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Environmental Studies BA 1st Year Question & Answer
Environmental Studies BA 1st Year Question & Answer
Unit 1
nvironmental studies is a multidisciplinary subject that incorporates various fields of study, including:
chemistry, physics, medical science, life science, agriculture, public health, geology, politics, and policy
studies.
Environmental studies is multidisciplinary because the environment is complex and made up of many different
environments, such as natural, constructed, and cultural. It's the science of physical phenomena in the
environment and deals with every issue that affects an organism. Environmental studies requires an
interdisciplinary approach to understand the effects of humanity on the natural world.
The environment is defined as the complex interactions between living organisms and their non-living
surroundings, such as air, water, and land. Environmental studies studies the sources, reactions, transport,
effect, and fate of a biological species in the air, water, and soil, and the effect of human activity on these.
The environment is the sum total of all the living and non-living things that surround an organism, including the air,
water, land, and other living organisms. The scope of the environment is very wide and includes many different aspects,
such as:
Physical: This includes the air, water, land, and other non-living things that make up the environment.
Biological: This includes all the living organisms in the environment, from plants and animals to bacteria and fungi.
Human: This includes human activities and settlements, as well as the impact that humans have on the environment.
Ecological: This includes the interactions among species and how they affect the environment.
Social: This includes cultural and economic factors that affect the environment.
Global: This includes cross-border issues, such as climate change and pollution.
Sustainability: This includes the need to manage resources in a way that meets the needs of the present without
compromising the needs of the future.
Understanding and protecting the environment is essential for addressing challenges like climate change, habitat loss, and
pollution. It requires interdisciplinary collaboration and responsible resource management.
The air we breathe, the water we drink, and the land we live on are all part of the environment.
The plants and animals that share our planet are also part of the environment.
The human activities that affect the environment, such as pollution and deforestation, are also part of the environment.
The social and economic factors that affect the environment, such as poverty and inequality, are also part of the
environment.
The global issues that affect the environment, such as climate change and ozone depletion, are also part of the
environment.
The scope of the environment is constantly changing, as new challenges and opportunities emerge. It is important to be
aware of the different aspects of the environment and how they interact with each other in order to make informed
decisions about how to protect it.
The environment is very important to us. It provides us with the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the
food we eat. It also provides us with a place to live and work. The environment is also important for our health
and well-being. It helps to reduce stress and improve our mood. It also provides us with opportunities for
recreation and exercise.
There are many things we can do to protect the environment. We can recycle and compost, reduce our energy
consumption, and drive less. We can also support businesses that are committed to protecting the
environment. By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that the environment is healthy for future
generations.
The environment provides us with the resources we need to survive, such as food, water, and air.
The environment helps to regulate the climate and protect us from extreme weather conditions.
The environment is important for our health and well-being. It helps to reduce stress and improve our mood.
The four major components of environment include lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere,
corresponding to rocks, water, air and life respectively.
Lithosphere is derived from the word "sphere," combined with the Greek word "lithos" which means rock. The
lithosphere is the solid outer section of Earth which includes Earth's crust (the "skin" of rock on the outer layer of planet
Earth), as well as the underlying cool, dense, and fairly rigid upper part of the upper mantle.
Hydrosphere comprises of all forms of water bodies on earth including marine (oceans, seas) freshwater (rivers, lakes,
ponds, streams) and groundwater resources etc. It covers 71% of earth’s surface. 97% of water found on Earth is in the
oceans in the form of salt water. Only 3 % of water on Earth is freshwater. Out of this, 30.8% is available as groundwater
and 68.9% is in frozen forms as in glaciers. Amount of 0.3% is available in rivers, reservoirs and lakes and is easily
accessible to man.
Atmosphere is gaseous layer enveloping the Earth. The atmosphere with oxygen in abundance is unique to Earth and
sustains life. It mainly comprises 78.08% nitrogen, 20.95% oxygen, 0.93% argon, 0.039% carbon dioxide, and traces of
hydrogen, helium, and noble gases. The amount of water vapor present is variable (0-3%).Earth's atmosphere has a
series of layers, each with its own specific traits. Moving upward from ground level, these layers are named the
troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere and exosphere. The troposphere is the lowest layer of our
atmosphere
Biosphere refers to all the regions on Earth where life exists. The ecosystems that support life could be in soil, air, water
or land. The term Biosphere was coined by Geologist Edward Suess who used this term for place on Earth where life can
be found. Biosphere refers to the sum total of all living matter, the biomass or biota. It extends from the polar ice caps
to the equator, with each region harboring some life form suitable to the conditions there
Q5 Write the brief account of Natural resource And associated Problems Land resource , water resource and energy
resource
Natural resources are materials and substances that occur naturally and are essential for our survival. They
can be classified into three main categories: land resources, water resources, and energy resources.
Land resources include soil, minerals, and forests. Soil is the top layer of the earth's crust and is essential for
agriculture. Minerals are inorganic substances that are found in the earth's crust and are used to make a
variety of products, such as metals, glass, and cement. Forests are ecosystems that are dominated by trees
and provide a variety of benefits, such as clean air and water, habitat for wildlife, and recreation opportunities.
Water resources include freshwater, saltwater, and groundwater. Freshwater is found in lakes, rivers, and
streams and is used for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes. Saltwater is found in oceans and seas and
is used for transportation, recreation, and the production of salt and other minerals. Groundwater is found in
aquifers underground and is used for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes.
Energy resources include fossil fuels, renewable energy sources, and nuclear energy. Fossil fuels are coal,
oil, and natural gas, which are formed from the remains of plants and animals that lived millions of years
ago. Fossil fuels are used to generate electricity, power vehicles, and heat homes and businesses. Renewable
energy sources include solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, and geothermal energy. Renewable energy
sources are clean and sustainable, and they do not produce greenhouse gases. Nuclear energy is produced
by splitting atoms of uranium or plutonium, which releases a large amount of heat. Nuclear energy is used to
generate electricity.
Natural resources are essential for our survival, but they are also finite. We need to use them wisely and
conserve them for future generations. Here are some ways to conserve natural resources:
Reduce your energy consumption. Turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug appliances when you're not
using them, and weatherize your home.
Conserve water. Take shorter showers, fix leaky faucets, and water your lawn less often.
Recycle and compost. Recycling reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfills, and composting helps to
create nutrient-rich soil.
Plant trees. Trees help to clean the air and water, and they provide habitat for wildlife.
By following these tips, we can help to conserve natural resources and protect our planet for future
generations.
Sustainability is about finding the right balance between economic development, social development, and
environmental protection. It's about meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs.
Sustainable development is the process of achieving sustainability. It's about finding ways to improve the
quality of life for everyone without harming the environment.
Economic sustainability
is about using resources in a way that doesn't damage the economy. This means using renewable
resources, reducing waste, and investing in clean energy.
Social sustainability
is about creating a society where everyone can live a good life. This means providing education, healthcare,
and housing for everyone. It also means protecting human rights and promoting equality.
Environmental sustainability
is about protecting the natural environment. This means reducing pollution, conserving resources, and
protecting biodiversity.
Sustainable development is important because it's the only way to ensure that everyone can have a good life
in the future. If we don't protect the environment, we won't be able to have a healthy economy or a just society.
Investing in public transportation and making cities more walkable and bikeable.
Q1 Write about Major bioms tropical , Temperate , Forest , Grassland , Desert , tundra , wetland ,
Estuarine and Marine
A biome is a community of plants and animals that share characteristics due to the environment they live
in. Biomes are also known as major life zones and are the largest geographic biotic unit. They are named after
the dominant features of the region, such as forests, deserts, or grasslands.
Tropical
Tropical biomes are found near the equator and are characterized by warm, humid climates. They are home to
a wide variety of plant and animal life, including rainforests, savannas, and coral reefs.
Temperate
Temperate biomes are found in the middle latitudes and are characterized by milder climates with four distinct
seasons. They are home to a variety of forests, grasslands, and deserts.
Forest
Forests are biomes that are dominated by trees. They can be found in a variety of climates, from tropical to
temperate to boreal. Forests are home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, and play an important role in
the global carbon cycle.
Grassland
Grasslands are biomes that are dominated by grasses. They can be found in a variety of climates, from tropical
to temperate to cold. Grasslands are home to a variety of grazing animals, as well as birds and other wildlife.
Desert
Deserts are biomes that are characterized by very little rainfall. They can be found in a variety of climates, from
hot to cold. Deserts are home to a variety of plants and animals that have adapted to the dry conditions.
Tundra
Tundra biomes are found in the Arctic and Antarctic regions and are characterized by very cold temperatures
and short growing seasons. They are home to a variety of plants and animals that have adapted to the cold
conditions, such as lichens, mosses, and caribou.
Wetland
Wetlands are biomes that are characterized by standing or flowing water. They can be found in a variety of
climates, from tropical to temperate to cold. Wetlands are home to a variety of plants and animals that have
adapted to the wet conditions, such as reeds, cattails, and frogs.
Estuarine
Estuaries are biomes that are formed where rivers meet the ocean. They are characterized by a mix of fresh
and saltwater. Estuaries are home to a variety of plants and animals that have adapted to the brackish
conditions, such as oysters, crabs, and dolphins.
Marine
Marine biomes are found in the oceans and are characterized by saltwater. They are home to a wide variety of
plant and animal life, including phytoplankton, zooplankton, fish, whales, and dolphins.
These are just a few of the major biomes that can be found on Earth. Each biome is home to a unique
community of plants and animals that have adapted to the specific conditions of that biome.
Q2 What is Ecosystem
n ecosystem is a geographic area where living organisms, like plants and animals, interact with non-living
parts, like weather and landscape. Ecosystems can be any size, from a small pond to the Great Barrier
Reef. They are often separated by geographical barriers such as deserts, mountains, oceans, lakes, and
rivers.
Ecosystems are communities of living organisms and their physical environment. They can be as small as a
puddle or as large as a desert. Ecosystems are made up of two main components: biotic and abiotic. Biotic
components are the living things in an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and bacteria. Abiotic components
are the non-living things in an ecosystem, such as water, air, and soil.
The structure of an ecosystem is determined by the interactions between the biotic and abiotic
components. For example, plants need water and sunlight to survive, so they will be found in areas where
these resources are available. Animals need food and shelter, so they will be found in areas where these
resources are available. The abiotic components of an ecosystem can also affect the distribution of biotic
components. For example, a forest ecosystem will have a different distribution of plants and animals than a
desert ecosystem.
The structure of an ecosystem is important because it determines how the ecosystem functions. For example,
a forest ecosystem with a diverse population of plants and animals will be more resilient to disturbances than a
forest ecosystem with a less diverse population. A healthy ecosystem is also important for human health and
well-being. We rely on ecosystems for food, water, air, and other resources.
Producers:
Producers are organisms that can make their own food. Plants are the main producers in most
ecosystems. They use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to make food through photosynthesis.
Consumers:
Consumers are organisms that cannot make their own food and must eat other organisms to survive. There
are three main types of consumers: herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores. Herbivores eat plants, carnivores
eat animals, and omnivores eat both plants and animals.
Decomposers:
Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organisms and return their nutrients to the
environment. Decomposers include bacteria, fungi, and worms.
The structure of an ecosystem is a complex and dynamic system. The interactions between the biotic and
abiotic components of an ecosystem are constantly changing. These changes can be caused by natural
events, such as fires or floods, or by human activities, such as pollution or deforestation. It is important to
understand the structure of ecosystems so that we can manage them sustainably and protect them from harm.
The function of an ecosystem is to support life. Ecosystems do this by providing food, water, shelter, and other
resources for living organisms. They also help to regulate the climate and protect the environment.
There are four main components of an ecosystem: biotic components, abiotic components, energy, and
nutrients. Biotic components are living organisms, such as plants, animals, and bacteria. Abiotic components
are non-living things, such as water, air, and soil. Energy is the sun's energy that flows through the
ecosystem. Nutrients are the chemicals that living organisms need to survive.
There are two main types of ecosystems: terrestrial and aquatic. Terrestrial ecosystems are those that occur
on land, while aquatic ecosystems are those that occur in water.
Grassland ecosystems: These are ecosystems that are dominated by grasses and other herbaceous plants.
Desert ecosystems: These are ecosystems that are characterized by a lack of water.
Tundra ecosystems: These are ecosystems that are characterized by cold temperatures and a short growing
season.
Aquatic ecosystems can also be further divided into several types, including:
Freshwater ecosystems:
These are ecosystems that are characterized by fresh water, such as lakes, rivers, and streams.
Marine ecosystems:
These are ecosystems that are characterized by salt water, such as oceans and seas.
Urban ecosystems: These are ecosystems that are created by humans, such as cities and towns.
Artificial ecosystems: These are ecosystems that are created and maintained by humans, such as zoos and
aquariums.
Restoration of ecosystems:
Ecosystem restoration means efforts to renew and restore natural ecosystems that have been
degraded, damaged or destroyed by human activities.
Reforestation and the planting of land cover crops are among the remedial measures that can be taken
to ensure the continuity of natural resources for future generations.
Preservation of ecosystems:
Ecosystem preservation is an effort to protect the components in an ecosystem in order to maintain its
natural state.
One of the conservation measures is to gazette the forest reserve to maintain the natural beauty of its
flora and fauna.
The forest reserve is protected from any development activities.
90% of the upper part of the Belum Forest has not been explored and is a place of research.
Q Write Biodiversity and its conservation practices
Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth. It includes all the different plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms
that live in our world. Biodiversity is important for a number of reasons. It helps to maintain the health of
ecosystems, provides us with food and other resources, and supports our economies.
There are a number of threats to biodiversity, including habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and invasive
species. These threats can have a devastating impact on ecosystems and the species that live in them.
There are a number of things that can be done to conserve biodiversity. These include:
Protecting habitats: This can be done by creating protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife refuges.
Reducing pollution: This can be done by reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and developing cleaner sources
of energy.
Combating climate change: This can be done by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and investing in
renewable energy sources.
Controlling invasive species: This can be done by preventing the introduction of new invasive species and by
managing populations of existing invasive species.
Raising awareness: This can be done by educating people about the importance of biodiversity and the threats
it faces.
Biodiversity conservation is important for the health of our planet and for our own well-being. By working
together, we can protect biodiversity and ensure that it continues to thrive for generations to come.
In situ conservation:
This involves protecting and restoring ecosystems and habitats in their natural state. This can be done by
creating protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife refuges, or by managing land and water
resources in a sustainable way.
Ex situ conservation:
This involves conserving species outside of their natural habitats, such as in zoos, botanical gardens, or
seed banks. This can be important for protecting endangered species or for preserving genetic diversity.
Sustainable use:
This involves using natural resources in a way that does not damage ecosystems or deplete resources. This
can be done by using renewable resources, such as solar and wind energy, or by reducing our consumption
of resources.
Biodiversity conservation is a complex and challenging task, but it is essential for the health of our planet and
for our own well-being. By working together, we can protect biodiversity and ensure that it continues to thrive
for generations to come.
Q What is pollution
Pollution is the introduction of harmful materials, called pollutants, into the environment, which can damage the
quality of air, water, and land. Pollutants can be natural, like volcanic ash, or created by human activity, like
trash or factory runoff.
There are four main types of pollution:
Air pollution
The contamination of the atmosphere by chemical, physical, or biological agents, such as car exhaust, dust,
pollen, mold spores, volcanoes, and wildfires
Water pollution
The contamination of a body of water by harmful substances, such as industrial wastewater, untreated
sewage, and chemical contaminants
Soil pollution
The contamination of soil by waste materials at higher than normal concentrations, which can have adverse
effects on organisms
Noise pollution
Unwanted or disturbing sounds that affect the health and well-being of humans and other organisms, defined
by the World Health Organization (WHO) as noise that is louder than 65 decibels (dB)
Reduce: Use fewer vehicles, reduce waste, and avoid burning trash
Use sustainable: Choose sustainable products and use renewable energy sources
Use less energy: Turn off lights when you leave a room and use energy-efficient light bulbs
Use non-toxic chemicals: Use non-toxic or less toxic cleaners and degreasers
Q Measure a pollution
Health issues
Pollution can cause debilitating and fatal illnesses, including stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and
pneumonia. It can also lead to chronic asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and infant mortality.
Environmental damage
Pollution can destroy ecosystems, damage plants, and contribute to climate change.
Economic impact
Pollution can stunt economic growth and exacerbate poverty and inequality. In 2016, ambient particulate
matter (PM2.5) air pollution alone cost the global economy $5.7 trillion.
Some ways to manage pollution include:
Air pollution
Drive less, keep your car in good repair, turn off your engine, don't burn garbage, plant trees, and use less
energy
Pollution prevention
Use non-toxic or less toxic chemicals, reuse materials, and implement water and energy conservation
practices
The environmental movement arose to ensure the sustainability of the planet and all that lives on it. There are
activists in every part of the world confronting numerous issues that affect the environment.
The Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) is a movement that has been fighting for the rights of people who have
been displaced by the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam. The NBA has also been campaigning against
the construction of other dams on the Narmada River.
The Chipko movement was a movement that started in the 1970s to protect trees from being cut down. The
Chipko movement was successful in saving many trees, and it inspired other environmental movements in
India.
The Silent Valley Action Forum is a movement that has been fighting to protect the Silent Valley National Park
from being flooded by the construction of a hydroelectric dam. The Silent Valley Action Forum was successful
in saving the park, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These are just a few examples of the many environmental movements that have been active in India. These
movements have made a significant contribution to the protection of the environment and the rights of people
who are affected by environmental degradation.
There are many different types of C&PA programs, but they all share some common goals. These goals
include:
Public relations, Media outreach, Social media, Advertising, Marketing, Events, and Public education
campaigns.
The specific methods used will vary depending on the goals of the program, the target audience, and the
budget available.
C&PA programs can be an effective way to reach a large number of people and to influence public
opinion. However, it is important to carefully plan and implement these programs in order to achieve their
desired results.
The "Just Say No" anti-drug campaign was a public service announcement campaign that aired on television
and radio in the United States from 1983 to 1992. The campaign was designed to discourage young people
from using drugs.
The "Got Milk?" campaign is a milk marketing campaign that was launched in the United States in 1993. The
campaign is designed to increase milk consumption among Americans.
The "Think Before You Smoke" campaign is a public service announcement campaign that was launched in
the United States in 1987. The campaign is designed to discourage young people from smoking cigarettes.
These are just a few examples of the many successful C&PA programs that have been implemented over the
years. These programs have helped to raise awareness of important issues, promote positive behaviors, and
change public attitudes.
Q Write about National and international organization related to environment conservation and
monitoring
Here are some national and international organizations related to environmental conservation and monitoring:
National Organizations
KIMO
- This organization aims to develop sustainable coastal communities by preventing pollution of the seas and
coastal waters of North-Western Europe.
Environmental Monitoring
IT can be used to monitor environmental conditions such as air and water quality, soil contamination, and the
presence of pests and diseases. This information can help identify potential health hazards and inform efforts
to mitigate them. For example, IT can be used to track the spread of air pollution or to monitor the levels of
toxic chemicals in water.
Public Health
IT can be used to improve public health by providing access to information about health risks, promoting
healthy behaviors, and tracking the spread of diseases. For example, IT can be used to create websites that
provide information about healthy eating and exercise, or to develop mobile apps that track the spread of the
flu.
Healthcare
IT can be used to provide access to healthcare information, improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery, and
develop new medical treatments. For example, IT can be used to create electronic health records that allow
doctors to share patient information more easily, or to develop telemedicine programs that allow patients to see
doctors remotely.
IT is a powerful tool that can be used to improve the environment and human health. By using IT to monitor
environmental conditions, improve public health, and provide access to healthcare information, we can create
a healthier and more sustainable world.
Here are some specific examples of how IT is being used to improve the environment and human health:
Disease tracking:
IT is being used to track the spread of diseases such as the flu and malaria. This information is being used
to develop strategies to prevent and control the spread of diseases.
Telemedicine:
IT is being used to provide healthcare services to people in remote areas. This allows people to see doctors
and other healthcare professionals without having to travel long distances.