Evs Notes Thks
Evs Notes Thks
Evs Notes Thks
Parts/levels/components of environment
Multidisciplinary nature of Environmental
studies Scope and importance of environment
Sustainable development and their concepts.
(2 Lectures)
UNIT 2: ECOSYSTEM:
2. ECO-SYSTEM 9-18
"COURSE OUTCOME"
SUBJECT: 'ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES' [CBCS]
CO1 Analyze critical thinking skills in relation to environmental affairs and an integrative L4
approach to some environmental issues.
CO2 Describe the natural resource their pattern and also distinguish the various types of L2
resource and explain the structure and functions of an Eco-system.
CO3 Classify the term Bio-diversity and their characteristic features. L4
CO4 Defend to control the various types of pollution and segregation of waste and L5
criticize the merits and demerits of socio and religious factors, climate change and
current issues.
CO5 Categorized into few Environmental Act’s and justify the Human rights and their L4,L5
sections.
UNIT –I
Definition :
1. Lithosphere:
The lithosphere consist of excess of silica, manganese, phosphate
and other minerals. In this lithosphere the formation of desert and
ocean by all minerals.
The outer layer of earth is called ‘crust’, The mid part of earth is
called ‘Mantle’,
The lower region of earth is called ‘core’ core again divided into
inner core and outer core’.
Inner core lies behind the mantle and outer core lies behind inner core.
2. Atmosphere:
In Greek ‘Atmos’ means Air it raises upto 1000 km from the earth surface. It
contains ozone layer and it protest all from harmful ultra violet radiations.
3. Hydrosphere:
Hydro = water (H2O).
Our earth consists of 71% of water out of this 97% of water are sea
water or estuaries. Remaining 3% of water are fresh water.
All life are depends upon fresh water sources like Rivers, Streams,
Lakes, wells, Ponds etc.
4. Biosphere:
The term of Biosphere was named by the Geologist Sir Edward
Suess in the year 1857.
Bio means life, it includes all kinds of life.
35000 varieties of plants and 1,10,000,000 varieties of animals are present.
b) Sedimentary rocks
Ex: Pebbles, Marbles, Sediments etc
c) Metamorphic Rocks
Ex: Limestone, Talcum Powder, Chalk piece etc..
2. Environment Studies related to Chemistry:
Here we studied about the Chemical reactions, Chemical composition
the PH level of water soil etc.. the pH level of Drinking water is 6.5 to 7.5.
3. Environment Studies related to Botany:
Here we studied about plants, their age, growth,
Development, their Photosynthesis process etc.
4. Environment Studies related to Zoology:
Here we studied about Animals, including Birds, organizations
etc. it represents the life style, Natural Habitat their behavior,
hunting method, migration etc..
Sustainable Development:
Concepts:
1. To make Afforestation.
2. To control plastics and other hard substance.
3. To avoid all kinds of pollution.
4. To implement eco friendly vehicles like, solar vehicles, Bicycles etc…
5. To grow more medicinal plants.
6. To control garbage and debris in water resources.
7. Reduce the use of vehicles
8. To control modern urbanization.
UNIT –II
ECO SYSTEM
Definition :
It deals with the study of interrelationship between biotic and Abiotic factors.
The term Eco- System was coined by the botanist A.G Tansley in the year 1935.
1. Biotic Factors
2. Abiotic Factors
1. Biotic factors :
All living beings, it includes three factors
a) Producers
b) Consumers
c) Decomposers
2. Abiotic factors :
Non living beings, it includes
a) Water
b) Air
c) Light
d) Temperature
e) Soil
f) Climate
Types of Forests
1. Coniferous forest
Ex : Amazon forest
2. Temperate Rainfall forest
Ex: Chirapoonji, Agumbe etc..
3. Temperate Decidous forest
Ex: Bandipura, Nagarahole etc..
1. Biotic factos :
All living beings. there are three categories,
a) Producers :
Produces are those, which prepare their own food and except sunlight
they do not depends on others.
Ex: Plants / Herbs / Medicinal plants etc.
b) Consumers :
Consumers are those, which directly or indirectly depends upon
producers for their food.
There are three types of consumers;
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i) Primary consumers:
Primary consumes are those, which only depends on
producers for their food (Herbivores)
Ex: Deer/Rabbit/ Hare/Bison etc.
ii) Secondary Consumers:
Secondary consumers are those which depends on primary
consumers for their food (Middle carnivores)
Ex: Fox/ wolf / Hyena etc.
iii) Tertiary Consumers:
Tertiary consumers are those, it depends either secondary
consumers or primary consumers for their food. (Top carnivores)
Ex: Lion/Tiger/Leopard/Bear
etc. c). Decomposer:
Decomposer are those, which converts organic substance into
inorganic substance in soil through Micro Organic.(By releasing a
chemical called ‘Ethyliminoalane’)
Ex: Termites / Bacteria / Earthworm etc..
2. Abiotic factors:
Non- living beings. It includes,
a) Water:
Water is an universal solvent because most of the substance
dissolved in water. Life cannot exist without water.
b) Air:
Air is a mixture of gas. It is helpful for respiration to all kinds of life.
c) Light:
Sun is the major source of light, it is helpful for the development of
plants by photosynthesis process.
d) Temperature:
Grassland Eco-System :
1. Terai Grassland :
2. Bhugyal Grassland:
It is high attitude alpine grassland in Uttarakhand. It is also
known as nature’s own garden.
3. Khazziar Grassland:
It locates in Himalayan region, Himachal Pradesh and in dense forests.
4. Bunny Grassland:
It locates in edges of dessert ran of Kutch, Gujarat. It is also known
as rich wildlife Biodiversity.
5. Shola Grassland:
It locates in south Indian regions specially found in higher altitude
hill regions of the Nilgiris, Kanyakumari, Western Ghats of
Karnataka, Kerala and Tamilnadu.
A. Biotic factors :
All Living beings. There are three categories,
1. Producers:
2. Producers are those, which prepare their own food and except sunlight it
do not depends on others. (Autotrophs) Ex: Grass / Herbs / shrubs etc..
3. Consumers:
Consumers are those which directly or indirectly depends upon
producers for their food. Consumer is off three types.
i) Primary Consumers: Primary consumers are those, which only
depends upon producers for their food. (herbivores).
Ex: Grasshopper/Moths/Insects etc.
ii) Secondary Consumers : Secondary consumers are those, which
depends on primary consumers for their food.(middle carnivores).
Ex: Snake/ Frog/ Monitor lizard etc..
iii) Tertiary Consumer: Tertiary consumers either depends on secondary
consumers nor primary consumers for their food (Top carnivores).
Ex: Eagle/ Hawk / vulture etc.
3. Decomposer :
Decomposer are those, which converts organic substance into
inorganic substances in soil through Micro organisms. Ex: Termites /
Bacteria / Earthworm etc..
B. Abiotic factors:
a) Water: Water is an universal solvent, because most of the substances
dissolved in water. Life cannot exist without water.
b) Air:
Air is a mixture of gas it is essential for refrigeration.
c) Light:
Sun is the major source of light it is essential for photosynthesis
process in plants.
d) Temperature:
i) Minimum – if the weather is too cold.
ii) Optimism – if the weather is in normal condition.
iii) Maximum– if the weather is too hot.
e) Soil:
Soil is texture, it includes all minerals, nutrients and rich in fertility. It is also
essential for decomposing process of dead and decomposing organisms.
f) Climate:
i) Spring season
ii) Summer season
iii) Autumn season
iv) Winter season.
Aquatic Eco-System :
A. Biotic factors :
There are three biotic factors.
a) Producers:
Produces are those, which prepare their own food and except
sunlight, they do not depends on others.
Ex: Algae / Phytoplanktons etc.
b) Consumers:
Consumers are those, which directly or indirectly depends upon
producers for their food. Consumer in off three types:
i) Primary consumers:
Primary consumes are those, which only depends on producers for
their food. (Herbivores)
Ex: Frog/ Snail/ Crab etc.
ii) Secondary Consumers:
Secondary consumers are those, which depends on primary consumers for
their food (Middle carnivores)
Ex: Small fishes.
iii) Tertiary Consumers:
Tertiary consumers are those, it depends either secondary
consumers or primary consumers for their food. (Top carnivores)
Ex: Large fishes.
c) Decomposer:
Decomposer are those, which converts organic substance into
inorganic substances in water through Micro orgsnisms.
Ex: Bacteria / Fungus etc.
B. Abiotic factors:
a) Water
b) Air
c) Light
d) Temperature
e) Climate
A) Biotic factors:
c) Decomposers:
Decomposer are those, which converts organic substance into inorganic substances
in water through Micro organisms.
Ex: Bacteria / Fungus etc.
B) Abiotic factors:
f) Water
g) Air
h) Light
i) Temperature
j) Climate:
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Ocean Ecosystem:
A) Biotic factors:
There are three biotic factors.
a) Producers:
Produces are those, which prepare their won food and except
sunlight they do not depends on others.
Ex: Zoo planktons / Algae etc.
b) Consumers:
Consumers are those, which directly or indirectly depends upon
producers for their food.
Consumer is off three types:
i) Primary consumers:
It only depends on producers for their food. (Herbivores)
Ex: Turtle / Prawns/ Crabs etc.
ii) Secondary consumers:
Secondary consumers are those which depends on primary
consumers for their food (Middle carnivores)
Ex: Small and Big Fishes.
c) Decomposers:
Decomposer are those, which converts organic substance into inorganic
substances in water through Micro organisms.
Ex: Bacteria / Fungus etc..
B) Abiotic factors:
a) Water
b) Air
c) Sunlight
d) Temperature
e) Climate:
6. The energy get transformed from lower tropic level to upper tropic level.
7. Convention of organic form into inorganic form in soil / water is
called decomposing process.
8. About 57% of energy is striking towards the atmosphere.
9. About 35% of energy is striking towards the earth surface.
10. Remaining 8% of energy striking towards plant surface in the
form of photosynthesis.
Food Chain:
The flow of energy transfer from producer to primary, secondary and tertiary
consumers and to decomposers at different tropic level is called food chain.
Ex:
a) Forest Ecosystem:
Plants – Rabbit – Fox -Lion– Termites
b) Grass land Ecosystem:
Grass – Grass hopper – Snake – Hawk- Earthworm
c) Lake / pond Ecosystem:
Algae – Crab – Small fishes – Large fishes – Bacteria
d) Ocean Ecosystem:
Zoo planktons – Turtle – Large Fishes – Shark / Whale – Bacteria / Fungus.
e) River eco –system
Phyto planktons – Frog – Large fishes – Crocodile – Fungus.
Food Web:
The inter linking or inter connection of different food chains or different eco system
present in a particular regions is called food web. Every kind of food is eaten by
different kinds of organisms.
Ecological Succession:
1. Initial cause :
Initial cause are Forest fire, Soil erosion etc..
2. Continuous cause:
Continuous causes are Competition/ Migration/ War/ Struggle/ Hunting etc..
3. Stability cause:
Stability causes like stable in environment. Such as rocks, soil
UNIT –III
NATURAL RESOURCE
Definition :
The necessities that are required for the service of mankind / life is known as resource.
Types of Resource :
1. Land resource
2. Forest resource
3. Water resource
4. Energy resource
5. Food resource
1. Land Resource :
India consists of about 329 million hectares of land. Out of these only 306
million hectares of land were surveyed and researched. Remaining 23 million
hectares of land could not or unable to research, because such places are very thick
forests, few hot deserts and bushy areas etc..
Land degradation:
Loss of Minerals fertility and loss of potential and physical strengths leads
to land degradation.
Causes / Reasons:
1. By excess of Mining
2. By rapid urbanization
3. By over digging of land
4. By landslides, earthquakes etc
5. By using high amount of pesticides
6. By dumping buildings wastes on earth. .
7. By harming underground level.
8. By the settlement of plastics inside the earth.
9. By deforestation.
10. By making homes and buildings on hilly region.
Effects :
Controlling measures :
Soil Erosion:
1. Sheet Erosion :
Eroding of soil only on upper surface of soil like sheet or slope like structure.
2. Rill Erosion :
Eroding of soil on both upper and lower surface region of soil by ring,
curvy or stream like structure.
Ex: By Hurricanes, Rain on Hills.
3. Gully Erosion :
Eroding of soil both on upper and lower surface region of soil
like tiny channels in all surface.
Ex: By landslides, Earthquake, volcanoes etc.
Effects:
Controlling Measures:
Deforestation:
Reckless cutting of trees and destroying of forests by humans is called deforestation.
Causes / Reasons:
Effects:
1. Decrease in Rain.
2. It collapses vegetation.
3. Lands become barren.
4. I affects the nutrients in soil
5. Leads to soil erosion
6. It affects birds and animals by loss of shelter.
7. It also affects the life styles of tribal people.
8. It collapses natural eco system.
9. Increase in temperature.
10. Leads to global warming.
Controlling Measures:
Desertification:
The place having the rainfall of below 25 cm and ultimately the land converted
into a desert like condition due to loss of fertility in soil is called desertification.
Causes / Reasons
1. By deforestation.
2. By land degradation.
3. By overgrazing of domestic animals.
4. Due to less rainfall.
5. Due to increase in temperature.
6. By drought and volcanoes.
7. By excess of mining.
8. Improper cultivation practices in agricultural fields.
Effects:
1. It affects vegetation.
2. Global warming may occur.
3. Decreases rainfall.
4. Disease may occur like skin disease, skin rashes etc..
5. Psoriasis may occur.
6. Destruction of species in an ecosystem.
7. It collapses the minerals.
8. It affects nutrients in soil.
Controlling Measures:
1. To make afforestation.
2. Avoid over grazing.
3. To contest global warming.
4. Reclamation of soil.
5. Following scientific cultivation technique.
6. Restoring the soil moisture.
7. To control excess o mines.
8. To grow more plants and trees.
Uses of Dams:
1. It is essential for modern lifestyle areas.
2. It helps to store the water in huge content.
3. It helps to supply water for all residential areas.
4. It also helpful to factories and industries.
5. It helps to generate Hydro Electricity.
6. It also helpful to secrete water during drought conditions.
7. It improves water canals and rivers.
8. It also helps to give water to neighboring states / countries.
9. It controls excess of floods.
10. It improves water holding capacity in ground water.
Uses of Water:
1. For agricultural practices.
2. For industrial purpose.
3. For domestic use.
4. Recreation purpose (water, parks, water fountains etc.)
5. For mining.
6. For farmers and poultry.
7. For other purpose like garage, hospitality, school and colleges etc.
The present capita availability of natural water in India per annum is 1820 cubic meter
1. By population explosion
2. By extensive modern agricultural practice.
3. Due to rapid industrialization.
4. By modern urbanization.
5. By tourism and recreation.
6. By wasting water in gardening and parks.
7. Due to construction of excess of buildings.
8. By polling water in cunning the buildings.
9. By wasting water in poultry and in farming.
10. By washing vehicles.
11. By over digging of ground water.
12. By wasting water in toilets, cinema halls, street taps, water tanks etc..
Flood:
Overflow of run-off water or rain water in large areas due to sudden
increase in the water level is called flood.
Causes / Reasons:
7. By rapid urbanization.
8. By damaging rive and wells.
9. Due to unscientific drainage facilities.
10. By excess of debris segregate in dams, water canals etc..
Effects:
Controlling measures:
Drought:
Effects:
Controlling measures:
1. To make afforestation.
2. To control population
3. Limit usage of water
4. Proper utilization of surface and ground water.
5. To grow more plants, tress and medical plants.
6. By adopting rain water, harvesting and ground water recharge technique.
5. River Brahmaputra
China and India
6. River Sindhu
India > Pakistan and Afghanistan
Energy Resources:
Ex:
a) Coal: The annual production of coal in India is 2,40,748 million tones / year.
b) Oil and petroleum :
The annual production of oil and petroleum in India is 1700 million
tones / year.
c) Natural Gas :
The annual production is 500 billion cubic meter / year.
2. Non – Commercial source of energy:
b) Hydro Energy :
i) Used to generate Hydro Electricity.
ii) Used to produce power supply.
iii) Used mainly in domestic purpose.
c) Wind Energy:
i) Used to measure the speed and the direction of winds.
ii) Used to generate electricity
iii) Used to fetch water in agricultural fields.
d) Tidal waves energy :
i) By using waves of sea to generate electricity.
ii) It requires low maintenance.
iii) It do not produce green house gas.
e) Geo- thermal Energy :
i) The Energy harvested from the earth internal heat.
ii) The energy is free of cost.
Ex:
a. Fuels :
i. Petrol: it doesn’t easily evaporate, it is brown red colors.
ii. Diesel: it easily evaporates, it is algal green color.
iii. Kerosene: used in kitchen, used in boiling, used in lamps.
iv. White kerosene: used as a fuel in Aeroplane, Jets,
Helicopters etc.. Also used in watch repairs.
b. Few minerals like
i. Coal
ii. Platinum etc.
1. Ethanol :
a. It is used as an additional source in petrol.
b. It is easily dissolved in water.
2. Ethyl Alcohol :
a. Used in Beverages, Hot drinks and in phenyl’s
b. Also used in Forensic laboratories.
3. L.P.G :
“Liquefied petroleum Gas”
a. Used in Kitchen to cook.
b. Also used in few vehicles as fuel.
c. Mainly used in Laboratories, Factories and in industry.
4. Hydrogen:
a. It is used as a fuel in Rocket.
5. Nitrogen:
a. Used in all instant food pockets milk and milk products, coffee or tea
powder to maintain the quality of the food.
b. Used as a Air in few vehicle tyres.
Circulation of Air:
UNIT – IV
CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY
Definition:
Importance of Biodiversity:
2. Species diversity :
a. Felis Cat :
Panther Leo – Lion
Panther Tiger – Tiger
Panthera Leopard – Leopard etc…
b. Aves / Birds :
The variation that exists among different eco – system in bio diversity.
Flora [Plants]: Deodar tree, Camphor Tree, Caster Tree, Acacia etc.
5. The Desert
Zone : Places:
a. Thar Desert in Rajasthan.
b. Gulf / Runn of Kutch in Gujarath.
Flora:Dates, Cactus, Bunny Grasslands, Thorns, Shorea trees etc..
2. Lakshadweep Islands
Fauna: Viper Snake, Anaconda, Lion – tailed Macaque, Spoon billed birds,
Golden Langur etc.
Flora – Plants
ii) Animlas:
1. Tiger - ºÀÄ°
2. Asiatic Lion - KµÁåzÀ ¹AºÀ
3. Pangolin -a¥ÀÄà ºÀA¢
4. Orangutan - aA¥ÁAf
5. Malabar Tree Toad - ªÀÄ®¨Ágï ªÀÄgÀ PÀ¥Éà
6. Gharial - G¥ÀÄà ¤Ãj£À ªÉƸÀ¼É
7. Sea horse - ¸ÀªÀÄÄzÀæ PÀÄzÀÄgÉ
8. Grizzly bear - PÀAzÀÄ PÀgÀr
9. Slender Loris - PÁqÀÄ ¥Á¥À
10. Red crown roofed turtle - PÉA¥ÀÄ bÁªÀt ºÁ¹£À DªÉÄ
11. Indian Rhinoceros - WÉÃAqÁ ªÀÄÈUÀ
12. King cobra - PÁ½AUÀ ¸À¥Àð
India is one of the 12 th Mega Bio Diversity nations across the world. 70% of total area of
the country surveyed by biodiversity. Over all 6% of Global species are found in India. The total
number of lining species identified in our country is more than 12,28,000 and above.
Some of the distribution of species in some major groups of Flora and fauna in India.
Hunter shark
Tiger shark etc…
b) Whales : Blue whale
Sperm whale
Melon – Headed whale
Humpback whale
Fin whale
14. There are 300 varieties of Medical plants found in India.
Ex: Neem, Peepal, Holy basil, Tinospora Cordifolia, Indian Snake root etc..
Any Bio Geographical area having 0.5% of world plant species such places
are called Hot Spots.
British Ecologist “Norman Myer” named the term Hot Spot in 1988.
South America
6. Atlantic forest.
7. Tropical andies
8. Valdivia forests
9. Cerrado
South America
South Africa
17. India
18. Nepal
19. Myanmar
20. Sir Lanka
21. Bhutan
East Asia
22. Japan
23. China- Mountains
Asia Pacific
29. Wallacea
30. South west Australia
31. Polynesia – Micronesia
West Asia
Conflicts:
1. In Sambalpur - Orissa-
More than 195 people killed by wild elephants. For its retaliation the
villagers killed 98 elephants and badly injured 30 wile elephants.
2. In Sunderban forest West Bengal around 100 people killed by Bengal
Tigers. For its retaliation people killed merely 30 tigers.
3. During 1978-1991 in Gujarat 28 people killed by Asiatic lions.
4. During 1989-1994 is Bihar and U.P 48 people killed by cloth bear, for its
retaliation, people killed 13-15 cloth bears.
5. During 1989-1994 in south Indian states, more than 242 peoples killed &
injured by temple elephants.
6. In western ghatts region so mamny people killed and affected by snake bites
1. In - Situ Conservation.
2. Ex – Situ Conservation.
The value used for our daily consumption or for service in a Biodiversity
The Value associated with few religious and social beliefs in biodiversity.
The value or service with few ethics and morality in a bio diversity.
b) To Control Pollution.
Ex:
a) Wildlife protection Act (1972 )
b) Forest Conservation Act (1980)
c) Environment Protection Act (1986)
b) Water cycle
c) Oxygen cycle etc.
UNIT - V
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
According to E.P Odum pollution can be defined as any undesirable
change occur through physically, chemically and biologically in the environment.
Pollutants:
Source of Pollution :
1. Natural pollution
a. Earthquake
b. Flood
c. Cyclones
d. Tsunami
Air Pollution:
Causes / Reasons :
Effects :
Controlling measures :
Water Pollution:
Effects :
Controlling Measures:
a. By vehicle horn
b. Due to excess of vehicles
c. By over – digging machines
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Effects :
Controlling Measures :
Soil Pollution:
Effects:
Controlling measures:
Thermal Pollution:
Release of hot wastes and hot water by heat industries leads to thermal pollution.
Causes / Reasons:
Effects
a. It affects skin
b. Loss of hair
c. Physical and mental stress.
d. Increase in temperature.
e. Ozone layer depletion.
Controlling measures
Radioactive Pollution:
Due to release of Radioactive substances by various sources leads to
Radioactive pollution.
Causes / Reasons:
Effects
Controlling measures :
Nuclear Hazards:
Bhopal gas tragedy or Bhopal gas disaster is also considered as world’s worst disaster.
It was caused by the accident release of about 40 tons of MIC (Methyl Iso-
Cyanate) to the air from union carbide India Limited., a pesticide manufacturing plant.
Reason:
a. During water washing the water leakage enters into tank contains about
410 tons of MIC.
b. Due to exothermic reaction the Toxic gas acquired entire atmosphere
Effects:
a. Lot of people loss their life.
b. Respiration problem
c. Lung disorder
d. Nerve damage
e. Skin disorder
f. Leaves get barren
g. Death of animal and
birds. After disaster:
a. The CEO of UCIL arrested
b. Compensation given to affected people and death family.
c. Lot of medical unit open
d. Corpse collected and dumped in Narmada river.
e. The accused relevant to disaster were arrested.
f. The plant finally seized and restricted to peoples.
2. A violation of procedures.
3. Breakdown of communication
Effects :
Solid Waste:
3. Agriculture waste
1. Biodegradable waste :
2. Garbage bins
4. Block collection
5. Krebsite collection
6. Segregated in plant
1. Open dumping
2. Landfill
3. Sanitary landfill
4. Incineration
5. Composting
UNIT – 6
The primary cause of climate change is the burning of fossil fuels, such as oil and coal,
which emits greenhouse gases into the atmosphere—primarily carbon dioxide. Other
human activities, such as agriculture and deforestation, also contribute to the proliferation
of greenhouse gases that cause climate change.
Global Warming?
Global warming is the slow increase in the average temperature of the earth’s
atmospherebecause an increased amount of the energy (heat) striking the earth from the
sun is being trapped in the atmosphere and not radiated out into space.
The earth’s atmosphere has always acted like a greenhouse to capture the sun’s heat,
ensuring that the earth has enjoyed temperatures that permitted the emergence of life
forms as we know them, including humans.
Without our atmospheric greenhouse the earth would be very cold. Global warming, however, is the
equivalent of a greenhouse with high efficiency reflective glass installed the wrong way around.
The most common and most talked about greenhouse gases is CO2 or carbon dioxide.
In fact, because it is so common, scientists use it as the benchmark or measure of
things that warm the atmosphere.
Methane, another important GHG, for example, is 28-36 times as warming as CO2 when
in the upper atmosphere (USEPA GWP – Global Warming Potential – estimate over 100
years), therefore, 1 ton of methane = 28-36 tons eCO2 or CO2 equivalents.
Acid rain:
Acid rain, or acid deposition, is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation with acidic
components, such as sulfuric or nitric acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere in wet
or dry forms. This can include rain, snow, fog, hail or even dust that is acidic.
Causes of Acid Rain:
The causes of acid rain can be both natural and man-made. Both volcanoes and decaying
vegetation release gases that result in the formation of acid rain. However, the majority of
gases come from man-made sources, such as fossil fuel combustion.
In the United States, around two-thirds of sulfur dioxide and one-quarter of nitrogen
oxides in the atmosphere are
released from electric power generation due to burning fossil fuels. The exhaust from vehicles
also releases both gases into the air, so the more vehicles, the more risk of acid rain.
respiratory problems or make breathing more difficult. Acid rain can also cause building materials to
decay more rapidly and paint more likely to peel. The acidity also wears down stone statues,
making them appear older and reducing their value.
Ozone layer depletion causes increased UV radiation levels at the Earth's surface, which is damaging
to human health. Negative effects include increases in certain types of skin cancers, eye cataracts and
immune deficiency disorders. UV rays also affect plant growth, reducing agricultural productivity.
Controlling measures of ozone depletion:
Avoid the consumption of gases dangerous to the ozone layer, due to their content or
manufacturing process. ...
1. Minimize the use of cars.
2. Do not use cleaning products that are harmful to the environment and to us
3. Banning the use of ozone depletion substance like CFC, HFC, Freons etc
4. By use Eco-friendly vehicles like; electric vehicles, solar bus, bicycles etc.
5. To ban fire crackers and explosives.
ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS:
1. Wildlife protection Act – 1972:
Objectives of the Wild Life Protection Act:
To prohibit hunting of wild animals; birds, etc. and impose punishment for violating the same.
The schedules give absolute protection to certain species and these cannot be infringed on any
account. To provide security to animals that are not in danger of becoming extinct.
“Environment” the word environment includes water, air, land and also the inter-relation
between their existence. It also includes human beings and other living creatures such as
plants, micro-organisms and property.
“Environmental Pollutants” means any substance in solid, liquid or gaseous form
which in consideration is injurious to the health of living beings.
“Handling” means any substance which is in the relation of being manufactured, processed,
collected, used, offered for sale or like of such substance.
“Environmental Pollution” includes the presence of environmental pollutants in the
environment. “Hazardous substance” includes the substance or the preparation by which
the physical-chemical property is liable to harm the human beings or other living creatures
such as plants, microorganisms and the property.
“Occupier” is in the relation of factory or any other premises which means a person who has
control over the affairs of it.
Power of the Central government for measures to protect and improve the Environment
It is the power vested in the central government that they can take any reasonable and valid steps
and measures for the purpose of the protection and improvement of the quality of the environment.
The central government in the exercise of powers designated by the Act can issue the directions in
writing to any of the person or any officer. They shall be bound to comply with these given directions.
The powers to issue directions will include the power to direct which are as follows:
(i) The direction of closure, prohibition or the regulation of any industry and its operational process.
(ii)direction for the stoppage or regulation of the supply of electricity, including any other services.
Section 8 provides that any person who is handling the hazardous substance needs to comply with the
procedural safeguards. If the emission is to a very large extent or is apprehended through an accident,
the person responsible for it is obliged to mitigate from that place in order to reduce the environmental
pollution.
Penalty for the Contravention of Rules and orders of this Act
As it was stated earlier that the most important goal of the environmental protection act is to provide for
the punishment of the offence of endangering the human environment, safety and health.
Section 15states that any person who is not complying to the provisions stated in this act and
its failure or contravention will make him liable and punishable as the following:
Section 16 of the Environmental Protection Act, 1986 explains the principle of vicarious
liability of the Incharge person such as directors, Managers and secretary etc for if the offence
is committed by any company.
Bars to the jurisdiction:
The Act has barred the civil court to entertain any proceedings in respect of any action
taken by the central government. Most of the cases in India, pertaining to Environmental Law
have to come before the courts in the form of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) and can be filed
in High Courts and Supreme Courts.
Conclusion:
Though many other Acts related to Environment have been introduced to the Indian
legislature but the Environment Protection Act, 1986 has been drafted to cover all the
aspects and problems of environment and hence, it is said to be beneficial to understand the
provisions related to an environment specifically.
wholesomeness of water, for the establishment, with a view to carrying out the purposes aforesaid, of
Boards for the prevention and control of water pollution, for conferring on and assigning to such Boards
powers.
CHAPTER VII PENALTIES AND PROCEDURE 41. Failure to comply with directions under sub-section
(2) or subsection (3) of section 20, or orders issued under clause (c) of subsection (1) of section 32 or
directions issued under sub-section (2) of section 33 or section 33A 42. Penalty for certain acts 43.
Penalty for contravention of provisions of section 24 44. Penalty for contravention of Section 25 or
section 26 45. Enhanced penalty after previous conviction 45A. Penalty for contravention of certain
provisions of the Act 46. Publication of names of offenders 47. Offences by companies 48. Offences by
Government Departments 49. Cognizance of offences 50. Members, officers and servants of Board to be
public servants.
CHAPTER VIII MISCELLANEOUS51. Central Water Laboratory 52. State Water Laboratory 53.
Analysts 54. Reports of analysts 55. Local authorities to assist 56. Compulsory acquisition of land for the
State Board 57. Returns and reports xxvi SECTIONS 58. Bar of Jurisdiction 59. Protection of action
taken in good faith 60. Overriding effect 61. Power of Central Government to supersede the Central
Board and Joint Boards 62. Power of State Government to supersede State Board 63. Power of Central
Section 2 of the Act deals with a restriction on the de-reservation of forests or the use of
forest-land for non-forest purposes. It provides that anything contained in any other law for the
time being in force in a state, no state government or any other authority shall make, except
with prior approval of the central government, any order directing-
a) That any reserved forest declared under any law for the time being in force in that state or
any portion, shall cease to be reserved.
b) That any forest land or any portion thereof may be used for any non-forest purpose.
c) That any forest land or any portion may be cleared of trees which have grown naturally in
that land or portion, for the purpose of using it for re-afforestation.
The term ‘non-forest purposes’ implies the breaking up or cleaning of any forest-land or portion
of forest land for-
a) The cultivation of tea, coffee, spices, rubber, palms, oil-bearing, plants, or medicinal plants,
b) Any purposes other than re-afforestation,
But does not include any work related to conservation, development, and management of
forests and wildlife.
Rulemaking Power:
Power to make rules for carrying out the provisions of this act is vested with the central government.
Every such rule shall be laid down before each house of the parliament for a period of 30 days.
Appeals:
The appeal from the decision of any authority under this Act shall lie to the National Green
Tribunal. Any aggrieved person may file such appeal.
Penalties:
Penalty for contravention of the provisions of this Act- section 3-Aof this act provides that whoever
contravenes or abets the conservation of any of the provision of section 2, above mentioned shall be
punishable with simple imprisonment for a period, which may extend to fifteen days.
INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS:
MONTREAL PROTOCOL:
The Montreal Protocol, finalized in 1987, is a global agreement to protect the stratospheric
ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).
The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (the Montreal
Protocol) is an international agreement made in 1987. It was designed to stop the production
and import of ozone depleting substances and reduce their concentration in the atmosphere to
help protect the earth's ozone layer.
Parties: As of 23 June 2015, all countries in the United Nations, the Cook Islands, Holy See,
Niue as well as the European Union have ratified the original Montreal Protocol (see external link
below), with South Sudan being the last country to ratify the agreement, bringing the total to 197.
The Montreal Protocol sits under the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer (the
Vienna Convention). The Vienna Convention was adopted in 1985 following international
discussion of scientific discoveries in the 1970s and 1980s highlighting the adverse effect of human
activity on ozone levels in the stratosphere and the discovery of the ‘ozone hole’. Its objectives are
to promote cooperation on the adverse effects of human activities on the ozone layer.
16 September is International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. It celebrates the
anniversary of the day the Montreal Protocol came into effect.
The Montreal Protocol is widely considered as the most successful environment protection
agreement. It sets out a mandatory timetable for the phase out of ozone depleting substances.
This timetable has been reviewed regularly, with phase out dates accelerated in accordance
with scientific understanding and technological advances
The Montreal Protocol sets binding progressive phase out obligations for developed and developing
countries for all the major ozone depleting substances, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs),
halons and less damaging transitional chemicals such as hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). The
Montreal Protocol targets 96 ozone depleting chemicals in thousands of applications across more
than 240 industrial sectors. In 2016 the Montreal Protocol also became responsible for setting
binding progressive phase down obligations for the 18 main hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
The Montreal Protocol has been further strengthened through six Amendments, which have
brought forward phase out schedules and added new substances to the list of substances
controlled under the Montreal Protocol. The Amendments are:
London 1990
Copenhagen 1992
Vienna 1995
Montreal 1997
Beijing 1999
Kigali 2016
The Protocol includes provisions related to Control Measures (Article 2), Calculation of control levels
(Article 3), Control of trade with non-Parties (Article 4), Special situation of developing countries (Article
5), Reporting of data (Article 7), Non-compliance (Article 8), Technical assistance (Article 10)
The parties to the Protocol meet once a year to make decisions aimed at ensuring the
successful implementation of the agreement. These include adjusting or amending the
Protocol, which has been done six times since its creation.
KYOTO PROTOCOL:
The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement that aimed to manage and reduce
carbon dioxide emissions and greenhouse gases. The Protocol was adopted at a conference
in Kyoto, Japan, in 1997 and became international law on February 16, 2005.
The Kyoto Protocol operationalizes the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change by committing industrialized countries and economies in transition to limit and reduce
greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions in accordance with agreed individual targets.
It was adopted in Kyoto, Japan, on December 11, 1997, and entered into force on February 16,
2005. The detailed rules for the implementation of the Protocol were adopted at COP 7 in
Marrakesh, Morocco, in 2001, and are referred to as the “Marrakesh Accords.” Its first
commitment period started in 2008 and ended in 2012.
Specifically, under the Protocol and during the first commitment period, the industrialized countries had
committed to reduce, during the period 2008–12, the emissions of six gases responsible for global
warming, namely carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons,
and hexafluoride sulfur, at least by 5% compared to 1990 levels. In this context, EU
member states pledged to reduce their emissions by 8% during this period.
In Doha, Qatar, on December 8, 2012, the Kyoto Protocol was amended in order to include 13:
•
new commitments of its Parties for the period 2013–20;
•
a revised list of GHGs to be reported in the second commitment period; and
•
amendments to several articles of the Kyoto Protocol that required to be updated for
the second commitment period.
During the second commitment period, Parties committed to reduce the GHG emissions by at
least 18% below 1990 levels in the 8-year period from 2013 to 2020; however, the
composition of Parties in the second commitment period is different from the first.
The Protocol offers three market-based mechanisms to its Parties to achieve their targets. Specifically, the
13
Kyoto mechanisms are :
•
International Emissions Trading. Emissions trading, as set out in Article 17 of the Kyoto
Protocol, allows countries that have emission units to spare—emissions permitted them
but not “used”—to sell this excess capacity to countries that are over their targets. Thus, a
new commodity was created in the form of emission reductions or removals. Since carbon
dioxide is the principal GHG, people speak simply of trading in carbon. Carbon is now
tracked and traded like any other commodity. This is known as the “carbon market”.
PREAMBLE:
Article 1. Objectives
Article 2. Use of Terms
Article 3. Principle
Article 4. Jurisdictional Scope
Article 5. Cooperation
Article 6. General Measures for Conservation and
Sustainable Use Article 7. Identification and Monitoring
Article 8. In-situ Conservation
Article 9. Ex-situ Conservation
Article 10. Sustainable Use of Components of Biological Diversity
Article 11. Incentive Measures
Article 12. Research and Training
Article 13. Public Education and Awareness
Article 14. Impact Assessment and Minimizing Adverse
Impacts Article 15. Access to Genetic Resources
Article 16. Access to and Transfer of technology
Article 17. Exchange of Information
Article 18. Technical and Scientific Cooperation
Article 19. Handling of Biotechnology and Distribution of its Benefits
Article 20. Financial Resources
Article 21. Financial Mechanism
Article 22. Relationship with Other International
Conventions Article 23. Conference of the Parties
Article 24. Secretariat
Article 25. Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological
Advice Article 26. Reports
Article 27. Settlement of Disputes
Article 28. Adoption of Protocols
Article 29. Amendment of the Convention or
Protocol Article 30. Adoption and Amendment of
Annexes Article 31. Right to Vote
Article 32. Relationship between this Convention and Its
Protocols Article 33. Signature
Article 34. Ratification, Acceptance or Approval
Article 35. Accession
Article 36. Entry Into Force
Article 37. Reservations
Article 38. Withdrawals
Article 39. Financial Interim Arrangements
Article 40. Secretariat Interim Arrangements
Article 41. Depositary
Article 42. Authentic texts
Annex I. Identification and Monitoring
Annex II - Part 1. Arbitration
BIOSPHERE RESERVE:
Biosphere reserves promote solutions reconciling the conservation of biodiversity
with its sustainable use. They are learning areas for sustainable development.
The World Network of Biosphere Reserves, currently comprising 669 sites/regions designated
by UNESCO in 120 countries since 1976, is a unique global network explicitly linking
sustainable development and biodiversity conservation. While the core area(s) and sometimes
buffer zone(s) of all biosphere reserves (BRs) comprise protected areas as recognized by
IUCN, the outer transition area, where most of the inhabitants of BRs live, cannot be regarded
as a protected area – often, these transition areas include towns and cities.
These three functions are pursued through the Biosphere Reserves' three main zones:
Core Areas
It comprises a strictly protected zone that contributes to the conservation of landscapes,
ecosystems, species and genetic variation
Buffer Zones
It surrounds or adjoins the core area(s), and is used for activities compatible with sound
ecological practices that can reinforce scientific research, monitoring, training and education.
Transition Area
The transition area is where communities foster socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable
economic and human activities.
11. Rights which are recognised under any State law or laws of any Autonomous Dist.
Council or Autonomous Regional Council or which are accepted as rights of tribals under
any traditional or customary law of the concerned tribes of any State;
12. Right of access to biodiversity and community right to intellectual property and
traditional knowledge related to biodiversity and cultural diversity;
13. Any other traditional right customarily enjoyed by the forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes or
other traditional forest dwellers, as the case may be, which are not mentioned in clauses-
1 to 11, but excluding the traditional right of hunting or trapping extracting a part of the
body of any species of wild animal.
Art. 15(4):- Special provisions for advancement of other backward classes(which cludes STs);
Art. 29:- Protection of Interests of Minorities (which cludes STs);
Art. 46:- The State shall promote, with special care, the educational and economic interests of
the weaker sections of the people, and in particular, of the Scheduled Castes, and the
Scheduled Tribes, and shall protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation, Art.
350:- Right to conserve distinct Language, Script or Culture;
Art. 350:- Instruction in Mother Tongue.
II. Social Safeguard
Art. 23:- Prohibition of traffic in human beings and beggar and other similar form of forced labour;
Art. 24:- Forbidding Child Labour.
III. Economic Safeguards
Art.244:- Clause(1) Provisions of Fifth Schedule shall apply to the administration & control of the
Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes in any State other than the states of Assam, Meghalaya,
Mizoram and Tripura which are covered under Sixth Schedule, under Clause (2) of this Article.
Art. 275:- Grants in-Aid to specified States (STs&SAs) covered under Fifth and Sixth
Schedules of the Constitution.
IV. Political Safeguards
Art.164 (1):- Provides for Tribal Affairs Ministers in Bihar, MP and Orissa;
Art. 330:- Reservation of seats for STs in Lok Sabha;
Art. 337- Reservation of seats for STs in State Legislatures;
Art. 334:- 10 years period for reservation (Amended several times to extend the period.);
Art. 243:- Reservation of seats in Panchayats.
Art. 371:- Special provisions in respect of NE States and Sikkim
V. Service Safeguards (Under Art.16 (4), 16(4A), 164(B) Art.335 and Art. 320(40)
UNIT 7
Population-growth:
The “population growth rate” is the rate at which the number of individuals in a
population increases in a given time period as a fraction of the initial population.
Specifically, population growth rate refers to the change in population over a time
period, often expressed as a percentage of the number of individuals in the population
at the beginning of that period. This can be written as the formula:
Population growth rate=P(t2)−P(t1)P(t1)population growth rate=P(t2)−P(t1)P(t).
1. Population size: the number of individuals in the population
2. Population density: how many individuals are in a particular area
3. Population growth: how the size of the population is changing over time.
Poverty is believed to be the leading cause of overpopulation. A lack of educational
resources, coupled with high death rates leading to higher birth rates, result in
impoverished areas seeing large booms in population.
There was a decrease in per capita food availability despite an increase in
production. Poor distribution of food resulting to hunger and deaths. Shortage in
medical facilities and services. Problems with power shortage and distribution.
Overpopulation is caused by a number of factors. Reduced mortality rate, better medical
facilities, depletion of precious resources are few of the causes which result in
overpopulation. ... A direct result of this has been the increased lifespan and the growth of
the population.
These are the leading causes:
Poverty. Poverty is believed to be the leading cause of
overpopulation Poor Contraceptive Use
Child Labor
Reduced Mortality
Rates Fertility
Treatment
Immigrati
on Lack
of Water
Lower Life Expectancy.
Age and sex structure • Proportion of individuals of different ages within that population is age
structure. • Proportion of active males and females in a population influence population growth.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) definition of health emphasizes the physical,
mental and social well-being: "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social
well-being and not merely the abscence of disease or infirmity". Health is considered as
an overall concept reaching beyond the absence of illness and ailments.
Well-being and quality of life are subject to an impressive number of factors, including
psychological, social and environment-related aspects. In addition to positive
influences such as green belts and entertainment areas, it is also important to identify
the negative factors, such as noise, odour and light nuisance.
However, the relation between environment and health is extremely complex.
Although many health problems are tought to be associated with environmental
pollution, it is difficult to assess the seriousness, extent and causes of environment-
related diseases. Besides environmental-related causes, there are other factors which
can directly or indirectly lead to the same health problems.
Moreover, a causal connection between health effects and e.g. distribution of specific
substances in the environment is often hardly or not demonstrable. The specific
contribution of each of the different causes of health problems is difficult to determine
The huge population pressurizes and degrades the environment physically, chemically
and biologically. The state of health of people depends on clean environment. The
changes in human environment increases the incidence of many diseases.
Various diseases:
.1. HIV/ AIDS, TB, Malaria, Water borne diseases.
2. Climate and Health 19
3. Bhopal Gas Tragedy, Hazardous chemicals like pesticides, DDT, endosulfan etc
4. Infectious diseases
5. Water related diseases
6. Risks due to chemicals in food
7. Cancer and the environment.
Value Education:
Values deal with ones own principles and standards from which we judge what is
right and wrong behaviour.
Objectives of Value Education:
a. To improve the integral growth of human begins.
b. To create attitudes and improvement towards sustainable lifestyle.
c. To increase awareness about our national history our cultural heritage,
constitutional rights, national integration, community development and environment.
d. To create and develop awareness about the values and their significance
and role. e. To know about various living and non-living organisms and their
interaction with environment.
Environmental values-Preservation of
Environment Valuing nature-Ecologist view.
Human Rights:
Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings, whatever our nationality, place of
residence, sex, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language, or any other status. We
are all equally entitled to our human rights without discrimination. These rights are all
interrelated, interdependent and indivisible. Universal human rights are often expressed and
guaranteed by law, in the forms of treaties, customary international law , general principles
and other sources of international law. International human rights law lays down obligations
of Governments to act in certain ways or to refrain from certain acts, in order to promote
and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals or groups.
The universal declaration of human rights adopted by UNO on 10th Dec 1948.
On May 16, 1994 the United Nations drafted declaration of Human Rights and
Environment 1. The principles 2. Significance.
Equity-Wealth, resources, energy distribution.
Nutrition, Health and Human rights.
Intellectual property rights.
Rights of life liberty Fundamental Rights Include and security of a person.
Right to own property.
Right to freedom of opinion and expression.
Right to an adequate standard of living.
Right to education , freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
Right to freedom from torture and degrading treatment.
A petition was received from the National Committee for Protection of Natural Resources
(NCPNR), wherein it was mentioned that the Land Acquisition Act, 1894, which was still in force
and was proposed to be amended by the Government, did not contain any provision for
resettlement and rehabilitation of the people affected by projects. The Committee requestedthat
the Commission may consider this matter in its entirety and make suitable
recommendations to the Government, specially at a time when the Government was
considering a comprehensive Land Acquisition (Amendment) Bill, which did not deal
with aspects relating to resettlement and rehabilitation.
A full EA is required if a project is likely to have significant adverse impacts that may
be sensitive, irreversible, and diverse. The impacts are likely to be comprehensive,
broad, sector-wide, or precedent-setting. Impacts generally result from a major
component of the project and affect the area as a whole or an entire sector.
Dams and reservoirs; Forestry production
projects; Industrial plants (large-scale) and
industrial estates; Irrigation, drainage, and flood
control (large-scale); Land clearance and leveling;
ENVIRONMENTAL MOVEMENTS:
Chipko movement:
The Chipko movement or Chipko Andolan, was a forest conservation movement in
India. It began in 1973 in Uttarakhand, then a part of Uttar Pradesh and went on to
become a rallying point for many future environmental movements all over the world.
The Chipko movement was a non-violent agitation in 1973 that was aimed at
protection and conservation of trees, but, perhaps, it is best remembered for the
collective mobilisation of women for the cause of preserving forests, which also
brought about a change in attitude regarding their own status in society. The uprising
against the felling of trees and maintaining the ecological balance originated in Uttar
Pradesh’s Chamoli district (now Uttarakhand) in 1973 and in no time spilled onto other
states in north India. The name of the movement ‘chipko’ comes from the word
’embrace’, as the villagers hugged the trees and encircled them to prevent being
hacked.
Gandhian activist Sunderlal Bahuguna gave a direction to the movement and his appeal
to Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India, resulted in the ban of cutting trees.
His appeal resulted in a 15-year ban on chopping of green trees in 1980.
In modern India, Chipko Movement started in April 1973 in Uttar Pradesh's Mandal
village in the upper Alakananda valley. Soon it spread to other Himalayan districts of
the state. The Chipko Movement was triggered by a government decision to allot forest
land to a sports goods company.
The importance of chipko movement in conservation of forest helps to protect and manage the
forest, this movement therefore has awaken people to the importance of conserving trees as it
helps the ecosystem of a nation to function properly and also it aid the livelihood of
people to live healthily and have a prosperous.
The Chipko movement famous for its slogan "Ecology is permanent economy"
completes 45 years on Monday. Women were the main drivers of the movement, with
many immortal images of them hugging trees to prevent their being cut down.
The movement achieved a victory when the government issued a ban on felling of
trees in the Himalayan regions for fifteen years in 1980 by then Prime Minister Indira
Gandhi, until the green cover was fully restored.
SILENT VALLEY:
Silent Valley National Park, is a national park in Kerala, India. It is located in the
Nilgiri hills, has a core area of 89.52 km², which is surrounded by a buffer zone of 148
km². This national park has some rare species of flora and fauna.
The British named the area Silent Valley because of a perceived absence of noisy
cicadas. Another story attributes the name to the anglicisation of Sairandhri. A third
story refers to the presence of many lion-tailed macaques Macaca silenus.
Save Silent Valley was a social movement aimed at the protection of Silent
Valley, an evergreen tropical forest in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India. The
Kuntipuzha is a major river that flows 15 km southwest from Silent Valley. It takes its
origin in the lush green forests of Silent Valley.
Silent Valley National Park In Kerala: Where The Wild Roam Free. Home to animals
as rare as the Nilgiri Tahr and Lion Tailed Macaques as well as the greenest of
evergreen forests ever, the Silent Valley National Park in Kerala is among the most
favourite biodiversity hubs for nature lovers and wildlife fanatics.
The aim of the movement was to save the place from being flooded due to
Hydroelectric project. The issue further caught attention due to the endangered lion-
tailed macaque and other rare wildlife that was present in that area.
In 1970s, plans for a hydroelectric project by the state electricity board were shelved
after protests by “Save Silent Valley” movement, which highlighted the dangers to the rich
diversity. It was declared a national park in 1984, by late Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi.
The Valley harboured a range of species endemic to the region, including the
lion-tailed macaque that faced the threat of extinction. In 1980, the then prime minister
Indira Gandhi told the state government to abandon the project.
BISHNOIS RAJASTHAN:
The Bishnois, a Vaishnavite sect, living in western Rajasthan on the fringe of
the Thar desert, have for centuries, been conserving the flora and fauna to the extent
of sacrificing their lives to protect the environment. Nature protection was given
foremost importance in these tenets.
Western India. Bishnoi (also known as Vishnoi) is a Hindu religious sect found
in the Western Thar Desert and northern states of India. They follow a set of 29
principles/commandments given by Guru Jambeshwar (1451-1536). They are not a
caste but a sect.
The Bishnois of Jodhpur consider the Blackbuck to be the reincarnation of their religious Guru
Bhagwan Jambeshwar also known as Jambaji. They have been known to make many sacrifices
for the protection of animals, specially the endangered Blackbuck. They can even
sacrifice their lives to save this creature.
‘Amrita Devi’ (Beniwal) sacrificed her life along with her three daughter’s
viz. Asu, Ratni and Bhagu in year 1730 to save green trees being felled by the
Maharaja of Jodhpur at a place known as Khejarli in Marwar, Rajasthan. Along
with her more than 363 other Bishnois, died saving the Khejri trees.
The Bishnoi narrate the story of Amrita Devi, a member of the sect who inspired as
many as 363 other Bishnois to go to their deaths in protest of the cutting down of Khejri trees
on 12 September 1730. The Maharaja of Jodhpur, Abhay Singh, requiring wood for the
construction of a new palace, sent soldiers to cut trees in the village of Khejarli, which was
called Jehnad at that time. Noticing their actions, Amrita Devi hugged a tree in an attempt to
stop them. Her family then adopted the same strategy, as did other local people when the
news spread. She told the soldiers that she considered their actions to be an insult to her
faith and that she was prepared to die to save the trees. The soldiers did indeed kill her and
others until Abhay Singh was informed of what was going on and intervened to stop the
massacre.
Some of the 363 Bishnois, who were killed protecting the trees, were buried in Khejarli,
where a simple grave with four pillars was erected. Every year, in September, i.e.,
Shukla
Dashmi of Bhadrapad (Hindi month) the Bishnois assemble there to commemorate
the sacrifice made by their people to preserve their faith and religion.
Bishnois oppose to their religious tradition of cremating the dead. To avoid
wastage of firewood, they bury the deceased.
Though a religious sect, the Bishnois do not believe in unnecessary rituals, idol-
worship, caste system, etc., but continually lay emphasis on compassion, love, and
peace, thereby firming their foundation for love for Mother Nature.
To minimize the use of green trees, they use cow dung cakes as fuel for cooking.
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS:
Environmental ethics is a branch of ethics that studies the relation of human beings
and the environment and how ethics play a role in this. Environmental ethics believe that
humans are a part of society as well as other living creatures, which includes plants and
animals.
Environmental ethics helps define man's moral and ethical obligations toward
the environment. Water and air pollution, the depletion of natural resources, loss of biodiversity
destruction of ecosystems, and global climate change are all part of the
environmental ethics debate.
Environmental ethics are a key feature of environmental studies that establishes a
relationship between humans and the earth. With environmental ethics, you can
ensure that you are doing your part to keep the environment safe and protected.
Environmental ethics builds on scientific understanding by bringing human
values, moral principles, and improved decision making into conversation with science. ...
This is important because the ethics of the environment are of major concern these days .
Environmental ethics deal with issues related to the rights of individuals that are
fundamental to life and well being.
Resource consumption patterns and the need for equitable utilization: It deals
with how we utilize and distribute resources. The disparity between haves and have-
nots is widening. There is a disparity between the individuals, communities and
countries in usage of resources. The well-to-do, educated urban dweller consumes
much larger quantities of resources and energy than the traditional rural individual.
This unequal distribution of wealth and access to land and its resources is a serious
environmental concern. An equitable sharing of resources forms the basis of
sustainable development for urban, rural and wilderness-dwelling communities.
The need for gender equity: All over India, especially in the rural sector, women work
longer hours than men. They are involved in collection and sale of fuel wood, collection
of fodder, fruits, medicinal products, trekking several kilometres to fetch potable water,
cooking meals in smoky unhealthy atmosphere etc. On an average they spend 10-12
hrs a day of very hard work, every day of the year. Unfortunately, it is the men who play
a decisive role in managing the village common and their resources while women have
not been given an equal opportunity to develop and improve their status which is due to
a lower access to education and health care than that of men. This has deep
implications for the rate of utilization of natural resources and their conservation.
Preserving resources for future generations: This ethical issue must be considered
when we use resources unsustainably. If we overuse and misuse resources and energy
from fossil fuels, our future generations will find survival very difficult.
The rights of animals: The plants and animals that share the Earth with us too have a
right to live and share the Earth’s resources and living space. We have no right to push a
species that has taken millions of years to evolve towards extinction. Cruelty to animals is a
crime that must be regarded seriously and action must be taken against offenders.
The ethical basis of environment education and awareness: The most important
concern is related to creating an ethos that will support a sustainable lifestyle in
society. The Supreme Court of our country has ordered that every young individual
at school and college level be exposed to a course on environment. There are two
aspects that are closely connected with ethical issues that are related to our
environment. These are based on valuing nature as a resource and appreciating the
beauty of nature and treasuring the magnificence of the wilderness.
The conservation ethic and traditional value systems of India: During olden
days, people have always valued mountains, rivers, forests, trees and several
animals. Thus, much of nature was venerated and protected. Certain species of
trees have been protected as they are valued for their fruit or flowers. Traditions
held the animals/species as an important aspect of nature were the basis of local
life-support systems and were integral to bring about a harmonious life.
down rules forbidding the pollution of rivers, ponds and wells in Sutta-Nipata. Know
ye the grasses and the trees.
PUBLIC AWARENESS:
Public awareness of the environment is the ability to understand the
surrounding world, including understandings to all the changes occurring in the
environment, understanding of cause- and-effect relationships between the quality of
the environment and human behavior, and a sense of responsibility of preserving them.
Increasing population, Urbanization and poverty have generated pressure
on the natural resources and lead to a degradation of the environment.
Environmental pollution cannot prevented by laws alone. Public participation is
equally important with regard to environmental protection.
Environment Awareness through Mass-Media:
ADVERTISEMENTS: The electronic media can identify and bring to a halt forces
affecting the natural and even the man-made environment. It matters much how the
public mind can be mobilized to reduce pollution and promote environmental
quality.
Some practical tips can adopt:
Introduce the 4 R’s: Reduce waste, Reuse resources, Refuse things and Recycle materials
Organise tree planting days at school and tell them why trees are important to the
environment Encourage children to switch off all appliances and lights when not in
use
Ensure taps are closed properly after you have used them and use water spar