Unit - I : Environment
Syllabus :
1.1 Definition, need of environmental studies
1.2 Segments of environment : Atmosphere, Hydrosphere, Lithosphere, Biosphere
1.3 Environmental issues : Greenhouse effect, climate change, global warming, acid rain,
ozone layer depletion, nuclear accidents.
1.4 Concepts of 4R : Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover.
1.5 Public awareness of the environment
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1.1 Definition of environment :
The word environment is derived from the French word “Environ” meaning
“Surroundings” i.e. everything around us is environment.
“Environmental studies deal with every issue that affects living organisms. It is essentially a
multidisciplinary approach that brings about an appreciation of our natural world and
human impact on its integrity.”
Environment includes all aspects of the world around us in which humans, animals and
plants live with non-living things.
United Nations International Conference on Human Environment, was held at
Stockholm, Sweden, from 5th June to 16th June 1972.
World Environment Day is celebrated on 5th June every year.
Need of environmental studies :
1. Environmental studies are needed to know the international issues of climate change.
2. Environmental studies are needed for the sustainable development of the world.
3. Environmental studies are needed to know the effects of increased pollution.
4. Environmental studies are needed to adopt the alternative solution for the changed
ecosystem.
5. Environmental studies are needed to save humanity from extinction.
6. Environmental studies are needed for the wise planning of development.
1.2 Segments of environment :
The environment consists of four [Link] are 1)Atmosphere, 2)Hydrosphere,
3)Lithosphere and 4)Biosphere
1) Atmosphere, :
About 99% of the total earth's atmospheric mass is concentrated in the first 30 km above
Earth's surface. Based on characteristics such as temperature and composition, the earth's
atmosphere can be divisible into following layers –Troposphere, Stratosphere, Ionosphere,
Exosphere.
i) Troposphere : Troposphere is at about 12 km from Earth's surface. The lowest layer
from the surface of the earth is known as " Troposphere ". The temperature decreases
according to the height at this level. The drop of temperature rate at every 160 m height is
about 100C.
The temperature differs at different heights and at different layers. It covers 80% of the
atmospheric air. In this layer rain, wind, storm, hail, snow, clouds [Link].
Tropopause the layer that separates troposphere and stratosphere layers is called as
tropopause which is at 2 to 3 km above the [Link], wind, lightning, clouds, storm,
etc., do not exist in this [Link] of this layer is about - 53° C. It also contains high
amount dry ozone.
ii) Stratosphere : Stratosphere is a layer between tropopause and
[Link] remain constant upto 32 Km [Link] layer is called 'Isothermal
Zone'. Ozonosphere is a layer of Ozone which covers at a height of about 20 to 35 km from
the surface of the earth. When the ultraviolet radiation from sunlight comes in contact with
oxygen, they are processed and ozone (O3) gas is produced. Ozone layer absorbs the harmful
ultraviolet rays radiated from Sun, hence the temperature of Ozone layer increases. This
layer protects life on Earth. Hence the ozone layer is called the "Protective umbrella of earth
". Today, due to increasing pollution, the layer of ozone is becoming weak, which results in
an increase in global temperature, (Global Warming).
iii)Ionosphere: Ionosphere is a layer found beyond the stratosphere, around 360 to 400
km from the surface of the earth, which is until the end of the atmosphere. It extends from
104 to 112 km from the surface of the earth. Only 1% of the air is present in this layer of the
total atmospheric air.
iv)Exosphere : Exosphere extends from 500 to 750 km from the surface of the earth. At a
height of about 490 km radio waves of a temperature of 17000 C have been detected through
rocket and radio waves. This layer contains neutral atoms of Oxygen, Helium and Hydrogen.
At a height of about 2000 km, the Neutral atoms have an effect called a magnetic circle.
2) Hydrosphere:
Hydrosphere covers more than 71% of the earth’s surface either as oceans (salt water) or as
fresh water. Hydrosphere includes (both surface and underground water) sea, rivers, oceans,
lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands.
3) Lithosphere:
It includes the Earth’s crust and upper mantle. It contains the fossil fuels and minerals and
the soil chemicals (nutrients) needed to support plant life.
4) Biosphere :
The portion of earth where living (biotic) organisms are found and interact with one another
and with their non-living (abiotic) environment. This zone of life includes plants, animals,
and their habitat.
1.3 Environmental issues :
Increasing population, urbanization and poverty have generated pressure on natural
resources and led to environmental degradation. Mainly the environment is affected by the
following factors : 1)Greenhouse effect, 2)climate change, 3)global warming, 4)acid rain,
5)ozone layer depletion, 6)nuclear accidents.
1) Greenhouse effect:
The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth's surface. It occurs
when certain gases (Carbon Dioxide, Methane, Nitrous Oxide,Fluorinated Gases) in the atmosphere
trap heat from the sun, preventing it from escaping back into space. This trapped heat keeps
the Earth at a temperature that is hospitable for life.
However, human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, have increased
the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, intensifying the greenhouse effect
and leading to global warming. This has caused changes in the Earth's climate, including
rising temperatures, melting polar ice caps, and more frequent extreme weather events.
Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of the greenhouse effect
are crucial in order to preserve the health of our planet and protect future generations. It is
important to adopt sustainable practices and support policies that promote renewable energy
sources in order to combat the negative impacts of the greenhouse effect.
2) Climate change:
Climate change is a pressing issue that affects every corner of the globe. The
increasing levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are leading
to rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and the loss of biodiversity. It is
imperative that we take action to mitigate the impact of climate change by reducing our
carbon footprint, investing in renewable energy sources, and implementing sustainable
practices. Our collective efforts can make a difference in preserving the planet for future
generations. Let's work together to combat climate change and create a healthier and more
sustainable world.
3) Global warming:
Global warming is a pressing issue that we cannot ignore. The Earth's average temperature
has been increasing at an alarming rate due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels,
deforestation, and industrial processes. This has led to detrimental effects on the environment,
including rising sea levels, extreme weather patterns, and loss of biodiversity.
It is crucial for us to take action to mitigate the impacts of global warming by reducing our
carbon footprint, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and advocating for policies that
promote sustainability. We must prioritize the health of our planet for the well-being of current and
future generations.
Let's work together to combat global warming and preserve the precious resources of our Earth.
4) Acid rain:
Acid rainfall, also known as acid rain, is a type of precipitation that contains high levels
of acidic compounds. These acidic compounds, such as sulfuric acid and nitric acid, are
formed when pollutants from industrial activities, vehicles, and other human sources react
with the atmosphere. When these compounds are released into the air, they can then be
carried by winds and deposited as acid rainfall. This type of precipitation can have harmful
effects on the environment, including damaging forests, lakes, and aquatic ecosystems, as
well as causing corrosion of buildings and monuments.
5) Ozone layer depletion:
Ozone layer depletion refers to the thinning of the ozone layer in the Earth's
stratosphere. The ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting the Earth by absorbing the
majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. However, human activities have led to the
release of chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons, which have been
shown to deplete the ozone layer. This depletion allows more harmful UV radiation to reach
the Earth's surface, leading to increased risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health
problems in humans, as well as negative impacts on plant and animal life. Efforts to reduce
the use of ozone-depleting substances have been made through international agreements such
as the Montreal Protocol, which has contributed to the recovery of the ozone layer in recent
years.
6) Nuclear accidents:
A nuclear accident is an incident that involves a release of radioactive
materials from a nuclear facility, such as a power plant or a research facility. This
can occur due to a variety of factors, including equipment malfunction, human
error, or natural disasters. Nuclear accidents can result in contamination of the
environment, harm to human health, and long-term environmental and economic
consequences. Examples of nuclear accidents include the Chernobyl disaster in
1986 and the Fukushima disaster in 2011.
1.4 Concepts of 4R : (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover.)
The concept of 4R refers to the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover.
These principles promote sustainable and responsible consumption and waste
management. By reducing the amount of resources used, reusing products and materials,
recycling waste, and recovering energy or materials from waste, individuals and
businesses can minimize their impact on the environment and work towards a more
circular economy. Adhering to the 4R concept can help conserve natural resources, reduce
pollution, and minimize the amount of waste sent to landfills.
1.5 Public awareness of the environment
Since 1970, many National and International Conferences have been held, to enhance
environmental awareness. There are several government and nongovernment
organizations (NGOs) that are working towards environmental protection and for
conservation of natural resources.
A) Botanical Survey of India (BSI):
BSI was established in 1890 with the objectives of exploring the plant resources of
the country and identifying plant species with economic values. Its headquarter is located
in Kolkata.
B) Forest Research Institute (FRI) :
FRI was established in 1906 at Dehradun to conduct training research and
management of protection of forest.
C ) Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) :
ZSI was established on 1st July, 1916 to promote survey, exploration and research
leading to the advancement of our knowledge in various aspects of animal life. Its
headquarter is located in Kolkata.
D) The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN):
IUCN was established on 5th October 1948. Its headquarter is located in Switzerland.
As the first global environmental union, it bought together governments and civil society
organizations with a shared goal to protect nature.
E) National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) :
NEERI, in Nagpur is a constituent of Council of Scientific & Industrial Research
(CSIR), New Delhi and has a nation-wide presence with its five zonal laboratories at
Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai.
F) World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF):
WWF was established in April, 1961 at [Link] Giant Panda became
the logo for WWF. WWF's wildlife trade arm, TRAFFIC (Trade Record Analysis of Flora
and Fauna In Commerce), launched an extensive publicity campaign to combat illegal
wildlife trade in 1986.
G) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP):
UNEP was established in 1972, with headquarters at Nairobi, Kenya.
H) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):
CPCB is a statutory organization, constituted in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and
Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
Prevention and Control of Pollution Act, 1981.
I) Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB):
MPCB was established in 1970.
J) Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS):
BNHS, was the pioneer organization started for conservation in India. A pan-India
the wildlife research organization was initiated in 1883. It is one of the largest
non-governmental organizations in India engaged in conservation and biodiversity
research.
K) Wildlife Institute of India (WII):
Established in 1982, Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is an internationally acclaimed
Institution, which offers training program, academic courses and advisory in wildlife
research and management. Its headquarter is located at Dehradun.
L) Environmental Information System in India (ENVIS):
In 1982, the Government of India established an Environmental Information System
(ENVIS) .that provides environmental information to decision makers, policy planners,
scientists, engineers, researchers etc. across the country.
Contribution of people for environment protection:
1) Dr. Salim Ali was an Indian ornithologist and naturalist, often referred to as the
"Birdman of India." He was the first person to introduce systematic ornithology when
nobody was aware of the distribution of birds in India. Keoladeo National Park
(Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) was established after Dr. Salim Ali’s continuous
interventions. He fought to save the Silent Valley National Park in Kerala, where the
government planned to construct a hydroelectric power project. His research on the
habitat of weaver birds was appreciated by ornithologists all over the world. In 1967 he
received the J. Paul Wildlife Conservation award, a prestigious award in conservation.
2) M. C. Mehta undoubtedly India’s most famous environmental lawyer since 1984, has
filed several Public Interest Litigations (PILs) for supporting the cause of environmental
conservation. His most famous and long – drawn battles include protecting the Taj Mahal,
cleaning up the Ganga river, banning intensive shrimp farming on the coast, initiating the
government to implement environmental education in the schools and colleges and a
variety of other conservation issues.
3) Sundarlal Bahuguna initiated Chipko movement which became an internationally
well-known example of highly successful conservation action programs through the
efforts of local people for guarding their forest resources. His fight to prevent the
construction of the Tehri dam in a fragile earthquake – prone setting is a battle that he
continued to wage.
4) Dr. M. S. Swaminathan is called as the Father of Green Revolution of India. He was
one of India's foremost agricultural scientists and has shown concern about various
aspects of biodiversity conservation of both traditional crops and wild species. He has
founded Dr. M. S . Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai, which works for the
conservation of biological diversity.
5) Gro Harlem Brundtland
The Brundtland Commission, formerly the World Commission on Environment
and Development, was a sub-organization of the United Nations (UN) that aimed to
unite countries in pursuit of sustainable development. It was founded in 1983
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Multiple Choice Questions
1)_______ is celebrated as World Environment Day.
a) 5th May b) 5th June c) 16th September d) 21st April
2) Environmental science is a_______________
a) Multidisciplinary science b) Chemical science
c) Medical science d) None of these
3) FRI was established in 1906 at_____________
a) Dehradun b) Delhi c) Calcutta d) Mumbai
4)_____________ led by the Chipko movement.
a) [Link] Ali b) [Link]
c) Sundarlal Bahuguna d) Medha Patkar
5) ENVIS is established in_______________
a) 1945 b) 1961 c) 1982 d) 1973
6) The headquarter of NEERI is located at____________
a) Pune b) Nagpur c) Mumbai d) Kolkata
7) The United Nation set up the world commission on Environment and
development in___________
a) 1983 b) 1984 c) 1985 d) 1986
8) gases that trap heat in the atmosphere of the earth are called _________gases
a) Greenhouse gases b) carbon dioxide c) nitrogen d)CFC
9) What was the global average temperature of the earth before industrialization?
a) 5 degree celsius b)10 degree celsius c)14 degree celsius d)20 degree celsius
10) Why is the concentration of greenhouse gases increasing in the earth’s
atmosphere in the last 150 years? Select correct options.
a) Because we are planting more trees and trees give give out CO2
b) Because human activities post industrialization are emitting more CO2 and
other greenhouse gases
c) Because people are using more chilies in their meals
d) Because of deforestation, there are lesser trees to utilize the CO2 in the
atmosphere
11) What is the current average carbon footprint of an Indian?
a) 16 tons b) 4.79 tons c) 1.91 tons d) none of the above
12) What are some of the major impacts of climate change?
a) Rising sea levels
b) Increased frequency of natural disasters
c) Change in precipitation patterns
d) All of the above
13) Which is the zone in India that is most vulnerable to extreme climate events?
a) Northern b) eastern c) western d) southern
14) What kind of livelihoods are likely to get affected first due to climate change?
a) Teaching
b) Office bearers
c) Ecosystem dependent livelihoods like agriculture, fishing etc.
d) Computer engineering
15 ) What is the impact of climate change on fishing communities ?
a) Loss of settlements of the fishing communities,
b) Risk to the lives of traditional fisherfolk in deep sea fishing,
c) Change and decline in fish distribution from coast to deep sea
d) All of the above
16) The first intergovernmental conference on the environment took place at _____
in _______ .
a) Kyoto, 1997 b) Stockholm, 1972 c)Rio de Janeiro, 1992 d) Delhi, 1947
Answers : 1) b, 2) a, 3) a, 4) c, 5) c, 6) b, 7) a, 8) a , 9) c, 10) b, 11) c,
12) d, 13) d, 14) c, 15) d 16) b