People, Development and Environment

Dr. S. Khaleel Basha

Assistant Professor
Department of Chemistry
C. Abdul Hakeem College
Melvisharam
 Natural and energy resources:
Natural and energy resources play a crucial role in our daily lives, providing the energy and materials
needed for various purposes. Here are some key natural and energy resources:

1. Solar Energy
2. Wind Energy
3. Soil (Agricultural Resources)
4. Hydro (Hydropower) Energy
5. Geothermal Energy
6. Biomass
7. Nuclear Energy
8. Forests (Forests and Wood Products)
1. Solar Energy:
•Source: Solar energy is
harnessed from the sun's
radiation using solar panels or
photovoltaic cells.
•Use: Solar energy is used for
electricity generation (solar
power), water heating, and a
wide range of applications in
both residential and industrial
settings.
2. Wind Energy:
•Source: Wind energy is
derived from the kinetic
energy of the wind using
wind turbines.
•Use: Wind energy is used
to generate electricity and
is an important component
of renewable energy
sources.
3. Soil (Agricultural
Resources):
•Source: Soil is the
top layer of the Earth's
surface that supports
plant life.
•Use: Soil is essential
for agriculture,
providing the medium
for plant growth and
the nutrients required
for crop production.
4. Hydro (Hydropower)
Energy:
•Source: Hydroelectric
power is generated from
the gravitational force of
flowing or falling water.
•Use: Hydropower is a
major source of electricity
in many regions, and it is a
renewable energy source.
5. Geothermal Energy:
•Source: Geothermal energy is derived from the heat within the Earth's core, which escapes through volcanic
activity or geothermal reservoirs.
•Use: It is used for heating buildings, generating electricity, and in some industrial processes
6. Biomass:
•Source: Biomass energy
is derived from organic
materials, such as wood,
crop residues, and
organic waste.
•Use: Biomass can be
converted into biofuels,
used for heating,
electricity generation,
and as a source of
renewable energy.
7. Nuclear Energy:
•Source: Nuclear energy is
generated from the fission of
uranium or plutonium in
nuclear reactors.
•Use: Nuclear power plants
provide a significant source of
electricity, but it involves
complex issues related to safety
and radioactive waste.
8. Forests (Forests and Wood Products):
•Source: Forests consist of trees and other vegetation that
are harvested for various purposes.
•Use: Forests are vital for the production of wood and
paper products, and they provide habitats for wildlife,
contribute to carbon sequestration, and offer recreational
and cultural benefits.
Natural hazards and disasters: Mitigation strategies
•Natural disasters are environmental events that threaten a community's safety and functionality.
•Hurricanes, floods, tsunamis, and avalanches are examples of natural disasters.
•Natural Disaster has the potential to do substantial damage to both public and private property.
•Landslides can be caused by activities such as deforestation, agricultural operations, mining, and so on.
Furthermore, flames may wreak havoc on the natural habitats of plants and animals.
•Natural disasters are classified into five types. These are some examples.

• Geological disasters
• Hydrological disasters
• Meteorological disasters
• Space disasters
• Wildfires
Geological Disasters
•Geological disasters are caused by changes above or under the earth's
surface.
•caused by tectonic plates have unforeseen and out-of-control consequences.
•Examples Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and avalanches.
•Earthquake occurs -rapid release of energy in the Earth's crust-causes seismic
waves.
• exhibit vibration, shaking, and, in certain cases, displacement of the ground.
Sippage within geological faults causes earthquakes.
•In the Lower Himalayas, landslides are prevalent. Because the region's hills
are young, they include rock formations that are prone to sliding.
•Deforestation is caused by rising population and development pressures,
mainly from logging and tourism.
•Avalanches are frequent in Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Sikkim, among
other places.
Hydrological Disasters
•Hydrological disasters are caused by abrupt changes in the quality or
distribution of water under the earth's surface, as well as changes in
meteorological conditions.
•Examples of hydrological disasters include flooding, drought,
mudslides, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, etc.
•A flood is defined as an excess of water on land. A river may acquire more
water from strong rains or other natural calamities. When this occurs, the water
overflows from its typical course in the river bed and onto dry ground.
•Tsunamis are sometimes referred to as tidal waves because they resemble fast-
rising tides, but experts avoid using this term since tides are generated by the
gravitational pull of the sun and moon, but tsunamis are caused by water
displacement.
•The tsunami of 2004 was produced by a massive earthquake, the third-largest
earthquake ever recorded on a seismograph.
Meteorological Disasters
Wildfires
•Meteorological Disasters are primarily
•Wildfires can be caused by natural
caused due to extreme weather conditions
calamities such
such as drought, snow, and rain.
•These natural disasters have an impact on
as drought and lightning.

the weather-forming process and Many humans, however, burn fires

atmospheric conditions. in woods to make way for

•Examples of meteorological disasters agricultural land.
include blizzards, droughts, cold waves, •Forest fires have become a global
tornadoes, cyclonic storms, etc. hazard, with many nations suffering major
loss of life and property.
Consequences of Disasters
•Individuals are affected literally (by loss of life, injuries, health, and disability) as well as mentally.
•The destruction of property, human settlements, and infrastructure, among other things, causes
massive economic damage.
•Disasters can change the natural environment, causing habitat loss for many plants and animals
and causing ecological stress, which can lead to biodiversity loss.
•Following natural disasters, food and other natural resources, such as water, frequently
become scarce, resulting in food and water shortages.
•People are relocated as a result of the disaster, and the displaced population frequently faces
several problems in new settlements; as a result, the poor become even more destitute.
•Disaster raises the amount of susceptibility, multiplying the impact of the disaster.
Major Disasters in India
•The Kashmir floods of 2014 killed about 500 people in Srinagar, Bandipur, Rajouri, and other parts of J&K.
•The Uttarakhand Flash Floods in 2013 killed around 5,000 people in Govindghat, Kedar Dome, and the Rudraprayag region
of Uttarakhand.
•The Indian Ocean Tsunami (2004) killed around 2 lakh people in southern India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as
well as Sri Lanka and Indonesia.
•Gujarat Earthquake (2001) killed around 20,000 people in Bhuj, Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Kutch, Surat, Surendranagar,
Rajkot district, Jamnagar, and Jodia districts.
•The Odisha Super Cyclone or Paradip cyclone (1999) killed around 10,000 people in the coastal districts of Bhadrak,
Kendrapara, Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, and Ganjam.
•The Great Famine (1876-1878) killed around 3 crore people in Madras, Mysore, Hyderabad, and Bombay. Even now, it is
regarded as one of India's biggest natural disasters of all time.
•Coringa Cyclone (1839), which devastated the Andhra Pradesh region of Coringa, and the Calcutta Cyclone (1737) are two
more examples of natural disasters that the country has encountered in the past.
•Between 1770 and 1943, the Bengal Famine devastated Bengal, Odisha, and Bihar, killing about a million people.
•The Disaster Management Act of 2005 describes disaster
management as "an integrated process of planning, organizing,
coordinating, and implementing actions required for-
•Averting the possibility of a disaster
•Reducing the likelihood of a tragedy or its repercussions
•Preparedness to deal with any type of calamity
•Dealing with a crisis as soon as possible
•Determining the magnitude of a disaster's consequence
•Rescue and assistance
•Rehabilitating and rebuilding
Environmental Protection Act (1986)
Environmental Protection Act
Environment Protection Act, 1986:
It was the Bhopal Gas Tragedy (Dec 2-3,1984) which necessitated the Government of
India to enact a comprehensive environmental legislation, including rules relating to
storing, handling and use of hazardous waste.
Environmental Protection Act (1986):
The Environmental Protection Act is a significant environmental
law in India.
It provides the framework for the protection and improvement of
the environment.
It empowers the central government to take measures to protect and
improve environmental quality, control and reduce pollution, and
promote sustainable development.
The Act is special for many reasons:
 It has the sole aim of ensuring the protection of the
environment, the prevention and reduction of environmental
pollution and provides the authority to take strict action
against perpetrators.
 It is an Act that takes precedence over other Acts. This means
that if an offence is committed that is liable to be booked
under multiple legislation including this Act, the EPA 1986 will
be given the highest priority.
Important legislation for environment protection:

 The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

 The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
 The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act,
1974
 The Hazardous Waste Management Regulations, etc.
Other Laws Relating to Environment:
In addition, there are many other laws relating to environment, namely –

 Indian Forest Act, 1927

 The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act,
2002)
 The Forest Conservation Act, 1980
 Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991
 Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act of 2001
 The Biological Diversity Act, 2002
 The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of
Forest Rights) Act, 2006
Climate Change
Climate change can be defined as significant changes in global temperature, wind patterns, sea levels precipitation, and other
measures of climate that occur over several decades.

Climate change is evident in the form of:

•Global temperature rise

•Warming oceans

•Shrinking ice sheets

•Glacial retreat

•Decreased snow cover

•Sea level rise

•Declining Arctic sea ice

•Ocean acidification
Global Warming is the gradual increase in the overall temperature of the
Earth’s atmosphere. It begins with a phenomenon called the greenhouse
effect.
The greenhouse effect occurs when there is an interaction between
Scientists have found that human activity is the
Earth’s atmosphere and the radiation from the sun. Sunlight shines onto
main contributor of global warming through the
the Earth’s surface, and is absorbed and radiated back into the
burning of fossil fuels.
atmosphere as heat.
 Coal-burning power plants are Earths largest
The gases within the Earth’s atmosphere are able to absorb about 90% of
polluters, generating about two billion tons of
this heat, warming to a life-sustaining temperature of 59 degrees
CO2 each year.
Fahrenheit.
 Transportation comes in a close second,
The greenhouse effect is made up of three primary atmospheric gases
generating about 1.7 billion tons of CO2
called “greenhouse gases”. emissions a year.
They include carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O) and methane  In addition, deforestation releases nearly a
(CH4). An increase in these greenhouse gases causes a rise in Earth’s billion tons of CO2 back into the atmosphere.
temperature and has the potential to greatly impact life on the planet.
Causes Of Climate Change
•Increased Greenhouse Effect:

•The greenhouse effect is the warming that results when the

atmosphere traps heat radiating from Earth toward space.

•Gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect include-Nitrous

Oxide (NO2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Water Vapour (H20),

Methane (CH4), and Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

•Burning of fossil fuels: It has increased the concentration of

atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2).

•Industrial activities: These activities have raised atmospheric

carbon dioxide levels from 280 parts per million to 400 parts per

million in the last 150 years.

Future Effects Of Climate Change
•Sea level will rise 1 to 4 feet by 2100.
•The Arctic Ocean is likely to become ice-free.
•Hurricanes will become more intense and stronger.
•Climate change will result in more droughts and heatwaves.
•Changes in precipitation patterns.
•Frost-free season (and growing season) will lengthen.
•Temperatures will continue to rise.
National Action Plan on Climate Change
 The National Action Plan on Climate change (NAPCC) was formally
launched on June 30th, 2008.
 The NAPCC identifies measures that promote development
objectives while also yielding co-benefits for addressing climate
change effectively.
 There are eight “National Missions” which form the core of the
National action plan.
 They focus on promoting understanding of climate change,
adaptation and mitigation, energy efficiency and natural resource
conservation.”
The eight missions of NAPCC are:
1. National Solar Mission
2. National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency
3. National Mission on Sustainable Habitat
4. National Water Mission
5. National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem
6. National Mission for a Green India
7. National Mission from Sustainable Agriculture
8. National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change
Other ongoing initiatives by NAPCC
1. Power Generation: The government is mandating the retirement of
inefficient coal-fired power plants and supporting the research and
development of IGCC and super critical technologies.
2. Renewable Energy: Under the Electricity Act 2003 and the National
Tariff Policy 2006, the central and the state electricity regulatory
commissions must purchase a certain percentage of grid-based power
from renewable sources.
3. Energy Efficiency: Under the Energy Conservation Act 2001, large
energy consuming industries are required to undertake energy audits
and an energy labeling program for appliances has been introduced.
 International agreements/efforts
 Montreal Protocol

 Rio Summit

 Convention on Biodiversity

 Kyoto Protocol

 Paris Agreement
Montreal Protocol (1987):
The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty aimed
at protecting the Earth's ozone layer.
It was adopted in 1987 and has since undergone several
amendments.
The protocol requires signatory countries to phase out
the production and consumption of ozone-depleting
substances, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and
halons.
The Montreal Protocol has been highly successful in
reducing ozone-depleting substances and is often cited
as one of the most successful international
environmental agreements.
Rio Summit
(Earth Summit, 1992):
 The United Nations Conference on
Environment and Development (UNCED),
commonly referred to as the Rio Summit or
Earth Summit, was held in Rio de Janeiro,
Brazil, in 1992.
 The summit resulted in several important
agreements, including the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) and the Convention on
Biological Diversity (CBD).
 It marked a significant turning point in
international environmental diplomacy.
Convention on Biodiversity (CBD, 1992):
The Convention on Biological Diversity is an international
treaty that aims to conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable
use of biological resources, and ensure the fair and equitable
sharing of benefits from genetic resources.
It was established at the Rio Summit in 1992 and has been
ratified by numerous countries.
Kyoto Protocol (1997):
 The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty linked to the United
Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
 It sets binding emissions reduction targets for developed countries
(Annex I countries) in an effort to mitigate climate change.
 It established the first commitment period from 2008 to 2012 and
introduced the concept of legally binding emissions reduction targets.
The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015 at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP 21)
to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is an
international climate accord.
 It aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-
industrial levels, with an ambition to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
 The agreement emphasizes voluntary contributions by countries to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, with a focus on nationally determined contributions
(NDCs) and global cooperation to address climate change.
 Paris is only the beginning of a shift towards a low-carbon world, and there is
much more to do.
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a global initiative that aims
• to promote solar energy as a sustainable and affordable source of clean energy for all.
• It was launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris in 2015,
alongside the Paris Agreement.

On March 11, 2018 India led the world into a new era of a mutually beneficial
multilateral effort so necessary for the survival of the humanity.
1.Promotion of Solar Energy: The primary goal of the ISA is to promote solar energy and its
utilization for sustainable development. It aims to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and
increase the use of solar power to meet energy needs.
2.Solar Resource-Rich Nations: The ISA focuses on countries lying between the Tropics of
Cancer and Capricorn, often referred to as the "Sunshine Countries." These nations have
abundant solar energy potential due to their geographical location, and the ISA works to
harness this potential.
3.Cooperation and Collaboration: The ISA encourages member countries to cooperate in
areas such as technology development, capacity building, sharing of best practices, and project
implementation. It facilitates knowledge exchange and collaboration among its members.
4.Mobilizing Investment:
The alliance seeks to mobilize significant investment in the solar energy sector. It aims to
attract public and private sector funding for solar projects, both at the national and regional
levels.
5.Solar Projects and Programs:
ISA initiates and supports various solar projects and programs, with a focus on solar power
generation, solar water pumps, solar off-grid lighting, and other solar applications for rural
and urban areas.
6.Solar Technology Development:
ISA promotes research and development of solar technologies, as well as the transfer of
technology among member countries, to accelerate the adoption of solar energy solutions.
7.Capacity Building: The alliance emphasizes capacity building and skill
development in the field of solar energy, helping member countries develop a skilled
workforce to support the growth of the solar sector.
8.Solar Financing: ISA works to provide access to affordable and sustainable
financing for solar projects, making it easier for member countries to invest in solar
energy infrastructure.
9.Sustainable Development Goals: The ISA aligns its activities with the United
Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on goals related to
affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13).
It represents a significant effort to accelerate the transition to

renewable energy sources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions,

and combat climate change by harnessing the power of the

sun.
The Eight Millennium Development Established 2000 & meant to be achieved 2015
Goals (MDG) are:
1. Eradicate extreme poverty and
hunger
2. Achieve universal primary education
3. Promote gender equality and
empower women
4. Reduce child mortality
5. Improve maternal health
6. Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other
diseases
7. Ensure environmental sustainability
8. Develop a global partnership for
development
 Established 2000 & meant to be achieved 2015
The Eight Millennium Development Goals (MDG) are:
4.Which of the following was not one of the
1. Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
2. Achieve universal primary education MDGs?
3. Promote gender equality and empower women
a) Reducing maternal mortality
4. Reduce child mortality
5. Improve maternal health b) Achieving universal primary education
6. Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases c) Ensuring affordable housing for all
7. Ensure environmental sustainability
8. Develop a global partnership for development
d) Ensuring environmental sustainability
5.Which United Nations Summit established the
Millennium Development Goals in the year
2000?
a) Rio Summit
b) Copenhagen Summit
c) Beijing Summit
d) Millennium Summit
6.The MDGs aimed to reduce child mortality
and improve maternal health. Which MDG
numbers were associated with these goals,
respectively?
e) MDG 1 and MDG 2
b) MDG 2 and MDG 4
c) MDG 4 and MDG 5
 1.When were the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) officially adopted by the United Nations?
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals are as follows:
a)1990
1.No Poverty: End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
b) 2000
2.Zero Hunger: End hunger, achieve food security, and promote sustainable agriculture.
c) 2010
3.Good Health and Well-being: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
d) 2015
4.Quality Education: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
2.How many SDGs are there in total?
5.Gender Equality: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
a) 8
6.Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
b) 12
7.Affordable and Clean Energy: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
c) 17
8.Decent Work and Economic Growth: Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive
d) 20
employment, and decent work for all.
3.What is the primary objective of SDG 1?
9.Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization,
a) Ensure clean water and sanitation for all
and foster innovation.
b) Eradicate extreme poverty
10.Reduced Inequality: Reduce inequality within and among countries.
c) Promote gender equality
11.Sustainable Cities and Communities: Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. d) Combat climate change
12.Responsible Consumption and Production: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. 4.Which SDG aims to address issues related to affordable and clean energy?
a) SDG 4
13.Climate Action: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. b) SDG 5
14.Life Below Water: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for c) SDG 7
sustainable development. d) SDG 11

15.Life on Land: Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably 5.Which SDG focuses on the responsible consumption and production of goods and resources?
e) SDG 12
manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity
b) SDG 14
loss.
c) SDG 16
16.Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable
d) SDG 17
development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive 6.SDG 13 is dedicated to which global challenge?
institutions at all levels. f) Reducing inequality
17.Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global b) Climate action

partnership for sustainable development. c) Gender equality

d) Peace and justice
Damage to the ozone layer increases exposure to which form of Which of the following is a major source of methane
radiation which could potentially lead to skin cancer? emissions?
1. X-Rays
1. Agriculture
2. Radio waves
2. Energy
3. Ultraviolet radiation
3. Industry and Transportation
4. Infrared radiation
4. All of the above
Damage to the ozone layer increases exposure
to ultraviolet radiation, which could potentially Agriculture is the major sources of methane
lead to skin cancer. emissions.
Which of the following greenhouse gases have a significantly longer lifetime in
the atmosphere than others?
Which country is the largest producer of renewable
A. Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
energy in the world?
B. Methane (CH4)

C. Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

1. China
D. Black Carbon (BC) 2. Brazil
E. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
3. India
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
1. A and B only
4. United States
2. C and D only China is the largest producer of
3. C only renewable energy in the world.
4. A, C, and E only
1.Which of the following environmental 4.Which international agreement aims to address global climate change
issues is considered a global crisis by reducing greenhouse gas emissions?
a) Kyoto Protocol
impacting ecosystems and human
b) Paris Agreement
societies worldwide? c) Montreal Protocol
a) Regional deforestation d) Vienna Convention
b) Local air pollution 5.Ocean acidification, resulting from the absorption of excess carbon
c) Global climate change dioxide by the world's oceans, primarily affects:
d) Ocean acidification a) Coastal areas
b) Marine life and ecosystems
2.What is the primary driver of global
c) Freshwater lakes
climate change? d) Arctic regions
a) Deforestation 6.The major cause of global biodiversity loss is:
b) Ozone depletion a) Climate change
c) Greenhouse gas emissions b) Deforestation
d) Ocean pollution c) Pollution
d) Overfishing
3.The loss of species and degradation of
ecosystems on a global scale is known 1.c) Global climate change
as: 2.c) Greenhouse gas emissions
a) Local habitat destruction 3.d) Global biodiversity loss
b) Regional biodiversity loss 4.b) Paris Agreement
c) Desertification 5.b) Marine life and ecosystems
6.b) Deforestation
d) Global biodiversity loss
In comparison to pure water, Boiling point of Smog is: Which of the following is the basic unit of study of ecology?

impure water 1. Ozone and smoke 1. Population

2. Environment
1. is same 2. Vehicular pollutant
3. Biosphere
2. increases 3. Fog and smoke
4. Ecosystem
3. decreases
4. Fog and ozone Option 4 : Ecosystem
4. first decreases then Increases)
Option 3 : Fog and smoke
Option 2 : increases Which of the following gas is not responsible
What is the range of the intensity scale
for global warming?
Troposphere and Thermosphere belong to used in measuring earthquakes?
1. CO2
1. Atmosphere 1. 1 to 12
2. 1 to 7 2. Water vapour
2. Lithosphere
3. Hydrosphere
3. 1 to 15 3. N2O
4. 1 to 5
4. Biosphere 4. SO2
Option 1 : 1 to 12
Option 1 : Atmosphere Option 4 : SO2
Which of the following is NOT a "greenhouse gas"
Which of the following is not a natural hazard ?
Ozone holes are more pronounced at the
(GHG)?
1. Equator (A) Earthquake
1. Oxygen
2. Tropic of Cancer 2. Carbon dioxide
(B) Tsunami

3. Tropic of Capricorn 3. Water vapour (C) Flash floods

4. Poles 4. Methane D) Nuclear accident
Option 1 : Oxygen
Option 4 : Poles Option D
 • Damage to the ozone layer increases exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which could potentially
lead to skin cancer.

Damage to the
• Key Points

 region of Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation.

ozone layer 


high concentrations of ozone (O3) relative to other parts of the atmosphere

Ozone depletion is the gradual thinning of Earth's ozone layer- caused by the release of certain chemicals, such as

increases exposure chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), into the atmosphere.

 CFCs are used in a variety of products, including refrigerators, air conditioners, and fire extinguishers.

to which form of  stratosphere, they break down and release chlorine and bromine atoms.

radiation which  These atoms can then destroy ozone molecules. As a result, the ozone layer becomes thinner and less able to
protect Earth from the Sun's ultraviolet radiation.

could potentially  Increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause a variety of health problems, including skin cancer. Ultraviolet
radiation can damage DNA, which can lead to the development of cancer cells.

lead to skin cancer? •


The other options are not forms of radiation that are associated with skin cancer:

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with high energy. They are used in medical imaging and cancer
treatment.
1. X-Rays
 Radio waves are a form of electromagnetic radiation with low energy. They are used in radio communication and
television broadcasting.
2. Radio waves
 Infrared radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation with low energy. It is used in remote controls and night
3. Ultraviolet radiation vision goggles.

 It is important to protect yourself from the Sun's ultraviolet radiation, even if the ozone layer is not depleted. You
4. Infrared radiation can do this by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and a hat when you are outdoors.
 Key Points

Which of the  Agriculture is the largest source of methane emissions, accounting for about 40%

following is a major of global emissions. Methane emissions from agriculture come from livestock manure, rice
paddies, and enteric fermentation in animals.

source of methane  Energy is the second-largest source of methane emissions, accounting for about 35% of global
emissions. Methane emissions from energy come from the production, transportation, and use of

emissions? fossil fuels.

 Industry is the third-largest source of methane emissions, accounting for about 20% of global

1. Agriculture emissions. Methane emissions from industry come from coal mining, oil and gas production, and
other industrial processes.
2. Energy  Transportation is the smallest source of methane emissions, accounting for about 5% of global
emissions. Methane emissions from transportation come from the exhaust of vehicles.
3. Industry  Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential that is 25 times greater

and Transportation than carbon dioxide.

 However, even though methane has a short lifetime, it is still a major contributor to climate
4. All of the above change because it is emitted in such large quantities.
 It is important to reduce methane emissions from all sectors in order to mitigate climate change.
Agriculture is the
There are a number of ways to do this, such as improving manure management practices on
major sources of
farms, reducing fossil fuel production and use, and improving the efficiency of industrial
methane emissions.
processes.
 Which of the following Key Points
greenhouse gases have a  Carbon dioxide (CO2) has a significantly longer lifetime
significantly longer lifetime in the atmosphere than other greenhouse gases. It can
remain in the atmosphere for hundreds to thousands of
in the atmosphere than years.
others?  The other greenhouse gases have shorter lifetimes in the
A. Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
atmosphere:
B. Methane (CH4)
o Nitrous oxide (N2O) has a lifetime of about 114 years.
C. Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
o Methane (CH4) has a lifetime of about 12 years.
D. Black Carbon (BC)
o Black carbon (BC) has a lifetime of only a few days to weeks.
E. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
o Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have lifetimes ranging from 1 to 275
Choose the correct answer from
the options given below: years.
 It is important to note that even though CO2 has a long lifetime in the
1. A and B only
atmosphere, it does not mean that it is the most important greenhouse
2. C and D only gas.
3. C only  Methane and N2O have much higher global warming potentials than
4. A, C, and E only CO2, meaning that they are more potent greenhouse gases.
 However, CO2 is emitted in much larger quantities than other
1.What was the primary timeframe for achieving the
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)?
a) 2005
b) 2010
c) 2015
d) 2020
2.Which of the following was one of the eight MDGs?
a)Eradicating inflation
b) Ensuring access to clean water
c) Promoting global tourism
d) Enhancing space exploration
3.What was the first Millennium Development Goal
aimed at achieving?
a) Reducing child mortality
b) Promoting gender equality
c) Eradicating extreme poverty and hunger
2015 adopted SDG-deadline 2030-17 goals
4.Which of the following was not one of the
MDGs?
a) Reducing maternal mortality
b) Achieving universal primary education
c) Ensuring affordable housing for all
d) Ensuring environmental sustainability
5.Which United Nations Summit established the
Millennium Development Goals in the year 2000?
b) Rio Summit
c) Copenhagen Summit
d) Beijing Summit
e) Millennium Summit
6.The MDGs aimed to reduce child mortality and
improve maternal health. Which MDG numbers
were associated with these goals, respectively?
f) MDG 1 and MDG 2
b) MDG 2 and MDG 4
c) MDG 4 and MDG 5
d) MDG 5 and MDG 6
7.What was the final Millennium
Development Goal focused on?
a) Reducing inequality
b) Climate action
c) Promoting education
d) Building global partnerships for
development
8.Which of the following was a significant
criticism of the MDGs?
b) They lacked a timeline for achievement. Answers:
b) They did not address environmental 1.c) 2015
2.b) Ensuring access to clean water
sustainability adequately. 3.c) Eradicating extreme poverty and hunger
c) They were too focused on developed 4.c) Ensuring affordable housing for all
5.d) Millennium Summit
countries. 6.c) MDG 4 and MDG 5
d) They were too ambitious and unrealistic. 7.d) Building global partnerships for development
8.b) They did not address environmental sustainability
adequately.
1.When were the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) officially adopted by the United Nations?
a)1990
b) 2000
c) 2010
d) 2015
2.How many SDGs are there in total?
a) 8
b) 12
c) 17
d) 20
3.What is the primary objective of SDG 1?
b) Ensure clean water and sanitation for all
b) Eradicate extreme poverty
c) Promote gender equality
d) Combat climate change
4.Which SDG aims to address issues related to affordable and clean energy?
a) SDG 4
b) SDG 5
c) SDG 7
d) SDG 11
5.Which SDG focuses on the responsible consumption and production of goods and resources?
e) SDG 12
b) SDG 14
c) SDG 16
d) SDG 17
6.SDG 13 is dedicated to which global challenge?
f) Reducing inequality
b) Climate action
c) Gender equality
d) Peace and justice
7. What is the primary objective of SDG 3?
a) Quality education for all
b) Good health and well-being
c) Clean water and sanitation
d) Life below water
8. Which SDG focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans, seas, and marine
resources?
b) SDG 13
b) SDG 14 Answers:
1.d) 2015
c) SDG 15 2.c) 17
3.b) Eradicate extreme poverty
d) SDG 16 4.c) SDG 7
5.a) SDG 12
6.b) Climate action
7.b) Good health and well-being
8.b) SDG 14
 Natural hazards and disasters: Mitigation strategies

 Natural hazards and disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes,

floods, wildfires, and tsunamis, pose significant threats to human
safety, infrastructure, and the environment.
 While it may not be possible to prevent these events, mitigation
strategies aim to reduce their impact and enhance preparedness.
Here are some key mitigation strategies:
1. Land-Use Planning and Zoning:
 Establish and enforce building codes and zoning regulations that restrict construction in
high-risk areas, such as floodplains, earthquake-prone zones, and wildfire-prone regions.
 Promote resilient urban planning and sustainable land use to minimize vulnerability to
natural hazards.

2. Early Warning Systems:

 Develop and maintain early warning systems to provide timely information and alerts
about impending disasters, such as hurricanes, tsunamis, and floods.
 Implement evacuation plans and public education campaigns to ensure the public knows
how to respond to warnings.
3. Structural Measures:
•Retrofit or construct buildings and infrastructure to be more resilient to specific hazards. For
example, designing earthquake-resistant buildings, elevating structures in flood-prone areas,
and fire-resistant construction in wildfire zones.
•Implement stronger construction standards for new buildings and infrastructure.

4. Ecosystem-Based Approaches:
•Restore and protect natural ecosystems, such as wetlands, mangroves, and forests, which can
act as buffers against hazards like storm surges and landslides.
•Promote sustainable land and water management practices to reduce vulnerability to disasters.
5. Flood Control and Water Management:
•Develop flood control measures, including levees, dams, and reservoirs, to manage water resources and reduce
the risk of flooding.
•Implement efficient storm water management systems in urban areas to prevent flash floods.

6. Fire Management:
•Conduct controlled burns and fuel management to reduce the risk of wildfires spreading.
•Establish defensible zones around homes and communities in fire-prone areas.

7. Public Education and Awareness:

•Educate the public about the risks associated with natural hazards and the importance of preparedness,
including having emergency kits, evacuation plans, and family communication strategies.
•Conduct drills and simulations to ensure the community is well-prepared.
8. Building Codes and Standards:
•Enforce and update building codes and standards that incorporate the latest research and technology to
improve resilience.
•Implement strict seismic codes for earthquake-prone areas.

9. Infrastructure Resilience:
•Reinforce critical infrastructure such as power plants, water treatment facilities, and transportation
networks to withstand disasters.
•Develop redundancy in infrastructure systems to ensure that essential services can continue even
in the face of disruptions.

10. Insurance and Financial Preparedness:

•Encourage homeowners and businesses to obtain disaster insurance to facilitate recovery.
•Establish emergency funds and contingency plans at local, regional, and national levels.
11. International Cooperation:
•Collaborate with neighboring countries to address transboundary hazards,
such as tsunamis or pandemics.
•Share expertise and resources to enhance disaster response and recovery
efforts.
Mitigation strategies should be tailored to specific hazards and regional
circumstances. A combination of these strategies, along with robust
emergency response and recovery plans, can help communities reduce the
impact of natural hazards and disasters and enhance their resilience.