islands. ‘+ ‘Traditional Welland agriculture (locally known as, poll in Kerata and Gazhani in Karnataka) GLOBAL INITIATIVE 157, THE MAN AND BIOSPHERE (MAB) ‘+ ‘The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme is an Intergovernmental Scientific Programme aiming to set ‘a scientific basis for the improvement ofthe relation- ships between people and their environment globally. ‘+ Launched in the early 3970s, it proposes an interdisci- plinary research agenda and capacity building that tar get the ecological, social and economic dimensions of biodiversity loss and the reduction of this loss. ‘Concerned with prablems atthe interface of scientific, environmental, societal and development issues, MAB combines natural and social sciences, economics and education to improve human livelihoods and safe- ‘guard natural ecosystems, thus promoting innovative Approaches to economic development that is socially and culturally appropriate and environmentally sus- tainable ‘The agenda of the MAB Prorgamme is defined by its ‘main governing body, the international Coordinating Council in concertation with the broader MAB Com- munity, + For implementation of its interdisciplinary work on- ground, MAB relies on the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, and on thematic networks and partnerships for knowledge-sharing research and monitoring, edu- cation and training, and participatory decision- making. Ie predicts the consequences of today's actions on tomnor- row's world and thereby increases people's ability to ‘efficiently manage natural resources for the well-being. of both human populations and the environment. Do you know? «Paints and dressings do not help to cure the tree ‘wound, some actually speed up the decay. ‘©The desth of one 70-year old tree would return over three tons of carbon to the atmosphere. Do cut! ‘+ The cottonwood tree seed Is the see that stays in ‘ight the longest. ‘Aloe vera Is also called as fountain of youth '* During periods of increased or decreased tempera- ‘ture, cracks may develop in the tree trunk ~ re- ferred to as frast cracks and sun cracks. Both can. lead to decay. ‘Sings noise Nop of hover even fy fre oy any mens it cmos WeJoin Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY 15.8. BIOSPHERE RESERVE (BR) ‘¢ The International Co-ordinating Council (ICC) of UN- ESCO, November, 1971, introduced the designation ‘io sphere Reserve for natural areas, The concept of Biosphere Reserves was refined by a Task Force of UN- ESCO's MAB Programme in 1974, and BR network was formally launched in 3976. 15.8.1. Definition * Biosphere Reserve (BR) isan international designation hy UNESCO for representative parts of natural and cul ‘tural landscapes extending over large arca of terrestrial ‘or coastal/marine eensystems or a combination thereot *BRs are special environments for both people and the nature and are living examples of how human beings and nature can co-exist while respecting each others? needs. * Biosphere reserves are sites established by countries ‘and recognized under UNESCO's Man and the Bio- sphere (MAB) Programme to promote sustainable de- velopment based on local community efforts and sound science * As places that seek: to reconcile conservation of biologi~ cal and cukural diversity and economic and social de- velopment through partnerships between people and ‘ature, they are ideal to test and demonstrate innova tive approaches to sustainable development from local to international scales Do you know? ‘The forests in the country have been classified into 16 major types and 2s1 subtypes on the basis of climatic and edaphic features, ‘+ Sender loris (primate) found onlin the tropical rain- {forests of Southern India and Sei Lanka. ‘+ The Indian star tortise found in scrub forests of 15.83. Characteristics of Biosphere reserve + ‘The characteristic features of Biosphere Reserves arc: (© Each Biosphere Reserves are protected areas of land and/or coastal environments wherein people are an integral component af the system, ‘Together, they constitute a worldwide network linked by International understanding for exchange of sc entific information, 2 Sy ENVIRONMENT @) The network of BRs inchudes significant examples of biomes throughout the world, (3) Eacls BR includes one or more of the fotlowing cate- ories: (BRS are representative examples of natural biomes. (Gi) BRs conserve unique communities of biodiversity ‘or areas with unusual natural features of excep- tional intrest. i) BRs have examples of harmonious landscapes re- sulting from traditional patterns of land-use, Gv) BRs have examples of modified or degraded ecosys- tems capable of being restored to more natural con- ditions, ‘9)BRs generally have @ non-manipolative core area, jn combination with areas in which baseline meas- ‘urements, experimental and manipulative research, ‘education and training is carried out. Where these ‘areas are not contiguous, they can be associated in a cluster, 35.8.4. Functions of Biosphere Reserves Conservation ‘+ “bensure the conservation of landscapes, ecosystems, species and genetic variations. ‘+ To encourage the traditional resource use systems; * To understand the patterns and processes of function: Ing of ecosystems; ‘+ To monitor the natural and human-caused changes on spatial and temporal scales; Development + 1 promote, at the local level, economic development ‘wiih i culturally, socially and ecologically sustainable. * To develop the strategies leading to improvement and ‘management of natural resources; Logistics support ‘+ To provide support for research, monitoring, education and information exchange related to local, national and ba issues of conservation and development ‘+ Sharing of knowledge generated by research through ste specific training and education; and ‘+ Development of community spirit in the management of natural resources. ‘tits Rese, No phe mater my be arden any or 07 yey aan who parangJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials "SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY Beneficiaries ‘= Direct Reneficiaries local people and the ecological resourers of the Biosphere Reserves. * indirect beneficiaries - world community. ‘Biosphere Reserves: an Indian approach Ks tls ecological versity that mikes India as one of ‘the mega-diversity regions on the globe. Efforts are on to designate at least one Biosphere Reserve in each of the Biogeographic Provinces. 15.8.5. National Biosphere Reserve Programme. ‘+The national Biosphere Reserve Programme was init ated in 986, * To ensure participation of local inhabitants for effective management and devise means of improving livelihood ‘of the eal inhabitants through sustainable use. Objectives ‘Stay be noted that BRs are nota substitute oralterna- tive, but a re-enforcement to the existing protected areas, The objectives of the Biosphere Reserve pro- ‘gramme, as envisaged by the Core Group of Experts, are as follows: ‘= "To conserve the diversity and integrity of plants and. animals within natural ecosystems; ‘+ To safeguard genetic diversity of species on which their continting evolution depends; ‘+ To provide areas for multi-faceted research and mon! toring: + To provide facilities for education and training; and * Toensure sustainable use of natural resources through ‘most axpropriate technology for improvement of eco- ‘nomic well-being ofthe local people. ‘These objectives should be ociented in such a way chat the BRs axe the Units wherein the Biological, socio-eco- ‘nomic ad cultural dimension of conservation are inte- grated together into @ realistic conservation strategy. 15.8.6. Criteria for selection of BRs ‘+The criteria for selection of sites for BRs as laid down, by the Core Group of Experts in 1979 are listed below: Primary criteria ‘© A site shat must contain an effectively protected and ‘minimally disturbed core area of value of nature con- servation and should inchide additional land and water suitabk for research and demonstration of sustainable ‘methods of research and management, Do QOMENVIRONMENT) ‘= The core area should be typical ofa biogeographical unit and large enough to sustain viable populations repre- senting all tropic levels in the ecosystem. Do you know? Frogs are found all over the work! and in every ai- ‘mate, except Antarctica. Frogs cannot live in the sea ‘or any salt water. Secondary criteria ‘+ Areas having rare and endangered species ‘+ Areas having diversity of oil and micro-climatic condi- tions and indigenous varieties of biota. 4 Aceas potential or preservation of traditional tribal or rural modes of living for harmoniovs use of environ- seat. 15.87. Structure and Design of Biosphere Reserves ‘+ In order to undertake complementary activities of bio- diversity conservation and development of sustainable ‘management aspects, Biosphere Reserves are demar- ‘ated Into three inter-related zones. 4. The Core Zone: Core Zone Puffer Zone “Transition Zone ‘© The core zone should be kept absolutely undisturbed. It ‘must contain suitable habitat for numerous plant and ‘animal species, including higher order predators and may contain centres of endemnism. A core zone secures legal protection and management and research activi ties that do not affect natural processes and wildlife are allowed, Strict nature reserves and wilderness portions ‘of the area are designated as core areas of BR. The core zone isto be kept fre from all human pressures exter- nal to the system, ‘os a Nope trey be eS wn) Fy aR we enaJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials 2. The Buffer Zone: ‘* Buffer Zone adjoins or surrounds core zone. ts uses and activities are managed in ways that protect the core ‘zone. These uses and activites inckale restoration, dem- ‘nstration sites for enhancing value addition (othe re- sources, limited recreation, tourism, fishing and ‘grazing, which are permitted to redhce its effect on core zone. Research and educational activities are to be en- ‘couraged. Human activities, if nataral within BR, are likely to be permitted to continue if these do not ad- versely affect the ecological diversi 3: The Transition Zone: ‘The Transition Zone is the outermost part of a Bio- sphere Reserve. This is usually not delimited one and is zone of cooperation where conservation, knowledge and management skills are applied and uses are man- aged in harmony with the purpowe of the Biosphere Reserve. This includes setlements, crop lands, managed forests and area for intensive recresron, and other eco- ‘omc uses characteristic ofthe region, © (in Buffer Zone and the Transition Zones, manipulative ‘macro-management practices are vsed, Experimental research areas are used for understanding the patterns and processes in the ecosystem. Medified or degraded landscapes are included as rchabilzation areas to re- store the ecology in a way that it returns to sustainable productivity) 15.8.8. How Biosphere Reserves are different from protected areas? * BRis not intended to replace existing protected areas Dut it widens the scape of conventional approach of protection and further strengthens the Protected Area Network, ‘+ Existing legally protected areas (National Parks, Wild- life Sanctuary, Tiger Reserve and reserve/protected forests] may become part of the BR without any change in their legal statu. "© On the other hand, inclusion of such areas in a BR sill ‘enhance their national value. Do you know? ‘Dead and decaying tres on the ground replenish sils by returning important nutrients, and provide food resources for many types of wildlife, However, the Biosphere Reserves differ from protected areas due to their emphasis on: () Conservation of overall biodiversity and landscape, ‘ather than some specific ‘lagship species, to allow natural and evolutionary processes to continue without any hindrance (i) Different components of BRs like landscapes, habitats, and species and land races, (Gi) Developmental activities, and resalution/mitigation of conflicts between development and conservation, ) Increase in broad-basing of stakehoklers, especially local people's participation and their Training, com: pared to the features of scheme on Wildlife Sanctwar- ies and National Parks. () Sustainable environment friendly development, and sustained coordination amongst diferent development ‘organizations and agencies. (vi) Research and Monitoring to understand the structure ‘and functioning of ecological system and theit mode ‘of reaction when exposed to human intervention. ‘+ The Indian National Man and Biosphere Committee constituted by the Central Govt. identifies new sites, advises on policies and programmes, lays down guide- lines, reviews progress and guidelines in the light of evaluation studies and feed back. ‘© The Management of Biosphere Reserves is the respon: sibility ofthe concerned State/UT with necessary finan- cial assistance, guidelines for management and ‘Technical expertise provided by the Central Govern- ment. * BRare internationally recognized within the framework of UNESCO's Man and Biospivere (MAB) programme, after receiving consent ofthe participating country. Do you know? ‘The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) de- clared 2011-2020 as the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity and United Nations Decade for Deserts and the Fight against Desertification, 15.9. WORLD NETWORK OF BIOSPHERE RESERVES (WNBR) 15.9.1. The World Network ‘In order to facilitate cooperation, BRs are admitted Into International network by International Coordinat- ‘AIR Rese, No pat of hi ar nay be oped nym bay ean wit pra MPJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS AICADE! {ng Council (ICC) of the Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme of UNESCO on the request ofthe partici pating country subject to their fulfillment of prescribed criteria. ‘The BRe remain under the sole sovereignty of the con= ‘cerned country/state where it i situated, and participa tion in World Network is voluntary. Delisting from international Network is dane as an ex- ception on ground of violation of obligation for con: vation and sustainable development of Biosphere Reserves after consulting the concerned Government. ‘The MAB programme's primary achievement is the ‘reation in 1977 of the World Network of Biosphere Re~ ‘Composed of Gio binaphere reserves in 17 countries, ‘cluding 12 transboundary sites, the WNBR of the MAB. Programme promotes North-South and South-South collaboration and represents a unique tool for interna~ tional co-operation through sharing knowledge, ex changing experiences, building capacity and promoting. best practices. 15.40, BIODIVERSITY HOT SPOTS ‘© Biodiversity hot spot concept was put forth by Norman. Myers in 1988 ‘+ To qualify asa hot spot, a region must meet two strict criteria: 8, Species endemism - it must contain at least 1.500 species of vascular plants (> 0.5% of the world’s total) as endemics, and >, Degree of threat - it has to have lst atleast 7036 of its original habitat, ‘© Each biodiversity fot spot represents a remarkable ‘universe of extraorinary floral and faunal endemic- ity stroggling to survive in rapidly shrinking eco- systems. ‘+ Over 50 percent of the world’s plant species and 42. percent of all cerrestrial vertebrate species are endemic to the 3s biodiversity hotspots. 15,10.1. The hottest hot spots Some hot spots are much richer than others in terms of their numbers of endemics. ‘+ Five key factors have been taken into consideration and those biodiversity hot spot tops thelist with respect to these five factors are considered as hottest hot spots. Factors 1. Endemic plants 2. Endemic vertebrates . 43. Endemic plants/area ratio (species per rook") 4. Endemic vertebrates/area ratio (species per iookms") 5. Remaining primary vegetation as % of original extent ‘The eight hottest hot spots in terms of five factors. Madagascar Philippines ‘Sundaland Brazil Atlantic Forest Caribbean Indo-Burma ‘Western Ghats/Sri Lanka Eastern Arc and Coastal Forests of Tanzania/Kenys ‘These eight “hottest hot spote, appear at last three times in the top ten listings for each Factor. Do you know? ‘All snakes and lizards have two penises 15.10.2. Indian Biodiversity Hot Spots. ‘+ There are ¢ biodiversity hot spots present in India. They 1. The Himalayas 22 Indo- Burma and 3. The western Ghats & Sri Lanka 4 Sunderland Do you know? ‘© Spider silk, i¢looks like one thread but itis actually ‘many thin thresde that stick ragether. As son as ‘this liquid silk hits the ar it hardens. All spiders have fangs! their poison is strong ‘enough to kill their prey. few spiders with poison ‘strong enough to cause pain or even some nerve damage in humans. Spiders have 48 knees. Yup, count them. .ight legs ‘with six joints on each. Spider's legs are covered with many hairs. The hairs pick up vibrations and smells from the ait ‘Rs Rr Napa oh ae ay Berend nay fo yay mean th pera wingJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials 4. The Eastern Himalayas Hot Spot About the region: + fhe Eastern Himalayas is the region encompassing Bh “an, northeastern .ndia, and southern, central, and ‘astern Nepal. The region is geologically young and shows high altitudinal variation. + The abrupt sis of tne Himalayan Mountains from less than 500 meters to more than 8000 meters results in a versity of ecosysems that range from alhwvial grass- lands and subtropical broad laf forests along the foot hills to temperate broad Jaf forests in the mid bill, ‘mixed conifer and cenifer forests in the higher hills, and alpine meadows abcve the tree line, 2. Indo-Burma Region: ‘+ The ndo-Burma region encompasses several countries. ‘+ Iti spread out from Eastern Bangladesh to Malaysia and includes North-Eastern india south of Brahmaputra rivet, Myanmar, the southern part of China’ Yunnan province, Lao Peoples Democratic Republi, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand. 3. Western Ghats and Sri Lanka: ‘+ Western Ghats, also known as the *Sahyadri Hills encompasses the mountain forests inthe outhvvestern parts of India and highlands of southwestern Sri Lanta, # The entire extent of hotspot was originally abost +,824500 square kms but due to tremendous population Dressure, now only 2,445 square Kru or 6.89 isin Pristine condition ‘+ The wide variation of rainfall patterns in the Western Ghats, coupled withthe region’ complex geography, produces a great variety of vegetation types. ‘+ These include scrub forests in the low-lying rainshadow ‘areas and the plains, deciduous and tropical rainforests ‘up to about 1500 meters, and a unique mosaic of mon- ‘ane forests and rolling grasslands above 1500 meters, 4 In Sri Lanka diversity includes dry evergreen forests to dipterocarpus domiated rainforests to tropical mon- tane cloud forest. 15.11. BIODIVERSITY COLDSPOTS ‘+ Areas that have relatively low biological diversity but are also experiencing a high rate of habitat los, Al- ‘though a biodiversity coldepot s iow in species richness, it can also be important to conserve, as it may be the ‘only location where a rare species is found. Extreme 15. physical environments (low or bigh temperatures or ‘pressures, or unusual chemical composition) inhabited by just one or two specially adapted species are cokés- pots that warrant conservation because they represent ‘unique environments that are biologically and physi- cally interesting. 12, WORLD HERITAGE SITES ‘World Heritage Sites means “Sites any of various areas oF objects inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage List’ ‘The sites are designated as having outstanding univer- sal value under the Convention concerning the Protec- tion ofthe World Cultural and Natural Heritage. ‘This Convention, which was adopted by the UNESCO ‘in 3972 (and enforced in 1975) provides a framework for international cooperation in preserving and protecting cultural treasures and natural areas throughout the work ‘The convention defines the kind of sites which can be considered far inscription of the World heritage list (an- ‘ent monuments, museums, biodiversity and geological heritage etc), and sets out the duties of the State Far- ‘les in identifying potential sites and their role in pro- tecting them. Although many World Hectage sites fall into either the ‘cultura or ‘naturalcategories, particularly important ‘aspect ofthe convention is its ability to recognise lad- scapes that combine these values, and where the bio- logical and physical aspects of landscape have evolved alongside human activi ‘The fist list of World Heritage state was published in 1978. ‘The World Heritage Convention reiterates that the pro- tection on sites should be dovetailed with regional plan- ning programmes. Tis is mot happening always. (Agra city developments do not go well the conversation of Taj Mahal is point). “Natural heritage sites ae restricted to those natural areas that 1. furnish outstanding examples of the Earths record of life or its geologic processes. 2. provide excellent examples of ongoing ecological and biological evolutionary processes. ‘3 contain natural phenomena that are rare, unique, superative, or of outstanding beauty oF 4. furnish habitats or rare endangered animals or plants or are sites of exceptional biodiversity”. ‘Ais Renee N ar of ls material yb erode any rn yy maa wit eri ln wnJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials “sHancaRinsAcAnEMy OY 0°55 "> Until the end of 2004, there were six criteria for cultural heritage and four criteria for natural heritage. in 2005 ‘his was modified so that there is only one set of ten criteria, Nominated sites must be of “outstanding uni- versal valve” and meet at least one of the ten criteria. ‘The criteria are given below, ag.ata Criteria 1. “tozepresent a masterpiece of human creative genius"; 1T, *twexhibit an important interchange of human values, lover a span of time or within a cultural area of the ‘workl, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape de- sign?”, IIL, “to beara unique or alleast exceptional testimony toa ‘cultural tradition or toa civilization which is living or hich has disappeared?; Iv. “to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape ‘which illustrates significat stage(9 inhuman history"; \._ “tobe an outstanding example ofa traditional human settlemnet, land-use, or sea-use, which is representa tive of a culture (or cultures) or human interaction. with the environment especially when it hes become vlnerable under the impact of irreversible change"s Vi. “to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with ar- tistic and literary works of outstanding universal sig= nificance. (The Committee considers that this criterion should preferably be used in conjunction with other criteria). ‘VIL. "to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of ‘exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance’; VIlL"to be outstanding examples representing major stages of Earth's history, including the record of lif, signifi cant on-going geological prooessess inthe development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or psysio- raphic features"; 1X, “to be outstending examples representing significant ‘ongoing ecological and biological processes in the evo- tution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystem and communities of plants and animals’; X, “to contain the mast important and significant natural habitats for insists conservation of bnlogical diversity, including those containing threatened species of out- standing universal value {rom the point of view of science or conservation, ‘= ‘The UNESCO funds numerous efforts to preserve and restore World Heritage Sites in developing nations. It ‘maintains algo a List of World Heritage Sites in develop- ‘ng nations Ie maintains also a List of World Heritage in danger facing threat of poliution and other natural hazards. Sites subject to unusual levels of pollution, ‘natural hazards, or other problems may be placed for restoration. Such designated sites facilitate promotion of tourism. International Year of Biodiversity ‘The United Nations declared 2010 to be the Interna- tional Year of Biodiversity. Its a celebration of life on earth and of the value of biodiversity for our lives. Do you know? ‘There is no parrot in India, They are parakeets. International Day for Biological Diversity -a2 May + The United Nations proclaimed May 22 as The Interna- tional Day for Biological Diversity (DB) to increase un- derstanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. «+ nkielly 29 December (he date of entry into force ofthe Convention of Biological Diversity), was designated The International Day for Biological Diversity by the UN General Assembly in late 993, + In December 2009, the UN General Assembly adopted 2 Mayas IDB, to commemorate the adoption ofthe text of the Convention on 22 May 1992 by the Nairobi Final Act of the Conference forthe Adoption of the Agreed Text ofthe Convention on Biological Diversity Do you know? ‘Gymnosperms produce their seeds on the surface or tips of an appendage such as a pine cone, Angiosperms produce their seeds inside a ssuch as an acorn. Dendrachronology is the science of calculating a tree’ age by its rings. For every five percent of tree cover added toa com- ‘munity, storm water runoff is reduced by approxi ‘mately (wo percent. “Heat islands,” created by tree loss, also exponen tially increase air pollutants. ‘+ Aspirin is derived from the bark ofa willow tree. SEES Tig eae to awl yb preted an om yay vans li enon WaJoin Our Telegram Channel_http://tme/UPSCMaterials SHANICAR RS REROEMY G9 SO), ENVIRONMENT ‘Tis page lett tobe Bank kD ligase No pr hal maybe ep iam ay ny an, what eonJoin Our Telegram Channel_http://tme/UPSCMaterials “sHaneaninsecroeMy GZ". S79 ENVIRONMENT. ea> Pu CHAPTER - 16 42” w@ 16.1. PROJECT TIGER, potential example of conservation ofa highly en- 3000 m. to 130,000 kim’, including the Himalaya and Trans-Himalaya biogeo: graphic zones) support a unique wildlife assemblage of global conservation importance ‘This includes highly endangered populations of species such as the snow leopard, two species af bears, wolf, red panda, mountain ungulates such as the wild yak, chiru, Tibetan gazelle, Tibetan argali, Ladakh urial, two species of musk deer, the hangul, three species of goral, ‘serow, and takin, etc, High altitude lakes and bogs pro vide breeding grounds fora varity of avifauna includ ing the black necked erane, batheaded Geese, bahminy ducks, and brown-headed gulls, et ‘India has ratified international agreements promoting the conservation of high altitude wildlife species such as the snow leopard, ‘* In 2003, the Convention on Migratory Species included the snow leopard as a Concerted Action Species under its Appendix imilarly, in 2003, the Convention on International ‘Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) expanded the scope of the CITES Tiger Enforcement Task Force to fnclude all Asian big cat species including, the snow leopard. * In both cases, representatives ofthe MOB played a vital role in elevating the conservation prominence of the snow leopard international, ‘+ Each state will select one biologically important site and develop a science-based, participatory conservation pro {granine in that slte in the first five years of Project ‘Snow Leopard, This will be eubsoquently expanded to include other biologically important sites. 166 SECURE HIMALAYA ‘©The project was launched by the MoBF&CC in collabora tion with UNDP. The plan intends to conserve the saaw leopards by protecting their habitats and improve the ‘ecology of Himalayan ranges and lives ofthe mountain ‘communities. covers Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Sikkim. Focus areas 1. Strengthening and improving protected area network Landscape-level approach for wildlife conservation 3 Control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife 4 Mitigation of human-widlife conflicts and 5. Management of tourism in wildlife areas Bo http//tme/UPSCMaterials _ ENVIRONMENT 167, SEA TURTLE PROJECT ‘+ A significant proportion of worlds Olive Ridley Turtle population migrates every winter to Tndian coastal wa- ters for nesting malaly at eastern coast. ‘With the objective of conservation of alive ridley turtles and other endangered marine turtles, Ministry of En= vironment & Forests initiated the Sea Turtle Conserva- tion Projectin collaboration of UNDP in November, 1999 with Wildlife Institute of India, Sehradian asthe Imple- -menting Agency. ‘The project is being implemented in yo coastal rates of the country with special emphasis in State of Orissa ‘The project has helped in preparation of inventory map ‘of breeding sites of Sea Turtes, identification of nesting and breeding habitats along the shore lin, and migra- tory routes taken by Sea Turtles, development of uide- lunes to safeguard and minimize turtle mortality, ‘evelopment of national and international cooperative and collaborative action for Sea ‘Turtle Conservation, developing guideline plans for tourism in sea turtle areas and developing infrastructure and human re- sources for Sea Turtle Conservation, (One of the important achievements have been demon- stration of use of Satellite Telemetry to locate the migra- tory route of Olive Ridley Turtles in the sea and sensitizing the fishermen and State Government for the use of Turtle Exclusion Device (TED) in fishing trawlers to check turtle mortality in fishing net. ‘Do you know? Hippopotamuses are found in Aftica, The name hip- ‘Popotamus means ‘river horse’ and is often shortened tohippo. 16.8. INDIAN CROCODILE CONSERVATION PROJECT * The Indian Crocodile Conservation Project hae pulled back the once threatened crocodilians from the brink ‘of extinction and place them on a good path of recovery ‘The Project has not just produced a large number of ‘rocogies, but has contributed towards conservation in ‘a number of related fields as wel Objectives: * To protect the remaining population of crocodilians in ‘their natural habitat by creating sanctuaries. fr Ma ep aay ea ay wnt poms a WeGREJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials ‘+ To rebuild natural population quickly though “grow ane release’ or “rear and release’ technique - more than seven thousand crocodiles have been restocked - about 4000 gharial (Gavialls gangeticus), 1800 mugger (Croc ‘odylus palustris) and 1500 salt-water crocodiles (Croc odylus porosus) ‘+ To promote captive breeding, + To take-up research to improve management. ‘To build up 2 level of trained personnel fr better con- tinuity of the project through training imparted at project-sites and through the (erstwhile) Central Croc- odile Breeding and Management Training Institute, Hyderabae. + To involve the local people in the project intimately 16.9, PROJECT HANGUL + The Kashmir stag (Cervus affinis hangls) also called angol isa subspecies of Central Asian Red Deer native tonorthern India ‘+ is the state animal of jammu & kasmir This deer lives in groups of two to 18 individuals in dense riverine forests, high valleys, and mountains of tthe Kashmir valley and northern Chasubs in Himachal Pradesh. ‘© In Kashmir, it's found in Dachigam Nacional Park at ‘levations of 3,095 meters. + These deer once numbered from about 5,000 animals in the beginning of the 2oth century. Unfortunately, they were threatened, due to habitat destruction, over- grazing by domestic livestock and poaching. ‘This dwindled to as low as 150 animals by 1970. How- ‘ever, the state of Jammu & Kashmir, along with the TUCN anid the WWP prepared a project for the protec- tion of these animals. It became known as Project iangul. This brought great results and che population increased to over 340 by 1980. Do you know? Hippopotamus are threatened by habitat loss and ‘poachers who hunt them for their meat and teeth 16.10. CAPTIVE BREEDING ‘+ Captive breeding means that members ofa wild species are captured, then bred and raised in a special factlty tunder the care of wildlife biologists and other expert. © QG.0° gg BS ENVIRONMENT 4+ Bringing an animal into capt last chance to preserve asp situations: + When a population drops dangerously, captive breeding an boost numbers. Captive produced young can some times be released into the wild where popolations have diminished or disappeared, yet where suitable habitat remains to support them + When all ft existing habitat is poor quality or other environmental problems oct captive popaltion can be maintained until the problems can be solved or aa other appropriate habitat can be found fr the animal inthe wild + nen the existing hat frageneted, captive breed- ing combined with management may provide the only hope for survival by providing opportunites for genetic ming + When a group of binds stays in one area of degrade hatitat because they are behaviorally trapped, captive treding and release programs an help ther to expand their range. + By hiding and breeding birds in captivity we acquire Tnowiedge about tem that may be dif or impos- ible wo accomplish inthe wild, Sometimes this scenic research provides some of the information necessary sve a species. + lf situaton demands reintroduction or restablisiment inthe natural batt may also arise + Eq. captive breeding of in tailed macaque in Arignar ‘Anna Zoological Part, Cheanai and in rysore 200, ‘may represent the the wild in these 16.1. DOLPHIN ‘© Dolphins are animals of aquatic ecosystems. They are ound in the sea, brackish water and fresh water. A total ‘of 1g species of marine and harbour dolphins have been reported from Indian waters and coasts, Besides, the Irrawady Dolphins are found in brackish waters of (Odisha, Amongst the fresh water dolphins, the Gangetic Dolphin is found in the Ganges river and its tributaries. ‘Apart from this, Indus River Dolphins have also been reported in Indus River in Punjab. ‘All fresh water, brackish water and marine Dolph (Cetaceans) are listed in Schedule- of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, thereby according them the high ‘est degree of protection against hunting, ‘+ Gangetic Dolphin is one of the 17 species identified for raking up ‘Recovery programme of Critically Endan- gered Species, under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme ‘of ‘lategrated Development of Wildlife Habitat’ TA Rips Roe rl is yb robin lo ob am oF, Wt prion 0 WgJoin Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials dolphin conservation programme in 2016 to ensue long, term survival of dolphin and other river fauna. Ganges Dolphin © The Ministry of Environment and Forests notified the ‘Ganges River Dolphin as the National Aquatic Animal ‘* The River Dolphin inhabits the Ganges-Brahmaputra- ‘Meghna and Karnaphli-Sangu river systems of Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. * It is estimated that their total population is around 2,000 and they are listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act (1972). The Ganges Dolphin is among the four “obligate” fresh- ‘water dolphins found in the world - the other three are the ‘tai’ found in the Yangtze River (China), the ‘bhu- laa’ ofthe indus (Pakistan) and the ‘boto'of the Amazon. River (Latin America). * Although there are several species of marine dolphins ‘whose ranges include some freshwater habitats, these four species live only in rivers and lakes. ‘©The Chinese River Dolphin was declared functionally ‘extinct by a team of international scientists in 2008, Im India, the Ganges River Dolphin is threatened by river water pollution and siltation, accidental entangle- ment in fishing nets and poaching for their oil In addition, alterations to the rivers in the form of bar- sages and dams are separating populations. Various ‘organizations, including the WWF-India in Uttar Pradesh have initiated programs for conservation and re-introduction ofthe River Dolphin, Bo you know? [Nothing specified in willie protection act 1972, shall affect the hunting rights conferred on the Scheduled ‘Tribes ofthe Nicobar Islands in the Union territory of ‘Andaman and Nicobar Istands. 16.12 GOVERNMENT MEASURES TAKEN TO PREVENT THE MENACE OF WILD AN- IMAU’S ENTRY TO HUMAN HABITATS ‘© Financial assistance is provided to the State Govern- ‘ments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz, “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats, Project ‘Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ for improvement of forest and wildlife area ike the national pasa and ennctuar fee to augment food and water availablity in forests ‘which can reduce migration of animals from forests the habitations. + Construction of barriers like boundary walls and solar powered electric fences around the sensitive areas to prevent the wild animal attacks. These activities are aloo permissible under the Central assistance + Development of necessary infrastructure and support faces for immobillaation ofthe identified problematic animals through tranqilizaton, and their relocation to the natural habitat or rebabilitation fn rescue centers. © The Chief Wildlife Wardens of the States/Union Terri- tories are empowered to permit hunting of problematic animals under the provisions ofthe Wildlife (Protec- tion) Act, 1972 + Programmes ae lavached to sense people and create awareness about the Do's and Dont in ease of scare and attacks of wild animals. + Beo-development activities are undertaken in villages around Protected Areas to elicit the cooperation of com- munities in management of the Protected Areas, which includes actions to address the grievances of people National Park recently to assess the suitability ofthe park’ inclusion in the World Heritage Sit list. 16.13. INDIA ADOPTS SAWEN ‘India has adopted the Statute ofthe South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN) sand becoming its for- ‘mal member in order to strengthen ties with the mem- ‘ber countries in controlling the trans-boundary wildlife ‘crime through communication, coordination, collabora- ton, capacity building and cooperation in the region, ‘© SAWEN, a Regional network is comprised of eight coun- tries in South Asia: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, di Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sti Lanka, aims at ‘working asa strong regional inter governmental body for ‘combating wildlife crime by attempting common goals and approaches for combating illegal trae in the region. SESE SS ‘AIR Rs Ne prof atrial ey be rade in an arm or by ny eas wou paoJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials, ‘This page eft o be Blank Emp Ag Romeo prt of iain ye repay Sry yer won prin nwJoin Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials a> 4 PART-II 2”Join Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials "SHANKAR IRS RERDEMY, GZ SP) ENVIRONMENT 1A “This page left tobe bank = “ato lahat npn nayJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials limate isthe long-term average of a regions weather events, The Earth's climate is not static. Over the billions of years of earths existence, it has changed ‘many times in response to natural causes like sun spot, ce ‘age glacations, ete. “Climate change” means a change of climate which is at- ‘tibuted direct or indirectly to human activity that akers ‘the composition ofthe glabal atmosphere and which i in -sddiion to natural climate variabilty observed over com= ‘parable tine peviods. However, when today people talk about ‘climate change, ‘hey mean the changes in climate over the last 100 years “which is caused predeminantly by human activity. “The phrase ‘climate change’ represents a change in the long-term weather patterns. Climate change is not a change of weather in particular day; itis the cumulative change of long term weather pattern ie. changes in ci- rate For example i'spossible that a winter day in Jammu, could be sunny and nil, but the average weather, the climate, tells us that fammais winters will mainly be cold and include snow and ran, The change in the pattern of Jammu’ winters from the normal winter pattern repre- seats an epitome of climate change. Clitmate change is the measurable effects ofthe continual warming trend. Cinate change is usually measored in major shifts in temperature, rainfall, snow, and wind pat ‘ern lasting decades or more. Huoans are ereating climate change by burning large ‘amounts of fosi fuels (oa, il, natural gas), deforestation ‘hen forests are eut down or burned, they can no longer ‘tore carbon, ad the arboa is released to the atmosphere). 171, GLOBAL WARMING arth has warmed atan unprecedented rate over the last hundred years and particularly over the last two decades. Since 1992, each year has been one of the warmest years Se m Bi fo A an CHANGE — ni ptcot nea i ani? ‘on record, 2016 was the hottest Year on record, worldwide. ‘An upsurge in the annount of extreme weather events such ‘8 wildfires, heat waves, and strong tropical storms is also attributed “Global warming is an average increase inthe temperature ‘of the atmosphere near the Earth’s surface and in the troposphere, which can contribute to changes in global ‘dlimate patterns. Global warming can occur from a variety of causes, bth natural and human induced. In common ‘usage, “global warming” often refers to the warming that ean occur as a result of increased emissions of greenhouse gases from human activities.” 372. Global Warming ~ Impacts Rise in Sea level Changes in rainfall patterns. ‘© Increased likelihood of extreme events such as heat wave, flooding, hurricanes, ec. © Melting ofthe ice caps ‘Melting of glaciers. ‘+ Widespread vanishing of animal populations due to habitat loss Spread of disease (like malaria, etd Bleaching of Coral Reefs. ‘Loss of Plankton due to warming of seas. Do you know? Black Panther isnot a separate species. Blackness, the ‘general darkening of colour is due tothe excessive pres- ‘ence of a substance called Melanin which intensifies. pigmentation, The preduction of melanin is increased ‘where there is a combination of high temperature, humidity and reduced light. Both black and normal- ‘dloured cubs may be produced in the same liter. Ri Rg Rom rt he a ny be spre nay oy ae ens bat erin in wg‘SHANKAR IRS ACROEMY 172. GREENHOUSE EFFECT ‘The greenhouse effect is a naturally occurring phenome- non that blankets the earth lower atmosphere and warms it, maintaining the temperature suitable for living things re survive, Just as greenhouses, that keeps the alr warm inside its ‘chamber, water vapor and green house gases warms the Earth. Greenhouse gases play an important role in the balance of Earths cooling and warming. According to one estimate, in the absence of naturally oc- curring green house effect, the average temperature of the earth surface would be 20°C instead of present value of 15°C and the earth would be a frozen lifeless planet. ‘A greenhouse/ glasshouse Is a building made of glass ‘chambers in which plants are grown in cold countries or in old climate areas. There is 2 continued increase in tem- perature in green house even when the outside tempera- ture remained low. It protects plants from frost. Do you know? ‘* ‘Tree rings provide precise information about envi- ronmental events, including volcanic eruptions. Ww ENVIRONMENT 17.2.2, What is the Greenhouse Effect? oO THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT ‘The greenhouse elict isa process (similar to green house) ‘caused by greenhouse gases, which occur naturally in the atmosphere. This process plays a crucial rele in warming the Rarrh's surface, making i habitable However, human-generated greenhouse gas emissions ‘upset the natural balance and lea to increased warmth. Natural Mncon coed Leones a IA Rg ered Na jr fs nar ay be prada at fr or ayaa wt pin ngJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials SHANKAR IRS ACADEMY [Incoming Energy ‘The Sun emits energy that is transmitted to Earth. Be- ‘cause the Sun is very hot, the energy is emitted in high- ‘energy sho:t wavelengths that penetrate the Earth's ‘atmosphere ‘Absorption, ‘About 3096of the Sun's energy is reflected directly back {nto space by the atmosphere, clouds, and surface ofthe Earth, The rest of the Sun's energy is absorbed into the Earths system, Emission ‘©The Earth re-emits energy back into the atmosphere, Because the Earth is cooler than the Sun, the energy is ‘emitted in the form of infrared radiation, at wave- Jengths longer than the incoming solar energy. Role of Greenhouse Gases ‘© Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere absorb much of the long-weve energy (infrared radiation) emitted from the Earths surface, preventing it from escaping, from the Earth’ssystem. The greenhouse gases then re-emit this energy in all directions, warming the Earth's sur- face and lower atmosphere. Human Role ‘+ The atmospheric concentration of greenhouse gases has, inereased significantly over the past two centuries, largely due to human-generated carbon dioxide emis~ sions from burning fossil fuels, deforestation. ‘+ ‘This increase has amplified the nacural greenhouse ef fect by trapping more of the energy emitted by the Earth. This change causes Barth’s surface temperature to increase Do you know? No tree dies of old age. They are generally killed by insects, disease or by people. ‘Trees grow from the top, not from the bottom as is commonly believed. ‘Troe leaves help trap and remove tiny particles of, ‘soot an dust which otherwise damages human ‘Trees prevent erosion by trapping soll that would otherwise become silt QZ, 875 ENV RONMENT > 173. GREEN HOUSE GASES ‘+ Greenhouse gases means thse gaseous constituents of the atmosphere, both natural and anthropogenic, that absorbs and re-emit infrared radiation. 17a. Water vapour Water vapour is the biggest overall contributor to the ‘greenhouse effect and humans are not directly responsible ‘or emitting this gaa in quantities suficient to change its ‘concentration in the atmosphere. However, CO, and other ‘greenhouse gases is increasing the amount of water vapour in the air by boosting the rate of evaporation. Unlike CO,, which can persis in the ar for centuries, water vapour cycles through the atmosphere quickly, evaporating from the oceans and elsewhere before coming back down Since the rate of evaporation rises with temperature, the amount of water vapour in the air at any one time and the amount of warming it causes) is strongly related to the amount of other greenhouse gases in the air. 173.2. CARBON DIOXIDE = Carbon dioxide (CO, is the primary greenhouse gas emitted through human activities. Carbon dioxide 'g naturally present in the atmosphere as part of the Earth's carbon cycle (the natural circulation of car- ‘bon among the atmosphere, oceans, sail, plants, and animals). ‘+ Human activities are altering the carbon cycle both by ‘adding more CO, to the atmosphere and by reducing the natural sinks, like deforestation, to remove CO, from the atmosphere. While CO, emissions come from a variety of natural sources, human-related emissions are responsible for the increase that has occurred in the atmosphere since the industrial revolution. "The main sources {The combustion of fossil fuels to generate electricity. ji, The combustion of fossil fuels such as gesoline and diesel used for transportation lil, Many industrial processes emit CO, through fossil fel ‘Sota Rs per ois aa ay bearer ory yan wos Peon nw combustion eaJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials _ GHFINKAR IRE RCRDEMY — |v. Several processes also produce CO, emissions through chemical reactions that do not involve combustion, for example, the production and consumption of mineral products such as cement, the production of metals such as iron and stel, and the production of chemicals ete. Emissions and Trends ‘© Changes in CO, emissions from fossil fuel combustion are influenced by many factors, including population growth, economic growth, changing energy prices, new technologies, changing behavior, and seasonal temper atures ‘+ Between 1990 and 2010, the increase in CO, emissions corvesponded with increased energy use by an expand ing economy and population. Do you know? USA is the second largest Greenhouse Gas emitter presently. However, f cumulative historical emission is considered, USA would be a largest GHG emitter. So, its withdrawal will affect coatrel of cumulative slobal GHG emissions. i will also affect the availal- ity of international funds for climate change, a3 USA ‘was a contributor to climate finance. Reducing Carbon Dioxide Emi * The most effective way to reduce carbon dioxide (CO) ‘emissions is to reduce fossil fuel consumption. Other strategies include Energy Eficiency, Energy Conserva- tion, Carbon Capture and Sequestration, Do you know? ‘The pesticide industry in India, which isthe fourth largest in the world and second largest in the Asia- Pacific region, only after China, 1733. METHANE ‘© Methane (CH) is emitted by natural sources such as wetlands, as Well as human activities such a8 leakage from natural gas systems and the raising of livestock. ‘+ Natural processes in sil and chemical reactions in the atmosphere help remove CH, from the armosphere. Source Natural sources: ‘© Wetlands are the langest souree, emitting CH, from bace teria that decompose organic materials in the absence ‘of oxygen Smaller sources include termites, oceans, sediments, volcanoes, and wildfires Human induced: ‘+ Agriculture: Domestic livestock such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and samels produce large amounts of CH, as part of their rormal digestive process. Also, when animals’ manure is stored or managed in lagoons ox holding tanks, CH, is produced. Because humans raise these animals for food, the emissions are considered hhuman-related, Globally the Agriculture sector is the primary source of CH, emissions Industry: Methane isthe primary component of natural ‘gas. Some amount of CH, is emitted tothe atmosphere during the production, processing, storage, transmis- sion, and distribution of crude oll & natural gas, ‘+ Waste from Homes and Businesses: Methane is gener- ated in landfills as waste decomposes and from the ‘treatment of wastewater 'Do you know? Polar bears are the largest living carnivorous quadru- ‘ped (animals with four legs). 173.4. NITROUS OXIDE * Nitrous oxide (N,0) is naturally present in the atmos phere as part of the Earth's nitrogen cydle, and has a variety of natural sources. ‘+ However, human activities such as agriculture, fossil fuel combustion, wastewater management, and indus- ‘rial processes are increasing the amount of NO in the atmosphere, Sources Natural sources: ‘© Natural emissions of N,O are mainly from bacteria breaking down nitrogen in soils and the oceans. Human induced: Agriculture. Nitrous oxide fs emitted when people add nitrogen to the soil through the use of synthetic fertiliz- ers, Nitrous oxide is also emitted during the breakdown of nitrogen in ivestcek manure and urine, which con- tributed to 6% of N,O emissions in 2oro. ‘+ ‘Transportation, Nitrous oxide is emitted when trans- portation fuclsare burned, ‘Industry. Nitrous oxide is generated asa byproduct dar- ing the production of nitric acid, whieh is used to make ‘Riess Nort fs mali a ered any Eu yay ms thn en inJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials “SHANKAR IAS ACROEMY synthetic commercial fertilizer, and in the production ‘of adipic acid, which is used to make fibers ike nylon, and other synthetic product, = Removal: Nitrous oxide is removed from the atmos- phere when itis absorbed by certain types of bacteria ‘or destroyed by ultraviolet radiation or chemical re- actions. Do you know? ‘Telecoeras, a single-horned, hippo-like grazer, once ‘common in North America 17345. FLUORINATED GASES + They are emitted through a variety af iustrialpro- cesoes suchas aluminum and semiconductor mand facturing & Substitution for Ozone-Depleting Substances + Many urinated gases have very high global warming potentials (GWPs) relative to other greenhouse gases. Fluorinated gases are well-mixed inthe atmaspher, ‘spreading around the world after they're emitted, + Fhorinated gases are removed from the atmosphere only when they are destroyed by sunlight in the far upper atmosphere. In general, ornated gases are the sost potent and longest lasting type of greenhouse tases emited by haan act + There ae three main categories of urinated gases 1. hydrofiurocarbons (HECS, 2 perflorocarbons (FRCS), and 5. sulfur hexallurie (5) ‘Substitution for Ozone-Depleting Substances: 4+ yérofuorocarbons are sed as refrigerants, aerosol propellants, soles nd fir retardants These chem- cals were developed a8 a replacement fo chlorftuoro- carbons (CFCS) ane hydrochloroflurocarbons (HCFCS) becanse they do not deplete the stratospheric ezone layer + Unfortunately, HFCs are potent greenhouse gases with long atmospheric lifetimes and high GWPs, and they are released into the atmosphere throug leaks, servicing, and csposa of equipment in which they ae used Industry: '» Perfluorocarbons are compounds produced as a by- product of various industrial processes associated with aluminum production and the manufacturing of semi= conductors, 90° So ENVIRONMENT ‘+ Like HECs, PFCs generally have long atmospheric life- times and bigh GWPs. ‘¢ Sulfur hexafluoride is used in magnesium processing, ‘and semiconductor manufacturing, as well a tracer ‘gas for leak detection. HFC-23 is produced as ay-prod- uct of HCEC-22 production. ‘Transmission and Distribution of Electricity: vsed in electrical transmission Planting trees on denuded and waste land, along roads, railway tracks, deserted areas, watershecs, et. protects soll from erosion by.wind or water by rly binding i with roots and by diverting runoff curing rains 373.6, BLACK CARBON + Black carbon (BC) isa solid particle or aerosol, though not a gas) contributes to warming of the atmosphere. ‘Black carbon, commonly known as soot, isa form of particulate air pollutant, produced from incomplete ‘combustion. It canssts of pure carbon in several inked Source ‘© biomass burning, ‘cooking with solid fuels, and diesel exhaustete. ‘What does BC do? ‘Black carbon warms the Farth by absorbing heat inthe atmosphere and by reducing alledo, (the abilty to re- fleet sunlight) when deposited on snow and ice. + BC is the strongest absorber of sunlight and beats the airdirectl, In addition, it darkens snow packsand gla- ‘Gers through deposition and leads to melting ofice and ‘Regionally, BC disrupts cloudiness and monsoon rainfall and accelerates melting of mountain glaciers such as the Hindu Kush-Himalayan glaciers. Life time ‘+ Black carbon stays in the atmosphere for only several days to weeks. ‘¢ ‘Thus the effects of BC on the atmospheric warming and slacier retreat disappear within months of reducing ‘Si Rs Rad are nari iy epee nay oy any meas wo prin WE emiscons enJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials | SHANKAR IAS ACROEMY ‘ow far India contributes o gle? + Aconding to estimates, tween 25 and 35 percent of black cathon in the global atmosphere comes fem China and Inti emit fom the burangf wond ad cow dung in household cooling and through the we of ‘eal to heat homes. Government Measures + Project Surya as been laushed to reduce back carbon in atmosphere by introducing efficient stove technolo te, solar cooker, solar lamps and biog plans, 173.7. Brown Carbon ‘+ Brown carbon isa ubiquitous and unidentified compo- ‘nent of organic aerosol which has recently come into the forefront of atmospteric research. ‘+ Lightabsorbing organic matter (ether than soot) in at- :mospheric aerosols of various origins, eg, soil humics, hhumicclike substances (HULIS), tarry materials from combustion, bioaerosols, etc Possible Sources of Brown Carbon are * Biomass burning (possibly domestic wood burning) is shown to he a major source af brawa carbo ‘* smoke from agricultural fires may be an additional © "Brown carbon” is generally referred for greenhouse gases and “black carbon” for particles resulting from impure combustion, such assoot and dust Do you know? A flowering tree usually has a dome-shaped appear- ance and a deiquescent stem in which the main trunk divides at some distance from the ground into several ‘branches, which branch again and again, making the trunk appear to deliquese or melt away 174, CLIMATE FORCINGS ‘+ Climate “forcings” are factor in the climate system that ‘either increase or decrease the effects to the climate system. "Positive forcings such as excess greenhouse gases warm the earth while negative forcings, such as the effects of most aerosols and volcanic eruptions, actually cool the earth, '* Atmospheric aerosols include volcanic dust, sot from the combustion of fossil fuels, particles from burning forests and mineral dat. Q0)°@ Ss ENVIRONMENT ‘+ Dark carbon-rich particles such as soot from diesel en- ‘ines absorb sunlight and warm the atmosphere. Conversely, echaust from high-sulphur coal or oil pro- ‘duce light aerosols that reflect sunlight back to space, prodiucing a cooling effect. Aerosols that form naturally ‘during volcanic eruptions cool the atmosphere. Large volcanic eruptions can eject encugh ash into the atmos- phere to lower temperature for a year or more until the sulfate particles settle out ofthe atmosphere, 17.4. Forcing ‘Altering the Energy Balance ‘+ The poner ofa proces to alter the climate is estimated by its “radiative forcing,” the change inthe Earths en- ergy balance duc to that process. *+ Some timate forcings ae positive, causing gleblly av- raged warming, and some are negative, causing cool- ing. Some, suchas fom increased CO, concentration, are wellknown; others, such as from aerosols are mere vacertain, Natural Forcings ‘> Natural forcings inchude changes in the amount of en- ‘ergy emitted by the Sun, very slow variations in Earth's ‘orbit, and volcanic eruptions. ‘+ Since the start of the industrial revolution, the only, tural forcing with any long-term significance bas been ‘a small increase in solar energy reaching arch, How- ‘ever, this change is not nearly enough to account for the ‘current warming, Human-Induced Forcings © Climate forcing can also be caused by human activities. ‘These activities include greenhouse gas and aerosol emissions {rom burning fossil fuels and modifications ofthe land surface, such as deforestation. Human-Generated Greenhouse Gases ‘© Greenhouse gases are a positive climate forcing; that i, they have a warming effect, Carbon dioxide emitted from the burning of fossil fuel is presently the largest single climate forcing agent, accounting for more than half of the total positive forcing since 1750. ‘Human-Generated Aerosols ‘© Burning fossil fuels adds 2erosols to the atmosphere. ‘Aerosols are tiny particles inthe atmosphere composed ‘of many things, Including water, ie, ash, mineral dust, or acidic droplets. AD Ris env Noto hs mal ay eae any fam yy an ot pro nrJoin Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials /SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ‘+ Aerosols can deflect the Sun's energy and impact the formation and lifetime of clouds. Aerosols are a negative forcing; that is, they have a cooling effect. Causes of Climate Change ‘© While natural forcings do exist, they are not significant ‘enough to explain the recent global warming. Human activites are very tikely responsible for most of the recent warming, How to estimate the effect of each gas? ‘© Bach gas’ effect on climate change depends on ‘three main factors: 1. Hovr much ofthese gases are in the atmosphere? ‘© Concentration, oF abundance, is the amount of a particular gas in the air. Greenhouse gas ‘concentrations are measured in parts per mil- on, parts per billion, and even parts per trillion. (One part per million is equivalent to one drop of ‘water luted into about glloons of liquid (roughly the fuel tank ofa compact car} 2. How long do they stay in the atmosphere? ‘+ Bach of these gases can remain in the atmos- phere for diferent amounts of time, ranging from afew years to thousands of years. «© All ofthese gases remain inthe atmosphere Jong enough to become well mixed, meaning that the amount thats measured in the atmos- ‘hore is roughly the same all over the world, regardless ofthe source ofthe emissions. +3 How strongly do they impact global temperatures? ‘+ Some gases are more effective than others at taking the planet warmer and “thickening the Earth's blanket (green house g35) For each greenhouse gases, a Global Warming Potential (GW) has been calculated to see how long it remains in the atmosphere, on aver age, and how strongly it absorbs energy. 175. GLOBAL WARMING POTENTIAL ‘© Globat warming potential describes the impact of each, a8 on global warming. ‘¢ "The two mast important characteristics of @ GHG in ‘terms of climate impact are how well the gas absorbs WCE energy (preventing it from immediately escaping to space), and how long the gas stays in the atmos- phere. ‘© "The Global Warming Potential (GWP) for a gas is a measure of the total energy that a gas absorbs over a particular period oftime (usually 100 years), compared to carbon dioxide. ‘* Gases with a higher GWP absorb more energy, per pound, than gases wich a lower GWP, and thus contrib- ‘ute more to warming Earth, GWP & Lifetime of Green House Gases: ‘S.No Gas Gwe | LIFETIME Gsoo-year) | _ (years) 1_| carbon di oxide 1 100 2 Methane 2 a 3 | _ Nitrous oxide 30 20 4 | Hydro duoro | 4o-njoo | +270 carbons (HFC) 3 Perfluore | 6.300-9,200 | 800-50,000 ‘carbons (PFC) 6 ‘Sulfur 23,900 | 3,200 bexafivoride (SF6) Carbon dioxide (00,) has a GWP oft and serves asa base- line for other GWP values The larger the GWE, the more warming the gas causes. For example, methane’s 100-year GWP is 21, which ‘means that methane will cquse 2 times as much warm ing as an equivalent mass of carbon dioxide over a 100- year time period. ‘© Methane (CH,) has a GWP more than 20 times higher than CO, for a 100-year time scale. CH, emitted today lasts for only 12 years in the atmosphere, on average. However, on a paund-for-pound basis, CH, absorbs sore energy than CO,, making its GWP higher. + Nitrous Oxide (¥,0) has a GWP 310 times that of CO, foc a 100-year timescale. N,O emitted today remains in the atmosphere for an average of 120 years. ‘© Chloro fluoro carbons (CFCs), hydro fluoro carbons (HIFCS), hydro chloro foro carbons (HCFCS), perfuoro carbons (PFCS), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) are called hhigh-GWP gases because, fora given amount of mass, they trap substantially more heat than CO,. ‘RAR nvr pa fia nay Dereon ny farm oy any meas, wth ptm wr.Join Our Telegram Channel _http://tme/UPSCMaterials si SHANKAR IRS ACAD! EMY Do you know? Spices and condiments are flavoring ager from plants. Because they have litle nutritive value, they are not classified as foods. They contain essential ‘lls, whit: impart Mavor and aroma to food and add ‘arealy to the pleasure of eating. They stimulate the appetite and increase the flow of gastric juices. Do you know? ‘Sho forest, Temperate forest is an evergreen ecasys- {em found at the high altitude regions, I is distributed in Nilgeis and Palani hills of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. Sholas are found at sites where adjacent slope converges. These are interrupted by grasslands ecosystem with stunted evergreen woods and confined to sheltered valleys, gleeves, hallows and depressions. The man rate of shola forest is conservation of water In that rogion. I needs well drained soils andl avoids swampy soll. 176. RECEDING GLACIERS-A SYMPTOM OF GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE ‘+ 150 years ago there were 147 glaciers in Glacier National park, but today ony 37 glaciers remain, and scientists predict that they are likely to melt by the year 2030, Similan, glaciers all across the Himalayasard Alps are retreating and disappearing every year. There are al- ‘ost 160,000 glacirs found in Polar Regions and high wuntain environments. Therefore, researchers are increasingly using satelite remote seasors to routinely survey our work's glaciers ina fraction of the time. 176.1. Impact of glacial retreat The retreat of glaciers in the Andes and the Himalayas, will have a potential impact on water supplies "> Climate change may cause variations in both tempera ture and snowfall, causing changes in mass balance of a lacer Qe °° GCP ENVIRONMENT ‘+ The Himalayas and other mountain chains of central ‘Asia cupport large regions that are glaciated. These gla- Gers provide critical water supplies to dry countries such as Mongolia, western China, Pakistan and Afghan- stan. The loss of these glaciers would have a tremen- molecular chlorine It results in the formation of molecular chlorine and nitric acid. The molecular chlorine formed in the above reaction can be broken down to atomic chlorine and the ozone depletion reaction would continue. The PSCs not only ac- tivate chlorine, but they also absorb reactive nitrogen. If nitrogen oxides were present they would combine with chlorine monoxide to form a reservoir of chlorine nitrate {CIONO). Dimer of chlorine monoxide: Stratospheric chlorine mon- oxide reacts with ise forming a dimer Cla0a, This dimer is easily dissociated by sunlight, giving rise to free chlorine ‘atoms which can further reze:to destroy ozone, Every spring, «hole as big asthe USA develops in the ‘one layer over Antarctica, in the South Pole, A. smaller hole develops each year over the Arctic, a the North Pole. And there are signs that the czone layer is getting thinner all over the plane. 19.15. Why is the Ozone Depletion predominant at the Antarctic? '*| The Antarctic stratosphere is much colder. The low tem- perature enables the formation of Polar strataspherie ‘Clouds (PCS), below 20 km. ‘© Ozone absorbs sunlight, causing the characteristic n- ‘crease in temperature with increase in altitude in the ‘stratosphere. If ozone is being depleted, the air becomes cooler, further adding to the favourable conditions for the formation of PSCs and stabilization of the vortex. ‘The vortex isa ring of rapidly circulating air that con- fines the ozone depletion in the Antarctic region. ‘+ The longetvity ofthe Antarctic vortex is another factor, ‘enhancing favourable contitions for the depletion of ‘ozone. The vortex remains, in fac, throughout the polar ‘winter, well into midepring whereas the vortex in the Arctic disintegrates by the time the polar spring (March- ‘April arrives '* ‘Typical happenings in the winter months leading to the ‘Ozone Depletion over the Antarctic, '* In June Antarctic winter begins, the vortex develops and the temperature falls enough for the clouds to form, ‘© During July and August PSCs denitrfy and dehydrate the stratosphere through prespiation, hydrochloric acid and chlorine nitrate reacton clad surfaces to fee chlo- tine and winter temperatures drops tp their lowest Point + In September sunlight returns othe centre ofthe vor- tex a5 the austral spring begins and PSCs disappear because of increasing temperature, C10-C10 and C1O- BrO catalytic cycles destroy ozone + During October lowest lvesof ozone are reached, *+ In November, Polar vortex breaks down, czone-rch are from the midattdes replenishes the Antarctic strat- sphere and ozonepoor air spreads over the southern hemisphere. 19.16. Arctic Ozone Depletion + The Ozone Depletion has been increasingly evident over the Arctic as wel, The Arctic Ozone Depletion which sweptacross Britain in March 96 was the greatest depletion of ozone ever seen in the northern hemisphere. ‘Scientists claim that it had been caused, in past, by @ dramatic cooling ofthe upper atmosphere in the north- ern latitudes over, ‘The ozone depletion over the northern hemisphere has been increasing steadily ince the winter of 1992. Apart from the build-up of ozone depleting chemical, ‘the main cause is the increasing cold temperature in the arctic stratosphere which encourages the formmula- tion of PSC. How ozone is measured? ‘+ The ozone measurement instruments and tech- ‘niques are varied. Some of them are the Dobson spectrophotometer and the filter zonometer called ‘M83, and total ozone mapping spectrometer (TOMS) in the Nimbus-7 satelite ‘The Umheher technique * ‘The most common measure of total ozone abun- dances the Dobson uni named ater toe ploneer- ‘ng atmospheric physical Gordon Dobsce) which is the thickness of the ozone column (compressed at Standard Temperature and Preseure (STP)) in nili-centimeters, At STP one Dobson units equal to 2.6gxioz0 molecules per square meter Al ih ose No pat of thi arial maybe reeds any rm ory any ena wit peal wringJoin Our Telegram Channel _http//tme/UPSCMaterials “SHAR RSAcApENY GZ °°) 095 ENVIRONMENT Decrease in the quantity of total-column ozone; tend to cause increased penetration of solar UV-B radiation {(290-31gnm) to the earth's surface. UV-B radiation is the ‘most energetic component of sunlight reaching the ‘earth's surface. It has profound effects on human health, ‘animals, plants, micro-organisms, materials and on air ‘quality. [Effects of human and animal health ‘+ Potential risks include an increase in the incidence of, ‘and morbidity from eye diseases, skin cancer and infec- tious diseases. ‘© UV radiation fas been shown in experimental systems to damage the cornea and lens ofthe eye. Experiments in animals show that UV exposure decreases the im- ‘mune response to skin cancers, infectious agents and ‘other antigens and can lead to unresponsiveness upon repeated challenges. In susceptible (light-skin coloured) populations, UV-B. radiations isthe key isk factor for development of non ‘melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). Do you know? [All the chameleons have the ability to change color ‘whenever they are subject to changes instill, ke ‘a change in light, temperature or emotion. For exam- ple, when angered, they are likely to become darker in coker Effects on terrestrial plants + Paychological and developmental processes of pnts are affected by UV-B radiation. ‘+ Response to UV-B also varies considerably among spe- cies and also cultivars ofthe same species. In agricul ture, this will necessitate using more UV-B tolerant cultivars and breeding new ones. ‘In forests and grasslands, this is likely to result in ‘changes in the composition of species; therefore there are implications for the biodiversity in different ceo systems. + Indirect changes caused by UV-B such as changes in plant form, biomass allocation to parts of the plant, timing of developmental phases and second metabolism ‘may be equally or sometimes more important that the damaging effects of UV-B. [Effects on aquatic ecosystems ‘+ Exposure to solar UV-B radiation has been shown to affect both orientation mechanisms ané motility in phy- toplankcon, resulting in reduced survival rates for these organisms. ‘+ Solar UV-B radiation has been found to cause damage in the early developmental stages of fish, shrimp, crab, ‘amphibians and other animals. The most severe effects are decreased reproductive capacity and impaired larval development. _Bffects on bio-geochemical cycles ‘+ Increases in solar UY radiation could affect terrestrial ‘and aquatic bio-geochemical cycles, thus, altering both soutees and sinks of greenhouse and chemically impor tant trace pases. ‘+ These potential changes would contribute to bio-sphere atmosphere feedbacks that reinforce the atmospheric build-up of these gases. Effects on air quality + Reduction in stratospheric ozone and the concomitant Increase in UV-B radiation penetrating to the lower atmosphere result in higher photo dissociation rates of key trace gases that contro! the chemical reactivity of the troposphere. ‘* This can increase both production and destruction of ‘ozone (0,) and related axidants such as hydrogen per~ oxide (H,0), which are knawn to have adverse effects ‘on human health, terrestrial plants, and outdoor mate- rials. Changes in the atmospheric concentrations of the hy-

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