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to Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies (EVS) is an interdisciplinary subject that explores the


relationship between humans and nature. It focuses on natural resources,
pollution, biodiversity, and sustainability.

Key environmental concerns:

• Deforestation – Forest loss due to agriculture and urbanization.

• Climate Change – Rising global temperatures from greenhouse


gases.

• Water Scarcity – Overuse and pollution of freshwater resources.

• Biodiversity Loss – Extinction of species due to habitat


destruction.

2. Scope and Importance of EVS

EVS is essential for:

• Education & Awareness – Understanding environmental issues.

• Resource Conservation – Sustainable use of water, forests, and


minerals.

• Industrial and Economic Growth – Encouraging green


technologies.

• Policy Making – Informing laws and international treaties like the


Paris Agreement (2015) and Environmental Protection Act (1986, India).

3. Sustainable Development

Sustainable development ensures progress without harming future


generations.
Key principles:

1. Intergenerational Equity – Protecting resources for the future.

2. Polluter Pays Principle – Industries must pay for the pollution they
cause.

3. Precautionary Principle – Preventing environmental damage


before it happens.

Global efforts:

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – 17 global goals


addressing poverty, climate change, and responsible consumption.

• Kyoto Protocol – Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Example: Costa Rica – Nearly 99% of its electricity comes from renewable
sources.

Unit 2: Environmental Issues

1. Environmental Performance Index (EPI)

The EPI ranks countries based on environmental policies and sustainability.

Major factors:

• Air Quality – Pollution levels and health impacts.

• Water Resources – Access to clean water and sanitation.

• Biodiversity and Habitat – Protection of forests and wildlife.

• Climate Policy – Efforts to reduce carbon emissions.


Countries with high EPI scores have strong environmental laws, while low-
ranked nations struggle with pollution and deforestation.

2. Ecotourism

Ecotourism promotes responsible travel that conserves nature and benefits


local communities.

Principles:

• Conservation – Protecting wildlife and landscapes.

• Community Involvement – Supporting local economies.

• Sustainability – Minimizing environmental impact.

Examples:

• Kaziranga National Park (India) – Protects one-horned rhinos


through regulated tourism.

• Galápagos Islands (Ecuador) – Strict visitor regulations preserve


marine biodiversity.

3. Love Canal Tragedy

The Love Canal Disaster (USA, 1970s) was a major case of industrial
pollution.

What happened:

• Hooker Chemical Company dumped toxic waste in an area later


developed into a residential neighborhood.

• Chemical leaks caused severe health problems, including birth


defects and cancer.
Impact:

• Led to the Superfund Act (CERCLA, 1980), holding industries


responsible for waste clean-up.

• Increased awareness about hazardous waste disposal.

Unit 3: Biodiversity

1. Biodiversity Hotspots

Biodiversity hotspots are regions with high species diversity but under severe
threat.

Criteria:

1. At least 1,500 endemic plant species.

2. Lost at least 70% of original vegetation.

Major hotspots in India:

• Himalayas – Home to Snow leopards, Red pandas.

• Western Ghats – Hosts endemic species like Nilgiri Tahr.

• Sundaland (Nicobar Islands) – Rich in marine biodiversity.

2. Biodiversity Conservation

Biodiversity conservation methods include:

1. In-Situ Conservation (Protecting species in their natural habitat)


• National Parks – Ex: Jim Corbett, Kaziranga.

• Wildlife Sanctuaries – Ex: Gir (Asiatic lions).

• Biosphere Reserves – Ex: Sundarbans, Nilgiri.

2. Ex-Situ Conservation (Protecting species outside their natural habitat)

• Zoos and Botanical Gardens – Preserve endangered species.

• Seed Banks – Store plant genetic material.

• Captive Breeding Programs – Project Tiger, Project Elephant.

3. Biosphere Reserves

Biosphere reserves balance conservation with human activity.

Structure:

• Core Zone – Strictly protected area.

• Buffer Zone – Limited research and tourism allowed.

• Transition Zone – Sustainable resource use permitted.

Examples in India:

• Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve – Part of the Western Ghats biodiversity


hotspot.

• Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve – Protects mangrove forests and


Bengal tigers.

4. Species Information

• Endangered Species – Species facing extinction (e.g., Red Panda,


Bengal Tiger).
• Extinct Species – Species that no longer exist (e.g., Dodo,
Passenger Pigeon).

• Keystone Species – Species essential for ecosystem stability


(e.g., Elephants, Bees).

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