Table of Contents:
- What is the environment?
- What is Environmental policy?
- Environment policy of India-
- Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
- Animal Welfare Board of India
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
- Project Tiger ( Tiger Protection Program ) of 1973
- Water ( Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974
- CPCB ( Centre Pollution Control Board)
- Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981
- Environment Protection Act, 1986
- Project Elephant -1992
- National Tiger Conservation Authority
- National Ganga River Basin Authority, 2009
- National Green Tribunal- 2010
- Project Cheetah, Started in January 2022.
- Environment policy at the International level:
- 1922: Birdlife Internation( earlier it was called International Council for Bird Preservation)
- 1937: Wetland International
- 1961: World Wildlife Fund for nature
- 1964: IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature )
- 1972: UNESCO
- 1973: CITES
- 1976: TRAFFIC ( the wildlife trade monitoring network)
- 1985: Vienna Convention for the Protection of the ozone layer
- 1987: Montreal protocol on a substance that depletes the ozone layer. ( Ban of CFCs)
- 1989: Basel Convention on Transboundary Movement of Hazardous waste and their disposal.
- 1992: Convention on biological diversity, Nairobi
- 1992: Global Environment Facility
- 1992: Rio-Earth Summit
- 1994: The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
- 1997: Kyoto Protocol
- 2001: Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
- 2008: UN-REDD + Programme
- 2008: Global Climate Change Alliance
- 2010: Green Climate Fund
- 2012: Rio + 20 Conference
- 2013: Minamata Convention on Mercury
- 2016: Kigali Agreement
- Questions-Answer ( Q &A):
- Comment on the impact of environmental education on quality of life. (UPSC 2015, 150 words, 10 marks)
- Describe the National Biodiversity Authority. (UPPSC 2019, GS-II)
- MCQ and QUIZ
What is the environment?:
In geography, the environment refers to the physical surroundings, including natural elements like landforms, water bodies, climate, vegetation, and ecosystems, as well as human-made components such as buildings and infrastructure.
The combination of surrounding things, which includes biotic and abiotic things, is called the environment.
There are two major components of the environment;
- Biotics components or living organisms such as forests, animals, microorganisms, etc.
- Abiotic components or non-living things such as land, air, water, light, sound, and energy.
Due to increasing human activities, the degradation of the environment is happening; to prevent the degradation, environmental policy is needed.
What is Environmental policy?
Environmental policy refers to a set of principles, laws, regulations, and guidelines that governments, organizations, and institutions establish to manage and protect the environment.
These policies address various issues such as pollution control, natural resource conservation, waste management, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation. Environmental policies are designed to balance economic, social, and environmental factors to ensure the well-being of current and future generations.
In India, the Ministry of Environment and Forest is the nodal agency of environmental policy. National environment policy 2006 is the latest guiding principle of the environment in India; as per policy both the state and the public are responsible to keep the environment healthy.
Environment policy of India:
The following are some prominent environmental policies of India:
Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act, 1960:
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, of 1960 is an Indian legislation aimed at preventing cruelty towards animals and ensuring their well-being. The act outlines guidelines and regulations for the humane treatment of animals, and it addresses issues related to their transportation, care, and protection from unnecessary pain or suffering.
The act empowers authorities ( governmental agencies like police) to take action against those who violate these regulations and engage in acts of cruelty towards animals.
This act promotes animal welfare and ethical treatment of animals within India.
Animal Welfare Board of India:
The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) is a statutory body established in 1962. It was established under the provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960.
Its main objective is to promote animal welfare and prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals. The board advises the central and state governments on matters related to animal welfare, formulates policies and guidelines, and works towards creating awareness and sensitivity towards animal rights.
The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) plays a crucial role in ensuring the implementation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and fostering a culture of compassion and care for animals in the country.
The Headquarters of The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) is in Haryana (Earlier Hq: Chennai)
Late Rukmini Devi Arundale ( Humanitarian) is known as an eminent personality in The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI).
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:
The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 is an Indian legislation enacted to protect and conserve wildlife and their habitats. The primary objective of the act is to prevent the illegal hunting, poaching, and trading of endangered and protected species of animals and plants.
The act classifies different species into different schedules, each with varying degrees of protection.
It also establishes protected areas like national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation reserves to safeguard ecosystems and biodiversity.
This act empowers authorities to take action against offenses related to wildlife conservation and outlines penalties for violations.
Overall, the Wildlife Protection Act plays a crucial role in preserving India's rich biodiversity and promoting sustainable wildlife management.
Project Tiger 1973:
Project Tiger is a conservation initiative launched in India in 1973 with the aim of protecting and preserving the endangered Bengal tiger and its habitats. The project was initiated to increase tiger population in India and address habitat degradation and poaching.
Under Project Tiger, specific tiger reserves were established in various parts of the country to provide a safe environment for tigers and other wildlife.
Under Project Tiger, Tiger Reserves are notified to protect the natural habitats and ecosystems where tigers live. The project focuses on conservation measures, habitat management, anti-poaching efforts, and community involvement.
Project Tiger has played a significant role in the increasing tiger populations in India and has become a model for wildlife conservation worldwide.
Water ( Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974:
The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974 was enacted to prevent and control water pollution in the country. The act was introduced to address the growing concerns about the degradation of water quality due to industrial, domestic, and agricultural activities.
The main objectives of the act are to:
- It aims to prevent and control water pollution by regulating and monitoring the discharge of pollutants into water bodies.
- It aims to establish standards for the quality of water to be maintained in various water sources.
- It also established State Pollution Control Boards and Central Pollution Control Boards to implement the provisions of this act. It grants powers to these pollution control boards to issue directions and guidelines for pollution control measures.
The Water Act empowers authorities to take legal action against those who violate its provisions, including polluters who discharge pollutants into water bodies without proper treatment.
CPCB ( Centre pollution control Board):
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change of the Government of India. Established in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, the CPCB is responsible for coordinating environmental protection efforts and pollution control activities at the national level.
The key functions of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) include:
- Formulating and implementing strategies for pollution control and environmental management.
- Setting and enforcing standards for air and water quality. Monitoring of air quality includes pollutants air like Carbon Monoxide, Ozone, Sulphur Dioxide( So2), Nitrogen Dioxide( No2), PM2.5, PM10, Lead(Pb), and Ammonia(NH3).
- Monitoring and assessing environmental quality through various programs and initiatives.
- Providing technical assistance and guidance to state pollution control boards.
- Conducting research and promoting research activities related to pollution control and environmental conservation.
Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981:
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, of 1981, this act was enacted to address the increasing concerns about the degradation of air quality due to industrial, vehicular, and other sources of pollution.
The Air Act provides a legal framework for preventing, controlling, and ablating air pollution. It allows authorities to take action against individuals, industries, and institutions that violate its provisions. The act plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health, protecting the environment, and ensuring the availability of clean and breathable air.
Environment Protection Act, 1986:
Project Elephant -1992:
Project Elephant is a conservation initiative launched in India in 1992 with the aim of protecting and conserving the Asian elephant and their habitats. The project was initiated due to the declining population of Asian elephants and the need to address habitat loss, human-elephant conflict, and poaching.
National Tiger Conservation Authority:
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a statutory body in India that was established in 2005 under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, of 1972. The primary objective of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is to ensure the conservation and protection of tigers and their habitats in the country.
Key functions and responsibilities of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) include:
Implementation of Project Tiger: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) oversees the implementation of Project Tiger, which aims to protect and conserve tiger populations and their habitats in designated tiger reserves across India.
Monitoring Tiger Reserves: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) monitors the status of tiger populations, their habitats, and overall ecosystem health within the designated tiger reserves.
Strengthening Protection Measures: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) works to strengthen anti-poaching efforts, improve law enforcement, and enhance infrastructure within tiger reserves to minimize threats to tigers.
Ecosystem Management: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) focuses on maintaining the integrity of the ecosystems within tiger reserves and ensuring the well-being of other species that coexist with tigers.
Coordination and Collaboration: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) collaborates with state governments, wildlife authorities, and various stakeholders to develop and implement effective conservation strategies.
Established in 2005 as the statutory body after the recommendation of the Tiger Task Force
National Ganga River Basin Authority: ( 2009):
The National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) was a statutory body in India established in 2009 under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, of 1986. The primary goal of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) was to oversee and coordinate efforts for the conservation and rejuvenation of the Ganga River, one of India's most important and sacred rivers.
The National Ganga River Basin Authority ( NGRBA) was responsible for formulating policies and strategies to ensure the sustainable management and development of the Ganga River basin.
2010: National Green Tribunal:
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a specialized judicial body in India that was established in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) deals specifically with cases related to environmental protection and the conservation of natural resources. It provides a forum for hearing and resolving disputes related to environmental issues.
Key features and functions of the National Green Tribunal include:
Jurisdiction: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has jurisdiction over matters related to environmental laws, including violations and disputes involving air and water pollution, biodiversity conservation, forest protection, waste management, and more.
Judicial Authority: The NGT has the powers of a civil court and is headed by a chairperson, who is a retired judge of the Supreme Court of India or a Chief Justice of a High Court.
Faster Dispute Resolution: One of the aims of the NGT is to provide an expedited process for resolving environmental cases, thereby promoting quicker access to justice in environmental matters.
Expertise: The NGT consists of experts in the fields of law, environmental science, and related disciplines, ensuring that decisions are based on sound scientific and legal principles.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) plays a significant role in addressing environmental concerns, ensuring compliance with environmental laws, and promoting sustainable development. It provides a platform for affected individuals, communities, and organizations to raise environmental issues and seek redressal for environmental damage.
It ensures the Right to a healthy environment, construed as a part of the Right to life under Article 21.
Project Cheetah-Started in January-2022:
Cheetah is the only major carnivore animal that went extinct in India in the year 1952 due to hunting and habitat loss. The government of India was planning to bring Cheetahs from Africa to India since 2009. However, "Project Cheetah" was launched in January 2022 by environment minister Bhupender Yadav, with the aim to reintroduce Cheetahs in Kuno National Park. For more about; "Project Cheetah" in India
Environment policy at the International level;
1922: Birdlife Internation( earlier it was called International Council for Bird Preservation):
BirdLife International is a global partnership of conservation organizations dedicated to the protection and conservation of birds and their habitats. Founded in 1922 as the International Council for Bird Preservation (ICBP), it later became BirdLife International in 1993. The organization's headquarters are located in Cambridge, United Kingdom.
1937: Wetland International:
Wetlands International is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands. Founded in 1954, the organization works to safeguard wetland ecosystems and the biodiversity they support, as well as to promote their importance for people and nature.
Wetlands International focuses on the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of wetlands around the world, including marshes, swamps, peatlands, and coastal areas.
The organization recognizes the ecological significance of wetlands and their role in supporting diverse species, providing water resources, mitigating climate change, and offering livelihood opportunities for local communities.
HQ: Wageningen, Netherland
Work: Wetlands and biodiversity
Partner of Ramsar convention
1961: World Wildlife Fund for Nature:
The World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) is a global conservation organization dedicated to the protection of nature, wildlife, and the environment. Established in 1961, World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) operates in over 100 countries and works on a wide range of issues related to biodiversity, sustainability, and the well-being of the earth.
HQ; Gland Switzerland
Six ambition goals:
- Climate; climate-resilient and zero-carbon world. The organization addresses climate change by promoting renewable energy, sustainable land use, and policies that reduce carbon emissions.
- Food; doubling food availability
- Forest; Conserve the world's important forest
- Freshwater; secure freshwater
- Ocean; safeguard a healthy ocean
- wildlife; World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) focuses on the conservation of diverse species and their habitats, working to prevent species extinction and maintain healthy ecosystems.
1964: IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature ):
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global organization that is widely recognized for its work in the field of nature conservation and sustainability. Established in 1948, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) brings together governments, NGOs, scientists, and other stakeholders to address environmental challenges and promote the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources.
Key features and activities of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) include:
Red List of Threatened Species: International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) maintains the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, which assesses the conservation status of various species worldwide and helps identify those at risk of extinction.
Conservation Strategies: International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) develops and promotes strategies and guidelines for the conservation of ecosystems, species, and habitats.
Global Partnerships: The organization collaborates with governments, NGOs, businesses, and indigenous communities to implement conservation initiatives and influence policy decisions.
Protected Areas: International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) provides expertise in establishing and managing protected areas to safeguard critical habitats and ecosystems.
Sustainable Development: International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) focuses on integrating conservation efforts with sustainable development practices to balance human needs with environmental protection.
Knowledge Sharing: International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) facilitates the exchange of scientific knowledge, data, and best practices among conservation professionals and organizations.
1972: UNESCO:
World Heritage Convention is also known as UNESCO ( United Nations Education Scientific world heritage). Sites are designated for having cultural, historical, scientific, or other forms of significance.
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations. It was established in 1945 and is headquartered in Paris, France. UNESCO's primary mission is to promote international collaboration in the fields of education, science, culture, and communication. It seeks to contribute to peace and human development through the advancement of knowledge, cultural understanding, and the protection of heritage.
Key features and areas of focus for UNESCO include:
Education: UNESCO works to provide access to quality education for all, promote literacy, and support educational research and policies worldwide.
Science: The organization encourages scientific cooperation, research, and innovation to address global challenges and promote sustainable development.
Culture: UNESCO aims to safeguard cultural heritage, promote cultural diversity, and foster creativity through initiatives like the World Heritage Sites program.
Communication and Information: UNESCO supports access to information and knowledge, as well as freedom of expression and media development.
Intercultural Dialogue: The organization promotes mutual understanding and dialogue among different cultures, religions, and societies to foster peace and tolerance.
Sustainable Development: UNESCO contributes to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals through its work in education, science, culture, and communication.
World Heritage Sites: UNESCO's World Heritage Sites program identifies and protects cultural and natural sites of exceptional value, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
1973; CITES:
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora(CITES) is an international agreement aimed at ensuring that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora(CITES) was established in 1973 and is administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Key features and objectives of CITES include:
Regulation of Trade: CITES regulates the international trade in species listed in its appendices. Species are categorized into three appendices based on the level of protection they require, with Appendix I offering the highest level of protection.
Conservation: CITES aims to prevent over-exploitation of species due to international trade, ensuring their survival in the wild and maintaining biodiversity.
Sustainable Use: CITES recognizes that trade can be a tool for conservation if it's conducted in a sustainable manner, supporting the livelihoods of local communities.
International Cooperation: CITES promotes collaboration among countries to effectively regulate and monitor trade in endangered species.
Endangered Species Protection: Through its regulatory framework, CITES has played a role in protecting numerous species from the impacts of unsustainable trade, including elephants, rhinos, tigers, and many more.
1976; TRAFFIC( the wildlife trade monitoring network)
TRAFFIC is a wildlife trade monitoring network that works to combat illegal and unsustainable trade in wild animals and plants. It was established in 1976 as a joint program of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). TRAFFIC operates globally and aims to ensure that trade in wildlife is legal, sustainable, and does not threaten the survival of species or damage ecosystems.
1985: Vienna Convention for the Protection of the ozone layer:
The Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer is an international treaty that was adopted in 1985 in Vienna, Austria. The convention is one of the key agreements aimed at addressing the depletion of the ozone layer in the Earth's stratosphere. It serves as a framework for international cooperation in protecting the ozone layer and minimizing its depletion.
The convention aims to regulate and ultimately eliminate the production and consumption of substances that are responsible for depleting the ozone layer, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons.
1987; Montreal protocol on a substance that depletes the ozone layer. Ban CFCs.
The Montreal Protocol was adopted in 1987 in Montreal, Canada. It is designed to address the depletion of the Earth's ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). The protocol is a result of the international community's efforts to protect the ozone layer and mitigate the harmful effects of ODS on human health and the environment.
This protocol outlines specific schedules for the gradual phase-out of various ozone-depleting substances, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform.
1989: Basel convention; Transboundary movement of Hazardous waste and their disposal.
The Basel Convention was adopted in 1989 in Basel, Switzerland. The convention aims to regulate and control the movement of hazardous wastes across international borders to prevent their improper disposal, reduce environmental pollution, and protect human health.
Key features and objectives of the Basel Convention include:
Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes: The convention seeks to ensure that hazardous wastes are managed in an environmentally sound manner, both within countries and when they are exported to other countries.
Prior Informed Consent (PIC): The convention introduces the concept of "prior informed consent," requiring that the exporting country obtains the consent of the receiving country before shipping hazardous wastes.
Technical Assistance and Capacity Building: The convention supports the provision of technical assistance and capacity building to developing countries to improve their capacity to manage hazardous wastes.
The Basel Convention aims to prevent the dumping of hazardous wastes in developing countries that lack the infrastructure and regulations to manage them safely. It plays a crucial role in international efforts to address the environmental and health risks associated with improper handling and disposal of hazardous wastes.
1992: Convention on biological diversity; Nairobi:
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an international treaty adopted in 1992 during the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), also known as the Earth Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is a significant global instrument for addressing issues related to biodiversity conservation, sustainable use of biological resources, and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources.
Aichi Biodiversity Targets: In 2010, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) adopted a set of 20 global biodiversity targets known as the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, aimed at addressing various aspects of biodiversity loss by 2020.
1992: Global Environment Facility:
The Global Environment Facility (GEF) is an international financial mechanism that provides funding to support projects and programs aimed at addressing global environmental challenges. It was established in 1991 as a partnership between various international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Bank, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Key features and objectives of the Global Environment Facility include:
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
- Sustainable Land Management
- Chemicals and Waste Management
- International Waters
- Ozone layer
- Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening
HQ: Washington
GEF supports the financing of the following:
- UNCBD-United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity
- UNFCCC-United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
- UNCCD-United Nations Convention to combat desertification
- POPs-Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants
- Minamata Convention on Mercury
1992: Rio-Earth Summit:
The Rio Earth Summit, officially known as the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), was a historic event held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in June 1992. The summit brought together world leaders, government officials, NGOs, and representatives from various sectors to discuss and address pressing global environmental and development challenges.
Key outcomes and features of the Rio Earth Summit include:
Agenda 21: The conference produced a comprehensive plan of action called Agenda 21, which outlined strategies for sustainable development in the 21st century. It covered a wide range of issues, including poverty, biodiversity conservation, climate change, and more.
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): The Rio Earth Summit led to the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity, an international treaty aimed at conserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable use of biological resources, and ensuring the fair and equitable sharing of benefits.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): The summit paved the way for negotiations that led to the adoption of the UNFCCC, the framework for international cooperation on addressing climate change.
Declaration on Environment and Development: The Rio Declaration outlined principles for sustainable development, including the precautionary principle, common but differentiated responsibilities, and the right to a healthy environment.
Forest Principles: The Forest Principles were adopted as a non-legally binding instrument to guide sustainable forest management and conservation.
UNCCD-United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification:
The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is an international treaty adopted in 1994 to address the issue of land degradation and desertification, particularly in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas. The convention aims to combat the negative impacts of land degradation on ecosystems, communities, and sustainable development.
The UNCCD focuses on addressing land degradation caused by factors such as deforestation, overgrazing, soil erosion, and improper land use
HQ: Bonn, Germany
The 14th COP conference of the party to UNCCD was held in New Delhi; from 2 to 13 September
Theme: Manual for gender-responsive land degradation neutrality transformative project and programs
1997: Kyoto Protocol:
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that was adopted in 1997 in Kyoto, Japan, as an extension of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The protocol aims to address the issue of global warming and climate change by setting binding targets for developed countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
Six Gases are included in Kyoto Protocol namely Co2-Carbon Dioxide, Nitrous oxide-N20, Sulphur Hexafluoride-SF6, Methane (CH4), HFC (Hydrofluorocarbon), and PFCs (Perfluorocarbon)
2001: Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants:
The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) is an international treaty adopted in 2001 in Stockholm, Sweden. The convention aims to address the global environmental and health risks posed by certain persistent organic pollutants, which are chemicals that persist in the environment, accumulate in living organisms, and can have serious adverse effects on human health and ecosystems.
The Stockholm Convention contributes to international efforts to protect human health and the environment from the adverse impacts of persistent organic pollutants. By targeting the most hazardous substances, the convention helps to minimize their global distribution and accumulation, thus safeguarding both present and future generations.
2004: The International Treaty on Plant genetic resources for Food and Agriculture( Seed Treaty / Sustainable uses of plant genetic resources in line with biodiversity act)
2008: UN-REDD + Programme;
The UN-REDD Programme (United Nations Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries) is a collaborative initiative aimed at supporting developing countries in their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. The program was launched in 2008 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Head Quarter: Geneva, Switzerland
2008: Global Climate Change Alliance:
The Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) is a European Union (EU) initiative that supports developing countries in their efforts to address climate change and its associated challenges. The initiative is to help mainly small island states and least developing countries.
The initiative was launched in 2007 to help vulnerable countries adapt to the impacts of climate change and integrate climate resilience into their development strategies.
2010: Green Climate Fund:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is a financial mechanism established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to support developing countries in their efforts to address climate change and promote sustainable development.
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was established in 2010 and became operational in 2015. Its primary goal is to assist developing countries in reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change.
2012: Rio + 20 Conference:
The Rio+20 Conference, also known as the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD), was a major international event held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in June 2012. The conference marked the 20th anniversary of the Earth Summit held in the same city in 1992 and aimed to assess progress in the implementation of sustainable development goals and address new and emerging challenges.
Key outcomes and features of the Rio+20 Conference include:
The Future We Want: The conference produced an outcome document titled "The Future We Want," which reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development, poverty eradication, and the protection of the environment.
Green Economy: The conference emphasized the concept of a green economy as a means to achieve sustainable development while recognizing the importance of poverty eradication and social inclusion.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The Rio+20 Conference paved the way for the development of the Sustainable Development Goals, a set of global goals to address various dimensions of sustainable development.
Strengthening Institutional Frameworks: The conference recognized the need to strengthen the institutional framework for sustainable development, including the possibility of creating a sustainable development council within the United Nations.
International Environmental Governance: Discussions at the conference focused on improving international environmental governance to enhance coordination and effectiveness in addressing global environmental challenges.
Ocean Protection: The conference highlighted the importance of protecting the world's oceans and committed to taking action to address marine pollution and overfishing.
2013: Minamata Convention on Mercury :
The Minamata Convention on Mercury is an international treaty aimed at addressing the global issue of mercury pollution and its adverse effects on human health and the environment. The convention was adopted in 2013 in Minamata, Japan, named after the city that suffered a severe mercury poisoning incident in the mid-20th century due to industrial pollution.
2016: Kigali Agreement; ozone depletion substance; ban the production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
Question.
Comment on the impact of environmental education on quality of life.
(UPSC 2015, 150 words, 10 marks)
Answer.
Environmental education has a profound impact on the quality of life for individuals, communities, and society as a whole. It equips people with knowledge, skills, and attitudes that empower them to make informed decisions, adopt sustainable practices, and contribute to a healthier environment.
Here are some key ways in which environmental education influences quality of life:
Awareness and Understanding: Environmental education increases awareness and understanding of the natural world, ecosystems, and the interconnectedness of all life forms. This knowledge fosters a deeper knowledge of the environment and encourages responsible behavior.
Sustainable Lifestyle Choices: Environmental education promotes sustainable practices such as waste reduction, energy conservation, sustainable consumption, and responsible use of natural resources. These practices lead to healthier living and contribute to reducing ecological footprints.
Health and Well-being: A cleaner environment leads to improved air and water quality, which in turn has positive effects on public health. By understanding the links between environmental conditions and health, people are more likely to make choices that benefit their well-being.
Community Engagement: Environmental education encourages community involvement in environmental protection and restoration initiatives. Engaging in local projects enhances community cohesion, builds social networks, and contributes to a sense of pride and ownership.
Empowerment: Knowledge gained through environmental education empowers individuals to participate in decision-making processes that affect their environment. Informed citizens can advocate for policies that promote sustainability and hold governments and industries accountable for responsible practices.
Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: Environmental education equips individuals with the understanding of climate change impacts and the tools to mitigate its effects. This includes supporting renewable energy, advocating for climate policies, and adopting strategies to adapt to changing conditions.
Cultural and Spiritual Enrichment: Environmental education often emphasizes cultural connections to nature and fosters a sense of responsibility for protecting cultural heritage and sacred sites. This enriches cultural identity and spirituality.
Youth Empowerment: Young people who receive environmental education are more likely to become future leaders and change-makers in sustainability efforts. Their actions can shape a more sustainable future.
Economic Benefits: Environmental education promotes green job opportunities, such as careers in renewable energy, conservation, and sustainable agriculture, contributing to economic growth and stability.
Overall, environmental education enhances the quality of life by fostering ecological literacy, inspiring responsible behavior, and encouraging individuals to practice sustainable practices.
Question.
Describe the National Biodiversity Authority.
(UPPSC 2019, GS-II Mains)
Answer.
The Biological Diversity Act, of 2002 made a three-tier structure to regulate access to biological resources:
- The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)
- The State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs)
- The Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) (at local level)
The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) is an autonomous statutory body established in 2003 by the Government of India under the provisions of the Biological Diversity Act, of 2002. It aims to implement the objective of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) 1992. The Headquarters of the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
The primary objective of the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) is to regulate access to biological resources and associated knowledge in India, to protect the country's biodiversity, and to ensure equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of biological resources.
Structure of National Biodiversity Authority (NBA):
- A Chairperson.
- Three ex officio members: one representing the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and two representing the Environment and Forests Ministry.
- Seven ex-officio members: Representatives from Agricultural Research and Education, Biotechnology, Ocean Development, Agriculture and Cooperation, Indian Systems of Medicine and Homoeopathy, Science and Technology, and Scientific and Industrial Research.
- Five non-official members: having special knowledge and experience in the required matters.
Key functions and responsibilities of the National Biodiversity Authority include:
Regulating Access to Biological Resources: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) oversees the access to biological resources, such as plants, animals, microorganisms, and their genetic material, for research, commercial, or any other purpose. It aims to ensure that access to these resources should be done in a sustainable and equitable manner, on the basis of the traditional rights of local communities and indigenous people.
Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS): The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) identifies and notifies Biodiversity Heritage Sites, which are areas of significant biodiversity value. It helps in conserving and protecting these sites to maintain biodiversity and prevent unauthorized exploitation.
Benefit Sharing: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) ensures that the benefits arising from the utilization of biological resources are shared fairly and equitably with the stakeholders, especially the local communities and indigenous people who have conserved these resources for generations.
Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs): The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) facilitates the establishment of Biodiversity Management Committees at the local level. These committees play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable use by promoting people's participation in decision-making.
Biodiversity Registers: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) promotes the creation and maintenance of Biodiversity Registers, which are comprehensive databases of local biological resources and associated knowledge. These registers help in documenting traditional knowledge related to biodiversity.
Awareness and Education: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) conducts awareness programs and educational campaigns to sensitize the public about the importance of biodiversity conservation and the equitable sharing of benefits.
The National Biodiversity Authority plays a vital role in safeguarding India's rich biodiversity, preserving traditional knowledge, and ensuring that the utilization of biological resources contributes to sustainable development while respecting the rights of local communities and indigenous people.
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