What are Greenhouse Gases?

The greenhouse gases responsible for the greenhouse effect are:

● Water Vapour
● Carbon Dioxide
● Methane
● Ozone
The excessive burning of fossil fuels such as petrol, coal, etc. has resulted in an increase in the
number of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere resulting in a phenomenon known as Global
Warming. This is an increase in the ambient temperature of Earth which negatively affects the
life on Earth.

Causes of Greenhouse Effect

The following are the factors that are responsible for the cause of greenhouse effect:

● Deforestation: This is considered to be one of the most responsible factors for the cause
of the greenhouse effect. This is due to the reduction in the release of oxygen and
absorption of carbon dioxide by the plants.
● Fossil fuel burning: Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gases are used as a means
of energy which releases a huge amount of harmful gases into the environment.
● Population: As the population increases, the need for space increases which again
results in deforestation.

Prevention of Greenhouse Effect

Afforestation: Afforestation on a large scale area helps in decreasing the release of

carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

● Conservation of energy: Switching to renewable sources of energy such as solar energy,

wind energy, etc will reduce the use of fossil fuels. This eventually reduces the release
of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
● Policy intervention: When the government comes up with strict policies to maintain the
overall air quality of the city.

Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming

Global warming refers to the increasing temperature of the Earth’s climate system .Scientific
evidence has conclusively proven that the Earth’s temperature is rising and has risen by
0.85oC. This has an impact that has affected different regions differently. The effects include
rising sea levels, retreating glaciers, loss of sea ice in the poles, increasing temperatures,
expansion of deserts, etc.
This raises significant threats for humans such as food security from decreasing crop yields,
and submergence of a low-lying area due to the rising sea level. The greenhouse effect plays
an important role in the rising temperature. And hence to restrict global warming we need to limit
the greenhouse effect and the gaseous emissions that cause the greenhouse effect.
Fourteen of the fifteen years in the 21st century have been the hottest years on record with
constant occurrences of extreme weather, cyclones, droughts, floods, etc. All these events are
some way or the other have an association with the greenhouse effect and global warming.

Global Warming
Global warming is the phenomenon of a gradual increase in the temperature near the earth’s surface.
This phenomenon has been observed over the past one or two centuries. This change has disturbed the
climatic pattern of the earth. The temperature of the earth is rising constantly.
There are several causes of global warming, which have a negative effect on humans, plants and
animals. These causes may be natural or might be the outcome of human activities. In order to curb the
issues, it is very important to understand the negative impacts of global warming.

Causes of Global Warming

Following are the major causes of global warming:

Man-made Causes of Global Warming

Deforestation
Plants are the main source of oxygen. They take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen thereby
maintaining environmental balance. Forests are being depleted for many domestic and commercial
purposes. This has led to an environmental imbalance, thereby giving rise to global warming.
Use of Vehicles
The use of vehicles, even for a very short distance results in various gaseous emissions. Vehicles burn
fossil fuels which emit a large amount of carbon dioxide and other toxins into the atmosphere resulting
in a temperature increase.
Chlorofluorocarbon
With the excessive use of air conditioners and refrigerators, humans have been adding CFCs into the
environment which affects the atmospheric ozone layer. The ozone layer protects the earth surface
from the harmful ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun. The CFCs have led to  ozone layer depletion making
way for the ultraviolet rays, thereby increasing the temperature of the earth.
Industrial Development
With the advent of industrialization, the temperature of the earth has been increasing rapidly. The
harmful emissions from the factories add to the increasing temperature of the earth.
In 2013, the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change reported that the increase in the global
temperature between 1880 and 2012 has been 0.9 degrees Celsius. The increase is 1.1 degrees Celsius
when compared to the pre-industrial mean temperature.
Agriculture
Various farming activities produce carbon dioxide and methane gas. These add to the greenhouse gases
in the atmosphere and increase the temperature of the earth.
Overpopulation
An increase in population means more people breathing. This leads to an increase in the level of carbon
dioxide, the primary gas causing global warming, in the atmosphere.

Natural Causes of Global Warming

Volcanoes
Volcanoes are one of the largest natural contributors to global warming. The ash and smoke emitted
during volcanic eruptions goes out into the atmosphere and affects the climate.
Water Vapour
Water vapour is a kind of greenhouse gas. Due to the increase in the earth’s temperature, more water
gets evaporated from the water bodies and stays in the atmosphere adding to global warming.
Melting Permafrost
Permafrost is frozen soil that has environmental gases trapped in it for several years and is present
below Earth’s surface. It is present in glaciers. As the permafrost melts, it releases the gases back into
the atmosphere, increasing Earth’s temperature.
Forest Blazes
Forest blazes or forest fires emit a large amount of carbon-containing smoke. These gases are released
into the atmosphere and increase the earth’s temperature resulting in global warming.
Effects of global warming
Hotter temperatures

As greenhouse gas concentrations rise, so does the global surface temperature. The last decade, 2011-
2020, is the warmest on record. Since the 1980s, each decade has been warmer than the previous one.
Nearly all land areas are seeing more hot days and heat waves. Higher temperatures increase heat-
related illnesses and make working outdoors more difficult. Wildfires start more easily and spread more
rapidly when conditions are hotter. Temperatures in the Arctic have warmed at least twice as fast as the
global average.

More severe storms

Destructive storms have become more intense and more frequent in many regions. As temperatures
rise, more moisture evaporates, which results in extreme rainfall and flooding, causing more destructive
storms. The frequency and extent of tropical storms is also affected by the warming ocean. Cyclones,
hurricanes, feed on warm waters at the ocean surface. Such storms often destroy homes and
communities, causing deaths and huge economic losses.

Increased drought

Climate change is changing water availability, making it scarcer in more regions. Global warming results
in issue of water shortages in already water-stressed regions and is leading to an increased risk of
agricultural droughts affecting crops, and ecological droughts increasing the vulnerability of ecosystems.
Droughts can also stir destructive sand and dust storms that can move billions of tons of sand across
continents. Deserts are expanding, reducing land for growing food. Many people now face the threat of
not having enough water on a regular basis.
A warming, rising ocean

The ocean soaks up most of the heat from global warming. The rate at which the ocean is warming
strongly increased over the past two decades, across all depths of the ocean. As the ocean warms, its
volume increases since water expands as it gets warmer. Melting ice sheets also cause sea levels to rise,
threatening coastal and island communities. In addition, the ocean absorbs carbon dioxide, keeping it
from the atmosphere. But more carbon dioxide makes the ocean more acidic, which endangers marine
life and coral reefs.

Loss of species

Climate change poses risks to the survival of species on land and in the ocean. These risks increase as
temperatures climb. Exacerbated by climate change, the world is losing species at a rate 1,000 times
greater than at any other time in recorded human history. One million species are at risk of becoming
extinct within the next few decades. Forest fires, extreme weather, and invasive pests and diseases are
among many threats related to climate change. Some species will be able to relocate and survive, but
others will not.

Not enough food

Changes in the climate and increases in extreme weather events are among the reasons behind a global
rise in hunger and poor nutrition. Fisheries, crops, and livestock may be destroyed or become less
productive. With the ocean becoming more acidic, marine resources that feed billions of people are at
risk. Changes in snow and ice cover in many Arctic regions have disrupted food supplies from herding,
hunting, and fishing. Heat stress can diminish water and grasslands for grazing, causing declining crop
yields and affecting livestock.

More health risks

Climate change is the single biggest health threat facing humanity. Climate impacts are already harming
health, through air pollution, disease, extreme weather events, forced displacement, pressures on
mental health, and increased hunger and poor nutrition in places where people cannot grow or find
sufficient food. Every year, environmental factors take the lives of around 13 million people. Changing
weather patterns are expanding diseases, and extreme weather events increase deaths and make it
difficult for health care systems to keep up.

Poverty and displacement

Climate change increases the factors that put and keep people in poverty. Floods may sweep away
urban slums, destroying homes and livelihoods. Heat can make it difficult to work in outdoor jobs. Water
scarcity may affect crops. Over the past decade (2010–2019), weather-related events displaced an
estimated 23.1 million people on average each year, leaving many more vulnerable to poverty. Most
refugees come from countries that are most vulnerable and least ready to adapt to the impacts of
climate change
Causes of global warming

Generating power

Generating electricity and heat by burning fossil fuels causes a large chunk of global emissions. Most
electricity is still generated by burning coal, oil, or gas, which produces carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide
– powerful greenhouse gases that blanket the Earth and trap the sun’s heat. Globally, a bit more than a
quarter of electricity comes from wind, solar and other renewable sources which, as opposed to fossil
fuels, emit little to no greenhouse gases or pollutants into the air.

Manufacturing goods

Manufacturing and industry produce emissions, mostly from burning fossil fuels to produce energy for
making things like cement, iron, steel, electronics, plastics, clothes, and other goods. Mining and other
industrial processes also release gases, as does the construction industry. Machines used in the
manufacturing process often run on coal, oil, or gas; and some materials, like plastics, are made from
chemicals sourced from fossil fuels. The manufacturing industry is one of the largest contributors to
greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.

Cutting down forests

Cutting down forests to create farms or pastures, or for other reasons, causes emissions, since trees,
when they are cut, release the carbon they have been storing. Each year approximately 12 million
hectares of forest are destroyed. Since forests absorb carbon dioxide, destroying them also limits
nature’s ability to keep emissions out of the atmosphere. Deforestation, together with agriculture and
other land use changes, is responsible for roughly a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Using transportation

Most cars, trucks, ships, and planes run on fossil fuels. That makes transportation a major contributor of
greenhouse gases, especially carbon-dioxide emissions. Road vehicles account for the largest part, due
to the combustion of petroleum-based products, like gasoline, in internal combustion engines. But
emissions from ships and planes continue to grow. Transport accounts for nearly one quarter of global
energy-related carbon-dioxide emissions. And trends point to a significant increase in energy use for
transport over the coming years.

Producing food

Producing food causes emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and other greenhouse gases in various
ways, including through deforestation and clearing of land for agriculture and grazing, digestion by cows
and sheep, the production and use of fertilizers and manure for growing crops, and the use of energy to
run farm equipment or fishing boats, usually with fossil fuels. All this makes food production a major
contributor to climate change. And greenhouse gas emissions also come from packaging and distributing
food.

Powering buildings

Globally, residential and commercial buildings consume over half of all electricity. As they continue to
draw on coal, oil, and natural gas for heating and cooling, they emit significant quantities of greenhouse
gas emissions. Growing energy demand for heating and cooling, with rising air-conditioner ownership, as
well as increased electricity consumption for lighting, appliances, and connected devices, has
contributed to a rise in energy-related carbon-dioxide emissions from buildings in recent years.

Consuming too much

Your home and use of power, how you move around, what you eat and how much you throw away all
contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. So does the consumption of goods such as clothing, electronics,
and plastics. A large chunk of global greenhouse gas emissions are linked to private households. Our
lifestyles have a profound impact on our planet. The wealthiest bear the greatest responsibility: the
richest 1 per cent of the global population combined account for more greenhouse gas emissions than
the poorest 50 per cent.

Effects of Global Warming

Following are the major effects of global warming:

Rise in Temperature
Global warming has led to an incredible increase in earth’s temperature. Since 1880, the earth’s
temperature has increased by ~1 degrees. This has resulted in an increase in the melting of glaciers,
which have led to an increase in the sea level. This could have devastating effects on coastal regions.

Threats to the Ecosystem

Global warming has affected the coral reefs that can lead to the loss of plant and animal lives. Increase
in global temperatures has made the fragility of coral reefs even worse.

Climate Change
Global warming has led to a change in climatic conditions. There are droughts at some places and floods
at some. This climatic imbalance is the result of global warming.

Spread of Diseases
Global warming leads to a change in the patterns of heat and humidity. This has led to the movement of
mosquitoes that carry and spread diseases.

High Mortality Rates

Due to an increase in floods, tsunamis and other natural calamities, the average death toll usually
increases. Also, such events can bring about the spread of diseases that can hamper human life.

Loss of Natural Habitat

A global shift in the climate leads to the loss of habitats of several plants and animals. In this case, the
animals need to migrate from their natural habitat and many of them even become extinct. This is yet
another major impact of global warming on biodiversity.
Greenhouse Gases
“Greenhouse gases are the gases that absorb the infrared radiations and create a greenhouse effect.
For eg., carbon dioxide and chlorofluorocarbons.”

 
The major contributors to the greenhouse gases are factories, automobiles, deforestation, etc. The
increased number of factories and automobiles increases the amount of these gases in the atmosphere.
The greenhouse gases never let the radiations escape from the earth and increase the surface
temperature of the earth. This then leads to global warming.

Causes of Greenhouse Effect

The major causes of the greenhouse effect are:

Burning of Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels are an important part of our lives. They are widely used in transportation and to produce
electricity. Burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide. With the increase in population, the utilization
of fossil fuels has increased. This has led to an increase in the release of greenhouse gases in the
atmosphere.

Deforestation
Plants and trees take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Due to the cutting of trees, there is a
considerable increase in the greenhouse gases which increases the earth’s temperature.

Farming
Nitrous oxide used in fertilizers is one of the contributors to the greenhouse effect in the atmosphere.

Industrial Waste and Landfills

The industries and factories produce harmful gases which are released in the atmosphere.
Landfills also release carbon dioxide and methane that adds to the greenhouse gases.
 

Effects of Greenhouse Effect

The main effects of increased greenhouse gases are:

Global Warming
It is the phenomenon of a gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere. The
main cause for this environmental issue is the increased volumes of greenhouse gases such as carbon
dioxide and methane released by the burning of fossil fuels, emissions from the vehicles, industries and
other human activities.
Depletion of  Ozone Layer
Ozone Layer protects the earth from harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. It is found in the upper
regions of the stratosphere. The depletion of the ozone layer results in the entry of the harmful UV rays
to the earth’s surface that might lead to skin cancer and can also change the climate drastically.
The major cause of this phenomenon is the accumulation of natural greenhouse gases including
chlorofluorocarbons, carbon dioxide, methane, etc.

Smog and Air Pollution

Smog is formed by the combination of smoke and fog. It can be caused both by natural means and man-
made activities.
In general, smog is generally formed by the accumulation of more greenhouse gases including nitrogen
and sulfur oxides. The major contributors to the formation of smog are automobile and industrial
emissions, agricultural fires, natural forest fires and the reaction of these chemicals among themselves.

Acidification of Water Bodies

Increase in the total amount of greenhouse gases in the air has turned most of the world’s water bodies
acidic. The greenhouse gases mix with the rainwater and fall as acid rain. This leads to the acidification
of water bodies.
Also, the rainwater carries the contaminants along with it and falls into the river, streams and lakes
thereby causing their acidification.

Runaway Greenhouse Effect

This phenomenon occurs when the planet absorbs more radiation than it can radiate back. Thus, the
heat lost from the earth’s surface is less and the temperature of the planet keeps rising.
This phenomenon is believed to have occurred in the following manner:

● A runaway greenhouse effect arises when the temperature of a planet rises to a level of the
boiling point of water. As a result, all the water from the oceans converts into water vapour,
which traps more heat coming from the sun and further increases the planet’s temperature.
This eventually accelerates the greenhouse effect. This is also called the “positive feedback
loop”.
● There is another scenario giving way to the runaway greenhouse effect. Suppose the
temperature rise due to the above causes reaches such a high level that the chemical reactions
begin to occur. These chemical reactions drive carbon dioxide from the rocks into the
atmosphere. This would heat the surface of the planet which would further accelerate the
transfer of carbon dioxide from the rocks to the atmosphere, giving rise to the runaway
greenhouse effect.
In simple words, increasing the greenhouse effect gives rise to a runaway greenhouse effect which
would increase the temperature of the earth to such an extent that no life will exist in the near future.
 CAUSES OF GLOBAL WARMING

Global warming, which refers to the long-term increase in the Earth's average surface temperature, has
a number of consequences. Some of the consequences are:

1. Rising sea levels: As global temperatures increase, ice caps and glaciers melt, leading to rising sea levels.
This can lead to coastal flooding and displacement of people living in low-lying areas.
2. Extreme weather events: Global warming can lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts,
floods, hurricanes, and other extreme weather events.
3. Loss of biodiversity: As temperatures rise, some species may not be able to adapt and could go extinct.
This can lead to a loss of biodiversity and disrupt ecosystems.
4. Health impacts: Higher temperatures can lead to more cases of heat stroke, dehydration, and other
heat-related illnesses. Climate change can also exacerbate air pollution and lead to increased cases of
respiratory problems.
5. Economic impacts: Climate change can have significant economic impacts, including damage to
infrastructure, decreased agricultural productivity, and increased healthcare costs.
6. Political instability: Climate change can exacerbate existing political tensions and lead to political
instability in some regions.

Overall, global warming is a serious threat to the planet and its inhabitants, and urgent action is needed
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit its impact.

Desertification – Degradation of Fertile Land

Desertification is the degradation process by which a fertile land changes itself into a desert by losing its
flora and fauna, this can be caused by drought, deforestation, climate change, human activities or
improper agriculture. Desertification is a process of degradation of the land. It occurs because of man-
made activities and climate change. Desertification takes place when a particular type of biome converts
into a desert biome. 

What is the process of desertification?

Desertification is a process by which fertile land is transformed into desert as it becomes progressively
drier and unable to support any plant growth for food production. Unlike the natural desert ecosystem
with well-adapted species still inhabiting the area, decertified lands are often devoid of natural life
without a healthy ecosystem in place that would perform life-supporting services, like new soil
formation and nutrient cycling. This is what makes the reversal of the process extremely difficult.

The official definition by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) that has
been widely used since it’s formulation in 1994 is: “desertification is land degradation in arid, semi-arid
and dry sub-humid areas resulting from various factors, including climatic fluctuations and human
activities.” UNCCD also highlights that it is important to note that desertification is not a natural process
of deserts expanding to new regions; it is a form of land degradation caused primarily by human
activity in vulnerable areas. 

What causes desertification?

Lands turn to desert due to a number of reasons, but much of the desertification that is occurring
around the world today is caused by human activity on lands that are extremely vulnerable to
overexploitation and improper agricultural methods.

The following are some of the primary causes of desertification in our world.

#1 Overgrazing

Overgrazing and desertification have been always closely linked together.

In dry regions, grass and other small vegetation is necessary to keep the soil in place to prevent erosion
and further damage to the soil. However, it is the paradox of life that especially in these vulnerable
regions, animal herding is often the only livelihood people can have and there are no restrictions in
place that would regulate the maximum number of animals for a given space.

When people gather and keep too many animals in one area, grasses start dying because their roots are
often weakened by animals constantly stepping on them and plucking out newly re-growing parts before
plants have time to grow resistant enough and to multiply.

After some time, no vegetation remains to prevent soil from blowing or washing away. So, people move
the livestock to another piece of land where the process repeats. If this occurs long enough, it leads to
extensive desertification.

Overgrazing has become a problem that has escalated into an ecological and agricultural collapse in the
country.

#2 Unsustainable agriculture techniques

The world’s dry lands cover approximately 40 percent of the total land mass. They are home to more
than 2 billion people, so it is clear that many of these areas are farmed, even though they are very
fragile and can easily turn barren.

Through inconsiderate farming methods like heavy tilling, planting of unsuitable crops and leaving soils
exposed to wind and rain erosion, farmers only speed up the process of desertification in exchange for
poor quality crops with low economic value. Besides, while preparing the soil for sowing, natural
vegetation that holds the brittle soil in place is removed, letting the last bits of the productive soil layer
fully wear away in just a few short seasons.

Another common problem of the crop cultivation in vulnerable areas is the employment of improper
irrigation methods, such as canal irrigation. These irrigation methods often lead to a buildup of salt in
soils. Increased salinity happens because irrigation water mobilizes naturally occurring salt in these soils.
Additionally, artificially added water also rises otherwise low groundwater level which in turn dissolves
even more salts [7].

Salt buildup on cultivated lands, then, makes it difficult for crops and other plants to grow, further
exacerbating degradation of these lands.

#3 Deforestation

Villages that were once surrounded by forests so dense that you could get lost in them, are now
disappearing under the sand. 

Deforestation is one of the leading human causes of desertification. Forests are being cut down at much
larger scale than ever before, to be used as fuel, to provide products we use in our daily life, or to simply
create more space for agriculture to sustain growing human population.

When the trees and other vegetation in an area are gone, there are no roots that would hold soils in
place, there is no canopy that would shield the ground from the direct rainfall or from the sun’s heat.
The bare soil then easier dries out and turns to dust, which can be blown and washed away in a single
storm.

Once the soil is degraded and the precious nutrients are lost, only infertile and lifeless swaths of land are
left behind. And what’s more, without trees, even the local climate becomes drier due to the lack of
water evaporation & transpiration from tree canopy, which reduces cloud formation in the region and
results in less rain.

#4 Unsustainable water management

Dry lands, the most susceptible areas to desertification, are characterized by a scarcity of water during
certain periods of the year. This means that the original ecosystem of these lands is well-adapted to
withstand dry seasons during which plants enter so called summer dormancy, a temporary cessation of
growth, in order to preserve themselves, only to turn green and strong as soon as rains come again.

But the problem appears when we try to change these natural cycles and expect a steady crop
production or sufficient pasture for livestock from these lands all year long. Under circumstances like
these, people often over extract water from available resources like creeks, rivers or even groundwater
to irrigate the crops.

The problem of worsening desertification doesn’t have to be linked only to agricultural lands,
unsustainable water management happens even in cities and tourist destinations that are build in arid
or semi-arid areas. These places often draw high amounts of groundwater from natural aquifers, not
letting them naturally replenish and eventually facing water scarcity just like Cape Town in South Africa.
#5 Overpopulation and overexploitation of natural resources

Our planet’s ecosystems sustain life only when balanced. They can cope with incremental challenges
and adapt, but beyond a certain tipping point they collapse. Unfortunately, desertification is a proof that
in some places, we have reached this tipping point.

A rapid increase in human population, especially in vulnerable areas of Africa and Asia, has exceeded the
recovery capacity of dryland ecosystems. More people means higher demand for natural resources
(including water(!) and space to grow food and build settlements. But trying to provide for more people
easily results in overexploitation of available resources, even if unwillingly.

#6 Urbanization and development of tourism

This means that natural resources, which are continuously needed for the proper functioning of any
densely inhabited area, have to be taken from the surrounding environment. However, as the trend of
urbanization increases, the demand for resources only grows bigger, drawing more and more resources
and leaving behind degraded lands that easily succumb to desertification.

Furthermore, additional problem arises from the space problems. As cities expand, more land in the
vicinity is used for the development projects. Even though this often represents fertile land that would
have been suitable for agriculture more. Land degradation due to urbanization has affected strongly
many countries such as Egypt, Iraq, Turkey, Spain and other places with hot climate, where urban and
tourist areas spread along the rivers or coastlines, sealing these lands and pushing farming away onto
marginal lands, which will only accelerate their desertification over the time [11].

#8 Climate change

So much could be written about the effects of climate change on the health of our lands, as climate
change can lead to land degradation for many reasons, and it is very often climate change that
exacerbates the progress of desertification in increasingly many places.

. With less permanent vegetation that would help retain moisture in soils and with less moisture
evaporating into the air from plants, less clouds form in that particular area. That means also less rain
throughout the year.

With significantly reduced rainfall, drought occurs and triggers problems such as failing harvests, drying
creeks and boreholes, poor pasture that weakens livestock, and more frequent outbreaks of wildfires
that destroy remaining vegetation.
What are the effects of desertification?

UNCCD is stated: “Desertification is a silent, invisible crisis that is destabilizing communities on a global

scale.”

The document further goes on examining the serious and complex web of problems that have arisen
from worsening land degradation of the earth’s drylands, which are home to 2,000 million people,
comprise of 44 percent of all the world’s cultivated land and should sustain 50 percent of the world’s
livestock [13].

#1 Vegetation is damaged or destroyed

Desertification reduces the ability of land to support plant life. Loose soil buries plants or exposes their
roots to the sun, so they cannot fulfill their function. With plants dying, already scarce rainwater gets
washed away instead of being drawn into the soil, which only scales up the problem as remaining plants
do not have enough moisture to survive dry spells as they used to.

Additionally, if the land is used for grazing at this stage, it only results in a quicker loss of plant species
and total degradation.

#2 Soil becomes infertile

As desertification occurs, this most productive layer of the soil gets blown or washed away from the
surface rather quickly because there is no vegetation that would protect it, and nutrients with organic
material are lost for good. As the soil dries out, it hardens, and it becomes difficult for any rainfall that
does occur to penetrate below the soil’s surface.

Due to unfavorable conditions, plants grown on these damaged soils strive and often do not produce
sufficient yields. What remains left is only a lifeless pile of dust instead of a life-giving medium.

Furthermore, through the use of unsustainable irrigation techniques, salt concentration can also rise in
many cultivated soils, rendering the soil useless for growing crops or other plants.

#3 Soil erosion gets worse

Increased water runoff from decertified areas wreaks havoc on neighboring lands, eroding soils,
damaging vegetation and making soils extremely vulnerable to encroaching desert.

When this happens, weakening soils get also directly exposed to wind, which often picks up last pieces
of drying topsoil and mixes them with dust from already degraded parts, exacerbating the problem and
creating far-reaching dust storms.
#4 Increased vulnerability to natural disasters

Desertification makes natural disasters worse because it reduces natural resilience of ecosystems. This
means that affected areas and even adjacent areas have compromised capacity of withstanding extreme
weather events. Desertification also increases vulnerability of whole regions to the unpredictable effects
of climate change.

Events such as flash floods, landslides and dust storms, become stronger in areas with heavily degraded
soils. Without plants stabilizing the soil and slowing down the runoff, rainwater flows faster and floods
human settlements in the blink of an eye.

#5 Polluted sources of drinking water

Vegetation plays an important role in cleaning our water. Plants and trees function like natural water
filters, storing pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticide residues, fertilizers and other, in their own
bodies. As mentioned previously, grasses and other perennial plants also prevent water runoff by
slowing it down and promoting rainwater infiltration into soils.

Barren soils lack this green filter, and therefore, many harmful substances enter groundwater reservoirs
or easily wash off into lakes and rivers.

Besides constantly eroding soils by creating gullies and channels each time it rains, water also picks up
loosen soil particles and transports them into water bodies. This leads to increased sedimentation
and eutrophication–both processes disturb aquatic ecosystems and deteriorate water quality.

#7 Forcing mass migrations

People have been always on the lookout for fertile lands where they can build their settlements and
prosper over long time periods. It is no wonder, that throughout history, desertification events have
been a major driver behind migrations of large human populations.

#8 Caused historical collapses of civilizations

There are many historical accounts of how various people groups throughout human history
experienced collapse of their civilization as drought and desertification occurred to their lands. The
reason is simple, people lost their ability to grow food, water resources became scarce and their animals
got weak from not having enough to eat.

These negative events are directly linked to the wellbeing of people. As soon as livelihoods are
endangered, people turn against each other, which sets in motion series of events that lead to the
collapse.
Examples of civilizations that met their doom due to droughts include the Carthage Civilization, the
Harappan Civilization, people groups in Ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, and people groups in
Ancient China [22].

#9 Extinction of species

Extended droughts, prolonged flooding or sudden extreme changes in temperature can deplete food
sources of species causing starvation. Species that once lived in a fertile and productive climate may not
survive in a newly desertified region.

With a changing ecosystem, species must adapt to their new climate or migrate to a more favorable
climate. If they fail to do so, they will become extinct for their inability to cope with a sudden change of
their environment.

This is another very alarming aspect of the desertification problem, because we need biodiverse
ecosystems to survive. We need abundance of plants and animal species richness to have oxygen to
breathe, clean water to drink and nutritious food to eat. If biodiverse ecosystems disappear, we will be
left with pollution, drought, hunger and lack of resources.

Steps To Reduce Desertification

● Focus on Water management. Rainwater harvest must be done, water that can be reused must
not be left out as waste
● Reforestation and tree regeneration
● Buttressing the soil through the use of sand fences, shelter belts, woodlots and windbreaks
● Better and hyper-fertilization of soil through planting
● The residue from pruned trees can be used to provide mulching for fields thus increasing soil
water retention and reducing evaporation

Desertification in India

● Population growth, removal of wood, overgrazing, soil erosions, etc. are all the important
factors that have caused desertification in India
● According to the Government’s data recently presented to the United Nations Convention to
Combat Desertification (UNCCD), India lost 31%, or 5.65 million hectares, of grassland area in a
decade
● As per reports, over 105 million hectares or about 32% of India’s areas has degraded
● Between 2003-2005 and 2011-2013, 26 states witnessed an increase in the level of
desertification in India
Measures Taken To Curb Desertification in India

● A Command Area Development Programme was launched in 1974 which is coordinated by

the Ministry of Water Resources for its implementation in various states of the country. It aims
at improvising the irrigational potential through water management
● In 1989-90, Integrated Watershed Management Programme was launched, which was later
renamed as Haryali Guidelines in 2013, and then, subsumed under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai
Yojana
● Implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development, the Desert Development Programme was
launched in 1995 to minimize the effects of drought in areas across the country
● India also became a signatory to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
(UNCCD) in 1994
● National Afforestation Programme was implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change in the year 2000
● In 2001, the National Action Programme to Combat Desertification was implemented by the
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
● Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas of India was released by ISRO in 2016to
combat desertification and land degradation

Measures Taken To Curb Desertification Globally

Desertification is an issue for people across the globe and multiple steps have been taken to curb it.
Given below are the steps which have been taken globally to curb  desertification:

● Goal 15 of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), 2030 declares that “we are determined to
protect the planet from degradation, including through sustainable consumption and
production.”
● The Bonn Challenge has been taken up as per which 150 million hectares of the world’s
deforested and degraded land is expected to be restored by 2020 and around  350 million
hectares to be restored by 2030
● United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) was established in 1994
● Apart from this, every year, June 17 is observed as the World Day to Combat Desertification and
Drought

1. Recently, the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought was observed on June 17th. The
theme for 2019 is ‘Let’s Grow the Future Together’ to encourage people against depleting the
land of its inbuilt resources
2. For years, commentators have questioned the popularity of sugarcane in arid, drought-prone
Marathwada. When farmers reluctantly shifted to tur in 2016, the state government had the
opportunity to promote better crop planning, as per water experts. But things didn’t pan out on
expected lines. If things continue unchanged, water-stressed regions such as Marathwada could
be heading towards desertification, as per opinions shared by experts.
3. According to statistics, China has 2.61 million square kilometers of desert, meaning more than a
quarter of the country’s land is either degraded or lost to sand. However, thanks to decades-
long efforts to combat desertification, China has achieved substantial progress in sand control
and ecological protection.
Deforestation

The causes and effects of deforestation are one of the most significant environmental issues.
Deforestation refers to the destruction of a forest permanently to use it for various reasons such as
industrialization, urban developments, agriculture, mineral & oil extractions, etc.

Since the industrial age started, human has increased the rate of deforestation at a faster pace. As a
result of this, millions of animals have lost their home.

Deforestation not only seizes animal habitats but is also a threat to the environment. It is high time to
stand together and find solutions to tackle this environmental issue, i.e., deforestation.

Awareness is essential to find out the preventive measures for deforestation, and for that, we need to
understand deforestation in detail.

Causes of Deforestation

Various reasons lead to deforestation. Most of the time, deforestation occurs due to human interest in
satisfying different needs such as logging, timber production, mining, further development, etc. Some of
the major causes of deforestation are as follows;

Deforestation Due to Population Growth

More land is in demand for housing and other settlements with the increasing rate of population. It
requires more places to fulfill the needs of various accommodations such as food, housing, timber,
households, etc. To achieve all these needs, deforestation takes place.
Deforestation Due to Logging
It is one of the common reasons that cause deforestation. Wood industries such as paper, match-sticks,
furniture, etc., need a massive supply of wood.

Most of the time, logging takes place illegally to supply wood in a considerable amount to the wood-
based industries. Apart from this, wood is also a kind of fuel for cooking.

Deforestation Due to Agricultural Expansions

The conversion of forest land into agricultural farms is causing deforestation at an alarming rate. Huge
lands are required for farming activities, such as plowing, planting seeds, growing crops, etc.

Due to the increasing demand for food products worldwide, many forest lands are deforested to supply
the requirements.

Deforestation Due to Mining

Mining companies clear large areas of land in order to build mines and extract minerals. This process
destroys forests and disrupts ecosystems. The pollutants that spread through environmental mining
cause hazardous effects to nearby places. Deforestation due to mining is a major problem that needs to
be addressed.
 Deforestation Due to Timber Production
The production of timber is one of the primary reasons that cause deforestation. The demand for timber
is increasing day by day, which is directly connected to deforestation.

The production of timber takes away trees that are necessary for the environment. Timber production
also contributes to climate change by releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Forests are the only source to produce a tremendous amount of timber for different uses. The demand
for wood is increasing rapidly; simultaneously, the area of forest lands is shrinking gradually.

Deforestation Due to Forest Fire

In recent years, deforestation due to forest fire has become a major problem. Forest fire destroys vast
areas of forest land. It can destroy entire ecosystems, leaving behind nothing but barren land.

Both natural and human causes are responsible for forest fires. It not only destroys the vegetation of
forest land but also hampers the natural habitats of millions of wild animals.

Other Causes of Deforestation

● Road constructions contribute to deforestation.

● Livestock farming also hampers the forest ecosystem. It leads to deforestation to use the land for
livestock farming purposes.
● Trees are cut down to use as fuel for various purposes such as cooking, heating, etc.
● A massive number of trees are getting destroyed to make paper that we use every day in different
ways.
● Many forests have been cleared for palm oil plantations. Palm oil is used in various products like
shampoo, lipstick, a food item, etc.
● Apart from forest fire, some other natural causes that lead to deforestation are hurricanes, floods,
parasites, etc.
What Are the Effects of Deforestation?
Deforestation not only affects the wildlife quite severely but also affects the environment in various
ways, such as:

Greenhouse Effect
The greenhouse effect is one of the main effects of cutting countless trees every year. Trees help
maintain the balance of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the atmosphere.

This balance has been disturbed due to the loss of millions of trees. Deforestation is also causing the
release of other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which is a big reason for global warming.

Soil Erosion Effect

We all know that trees help in binding the soil together to protect it from erosion. Due to excessive
deforestation across the globe, soil erosion is occurring at a higher rate.
Due to deforestation, the soil is contacting with the heat of the sun directly and losing moisture &
nutrients. Soil erosion affects the irrigation system and hydroelectric infrastructure on a large scale.
Imbalance In the Water Cycle
Deforestation has a huge impact on the water cycle. Trees play a vital role in the water cycle by
regulating the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere. When trees are removed, the amount of
water vapor decreases, which leads to a decrease in precipitation. This can lead to droughts and other
water shortages.
Deforestation Affects Ozone Layer
Deforestation has many negative effects, one of which is its impact on the ozone layer. The ozone layer
protects us from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. However, when trees are removed, this protection is
diminished. As a result, more ultraviolet rays are able to reach the earth’s surface, causing health
problems for humans and animals.
Deforestation Contributes to Acidic Ocean
Deforestation plays a significant role in the acidification of our oceans. When trees are cut down, they
no longer have the ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This gas then dissolves into
the ocean, where it forms carbonic acid. This process increases the ocean’s acidity, which is detrimental
to marine life.
Acidification also makes it harder for corals to build their skeletons and shellfish to form their shells. As a
result, deforestation not only harms the environment on land, but also has a negative impact on the
health of our oceans.

Deforestation Affects Wildlife

Deforestation affects wildlife in many ways. One way is that it destroys their habitat. When animals lose
their homes, they also lose access to food and water; This can lead to starvation and dehydration.
Deforestation also reduces the populations of certain species of animals.
Lets take the example of birds. Deforestation affects birds in various ways. When forests are cleared,
there is less area for birds to live and nest. This can lead to a decrease in the population of specific bird
species. The loss of trees can reduce the availability of insects, which are an important food source for
many birds. This can disrupt the food chain, as well as the balance of ecosystems.
Deforestation Leads to Floods and Droughts
Deforestation can lead to both floods and droughts. When there are fewer trees to absorb water, the
ground becomes much drier. This can lead to droughts when there is not enough rain. When it does
rain, the water has nowhere to go and can cause floods.

Other Effects of Deforestation

Deforestation also affects the tourism industry, and as a result, the country’s economy will also get
affected. Due to deforestation, we will lose the natural remedies (used for medicinal purposes) available
in the rainforest. If deforestation continues like this, the day will come when all the rainforests will be
destroyed within 100 years.

Preventive Measures of Deforestation

Educational Campaigns
It is possible to combat deforestation through awareness. Educational campaigns can be an excellent
example of awareness about deforestation. This can be done by teaching people about the importance
of trees and forests.

Educational campaigns may include ads, public service announcements, social media campaigns, and
educational materials distributed in schools. These campaigns can be targeted to different age groups
 and cultures, and should be designed to raise awareness of the issue of deforestation and its impact on
the environment.
Reforestation
Reforestation is one of the best preventive measures of deforestation. it helps in restoring the forest
cover that has been lost due to any reason. It also provides a number of benefits like reducing soil
erosion, improving water quality, providing habitat for wildlife and many more. We all need to
understand the importance of reforestation and implement it to save the environment.
Following The Rules & Regulations
There should be strict rules & regulations against those who are involved in deforestation activities by
any means. People should follow these rules & regulations because it is everyone’s responsibility to save
the environment.

Use of Renewable Forest Resources

We can grow trees as a source of wood from secondary growth forests. Using sustainable local wood
sources and charcoal for cooking or heating is an excellent alternative to fossil fuels (provided it comes
from local authorities).
Reduce the Consumption of Paper
Choose recyclable paper products, such as printing paper, notebooks, napkins, toilet paper, etc. To
reduce the wastage of paper, we can make a habit of taking a printout on both sides of a paper and
even writing on both sides of our notebook. If we can limit the use of paper products, we can reduce the
reasons for deforestation to some extent.
Other Preventive Measures to Stop Deforestation

● Prefer to buy products from sustainable companies like Asian pulp & paper, Hershey, Wilmar
International, Loreal, Unilever, Disney, etc. These companies are committed to minimizing
deforestation.
● If we can minimize our consumption, we will be able to treat the deforestation problem to some
extent. For example, reducing the use of palm oil products, etc.
● Implement the 3 R’s of environment or prefer to buy recycled and eco-friendly products.
● We should Prefer to consume vegetarian food whenever possible.
● Prefer to purchase certified wood products. Make sure you check the labels & FSC (Forest
Stewardship Council) mark before purchasing any wood product.
Conclusion
Deforestation is a problem that affects us all, and it is one that we must work together to solve. The
causes of deforestation are many and complex, but the effects are clear: loss of habitat for wildlife, loss
of trees that provide vital ecosystem services, and contribution to climate change.

But there is a hope. By taking preventive measures such as reducing our demand for products made
from illegally-logged timber, choosing sustainably-produced wood products, and supporting
reforestation efforts, we can help make a difference. Together, we can protect our planet’s forests for
generations to come. Finally, planting trees can reduce almost all major causes and effects of
deforestation.

Deforestation refers to the clearing or removal of forests or trees from an area, leading to a change in
the landscape and ecological balance.
 Causes of Deforestation:

1. Agricultural Expansion: Clearing of forests to make land available for agriculture.

2. Timber Extraction: Trees are cut down for their timber, which is then used for various purposes.
3. Urbanization: The expansion of cities and towns leads to clearing of forests.
4. Mining: The mining of minerals and other natural resources requires the clearing of forests.
5. Infrastructure Development: The construction of roads, highways, and other infrastructure requires the
clearing of forests.

Effects of Deforestation:

1. Climate Change: Deforestation contributes to the release of greenhouse gases, which leads to climate
change.
2. Loss of Biodiversity: Deforestation results in the loss of habitat for many species, leading to a decline in
biodiversity.
3. Soil Erosion: Without trees to hold the soil in place, erosion can occur, leading to reduced soil fertility.
4. Flooding: Trees help to absorb water and release it slowly into the soil. Deforestation can lead to
increased flooding and soil erosion.
5. Desertification: Deforestation can lead to the conversion of once-fertile land into barren deserts.

Measures to prevent deforestation:

1. Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting new trees to replace those that have been cut down.
2. Sustainable Farming Practices: Adopting sustainable farming practices can reduce the need for
deforestation.
3. Encouraging the Use of Alternative Building Materials: Using alternative building materials such as
bamboo, straw, or recycled materials can reduce the demand for wood.
4. Promoting Conservation: Promoting conservation of forests and other natural resources can help to
reduce deforestation.
5. Enforcing Laws: Enforcing laws and regulations to prevent illegal logging and deforestation can help to
reduce deforestation.

Ozone Layer Definition

“The ozone layer is a region in the earth’s stratosphere that contains high concentrations of ozone and
protects the earth from the harmful ultraviolet radiations of the sun.”

What is an Ozone Layer?

The ozone layer is mainly found in the lower portion of the earth’s atmosphere. It has the potential to
absorb around 97-99% of the harmful ultraviolet radiations coming from the sun that can damage life on
earth. If the ozone layer was absent, millions of people would develop skin diseases and may have
weakened immune systems.
However, scientists have discovered a hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica. This has focused their
concern on various environmental issues and steps to control them. The main reasons for the ozone
hole are chlorofluorocarbons, carbon tetrachloride, methyl bromide and hydro chlorofluorocarbons.
Ozone Layer Depletion
“Ozone layer depletion is the gradual thinning of the earth’s ozone layer in the upper atmosphere
caused due to the release of  chemical compounds containing gaseous bromine or chlorine from
industries or other human activities.”

What is Ozone Layer Depletion?

Ozone layer depletion is the thinning of the ozone layer present in the upper atmosphere. This happens
when the chlorine and bromine atoms in the atmosphere come in contact with ozone and destroy the
ozone molecules. One chlorine can destroy 100,000 molecules of ozone. It is destroyed more quickly
than it is created.
Some compounds release chlorine and bromine on exposure to high ultraviolet light, which then
contributes to ozone layer depletion. Such compounds are known as Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS).
The ozone-depleting substances that contain chlorine include chlorofluorocarbon, carbon tetrachloride,
hydrochlorofluorocarbons, and methyl chloroform. Whereas, the ozone-depleting substances that
contain bromine are halons, methyl bromide, and hydro bromofluorocarbons.
Chlorofluorocarbons are the most abundant ozone-depleting substance. It is only when the chlorine
atom reacts with some other molecule, it does not react with ozone.
Montreal Protocol was proposed in 1987 to stop the use, production and import of ozone-depleting
substances and minimize their concentration in the atmosphere to protect the ozone layer of the earth.

Causes of Ozone Layer Depletion

Ozone layer depletion is a major concern and is associated with a number of factors. The main causes
responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer are listed below:
Chlorofluorocarbons
Chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs are the main cause of ozone layer depletion. These are released by
solvents, spray aerosols, refrigerators, air-conditioners, etc.
The molecules of chlorofluorocarbons in the stratosphere are broken down by ultraviolet radiations and
release chlorine atoms. These atoms react with ozone and destroy it.
Unregulated Rocket Launches
Researches say that the unregulated launching of rockets results in much more depletion of the ozone
layer than the CFCs do. If not controlled, this might result in a huge loss of the ozone layer by the year
2050.
Nitrogenous Compounds
The nitrogenous compounds such as NO 2, NO, N2O are highly responsible for the depletion of the ozone
layer.
Natural Causes
The ozone layer has been found to be depleted by certain natural processes such as Sun-spots and
stratospheric winds. But it does not cause more than 1-2% of the ozone layer depletion.
The volcanic eruptions are also responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer.
Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)
“Ozone-depleting substances are the substances such as chlorofluorocarbons, halons, carbon
tetrachloride, hydrofluorocarbons, etc. that are responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer.”
Following is the list of some main ozone-depleting substances and the sources from where they are
released:

Ozone-Depleting Substances Sources

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) Refrigerators, air-conditioners, solvents, dry-

cleaning agents, etc.

Halons Fire-extinguishers

Carbon tetrachloride Fire extinguishers, solvents

Methyl chloroform Adhesives, aerosols

Hydrofluorocarbons fire extinguishers, air-conditioners, solvents

Effects Of Ozone Layer Depletion

The depletion of the ozone layer has harmful effects on the environment. Let us see the major effects of
ozone layer depletion on man and environment.
Effects on Human Health
Humans will be directly exposed to the harmful ultraviolet radiation of the sun due to the depletion of
the ozone layer. This might result in serious health issues among humans, such as skin diseases, cancer,
sunburns, cataract, quick ageing and weak immune system.
Effects on Animals
Direct exposure to ultraviolet radiations leads to skin and eye cancer in animals.
Effects on the Environment
Strong ultraviolet rays may lead to minimal growth, flowering and photosynthesis in plants. The forests
also have to bear the harmful effects of the ultraviolet rays.
Effects on Marine Life
Planktons are greatly affected by the exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. These are higher in the
aquatic food chain. If the planktons are destroyed, the organisms present in the food chain are also
affected.

Solutions to Ozone Layer Depletion

The depletion of the ozone layer is a serious issue and various programmes have been launched by the
government of various countries to prevent it. However, steps should be taken at the individual level as
well to prevent the depletion of the ozone layer.
Following are some points that would help in preventing this problem at a global level:
Avoid Using ODS
Reduce the use of ozone depleting substances. E.g. avoid the use of CFCs in refrigerators and air
conditioners, replacing the halon based fire extinguishers, etc.
Minimise the Use of Vehicles
The vehicles emit a large amount of greenhouse gases that lead to global warming as well as ozone
depletion. Therefore, the use of vehicles should be minimised as much as possible.
Use Eco-friendly Cleaning Products
Most of the cleaning products have chlorine and bromine releasing chemicals that find a way into the
atmosphere and affect the ozone layer. These should be substituted with natural products to protect
the environment.
Use of Nitrous Oxide should be Prohibited
The government should take actions and prohibit the use of harmful nitrous oxide that is adversely
affecting the ozone layer. People should be made aware of the harmful effects of nitrous oxide and the
products emitting the gas so that its use is minimised at the individual level as well.

What is Acid Rain?

Acid Rain, as the name suggests, can be said as the precipitation of acid in the form of rain in the
simplest manner. When atmospheric pollutants like oxides of nitrogen and sulphur react with
rainwater and come down with the rain, then this results in Acid Rain.

Acid Rain Definition

Acid rain is made up of highly acidic water droplets due to air emissions, most specifically the
disproportionate levels of sulphur and nitrogen emitted by vehicles and manufacturing processes. It is
often called acid rain as this concept contains many types of acidic precipitation.
The acidic deposition takes place in two ways: wet and dry. Wet deposition is any form of precipitation
which removes acids from the atmosphere and places them on the surface of the earth. In the absence
of precipitation, dry deposition of polluting particles and gases sticks to the ground through dust and
smoke.

Causes of Acid Rain

The causes of acid rain are Sulphur and Nitrogen particles which get mixed with the wet components
of rain. Sulphur and Nitrogen particles which get mixed with water are found in two ways either man-
made i.e as the emissions that are given out from industries or by natural causes like lightning strike in
the atmosphere releasing nitrogen oxides and volcanic eruptions releasing sulphur oxide.
According to the Royal Society of Chemistry, which considers him the “father of acid rain,” the word acid
rain was invented in 1852 by Scottish chemist Robert Angus Smith. Smith decided on the word while
studying rainwater chemistry near industrial towns in England and Scotland.
The regular clean rain we experience, even though it is not clean i.e water and carbon dioxide react
together to form weak carbonic acid which essentially by itself is not extremely harmful. The reaction
occurring is :
H2O (l) + CO2 (g) ⇌ H2CO3 (aq)
The  pH  value of regular rainwater is around 5.7, giving it an acidic nature. The oxides of nitrogen and
sulphur are blown away by the wind along with the dust particles. They settle on the earth’s surface
after coming down in the form of precipitation. Acid rain is essentially a by-product of human activities
which emit oxides of nitrogen and sulphur in the atmosphere.  Example – the burning of fossil fuels,
unethical waste emission disposal techniques.

Sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide undergo oxidation, and then they react with water resulting in the
formation of sulphuric acid and nitric acid, respectively. The following reaction will clarify the acid
formation reaction:
2SO2 (g) + O2 (g) + 2H2O (l) → 2H2SO4 (aq)
4NO2 (g) + O2 (g) + 2H2O (l) → 4HNO3 (aq)

Effects of Acid Rain

● Acid rain is very harmful to agriculture, plants, and animals. It washes away all nutrients which
are required for the growth and survival of plants. Acid rain affects agriculture by the way it
alters the composition of the soil.

● It causes respiratory issues in animals and humans.

● When acid rain falls down and flows into the rivers and ponds it affects the aquatic ecosystem. It
alters the chemical composition of the water, to a form which is actually harmful to the aquatic
ecosystem to survive and causes water pollution.
● Acid rain also causes the corrosion of water pipes, which further results in leaching of
heavy metals such as iron, lead and copper into drinking water.
● It damages the buildings and monuments made up of stones and metals.

Real-Life Examples

● Taj Mahal, one of the 7 wonders of the world, is largely affected by acid rain. The city of Agra
has many industries which emit the oxides of sulphur and nitrogen in the atmosphere. People
continue to use low-quality coal and firewood as a domestic fuel, adding to this problem. Acid
rain has the following reaction with the marble (calcium carbonate):
CaCO3(s) +  H2SO4(l) → CaSO4(s) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)

The formation of calcium sulphate results in the corrosion of this beautiful monument.

● Statue of Liberty which is made of copper has also been damaged by the cumulative action of
acid rain and oxidation for over 30 years and is, therefore, becoming green.

Prevention of Acid Rain

● The only precaution that we can take against acid rain is having a check at the emission of oxides
of nitrogen and sulphur.
 ● Acid rain is harmful to animals, plants and the monuments.
● Being responsible citizens, one should be aware of the harmful effects they cause and of the
industries which give out nitrogen and sulphur compound wastes unethically.

Biodiversity Conservation Definition

“Biodiversity conservation refers to the protection, upliftment, and management of biodiversity in
order to derive sustainable benefits for present and future generations.”
Table of Contents

● Explanation
● Methods

● In Situ
● Ex Situ
Strategies
Conclusion

What is Biodiversity Conservation?

Biodiversity conservation is the protection and management of biodiversity to obtain resources for
sustainable development.
Biodiversity conservation has three main objectives:

● To preserve the diversity of species.

● Sustainable utilization of species and ecosystem.
● To maintain life-supporting systems and essential ecological processes.

Biodiversity and its Conservation Methods

Biodiversity refers to the variability of life on earth. It can be conserved in the following ways:

● In-situ Conservation
● Ex-situ Conservation

In-situ Conservation
In-situ conservation of biodiversity is the conservation of species within their natural habitat. In this
method, the natural ecosystem is maintained and protected.
The in-situ conservation has several advantages. Following are the important advantages of in-situ
conservation:

1. It is a cost-effective and convenient method of conserving biodiversity.

2. A large number of living organisms can be conserved simultaneously.
3. Since the organisms are in a natural ecosystem, they can evolve better and can easily adjust to
different environmental conditions.
Certain protected areas where in-situ conservation takes place include national parks, wildlife
sanctuaries and biosphere reserves.
National Parks
These are small reserves maintained by the government. Its boundaries are well demarcated and human
activities such as grazing, forestry, habitat and cultivation are prohibited. For eg., Kanha National Park,
and Bandipur National Park.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
These are the regions where only wild animals are found. Human activities such as timber harvesting,
cultivation, collection of woods and other forest products are allowed here as long as they do not
interfere with the conservation project. Also, tourists visit these places for recreation.
Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere reserves are multi-purpose protected areas where the wildlife, traditional lifestyle of the
inhabitants and domesticated plants and animals are protected. Tourist and research activities are
permitted here.

Ex-situ Conservation
Ex-situ conservation of biodiversity involves the breeding and maintenance of endangered species in
artificial ecosystems such as zoos, nurseries, botanical gardens, gene banks, etc. There is less
competition for food, water and space among the organisms.
Ex-situ conservation has the following advantages:

1. The animals are provided with a longer time and breeding activity.
2. The species bred in captivity can be reintroduced in the wild.
3. Genetic techniques can be used for the preservation of endangered species.

Strategies for Biodiversity Conservation

Following are the important strategies for biodiversity conservation:

1. All the varieties of food, timber plants, livestock, microbes and agricultural animals should be
conserved.
2. All the economically important organisms should be identified and conserved.
3. Unique ecosystems should be preserved first.
4. The resources should be utilized efficiently.
5. Poaching and hunting of wild animals should be prevented.
6. The reserves and protected areas should be developed carefully.
7. The levels of pollutants should be reduced in the environment.
8. Deforestation should be strictly prohibited.
9. Environmental laws should be followed strictly.
10. The useful and endangered species of plants and animals should be conserved in their nature as
well as artificial habitats.
11. Public awareness should be created regarding biodiversity conservation and its importance.
Why should you conserve Biodiversity?
It is believed that an area with higher species abundance has a more stable environment compared to
an area with lower species abundance. We can further claim the necessity of biodiversity by considering
our degree of dependency on the environment. We depend directly on various species of plants for our
various needs. Similarly, we depend on various species of animals and microbes for different reasons.
Biodiversity is being lost due to the loss of habitat, over-exploitation of resources, climatic changes,
pollution, invasive exotic species, diseases, hunting, etc. Since it provides us with several economic and
ethical benefits and adds aesthetic value, it is very important to conserve biodiversity.