HYPERLOOP 2019 Environment -...

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HYPERLOOP 2019

Environment CONSOLIDATED CURRENT AFFAIRS FOR ESE 2019

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Environment Hyperloop 2019

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Contents 1. POLLUTION AND DEGRADATION ........................................................................................................................................ 6

1.1 Pollution Control .......................................................................................................................................................... 6

1.1.2 Ban on petcoke as a fuel ....................................................................................................................................... 6

1.1.2 Atal Bhujal Yojana ................................................................................................................................................. 6

1.1.3 Tracking groundwater pollutants in real-time ..................................................................................................... 6

1.1.4 Microplastics in Drinking Water ........................................................................................................................... 7

1.1.5 Severe uranium contamination in India’s groundwater ...................................................................................... 7

1.1.6 National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) ................................................................................................................ 7

1.1.7 Nitrogen emissions going up ................................................................................................................................. 7

1.1.8 Maharashtra tops in air toxicity ........................................................................................................................... 8

1.1.9 The cost of pollution ............................................................................................................................................. 8

1.1.10 System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting– SAFAR .................................................................................. 8

1.1.11 AQI ....................................................................................................................................................................... 9

1.1.12 Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) ................................................................. 9

1.1.13 WAYU- Air Pollution Mitigation Device ............................................................................................................ 10

1.1.14 Ozone Layer Status ............................................................................................................................................ 10

1.1.15 Clean Ganga Mission ......................................................................................................................................... 11

1.1.16 E-Flow for Ganga ............................................................................................................................................... 11

1.1.17 Draft Ganga clean-up law ................................................................................................................................. 12

1.1.18 Clean Air India Initiative .................................................................................................................................... 12

1.1.19 India’s to phase out single-use plastics by 2022 .............................................................................................. 12

1.1.20 Black plastics ..................................................................................................................................................... 12

1.1.21 Malnutrition in trees due to pollution ............................................................................................................. 13

1.1.22 SC Judgement on Crackers ................................................................................................................................ 13

1.2 Waste Management ................................................................................................................................................... 13

1.2.1 Local Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse (LOTUSHR) project ......................................... 13

1.2.2 Low viscosity fuel oil from plastic waste ............................................................................................................ 14

1.2.3 Bio-Medical Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2018 ........................................................................... 14

1.2.4 Electronic Waste Management: ......................................................................................................................... 15

1.2.5 Plastic Waste Management (amendment) rules ............................................................................................... 15

1.2.6 India’s best city in solid waste management ..................................................................................................... 15

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1.2.7 Seaweed to remove lead, chromium and dyes from wastewater .................................................................... 15

1.2.8 Tiny spheres to trap water contaminants developed ........................................................................................ 16

1.2.9 Water Disinfection System “OneerTM” ............................................................................................................. 16

1.2.10 Waste water reusable pilot project .................................................................................................................. 17

1.2.11 The plastic road technology .............................................................................................................................. 17

1.2.12 World Habitat Day ............................................................................................................................................. 17

2. CLIMATE CHANGE ............................................................................................................................................................. 18

2.1 Climate ........................................................................................................................................................................ 18

2.1.1 Thunderstorm ...................................................................................................................................................... 18

2.1.2 Pollution cools monsoon days: study ................................................................................................................. 18

2.1.3 Cyclone Daye ....................................................................................................................................................... 18

2.1.4 Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services .................................................... 19

2.1.5 Ocean mean temperature can better predict Indian summer monsoon .......................................................... 19

2.1.6 India’s polar research to Arctic ........................................................................................................................... 19

2.1.7 India to give flash-flood warning to Asian nations ............................................................................................ 19

2.2Climate Change Impacts .............................................................................................................................................. 20

2.2.1 Coral sediments in oceans could dissolve by next century................................................................................ 20

2.2.2 Arctic permafrost ................................................................................................................................................ 20

2.2.3 Phytoplanktons affect Earth’s climate ............................................................................................................... 21

2.2.4 IPCC Report .......................................................................................................................................................... 21

2.3 Mitigation and Adaptation ........................................................................................................................................ 22

2.3.1 Earth Hour 2018 .................................................................................................................................................. 22

2.3.2 Cloud brightening, 'sun shields' to save Barrier Reef ........................................................................................ 22

2.3.3 Green Good Deeds Movement ........................................................................................................................... 22

2.3.4 Workshop On Greenhouse Gas Inventories in Asia ........................................................................................... 23

3. CONSERVATION ................................................................................................................................................................. 23

3.1 Ecosystem and Wildlife .............................................................................................................................................. 23

3.1.1 Potential Ramsar wetland sites .......................................................................................................................... 23

3.1.2 Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 .................................................................................. 24

3.1.3 Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats .................................................................................................... 24

3.1.4 Eco-Sensitive Zones around wildlife sanctuary .................................................................................................. 25

3.1.5 Green Tribunal steps in to conserve Ghats ........................................................................................................ 25



3.1.6 National Action Plan for Conservation of Migratory Birds ................................................................................ 25

3.1.7 India’s fourth national tiger census .................................................................................................................... 26

3.1.8 National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC)......................................................................................................... 26

3.1.9 Global action to protect bees ............................................................................................................................. 27

3.1.10 3rd Decadal International year of Reefs-2018 ................................................................................................. 27

3.1.11 The Caribbean reef (The Mesoamerican Reef)................................................................................................. 27

3.1.12 Proposed Global Geoparks Tag ......................................................................................................................... 28

3.2 Management .............................................................................................................................................................. 28

3.2.1 Forest Fires .......................................................................................................................................................... 28

3.2.2 New forest policy ................................................................................................................................................ 29

3.2.3 Google and UN to track environmental changes ............................................................................................... 29

3.2.4 Government launches Sand Mining Framework ................................................................................................ 30

3.2.5 India’s Status of Forest cover .............................................................................................................................. 30

3.2.6 Global Soil Biodiversity Atlas .............................................................................................................................. 32

3.2.7 Seabed Mining ..................................................................................................................................................... 32

3.2.8 The impact of the river linking project ............................................................................................................... 33

3.2.9 PARIVESH ............................................................................................................................................................. 33

3.2.10 Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) ............................................................................................................................. 34

3.2.11 Conserve Himalayan springs ............................................................................................................................. 34

3.2.13 Landslides prevention ....................................................................................................................................... 35

3.2.14 Dam rehabilitation and Improvement Project(DRIP) ...................................................................................... 36

3.2.15 Composite Water Management Index ............................................................................................................. 36

3.2.16 Odisha beach to get ‘Blue Flag’ tag .................................................................................................................. 36

4. BIODIVERSITY .................................................................................................................................................................... 37

4.1 Diversity ...................................................................................................................................................................... 37

4.1.1 Biodiversity in India ............................................................................................................................................. 37

4.1.2 GM mustard ......................................................................................................................................................... 37

4.1.3 National Biodiversity award 2018 ...................................................................................................................... 37

4.2 Threats ........................................................................................................................................................................ 38

4.2.1 Captive-bred vultures face drug problem .......................................................................................................... 38

4.2.2 Threats to Himalayan biodiversity ...................................................................................................................... 38

4.2.3 Invasive Species ................................................................................................................................................... 39




4.2.4 Threats to Harrier birds ....................................................................................................................................... 39

4.2.5 Eight avian species declared “extinct” in new study ......................................................................................... 39



1. POLLUTION AND DEGRADATION

1.1 Pollution Control

1.1.2 Ban on petcoke as a fuel

The government proposal follows a ban ordered by the Supreme Court An oil refinery by-product, petroleum coke, or petcoke, is used as a fuel because of its higher

energy content than coal, but it releases larger amounts of carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide, which can cause lung disease and acid rain.

The government would still allowing petcoke to be used in the limestone and cement industries

1.1.2 Atal Bhujal Yojana

The Government has proposed Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY) aimed at sustainable ground water management with community participation in select over-exploited and ground water stressed areas in seven States (Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh) Highlights:

Water being a State subject, steps for augmentation, conservation and efficient management of water resources to ensure sustainability and availability are primarily undertaken by the respective State Governments

Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) is regulating ground water development in 23 States/UTs

Groundwater depletion in India

Many parts of the country are experiencing rapid depletion of groundwater. The Indo-Gangetic Plain, northwestern, central and western parts of India account for most

intensive groundwater-based irrigation Natural recharge during monsoon may not help much if groundwater depletion becomes

acute. Groundwater management:

Irrigation based on information provided by the tensiometers helped farmers in the five districts save 10–36% groundwater.

Cultivating less water-intensive crops Use better irrigation technologies and Irrigate crops only when necessary Afforestation

1.1.3 Tracking groundwater pollutants in real-time

Scientists have developed a low-cost method to monitor groundwater pollutants in real-time. Highlights:

The course of action often involves long-term monitoring The analysis of the autonomous in situ data can be rapidly analysed remotely using machine

learning methods.




The data from the multiple sensors were then fed into a Kalman filter to estimate contaminant concentrations

Kalman filter: It is a mathematical algorithm that can integrate mixed time-series data to make estimates. It is used in various fields, such as traffic prediction and remote sensing

1.1.4 Microplastics in Drinking Water

Micro plastic particles are in the 100 micron, or 0.10 millimetre size range Includes polypropylene, nylon, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) Recent studies have found micro-plastic in the oceans, soil, air, lakes, and rivers. Plastic’s final frontier may be the human body.

1.1.5 Severe uranium contamination in India’s groundwater

Scientists have found widespread uranium contamination in groundwater from aquifers across 16 states in India, much above the WHO provisional standard for the country. The Standards

The WHO has set a provisional safe drinking water standard of 30 micrograms of uranium per litre for India

Uranium is not yet included in the list of contaminants monitored under the Bureau of Indian Standards’ Drinking Water Specifications

Causes

The primary source of uranium is geogenic (naturally occurring) The study suggests that contribution of human factors such as groundwater depletion and

nitrate pollution may be aggravating the already present natural uranium contamination to dangerous levels.

Many of India’s aquifers are composed of clay, silt and gravel carried down from Himalayan weathering by streams or uranium-rich granitic rocks.

When over-pumping of these aquifers’ groundwater occurs and their water levels decline, it induces oxidation conditions that, in turn, enhance uranium enrichment in the shallow groundwater that remains.

Several studies have linked exposure to uranium in drinking water to chronic kidney disease.

1.1.6 National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)

The NCAP is conceived as a detailed strategy to ensure that cities across the country meet specified air quality norms.

It envisions setting up 1,000 manual air-quality-monitoring stations and 268 automatic stations It also, for the first time, plans to set up pollution-monitoring stations in rural areas.

1.1.7 Nitrogen emissions going up

Nitrogen particles make up the largest fraction of PM2.5 says the first-ever quantitative assessment of nitrogen pollution in India. Highlights:

The burning of crop residue is said to be a key contributor to winter smog in many parts of North India



The non-agricultural emissions of nitrogen oxides and nitrous oxide are growing rapidly, with sewage and fossil-fuel burning for power, transport and industry leading the trend.

India is globally the biggest source of ammonia emission, nearly double that of NOx emissions.

1.1.8 Maharashtra tops in air toxicity

Based on the air quality data generated during 2011-2015, the Central Pollution Control Board has identified 94 towns, for not meeting the prescribed standards

Highlights: The towns are in the Thane district-Badlapur-Ulhasnagar and Pune belts. High levels of NO2 and PM10 determine air toxicity, with excess NO2 levels known to cause

severe respiratory infections. Particulates come mainly from construction activity and roadside dust Kolkata and Delhi reported high levels of NO2 along with PM10. Uttar Pradesh reported 15 of its cities and towns to have exceeded the PM10 level.

1.1.9 The cost of pollution

At the household level, the economic loss on account of pollution includes the cost of treatment and wage loss during sickness.

Pollution impacts ecosystems and related economic activities like agriculture and livestock Pollution impacts the socially vulnerable and poor communities more due to their weak coping

options Remedial measures

There should be public awareness about its consequences, Adequate pollution-linked databases, integration of pollution prevention policies into the

development sector Strict enforcement of pollution control policies Eco-friendly inputs in production Reliance on renewable energy Increase in ecosystem resilience through the conservation of biodiversity.

The environmental Kuznets curve(EKC): The EKC hypothesis which suggests that as per capita income grows, the increase in

environmental impact hits the maximum and thereafter declines India is on the upward part of the EKC

1.1.10 System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting– SAFAR

The giant true colour LED display gives out real-time air quality index on 24x7 basis with colour coding alongwith 72-hour advance forecast.

It was developed indigenously by Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune and operationalized by India Meteorological Department (IMD).

It also measure sun’s UV-Index in addition to monitoring and forecasting of regular air quality and




weather parameters will provide measurement of online automatic ultrafine particles PM1 and Mercury. Based on UVI, skin advisories will be issued on display The mission model project SAFAR is implemented in four cities of India – Delhi, Pune, Mumbai

and Ahmedabad as an operational service. The system will be an integral part of India’s first Air Quality Early Warning System It will monitor all weather parameters like temperature, rainfall, humidity, wind speed and

wind direction. In addition to regular air quality parameters like PM2.5, PM10, Sulfur Dioxide, Ozone, Nitrogen

Oxides, Carbon Monoxide, the system will also monitor the existence of Benzene, Toluene and Xylene.

1.1.11 AQI

Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool to showcase air quality status. It transforms complex air quality data of various pollutants into a single number and colour.

As the AQI increases, an increasingly large percentage of the population is likely to experience increasingly severe adverse health effects.

Six categories of air quality: 1. Good- AQI between 0 and 50 2. Satisfactory- AQI between 51 and 100 3. Moderate- AQI between 101 and 200 4. Poor- AQI between 201 and 300 5. Very poor- AQI between 301 and 400 6. Severe- AQI between 401 and 500

The measurement of air quality is based on eight pollutants namely: 1. Particulate Matter (size less than 10 µm) or (PM10), 2. Particulate Matter (size less than 2.5 µm) or (PM2.5), 3. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), 4. Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), 5. Carbon Monoxide (CO), 6. Ozone (O3), 7. Ammonia (NH3), and 8. Lead (Pb)

1.1.12 Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA)

The EPCA has 14 members and a chairman It aims to protect and improve quality of environment and prevent and control environmental

pollution in National Capital Region. To enforce Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in NCR as per the pollution levels. The EPCA assists the Supreme court in various environment-related matters in the region. It was notified in 1998 by Environment Ministry under Environment Protection Act, 1986.



1.1.13 WAYU- Air Pollution Mitigation Device

Air pollution control device WAYU (Wind Augmentation Purifying Unit) for traffic junctions was recently inaugurated in Delhi.

About WAYU: WAYU is developed by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Environmental

Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI). The device works on two principles mainly Wind generation for dilution of air pollutants and

Active Pollutants removal. The device has filters for Particulate Matter removal and activated carbon (charcoal) and UV

lamps for poisonous gases removal such as VOCs and Carbon Monoxide. There are two UV lamps and half kg of activated carbon charcoal coated with special chemical

Titanium Dioxide.

1.1.14 Ozone Layer Status

A new UN report has unveiled that ozone layer is finally beginning to heal from all the damages caused by anthropogenic means. Highlights:

In 1987, countries around the world agreed in the Montreal Protocol to phase out CFCs and businesses came up with replacements for spray cans and other forms of the harmful chemicals.

As a result of it, the upper ozone layer above the Northern Hemisphere should be completely restored in the 2030s.

About ozone layer: A layer of ozone envelops the Earth and keeps damaging ultraviolet, or UV, radiation from

reaching living things on the planet’s surface. The ozone layer exists mainly in the stratosphere, a layer of the atmosphere that reaches from

10 to 50 kilometers (about 6 to 30 miles) above the Earth’s surface. About chlorofluorocarbon:

Chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, are compounds made up of combinations of the elements chlorine, fluorine and carbon; aerosols, refrigerants and foams contain CFCs.

When these CFCs enter the air, they rise up into the atmosphere to meet up with and destroy ozone molecules.

CFCs have lifetimes from 50 to 100 years. About Montreal Protocol:

The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of numerous substances that are responsible for ozone depletion.

The protocol has been amended by Kigali Agreement Kigali agreement aims to phase out Hydro fluorocarbons (HFCs), a family of potent greenhouse

gases by the late 2040s.




1.1.15 Clean Ganga Mission

River Ganga

Coursing 2,500 km, the Ganga is the longest river within India’s borders. Its basin constitutes 26% of the country’s land mass and supports 43% of its population. The basin spreads across 11 States Five states are located along the river’s main stem: Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand,

Bihar and West Bengal. Much of its pollution load — chemical effluents, sewage, dead bodies, and excreta — comes

from these States. Industrial pollution, volume-wise, accounts for about 20% The industrial pollutants largely emanate from tanneries in Kanpur and distilleries, paper mills

and sugar mills in the Kosi, Ramganga and Kali river catchments. Achievements so far

251 Gross Polluting Industries (GPI) have been closed real time monitoring of pollutions is being done in 938 industries 20 modular STPs(Sewage Treatment Plants) are being deployed to treat Nalla water almost all the 4470 villages on the bank of Ganga are now Open Defecation Free (ODF)

Namami Gange

Is an integrated Ganga Conservation Mission. It is an umbrella programme with the aim to integrate

previous, currently ongoing and new projects planned as part of the programme

1.1.16 E-Flow for Ganga

The Central Government notified the minimum environmental flows for River Ganga that has to be maintained at various locations on the river. Highlights:

Environmental flows are the acceptable flow regimes that are required to maintain a river in the desired environmental state or predetermined state

The notification of e-flow for the river would go a long way in ensuring its Avirala dhara or continuous flow.

It will ensure that the river has at least the minimum required environmental flow of water even after the river flow gets diverted by projects and structures for purposes like irrigation, hydropower, domestic and industrial use etc.

It will apply to the upper Ganga River Basin up to Haridwar and the main stem of River Ganga up to Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh

It is applicable to all existing, under-construction and future projects. The mini and micro projects which do not alter the flow characteristics of the river or stream

significantly are exempted from these environmental flows. About Aviral dhara:

The Vision for Ganga Rejuvenation constitutes restoring the wholesomeness of the river defined in terms of ensuring “Aviral Dhara” (Continuous Flow”).

Implement the work programme of National Ganga River Basin Authority(NGRBA).



Implement the World Bank supported National Ganga River Basin Project. Coordinate and oversee the implementation of projects sanctioned by Government of India

under NGRBA.

1.1.17 Draft Ganga clean-up law

The Bill calls for a National Ganga Council and a National Ganga Rejuvenation Authority to enforce the law.

The draft Bill envisages the Ganga Protection Corps as an armed force constituted and maintained by the Central government

The commercial fishing or aquaculture activities in the Ganga and any of its tributaries shall be punishable.

The construction of permanent structure for residential, commercial and residential purposes in the active flood plain area of Ganga will be punishable.

1.1.18 Clean Air India Initiative

Prime Minister of Netherlands launched the ‘Clean Air India Initiative’ The campaign aims to curb air pollution in Indian cities by promoting partnerships between

Indian start-ups and Dutch companies Build a network of entrepreneurs working on business solutions for cleaner air.

1.1.19 India’s to phase out single-use plastics by 2022

India has demonstrated global leadership by announcing that it will phase out single-use plastics by 2022.

The theme of World Environment Day – 2018 is Beat Plastic Pollution. Single use Plastics

Single-use plastics, or disposable plastics, are used only once before they are thrown away or recycled. These items are things like plastic bags, straws, coffee stirrers, soda and water bottles and most food packaging.

The nature of petroleum based disposable plastic makes it difficult to recycle and they have to add new virgin materials and chemicals to it to do so. Additionally there are a limited number of items that recycled plastic can be used.

Although plastic will not biodegrade, (decompose into natural substance like soil), it will break down into tiny particles after many years. In the process of breaking down, it releases toxic chemicals (additives that were used to shape and harden the plastic) which make their way into our food and water supply.

EU proposes ban on single-use plastics The European Union proposed a bloc-wide ban on single-use plastics such as straws, cutlery and cotton buds while urging the collection of most plastic drinks bottles by 2025.

1.1.20 Black plastics

Manufacturers are using recycled electrical equipment as a source of black plastic. Black plastics constituting about 15% of the domestic waste stream This waste material is not readily recycled owing to the low sensitivity of black pigments to

near infrared radiation used in conventional plastic sorting facilities.




There are potentially harmful effects for the marine and coastal environment

1.1.21 Malnutrition in trees due to pollution

Air pollution is causing malnutrition in trees by harming a fungi that is important for providing mineral nutrients to tree roots. Mycorrhizae

Mycorrhizal fungi is hosted by the trees in their roots to receive nutrients from the soil.

These fungi provide essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from soil in exchange for carbon from the tree.

This plant-fungal relationship is an example of symbiotic relationship Effects of pollution:

High levels of the nutrition elements like nitrogen and phosphorus in the mycorrhizae changes them to act as pollutants rather than as nutrients

The signs of malnutrition can be seen in the form of discoloured leaves and excessive falling of leaves

Ecosystem changes can determine which species of mycorrhizae fungi would be present and their numbers.

1.1.22 SC Judgement on Crackers

The Supreme Court has allowed sale of only “green” and reduced-emission or “improved” crackers. The time for bursting crackers during Deepavali and other festivals is two hours: between 8

p.m. and 10 p.m. The reduced time window is applicable across the country. The sale of green and improved crackers would be only through licensed traders. Petroleum and Explosive Safety Organisation (PESO) to clear all firecrackers It banned online sale through e-commerce websites

Green crackers: They do not contain harmful chemicals that would cause air pollution.

1.2 Waste Management

1.2.1 Local Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse (LOTUSHR) project

Is a joint initiative of Indian and Dutch scientists. The project demonstrates how science and technology can be leveraged to effectively turn

urban waste into profitable mines



Produces clean water which is reused for various purposes simultaneously recovering nutrients and energy from the urban waste water

1.2.2 Low viscosity fuel oil from plastic waste

Researchers from IIT Guwahati have successfully converted packaging plastic waste to plastic-derived oil (PDO), which has characteristics similar to diesel.

Heating at very high temperatures in inert conditions caused the plastic to convert into wax, so

researchers found a particular temperature range in which the plastic turned to plastic-derived oil and stayed in its oil state

The new oil had calorific value greater than 45 MJ per kilogram. Calorific value of petrol and diesel is 46-48 and 44-46 MJ per kilogram, respectively.

1.2.3 Bio-Medical Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2018

Bio-medical waste generators including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, dispensaries, veterinary institutions, animal houses, pathological laboratories, blood banks, health care facilities, and clinical establishments will have to phase out chlorinated plastic bags (excluding blood bags) and gloves by March 27, 2019.




All healthcare facilities shall make available the annual report on its website. Operators of common bio-medical waste treatment and disposal facilities shall establish bar

coding and global positioning system for handling of bio-medical waste.

1.2.4 Electronic Waste Management:

Reduction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) - Inspections to check whether the levels of lead, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, mercury and polybrominated diphenyl ethers exceed prescribed norms.

If a company falls foul of the rules, it will have to withdraw its line of products or pay fines Electronic goods manufacturers were required to ensure that at least 30% of their phones,

fridges, laptops, washing machines sold, and of a certain vintage, had to be recycled through authorised channels.

1.2.5 Plastic Waste Management (amendment) rules

The amended Rules lay down that the phasing out of Multilayered Plastic (MLP), which are “non-recyclable, or non-energy recoverable, or with no alternate use.”

The amended Rules also prescribe a central registration system for the registration of the producer/importer/brand owner.

Strengthen the concept of ‘extended producers responsibility’ whereby plastics manufacturers and retail establishments that use plastic are legally bound to introduce a system of collecting back plastic waste.

They envisage promoting the use of plastic waste for road construction, or energy recovery, or waste to oil, etc.,

They mandate an increase in the thickness of carry bags and plastic sheets from 40 to 50 micron.

Local bodies and gram panchayats are responsible for implementing and coordinating a waste management system

1.2.6 India’s best city in solid waste management

The Union government has selected Mangaluru in the state of Karnataka as “India’s best city in solid waste management” under the categories of cities having a population between three lakh and 10 lakh under Swachhata Survekshan 2018

The on-field survey for Swachhata Survekshan has been conducted by an independent agency The data for ranking the cities were collected through direct observation, citizen feedback and

service-level progress (meant to verify whether systems and processes are in place in Urban Local Bodies to implement Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) in the most efficient way)

1.2.7 Seaweed to remove lead, chromium and dyes from wastewater

CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavanagar, Gujarat have synthesised a graphene–iron sulphide nanocomposite to remove these toxic materials from wastewater. Highlights

The graphene nanocomposite functionalised with iron sulphide facilitates the adsorption of heavy metals and dyes



The amount of lead adsorbed is the highest ever reported for any biomass derived carbon material.

Lead adsorption was irreversible even at low pH as the interaction of lead with the composite is very strong

Lead has high affinity for chromate and dichromate leading to the formation of lead chromate or lead dichromate

1.2.8 Tiny spheres to trap water contaminants developed

Scientists have created tiny spheres that can catch and destroy bisphenol A (BPA), a synthetic chemical used to make plastics that often contaminates water. Key Features:

The micron-sized spheres developed resemble tiny flower-like collections of titanium dioxide petals.

The supple petals provide plenty of surface area for researchers to anchor cyclodextrin a benign sugar-based molecule often used in food and drugs.

It has a two-faced structure, with a hydrophobic (water-avoiding) cavity and a hydrophilic (water-attracting) outer surface.

BPA is hydrophobic and naturally attracted to the cavity. Once trapped, reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by the spheres degrades BPA into harmless chemicals.

About bisphenol A : BPA is commonly used to coat the insides of food cans, bottle tops and water supply lines, and

was once a component of baby bottles. Concerns: While BPA that seeps into food and drink is considered safe in low doses, prolonged

exposure is suspected of affecting the health of children and contributing to high blood pressure.

1.2.9 Water Disinfection System “OneerTM”

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow has developed an innovative technology for “Drinking Water Disinfection System” with Trade name “Onee’’. Highlights:

It is useful for continuous treatment of water and eliminates all disease causing pathogens such as virus, bacteria, fungi, protozoa and cyst

To provide safe drinking water to domestic and communities settings as per National and International standards prescribed for potable water (BIS, WHO etc.).

The device will go a long way in meeting the requirements of potable water in rural and urban areas

The technology will be helpful especially for rural people since it can be solar powered and The development is in line with the ‘Make in India’ Mission




1.2.10 Waste water reusable pilot project

In an effort to upgrade technology that would make waste water more reusable, the Centre for Environmental Studies, Anna University has initiated a pilot project along with L&T Construction for sewage treatment.

The project aims to reduce pollutant levels in waste water to the extent that it can be reused. Water Treatment Method:

The biological method using microbes Would also use a UV LED disinfection system to remove coliform bacteria. Aeration is the process of adding air to allow biodegradation of pollutants Decanting is a process to separate sediments. The various treatment processes like filling, settling, aeration and decanting would be done in

the same reactor instead of different reactors.

1.2.11 The plastic road technology

One tonne of plastic waste is used with nine tonnes of bitumen to lay 1 km of road. The only unusable plastics are polyvinyl chloride, which releases harmful dioxins when heated

up. A performance appraisal by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that plastic

roads did not develop familiar defects: potholes, rutting, ravelling or edge flaw. The Roads Ministry “encourages” the use of waste plastic in National Highways construction,

especially on National Highways within a 50 km periphery of urban areas that have a population of 5 lakh or more.

Benefits: Use plastic waste Longer durability of roads Reducing wear and tear. Saves costs Effective use of plastic waste Reduces environmental burden of plastic

1.2.12 World Habitat Day

World Habitat Day is observed every year on the first Monday of October throughout the world. It was officially designated by the United Nations and first celebrated in 1986. The purpose of the day is to reflect on the state of our cities and towns and the basic human

right to adequate shelter. It also aims to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the habitat of future

generations. The theme of 2018 World Habitat Day is ‘Municipal Solid Waste Management’ with a slogan

‘Waste-wise cities’. a. Raise awareness that Municipal solid waste is a global challenge that all of us need to address b. Facilitate policy dialogue and form partnerships



c. Promote innovative solutions to municipal solid waste management d. Mobilize resources to address the municipal solid waste challenge

2. CLIMATE CHANGE

2.1 Climate 2.1.1 Thunderstorm

Also known as an electrical storm, lightning storm, or thundershower, is a storm characterized by the presence of lightning and thunder.

Thunderstorms occur in a type of cloud known as a cumulonimbus. They are usually accompanied by strong winds, heavy rain, and sometimes snow, sleet, hail, or,

in contrast, no precipitation at all. Strong or severe thunderstorms include some of the most dangerous weather phenomena like

large hail, strong winds, and tornadoes.

2.1.2 Pollution cools monsoon days: study

A study has found that increased emissions of aerosols into the atmosphere due to pollution are beginning to have a definite cooling effect of 1 degree C during the Indian summer monsoon period. Highlights:

The increased cooling is seen during the day, while the night time temperature is increasing, thus shrinking the diurnal temperature difference.

The diurnal temperature difference is what drives the convection process (where water evaporates and reaches the atmosphere as water vapour), and development of clouds.

The increased concentration of aerosols in the atmosphere also tends to change the shape and characteristics of rain-bearing clouds, leading to extreme rainfall events but weakened monsoon rainfall. The cloud structure being modified with increased aerosol emission.

2.1.3 Cyclone Daye

Tropical Cyclones

Tropical cyclones form only over warm ocean waters near the equator.

The warm air rises, causing an area of lower air pressure below.

Air from surrounding areas with higher air pressure pushes in to the low pressure area.

As the warm, moist air rises and cools off, the water in the air forms clouds

Storms that form north of the equator spin counterclockwise. Storms south of the equator spin clockwise.

Tropical cyclones usually weaken when they hit land




2.1.4 Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services

It will be implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences through its institutes namely India Meteorological Department (IMD), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Service(INCOIS).

To ensure last-mile connectivity of the weather based services to the end -user. To provide a reliable weather and climate forecast for betterment of society

2.1.5 Ocean mean temperature can better predict Indian summer monsoon

The ocean mean temperature (OMT) has better ability to predict Indian monsoon season than the sea surface temperature(SST). Ocean mean temperature:

OMT is analysed by measuring the ocean thermal energy during the period from January to March.

OMT showed better success in predicting above or below-average rainfall years compared with SST.

OMT better represents the upper ocean thermal energy conditions. Sea surface temperature:

The SST is restricted to a few millimetres of the top ocean layer and is largely influenced by strong winds, evaporation, or thick clouds

SST exhibits large temperature fluctuations compared with OMT.

2.1.6 India’s polar research to Arctic

National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research (NCAOR) of Indian Government is planning to establish new observation systems in Arctic circle. Highlights:

To study about Climate change Exploration of hydrocarbon reserves in Arctic To study about the Monsoon impact in India due to sea level rise Geopolitical collaborations

IndARC: India’s underground observatory located at t the Kongsfjorden fjord, half way between Norway and the North Pole.

2.1.7 India to give flash-flood warning to Asian nations

The world meteorological organization (WMO) designated India as a nodal centre for preparing flash-flood forecasts. Facts:

It implies that India will have to develop a customized model that can issue advance warning of floods in Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand.

India currently has a warning system for Tsunami that also doubles up a warning system for several Asian countries.



The Central Water Commission recently tied up with Google to develop a software application to visualize rising water levels during the heavy rains.

About Flash flood guidance system: It provides forecasts by computing the likelihood of

rainfall and the soil moisture levels to warn of possible floods.

Use of satellite mapping and ground based observations.

Aims to provide forecasts six hours in advance. World Meteorological Organization:

It is an intergovernmental organization with a membership of 191 Member States and Territories.

It originated from the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), which was founded in 1873

It provides the framework for essential international cooperation among the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services of its 191 Member States and Territories

2.2 Climate Change Impacts

2.2.1 Coral sediments in oceans could dissolve by next century

As oceans get more acidic, sediments that constitute coral reefs could begin dissolving by the end of this century. Highlights:

Scientists found that the link between sediment dissolution and acidification is stronger than that between acidification and coral formation.

With repeated bleaching, frequent storms due to climate change and now, ocean acidification that causes sediment dissolution apart from slowing down coral-building

Coral reefs: Coral reefs are formed by not just the calcium

carbonate skeletons that tiny animals called coral ‘polyps’ create, but also carbonate sediments which accumulate on them over thousands of years.

Ocean acidification: Lowering of sea water’s pH when it absorbs the excess, human-caused carbon dioxide from the

atmosphere – prevents polyps from building their stony skeletons.

2.2.2 Arctic permafrost

Permafrost in the coldest northern Arctic can become a permanent source of carbon to the atmosphere this century, a NASA study warns.




Highlights

Permafrost is soil that has remained frozen for years or centuries under topsoil. It contains carbon-rich organic material, such as leaves, that froze without decaying. As rising Arctic air temperatures cause permafrost to thaw, the organic material decomposes

and releases its carbon to the atmosphere in the form of the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide and methane.

2.2.3 Phytoplanktons affect Earth’s climate

The North Atlantic Aerosols and Marine Ecosystems Study (NAAMES) mission will study how phytoplanktons give rise to small organic particles that leave the ocean and end up in the atmosphere, ultimately influencing clouds and climate.

Satellites such as CALIPSO, a joint NASA and CNES

mission, also help to study the ocean and the

atmosphere - from the depths of the phytoplankton

bloom, to the clouds and atmospheric particles in the

sky above.

2.2.4 IPCC Report

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), recently released a report highlighting the impacts that developing countries like India would face if global warming touches 2°C as compared to 1.5°C. Oceans heating faster

The world’s oceans have absorbed 60% more heat than previously thought over the last quarter of a century, scientists reported. Highlights:

Scientists from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) said that the world’s oceans have absorbed 90% of the temperature rise caused by man-made carbon emissions.

The study found that for each of the last 25 years, oceans had absorbed heat energy equivalent to 150 times the amount of electricity mankind produces annually.

Both Oxygen and carbon dioxide gases are soluble in water, but the rate at which water absorbs them decreases as it warms.

Deadly heat waves

The deadly heat waves could hit India and if the world gets warmer by 2 degree Celsius over pre-industrial levels

In the Indian subcontinent, the IPCC report specifically mentions Kolkata and Karachi among cities that could face an increased threat of heat waves.

Warnings to India:

Higher risks from heavy precipitation events, including flooding and tropical cyclones. Increased number of hot days and Coastal flooding.



Denting India’s GDP by 2.8% and depress the living standards of nearly half the population by 2050.

Decreased food availability as a result of projected dip in crop production. Increased risk of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue

Suggestions: Large investments are needed to make the transitions in each sector that would take the

country to a near zero-carbon economy. A carbon tax that curbs the non-essential consumption could be employed. Decentralised, neighbourhood-scale micro-utilities, managed by locally owned enterprises and

cooperatives. Modern power electronics and innovations in hybrid waste to energy, water recycling etc.

2.3 Mitigation and Adaptation

2.3.1 Earth Hour 2018

Earth Hour is the world’s largest movement and shines a light on the need for climate action. Highlights:

Earth Hour is a worldwide movement organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

The event is held annually encouraging

individuals, communities, and businesses to turn

off non-essential electric lights for one hour, as a

symbol of commitment to the planet.

2.3.2 Cloud brightening, 'sun shields' to save Barrier Reef

Innovative ideas to protect the site

1. Cloud brightening where salt crystals harvested from seawater are fired into clouds, making them more reflective and therefore deflecting solar rays back into space.

2. Biodegradable "sun shield", where an ultra-thin film containing light-reflecting particles covers some reef waters to protect corals from heat stress.

3. Mass producing coral larvae with the aid of 3D-printed surfaces to support new growth, and

large-scale harvesting and relocation of larvae.

2.3.3 Green Good Deeds Movement

Green Good Deeds is a societal movement launched by the Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change to protect environment and promote good living in the country.

The campaign has been launched by the Environment Ministry to sensitise the people and students, in particular, about climate change and global warming.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change had drawn up a list of over 500 Green Good Deeds and asked people to alter their behaviour to Green Good Behaviour to fulfil their Green Social Responsibility.




These small, positive actions, to be performed by individuals or organisations to strengthen the

cause of environmental protection have been put up on a mobile App named “Dr Harsh

Vardhan”.

2.3.4 Workshop On Greenhouse Gas Inventories in Asia

The 16th Workshop on Greenhouse Gas Inventories in Asia (WGIA16) was held in Delhi. India is

hosting WGIA for the first time.

WGIA Is an initiative of Government of Japan to improve the quality of Greenhouse Gas Inventories

of Asian countries Building capacities through training and exchange of experience. A reliable and robust inventory is the backbone of climate action. It will contribute towards enhanced reporting and transparency as required under the

Convention and its Paris Agreement. 15 countries including Brunei, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Lao

PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam are WGIA members

3. CONSERVATION

3.1 Ecosystem and Wildlife

3.1.1 Potential Ramsar wetland sites

1. Ranganathittu

The sanctuary supports more than 1% of the world population of spot-billed pelicans

The sanctuary supports mugger crocodiles and a host of other species of birds

2. Sunderbans

The Sundarbans is a vast forest in the coastal region of the Bay of Bengal and considered one of the natural wonders of the world.

Located in the delta region of Padma, Meghna and Brahmaputra river basins The Sundarbans contain the world's largest coastal mangrove forest It is home to about 100 Royal Bengal tigers

About Ramsar site

A Ramsar Site is a wetland site designated of international importance under the Ramsar Convention

The Convention on Wetlands, known as the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental environmental treaty established in 1971 by UNESCO, and coming into force in 1975.

It provides for national action and international cooperation regarding the conservation of wetlands, and wise sustainable use of their resources



Ramsar identifies wetlands of international importance, especially those providing waterfowl habitat.

There are currently 26 sites in India recognised as Ramsar wetland sites of international importance

3.1.2 Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017

National committee to replace Central wetland Authority Under the new rules of 2017, the CWRA will be replaced by a national committee The powers have been given to the State governments so that protection and conservation

work can be done at the local level. Central government has mainly retained powers regarding monitoring The State authorities will also need to prepare a list of all wetlands of the State or union

territory within three months, a list of wetlands to be notified within six months, a comprehensive digital inventory of all wetlands within one year which will be updated every ten years.

The rules prohibit activities like conversion of wetland for non-wetland uses

3.1.3 Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved continuation of the Centrally Sponsored Umbrella Scheme of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (CSS-IDWH) upto 2019-20. Key Highlights:

The Scheme consists of Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger (CSS-PT), Development of Wildlife Habitats (CSS-DWH) and Project Elephant (CSS-PE).

Address the human wildlife conflict Generate employment opportunities for people in and around tiger reserves/ Protected Areas Reduction in natural resource dependency with substitution by clean energy use Sustaining life support systems as well as ensuring the food, water and livelihood security.

Project Tiger: Project Tiger is a tiger conservation programme launched in 1973. The project aims at ensuring a viable population of Bengal tigers in their natural habitats,

protecting them from extinction, and preserving areas of biological importance as a natural heritage

The government has set up a Tiger Protection Force to combat poachers and funded relocation of villagers to minimize human-tiger conflicts.

Project Elephant: It launched in 1992 to provide financial and technical support of wildlife management efforts

by states for their free ranging populations of wild Asian Elephants. The project aims to ensure long-term survival of elephants in their natural habitats by

protecting the elephants, their habitats and migration corridors. Significance of Elephants

elephants keep walking an eating for 18 hours in a day and defecate half-digested food, including grass, bamboo and leaves over a wide area, giving rise to another chain of events.




If elephants are confined to one place, nature’s linkage is broken. So there is need to protect the elephant corridors.

Efforts

101 elephant corridors are identified to be protected. Elephants were declared as a National Heritage Animal in the year 2010.

3.1.4 Eco-Sensitive Zones around wildlife sanctuary

In the Eco sensitive zone, industrial or mining activity are restricted. Eco sensitive zone:

Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) are areas notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India around Protected Areas , National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.

The purpose of declaring ESZs is to create some kind of “shock absorbers” to the protected areas by regulating and managing the activities around such areas.

They also act as a transition zone from areas of high protection to areas involving lesser protection

3.1.5 Green Tribunal steps in to conserve Ghats

The six Western Ghats States, including Kerala, have been restrained by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) from giving environmental clearance to activities that may adversely impact the eco-sensitive areas of the mountain ranges. About NGT:

The National Green Tribunal has been established in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act 2010.

It aims for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection Enforcement of any legal right relating to environment and giving relief and compensation for

damages to persons and property. The Tribunal shall not be bound by the procedure laid down under the Code of Civil Procedure,

but shall be guided by principles of natural justice. About Western Ghats:

Western Ghats also known as Sahyadri runs parallel to the western coast of the Indian peninsula.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity in the world.

The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change had accepted the Kasturirangan report and issued the draft notifications on ecologically sensitive zones

3.1.6 National Action Plan for Conservation of Migratory Birds

It specifically covers species which take long distances from Siberia in Russia to make the country their temporary home during winter.

The NAP lays down a range of actions at national, state and local levels with overall longer-term goal to arrest population decline and secure habitats of migratory bird species.



It is meant for coordinated actions among states for securing and enhancing population of migratory birds in India within their range across the Central Asian Flyway (CAF).

Central Asian Flyway: A flyway is a geographical region

within which a single or a group of migratory species completes its annual cycle - breeding, moulting, staging and non-breeding.

CAF is one of the nine flyways in the world.

CAF covers northernmost breeding ground in Siberia to the southernmost non-breeding grounds in west and south Asia, the Maldives and the British Indian Ocean Territory.

India has a strategic role in the flyway as it provides critical stopover sites to over 90% of the bird species known to use this migratory route.

3.1.7 India’s fourth national tiger census

The fourth All India Tiger Estimation is undertaken to ascertain India’s current tiger population. Key Facts:

India’s tiger population has been observed to increase at a rate of around 5.8% per year since 2006.

India is estimated to be home to around 70% of the world’s tigers Methods used:

Camera trapping by using Global Positioning Systems M-STrIPES, a mobile-based application, to collect data on the field. India will be conducting the census along with the three other tiger-range countries — Nepal,

Bhutan and Bangladesh. The Tiger’s pugmarks identification

Tiger census: In India, tiger census is carried out after a gap of every four years by the National Tiger

Conservation Authority (NTCA).

3.1.8 National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC)

India’s and Asia’s first Dolphin Research Centre will be set up on the banks of the Ganga river in Patna University campus in Patna, Bihar. Highlights:

NDRC will play important role in strengthening conservation efforts and research to save endangered mammal whose population is decreasing.




The Ganges River dolphin, or susu, inhabits the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems of Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.

It is classified as endangered by the IUCN. India has declared Ganga Dolphin as the National Aquatic Animal of India

3.1.9 Global action to protect bees

Significance of Pollinators: The wild pollinators play a very important role in the production of crops such as some pulses,

sunflower seeds, cardamom, coffee, cashew nuts, oranges, mangoes and apples. Pollinators also provide a key ecosystem service vital to the maintenance of both wild and

agricultural plant communities. Declines in the health and population of pollinators pose what could be a significant threat to

the integrity of biodiversity, to global food webs, and to human health. At least 80% of our world’s crop species require pollination to set seed. The UN has warned that 40% of invertebrate pollinators—particularly bees and butterflies—

risk global extinction. The absence of an appropriate habitat for bees could lead to a continuous decline in

pollination. Mono-cropping, pesticides and higher temperatures associated with climate change all pose

problems for bee populations and, by extension, the quality of food we grow. Declining pollination also poses an immediate threat to nutrition

3.1.10 3rd Decadal International year of Reefs-2018

The International Conference on Status and Protection of Coral Reefs (STAPCOR – 2018) was inaugurated at Bangaram coral Island of Union Territory of Lakshadweep. Theme: Reef for Life

Highlights: Discussed the importance of coral reefs and the need for its protection, emphasising on

converting science into adequate policies for conservation. Emphasized effective management strategies leading to restoration of coral reef, along with

the practice of green good deed for behavioral change and social responsibility. About STAPCOR:

The International Conference on Status and Protection of Coral Reefs (STAPCOR) established in the year 1998.

To have a international conference in every 10 years to review the status and progress of coral reefs all over the world.

3.1.11 The Caribbean reef (The Mesoamerican Reef)

Second largest in the world after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia Stretches from the tip of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula all the way to Guatemala and Honduras A popular spot with divers One of the largest ecosystems in the Atlantic. The the portion 380 kilometers in the waters off Belize is covered by World Heritage status.



Was placed on endangered status in 2009 because of Belize’s plans to allow oil exploration nearby and the general lack of laws to protect the site

Present Status

Is now be removed from UNESCO's list of threatened World Heritage Sites In an informal referendum in 2012 in which 96 per cent of Belizeans voted against offshore oil

exploration. The reef is improving thanks to bold steps to save it by environmental activists and the Belizean

government.

3.1.12 Proposed Global Geoparks Tag

Highlights: Lonar Lake in Maharashtra and St. Mary’s Island and Malpe beach in coastal Karnataka are the

GSI’s candidates for UNESCO Global Geopark Network status. St. Mary’s Island, is as national geo-heritage site in 1975

About The Global Geoparks Network: The Global Geoparks Network (GGN) (also known as the Global Network of National Geoparks)

is a UNESCO assisted network established in 1998. The GGN seeks the promotion and conservation of the planet’s geological heritage, as well as

encourages the sustainable research and development by the concerned communities 3.2 Management

3.2.1 Forest Fires

The recent wildfire tragedy in Theni in Tamil Nadu, in which 20 trekkers lost their lives, once again brings into focus forest fires in India. Relaying information:

When a fire anywhere in the world is detected by NASA’s MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) and VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) satellites, the Forest Survey of India (FSI) analyses the data by overlaying the digitised boundaries of forest areas to pinpoint the location to the exact forest compartment

The frequency of the two satellites orbiting the earth has also been increased from twice daily to once in three hours.

Four approaches: There are four approaches to fighting forest fires

Technological, where helicopters or ground-based personnel spray fire retardant chemicals, or pump water to fight the blaze

To contain the fire in compartments bordered by natural barriers such as streams, roads, ridges, and fire lines along hillsides or across plains

To set a counter fire, so that when a fire is unapproachable for humans, a line is cleared of combustibles and manned




To have enough people with leafy green boughs to beat the fire out Mitigating damage:

Increase the number of firefighters as well as equip them More Forest Department field staff could be hired to put out fires during the fire season and to

patrol the forests during other times To enter reserve forests, there is a need to inform concerned authorities or owners about

one’s presence in areas under their charge, whether a reserve forest or a private orchard. Giving access to the public to reserve forests in their present state would have a salutary effect

on the quality of life of our citizenry and the quality of field researchers available within the country

3.2.2 New forest policy

The Union Environment Ministry has come up with a new forest policy that focuses on climate change mitigation and reducing threats like wild fires, encroachment and man-animal conflict. Highlights:

Aims to replace a 30-year-old forest policy The draft calls for mapping vulnerable areas and develop early warning systems and methods

to control fire through remote-sensing technology and community participation NFP, 2018 talks about climate change mitigation through sustainable forest management. NFP, 2018 contributes to the forestry-related Nationally Determined Contribution Targets and

by integrating, “climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in forest management through the mechanism of REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation plus) so that the impacts of the climate change is minimised”.

The draft policy document also talks about degraded land and how it can be improved by undertaking afforestation activities using public private partnership models.

3.2.3 Google and UN to track environmental changes

The UN has entered into a partnership with Google to monitor the impacts of human activity on global ecosystems by using sophisticated online tools. Highlights:

To use most sophisticated online tools to track progress, identify priority areas for action, and bring one step closer to a sustainable world

It has its initial focus on freshwater ecosystems including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes.

Google will periodically produce geospatial maps and data on water-related ecosystems by employing massive parallel Cloud computing technology.

Satellite imagery and statistics will be generated to assess the extent of change occurring to waterbodies, and made freely accessible to ensure nations have the opportunity to track changes, prevent and reverse ecosystem loss.

To establish a platform for open-source data and analysis of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.



To enable all countries with equal access to the latest technology and information in support of

global climate action and sustainable development

3.2.4 Government launches Sand Mining Framework

To help states deal with the issue of sand mining, including demand-supply deficit and illegal extraction, the government launched a framework prepared after intensive consultations with all stakeholders. Highlights:

Sand is an important component for housing, infrastructure projects and construction activities.

The framework also lays emphasis on the possible alternatives of sand, including its import. Impact of sand mining

Excessive instream sand-and-gravel mining causes the degradation of rivers. Depletion of sand in the streambed and along coastal areas causes the deepening of rivers and

estuaries, and the enlargement of river mouths and coastal inlets It may also lead to saline-water intrusion from the nearby sea Sand mining also affects the adjoining groundwater system Many hectares of fertile streamside land are lost annually Degraded stream habitats result in lost of fisheries productivity, biodiversity, and recreational

potential Affects Stability of Structures Increased riverbed and bank erosion increases suspended solids in the water reduced water quality

3.2.5 India’s Status of Forest cover

Forest cover has increased by 6,778 sq km in the country during the last two years, according to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) Highlights:

The growth in forest cover can be attributed to plantation and conservation activities, both within and outside the recorded forest areas

Improvement in interpretation due to better radiometric resolution of the recent satellite data from Resourcesat-2 also helped in making the observation during 2015-17

The total forest and tree cover in India is 24.39 per cent of the country’s geographic area. Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest cover (77,414 sq km) in the country, followed by

Arunachal Pradesh (66,964 sq km), Chhattisgarh (55,547 sq km), Odisha (51,345 sq km) and Maharashtra (50,682 sq km).

Decreasing ‘greenness’ in India’s forests

Hyderabad's National Remote Sensing Centre analysed NASA’s MODIS satellite images of India’s forests at eight-day intervals for 15 years (2001 to 2014) and assessed the persistent decreases in greenness. Highlights:




The highest degradation is in moist deciduous forests (more than 20 lakh hectares), especially in the states of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

Wet evergreen forests – including those in the Western Ghats and Eastern Himalayas – are also affected, with the major changes observed in Karnataka and Arunachal Pradesh, followed by Kerala and Meghalaya.

More than 15% of India’s total mangrove forests also showed a decrease in greenness. Classification of Forest: 1. Tropical forest: A great majority of the forests found in India are of this type. Tropical forests are of two types:

a. Tropical moist forests. b. Tropical dry forests.

2. Subtropical montane forests: These forests are found in the region of fairly high rainfall but where temperature differences between winter and summer are less marked. 3. Temperate Montane forests: These forests occur in the Himalayas at the altitude from 1800 to 3800 metres where humidity and temperature are comparatively low. 4. Sub-alpine Forests

The sub-alpine forests are found throughout Himalayas from Ladakh in the west to Arunachal in the east at the altitude from 2800 m to 3800 m. 5. Alpine forests: Plants growing at the altitude from 2900 to 6000 m are called alpine plants. Trees multiple benefits

Stabilizing the soil Recycling nutrients Cooling the air Modifying wind turbulence Intercepting the rain Absorbing toxins Reducing fuel costs Neutralizing sewage Increasing property values Encouraging recreation Improving personal health Providing food, medicine and Accommodation for other living things



3.2.6 Global Soil Biodiversity Atlas

The World Wide Fund for Nature prepared the Global Soil Biodiversity Atlas.

The Atlas:

It indicates risk index which takes in to account, threats from loss of above-ground diversity, pollution and nutrient over-loading, over-grazing, intensive agriculture, fire, soil erosion, desertification and climate change.

The two key drivers of biodiversity loss were the over exploitation of natural resources and agriculture.

A key aspect of this year’s report is the threat to soil biodiversity and pollinators [such as bees]. The risk index shows India among countries whose soil biodiversity faces the highest level of

risk. Soil biodiversity encompasses the presence of micro-organisms, micro-fauna (nematodes and

tardigrades for example), and macro-fauna (ants, termites and earthworms).

3.2.7 Seabed Mining

About Seabed mining: Seabed mining is the process which involves extracting submerged minerals and resources

from the sea floor, either by dredging sand or lifting material in any other manner. An emerging consensus says that Deep Sea Mining is the removal of minerals from sea beds

deeper than 500 meters. Three forms of DSM have attracted the attention of companies – the mining of cobalt crusts

(CRC), polymetallic nodules, and deposits of seafloor massive sulphides (SMS) also known as Polymetallic Sulphides

Environmental Concerns: Seabed mining would harm marine organisms, disrupt marine ecosystem, thereby impacting the rich biodiversity of oceans in the following ways:

Mining of hydrothermal vents would destroy an extensive patch of productive vent habitat Cobalt-rich crust mining could have a significant impact on corals, sponges and other benthic

organisms associated with seamounts.




Mining of polymetallic nodules will also have devastating effect on the marine biodiversity associated with oceanic ridges.

Extraction of gas hydrates from seabed reserves carries potentially considerable environmental risk.

International Seabed Authority (ISA): The ISA was established in 1982 by UNCLOS and is

an autonomous intergovernmental body with 167 members.

The ISA is responsible for the mineral resources and the marine environment in the Area.

The ISA considers applications for exploration and exploitation of deepsea resources from contractors, assesses environmental impact assessments and supervises mining activities in the ‘Area’.

3.2.8 The impact of the river linking project

Researchers from the University of Colorado on the impact of the National River Linking Project (NRLP) project. Observations:

It will reduce inflow of the northern rivers It will significantly reduce the sediments deposited by the rivers in deltas. Coastal erosion expected to threaten the land and livelihoods of local economies. Reduction in river discharge due to extensive canal works. Silt trapping in newer reservoirs and barrages. The reduced inflows led to shoreline losses in the Krishna, Godavari and Mahanadi rivers. Rare ecosystems and vital agricultural areas would become more vulnerable to storm surges.

About National River Linking Project: The Indian Rivers Inter-link is a proposed large-scale civil engineering project that aims to

effectively manage water resources in India by linking Indian rivers by a network of reservoirs and canals

To reduce persistent floods in some parts and water shortages in other parts of India. The Inter-link project has been split into three parts: a northern Himalayan rivers inter-link

component, a southern Peninsular component and an intrastate rivers linking component. It comprises 29 canals totalling 9,600 km National Water Development Agency is implementing the project.

3.2.9 PARIVESH

Pro-Active and Responsive facilitation by Interactive, Virtuous and Environmental Single-window Hub is an environmental single window hub for Environment, Forest, Wildlife and CRZ clearances launched recently. Highlights:



Single-Window Integrated Environmental Management System has been developed in pursuance of the spirit of ‘Digital India’

It envisages capturing the essence of Minimum Government and Maximum Governance. Key Features:

“PARIVESH” is a workflow based application, based on the concept of web architecture. It has been rolled out for online submission, monitoring and management of proposals

submitted by Project Proponents to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC), as well as to the State Level Environmental Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAA).

It seeks to give various types of clearances (e.g. Environment, Forest, Wildlife and Coastal Regulation Zone Clearances) from Central, State and district-level authorities.

The system has been designed, developed and hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, with technical support from National Informatics Centre, (NIC).

It provides single registration and single sign-in for all types of clearances (i.e. Environment, Forest, Wildlife and CRZ), unique-ID for all types of clearances required for a particular project and a single Window interface for the proponent to submit applications for getting all types of clearances (i.e. Environment, Forests, Wildlife and CRZ clearances).

Benefits: It offers a framework to generate economic growth and strengthens Sustainable Development

through e- Governance. It helps in improving the overall performance and efficiency of the whole appraisal process. It also helps the processing authorities, as it has a Single Window System for Central, State and

District level clearances. The facility of Geographic Information System (GIS) interface for the Appraisal Committee

3.2.10 Deep Ocean Mission (DOM)

The Union Earth Sciences Ministry tasked with coordinating the exercise unveiled a blueprint of the ‘Deep Ocean Mission (DOM)’. Highlights:

An offshore desalination plant that will work with tidal energy Developing a submersible vehicle that can go to a depth of at least 6,000 metres. The mission proposes to explore the deep ocean similar to the space exploration started by

ISRO about 35 years ago. The focus will be on technologies for deep-sea mining, underwater vehicles, underwater

robotics and ocean climate change advisory services, among other aspects. Utilisation of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone spreads over 2.2 million square kilometres and

in the deep sea which is unexplored and unutilised.

3.2.11 Conserve Himalayan springs

A NITI Aayog constituted group of experts noted in its report titled ‘Inventory and Revival of Springs in the Himalayas for Water Security.




Findings: Almost half of the perennial springs have already dried up or have become seasonal Tens of thousands of villages are currently facing acute water shortage for drinking and other

domestic purposes Almost 60% of low-discharge springs that provided water to small habitations in the Himalayan

region have reported clear decline during the last couple of decades The group urged the government to set up a dedicated mission to salvage and revive spring

water systems in the country’s Himalayan States. Causes:

Poor water management Reduced snowmelt Depressed flow from springs Multiple sources of pollution in springs Anthropogenic causes

Recommendations: A multidisciplinary, collaborative approach of managing springs that will involve building upon

the existing body of work on spring water management. The programme could be designed on the concept of an action-research programme as part of

a hydrogeology-based, community-support system on spring water management. The task force moots an 8-year programme to overhaul spring water management. This includes: preparing a digital atlas of the country’s springsheds, training ‘para-

hydrogeologists’ who could lead grassroots conservation and introduction of a ‘Spring Health Card.

3.2.13 Landslides prevention

The landslides had become a common phenomenon in the Himalayan States and other hilly regions of late and rampant construction activities such as laying roads along the hills lopes were triggering the phenomenon.Landslides can be prevented completely if certain techniques are used and the law of nature is respected. Reasons of landslides:

Construction activities Overexploitation of natural resources Rampant deforestation

Preventive measures: Procedures prescribed are duly followed Planting Vetiver species with deep roots Using geosynthetics and Erecting retaining walls Afforestation



3.2.14 Dam rehabilitation and Improvement Project(DRIP)

To improve safety and operational performance of 198 Dams With the financial assistance of the World Bank And mitigate risks to ensure safety of downstream population and property. The primary beneficiaries are both urban and rural communities dependent on reservoir and

downstream communities, who are prone to risk associated with dam failure or operational failure.

Effectiveness of Dam Safety Organisations will be increased to take the lead to make dams safe

from structural and operational point of view through capacity building of staff and officials.

3.2.15 Composite Water Management Index

NITI Aayog has come up with the Composite Water Management Index as an useful tool to assess and improve the performance in efficient management of water resources. The Index:

This index is an attempt to inspire States and UTs towards efficient and optimal utilization of water and recycling.

The index comprises of nine parameters and 28 indicators. These include various aspects of ground water, restoration of water bodies, irrigation, farm

practices, drinking water, policy and governance. For the purposes of analysis, the reporting states were divided into two special groups – ‘North

Eastern and Himalayan states’ and ‘Other States’, to account for the different hydrological conditions across these groups.

Gujarat has ranked as the top state in composite water management in the country followed

by Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra

3.2.16 Odisha beach to get ‘Blue Flag’ tag

The Chandrabhaga beach on the Konark coast of Odisha will be the first in Asia to get the Blue Flag certification. Highlights:

It is the tag given to environment-friendly and clean beaches, equipped with amenities of international standards for tourists.

Standards to get blue flag tag: The Environment Ministry embarked on the Blue Flag project in December 2017. To achieve the Blue Flag standards, a beach must be plastic-free and equipped with a waste

management system. Clean water should be available for tourists, apart from international amenities. The beach should have facilities for studying the environmental impact around the area, he

said.




4. BIODIVERSITY

4.1 Diversity

4.1.1 Biodiversity in India

As many as 539 new species of plants and animals were discovered by scientists and taxonomists in the country in 2017

Highlights: The biodiversity in the country recorded another 263 species with 174 new records of animals

and 89 of plants found. The number of discoveries of sub-species and varieties takes the number of floral discoveries

to 352. The Western Ghats and the Himalayas are home to most of the plant and animal discoveries. Among the States, Kerala recorded the highest number of discoveries 66 species, sub-species

and varieties of plants and 52 species of animals. Tamil Nadu recorded 31 new species of animals and 24 species, sub-species and varieties of

plants. West Bengal, which has both Himalayan and coastal ecosystems, recorded 27 discoveries in

categories of plants and 45 discoveries of animal species.

4.1.2 GM mustard

The Centre has demanded more tests for genetically modified mustard, a year after clearing the crop for “commercial cultivation.” Background:

GEAC had initially cleared the GM crop for commercial cultivation, now backtracked and demanded more tests and additional data on honeybees and other pollinators and on soil microbial diversity.

Concerns: GM mustard will require almost double the quantity of fertiliser and water. The movement of genes from GM plants to conventional crops, posing indirect threats to food

safety and security. GM mustard can affect honeybees directly and indirectly

GEAC: Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee is apex body under Environment Ministry for

regulating manufacturing, use, import, export and storage of hazardous microorganisms or genetically engineered organisms (GMOs) and cells in the country.

It is also responsible for giving technical approval of proposals relating to release of GMOs and products including experimental field trials.

4.1.3 National Biodiversity award 2018

Arunachal Pradesh-based NGO Singchung Bugun Community Reserve (SBVCR) won the India Biodiversity Award 2018 in the “Conservation of wildlife species” category. Highlights:



It was awarded for its efforts to conserve rare critically endangered bird Bugun Liocichla. Singchung Bugun Community Reserve is 17 square km biodiversity hotspot in Arunachal

Pradesh. It is home to critically endangered bird species Bugun Liocichla, which is not reported

anywhere else in world. International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified Liocichla as Critically

Endangered (CR). There are only about 20-24 pairs which live in the area. About community reserves:

It is established under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. It enables any state government to declare community-owned forest area as “community

reserve” if locals are willing to participate in conservation efforts for same. Under it, community reserve receives same legal protection as National Parks and Wildlife

Sanctuaries.

4.2 Threats

4.2.1 Captive-bred vultures face drug problem

Vultures are vulnerable to chemicals such as diclofenac, present in the carcasses of cattle that were injected with the painkiller.

Vulture species in India: India hosts nine vulture species, five of them the highly endangered Gyps species. Assam is

home to six, including winter visitors from the Himalayas — the Himalayan and Eurasian griffons.

About Diclofenac: Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) taken or applied to reduce inflammation and as an analgesic reducing pain in certain conditions. Diclofenac for veterinary use was banned in 2005.

4.2.2 Threats to Himalayan biodiversity

The Himalayan protected areas includes 20 national parks, 71 wildlife sanctuaries, five tiger reserves, four biosphere reserves and seven Ramsar Wetland sites

Highlights: It includes 133 vertebrate species of the region cited as threatened in the IUCN Red List. It includes 43 species of mammals like the critically endangered Pygmy Hog, the Namdapha

flying squirrel and the endangered Snow leopard, the Red Panda and the Kashmir Gray Langur Of the 940 bird species found in the Indian Himalayas, 39 are endemic to the region. Fifty-two species of birds are also in the threatened category like the critically endangered

White-Bellied Heron and Siberian crane and vulnerable species like the Black Necked crane and the Indian Spotted eagle, among others.

Climate change is the major threat as far as mammals and birds are concerned. Habitat loss due to land use change, illegal wildlife trade, forest fires and increasing

anthropogenic activities pose threats to this Himayalan biodiversity, the publication underlines.




4.2.3 Invasive Species

Import of exotic fish

The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has urged the government to come up with quarantine facilities at major seaports and airports.

An ornamental species known as a ‘tank cleaner’ of aquariums, has spread to almost all freshwater ecosystems and outnumbers other native fish by feeding on their larvae and competing with them for food resources.

Several studies have disclosed the occurrence of exotic ornamental fish in many inland aquatic systems, including biodiversity-sensitive areas such as the Western Ghats

Invasive aphid in Kashmir Valley

The brown peach aphid – an insect that attacks temperate fruit trees – has been recorded here for the first time in Kashmir Valley, the fruit bowl of India

Invasive alien plants

The Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) reveals that more plants have started to show its invasive nature in the forest areas of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, including Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (WWS), a major habitat of Asiatic elephants and tigers in the country. Exotic Species: Animals and plant species introduced from other countries and which are not otherwise found locally are termed exotic. These introduced or exotic species can adversely affect the ecosystem. They pose serious threats to native species

4.2.4 Threats to Harrier birds

Harrier birds, a migratory raptor species that regularly visits vast swathes of India, are declining. Threats:

The loss of grasslands, either to urbanisation or to agriculture Excessive use of pesticides in farms in and around the roosting sites. The pesticides kills

grasshoppers, the harriers’ primary prey. About Harrier bird:

Every winter, several species of harrier birds travel thousands of kilometres to escape frigid Central Asia for the grasslands of the subcontinent.

India has one of the largest roosting sites in the world for Pallid Harriers and Montagu’s Harriers.

Globally, of the 16 harrier species, two are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

4.2.5 Eight avian species declared “extinct” in new study

Scientists have declared eight species of birds to be extinct in what are being seen as the first avian extinctions of the 21st century. Highlights:

These include Spix’s macaw, the Alagoas foliage-gleaner, the cryptic treehunter, the Pernambuco pygmy-owl, the poo-uli, or black-faced honeycreeper and the glaucous macaw.

Five of these new extinctions have occurred in South America.



Four out of the eight species declared extinct belong to Brazil. The BirdLife International assessed 51 species judged “critically endangered” on the

International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) “Red List”. About Birdlife International:

BirdLife International (formerly the International Council for Bird Preservation) is a global partnership of conservation organisations that strives to conserve birds, their habitats, and global biodiversity.

It is the world's largest partnership of conservation organisations, with over 120 partner organisations.

IUCN Red List

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species is the world's most comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological species.

It uses a set of criteria to evaluate the extinction risk of thousands of species and subspecies




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