CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES

MODULE 5

GLOBAL WARMING

Global Warming – Overview

Definition

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due
to the buildup of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the
sun, preventing it from escaping back into space — much like the glass of a greenhouse.

Major Greenhouse Gases

1. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) – from burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas), deforestation.
2. Methane (CH₄) – from agriculture (especially rice fields, livestock), landfills, and
natural gas leaks.
3. Nitrous oxide (N₂O) – from fertilizers and industrial activities.
4. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) – from refrigerants and aerosol sprays (now controlled by
the Montreal Protocol).
5. Water vapor (H₂O) – naturally occurring but amplified by warming.

Causes of Global Warming

 Burning of fossil fuels for electricity, transport, and industry.

 Deforestation reduces carbon absorption by trees.
 Industrialization and urbanization increase emissions.
 Agricultural activities that release methane and nitrous oxide.
 Waste generation leading to methane emissions from landfills.

Effects of Global Warming

1. Climate Change – more heatwaves, floods, droughts, and cyclones.

2. Melting of glaciers and polar ice caps – leading to sea-level rise.
3. Loss of biodiversity – habitat destruction and extinction of species.
4. Agricultural impacts – reduced crop yields and food insecurity.
5. Health issues – heat stress, vector-borne diseases, respiratory problems.
6. Ocean acidification – due to increased CO₂ absorption by oceans.

Control Measures / Solutions

 Reduce fossil fuel use – switch to renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro).
 Afforestation and reforestation – increase green cover.
 Energy efficiency – in industries, homes, and vehicles.
 Waste management – recycling and composting to reduce methane emissions.
 Adopt sustainable agriculture – use organic fertilizers, reduce livestock emissions.

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 International agreements – such as the Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement.

 Public awareness – education and lifestyle changes.

Global Warming

CONCEPT

Global warming is the gradual rise in the Earth’s average surface temperature due to the
increased concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere.
These gases trap heat radiated from the Earth’s surface — a process known as the greenhouse
effect.
While the greenhouse effect is natural and necessary for life, human activities have intensified
it, causing excessive warming.

INDICATORS of Global Warming

Scientific evidence of global warming can be seen through various measurable indicators, such
as:

1. Rising Global Temperature – Earth’s average surface temperature has increased by

about 1.1°C since the late 19th century.
2. Melting of Glaciers and Ice Caps – Rapid ice loss in Greenland, Antarctica, and
mountain glaciers.
3. Sea Level Rise – Caused by melting ice and thermal expansion of seawater.
4. Ocean Warming and Acidification – Oceans absorb heat and CO₂, changing marine
chemistry.
5. Extreme Weather Events – More frequent heatwaves, droughts, floods, and cyclones.
6. Changes in Ecosystems – Shifts in vegetation zones, coral bleaching, and migration of
species.

FACTORS responsible for Global Warming

Global warming results mainly from human (anthropogenic) and natural factors:

A. Human (Anthropogenic) Factors

1. Burning of Fossil Fuels – Coal, oil, and gas used for electricity, transport, and industries
emit CO₂.
2. Deforestation – Reduces carbon absorption and increases CO₂ levels.
3. Industrialization – Releases GHGs like CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O.
4. Agricultural Activities – Methane from livestock and nitrous oxide from fertilizers.
5. Waste Generation – Landfills emit methane during waste decomposition.
6. Urbanization and Transportation – Increase energy use and air pollution.

B. Natural Factors

1. Volcanic Eruptions – Release CO₂ and particulates into the atmosphere.

2. Solar Variations – Changes in solar radiation affect Earth’s temperature.

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3. Ocean Currents and Natural Cycles – Influence heat distribution on Earth’s surface.

EFFECTS of Global Warming

Global warming has environmental, social, and economic impacts, including:

A. Environmental Effects

1. Melting of Polar Ice and glaciers → Sea-level rise → Coastal flooding.

2. Climate Change – Altered rainfall patterns and temperature extremes.
3. Desertification – Expansion of arid areas due to loss of vegetation.
4. Loss of Biodiversity – Habitat destruction and species extinction.
5. Ocean Acidification – Threatens marine life, especially corals and shellfish.

B. Social and Economic Effects

1. Agricultural Impacts – Crop failure, reduced yields, and food insecurity.

2. Health Issues – Heat-related illnesses, spread of vector-borne diseases (e.g., malaria).
3. Water Scarcity – Reduced freshwater availability due to droughts.
4. Displacement of People – Climate refugees from coastal and drought-affected regions.
5. Economic Losses – Damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and ecosystems.

GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE

Concept

Global climate change refers to the long-term alteration of temperature, rainfall, wind
patterns, and other elements of the Earth’s climate system, mainly due to increased
greenhouse gas emissions from human activities.
It includes not only global warming (rise in average temperature) but also broader climatic
shifts such as changes in precipitation, sea levels, and extreme weather events.

INDICATORS of Climate Change

These are measurable signs that show the Earth’s climate is changing:

1. Increase in Global Average Temperature – Continuous rise in land and ocean surface
temperatures.
2. Melting of Glaciers and Ice Caps – Shrinking ice sheets in Greenland, Antarctica, and
mountain glaciers.
3. Rising Sea Levels – Caused by melting ice and thermal expansion of seawater.
4. Extreme Weather Events – More frequent and intense heatwaves, floods, droughts,
cyclones, and wildfires.
5. Changes in Precipitation Patterns – Altered monsoons, heavier rainfall in some
regions, and drought in others.
6. Shifts in Vegetation and Ecosystem Boundaries – Migration of plant and animal
species toward cooler regions.

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7. Ocean Warming and Acidification – Oceans absorb CO₂ and heat, disrupting marine
ecosystems.

HEALTH IMPACTS of Climate Change

Climate change affects human health directly and indirectly:

A. Direct Impacts

1. Heat-related Illnesses and Deaths – Increased heatwaves cause dehydration, heatstroke,

and cardiovascular stress.
2. Extreme Weather Injuries – Floods, storms, and wildfires lead to injuries, deaths, and
mental trauma.

B. Indirect Impacts

1. Vector-borne Diseases – Warmer climates expand habitats for mosquitoes and ticks,
increasing diseases like malaria, dengue, and chikungunya.
2. Water-borne Diseases – Flooding and contamination lead to outbreaks of cholera and
diarrheal diseases.
3. Food Insecurity and Malnutrition – Crop failure and reduced yields affect nutrition.
4. Air Pollution-related Diseases – Worsened respiratory and heart diseases due to smog
and pollen increase.
5. Mental Health Issues – Stress, anxiety, and depression from displacement and disaster
impacts.

EFFECTS of Climate Change on Biodiversity

Climate change severely affects ecosystems and species diversity:

1. Habitat Loss and Alteration – Warming causes coral bleaching, forest fires, and
wetland drying.
2. Species Migration – Animals and plants shift to cooler areas (higher altitudes or
latitudes).
3. Extinction of Species – Species unable to adapt or migrate face extinction (e.g., polar
bears, amphibians, corals).
4. Disruption of Ecosystem Balance – Changes in food chains, breeding patterns, and
pollination.
5. Marine Biodiversity Decline – Ocean acidification harms coral reefs, plankton, and
shellfish.
6. Loss of Genetic Diversity – Reduced resilience of ecosystems to pests, diseases, and
environmental stress.

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INTRODUCTION TO GLOBAL EFFORTS IN CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY

Concept

Biodiversity conservation refers to the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of

biological resources — including plants, animals, microorganisms, and their ecosystems.
Because biodiversity loss is a global issue, many international organizations, treaties, and
conventions have been established to coordinate efforts across countries.

Need for Global Efforts

 Biodiversity is unevenly distributed across the world, but its benefits are shared
globally.
 Many species migrate across borders; hence, international cooperation is essential.
 Human activities like deforestation, pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction
threaten ecosystems worldwide.
 Global frameworks promote shared responsibility, scientific collaboration, and
financial support for conservation.

Major Global Efforts and Conventions

A. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), 1992

 Adopted at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro (1992).

 Main objectives:
1. Conservation of biodiversity.
2. Sustainable use of its components.
3. Fair and equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources.
 Led to National Biodiversity Action Plans (NBAPs) in member countries.

B. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), 1973

 Controls international trade of wildlife and plant species to prevent extinction.

 Species are listed in Appendices I, II, and III based on their threat levels.
 Example: Ban on trade in elephant ivory and tiger skins.

C. Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, 1971

 Aims to conserve wetlands of international importance, especially as waterfowl

habitats.
 Promotes wise use of wetlands through national and international cooperation.

D. World Heritage Convention (UNESCO), 1972

 Protects natural and cultural sites of outstanding universal value.

 Examples: Great Barrier Reef (Australia), Kaziranga National Park (India).

E. Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme, UNESCO (1971)

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 Promotes biosphere reserves as models for balancing conservation and sustainable

development.
 Encourages research, education, and local community participation.

F. IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), 1948

 Publishes the Red Data Book, listing endangered and threatened species.
 Works globally to support protected area management and species recovery.

G. Paris Agreement (2015)

 Though focused on climate change, it indirectly supports biodiversity by promoting

ecosystem resilience and reducing environmental degradation

Other Global Initiatives

 Global Environment Facility (GEF): Provides financial support for conservation

projects.
 Agenda 21: A global plan for sustainable development adopted at the 1992 Earth
Summit.
 IPBES (Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem
Services): Provides scientific assessments on biodiversity loss and solutions.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) REGULATIONS IN INDIA

Concept of EIA

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process used to evaluate the

environmental consequences (positive or negative) of a proposed project before its
implementation.
Its goal is to ensure sustainable development by integrating environmental concerns into
decision-making.

Evolution of EIA in India

 1976–77: EIA introduced in India by the Department of Environment (Government of

India) for river-valley projects.
 1986: The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 provided the legal framework for EIA.
 1994: The first EIA Notification issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forests
(MoEF).
 2006: A revised EIA Notification (current version) under the Environment (Protection)
Act, 1986 — providing detailed procedures for environmental clearance.

Key Features of EIA Notification, 2006

The EIA Notification, 2006 (issued by MoEFCC) is the main regulation governing EIA in
India.

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A. Categorization of Projects

Projects are classified into:

 Category A: Require clearance from the Central Government (MoEFCC).

 Category B: Require clearance from the State Environmental Impact Assessment
Authority (SEIAA).
o B1: Require EIA study.
o B2: Do not require detailed EIA.

B. Four Stages of EIA Process

1. Screening: To determine whether a project requires a full EIA study.

2. Scoping: Identify key environmental issues and set terms of reference (ToR).
3. Public Consultation: Obtain views and concerns of affected communities and
stakeholders.
4. Appraisal: Expert committees review the EIA report and recommend approval,
modification, or rejection.

Important Institutions in EIA Regulation

 MoEFCC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change): Central authority

for Category A projects.
 SEIAA (State Environment Impact Assessment Authority): Clears Category B
projects at the state level.
 EAC (Expert Appraisal Committee): Examines and evaluates EIA reports for decision-
making.
 Project Proponents: Responsible for conducting EIA studies and preparing reports.

Major Amendments

 EIA Draft Notification, 2020: Proposed online monitoring, validity period extension,
and post-facto clearance (controversial).
 Recent updates (post-2020): Aim to simplify and digitize approval processes while
maintaining environmental safeguards.

Objectives of EIA Regulations

 Predict and minimize environmental impacts of development projects.

 Promote sustainable development.
 Involve public participation and transparency in decision-making.
 Ensure legal compliance with environmental protection standards.

Limitations of EIA in India

 Poor quality and biased EIA reports.

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 Weak monitoring and enforcement.

 Inadequate public participation.
 Delays and procedural inefficiencies.

STATUS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) IN INDIA

Introduction

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) system in India aims to evaluate and manage
the environmental consequences of development projects before implementation.
It plays a crucial role in achieving sustainable development, ensuring that economic growth
does not come at the cost of environmental degradation.

Legal and Institutional Framework

 The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 provides the legal basis for EIA in India.
 The first EIA Notification (1994) made it mandatory for certain categories of projects
to obtain Environmental Clearance (EC).
 The EIA Notification (2006) replaced the 1994 version, simplifying procedures and
introducing decentralization (Category A and B projects).
 The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and State
Environmental Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs) are the key implementing
bodies.

Present Status and Practice

At present, the EIA process in India is legally established and operational nationwide, but its
effectiveness varies across regions and sectors.

A. Achievements

1. Legal Framework Exists: EIA is a mandatory part of project approval under the
Environment (Protection) Act.
2. Institutional Mechanism: Central and State-level authorities (MoEFCC, SEIAAs, and
Expert Appraisal Committees) are in place.
3. Public Participation: Public hearings and consultations are part of the process.
4. Digitalization: Online submission and monitoring systems (PARIVESH Portal) have
improved transparency.
5. Awareness Growing: Project proponents and government bodies increasingly recognize
the need for EIA.

B. Limitations / Challenges

1. Poor Quality of EIA Reports: Often prepared hastily or copied without proper field
studies.
2. Weak Implementation: Monitoring and post-clearance compliance are inadequate.
3. Limited Public Involvement: Public hearings are sometimes poorly conducted or
ignored.

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4. Political and Economic Pressures: Clearances are sometimes granted under influence,
undermining objectivity.
5. Lack of Capacity: Many state agencies lack trained manpower and technical expertise.
6. Post-Facto Clearances: Some industries begin operations before obtaining clearance,
violating EIA norms.

Recent Developments

 EIA Draft Notification, 2020: Proposed reforms such as validity extensions and faster
approvals — but criticized for weakening environmental safeguards.
 Use of Technology: Introduction of GIS mapping, digital monitoring, and
PARIVESH portal for online clearances.
 Judicial Interventions: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) actively enforces EIA
compliance and addresses violations.

Overall Assessment

 EIA in India has evolved into a well-established regulatory tool, but it still faces
implementation and enforcement challenges.
 There is a need to strengthen transparency, scientific accuracy, public participation,
and post-clearance monitoring to make the EIA process truly effective.

LIST OF PROJECTS NEEDING ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE UNDER EIA

NOTIFICATION

According to the EIA Notification (2006) issued under the Environment (Protection) Act,
1986, certain projects and activities must obtain prior Environmental Clearance (EC) before
starting construction or operation.

These projects are listed in the Schedule of the Notification and are divided into two
categories:

Category A Projects

 Require clearance from the Central Government (MoEFCC).

 Usually large-scale projects with national or inter-state environmental impacts.

Category B Projects

 Require clearance from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority

(SEIAA).
 Smaller in scale but still environmentally significant.
 B1: Require detailed EIA study.
 B2: Do not require EIA or public hearing.

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Major Sectors and Examples of Projects Requiring Environmental Clearance

Sl.
Sector / Project Type Examples / Description
No.
1 Mining Projects Coal mining, mineral mining, sand mining, etc.
2 Thermal Power Plants Coal, gas, or oil-based power plants.
3 Nuclear Power Projects Nuclear reactors and related facilities.
River Valley and
4 Dams, irrigation canals, hydroelectric plants.
Hydroelectric Projects
Infrastructure
5 Highways, expressways, ports, airports, inland waterways.
Development
Industry (Chemical,
6 Petrochemical, Cement, Large- and medium-scale manufacturing units.
etc.)
Oil, Gas, and Petroleum
7 Exploration, drilling, refineries, pipelines, storage.
Projects
8 Metallurgical Industries Iron, steel, aluminum, copper, zinc smelters.
9 Cement Plants Integrated cement manufacturing units and grinding units.
10 Fertilizer Plants Nitrogen/phosphate-based fertilizer manufacturing.
11 Pulp and Paper Industry Pulp manufacturing and paper mills.
12 Textile Industry Large-scale dyeing, bleaching, and printing units.
13 Sugar Industry Sugar mills with large production capacity.
14 Distilleries and Breweries Alcohol and spirit manufacturing units.
15 Leather and Tanneries Large-scale tanning and processing units.
Building and Construction Townships, commercial complexes, industrial estates, SEZs
16
Projects (Special Economic Zones).
Ports, Harbors, and
17 Deep-water ports, harbor expansion, dredging.
Dredging Activities
Tourism and Area Resorts, hill stations, and recreational facilities in ecologically
18
Development Projects sensitive zones.
19 Aviation Projects Construction or expansion of airports and airstrips.
New lines, expansion, or electrification passing through
20 Railway Projects
sensitive areas.
Hazardous waste treatment, biomedical waste facilities,
Waste Management
21 common effluent treatment plants (CETPs), solid waste
Projects
management plants.
22 Highways and Expressways National highways, state highways, bypass roads.
23 Defense Projects Ammunition depots, testing ranges, and related installations.
Townships and Area Housing projects with area >50 ha or built-up area >1,50,000
24
Development m².

CASE STUDY OF HYDRO POWER/ THERMAL POWER PROJECTS

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Case Study 1: Tehri Hydro Power Project (Uttarakhand, India)

Introduction

 Project: Tehri Dam and Hydro Power Complex

 Location: River Bhagirathi, Uttarakhand
 Type: Multipurpose project — power generation, irrigation, and drinking water supply
 Capacity: 2400 MW (Hydroelectric Power)
 Implemented by: Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC)
 Construction period: 1978–2006

Objectives

 Generate hydroelectric power for Northern India.

 Supply irrigation water to about 2.7 lakh hectares.
 Provide drinking water to Delhi and surrounding areas.

Environmental Impacts Identified (EIA Findings)

Aspect Impact
Land & Forests Submergence of ~4,200 hectares, including forest and agricultural land.
Biodiversity Loss of forest cover and wildlife habitat.
Socio-economic Displacement of more than 100,000 people (villages submerged).
Water Quality Stagnation leading to siltation and eutrophication.
Seismic Risk Project lies in Seismic Zone IV — risk of dam failure during earthquakes.
Reduction in natural river flow affecting aquatic life and farmers
Downstream Flow
downstream.

Mitigation Measures

 Afforestation and compensatory plantation in catchment areas.

 Resettlement and rehabilitation program for affected families.
 Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) to control soil erosion.
 Environmental Monitoring Committee established for long-term surveillance.
 Emergency response plan for seismic safety.

Case Study 2: Mundra Thermal Power Project (Gujarat, India)

Introduction

 Project: Mundra Ultra Mega Power Project (UMPP)

 Location: Mundra, Kutch District, Gujarat
 Type: Coal-based thermal power plant
 Capacity: 4,000 MW
 Developer: Tata Power (Coastal Gujarat Power Ltd)
 Commissioned: 2012

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Objectives

 Meet rising electricity demand in western India (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana,

Punjab).
 Promote industrial and economic development through power supply.

Environmental Impacts Identified (EIA Findings)

Aspect Impact
Air Pollution Emissions of SO₂, NOₓ, CO₂, and particulate matter from coal combustion.
Hot water discharge from cooling systems affected marine biodiversity and
Marine Ecosystem
fisheries.
Land Use Conversion of coastal land and mangrove destruction.
Water
High usage of seawater and freshwater.
Consumption
Solid Waste Generation of fly ash and bottom ash.
Socio-economic Impact on local fishing communities due to loss of livelihood.

Mitigation Measures

 Installation of Electrostatic Precipitators (ESPs) to reduce particulate emissions.

 Use of flue gas desulphurization (FGD) systems to cut SO₂ emissions.
 Mangrove restoration and greenbelt development around the plant.
 Ash utilization in cement and construction industries.
 Wastewater treatment and temperature control before discharge.
 Community development programs for local rehabilitation.

Overall Learning

Aspect Hydro Power (Tehri) Thermal Power (Mundra)

Main
Water (renewable) Coal (non-renewable)
Resource
Major Impact Displacement, ecosystem loss Air & water pollution
Key Concern Social and seismic safety Emissions and coastal ecology
Highlighted resettlement and catchment Identified marine and air pollution
EIA Role
issues impacts
Lesson Need for people-centered planning Need for cleaner technologies

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