Adapting to the Complexities of Climate Change
Context: Mission Mausam, a recently approved weather preparedness initiative by the Indian government, aims to address the increasing unpredictability of weather events due to climate change. This initiative follows the National Monsoon Mission and seeks to improve weather forecasting and climate resilience through advanced technology and indigenous research. Relevance: General Studies Paper III (Environment and Climate Change) Mains […]
Loss and Damage Fund
Context: Following the devastating landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district, there has been significant discussion concerning the eligibility of subnational entities like districts to receive compensation through the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF), established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Loss and […]
India Leads in Global Plastic Pollution
A recent report in the journal Nature identifies India as the leading contributor to global plastic pollution, responsible for about one-fifth of all plastic waste worldwide. This significant share highlights the urgent need for enhanced recycling processes and innovations in waste management within the country to mitigate environmental impact. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions […]
Environmental Impact of Lithium Mining in Chile
Context: A recent study has revealed that the Atacama salt flat in Chile is experiencing land subsidence as a direct result of lithium mining activities. This highlights the environmental challenges associated with the extraction of lithium, a vital component in modern technologies. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Key findings of […]
NGT Fines Punjab Government for Waste Mismanagement
Context: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has recently levied a hefty fine of Rs 1,000 crore on the Punjab government due to its consistent failure to effectively manage the state’s solid and liquid waste. This punitive measure comes after multiple warnings were disregarded by the state authorities. The imposed fine must be paid to the […]
Impact of Reduced PM2.5 Pollution on Life Expectancy in India
Context: A recent study by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) highlights a positive correlation between improved air quality and life expectancy in India. Favorable weather conditions and a slight reduction in emissions from 2021 to 2022 led to decreased PM2.5 levels, which have, in turn, contributed to extending the average […]
Establishing a Carbon Market
Context: In her Budget speech, the Finance Minister indicated that industries with high pollution levels, such as iron, steel, and aluminium, will need to meet specific emission targets. She stated, “A roadmap will be developed to transition ‘hard-to-abate’ industries from energy efficiency targets to emission targets. Regulations will be introduced to shift these industries from the […]
Conservation Efforts for Horseshoe Crabs in India
Context: The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), in collaboration with the Odisha Forest Department, has initiated a project to tag Horseshoe Crabs. This initiative aims to preserve this ancient species by tagging hundreds of crabs to study their population patterns and identify potential threats to their survival. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Horseshoe Crabs […]
Alarming Environmental Decline in the Aravallis
Context: A recent scientific study has exposed the severe environmental repercussions of ongoing land use changes in the Aravallis. The study reveals that the continuous destruction of these hills is causing significant biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and a decline in vegetation cover, signaling an urgent need for comprehensive conservation strategies to reverse these damaging trends. […]
India’s Ethanol Blending Initiative Faces Challenges
Context: India is progressing towards its ambitious goal of blending 20% of petrol with ethanol by 2025-26, aiming to enhance energy security and reduce carbon emissions. However, this initiative is not without its challenges. Concerns persist regarding the fuel efficiency of existing vehicles when using blended fuel, which could potentially impact performance and maintenance. Relevance: […]