UNIT I

A. BASICS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Environment:
The term "environment" is the sum total of all the external forces, i.e., everything surrounding a living
organism, encompassing all the natural (biotic or living) and non-natural (abiotic or non-living) conditions
and factors that influence the life, nature, behavior and the growth, development and maturation of living
organisms.
This includes the physical surroundings like air, water, and land, as well as living elements such as plants,
animals, and other people, and even social and cultural factors that affect a person's development and life.
Environment also comprises various types of forces such as physical, intellectual, economic, political,
cultural, social, moral and emotional.

Interactions between the biotic and abiotic components lead to a functional ecosystem and sustainable life
on the planet earth. We get all the basic goods and services (clean air and water, food, fodder, medicines,
raw materials for the industries, tourism etc.) from the environment. It is a well-known fact that the
anthropogenic activities and unsustainable consumption of natural resources by the human race have
significantly damaged the environment and mother earth and the degradation is still going on at a fast pace.
Therefore, it is our responsibility to protect the environment from getting degraded and polluted.
Environmental education is indispensable to create environmental awareness which ultimately will lead to
environmental conservation.

1.2. Components of Environment:

The environment consists of four segments as under:
A. Lithosphere (Greek: Lithos means rock): Lithosphere is the outer mantle of the solid earth. It consists
of minerals occurring in the earth’s crusts and the soil e.g. minerals, organic matter, air and water.
(i) Various geological structures or landforms like high mountains, plateau, deep valleys and sea
beds make the surface of lithosphere uneven.
(ii) Various geological processes like weathering & erosion, volcanic eruptions, biogeochemical
cycles take place at the lithosphere. Different terrestrial ecosystems like forests, grasslands,
deserts etc. are found on the lithosphere.
(iii) Mount Everest is the highest point on the lithosphere.
B. Hydrosphere (Greek: Hydor means water): The Hydrosphere comprises all types of water resources
oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, streams, reservoir, polar icecaps, glaciers, and ground water.
(i) Nature’s 97% of the earth’s water supply is in the oceans,
(ii) About 2% of the water resources is locked in the polar icecaps and glaciers.
(iii) Only about 1% is available as fresh surface water-rivers, lakes streams, and ground water fit to be
used for human consumption and other uses.

C. Atmosphere (Greek: Atmos means vapor): The atmosphere implies the protective blanket of gases,
surrounding the earth:
(i) It saves the life from the hostile environment of outer space.
(ii) It absorbs most of the cosmic rays from outer space and a major portion of the electromagnetic radiation
from the sun.
(iii) It transmits ultraviolet, visible, near infrared radiation (300 to 2500 nm) and radio waves (0.14 to 40
m) while filtering out tissue-damaging ultraviolet waves below about 300 nm.

The atmosphere is composed of nitrogen and oxygen. Besides, argon, carbon dioxide, and trace gases.
Content of water vapor, density of the air mass and atmospheric pressure decreases rapidly with the increase
in altitude. The composition of dry air is as follows:

The layers of the atmosphere, from closest to Earth outward are as follows: TRUST ME IN THE EXAM
a) the Troposphere, where weather occurs (0-20 km in altitude above the earth).
b) the Stratosphere, which contains the protective ozone layer (~ 20-50 km in altitude).
c) the Mesosphere, where meteors burn up (~ 50-85 km in altitude).
d) the Ionosphere, a layer within the mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, where solar and cosmic
radiation creates electrically charged particles (ions and electrons) (~ 60 km-1,000 km in altitude).
e) the Thermosphere, where auroras appear and temperatures are extremely high (~ 85-690 km in altitude).
f) the Exosphere, the outermost layer where the atmosphere transitions into space, (~ 600-10,000 km in
altitude).

D. Biosphere (Greek: Bios means life): Biosphere indicates the sum of all living organisms, including
plants, animals, and microorganisms and their interactions with environment, namely, atmosphere,
hydrosphere and lithosphere.
1.3. Environmental Science
Environmental science is a multi-disciplinary scientific field that studies the interactions between physical,
chemical, and biological components of the environment and human society.
It can be characterized as a branch of study that is primarily concerned with environmental issues.
It integrates knowledge from natural sciences like biology, chemistry, and geology with social sciences and
humanities, such as economics, political science, and ethics, to understand and address environmental
challenges and human impacts on the planet.
It is a study related with the sources, reactions, transport, effect and fate of physical factors on biological
species in the air, water and soil and the various effects from human activity upon these.

[Link] between Environmental Science and Environmental Studies:

Environmental Studies: Environmental studies is multidisciplinary subject which studies about
various dimensions (scientific, social, cultural, economic, political etc.) of the environment, its issues and
challenges and tangible solutions in a holistic way. It studies the human-environment interaction and its
results at micro and macro level.
 Environmental Science strictly deals with the scientific aspects of the environment, its complex
problems and the tangible solutions whereas Environmental Studies, in addition to the scientific aspects,
also deals with the socio-economic, cultural, traditional, legislative and historical dimensions of the
environmental issues. For example, suppose a river is getting polluted due to discharge of untreated
wastewater into the river. The student of Environmental Science will observe the causes, physico-chemical
and biological changes within the river water, its effect on aquatic and adjoining ecosystem and scientific
mitigation measures for the river pollution. In addition to the above dimensions, Environmental Studies will
also observe the impact of the pollution on the nearby population, their livelihood and culture etc.

2. IMPORTANCE OF ENVIRONMENT STUDIES

The environment studies enlighten us about the importance of protection and conservation of our
planet, as well as the detrimental effects of pollution into the environment. At present a great number
of environment issues have grown in size and complexity day by day, threatening the survival of
mankind on earth. Numerous environmental issues have grown in scale, progressively complicating
the global system and endangering humanity’s existence on Earth.
The significance of environmental studies can be attributed to the following reasons:
a. Environment Issues Being of International Importance
It has been well recognized that environment issues like global warming and ozone depletion, acid rain,
marine pollution and biodiversity are not merely national issues but are global issues and hence must be
tackled with international efforts and cooperation.
b. Problems Cropped in The Wake of Development
Development, in its wake gave birth to Urbanization, Industrial Growth, Transportation Systems,
Agriculture and Housing etc. However, it has become phased out in the developed world. The North, to
cleanse their own environment has, fact fully, managed to move ‘dirty’ factories of South. When the West
developed, it did so perhaps in ignorance of the environmental impact of its activities. The environmental
consequences of development are not limited to specific regions but affect the entire world. Hence, it has
often come at the cost of environmental degradation.
c. Escalating Pollution Levels
The world’s population is on the rise and India, for instance, is home to a significant portion of the global
population. This puts immense pressure on natural resources, including land. Soil health problems, such as
nutrient deficiencies, soil salinity and degradation, have been recognized by agricultural experts.
d. Wise Development Planning
Survival and sustenance rely on the availability of resources. Therefore, any development plan should be
ecologically sound and synchronized with the natural cycles of the environment. Planning should priorities
environmental sustainability alongside economic development.
e. Need to Save Humanity from Extinction
It is of utmost importance to prevent the potential extinction of humanity due to activities that harm the
environment in the name of development. Striking a balance between development and environmental
protection is essential. It is mandatory upon us to save the humanity from extinction. Consequent to our
activities constricting the environment and depleting the biosphere, in the name of development.
g. Need for Wise Planning of Development
Our survival and sustenance depend. Resources withdraw, processing and use of the product have all to by
synchronized with the ecological cycles in any plan of development our actions should be planned
ecologically for the sustenance of the environment and development.
 h. Need for an Alternative Solution
It is essential, especially for developing countries to find alternative paths to an alternative goal towards
sustainable development. This involves setting goals for development that are environmentally responsible
and sustainable. Such a goal should be universal, transcending the division between the developing and
over-consumptive developed world. We need a goal as under:
(1) A goal, which ultimately is the true goal of development an environmentally sound and sustainable
development.
(2) A goal common to all citizens of our earth.
(3) A goal distant from the developing world in the manner it is from the over-consuming wasteful societies
of the “developed” world.

3. SCOPE OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

The multidisciplinary approach of the subject can be implemented in wide range of applications and fields
related to the environmental awareness, education and conservation. Hence, the subject has a vast scope
and the expert of the subject can serve in numerous ways in different spheres of the society. The field of
environmental studies encompasses a wide range of scopes, which are not only important for children but
also for individuals of all ages. These scopes can be summarized as follows:

i. Resource Awareness
Environmental studies foster awareness about both renewable and non-renewable resources in a particular
region. This involves assessing the available resources, their utilization patterns and the need to maintain a
balance for future generations.
ii. Ecological Understanding
It imparts knowledge about ecological systems and the cause-and-effect relationships within them.
iii. Biodiversity Awareness
Environmental studies provide essential information about the richness of biodiversity and the potential
threats to plant, animal and microbial species in the environment.
iv. Disaster Preparedness
This field helps individuals understand the causes and consequences of natural and human-induced
disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, landslides, cyclones and various types of pollution. It also explores
measures to minimize their effects.
v. Decision-Making
Environmental studies equip individuals with the ability to evaluate alternative responses to environmental
issues before deciding on a course of action.
vi. Environmental Literacy
It enables individuals to become environmentally literate citizens by providing knowledge of environmental
laws, rights, rules and regulations. This knowledge empowers them to make informed judgments and
decisions for the protection and improvement of the Earth.
vii. Social Issues
Environmental studies shed light on societal problems like overpopulation, public health and hygiene. It
also emphasizes the role of arts, science and technology in addressing these challenges.
viii. Eco-Friendly Technologies
The field identifies and promotes the development of appropriate, indigenous and eco-friendly skills and
technologies to address various environmental issues.
ix. Sustainable Resource Use
It educates citizens about the importance of sustainable resource utilization, emphasizing that these
resources are inherited from our ancestors and must be passed on to future generations without
compromising their quality.
x. Practical Application
Environmental studies bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application,
demonstrating the multiple uses and benefits of a well-managed environment.

4. NEED FOR PUBLIC AWARENESS

It is essential to make the public aware of the formidable consequences of the Environmental Degradation,
if not retorted and reformative measures undertaken, would result in the extinction of life. We are facing
various environmental challenges. It is essential to get the country acquainted with these challenges so that
their acts may be eco-friendly. Some of these challenges are as under:
1. Growing Population
A population of over thousands of millions is growing at 2.11 per cent every year. Over 17 million people
are added each year. It puts considerable pressure on its natural resources and reduces the gains of
development. Hence, the greatest challenge before us is to limit the population growth. Although population
control does automatically lead to development, yet the development leads to a decrease in population
growth rates. For this development of the women is essential.
2. Poverty
India has often been described a rich land with poor people. The poverty and environmental degradation
have a nexus between them. The vast majority of our people are directly dependent on the nature resources
of the country for their basic needs of food, fuel shelter and fodder. About 40% of our people are still below
the poverty line. Environment degradation has adversely affected the poor who depend upon the resources
of their immediate surroundings. Thus, the challenge of poverty and the challenge environment degradation
are two facets of the same challenge. The population growth is essentially a function of poverty.
3. Agricultural Growth
The people must be acquainted with the methods to sustain and increase agricultural growth with damaging
the environment. High yielding varieties have caused soil salinity and damage to physical structure of soil.
4. Need for Ground Water
It is essential of rationalizing the use of groundwater. Factors like community wastes, industrial effluents
and chemical fertilizers and pesticides have polluted our surface water and affected quality of the
groundwater. It is essential to restore the water quality of our rivers and other water bodies as lakes is an
important challenge. It so finding our suitable strategies for consecration of water, provision of safe drinking
water and keeping water bodies clean which are difficult challenges is essential.
5. Development and Forests
With increasing demand of water, plan to harness the mighty river through large irrigation projects were
made. Certainly, these would submerge forests; displace local people, damage flora and fauna. As such, the
dams on the river Narmada, Bhagirathi and elsewhere have become areas of political and scientific debate.
Forests in India have been shrinking for several centuries owing to pressures of agriculture and other uses.
Vast areas that were once green, stand today as wastelands. These areas are to be brought back under
vegetative cover. The tribal communities inhabiting forests respects the trees and birds and animal that
gives them sustenance. We must recognize the role of these people in restoring and conserving forests. The
modern knowledge and skills of the forest deptt. should be integrated with the traditional knowledge and
experience of the local communities. The strategies for the joint management of forests should be evolved
in a well-planned way.
6. Degradation of Land
At present out of the total 329 mha of land, only 266 mha possess any potential for production. Of this, 143
mha is agricultural land nearly and 85 suffers from varying degrees of soil degradation. Of the remaining
123 mha, 40 are completely unproductive. The remaining 83 mha is classified as forest land, of which over
half is denuded to various degrees. Nearly 406 million head of livestock have to be supported on 13 mha,
or less than 4 per cent of the land classified as pasture land, most of which is overgrazed. Thus, out of 226
mha, about 175 mha or 66 per cent is degraded to varying degrees. Water and wind erosion cause further
degradation of almost 150 mha This degradation is to be avoided.
7. Reorientation of Institutions
The people should be roused to orient institutions, attitudes and infrastructures, to suit conditions and needs
today. The change has to be brought in keeping in view India’s traditions for resources use managements
and education etc. Change should be brought in education, in attitudes, in administrative procedures and in
institutions. Because it affects way people view technology resources and development.
8. Reduction of Genetic Diversity
Proper measures to conserve genetic diversity need to be taken. At present most, wild genetic stocks have
been disappearing from nature. Wilding including the Asiatic Lion are facing problem of loss of genetic
diversity. The protected areas network like sanctuaries, national parks, biosphere reserves are isolating
populations. So, they are decreasing changes of one group breeding with another. Remedial steps are to be
taken to check decreasing genetic diversity.
9. Evil Consequences of Urbanization
Nearly 27 per cent Indians live in urban areas. Urbanization and industrialization have given birth to a great
number of environmental problems that need urgent attention. Over 30 percent of urban Indians live in
slums. Out of India’s 3,245 towns and cities, only 21 have partial or full sewerage and treatment facilities.
Hence, coping with rapid urbanization is a major challenge.
10. Air and water Population
Majority of our industrial plants are using outdated and population technologies and makeshift facilities
devoid of any provision of treating their wastes. A great number of cities and industrial areas that have been
identified as the worst in terms of air and water pollution. Acts are enforced in the country, but their
implement is not so easy. The reason is their implementation needs great resources, technical expertise,
political and social will. Again, the people are to be made aware of these rules. Their support is
indispensable to implement these rules.

5. CONCLUSION
Environmental studies play a crucial role in fostering awareness, understanding and responsible action
towards environmental and societal challenges, making it relevant and essential for people of all ages.
Environmental studies serve as a vital tool for understanding the urgency of protecting our planet and
addressing the complex challenges that threaten our existence. By recognizing the global nature of
environmental issues and promoting wise and sustainable development, we can work towards a shared goal
of preserving the Earth’s environment for the well-being of all its inhabitants.