CONTENT

[1–15 February, 2025]

COMMUNITY-BASED FOREST MANAGEMENT (CBFM) 2

BANKING ON FLAWED DRUG VOLUNTARY LICENCES 3
150 YEARS OF INDIA METEOROLOGICAL DEPARTMENT (IMD) 4
CIRCULAR ECONOMY & PLASTIC POLLUTION TREATY 5
INTERNATIONAL CARBON EXCHANGE 6
PRELIMS
PRESIDENTIAL ACTIONS OF DONALD TRUMP AS 46TH POTUS 7
MARBURG VIRUS DISEASE 8
TRIBAL MINISTRY DIRECTS STATES TO CREATE FRA COMPLIANCE MECHANISM 8
DEMOISELLE CRANES 9
NATIONAL EDIBLE OIL CONSUMPTION SURVEY 9
HYDROCLIMATE WHIPLASH 10
HOLLONGAPAR GIBBON SANCTUARY 11
STEEL SLAG 11
MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE AS A VIABLE OPTION TO SUPPLEMENT COAL AS FUEL IN CEMENT PLANTS 12
COAL COMBUSTION RESIDUE (FLY ASH) IN CEMENT-MAKING 14
FLUE GAS DESULPHURISATION GYPSUM (FGD GYPSUM) 15
RED MUD: IRON ADDITIVE IN CEMENT PRODUCTION 16
BAGASSE, PRESS MUD AND MOLASSES 17
BIOMASS: AN ALTERNATE FUEL TO COAL 18
HAZARDOUS WASTE IN CEMENT INDUSTRY 19
STONE SLURRY & ITS APPLICATIONS 20
WASTEPAPER RECYCLING IN INDIA 21
ROLE OF INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES IN TACKLING ARIDITY 22
SUBJECTIVE QUESTIONS
MCQS
 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

COMMUNITY-BASED FOREST MANAGEMENT ● It aims to harness this local knowledge and

(CBFM) commitment to achieve sustainable forest
management.
Context
● Residents of 30 villages in Uttarakhand establish a Key Principles of CBFM
model for public participation in saving forests from ● Participatory Decision-Making: CBFM involves
wildfires communities in the decision-making process,
ensuring that their voices are heard and their
About the Community-Based Forest Management knowledge is valued.
(CBFM) ○ It fosters a sense of ownership and
● It represents a paradigm shift in forest conservation, responsibility among community members.
emphasizing the active participation and ● Empowerment and Capacity Building: CBFM
empowerment of local communities. empowers communities by providing them with the
● It recognizes that the people living in and around necessary skills and resources to manage forest
forests are best positioned to manage and protect resources sustainably.
these vital ecosystems. ○ Capacity-building initiatives, such as training
in sustainable practices and legal frameworks,
● By involving communities in decision-making
are essential components of this approach.
processes and giving them a stake in the sustainable
management of forest resources, CBFM aims to ● Benefit Sharing: One of the core principles of
achieve both ecological and socio-economic CBFM is the equitable sharing of benefits derived
benefits. from forest resources.
○ It includes not only financial benefits but also
Importance of Forests access to non-timber forest products, such as
● Forests play a crucial role in maintaining fruits, nuts, and medicinal plants.
ecological balance. They act as carbon sinks, ● Sustainable Practices: CBFM promotes
absorbing carbon dioxide and mitigating climate sustainable forest management practices, such as
change. agroforestry, reforestation, and controlled
● They also provide habitat for countless species, harvesting.
maintain soil health, and regulate water cycles. ○ These practices help maintain the ecological
● The destruction of forests leads to biodiversity balance of forest ecosystems while supporting
loss, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and the livelihoods of local communities.
disruption of local communities.
Success Stories
● Joint Forest Management (JFM) in India: India
Need for CBFM has implemented JFM programs in various states,
● Traditional top-down approaches to forest involving local communities in the management and
management often overlooked the knowledge and protection of forest areas.
needs of local communities, leading to conflicts and ○ These programs have led to improved forest
ineffective conservation efforts. cover, enhanced biodiversity, and increased
● In contrast, CBFM acknowledges that local incomes for participating communities.
communities have a deep understanding of their ● Community Forestry in Nepal: Nepal's
environment and a vested interest in its community forestry program has been highly
preservation. successful, with thousands of community forest user
groups managing vast forest areas.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

○ It has not only improved forest health but also forest conservation and the risks associated
contributed to poverty alleviation and social with wildfires.
cohesion. ● Collaboration with Authorities: The community
● Participatory Forest Management in Tanzania: has established strong ties with local forest
In Tanzania, participatory forest management has departments and other relevant authorities.
empowered local communities to take charge of ○ It ensures that the efforts of the villagers are
forest resources, leading to reduced deforestation supported by professional expertise and resources.
rates and increased community resilience.

Challenges BANKING ON FLAWED DRUG VOLUNTARY

● Institutional Support: Effective CBFM requires LICENCES
strong institutional support and legal frameworks to
ensure the rights and responsibilities of Context
communities are recognized and protected. ● The Medicines Patent Pool is pushing for more
● Resource Allocation: Adequate funding and voluntary licenses, but its bad deal with Novartis on
resources are essential for capacity-building and a cancer drug shows the pitfalls
implementing sustainable practices.
About
○ Ensuring that communities have access to
these resources is crucial for the success of ● The concept of voluntary licences (VLs) in the
CBFM initiatives. pharmaceutical industry is often hailed as a solution
to improve access to essential medicines in low- and
● Challenge of Wildfires: Uttarakhand has been middle-income countries (LMICs).
grappling with frequent wildfires, which have
caused significant damage to its forest cover. ● However, a closer examination reveals that the
system is fraught with challenges and inefficiencies.
○ The state loses thousands of hectares of forest
each year due to these fires, which are often Illusion of Access
exacerbated by human activities and climate
● Voluntary licences are agreements where patent
change.
holders allow generic manufacturers to produce and
○ The traditional approach to firefighting has sell their drugs at lower prices in LMICs.
involved government agencies and external
● While this sounds promising, the reality is often
support, but the involvement of local
different. A case in point is the Medicines Patent
communities has proven to be a game-changer.
Pool's (MPP) deal with Novartis on the cancer drug
Key Strategies nilotinib.

● Fire Prevention: The villagers have implemented ● Despite the fanfare surrounding the deal, it was later
preventive measures such as clearing dry leaves and revealed that nilotinib was no longer under patent
branches, creating firebreaks, and conducting protection, rendering the VL unnecessary.
regular patrols to detect and address potential fire
Pitfalls of Voluntary Licensing
hazards.
● Patent Thickets: Many new drugs are surrounded
● Training and Awareness: Community members
by multiple patents, making it difficult for generic
have been trained in firefighting techniques and the
manufacturers to navigate the complex intellectual
use of equipment.
property landscape.
○ Awareness campaigns have been conducted to
○ It can delay the production and distribution of
educate villagers about the importance of
affordable medicines.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

● Secondary Patents: Innovator companies often Historical Background

secure secondary patents to extend the exclusivity
● The roots of meteorology in India can be traced
period of their drugs, further complicating the VL
back to ancient times, with early philosophical texts
process.
discussing weather phenomena.
● Limited Scope: VLs often cover only a fraction of
● However, modern meteorology gained scientific
the global market, leaving many patients without
grounding in the 17th century with the invention of
access to affordable medicines.
instruments like the thermometer and barometer.
● Regulatory Hurdles: Generic manufacturers must
● The establishment of IMD in 1875 was a response
navigate stringent regulatory requirements to gain
to the devastating cyclones that hit Kolkata and
approval for their versions of patented drugs, which
the Andhra coast in 1864, highlighting the need
can be time-consuming and costly.
for systematic weather monitoring.
Need for Compulsory Licences ○ IMD began its operations with HF Blanford
● Compulsory licences (CLs) are a legal mechanism as the Imperial Meteorological Reporter.
that allows governments to override patents in the ● Over the years, IMD has grown into a
interest of public health. comprehensive organization with permanent
○ Unlike VLs, CLs can be issued without the observatories and automatic weather stations across
consent of the patent holder and can cover a the country.
broader range of drugs. ● Parent Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences,
● However, few developing countries have utilized Government of India.
CLs due to fear of retribution from wealthy nations
Key Functions
where patent holders are based.
● Weather Forecasting: Meteorological departments
Moving Forward provide daily weather forecasts, including
● Strengthening CL Mechanisms: Governments temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and
should be encouraged to use CLs more effectively humidity.
to ensure timely access to affordable drugs. ○ These forecasts are crucial for planning daily
● Enhancing VL Transparency: The VL process activities, agricultural practices, and outdoor
should be more transparent, with clear criteria for events.
selecting generic manufacturers and ensuring that ● Climate Monitoring: These departments monitor
the drugs covered are truly in need of licensing. long-term climate trends and changes, providing
● Global Collaboration: International organizations valuable data for climate research and policy-
and governments should work together to create a making.
more equitable system for drug access, including ○ It helps in understanding global warming, sea-
addressing the root causes of patent thickets and level rise, and other climate-related
secondary patents. phenomena.
● Severe Weather Warnings: Meteorological
150 YEARS OF INDIA METEOROLOGICAL departments issue warnings for severe weather
DEPARTMENT (IMD) events such as cyclones, hurricanes, thunderstorms,
and heatwaves.
Context ○ These warnings help communities prepare and
● Recently, India Meteorological Department (IMD) take necessary precautions to minimize
celebrated its 150th anniversary on January 15, damage and loss of life.
2025.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

● Support for Various Sectors: Meteorological data ● Doppler Weather Radars (DWR): Tracks storms,
is essential for sectors like agriculture, aviation, and rainfall, and wind patterns for accurate weather
disaster management. predictions.
○ Farmers rely on weather forecasts for crop ● Agro-Meteorological Advisory Services (AAS):
planning, while pilots use weather information Provides weather-based advice to farmers for better
for safe navigation. crop planning.
○ Disaster management agencies use weather ● System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting
data to prepare for and respond to natural (SAFAR): Monitors air quality and weather in
disasters. major cities to guide pollution management.

Technological Advancements Challenges and Future Directions

● Modern meteorological departments utilize ● Despite the advancements, meteorological
advanced technologies such as satellites, radar departments face challenges such as funding
systems, and computer models to improve the constraints, data accuracy, and the need for
accuracy of weather forecasts. continuous technological upgrades.
● These technologies enable real-time monitoring of ● To address these challenges, there is a need for
weather conditions and provide detailed information increased investment in meteorological research,
on atmospheric phenomena. collaboration with international organizations, and
public awareness campaigns to emphasize the
Key Achievements importance of weather forecasting.
● A METOX Radio Theodolite ground system used in
1970, showcasing advancements in meteorological CIRCULAR ECONOMY & PLASTIC
surveying techniques;
POLLUTION TREATY
● On February 18, 1911, India’s first flight from
Allahabad to Naini was supported by IMD’s Context
weather information and forecasts;
● The global community is increasingly recognizing
● IMD adopted radar technology at Safdarjung the urgent need to address plastic pollution, a crisis
Airport, New Delhi, in 1958, enhancing weather that threatens ecosystems, human health, and the
tracking and disaster preparedness; planet's future.
● Thiruvananthapuram Observatory, established in ● A key component of the solution lies in embracing
1853, is one of India’s earliest centres for the principles of the circular economy within the
meteorological research; framework of a comprehensive plastic pollution
● Pilot balloon observations, critical for wind data treaty.
measurements, laid the foundation for modern
atmospheric studies; World’s Waste Problem is Growing Fast
● According to the World Bank, over 2 billion tonnes
Major Initiatives of municipal solid waste are produced each year,
● National Monsoon Mission (NMM): Improves and this figure is expected to rise to 3.4 billion
monsoon forecasts to help agriculture, water tonnes by 2050.
management, and disaster planning. ● This rapid increase in waste poses significant
● Mausam App: A mobile app for weather updates, environmental, economic, and public health
forecasts, and severe weather alerts. challenges.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

Causes of the Growing Waste Problem ● Innovate: Designing plastics that are easier to
reuse, recycle, or compost.
● Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to
increased consumption and production of goods. ● Circulate: Ensuring that plastics are kept in use for
as long as possible through recycling and reuse.
● In developing countries, the lack of reliable waste
collection services and proper disposal
infrastructure exacerbates the issue. INTERNATIONAL CARBON EXCHANGE
● Additionally, the proliferation of single-use plastics
Context
and non-biodegradable materials has added to the
waste burden. ● Indonesia launched its international carbon
exchange, allowing foreign investors to buy carbon
Environmental Impact credits generated by activities that reduce carbon
● Waste disposal in landfills and open dumps releases dioxide emissions.
harmful greenhouse gases, particularly methane, ○ The initiative is part of Indonesia's
which is 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide. commitment to achieving carbon neutrality
● Plastic waste, in particular, poses a major threat to by 2050 and closing coal power plants by
marine ecosystems, with millions of seabirds and 2040.
marine mammals falling victim to plastic debris
About the International Carbon Exchange
each year.
● It involves the buying and selling of carbon credits,
Understanding the Circular Economy which represent a reduction of one metric ton of
● The circular economy is a sustainable economic carbon dioxide or its equivalent in other greenhouse
model that aims to eliminate waste and the continual gases.
use of resources. ● These credits can be generated from various
○ It contrasts with the traditional linear economy, projects, such as reforestation, renewable energy,
which follows a 'take, make, dispose' and energy efficiency initiatives.
approach. ● By purchasing carbon credits, companies and
● Instead, the circular economy focuses on designing individuals can compensate for their emissions and
products for longevity, reuse, and recycling, support climate-friendly projects around the world.
keeping materials in use for as long as possible and
Key Players in International Carbon Exchange
regenerating natural systems.
● United Nations Framework Convention on
Role of a Plastic Pollution Treaty Climate Change (UNFCCC): The UNFCCC
● A plastic pollution treaty, currently under oversees the Clean Development Mechanism
negotiation at the United Nations, seeks to establish (CDM), which issues Certified Emission
legally binding global rules to tackle plastic Reductions (CERs) for emission reduction projects
pollution comprehensively. in developing countries.

● This treaty aims to address the entire life cycle of ○ The UNFCCC also partners with platforms like
plastics, from production to disposal, and promote the AirCarbon Exchange to promote carbon
sustainable practices. offsetting.
● International Carbon Action Partnership
Integrating Circular Economy Principles (ICAP): ICAP is a global forum for governments
● Eliminate: Reducing the production and use of and public authorities that have implemented or are
unnecessary plastics. planning to implement emissions trading systems
(ETS).

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

○ It provides a platform for sharing best practices ● As the world moves towards a low-carbon future,
and promoting the development of carbon international carbon exchange will play a vital role
markets. in achieving global climate goals. By fostering
● Carbon Trade Exchange (CTX): CTX is a digital collaboration and innovation, carbon markets can
carbon offsetting exchange that allows buyers and drive significant progress in the fight against
sellers to trade carbon credits in a transparent and climate change.
secure manner.
PRELIMS
○ It offers a wide range of certified carbon
offsets and supports projects that contribute to
global climate goals. PRESIDENTIAL ACTIONS OF DONALD
● Down To Earth Carbon (DTEC): DTEC focuses TRUMP AS 46TH POTUS
on ecosystem restoration and climate change
mitigation through afforestation and reforestation Context
projects. ● Just hours after his second (and final) term began on
○ It works with smallholder farmers and January 20, US President Donald Trump unleashed
indigenous communities to restore degraded 46 presidential actions.
land and enhance carbon capture. ● Several of these are centred on the US’ climate
commitments, energy transition, migration and trade
Benefits of International Carbon Exchange
policies, and are likely to have negative global
● Climate Mitigation: By supporting emission implications.
reduction projects, carbon exchange helps mitigate
climate change and reduce the overall carbon About
footprint. ● Climate Commitments: Trump declared the
● Sustainable Development: Carbon projects often withdrawal of the US from the 2015 global Paris
bring additional benefits, such as job creation, agreement to limit global greenhouse gas emissions,
improved air and water quality, and enhanced and revoked the US International Climate Finance
biodiversity. Plan.
● Corporate Responsibility: Companies can ○ The US would also withdraw from other
demonstrate their commitment to sustainability by international climate pacts and financial
offsetting their emissions and investing in climate- commitments under the UN Framework
friendly projects. Convention on Climate Change.
● Market Efficiency: Carbon markets enable cost- ● Out of World Health Organization (WHO):
effective solutions for reducing emissions, allowing Trump withdrew the US from who citing reasons
entities to meet their climate targets in a financially like the global health agency’s failure to handle the
viable manner. novel coronavirus pandemic.
○ It could cost WHO $130 million in annual
Challenges and Future Outlook
funds and hinder global public health response.
● While international carbon exchange holds great
● Domestic Energy Push: Trump declared a national
promise, it also faces challenges such as ensuring
‘energy emergency’ and called for reviews and
the integrity of carbon credits, avoiding double
plans to counter activities that hinder domestic
counting, and promoting transparency in the market.
energy development, including from fossil fuels.
○ Addressing these challenges will be crucial for
○ The orders halt some wind energy projects,
the continued growth and effectiveness of
revoke 12 clean energy initiatives launched
carbon markets.
during the Joseph Biden administration and

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

pause fund disbursal under the Inflation Transmission

Reduction Act.
● Direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected
● Curbs on Immigration: The slew of orders individuals, contaminated surfaces, or handling of
announced include a revoke of birthright infected animals, such as fruit bats of the
citizenship, closure of borders, strengthened policies Pteropodidae family.
to trace illegal immigrants and restrict visas, and
● Human-to-human transmission occurs through close
realigning refugee resettlement in the US.
contact with infected individuals' blood, saliva,
○ Separately, Trump imposed 25% tariffs on vomit, or urine.
imports from Canada and Mexico, saying
the two countries failed to tackle the illegal Prevention and Control
movement of people and narcotics into the US. ● Avoiding contact with infected individuals or
animals, using personal protective equipment, and
● Stance on Gender: With an aim to reverse adhering to strict hygiene practices.
practices and ideologies that hinder women’s safety,
all federal documents, policies and practices must ● Early supportive care, such as rehydration and
recognise only two genders, “male” or “female”, in symptom management, improves survival rates.
adherence with biological definitions.
TRIBAL MINISTRY DIRECTS STATES TO
● Foreign Trade and Policies: A number of orders
were announced, including a 90-day halt in US
CREATE FRA COMPLIANCE MECHANISM
foreign aid and withdrawal from the Organisation
Context
for Economic Co-operation and Development’s
Global Tax Deal, which calls for a universal ● Recently, the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs
minimum corporate tax. issued a directive, urging states to establish
mechanisms for compliance with the Scheduled
○ US foreign policies are directed to follow an Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers
“America First” approach. (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act (FRA), 2006.
● It comes in response to growing complaints about
MARBURG VIRUS DISEASE illegal evictions of forest dwellers, particularly from
tiger reserves
Context
● Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO)
Background and Directive
announced a suspected outbreak of Marburg virus ● The directive calls for state tribal departments and
disease in Tanzania’s Kagera region, which claimed forest departments to implement institutional
eight lives. mechanisms for upholding the rights of forest
dwellers as mandated by the FRA and other relevant
About the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) laws.

● The Ebola-like virus (Filoviridae family), which ● The ministry emphasized the need to recognize and
causes symptoms such as high fever, headache, address the rights of these communities, especially
diarrhoea and bleeding, has a high fatality rate of in light of recent evictions from tiger reserves.
89%.
Concerns Over Evictions
● First identified in 1967 in Marburg and Frankfurt, ● The directive follows a 2024 directive by the
Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia, MVD has since National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA),
caused sporadic outbreaks across sub-Saharan which ordered the relocation of villagers from tiger
Africa. reserves.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

● It impacted 89,808 families across 848 villages

across the country, calling for their relocation on a
‘priority basis’ with time-bound action plans.
● So far, 257 villages, comprising 25,007 families,
have been relocated, but 591 villages, home to
64,801 families, remain within notified core areas.

Legal Protections Under FRA ● These birds are found in central Eurosiberia,
● The FRA provides legal protections for forest- ranging from the Black Sea to Mongolia and
dwelling Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Northeast China.
Forest Dwellers (OTFDs), recognizing their rights ● They migrate to the Indian subcontinent during the
to land and resources. winter, making it a significant wintering ground for
● Section 4 (5) of the Act prohibits the eviction or these graceful birds.
removal of forest-dwelling communities until their ● Khichan, a village in Rajasthan, India, is a
rights have been recognized and verified. notable wintering site for these cranes, attracting
● The FRA also mandates obtaining free, prior, and around 20,000 birds annually.
informed consent (FPIC) from Gram Sabhas ● Conservation efforts are crucial to protect their
before any resettlement or relocation is undertaken. habitats from threats like habitat loss, human
disturbance, and collisions with power lines.
Grievance Redressal Mechanism
● The ministry's directive also calls for the Status:
establishment of a grievance redressal framework to ○ IUCN Red List: Least Concern
address complaints related to eviction and relocation ○ CITES: Appendix II; CMS II
efforts transparently.
● It aims to ensure that the rights of forest dwellers Cultural Significance
are upheld and that any resettlement is carried out ● In India, Demoiselle Cranes hold symbolic
with their informed consent and participation. significance and are celebrated in local culture.
● The village of Khichan has become a haven for
DEMOISELLE CRANES these birds, thanks to the dedicated efforts of its
residents who feed and care for the cranes.
Context
● According to state authorities, some 33 migratory NATIONAL EDIBLE OIL CONSUMPTION
Demoiselle cranes died after contracting the
H5N1 avian influenza virus in Jaisalmer,
SURVEY
Rajasthan.
Context
About the Demoiselle Cranes (Grus Virgo, aka ● Recently, the Union Ministry of Agriculture and
‘Kurja’ in India) Farmers Welfare launched its first-ever national
● These are one of the smallest crane species, known survey to assess edible oil consumption patterns in
for their long migratory journeys. the country.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

About the National Edible Oil Consumption Survey

● It aims to capture the consumption patterns and
preferences of edible oils across the country, and
gather critical data to support the implementation of
the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds
(NMEO-Oilseeds).
● The survey aims to address this issue by providing
up-to-date data on consumption patterns, which will
be crucial for policy decisions and public health
initiatives

Significance of the Survey Understanding Hydroclimate Whiplash

● India is the world's largest consumer and ● Hydroclimate whiplash refers to the rapid swings
importer of edible oils, with per capita annual between intensely wet and dangerously dry
consumption rising to over 20 kg, significantly weather patterns.
exceeding the recommended limits of 12 kg by the ● It has been exacerbated by climate change, leading
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and to more frequent and severe weather extremes.
13 kg by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
● In the case of Los Angeles, the region experienced
● The survey aims to address this issue by providing two consecutive wet winters, followed by an
up-to-date data on consumption patterns, which will exceptionally dry summer and early fall.
be crucial for policy decisions and public health ● This sequence of events created the perfect
initiatives. conditions for wildfires.

NMEO-Oilseeds Mission Role of Climate Change

● It, with a financial outlay of ₹10,103 crore over ● As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere's ability
seven years, aims to increase domestic oilseed to evaporate, absorb, and release water increases,
production from 39 million tonnes in 2022-23 to leading to more extreme weather patterns.
69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31. ● In California, this has resulted in periods of heavy
● The mission focuses on boosting the production of rainfall followed by prolonged droughts.
oilseed crops like soybean, groundnut, mustard, and ● The excessive rainfall promotes the growth of
palm oil, and promoting self-reliance in edible oil vegetation, which later dries out and becomes
production. highly flammable during dry periods.

HYDROCLIMATE WHIPLASH Impact on Wildfires

● The wet winters of 2022-23 led to abundant grass
Context and brush growth.
● The three wildfires that have devastated large parts ● However, the record-hot summer and dry start to the
of the Los Angeles city and surrounding areas in the 2025 rainy season turned this vegetation into tinder-
United States, occurred due to rare meteorological dry fuel for wildfires.
conditions enhanced by global warming and ● The combination of dry vegetation and strong Santa
consequent climate change, mainly due to a Ana winds created the perfect conditions for the
‘hydroclimate whiplash’. fires to spread rapidly.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

Addressing the Challenge ○ They are diurnal and arboreal. They are
omnivorous.
● To mitigate the impact of hydroclimate whiplash
and reduce the risk of wildfires, it is crucial to adopt
a co-management approach that addresses both
extreme rainfall and droughts.
● It includes implementing measures to manage
vegetation growth, improving water storage and
conservation practices, and enhancing early warning
systems for extreme weather events.

HOLLONGAPAR GIBBON SANCTUARY

● Types in India: Eastern and Western hoolock
Context gibbons.

● In a controversial decision, the Standing ● Threats: The primary threat to the hoolock gibbon
Committee of the National Board for Wildlife is the deforestation caused by infrastructure
(NBWL) has approved exploratory drilling for oil projects.
and gas within the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of the ● Conservation Status:
Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary in ○ IUCN Status:
Assam.
■ Western hoolock gibbon Endangered
About ■ Eastern hoolock gibbon Vulnerable
○ Schedule I of Wildlife Protection Act 1972

STEEL SLAG

Context
● With simple curing, steel slag can be used in
construction activities to replace river sand and
natural aggregates

About the Steel Slag

● Steel slag, often perceived as a waste product from
steel manufacturing, is a byproduct that holds
immense potential for environmental sustainability.
● Steel slag is generated during the steelmaking
process, where impurities are separated from molten
● The Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, steel. The production of virgin steel typically
named after the country’s only ape species, the follows a two-step process:
Hoolock gibbon, is a vital refuge for biodiversity. ○ Blast Furnace (BF) Process: Pig iron is
● Gibbons are the smallest and fastest of all apes. extracted from iron ore in a blast furnace,
producing molten slag.
● The hoolock gibbon, unique to India’s northeast,
is one of 20 species of gibbons found in tropical and ○ Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) Process: Pig
subtropical forests in Southeast Asia. iron is refined in a basic oxygen furnace to

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

produce steel, with slag generated as a construction aggregates and slag fines suitable
byproduct. for cement making and agricultural
● According to the ‘Indian Minerals Yearbook applications.
2022’ by the Union Ministry of Mines, producing ○ In 2022, it set up the world's first steel slag-to-
one tonne of pig iron generates 300 to 540 kg of sand facility, recycling 0.27 million tonnes of
blast furnace slag, while producing one tonne of steel slag annually and reducing demand for
liquid steel results in 150 to 200 kg of BOF slag. river sand by 0.2-0.3 million tonnes.

Innovative Uses of Steel Slag Environmental Challenges of Steel Slag

● BOF slag, in particular, contains free lime, which
● Construction Materials: reacts with moisture to form calcium hydroxide,
○ Bhilai Steel Plant: This leading to volume expansion and cracking in
plant in Chhattisgarh, construction applications.
India, is conducting trials
to replace river sand with ● Additionally, its high phosphorous content and
specific gravity can prolong the setting time of
steel slag in runners. If
successful, this initiative concrete and reduce its strength.
could save the plant Rs 29
● These properties make BOF slag less suitable for
million annually and
traditional construction uses compared to blast
conserve 25,000 tonnes of
furnace slag, which has cementitious properties and
river sand.
is widely used in the cement industry.
○ Paver Blocks: The plant
also initiated a pilot Recommendations
project to produce paver
blocks by replacing stone ● The Bureau of Indian Standards and Union Ministry
chips with steel slag, of Steel need to set standards for steel slag usage.
resulting in cost savings
● Ensure that the plants utilise the current generation
and reduced reliance on
slags within one year and legacy slags by September
natural aggregates.
2027.
● Metal Recovery and Product
● Steam ageing should be considered for maturing of
Innovation:
steel slag.
○ Tata Steel Plant,
Jamshedpur: The plant ● The government should prepare a model of supply
recovers metal elements chain to ensure that matured steel slag is used for
from steel slag for reuse road construction.
and selling. It has also set
up an open steam ageing MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE AS A VIABLE
plant to accelerate the
natural ageing process of OPTION TO SUPPLEMENT COAL AS FUEL IN
non-metallic components. CEMENT PLANTS
● Technological Advancements: Context
○ JSW Steel Ltd, Vijaynagar: This plant has ● Municipal solid waste can be converted as a viable
developed technologies to produce option to supplement coal as fuel in cement plants.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

About ● Economic Viability:

● Municipal solid waste, often seen as a burden on ○ Cost Savings: RDF can be a cost-effective
landfills and waste management systems, can be alternative to coal, especially in regions where
transformed into a valuable waste disposal costs are high. Cement plants
resource. can save on fuel costs by incorporating MSW
into their energy mix.
● The Central Pollution
Control Board’s ○ Resource Optimization: By using locally
(CPCB’s) annual report available MSW, cement plants can reduce their
for 2020-21 says about dependence on imported coal, enhancing
95% of municipal solid energy security and promoting local resource
waste is collected, of which utilization.
50% (29 million tonnes) is ● Energy Efficiency:
treated either in waste-to-
○ High Calorific Value: RDF has a high
energy or compost plants,
calorific value, making it an efficient fuel for
or used as rdf in cement
cement kilns. It ensures that the energy content
industries.
of the fuel is effectively utilized in the
● In 2014, the erstwhile production process.
Planning Commission
○ Process Integration: The cement
estimated that of the 62
manufacturing process involves high-
million tonnes of municipal
temperature operations, which are well-suited
solid waste generated in
for the combustion of RDF.
urban India, 12 million
tonnes can potentially be
Challenges and Considerations
converted into rdf,
replacing 8 million tonnes
● Quality Control:
of coal.
● By converting MSW into ○ Variability of Waste Composition: MSW
refuse-derived fuel (RDF), composition can vary significantly, affecting
cement plants can reduce their reliance on the consistency and quality of RDF. Cement
traditional fossil fuels like coal, thereby lowering plants need to implement robust quality control
greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to measures to ensure the uniformity of RDF.
environmental sustainability. ○ Pre-treatment Requirements: MSW requires
pre-treatment to remove non-combustible
Benefits of Using MSW as Fuel
materials and contaminants, adding to the
● Environmental Impact: operational complexity.
○ Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
Using MSW as an alternative fuel can ● Regulatory and Safety Issues:
significantly reduce the carbon footprint of
cement production. This is because RDF has a ○ Compliance with Regulations: Cement plants
lower carbon content compared to coal. must adhere to stringent environmental
regulations and safety standards when using
○ Waste Reduction: Utilizing MSW in cement MSW as fuel. It includes monitoring emissions
kilns helps reduce the volume of waste sent to and ensuring proper waste handling
landfills, alleviating the pressure on waste procedures.
management systems.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

○ Health and Safety Concerns: Handling and for its pozzolanic properties, which means it
processing MSW can pose health and safety reacts with calcium hydroxide to form
risks to workers, necessitating appropriate cementitious compounds.
protective measures and training.
○ Class C Fly Ash: Contains higher calcium
content and is produced from burning sub-
Recommendations bituminous or lignite coal. It can exhibit
● A new draft notification for Solid Waste cementitious properties on its own and is often
Management Rules, 2024 notifying standards used in concrete mixes.
of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) quality. The
government should implement it.
Applications of Fly Ash
● Include RDF specifications in urban local
bodies’ tenders for solid waste management. ● Concrete Production: Fly ash is widely used as a
supplementary cementitious material in concrete. It
● Lack of communication and coordination
improves the workability, durability, and strength of
among players in the RDF supply chain hinder
concrete while reducing permeability.
efforts to scale up. Industries, municipal
corporations and third-party agencies should ● Road Construction: Fly ash can be used as a filler
come together to sort issues of logistics, material in asphalt and as a base or sub-base
costing and other concerns. material in road construction. It helps reduce dust
emissions and enhances the stability of road
COAL COMBUSTION RESIDUE (FLY ASH) IN surfaces.

CEMENT-MAKING ● Brick and Tile Manufacturing: Fly ash can be

incorporated into the production of bricks and tiles,
Context reducing the need for virgin materials and
promoting sustainable manufacturing.
● Use of the coal combustion
● Soil Stabilization: Fly ash can be used to stabilize
residues (CCR) in cement-making
soils in construction projects, improving the load-
and road construction can curb
bearing capacity and reducing erosion.
fugitive dust emissions
● Filler in Paints and Plasters: Fly ash can be used
About Fly Ash as a filler in paints, adhesives, and plasters,
● Coal combustion residues, such enhancing their properties and reducing the use of
as fly ash and bottom ash, are by- natural resources.
products of coal combustion in
power plants. These are composed
of fine particles that are driven out Benefits of Using Coal Combustion Residue
of coal-fired boilers along with flue
● Reduction of Fugitive Dust Emissions: By
gases.
incorporating CCRs in cement-making and road
● Fly ash is categorized into two construction, the generation of fugitive dust can be
main types: Class F and Class C. significantly reduced.
○ Class F Fly Ash: Contains ○ The stable nature of CCRs minimizes the
low calcium content and is release of particulate matter into the
typically produced from atmosphere, improving air quality and
burning anthracite or reducing health risks.
bituminous coal. It is known

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

● Environmental Benefits: Process of Flue Gas Desulphurisation

● Flue gas desulphurisation
○ Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
is a method used to
By substituting a portion of Portland cement
remove sulfur dioxide
with fly ash in concrete production, the cement
(SO2) from exhaust flue
industry can significantly reduce its carbon
gases of fossil-fuel power
footprint.
plants.
○ Waste Reduction: Utilizing fly ash helps
divert this byproduct from landfills, reducing
● It involves the use of an
the environmental impact of waste disposal.
aqueous slurry of
○ Resource Conservation: Fly ash can replace limestone (calcium
natural aggregates in construction materials, carbonate) or lime
conserving natural resources and promoting (calcium oxide) that reacts
sustainable building practices. with SO2 to form calcium
sulfite, which is then
● Economic Benefits: The use of CCRs can lead to oxidized to produce
cost savings for the cement and construction gypsum (calcium sulfate
industries. dihydrate).

○ By substituting expensive virgin materials with ● It can be further processed

CCRs, companies can reduce production costs and utilized in various
and improve their bottom line. industries.

Recommendations Benefits of Using FGD Gypsum

● Environmental Benefits: Utilizing FGD gypsum
● Implement provisions of the Fly Ash Notification to helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills
their full potential. As per a report by the Central and minimizes the environmental impact of sulfur
Electricity Authority for 2021-22, about 4% of fly dioxide emissions.
ash is dumped. Proper monitoring and auditing of
○ By repurposing this by-product, industries can
plants will promote use.
contribute to a circular economy and reduce
● Thermal power plants should consider all possible their carbon footprint.
modes of fly ash utilisation and implement ● Economic Viability: FGD gypsum is a cost-
measures to increase it. effective alternative to natural gypsum, which is
often mined in limited quantities and can be
● Develop fly ash-based industries and ensure expensive.
availability of the resource. Create and scale up
markets for fly ash-based construction materials. ○ The availability of FGD gypsum provides a
steady and affordable supply for industries that
require gypsum, such as the construction and
FLUE GAS DESULPHURISATION GYPSUM agriculture sectors.

(FGD GYPSUM) ● Resource Conservation: By using FGD gypsum,

industries can reduce their reliance on natural
gypsum reserves, which are finite and subject to
Context depletion.
● Gypsum produced during flue gas desulphurisation ○ It helps conserve natural resources and
is a viable alternative to the rare natural mineral. promotes sustainable practices.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

Applications of FGD Gypsum Composition of Red Mud

● Construction Industry: FGD gypsum is widely ● Red mud, also known as bauxite residue, is
used in the production of plaster, plasterboard, and generated during the Bayer process, which is used
cement. to extract alumina from bauxite ore.
○ Its properties make it an excellent substitute for ● The residue is a fine, reddish-brown material that
natural gypsum in these applications. contains various oxides, including iron oxide
(Fe2O3), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), and silicon
● Agriculture: FGD gypsum can be used as a soil dioxide (SiO2).
amendment to improve soil structure and fertility.
○ It provides essential nutrients such as calcium Benefits of Using Red Mud in Cement Production
and sulfur, which are beneficial for crop ● Resource Utilization: By repurposing red mud,
growth. industries can reduce the environmental impact
associated with its disposal.
● Waste Management: The use of FGD gypsum in
waste management processes can help stabilize and ○ Utilizing this by-
solidify hazardous waste, reducing the risk of product as an iron
environmental contamination. additive in cement
production promotes
Recommendations the efficient use of
● As per the Central Pollution Control Board’s resources and
(CPCB’s) Guidelines for Handling and supports circular
Management of Flue Gas Desulphurization economy principles.
(FGD) Gypsum, power plants need to utilise a ● Cost-Effectiveness: Red
minimum of 25% of FGD gypsum, and eventually mud is often available at a
all of it. lower cost compared to
○ Complete utilisation, ensured by regular traditional iron additives,
assessments of plants by CPCB and state making it an economically
pollution control boards, is recommended. viable option for cement
manufacturers.
● National Thermal Power Corporation’s initiatives
with other agencies to expand application of FGD ● Environmental Impact:
gypsum should be promoted and emulated by Incorporating red mud into
similar efforts. cement production helps
reduce the amount of
● CPCB should alleviate the process to transport FGD
waste sent to landfills,
gypsum by industries for further research and to
thereby minimizing the
upscale its usage.
environmental footprint of
both the alumina and
RED MUD: IRON ADDITIVE IN CEMENT cement industries.
PRODUCTION ○ Additionally, it reduces the need for mining
and processing of natural iron ores,
Context conserving natural resources.
● Over 40% of red mud is iron oxide which makes it ● Enhanced Cement Properties: The presence of
an ideal substitute for iron additive in cement iron oxide in red mud contributes to the strength and
production. durability of cement.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

○ Studies have shown that using red mud as an ○ Bagasse is primarily used as a biofuel in
additive can improve the mechanical properties cogeneration plants to produce electricity and
of cement, making it suitable for various steam.
construction applications. ○ Additionally, it serves as a raw material for
paper, packaging, and building materials.
Recommendations
● Press Mud: Also known as
● Study feasibility of usage of red mud in areas such
filter cake, press mud is the
as road making, construction activities.
residual sludge obtained
● The Bureau of Indian Standards should define what from the filtration of
standard of red mud is required for what type of sugarcane juice.
usage to upscale its utilisation.
○ It contains organic
● Usage of red mud as an alternative to commercial matter, nutrients, and
catalysts should be explored. micronutrients, making
● Tests show red mud can be used in manufacture of it an excellent soil
X-ray shielding tiles and for extraction of rare earth conditioner and
elements. These need to be studied. fertilizer.
○ Press mud can also be
BAGASSE, PRESS MUD AND MOLASSES used in biogas
production,
Context contributing to
renewable energy
● The sugar and distillery industry generates bagasse, generation.
press mud and molasses, all of which can be
completely reused within the sector ● Molasses: It is a viscous by-
product of the sugar refining
About process, containing sugars,
vitamins, and minerals.
● The sugar and distillery industry is one of the
most resource-intensive sectors, generating ○ It serves as a valuable
significant quantities of by-products such as feedstock for the
bagasse, press mud, and molasses. distillery industry,
where it is fermented to
produce ethanol.
● Traditionally seen as waste, these by-products
○ Molasses is also used
hold potential for reuse within the sector,
in animal feed, food
contributing to a circular economy and promoting
products, and
sustainable practices.
pharmaceuticals.
● By effectively harnessing these resources, the
industry can reduce waste, lower environmental Reusing By-Products Within the Sector
impact, and enhance economic viability. ● Cogeneration with Bagasse: One of the most
efficient ways to utilize bagasse is through
Understanding the By-Products cogeneration, where it is burned in boilers to
● Bagasse: It is the fibrous residue left after produce steam and electricity.
extracting juice from sugarcane. It constitutes about
○ This not only meets the energy requirements of
30% of the sugarcane's weight and is rich in
sugar mills but also allows surplus electricity
cellulose and lignin.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

to be sold to the grid, generating additional About

revenue.
● Biomass, derived from organic materials such as
○ Bagasse-based cogeneration significantly agricultural residues, forestry waste, and dedicated
reduces the industry's reliance on fossil fuels energy crops, offers a viable and eco-friendly
and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. alternative to coal.
● Press Mud as Organic Fertilizer: Press mud's high ● It encompasses a variety of organic materials that
organic content and nutrient profile make it an ideal can be converted into energy through processes
organic fertilizer for sugarcane fields. such as combustion, gasification, and anaerobic
○ When applied to soil, it enhances soil fertility, digestion.
improves water retention, and promotes ● However, the widespread adoption of biomass as a
healthy crop growth. fuel hinges on the development of a robust supply
○ Using press mud as a fertilizer reduces the chain that can ensure consistent availability, quality,
need for chemical fertilizers, contributing to and economic viability.
sustainable agriculture practices.
Key Components of a Robust Biomass Supply
● Ethanol Production from Molasses: Molasses is a Chain
key feedstock for the production of ethanol, an ● Feedstock Sourcing: It
important biofuel. includes agricultural residues
○ Ethanol production from molasses not only (e.g., straw, husks), forestry
provides an alternative to fossil fuels but also by-products (e.g., sawdust,
supports the production of by-products such as wood chips), and dedicated
biogas and bio-compost. energy crops (e.g.,
switchgrass, miscanthus).
○ The integration of ethanol production with
sugar mills creates a closed-loop system, ○ Collaboration with
minimizing waste and maximizing resource farmers, foresters, and
efficiency. landowners is essential
to ensure a steady supply
Recommendations of biomass feedstock.

● Upscale use of press mud as feedstock to ● Collection and

manufacture compressed biogas (CBG). Transportation: Investments
in infrastructure, such as
● Develop pipeline infrastructure to tap the potential
collection centers, storage
of CBG.
facilities, and transportation
● Use spent wash along with bagasse as boiler fuel in networks, can help minimize
distillery complex. losses and ensure timely
● Promote usage of surplus bagasse in industrial co- delivery of biomass to
firing. processing facilities.
○ Developing regional hubs for biomass
BIOMASS: AN ALTERNATE FUEL TO COAL aggregation can reduce transportation costs and
enhance supply chain efficiency.
Context ● Processing and Quality Control: It includes
● Develop a robust supply chain to promote greater drying, pelletizing, and densifying the biomass to
adoption of biomass as an alternate fuel to coal improve its energy content and handling
characteristics.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

○ Implementing stringent quality control ● Ensure a demand-supply balance for biomass with
measures ensures that the processed biomass incentives for pellet manufacturing units and
meets the specifications needed for efficient encourage farmers to set up such plants.
combustion or gasification.
● Market Integration: It requires establishing supply HAZARDOUS WASTE IN CEMENT INDUSTRY
agreements with power plants, industrial users, and
other end-users.
○ Policies and incentives that promote biomass Context
adoption, such as feed-in tariffs, renewable ● Waste generated from
energy credits, and carbon pricing, can further myriad industries can be
enhance market integration. used as raw material and fuel
● Sustainability and Certification: Implementing in cement plants.
certification schemes that verify the environmental
and social impacts of biomass production can Nature of Hazardous Waste
promote responsible sourcing practices. ● Hazardous waste
○ Additionally, life cycle assessments can help encompasses a wide range of
quantify the greenhouse gas emissions and materials generated from
energy balance of biomass supply chains. various industries, including
chemicals, pharmaceuticals,
Case Studies and Success Stories petroleum refining, and
metal processing.
● Denmark has invested heavily in biomass for
district heating and power generation, with over ● These wastes often contain
70% of its district heating sourced from biomass. toxic, flammable, corrosive,
or reactive substances,
○ It has established a well-coordinated supply
requiring careful handling
chain, involving farmers, cooperatives, and
and disposal.
energy companies, to ensure a steady supply of
high-quality biomass. ● Traditional disposal methods, such as landfilling
and incineration, pose environmental risks and
● In India, the ‘National Policy on Biofuels’ aims to
contribute to resource depletion.
promote the use of biomass and other renewable
sources for energy production.
Benefits of Using Hazardous Waste in Cement
○ It includes measures to develop biomass Plants
supply chains, such as financial incentives for
● Resource Recovery: Cement plants can serve as
biomass-based power projects and support for
resource recovery facilities by incorporating
research and development.
hazardous waste into their production processes.
Key Recommendations ○ It reduces the need for virgin raw materials,
● Develop a national inventory of biomass generation such as limestone, clay, and shale, conserving
and availability to overcome the dearth and non- natural resources and minimizing
uniformity of currently available information. environmental impact.

● Build a robust supply chain for biomass to aid ● Energy Efficiency: Many types of hazardous
thermal power plants that claim inadequacy of waste, such as waste solvents, used oils, and
biomass pellet suppliers and enable government industrial sludge, have high calorific values and can
policies so that their full potential can be realised. be used as alternative fuels in cement kilns.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

○ Utilizing these wastes as fuel reduces the ○ Setting up common hazardous waste
consumption of fossil fuels, lowering management facilities in industrial clusters will
greenhouse gas emissions and promoting help.
energy efficiency.
● Safe Disposal: The high temperatures and STONE SLURRY & ITS APPLICATIONS
controlled conditions in cement kilns ensure the
complete destruction of hazardous constituents in Context
the waste, converting them into non-toxic ● Slurry generated from cutting and polishing of
compounds. stones can be used to make cement, tiles.
○ It provides a safe and effective disposal
method for hazardous waste, preventing Composition of Stone Slurry
environmental contamination. ● Stone slurry is a by-product of the
● Economic Viability: The use of hazardous waste as cutting and polishing processes used
raw material and fuel can lead to significant cost to shape and finish natural stones
savings for cement plants. such as marble, granite, and
○ By reducing the need for traditional raw limestone.
materials and fuels, cement manufacturers can ● It primarily consists of fine stone
lower production costs and enhance their particles suspended in water, along
profitability. with residues of polishing agents.

Applications and Success Stories ● The high content of calcium

carbonate, silica, and other minerals
● The European Cement Association
present in the slurry makes it a
(CEMBUREAU) has reported that cement plants in
valuable resource for various
the region co-process around 15% of hazardous
construction applications.
waste, contributing to resource recovery and waste
management.
Benefits of Using Stone Slurry in
● Cement Manufacturers' Association (CMA) in Cement and Tiles
India has been actively promoting the use of
hazardous waste as a raw material and fuel in ● Resource Utilization: Repurposing
cement plants. stone slurry as a raw material for
cement and tiles helps reduce the
Recommendations extraction and consumption of
● Currently, the cost of pre-processing is virgin raw materials such as
approximately R6,000 per tonne while that of limestone and clay.
disposal is around R4,000 a tonne.
○ It promotes resource conservation and
○ Regulating these expenses will encourage minimizes the environmental impact of mining
industries, particularly small ones that generate activities.
lesser quantities of waste, to opt for co-
processing. ● Waste Reduction: By utilizing stone slurry in the
● Cement plants that do not have pre-processing and production of cement and tiles, the stone industry
waste storage facilities do not accept waste from can significantly reduce the amount of waste
industries that generate it in small quantities. generated.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

○ It helps alleviate the burden on landfills and ● In recent years, India has made significant strides in
mitigates the environmental pollution improving its wastepaper collection rate, bringing it
associated with slurry disposal. closer to the global average.
● However, there remains substantial scope for
● Cost-Effectiveness: Using stone slurry as a raw improvement to achieve higher efficiency and
material can lead to cost savings for manufacturers sustainability in the recycling sector.
by reducing the need for conventional raw
materials. Current Status of Wastepaper Collection in India
● India's wastepaper collection rate currently stands at
○ The availability of slurry as a by-product
approximately 45%, which is close to the global
makes it a cost-effective option for cement and
average of around 50%.
tile production.
● It is a result of increased awareness, government
● Enhanced Product Properties: The mineral initiatives, and the efforts of various stakeholders,
composition of stone slurry can enhance the including non-governmental organizations (NGOs),
properties of cement and tiles, such as strength, recyclers, and the paper industry.
durability, and aesthetic appeal. ● Its emphasis on circular economy principles has
○ Research has shown that incorporating stone also contributed to the progress in wastepaper
slurry into cement and tiles can improve their recycling.
performance and quality.
Benefits of Wastepaper Recycling
Key Recommendations ● Resource Conservation:
● Upscale stone slurry utilisation in cement and tile- Recycling wastepaper
making, and explore alternative applications. Stone reduces the need for virgin
slurry can be used in wall putty, pesticides, pulp, conserving forests and
production of lime and bricks. natural resources.
● Establish regional waste management facilities for ○ It also decreases the
effective collection and transportation of the waste environmental impact
to enable its utilisation by different plants and associated with
facilities. deforestation and paper
production.
● Recognise its potential value in different industries,
and identify plants that can uptake stone slurry. ● Energy and Water Savings:
The recycling process
consumes significantly less
WASTEPAPER RECYCLING IN INDIA energy and water compared
to producing paper from raw
Context
materials.
● India’s wastepaper collection rate is close to the
○ It results in lower
global average, but there is still scope for
greenhouse gas
improvement.
emissions and reduced
About strain on water
resources.
● Wastepaper recycling is an essential component of
sustainable waste management and resource ● Waste Reduction: Efficient wastepaper collection
conservation. and recycling help divert waste from landfills,
reducing landfill space usage and minimizing the

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

environmental pollution caused by decomposing Recommendations

paper waste. ● An integrated system for wastepaper recycling,
● Economic Opportunities: The recycling sector including both the formal and informal sectors
provides employment opportunities and supports the (which handles 95% of wastepaper).
livelihoods of waste collectors, recyclers, and small- ● Develop extended producer responsibility (EPR)
scale entrepreneurs. guidelines.
○ It also contributes to the economy by ● Introduced quality standards for raw materials to
supplying raw materials to the paper industry. optimise percentage of virgin paper used with
recycled paper.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement ● Restrict the usage of imported finished paper by
● Informal Sector Integration: A significant portion increasing the customs duty from the current rate of
of wastepaper collection is managed by the informal 10% to 30%.
sector, which lacks proper infrastructure, training, ● Use alternative materials for secondary applications
and support.
of wastepaper: Agro straw for packaging of fruits;
○ Integrating the informal sector into the formal bamboo-based utensils; use of steel utensils and
waste management system can enhance pattals for roadside eateries.
efficiency and ensure better working
conditions for waste collectors. ROLE OF INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES IN
● Infrastructure Development: Insufficient TACKLING ARIDITY
infrastructure for waste collection, segregation, and
Context
transportation poses a significant challenge.
● For the first time, the UN has recognised the role of
○ Investing in robust and efficient waste indigenous communities in tackling aridity.
management systems, including sorting ○ A repository of traditional knowledge, India
facilities and recycling plants, is crucial for has the wherewithal to lead the way.
improving the collection rate.
About
● Public Awareness and Participation: Raising ● Aridity, characterized by prolonged droughts and
awareness about the importance of wastepaper water scarcity, poses significant challenges to
recycling and encouraging public participation are ecosystems and human livelihoods.
essential for increasing collection rates.
● Indigenous communities, with their deep-rooted
○ Educational campaigns, community initiatives, knowledge and sustainable practices, play a crucial
and incentives can motivate individuals and role in addressing these challenges and promoting
businesses to actively participate in recycling resilience.
efforts.
Traditional Knowledge and Practices
● Policy and Regulation: Strengthening policies and
● Indigenous communities have a wealth of traditional
regulations to support wastepaper recycling is vital.
knowledge that has been passed down through
○ Implementing Extended Producer generations.
Responsibility (EPR) frameworks, providing
● It encompasses sustainable land management
financial incentives for recycling, and
enforcing strict waste management laws can practices, water conservation techniques, and the
use of native plant species that are well-adapted to
drive improvements in the sector.
arid conditions.

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

● For example, many indigenous communities 2. Discuss the significance of a circular economy in
practice rainwater harvesting, terracing, and addressing plastic pollution. How might the
agroforestry, which help to conserve soil moisture principles of a circular economy be integrated into
and improve water availability. an international plastic pollution treaty to create a
sustainable and effective solution?
3. Considering the potential of International Carbon
Exchange markets to address global carbon
emissions, what do you believe are the key
challenges and opportunities for their effective
implementation, and how can these markets ensure
equitable participation from all countries?

MCQS
1. Term ‘nilotinib’ sometimes appeared in the news, is
related to:
Community-Based Approaches
(a) Enzyme
● Indigenous communities often employ community-
(b) Biofuel
based approaches to manage natural resources.
These involve collective decision-making, resource (c) Cancer drug
sharing, and the establishment of local institutions (d) Adhesive
to oversee resource management.
● By working together, these communities can
2. Which one of the following countries recently
implement effective strategies to mitigate the
launched its ‘International Carbon Exchange’?
impacts of aridity and ensure the sustainable use of
natural resources. (a) Egypt
(b) Bangladesh
Policy and Recognition
(c) Philippines
● International frameworks, such as the Sendai
Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the (d) Indonesia
Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity
Framework, emphasize the importance of
3. With reference to the ‘Marburg Virus Disease
indigenous knowledge and practices in conservation
(MVD)’, consider the following statements:
and disaster risk reduction efforts.
1. It is caused by an Ebola-like virus (Filoviridae
● Governments and organizations must work with
family).
indigenous communities to develop policies that
support their sustainable practices and ensure their 2. It is transmitted by direct contact with the
participation in decision-making processes. bodily fluids of infected individuals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
SUBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (a) 1 only
1. How effective do you believe Community-Based (b) 2 only
Forest Management (CBFM) has been in balancing (c) Both 1 and 2
the needs of local communities with the goals of
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
conservation, and what challenges and opportunities
do you see for its future implementation?

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 Summary of Down to Earth [1 – 15 February, 2025]

4. With reference to the ‘Demoiselle Cranes (Grus (c) Both 1 and 2

Virgo, aka ‘Kurja’ in India)’, consider the following (d) Neither 1 nor 2
statements:
1. These are one of the smallest crane species,
known for their long migratory journeys. 5. ‘Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary’,
sometimes appeared in the news, is located in:
2. Khichan, a village in Rajasthan, India, is a
notable wintering site for these cranes, (a) Assam
attracting around 20,000 birds annually. (b) Arunachal Pradesh
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (c) Tamil Nadu
(a) 1 only (d) Kerala
(b) 2 only

Answer Key:
1. (c) 2. (d) 3. (c) 4. (c) 5. (a)



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