Environmental Science – Module 1 (All 8 Important 6-Mark Questions with
Answers)
1. Define Environmental Science and explain its interdisciplinary nature.
Environmental Science is the systematic study of our environment and how humans depend on and influence it. It
focuses on solving problems like pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change. It is interdisciplinary as it includes
natural sciences (biology, chemistry, physics), social sciences (economics, sociology, political science), and
humanities (ethics, history, culture). Hence, it uses all fields to create sustainable solutions.
2. Explain the major themes of Environmental Science.
The major themes are: (1) Population growth – pressure on resources; (2) Food systems & water scarcity –
demand rising; (3) Energy demand & pollution – fossil fuel dependence; (4) Biodiversity protection – maintaining
ecological balance; (5) Climate change – most urgent global issue; (6) Sustainable development – meeting current
needs without harming future generations.
3. Describe the impact of human activities on the environment.
Human activities like deforestation, industrialization, overuse of energy, and urbanization cause air and water
pollution, global warming, and biodiversity loss. Such uncontrolled activities disturb Earth's natural balance.
Adopting sustainable practices is essential to maintain ecological stability.
4. Discuss the causes and effects of climate change.
Causes: Overuse of fossil fuels, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions (CO■, CH■). Effects: Global
temperature rise (2–6°C by 2100), melting polar ice, sea-level rise, extreme weather, and biodiversity loss.
Solutions: Renewable energy, reforestation, and international agreements like Paris Accord.
5. Explain the difference between developed and developing countries in resource use.
Developed nations (18% population) use 88% of global resources and produce 75% of waste (e.g., USA, Japan).
Developing nations (82% population) use 12% of resources (e.g., India, Brazil). Developed countries have high
energy use, while developing countries face scarcity but lower pollution levels.
6. Write short notes on Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement.
Kyoto Protocol (1992): Extended UNFCCC and committed industrial nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Paris Agreement (2015): Global treaty on climate mitigation, adaptation, and finance. Goal is to limit warming below
2°C. Both agreements encourage nations to adopt renewable energy and sustainable policies.
7. Describe the global environmental problems and their consequences.
Air pollution – 92% people breathe polluted air, 4.5 million die yearly. Soil degradation – 33% degraded, could
reach 90% by 2050. Water scarcity – affects 4 billion people yearly. Fossil fuel overuse and melting ice raise sea
levels and cause global disasters (e.g., Jakarta relocation).
8. What is sustainability? Why is it important for the future?
Sustainability means using natural resources wisely to meet current needs without harming future generations. It
ensures clean air, water, and biodiversity, reduces pollution, supports renewable energy, and maintains ecological
balance for the long-term survival of humans and nature.