Evs notes –

Unit 5
The Wildlife (Protec on) Act, of 1972 is an environmental law in India that aims to protect the
country's wildlife and habitats. The act was enacted to:

 Control poaching, smuggling, and illegal trade in wildlife and its deriva ves
 Ensure the ecological and environmental security of the country
 Protect endangered flora and fauna
 Protect ecologically important protected areas
The act established scheduled protected plants and largely outlawed hun ng certain animal species
or harves ng them. It also prohibits the trade or commerce in wild animals, animal ar cles, and
trophies.

The Scheduled Tribes and Other Tradi onal Forest Dwellers (Recogni on of Forest Rights) Act,
2006, also known as the Forest Rights Act, is a law that recognizes the forest rights of tribal
communi es and other tradi onal forest dwellers in India:

 Purpose
The Act aims to recognize the rights of tribal communi es who have lived in forests before forest
laws were enacted. It also seeks to "undo the historical injus ce" done to tribal communi es whose
rights were not recognized when state forests were consolidated.

 Rights
The Act grants the following rights:

 The right to live in the forest for habita on or cul va on

 The right to own, collect, use, and dispose of minor forest produce
 The right to use grazing areas and pastoralist routes
 The right to protect, regenerate, or conserve forests and wildlife

The United Na ons Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), known as the 'Earth
Summit', was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 3-14 June 1992. This global conference, held on the
occasion of the 20th anniversary of the first Human Environment Conference in Stockholm, Sweden,
in 1972, brought together poli cal leaders, diplomats, scien sts, representa ves of the media, and
non-governmental organiza ons (NGOs) from 179 countries for a massive effort to focus on the impact
of human socio-economic ac vi es on the environment. A 'Global Forum' of NGOs was also held in
Rio de Janeiro at the same me, bringing together an unprecedented number of NGO representa ves,
who presented their vision of the world's future about the environment and socio-economic
development.
One of the major results of the UNCED Conference was Agenda 21, a daring program of ac on calling
for new strategies to invest in the future to achieve overall sustainable development in the 21st
century. Its recommenda ons ranged from new educa on methods to new ways of preserving
natural resources and par cipa ng in a sustainable economy.
The 'Earth Summit' had many great achievements: the Rio Declara on and its 27 universal principles,
the United Na ons Framework Conven on on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Conven on on
Biological Diversity; and the Declara on on the principles of forest management . The 'Earth Summit'
also led to the crea on of the Commission on Sustainable Development, the holding of first world
conference on the sustainable development of small island developing States in 1994.

What is the United Na ons Framework Conven on on Climate Change?

The UNFCCC entered into force on 21 March 1994. Today, it has near-universal membership. The 198
countries that have ra fied the Conven on are called Par es to the Conven on. Preven ng
“dangerous” human interference with the climate system is the ul mate aim of the UNFCCC.

First steps to a safer future: the Conven on in summary

The Conven on:

Recognized that there was a problem

Sets a lo y but specific goal.
The ul mate objec ve of the Conven on is to stabilize greenhouse gas concentra ons "at a level that
would prevent dangerous anthropogenic (human induced) interference with the climate system." It
states that "such a level should be achieved within a me-frame sufficient to allow ecosystems to adapt
naturally to climate change, to ensure that food produc on is not threatened, and to enable economic
development to proceed in a sustainable manner."

Puts the onus on developed countries to lead the way.

The idea is that, as they are the source of most past and current greenhouse gas emissions,
industrialized countries are expected to do the most to cut emissions on home ground. They are called
Annex I countries

Directs new funds to climate change ac vi es in developing countries.

Industrialized na ons agree under the Conven on to support climate change ac vi es in developing
countries by providing financial support for ac on on climate change. A system of grants and loans has
been set up through the Conven on and is managed by the Global Environment Facility. Industrialized
countries also agree to share technology with less-advanced na ons.

Keeps tabs on the problem and what's being done about it.

 Industrialized countries (Annex I) have to report regularly on their climate change policies and
measures, including issues governed by the Kyoto Protocol (for countries which have ra fied
it).
 They must also submit an annual inventory of their greenhouse gas emissions, including data
for their base year (1990)and all the years since.
Developing countries (Non-Annex I Par es) report in more general terms on their ac ons both to
address climate change and to adapt to its impacts - but less regularly than Annex I Par es do.

CHATGPT -

Wildlife Protec on Act, 1972

The Wildlife Protec on Act of 1972 was enacted to safeguard wildlife and their habitats across India.
It provides legal protec on to endangered species and prohibits hun ng, poaching, and trade of
animals and plants listed under its schedules.

 Key Features:

o Crea on of Protected Areas like Na onal Parks, Sanctuaries, and Conserva on

Reserves.

o Establishment of the Na onal Board for Wildlife for policy formula on.

o Categoriza on of species into six schedules, with Schedule I offering the highest
protec on.

o Empowerment of authori es to penalize violators.

 Significance: It has helped conserve iconic species like the Bengal ger and Asian elephant
while addressing illegal wildlife trade.

Water (Preven on and Control of Pollu on) Act, 1974

This act aims to prevent and control water pollu on and maintain water quality. It led to the
establishment of the Central and State Pollu on Control Boards (CPCB/SPCB).

 Provisions:

o Regula on of wastewater discharge into water bodies.

o Gran ng and cancella on of permits for industries.

o Penalizing en es causing pollu on.

 Impact: It has been instrumental in monitoring industrial effluents and improving water
quality in rivers and lakes, though enforcement remains inconsistent.

Forest (Conserva on) Act, 1980

This act restricts the use of forest land for non-forest purposes to prevent deforesta on.

 Key Provisions:

o Requires central government approval for forest land diversion.

o Encourages afforesta on in degraded forest areas.

  Impact: It has slowed deforesta on and promoted sustainable forest management, though
challenges persist in balancing development and conserva on.

Air (Preven on and Control of Pollu on) Act, 1981

Enacted to curb air pollu on, this act regulates emissions from industries and vehicles.

 Key Features:

o Establishment of CPCB and SPCBs to monitor air quality.

o Prohibi on of air pollutant discharge beyond prescribed limits.

o Implementa on of air pollu on control areas.

 Significance: It has improved air quality monitoring but faces challenges due to rising urban
pollu on levels.

Environment Protec on Act, 1986

The act provides a comprehensive framework for environmental protec on. It was passed a er the
Bhopal Gas Tragedy.

 Key Provisions:

o Empowerment of the central government to regulate industrial pollu on and

hazardous waste.

o Authority to shut down pollu ng establishments.

o Environmental impact assessment (EIA) for development projects.

 Impact: It has bolstered environmental governance and pollu on control mechanisms.

Scheduled Tribes and Other Tradi onal Forest Dwellers (Recogni on of Forest Rights) Act, 2006

Also known as the Forest Rights Act, this legisla on recognizes the rights of forest-dwelling
communi es over forest resources.

 Key Features:

o Grants individual and community rights to land and resources.

o Recognizes the role of indigenous people in forest conserva on.

o Provides a framework for sustainable forest management.

 Significance: It empowers tribal communi es and addresses historical injus ces, fostering
inclusive conserva on efforts.
Here are seven key differences between the Montreal Protocol and the Kyoto Protocol:

1. Purpose

 Montreal Protocol: Aims to phase out the produc on and consump on of ozone-deple ng
substances (ODS) to protect the ozone layer.

 Kyoto Protocol: Focuses on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to combat global
climate change.

2. Target Substances

 Montreal Protocol: Addresses specific ozone-deple ng substances like chlorofluorocarbons

(CFCs), halons, and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).

 Kyoto Protocol: Targets six key greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane
(CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O).

3. Adop on Year

 Montreal Protocol: Adopted in 1987.

 Kyoto Protocol: Adopted in 1997.

4. Entry into Force

 Montreal Protocol: Entered into force on January 1, 1989.

 Kyoto Protocol: Entered into force on February 16, 2005.

5. Legal Binding

 Montreal Protocol: Legally binding for all par cipa ng countries, with provisions for strict
compliance and penal es.

 Kyoto Protocol: Legally binding for developed countries listed under Annex I, but developing
countries have voluntary commitments.

6. Global Scope

 Montreal Protocol: Universally ra fied by 198 countries, making it one of the most successful
environmental agreements.

 Kyoto Protocol: Ra fied by 192 countries, but notable absences or withdrawals (e.g., the U.S.)
impacted its effec veness.

7. Primary Focus

 Montreal Protocol: Protects human health and ecosystems by restoring the ozone layer, which
shields the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radia on.

 Kyoto Protocol: Aims to mi gate global warming by reducing the concentra on of greenhouse
gases in the atmosphere.

8. Financial Mechanisms

 Montreal Protocol: Supported by the Mul lateral Fund, which helps developing countries
transi on away from ozone-deple ng substances.
  Kyoto Protocol: Introduced mechanisms like Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), Joint
Implementa on (JI), and Emissions Trading to promote cost-effec ve emissions reduc ons.

UNIT 6 –

Biodiversity refers to all forms of living organisms. It includes plants, animals and
micro-organisms from terrestrial, aqua c and marine ecosystems. They are
ubiquitous and are found in all forms of landscape. The forest ecosystems have
greater number of species than farmland, or semi-urban and urban landscapes.
Occurrence of species also varies in different ecosystem and ecological zones.
Biological organisms are natural resources for present and future they may be
directly u lized as food, medicine, shelter or for recrea onal or aesthe c
purpose. Much of the rural people rely on these biological resources for their
livelihood. The cultural, aesthe c and recrea onal value of biodiversity is
enormous which cannot be equated in terms of monetary terms. Therefore,
knowledge of biodiversity plays important role for the survival of future.
There are many plants and animals present in and around us which are playing
vital role in maintaining nutrient and hydrological cycle, or providing various
ecosystem services for maintaining food chain.

The environmental values of biodiversity can be evaluated by analyzing the

func ons of the ecosystem. Ecosystem services, such as intensive agricultural
produc on ecosystems, help in maintaining human needs and ac vi es. These
include the establishment and maintenance of fer le soil, reten on of fresh
groundwater resources through vegeta on and the output of oxygen by ground
plants and microalgae.
2. Economic Value: Biodiversity has a tremendous economic perspec ve on
food, livestock feed, medica ve, ethical, and social ideals. Biodiversity is an
important resource for many industry sectors that regulate the world economy.
3. Consump ve use value: This refers to natural products that are used for food,
such as livestock feed, wood products, fuelwood, and other purposes. Humans
consume 40,000 flora and fauna species daily. Many people remain dependent
on wildlife for the majority of their necessi es, such as nutri on, temporary
housing, and clothing.
4. Produc ve Use Value: This implies products that are sourced and
commercially marketed. Almost all of the crops grown today have evolved from
wild varie es.
5.Aesthe c Value: The beauty of our planet is due to biodiversity. Otherwise, it
would have looked like any other deserted planet, which is sca ered throughout
the universe. Biological diversity enhances the quality of life and contributes
significantly to some of nature’s most beau ful aspects. Biodiversity makes a
significant contribu on to the gorgeousness of the landscape.
. The variety of organisms that exist on the earth is referred to as biological
diversity. They are interconnected, as well as create an impact on each other.
Biodiversity includes a wide range of plants, animals, and microorganisms. In
layman’s terms, biodiversity corresponds to the quan ty and wide range of
lifeforms found in a given geographic area

SACRED GROOVES-
Sacred groves are forests conserved in the name of God and are considered to
be sacred. In fact, these are preserved by society and not by the government.
Sacred groves have a special kind of shielding; that is, in these forests or groves,
hun ng animals and cu ng down trees is not allowed. These groves are spread
throughout the country . According to a government report, India has more than
14000 sacred groves. Sacred groves are considered the most remarkable worship
of nature. Generally, they are the areas in forests, grasslands and water bodies
that are preserved by society as they believe that these are the places of Gods
and Goddesses.
There are many sacred groves found in India; some of them are in Western Ghats
(Karnataka), Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Meghalaya and Madhya Pradesh. Many
indigenous species of plants and animals are present, which the sacred groves
help preserve. A significant number of sacred groves come under tribal land, so
the government cannot touch them. Deforesta on is also banned in these sacred
groves. Some of the examples of sacred groves in India are as follows:
 Khasi and Jain a Hills (Meghalaya)
 Aravali Hills (Rajasthan)
 Western Ghats (Karnataka)
 Western Ghats (Maharashtra)
 Chanda and Bastar ( Madhya Pradesh)
Tribals have extensive areas of sacred groves under them, whose scales range from square
metres to hectares. As people believe that sacred groves are the place of God or Goddess, they
cannot tolerate any disturbance in the area because, according to them, any type of interac on
can make their God angry, leading to natural calami es or damage of crops. Hun ng animals and
cu ng down trees are also not allowed in these groves; in some areas, people are even banned
from touching fallen fruits. Governments are not allowed to interfere in these groves, but they
provide a legal act – Wildlife (Protec on) Amendment Act 2002 – which also helps preserve
these sacred groves.

It is believed that the presence of sacred groves dates to the early 1800s. People believed that
trees were the place of God or that they had spirits, so they protected them. Gradually, it
became a ritual among the tribals that if they hunt or cut trees in these areas, God will become
angry and it will lead to disaster or cause diseases or damage crops.

Today, sacred groves are important for biodiversity, which is why the government helps tribals
protect them instead of destroying them. Na ve plants which have great medicinal value are also
present in sacred groves. In some sacred groves, water bodies are preserved, which is helpful for
the nearby areas or villages, as they provide water for drinking or irriga on purposes.

The sacred groves of India are connected to almost 40,000 groups of Hindus, Buddhists and
Muslims. Many annual programs are performed by villagers for the welfare of their sacred
groves. By performing these annual ceremonies, they pray for good crops, good health or the
birth of a child.

Himachal Pradesh has the largest number of sacred groves, that is 5000, Kerala has 2000,
Maharashtra has 1600, Karnataka has 1424, Andhra Pradesh has 750 and West Bengal has 670.

As me passed, many changes or evolu on occurred, and for human comfort, many dams and
roads were built, which destroyed mul ple sacred groves. Due to this evolu on, some of the
areas of sacred groves were reduced.

In some sacred groves, non-na ve weeds began growing, which are harmful to people. Some
tribes converted their natural form of worship into small temples.

Significance of Sacred Groves

Because of these sacred groves, many indigenous or endangered species of plants and animals
have been preserved.

These groves help villagers get water for drinking and irriga on purposes. Many plants which
have medicinal value are present in these areas, and natural medicine is provided by groves.
Areas of sacred groves have excellent soil fer lity.

Conclusion

Uninterrupted marks of the forest, grassland, and water bodies protected by locals who believe
that these are places of God are called sacred groves. The size of the groves vary between 5
hectares and 500 hectares, and they are the perfect example of in-situ conserva on. The
existence of sacred groves depends on the tribals – how they preserve or how long they preserve
the groves.

THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY –

Climate change, pollu on, habitat loss, overexploita on of species

and invasive species have been iden fied as the five major threats
to biodiversity. Increasing food produc on is a major agent for the
conversion of natural habitat into agricultural land.
Around half of the world's original forests have disappeared, and
they are s ll being removed at a rate 10x higher than any possible
level of regrowth.
Human impact on terrestrial and marine natural resources results
in marine and coastal degrada on. Popula on growth,
urbaniza on, industrializa on and tourism are all factors.

Major Kinds of Habitat Loss

Habitat destruc on: A bulldozer pushing down trees is the iconic image of
habitat destruc on. Other ways people directly destroy habitat include
filling in wetlands, dredging rivers, mowing fields, and cu ng down trees.
Habitat fragmenta on: Much of the remaining terrestrial wildlife habitat in
the U.S. has been cut up into fragments by roads and development. Aqua c
species’ habitats have been fragmented by dams and water diversions.
These fragments of habitat may not be large or connected enough to
support species that need a large territory where they can find mates and
food. The loss and fragmenta on of habitats makes it difficult for migratory
species to find places to rest and feed along their migra on routes.
Habitat degrada on: Pollu on, invasive species, and disrup on of
ecosystem processes (such as changing the intensity of fires in an
ecosystem) are some of the ways habitats can become so degraded, they no
longer support na ve wildlife.
Main Causes of Habitat Loss
Agriculture: Much of the habitat loss from agriculture was done long ago
when se lers converted forests and prairies to cropland. Today, there is
increasing pressure to redevelop conserva on lands for high-priced food
and biofuel crops.
Land conversion for development: The conversion of lands that once
provided wildlife habitat to housing developments, roads, office parks, strip
malls, parking lots and industrial sites con nues, even during the current
economic crisis.
Water development: Dams and other water diversions siphon off and
disconnect waters, changing hydrology and water chemistry (when
nutrients are not able to flow downstream).
Pollu on: Freshwater wildlife are most impacted by pollu on. Pollutants
such as untreated sewage, mining waste, acid rain, fer lizers and pes cides
concentrate in rivers, lakes and wetlands and eventually end up in estuaries
and the food web.

Poaching is a major existen al threat to numerous wild organisms

worldwide and is an important contributor to biodiversity loss.
Some examples of illegal wildlife trade are well known, such as the poaching
of elephants for ivory and gers for their skins and bones.
Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) is when animals threaten the safety or
livelihood of people, leading to the persecu on of the species. This can
happen when human popula ons overlap with wildlife territory, reducing
resources. HWC can have nega ve consequences for both humans and
wildlife, including:
 Loss of life
Humans and wildlife can be killed. For example, in Nepal, bears that live
near human se lements may a ack humans or kill domes c animals,
leading to people killing the bears in retalia on.
 Loss of crops
Wildlife can damage crops, especially near protected areas. This can cause
economic losses that make it difficult to protect wildlife.
 Habitat destruc on
Human ac vi es like hun ng and habitat loss can threaten wildlife.
 Psychological distress
Frequent encounters with wildlife, especially when they result in loss, can
cause psychological distress for affected people.
 Disrupted livelihoods
HWC can disrupt tradi onal livelihoods, especially for communi es that
depend on agriculture, fishing, or pastoralism. For example, farmers who
depend on both herbivores and carnivores may need to take extreme
measures to prevent wildlife loss.

In the last 500 million years, five great mass ex nc on events have changed
the face of life on Earth. We know what caused some of them, but others
remain a mystery.
1. The Ordovician-Silurian mass ex nc on occurred 443 million years ago
and wiped out approximately 85% of all species. Scien sts think it was
caused by temperatures plumme ng and huge glaciers forming, which
caused sea levels to drop drama cally. This was followed by a period of
rapid warming. Many small marine species died out.
The Devonian mass ex nc on event took place 374 million years ago and
killed about three-quarters of the world's species, most of which were
marine invertebrates that lived at the bo om of the sea. This was a period
 of many environmental changes, including global warming and cooling, a
rise and fall of sea levels and a reduc on in oxygen and carbon dioxide in
the atmosphere.
2. The Permian mass ex nc on, which happened 250 million years ago, was the largest and most
devasta ng event of the five. The Permian-Triassic ex nc on event is also known as the Great
Dying. It eradicated more than 95% of all species, including most of the vertebrates which had
begun to evolve by this me. Some scien sts think Earth was hit by a large asteroid which filled
the air with dust par cles that blocked out the Sun and caused acid rain. Others think there
was a large volcanic explosion which increased carbon dioxide and made the oceans toxic.
The Triassic mass ex nc on event occurred 200 million years ago, elimina ng about 80% of
Earth's species, including many types of dinosaurs. This was probably caused by colossal
geological ac vity that increased carbon dioxide levels and global temperatures, as well as ocean
acidifica on.

3. The Cretaceous mass ex nc on event occurred 66 million years ago, killing 78% of all species,
including the remaining non-avian dinosaurs. This was most likely caused by an asteroid
hi ng the Earth.
4. We are experiencing drastic changes to our planet,
including extreme weather such as flooding, drought and wildfires.

5. Research, including some led by the Museum, shows humans are

the cause of these changes. Since the Industrial Revolution, we have
been putting pressure on nature by using its resources without
supporting recovery. . Humans have already transformed over 70%
of land surfaces and are using about three-quarters of freshwater
resources.

Agriculture is also a leading cause of soil degradation, deforestation,

pollution and biodiversity loss.

Ongoing Sixth Mass Ex nc on and Impact:

1. Sixth Mass Ex nc on:

1. Some researchers have pointed out that we are currently experiencing a sixth mass
ex nc on as the result of human-induced climate change (referred to as
the Anthropocene ex nc on).

1. Currently, only an es mated 2% of all of the species that ever lived

are alive but the absolute number of species is greater than ever
before.
2. It is described as the most serious environmental problem since the loss
of species will be permanent.
CHATGPT –

Biodiversity Hotspots in India

India houses 4 of the 36 global biodiversity hotspots:
1. Himalayas
2. Indo-Burma
3. Sundaland (Nicobar Islands)
4. Western Ghats
These regions are extremely rich in endemic species but are under significant threat from
deforesta on, habitat loss, and climate change.
Endemic and Endangered Species of India
1. Endemic Species: Found only in India, e.g.:
o Nilgiri Tahr
o Lion-tailed Macaque
o Andaman Teal
o Malabar Civet
2. Endangered Species: Listed under the IUCN Red List due to declining popula ons, e.g.:
o Bengal Tiger
o Asia c Lion
o Indian Pangolin
o Ganges River Dolphin

The Silent Valley Movement (1973–1983)

The Silent Valley Movement is one of India’s most iconic environmental campaigns, illustra ng the
power of grassroots ac vism in conserving biodiversity. Located in the Palakkad district of Kerala,
Silent Valley is a pris ne tropical rainforest and part of the Western Ghats, one of the world's eight
"ho est hotspots" of biological diversity. The movement was ini ated to oppose a hydroelectric dam
project proposed by the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) in the Kunthipuzha River, which
threatened the unique ecosystem of the valley.
Silent Valley was home to rare flora and fauna, including the endangered Lion-tailed Macaque, which
became a symbol of the movement. The valley also harbored diverse ecosystems, ac ng as a vital
carbon sink and a source of freshwater. The Silent Valley Movement began in the early 1970s when
the Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad (KSSP), a people’s science movement, raised awareness about the
ecological consequences of the project. Over me, the movement gained momentum, involving
environmentalists, scien sts, and the general public.
The escala ng public pressure prompted the Indian government to act. In 1980, then-Prime Minister
Indira Gandhi intervened and ordered a review of the project. A er prolonged delibera ons, the
government officially abandoned the dam project in 1983. Subsequently, the Silent Valley was
declared a na onal park in 1984, ensuring long-term protec on of its biodiversity.
Biodiversity Conserva on: Silent Valley Na onal Park today protects species like the Lion-tailed
Macaque, Malabar Giant Squirrel, and Nilgiri Langur, among others.
Here are six key differences between in situ and ex situ conserva on:
1. Defini on:
o In situ conserva on refers to the conserva on of species in their natural habitat or
ecosystem.
o Ex situ conserva on involves the preserva on of species outside their natural
habitats, such as in zoos, botanical gardens, or seed banks.
2. Loca on:
o In situ takes place within the natural environment of the species, ensuring the
species lives in its natural ecological context.
 o Ex situ takes place in controlled environments, like ar ficial breeding facili es or
conservatories.
3. Ecological Rela onships:
o In situ allows species to maintain their natural ecological rela onships and
interac ons with other species, including food webs and pollinators.
o Ex situ can lack these interac ons, as the species are removed from their natural
ecosystem.
4. Cost and Effort:
o In situ conserva on is generally less expensive, as it focuses on protec ng natural
habitats and ecosystems without the need for reloca ng species.
o Ex situ conserva on can be more costly due to the need for specialized facili es,
care, and management for species outside their natural habitat.
5. Long-Term Viability:
o In situ conserva on supports long-term survival by maintaining the species in its
natural habitat, allowing for self-sustaining popula ons.
o Ex situ may offer a short-term solu on for endangered species but may struggle with
long-term viability without reintroducing species to their natural environments.

UNIT – 7

Carbon footprint
A carbon footprint is a measure of the amount of greenhouse gases that a
person, product, company, or country adds to the atmosphere. Popula on
growth can increase the amount of greenhouse gases emi ed through the
burning of fossil fuels for energy and transporta on and through land use.
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) produced by
human ac vi es, including:
 Carbon dioxide (CO2)
 Methane (CH4)
 Nitrogen oxide (N2O)
 Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
  Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
 Sulphur hexafluoride (SF)
Carbon footprints are calculated by adding up the emissions from all stages of a
product or service's life, including material produc on, manufacturing, use, and
end-of-life.
Carbon footprints are measured in tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e)
Here are some examples of carbon footprints:
 The average carbon footprint for a person in the United States is 16 tons.
 Understanding your carbon footprint can help you: Identify and reduce GHG
emissions, Raise awareness of environmental costs, Manage your environment and
energy, and Reduce your carbon footprint through responsible consumption.

Rese lement and rehabilita on (R&R) is a process that helps people who are displaced by a project to
recover their socio-economic status. R&R includes:

 Rese lement: The physical reloca on of people to a new place

 Rehabilita on: The process of restoring the lost livelihood of the people, including rebuilding
their community systems and addressing psychological trauma

Environmental jus ce is a social movement that aims to ensure that everyone

has a fair chance to live a healthy life. It focuses on ensuring that all people are
treated fairly and meaningfully involved in decisions that affect the environment
and human health.
Environmental jus ce addresses issues such as:
 Exposure to hazards: Poor and marginalized communi es are o en
dispropor onately exposed to environmental hazards, which can lead to
adverse health effects.
 Access to ameni es: Some communi es have unequal access to
environmental ameni es.
 Decision-making: All communi es should be represented in decision-
making processes.
Legal recourse: Affected communi es may not have meaningful legal recourse.
Environmental philosophy is a field of study that examines the ethical and
philosophical ques ons that arise from human interac ons with the
environment. It seeks to understand the value of nature and how to ensure the
well-being of the environment and future genera ons.
Environmental philosophy explores a range of topics, including:
 Human role in nature: How humans interact with the environment, and
how this affects both humans and the environment
 Environmental value: The value of nature, and how humans should value
different environmental experiences
 Conserva on ethics: How to balance environmental preserva on with
human ethical obliga ons
 Animal rights: The rights of animals and ecosystems
 Sustainable development: How to ensure sustainable development and
the well-being of future genera ons
Environmental ethics is a branch of philosophy that studies the moral
rela onship between humans and the environment. It examines:
 The conceptual founda ons of environmental values
 Societal a tudes, ac ons, and policies to protect the environment
 Ethical ques ons raised by human rela ons with the nonhuman
environment
 Whether humans have moral obliga ons towards the environment

CHATGPT
The rapid growth of the human popula on has become a cri cal issue, with far-
reaching consequences for the environment, human health, and welfare. Over
the past century, advancements in medicine, agriculture, and technology have
drama cally reduced mortality rates, leading to an exponen al increase in global
popula on. While this growth has brought economic development and
technological progress, it has also placed immense pressure on natural resources
and ecosystems. A key aspect of these impacts is the increasing carbon footprint,
which exacerbates global climate change.
Impacts on Human Welfare
1. Economic Inequality Popula on growth o en exacerbates socio-
economic dispari es:
o Limited resources are unevenly distributed, leading to wealth
concentra on in certain groups.
o High unemployment rates and underemployment in densely
populated areas.
The Role of Carbon Footprint
1. Defini on and Scope The carbon footprint measures the total GHG
emissions associated with an individual, community, or organiza on's
ac vi es. It encompasses emissions from:
o Energy use (electricity, hea ng, transporta on).
o Food produc on and consump on.
o Manufacturing and waste management.
2. Popula on Growth and Carbon Footprint As the global popula on
increases, so does the cumula ve carbon footprint:
o Higher energy consump on in households, industries, and
transporta on sectors.
o Increased agricultural ac vi es to feed larger popula ons,
contribu ng to methane emissions from livestock and nitrous oxide
emissions from fer lizers.
o Greater demand for manufactured goods, leading to higher
industrial emissions.
3. Impacts on Climate Change A rising carbon footprint exacerbates climate
change through:
o Enhanced greenhouse effect, leading to global warming.
o Disrup on of climate pa erns, affec ng agriculture, water
resources, and ecosystems.
 4. Regional Varia ons Carbon footprint per capita varies significantly across
regions:
o Developed countries typically have higher per capita emissions due
to industrializa on and consump on pa erns.
o Developing countries, despite lower per capita emissions,
contribute significantly to global emissions due to large
popula ons.

Three Gorges Dam Project (China)

 Overview: The Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydropower
project, displaced approximately 1.3 million people in China.
 R&R Approach:
o The Chinese government provided compensa on packages,
including new housing, cash payments, and job training programs.
o Urban rese lement plans integrated displaced persons into nearby
towns and ci es.
 Challenges:
o Poor living condi ons in some rese lement areas.
o Loss of agricultural livelihoods and insufficient job opportuni es.
o Social tensions between relocated communi es and host
popula ons.
 Outcome: While the project achieved its developmental goals, many
displaced individuals reported decreased quality of life, underscoring the
need for comprehensive R&R strategies.

Bishnois ac vely oppose ac vi es that harm the environment, such as illegal

tree felling and hun ng.
Tehri Dam Movement
 A campaign against the construc on of the Tehri Dam in U arakhand,
which posed risks of submergence, displacement, and seismic
vulnerability.
 Led by environmentalist Sunderlal Bahuguna, the movement highlighted
the dangers of large-scale infrastructure projects in fragile ecosystems.

Environmental Jus ce and the Role of the Na onal Green Tribunal

Introduc on
Environmental jus ce is a cri cal concept that ensures fair treatment and
meaningful involvement of all individuals in environmental governance,
regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or geographical loca on. In
India, rapid industrializa on, urbaniza on, and popula on growth have resulted
in environmental degrada on, dispropor onately affec ng marginalized
communi es. To address these challenges, India established the Na onal Green
Tribunal (NGT) in 2010 as a dedicated judicial body for environmental protec on
and jus ce.
Environmental jus ce ensures equitable distribu on of environmental benefits
and burdens. It aims to prevent marginalized communi es from bearing the
dispropor onate nega ve impacts of pollu on, deforesta on, and industrial
ac vi es.
Key Principles
1. Fair Treatment: No group should bear an unfair share of environmental
risks or lack access to environmental benefits.
2. Meaningful Par cipa on: All individuals must have a voice in
environmental decision-making.
3. Sustainability: Environmental governance should balance ecological
preserva on with developmental needs.
4. Accountability: Ins tu ons must be held responsible for environmental
damage and compliance with legal frameworks.
Challenges in Achieving Environmental Jus ce in India
 Industrial pollu on and weak enforcement of environmental laws.
 Displacement of vulnerable communi es due to development projects.
 Lack of access to legal resources and awareness among affected
popula ons.
 Bureaucra c delays in addressing environmental grievances.

The NGT was established under the Na onal Green Tribunal Act, 2010, in
response to increasing environmental challenges and the need for a specialized
judicial body to handle environmental cases efficiently.
Objec ves
 Provide effec ve and expedi ous disposal of environmental disputes.
 Reduce the burden on tradi onal courts by handling environmental
li ga on exclusively.
 Promote sustainable development by ensuring compliance with
environmental laws.
 Empower affected individuals and communi es to seek jus ce without
excessive procedural complexi es.
Structure and Composi on
 The NGT consists of judicial and expert members, combining legal and
scien fic exper se.
 It is headed by a Chairperson, who is a re red judge of the Supreme Court
or High Court.
 Expert members include environmental scien sts, engineers, and other
specialists in environmental governance
Jurisdic on
1. Original Jurisdic on: The NGT can hear cases related to substan al
environmental harm or viola ons of environmental laws.
2. Appellate Jurisdic on: It can review decisions made by regulatory bodies
such as the Pollu on Control Boards.
 3. Advisory Jurisdic on: The NGT provides recommenda ons to the
government on environmental policies and regula ons.
Powers
 Issue orders to prevent, mi gate, or remedy environmental damage.
 Impose penal es and fines on violators of environmental laws.
 Direct government authori es to take specific ac ons for environmental
conserva on.

Importance of the NGT in Promo ng Environmental Jus ce

1. Specialized Exper se
o The NGT's composi on of judicial and expert members ensures
that decisions are informed by both legal and scien fic
perspec ves.
o This exper se enables the tribunal to address complex
environmental issues effec vely.
2. Expedited Jus ce
o Tradi onal courts o en face delays due to overburdened dockets.
The NGT, as a dedicated body, resolves environmental cases more
swi ly.
o Timely interven ons prevent prolonged environmental
degrada on and provide quicker relief to affected communi es.
3. Accessibility and Affordability
o The NGT simplifies procedural requirements, making it accessible
to ordinary ci zens and grassroots organiza ons.
o It reduces li ga on costs, empowering marginalized communi es
to seek jus ce.
4. Enforcement of Environmental Laws
o The NGT ensures strict compliance with exis ng environmental
laws and regula ons.
 o It holds industries, governments, and individuals accountable for
environmental viola ons.
5. Protec on of Marginalized Communi es
o By addressing cases of pollu on, deforesta on, and displacement,
the NGT protects the rights of vulnerable popula ons who o en
bear the brunt of environmental harm.
6. Sustainable Development
o The NGT promotes the integra on of environmental
considera ons into developmental planning, ensuring long-term
ecological balance.
Art of Living Founda on Case (2016)
 Issue: Environmental damage caused by the World Culture Fes val on
the Yamuna floodplains.
 NGT's Ruling: Imposed a fine of ₹5 crore on the organizers for
environmental restora on.
 Significance: Highlighted the importance of balancing cultural events
with ecological preserva on.

Environmental Philosophy: Ethics, Religion, and Culture in Conserva on

Introduc on
Environmental philosophy is an interdisciplinary field that examines humanity's
rela onship with the natural world, focusing on ethical, cultural, and
philosophical perspec ves. It seeks to answer cri cal ques ons about the
moral obliga ons humans have toward nature and how these obliga ons can
guide environmental conserva on efforts. A vital component of environmental
philosophy is environmental ethics, which provides a moral framework for
addressing ecological challenges. Addi onally, religions and cultural prac ces
play a significant role in shaping a tudes toward the environment and
fostering conserva on.
1. Environmental Ethics: The Moral Founda on of Conserva on
Environmental ethics explores the moral rela onships between humans and
the environment, challenging anthropocentric worldviews that priori ze
human needs over ecological health.
Key Philosophical Perspec ves
1. Anthropocentrism
o Views humans as the central and most significant en es in the
universe.
o Values nature primarily for its u lity to humans.
o O en cri cized for contribu ng to environmental degrada on.
2. Biocentrism
o Asserts that all living beings have intrinsic value, independent of
their u lity to humans.
o Advocates for the rights of plants, animals, and ecosystems.
3. Ecocentrism
o Emphasizes the interconnectedness of all elements in the
ecosystem.
o Argues that ecosystems and non-living components like rivers and
mountains also deserve ethical considera on.
Principles of Environmental Ethics
 Intrinsic Value: Recognizing the inherent worth of all elements of nature.
 Stewardship: Viewing humans as caretakers of the Earth with a
responsibility to preserve it for future genera ons.
 Sustainability: Ensuring that natural resources are used in a way that
does not compromise ecological balance.
 Jus ce: Addressing the dispropor onate environmental burdens faced
by marginalized communi es.

2. Role of Religions in Environmental Conserva on

Religious teachings and philosophies o en provide moral and spiritual
frameworks that encourage respect for nature and sustainable living.
Hinduism
 Hinduism emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life forms,
encapsulated in the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is
one family).
 Sacred texts like the Vedas and Upanishads praise the divinity of natural
elements like rivers, forests, and mountains.
 Prac ces such as worshiping rivers (e.g., Ganga and Yamuna), sacred
groves (devara kaadu), and animals (e.g., cows and serpents) promote
biodiversity conserva on.
 Fes vals like Van Mahotsav and rituals involving tree plan ng reinforce
ecological values.
Buddhism
 Buddhism advocates for compassion toward all living beings, a principle
rooted in Ahimsa (non-violence).
 Monasteries o en preserve forested areas, serving as biodiversity
sanctuaries.
 The "Tree Ordina on" ceremony in countries like Thailand and Bhutan
symbolizes the sacredness of trees.
Islam
 Islamic teachings emphasize environmental stewardship (khalifa),
viewing humans as trustees of the Earth.
 The Quran advocates modera on (wasa yyah) and prohibits
wastefulness (israf).
 Prophe c tradi ons encourage plan ng trees, protec ng water sources,
and caring for animals.
 Islamic prac ces like waqf (endowments) have historically been used to
conserve forests and water bodies.
Chris anity
  The Bible underscores stewardship of the Earth, as seen in Genesis,
where humans are tasked with caring for crea on.
 The concept of crea on care promotes sustainable living and
environmental responsibility.
 Chris an organiza ons ac vely par cipate in reforesta on, conserva on,
and climate ac on ini a ves.
Jainism
 Jain philosophy places a strong emphasis on non-violence (Ahimsa) and
minimal consump on to reduce harm to the environment.
 Prac ces like vegetarianism and strict codes against harming even the
smallest organisms reflect ecological mindfulness.
 Jain monks and followers adopt sustainable lifestyles, avoiding ac vi es
that cause ecological harm.
Indigenous Religions
 Indigenous belief systems o en view nature as sacred and inseparable
from spiritual life.
 Prac ces like the worship of sacred groves, mountains, and rivers
reinforce biodiversity conserva on.
 Communi es like the Bishnois of Rajasthan embody environmental
ethics through daily prac ces like protec ng wildlife and trees.

3. Cultural Prac ces and Their Contribu ons to Conserva on

Tradi onal cultural prac ces, o en rooted in indigenous knowledge systems,
offer valuable insights into sustainable living and environmental stewardship.
Sacred Groves
 Sacred groves are patches of forests preserved for religious and cultural
reasons, o en considered the abode of dei es.
Fes vals and Rituals
  Fes vals like Holi (celebra ng the end of winter and agricultural
harvests) and Onam (linked to the rice harvest in Kerala) o en involve
rituals that honor nature.

5. Harmonizing Religion, Culture, and Modern Conserva on Efforts

1. Promo ng Eco-Friendly Prac ces
o Encourage the use of biodegradable materials during religious
fes vals and rituals.
o Advocate for sustainable tourism around sacred sites and cultural
heritage areas.
2. Integra ng Indigenous Knowledge
o Document and incorporate tradi onal ecological knowledge into
modern conserva on strategies.
o Support community-led ini a ves that align with cultural prac ces
and environmental goals.

Environmental Communica on and Public Awareness: Case Studies

Introduc on
Environmental communica on is the process of sharing informa on and
fostering awareness about environmental issues to inspire informed decision-
making and ac on. It is crucial for crea ng a collec ve sense of responsibility
among individuals, communi es, and governments to protect the environment.
In India, public awareness campaigns and ini a ves have played a pivotal role
in addressing challenges like air pollu on, waste management, and
conserva on.

1. Role of Environmental Communica on in Public Awareness

  Environmental communica on involves dissemina ng knowledge about
environmental issues, policies, and sustainable prac ces through various
media and pla orms.
 It aims to:
o Educate the public about environmental challenges.
o Encourage behavioral change to promote sustainability.
o Foster community par cipa on in conserva on efforts.
o Advocate for policy reforms and accountability.
Tools and Methods
1. Mass Media: Television, radio, newspapers, and digital pla orms.
2. Community Engagement: Workshops, rallies, and grassroots campaigns.
3. Educa onal Ini a ves: Eco-clubs, school programs, and curriculum
integra on.
4. Policy Advocacy: Public consulta ons, environmental impact
assessments, and stakeholder engagement.

3. Case Study 2: Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission)

Background
 Launched in 2014, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan aimed to eliminate open
defeca on, improve waste management, and enhance overall
cleanliness.
 It sought to transform sanita on infrastructure and ins ll behavioral
change among ci zens.
Impact
 Over 100 million toilets constructed, significantly reducing open
defeca on.
 Improved waste management prac ces in urban and rural areas.
 Enhanced public consciousness about cleanliness and hygiene.
4. Case Study 3: Na onal Environment Awareness Campaign (NEAC)
Background
 Launched in 1986 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate
Change (MoEFCC), NEAC aimed to create awareness about
environmental issues among diverse stakeholder groups.
Objec ves
 Promote conserva on of natural resources.
 Encourage community-led environmental ac ons.
 Foster partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, schools, and
businesses.
Key Ac vi es
1. Themes: Annual themes focused on pressing issues like water
conserva on, biodiversity, climate change, and pollu on control.
2. Workshops and Seminars: Organized at local, regional, and na onal
levels to engage communi es in dialogue and ac on.
3. Awareness Materials: Development of posters, pamphlets, and videos in
mul ple languages to reach diverse audiences.
4. Grassroots Campaigns: Village-level programs involving farmers,
women’s groups, and students.

5. Case Study 4: Na onal Green Corps (NGC) Eco-Club Programme

Background
 Launched in 2001 by the MoEFCC, the NGC Eco-Club Programme aimed
to foster environmental awareness among school students.
 It sought to empower children as ambassadors of sustainability within
their communi es.
Objec ves
 Ins ll environmental values in students through experien al learning.
  Encourage students to lead conserva on efforts in their schools and
neighborhoods.
 Develop a network of eco-clubs to promote environmental educa on at
the grassroots level.
Key Ac vi es
1. Forma on of Eco-Clubs:
o Schools across the country formed eco-clubs, guided by teachers
and supported by government grants.
2. Hands-On Projects:
o Ac vi es included tree plan ng, waste segrega on, water
conserva on, and energy audits.
3. Compe ons and Campaigns:
o Students par cipated in debates, poster-making contests, and
awareness rallies on environmental themes.
4. Training Programs:
o Teachers and students received training in environmental
educa on and sustainable prac ces.
Role of Communica on
 Eco-clubs used local resources to create region-specific solu ons and
awareness campaigns.
 Collabora on with NGOs and environmental organiza ons provided
addi onal resources and exper se.
 Students acted as peer educators, spreading awareness within their
families and communi es.
Impact
 Over 100,000 schools enrolled, crea ng a vast network of young
environmentalists.
 Enhanced environmental literacy and ac on among children.
 Long-term behavioral changes in communi es influenced by student-led
ini a ves.
Bhopal Gas Tragedy: An Environmental Perspec ve
The Bhopal Gas Tragedy, on December 2-3, 1984, is one of history's worst
industrial disasters, caused by the release of toxic methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas
from Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL). While the human toll was immense,
the environmental consequences were equally devasta ng.
Environmental Causes
1. Neglect of Safety Protocols: Non-func onal safety systems, poor
maintenance, and a lack of emergency preparedness heightened risks.
2. Improper Storage Prac ces: Unsafe storage of large MIC quan es and
inadequate monitoring systems.
3. Proximity to Residen al Areas: The plant’s loca on near populated
areas ignored environmental safeguards.
4. Regulatory Lapses: Weak environmental oversight allowed hazardous
opera ons without sufficient safety measures.
Immediate Environmental Impacts
 Air Pollu on: The toxic cloud caused immediate damage to human,
animal, and plant life.
 Soil Contamina on: Chemical seepage rendered land infer le and
unusable for agriculture.
 Water Pollu on: Groundwater was contaminated, posing long-term
health risks.
 Biodiversity Loss: Wildlife and vegeta on were devastated, disrup ng
local ecosystems.
Long-Term Environmental Consequences
1. Persistent Pollu on:
o Decades a er the tragedy, hazardous waste and chemical residues
remained on-site due to inadequate cleanup efforts.
o Soil and groundwater con nued to show high levels of
contamina on, causing chronic health issues in the region.
2. Degraded Ecosystem:
 o Loss of biodiversity, reduced agricultural produc vity, and
diminished groundwater quality had severe environmental and
economic repercussions.
3. Inadequate Remedia on:
o Despite legal ba les and public outcry, the site was not effec vely
cleaned, leaving a legacy of environmental degrada on.