PART-A
Question 1
To achieve the desired goal of Sustainable Development, societies have to make certain transitions which are very much essential. Justify the statement in about 250 words.
Answer:
Sustainable development is a holistic approach that balances economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, ensuring that current needs are met without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their own needs. Realizing the objectives of sustainable development necessitates essential transitions in several domains. First, societies must shift from traditional, linear economic models (“take-make-dispose”) to circular models that encourage the reduction, reuse, and recycling of resources, minimizing waste and environmental impact. Second, transitions in energy systems are crucial, moving away from fossil fuels toward renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric to reduce carbon footprints and ensure energy security. Third, sustainable agriculture practices such as organic farming and biodiversity conservation preserve ecosystems and food security. Social equity, including universal access to education, resources, and opportunities, plays a pivotal role in sustainable development. Lastly, responsible consumption and waste reduction are required at both individual and institutional levels. These interconnected transitions collectively contribute to balanced development, resource conservation, reduction of pollution, and equitable growth. Without them, sustainable development cannot be achieved, thereby jeopardizing environmental integrity and socioeconomic progress for future generations.
Question 2
Differentiate between the following terms by giving suitable examples in about 125 words:
a) Primary and secondary succession
b) Direct and indirect use value of biodiversity
Answer:
a) Primary and Secondary Succession
Primary succession occurs in environments that lack soil and life, such as new land formed by volcanic eruptions or glacial retreats. Pioneer species like lichens and algae colonize these areas, gradually building up organic matter and soil, allowing other species to establish. This process is slow due to the absence of initial resources. In contrast, secondary succession happens in areas where a pre-existing ecosystem has been disturbed by events like fire, flood, or human activities, but soil and some organisms still remain. Here, grasses and herbaceous plants recolonize quickly due to the presence of residual soil and nutrients. For example, primary succession may occur on cooled lava, while secondary succession happens in a forest regenerating after a fire.
b) Direct and Indirect Use Value of Biodiversity
Direct use values refer to resources directly extracted from nature, such as food, timber, medicines, and fiber. For instance, fruits, wood for construction, and medicinal plants are consumed and utilized by humans. Indirect use values are ecosystem services that maintain environmental stability but are not consumed directly. Examples include pollination, water purification, climate regulation, and soil fertility. Bees pollinate crops, forests regulate climate and absorb carbon dioxide, and wetlands purify water. These services support and sustain life, underpinning human well-being and economic stability.
Question 3
Answer the following questions in about 150 words each.
a) What is biodiversity hotspot? Why is India considered as a mega biodiversity hotspot?
b) Describe the life forms of aquatic ecosystem found in different zones with suitable examples and diagrams.
c) Differentiate between the surface and ground water. Describe the factors responsible for degradation of water.
d) Write a short note on carbon cycle with the help of a diagram.
a) What is biodiversity hotspot? Why is India considered as a mega biodiversity hotspot?
A biodiversity hotspot is a region with an exceptional concentration of endemic species, meaning species unique to that area, but facing significant threats from habitat loss and human activities. The importance of biodiversity hotspots lies in their crucial role in conserving global biodiversity despite occupying relatively small areas. India is recognized as a mega biodiversity hotspot due to its high levels of species richness and endemism. The country’s diverse geographic and climatic zones, ranging from the Himalayas to the Western Ghats, Indo-Burma, and Sundaland, have fostered the evolution of unique flora and fauna. India hosts nearly 91,000 animal species and 45,500 plant species, including many endemics. However, rapid urbanization, deforestation, and climate change pose serious threats, making conservation efforts critically important.
b) Describe the life forms of aquatic ecosystem found in different zones with suitable examples and diagrams.
Aquatic ecosystems are structurally divided into zones defined by depth and light penetration, each supporting distinct life forms. In freshwater bodies, the littoral zone is the shallow area near the shore, rich in rooted aquatic plants (such as water lilies) and animals like frogs, turtles, and fish. The limnetic zone is the open water area with ample sunlight, dominated by phytoplankton, zooplankton, and small fish. The profundal zone is deeper, where sunlight doesn’t reach, populated by decomposers, bacteria, deep-water fish, and bottom-dwelling organisms. The benthic zone refers to the bottom substrate, supporting worms, mollusks, and decomposers. Similar zones exist in marine ecosystems, with the photic zone enabling photosynthesis and hosting plankton, corals, and fish, while deeper, darker regions (aphotic zone) support specialized organisms. Diagrams of these zones depict the vertical and horizontal distribution of life.
c) Differentiate between the surface and ground water. Describe the factors responsible for degradation of water.
Surface water refers to water found on the earth’s surface in rivers, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. It is directly exposed and easily accessible for human use but is highly susceptible to pollution from runoff, sewage, and industrial discharge. Groundwater, in contrast, resides beneath the earth’s surface in aquifers and can be accessed through wells and boreholes; it is generally cleaner due to natural filtration but vulnerable to contamination from deep infiltration of pollutants.
Factors responsible for degradation of water include industrial waste discharged into water bodies, agricultural runoff containing fertilizers and pesticides, domestic sewage, over-extraction of groundwater, deforestation, urbanization, and climate change. These factors lead to chemical contamination, eutrophication, decreased water quality, and threaten both aquatic ecosystems and human health.
d) Write a short note on carbon cycle with the help of a diagram.
The carbon cycle is the complex biogeochemical process through which carbon moves among earth’s atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere. It begins with plants absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2CO2) during photosynthesis, converting it into organic matter. Animals consume these plants, and through respiration, CO2CO2 is returned to the atmosphere. After death, decomposition releases carbon back into the soil and air. Combustion of fossil fuels also releases stored carbon as CO2CO2, contributing to global warming. Oceans play a major role by absorbing and releasing carbon. The carbon cycle ensures the maintenance of life, climate regulation, and soil fertility. Diagrams typically show arrows representing these fluxes between reservoirs, including atmosphere, plants, animals, soil, and oceans.
Question 4
How does Forest Right Act, 2006 help tribal and forest dwellers in India? Explain with suitable examples in about 200 words.
Answer:
The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, legally recognizes and secures the rights of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers over forest lands and resources they have historically depended upon. It corrects historical injustices by granting these communities ownership and occupancy rights for habitation and self-cultivation. The Act empowers tribal and forest dwellers by enabling them to participate in sustainable forest management and conservation practices, thus fostering biodiversity protection alongside livelihood security. For example, under FRA, these communities can harvest minor forest produce like honey, medicinal plants, and bamboo, which supports economic empowerment. The Act also permits the Gram Sabha (village council) to approve the diversion of forest land for essential public utilities such as schools and water tanks, improving access to basic amenities. Thus, FRA enhances forest dwellers’ socio-economic development while conserving forests, protecting indigenous culture, and preventing displacement.
Question 5
Critically evaluate the status of non-conventional energy resources in India. Elucidate your answer with suitable examples in about 200 words.
Answer:
India has made significant advancements in non-conventional energy resources, which are vital for sustainable development and energy security. These renewable sources include solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and ocean energies. Solar energy stands out with ambitious government targets like the 100 GW capacity goal, supported by vast solar potential and international alliances. Wind energy is prominent in states such as Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, with growing infrastructure and policy support. Biomass energy, derived from agricultural waste, supports cooking and power generation, providing rural energy access. While hydropower remains important, emphasis on small hydropower projects aims to lessen environmental impacts. Despite progress, challenges such as high initial costs, technology adoption barriers, and environmental concerns persist, which India continues to address through policy incentives, research, and public awareness. The transition towards these resources reduces reliance on fossil fuels, decreases greenhouse gas emissions, and aligns with India’s climate commitments, positioning the country as a growing leader in renewable energy.
Question 6
Explain the following terms in about 60 words each:
a) Ecofeminism
Answer:
Ecofeminism links ecology and feminism, emphasizing the interconnected oppression of women and nature by patriarchal systems. It advocates for environmental justice alongside gender equality, highlighting that exploitation of the environment and women are intertwined issues. Originating in the 1970s, ecofeminism promotes a worldview valuing nature, holistic connections, and equality to address both social and ecological problems.
b) Geographical and Social Inequity
Answer:
Geographical inequity refers to the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities based on location, such as disparities in healthcare or infrastructure. Social inequity involves unfair treatment and discrimination based on social factors like race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Both create systemic disadvantages and marginalize communities, hindering access to essential services and development.
c) Ozone Layer Depletion
Answer:
Ozone layer depletion is the thinning of the ozone layer in the stratosphere caused mainly by human-made chemicals like CFCs. The ozone layer protects life by absorbing harmful UV radiation. Its depletion results in increased UV radiation reaching Earth, causing health issues like skin cancer, cataracts, immune suppression, and damaging ecosystems.
d) Acid Rain
Answer:
Acid rain forms when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with water vapor in the atmosphere, producing acidic precipitation. It harms plants, aquatic life, and soil by leaching nutrients, damages buildings and monuments through corrosion, and poses health risks. Industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust are key contributors to acid rain.
Question 7
Answer the following (approx. 150 words each):
a) Explain any four impacts of improper waste disposal with suitable examples.
Answer:
Improper waste disposal causes land, water, and air pollution, threatening human health and ecosystems. Land pollution results from waste dumping, contaminating soil and harming plants and animals. Water bodies get polluted from waste runoff, affecting aquatic life and making water unsafe. Air pollution arises when waste decomposes anaerobically, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Improper disposal can spread diseases by providing breeding grounds for vectors like mosquitoes. For example, open dumping of plastic and hazardous waste near water sources causes waterborne diseases and depletes biodiversity.
b) How does landfilling act as an important method of waste disposal? Explain.
Answer:
Landfilling is a controlled method of waste disposal where waste is buried in designated areas, preventing littering and environmental contamination. It helps manage large volumes of solid waste hygienically and economically. Modern landfills capture methane gas produced from decomposing waste, which can be used for energy, reducing fossil fuel dependence. Landfills also reduce transportation emissions by localizing waste management. However, they require proper monitoring to prevent groundwater contamination and odor issues, making it an important but regulated waste management tool.
c) Describe the role of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) as an institution for monitoring pollution levels.
Answer:
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is the apex national body in India responsible for monitoring and controlling air, water, and noise pollution. It establishes environmental standards, conducts research, and enforces pollution control laws. The CPCB inspects industries, gathers pollution data, and publishes reports to inform policy. It also advises state pollution control boards, develops pollution prevention strategies, and promotes environmental awareness, playing a crucial role in safeguarding environmental quality across India[web:some].
d) How do collective actions help in addressing environmental issues and concerns? Explain.
Answer:
Collective actions involve community participation, governmental policies, NGOs, and international cooperation to address environmental problems. They amplify impact through shared resources, knowledge, and coordinated efforts. For example, community cleanups, policy advocacy, and global agreements on climate change illustrate collective responses to environmental challenges. Such cooperation leads to sustainable resource use, pollution control, and conservation, fostering environmental stewardship and resilience against global threats[web:some].
Question 8
Habitat destruction is recognized as the most significant threat to global biodiversity. Elucidate the statement with respect to the present-day context in about 200 words.
Answer:
Habitat destruction, driven by deforestation, urbanization, agriculture expansion, and infrastructure development, leads to the loss and fragmentation of ecosystems critical for species survival. It is the foremost cause of biodiversity decline globally, as it destroys or alters natural habitats, forcing species to migrate, adapt, or face extinction. In the present context, activities such as illegal logging, mining, and land conversion intensify habitat loss, threatening endangered species and disrupting ecological processes. Fragmented habitats reduce genetic diversity and resilience to climate change, affecting ecosystem services vital for humans. For example, tropical rainforests like the Amazon and Western Ghats are hotspots experiencing rapid deforestation, imperiling unique flora and fauna. Habitat destruction also accelerates invasive species spread, further endangering native species. Protecting habitats through conservation, sustainable land use, and restoration is imperative to halt biodiversity loss and maintain ecological balance[web:some][web:some].
Question 9
Polluted water is a threat to our health and survival of life forms. Explain it with respect to different agents of water pollutants in about 200 words.
Answer:
Water pollution introduces harmful substances like chemicals, pathogens, and plastics into water bodies, jeopardizing human health and biodiversity. Major pollutants include industrial effluents containing heavy metals, agricultural runoff rich in pesticides and fertilizers causing eutrophication, untreated sewage carrying pathogens, and plastics harming aquatic organisms. Contaminated water causes diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and hepatitis in humans, impacting millions worldwide. It also disrupts aquatic ecosystems by reducing oxygen levels, killing fish and other organisms. For example, excessive nutrients from fertilizers cause algal blooms, depleting oxygen and creating dead zones. Heavy metals bioaccumulate, posing risks through the food chain. Polluted water compromises drinking supplies and food security, necessitating strict regulation and treatment to ensure safe water for health and ecosystem sustainability[web:some][web:some].
Question 10
The ratio of those killed to those affected by natural disasters depends on the type of calamity, degree of preparedness, and density of population. Justify the statement with suitable arguments and examples in about 250 words.
Answer:
The fatality and impact ratio in natural disasters varies significantly with disaster type, preparedness, and population density. Earthquakes in densely populated, poorly prepared regions cause high deaths, while equivalent quakes in prepared, sparsely populated areas result in fewer fatalities. Preparedness includes early warning systems, infrastructure resilience, and emergency response plans that reduce casualties and damage. For instance, the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami caused massive destruction but comparatively fewer deaths due to advanced warning and stringent building codes. Contrastingly, the 2010 Haiti earthquake caused enormous deaths due to poor infrastructure and preparedness. Disaster type also matters; rapid, unpredictable events like flash floods or tornadoes often kill more people than slow-moving hazards like droughts. High population density increases exposure and vulnerability, while planning and education mitigate risks. Thus, effective disaster management, infrastructure, and community awareness save lives, showing the critical interplay of these factors in disaster outcomes.
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