Environment and Disaster Management RC

Vocab

Agroecology
- Afforestation and Eco-development
- Benefit sharing obligations
- Biological Magnification
- Coral reef: algae - zooxanthellae, Builders - Polyps
  - Schedule 1 of Wildlife protection act
- Carbon Sinks
- Carbon sequestration
  - Carbon capture and storage
- Compliance obligations
- Carbon Trading -
  - Carbon emission trading, marketplace to allow other companies to emit certain amount of CO2.
- Desertification
- Decomposition
- Eutrophication - reduce dissolved oxygen(DO)
- Ecological niche
- Environmental footprint
- Energy Flow
- 5F’s - food, fodder, fuel, fiber and fertilizers
- Fly Ash - combustion of solid material
  - Silicon dioxide - SiO2, Calcium oxide
  - Can be used by replacing cement
- Green economy
- Nutrient Cycle
- NDC - nationally Determined contributions
- Process upgradation
- Pollution abatement
- Pollinators and their role in plants fertilization
- Integrated pest management (IPM)
- Rejuvenation
- Risk assessment
- Sand acts as an aquifer, natural carpet on bottom of the river.
- Speedier appraisal process
- Sand Dredging
- Transmission of diseases
- Man animal conflict
- Family forestry
- Eco-development
- Opportunity cost of negative environmental impacts are high
- Ecological civilization
- Evil Quartet for biodiversity loss - HOLI
  - Habitat loss and fragmentation
  - over exploitation
  - Co-extinction (लापता)
  - Invasive species invasion

Environment

Introductions

According to Climate Action Tracker, India is the only G20 country with “2°C compatible” targets.
UNEP’s Emission Gap Report 2022 highlighted that without substantial mitigation measures, global temperature can rise by 2.8 degree by the end of century.
According to Living planet report, 2022 by WWF -
- More then 85% of wetlands have been lost
- 32% of the world’s forest area has been destroyed
- 50% of the coral reef systems have been destroyed
- 60% of the decline across vertebrate species

Conclusion

Article 48A - The State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wild life of the country
Article 51A of the constitution requires all citizens to protect and improve the natural environment and to have compassion for living creatures.
“Prakruti Rakshati Rakshita” (Nature protects if protected) requires substantive and sustainable action.

Data

Tropics is 1/4 of the area and home to 3/4 of the humans
India has 2.4% land Area, 7% recorded species, 18% humans
200% increase in number of wetland sites
Only country among top 5 emitters with 2 degrees compatible targets
Last 9 years solar power was increased by 25 times

Examples

Chipko movement - Uttarakhand
Appiko movement - Karnataka
Save soil movement - Sadguru
Narmada Bachao Aandolan
Recent Examples of Climate disaster
- Floods in AP and Gujarat
- Flash flooding in Delhi, Mumbai
- California wildfires
- Heatwave in summer
- Worst Draught in Somalia
- Bomb cyclone in US

Policy contradictions and environmental impact

Economic Growth vs. Environmental Protection
Agricultural Expansion vs. Forest Conservation
Agricultural Policies vs. Water Conservation
- Example: Government subsidies on rice and sugarcane
Industrial Development vs. Air/Water Quality:
- Expansion of industries in Delhi NCR
- Untreated effluents discharged from industries in Ganga
Mining Activities vs. Forest Conservation
- Buxwaha diamond mining issue
- Illegal mining and construction in Aravalli Hills
Urbanization vs. Wetland Protection
- Rapid urban development encroaching on wetlands
Energy Production vs. Wildlife Protection:
- Example: Wind farms in Rajasthan threatening Great Indian Bustard
Transport Infrastructure vs. Habitat Protection
- Example: Highway construction leads to habitat loss and fragmentation
Tourism Development vs. Ecosystem Preservation:
- Example: Unregulated tourism results into pollution and lopsided development
Fisheries Policy vs. Marine Conservation
- Example: Overfishing in the Gulf of Mannar

Measures to address

Integrated Policy Framework
- Implementing Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs)
Promoting Sustainable Practices
Adopting Green Technologies
Stakeholder Engagement

Conservation

Biodiversity

Importance of Biodiversity
- Ecosystem Services
- Bio Resources of Economic Importance
- Social Benefits etc.
Biodiversity hotspot
- High Species Diversity
- Endemism
- Threatened Ecosystems
- Small Area, Large Impact
- Unique Flora and Fauna
- Conservation Priority
Reasons for Loss of Biodiversity - natural | anthropogenic
- Natural
  - Floods, earthquakes, wildfires, tsunami, etc.
- Loss of habitat
  - 30% forest lost (Living Planet Report)
- Pollution
- Overexploitation
- Coextinction
- Invasion by alien species
  - E.g. Prosphis Juliflora
- Toxicity
- Rapid Urbanization in mountains
- Extension of Agriculture
- Fragmentation

Mangrove conservation

Mangroves are a type of coastal vegetation specifically adapted to survive in saline and waterlogged environments. They play a vital role in maintaining coastal ecosystems.
Benefits
- Maintaining coastal biodiversity
- Providing ecosystem services
- Coastal protection from erosion and storm damage
- Mitigating the impacts of climate change
- Water filtration
- Fisheries
- Livelihoods
- Tourism
Government Initiative
- MISHTI
- PM PRANAM

Wetland conservation

Wetlands are land areas that are partially or fully inundated with water for all the year or varying periods of time during the year.
Wetlands include marshes, swamps, bogs, and similar areas.
‘wise use’ is defined as the maintenance of their ecological character of area while using for economic purpose, within the context of sustainable development
Objectives
- Conservation of wetlands
- Wise use
- Community involvement in wetland management
- Financial assistance
Key Elements of the ‘Wise Use’ Concept
- Balancing Use and Conservation
- Holistic Management : considering entire ecosystem including water, soil, plants and animals
- Participatory Management involving local communities
- restore degraded wetlands
Amrit Dharohar Scheme
National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP)

Water conservation

Namami Gange and National mission for clean Ganga
- Recognized by the United Nations (UN) in Top 10 World Restoration Flagships programmes.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan
- Water conservation campaign
  - Features
    - Targeted Campaign for 256 water-stressed districts
    - Water Conservation and Rainwater Harvesting

rooftop rainwater harvesting, check dams, farm ponds, and recharge wells

E.g. catch the rain campaign

E.g. Amrit Sarovar’s

Watershed Development

Afforestation, contour trenching, and contour bunding

Revival of Traditional Water Bodies - desilting, repairing, and restoring - Efficient Irrigation Practices: - drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation - Community Participation and Awareness

Jan Andolan (People’s Movement)

E.g. कृषि विज्ञान केंद्र मेला

E.g. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

Integrated Water Management through convergence of schemes like MGNREGA, PMKSY and Atal Bhujal Yojna - Multi-Stakeholder Engagement including CSO, NGO, private sector and local communities - Regular Monitoring and impact assessment of interventions

Way Forward

Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (DRI)
Not exceeding the carrying capacity of Ecosystem
Ecotourism
Institutional structures at local level
Promotion of local - artifacts, communities, natural produce etc.

Expected questions

Biodiversity (Detailed)

Consequences of spreading of ‘Dead Zones’ on marine ecosystem

Loss of biodiversity due to suffocation
Disruption of food webs
- Death of planktons affects all trophic levels
Decline in fisheries leading to economic loss
Reduced tourism and recreational potential
Health risks due to harmful algal blooms
Altered nutrient cycles
Increased greenhouse gas emission
Measures
- Preventing nutrient runoff from agriculture and industries
- Wastewater treatment
- In-situ cleaning and addition of fresh water

Biological Diversity Act, 2002

Conservation of Biological Diversity : by management through BMCs
Sustainable Use of Biological Resources
Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS)
Protection of Traditional Knowledge
Recognition of Biodiversity Heritage Sites
Support for Research

Mangroves

Causes of Mangrove Depletion
- Human Activities:
  - Coastal infrastructure development like housing, industries, and aquaculture farms encroaching on mangroves
  - Large scale aquaculture farms particularly shrimp farming
  - Overexploitation : timber, fuelwood, medicinal plants
  - Unsustainable Fishing Practices e.g. bottom trawling
  - Unsustainable Tourism
  - Pollution : Industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage discharge.
  - Sedimentation
- Natural Factors:
  - Sea Level Rise : Inundate mangroves leading to habitat loss
  - increased frequency of cyclones and storms due to climate change
Importance of Mangroves
- Ecological
  - Coastal Protection : natural barrier against storms
  - Filtration and Water Purification : trapping sediments and pollutants from runoff
  - Biodiversity hotspot : rich variety of plant and animal life.

The Sundarbans mangrove

Nutrient Cycling : - Carbon sequestration

Up to four times more carbon than terrestrial forest

- - - Economic - Livelihoods : providing resources such as timber, honey, and medicinal plants. - Fisheries Support : vital breeding and nursery grounds for a variety of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans
      - Cultural and Recreational Value: e.g. birdwatching and ecotourism

Carrying capacity

Carrying capacity means maximum number of individuals or population size of a species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading the ecosystem
It depends on availability of resources such as food, water, habitat and other resources
Exceeding carrying capacity can lead to resource depletion, pollution, and ecosystem collapse.
Determinants of Carrying Capacity
- Resource Availability: Includes food, water, shelter, and space.
- Environmental Conditions: Climate, weather patterns, and natural events.
- Interactions Among Species: Predation, competition, and symbiotic relationships.
- Human Impact: Pollution, land use changes, and resource extraction.
Importance of Understanding Carrying Capacity in Sustainable Development
- Resource Management : ensuring sustainable extraction and use of natural resources
- Population Control : preventing overpopulation-related issues.
- Environmental Impact Assessment : evaluating the potential impact of development projects
- Land Use Planning : carrying capacity help in optimizing land use in agriculture, forestry
- Disaster Preparedness : identifying vulnerable populations and develop DM strategies

Pollution and degradation

Pollution is defined as introduction of harmful substances into the environment in excessive amount making it less fit for life.
Air Pollution - It is contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent.

Food waste

1.05 billion tonnes food wasted about 19% of available food
- Contribute to 8-10% global GHG emission
India - 78.2 million tonnes food wasted every year

Causes/Sources of Pollution & Degradation

Air pollution

According to the IQAir World Air Quality Report, 39 out of the 50 most polluted cities in the world are located in India.
Two types
- Outdoor
- Indoor

Global Air Quality Guidelines(AQG) - World Health organization

Focus on 6 pollutants - SO2, NO2, O3, CO, PM
Revised thresholds setting individual limits for each pollutants
Sectoral policies - Industry, Energy, Transport, Urban Planning, Waste

Indian’s National Clean Air Program

Key features
- Target oriented : aims to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 20-30% over five years.
- City-specific Action Plans - 102 Non-attainment cities not meeting NAAQS
- Source-specific Interventions - industries, vehicles, biomass burning, and dust
- Technology Adoption - electric vehicles, renewable energy source, emission control
  - Installation of flue-gas desulfurization (FGD) units in thermal power plants
- Inter-Agency Coordination : central and state governments, local authorities, and civil society.
- Strengthening Monitoring and Compliance (MC)
  - Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS)
  - SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research) network for real time data
- Capacity Building and Awareness

Photochemical smog

Photochemical smog is a type of air pollution formed in urban areas when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compound(VOC) react with sunlight forming ground level ozone (O₃)
Causes
- Stubble burning, vehicular pollution, industrial pollution, construction activities, garbage dumps.
Impact
- Reduced visibility, ground level ozone, respiratory problems, environment, economical
Mitigation
- Catalytic converters, renewable energy, LPG, CNG rather then petrol, public transportation, renewable energy, urban planning
Gothenburg Protocol, 1999
- Aims to abate acidification, eutrophication and ground level ozone
- Objectives
  - Control and reduce - SO2, NOX, NH3, VOC, PM
IPCC 6th Assessment Report

Causes

Anthropogenic
- Power Generation
- Industrial activities : Fly ash
  - Lead, PM 2.5, PM 10, CO, CO2 suspended particulate matter
- Agricultural - Traditional Fuel - firewood, cow dung etc.
- Transport - Nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.
  - Use catalytic converter filters, lead free petrol, ammonia
  - Over 3.38 million private cars in Delhi
- Construction and demolitions activities

Environment and Disaster Management

Natural sources
- Volcanos, Forest Fires
- Climatic conditions - Temperature inversion, low wind speed, high humidity can trap pollutants near surface

Impact

Health Effects : - Respiratory (asthma), cardiovascular, nervous and circulatory system disease.
- Life expectancy in india has reduced by 2.6 years due to air pollution - WHO study
- Air pollution has caused 8.1 million deaths [State of Global Air Report, 2024]
Economic loss
- Reduced productivity, damage to property, healthcare costs
- Air pollution costs 1.4% of GDP of India- ICMR
Environmental Impact:
- Damage crops and forests
- Contribute to the acidification of lakes and rivers.
Climate Change : Greenhouse Gas Effect & Global Warming

Government initiatives

National Clean Air Program (NCAP)
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
Bharat Stage VI Emission Norms
National Solar Mission
Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act
National Ambient Air Quality Standards - NAAQS

Measures

Transition to cleaner technology in transportation, industries and energy generation
Improved Industrial Practices
- Carbon sequestration
- Bio decomposers
- Burning in boilers, thermal power plant
- Pyrolysis
Sustainable Transportation
- Catalytic convertors
Strict Emission Standards
Waste Management
Individual actions : public transportation, lifestyle for environment
“Breathe India” Initiative suggested by NITI Aayog needs to be implemented for sustainable solution

Water Pollution

Causes
- Natural - erosion, landslides, decay and decomposition of plants and animals, etc.
- Anthropogenic
  - Point source pollution

Agriculture Runoff - Fertilizers and pesticides

Industrial Discharge - Concentrations of heavy/toxic metals

E.g. fluoride and nitrates

Domestic Sewage - without proper treatment

63% of sewage flowing into rivers is untreated - CPCB

Oil Spills - Nord stream

Thermal pollution from nuclear power plant

Non-point source pollution : diffused sources - Improper Waste Disposal - Eutrophication - Biodegradable material - bacteria, algae blooms consumes a lot of oxygen - Plastic pollution
Impact
- Ecological
  - Reduce dissolved oxygen(DO) - threatens aquatic ecosystem
  - disruption of food chains.
  - Biological magnification
  - Desertification
- Human Health -
  - water-borne diseases - cholera, diarrhoea, typhoid, hepatitis, etc.
- Economic impact
  - fishing, agriculture, and recreation
- Global warming and climate change
Measures
- Sustainable Agricultural Practices:
  - E.g. organic and natural farming, crop rotation
  - E.g. use of nano urea
  - E.g. Developing water saving technologies like micro irrigation etc.
- Industrial Best Practices
  - Wastewater Treatment :- sedimentation, filtration, biological treatment, and chlorine treatment.
  - Reusing and recycling
- Public Awareness and Education
  - foster a culture of environmental stewardship.
- Regulation and Enforcement -
- International Cooperation
  - Sharing best practices, knowledge, and technologies
- Watershed development - prevention of runoff and storage and recharge
  - E.g. Haryali Project, Neeru-Meeru Programme
  - REWARD Scheme of Karnataka got recognized by world bank
- Rainwater harvesting
  - Lakes, Kund or Tanka
  - Ralegan Siddhi
Government initiatives
- Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974
- National Water Policy
- National Mission for Clean Ganga (Namami Gange)
- Jal Kranti Abhiyan
- Water Quality Monitoring
  - Pollution Control Boards - Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan
- Jal Jeewan Mission
- PM PRANAM
Way forward
- Mihir Shah Committee recommendations for prevention of ground water
- Sponge Cities
- LIFE Campaign

Solid waste pollution

Solid waste pollution refers to the contamination of the environment with unwanted or discarded solid materials.
1.5 lac tonnes of municipal solid waste generated every day, only 83% collected and 30% treated -CPCB
By 2050 there will be more plastic than fishes in ocean -UNEP
Solid waste
- household garbage, pieces of metals, broken glassware, PET , polythene bags, ash, etc.
Type of solid waste
- Biodegradable
- Non-biodegradable
  - Global Plastics Treaty

Plastics are solid material which can undergo permanent deformation in response to applied stress.

- - - Recyclable
  - E-Waste
Impact
- Environmental
  - Degradation of Soil Quality : nutrient content, and fertility
  - Water Contamination:
  - Biodiversity Loss:
  - Air pollution
- Human health risks :
  - Respiratory illness, typhoid, malaria and cholera, etc.
  - Food Safety Concerns: : enter the food chains
- Economic costs : dealing with pollution and health impacts
Measures
- Segregation of waste
- Circular economy
- Common hazardous treatment, storage and disposal facilitates
- Polyblending
- Incineration plants
- Scientific disposal of hazardous waste
- Sanitary landfills rather then open dumping
  - For filling bio-degradable wastes
- Using Bioremediation Techniques
  - Bioventing
  - Biosparging
  - Bioargumentation
  - Phytoremediation
- Public awareness and education
Government initiatives
- Solid waste management rules, 2016
- Waste minimization circles
Examples
- Daurala near Meerut UP

Sand Mining

How it is threat to environment
Impact on Indian coast
Issue
- Deplete groundwater tables
Measures
- Manufactured sand
- Fly ash
- Prudence and tight monitoring
- Periodic assessment
- Sustainable mining

Land degradation

As per global land outlook report, about 28% of India’s land is degraded or facing a desertification. Impacted 2.5% GDP.
- 25% of global land under threat.
India to restore 26 million hectares land by 2030 as a signatory to UNCCD
Land degradation is generally understood either as a temporary or a permanent decline in productive capacity of the land.
National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) - classify wasteland by remote sensing
Causes
- Natural (WEMDT)
  - gullied /ravinous land, desertic or coastal sands, barren rocky areas, steep sloping land, and glacial areas due to weathering
- Anthropogenic
  - shifting cultivation area, degraded land under plantation crops, degraded forests, degraded pastures, and mining and industrial wastelands.
  - Soil erosion, waterlogging, salinisation and alkalisation of land lead to land degradation.
Examples
- Partnering with NGO’s
  - Jhabua, MP - reclamation of land
- Community involvement
  - Alwar role model
Land Resource Inventory portal of Karnataka

E-waste

E-waste is discarded and end-of-life electronic products ranging from mobiles, laptops, home appliances, peripheral devices, etc.
Issues
- Global e-waste monitor report - e-waste growing in india at 30% per annum.
- Short lifespans
- Disposal in landfills
- Only 22% of India’s e-waste is collected
- Only 1.5% of e-waste gets recycled.
- Dominance of the Informal Sector - resort to unsafe practices - releasing toxic like lead, mercury, and cadmium into the environment.
Measures
- E-waste management rule 2022
- R2 Code (Responsible recycling for e-waste)
- Designing durable and easily repairable devices
- e-waste collection and recycling program
- Public awareness about responsible disposal
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

Oil pollution

contamination of the environment, particularly water bodies, with petroleum or its by-products.
Impacts on marine ecosystem
- Suffocation of fishes due to oil coat on their bodies
- long-term health issue because of toxic compounds
- Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification
- Oxygen Depletion
- Food chain disruption
- Habitats destruction - corals, mangroves, sea grasses
- Economic Impacts on Fisheries and Tourism
Impact on India
- High Vulnerability : 7500 km coastline
- Livelihood dependency on fisheries and tourism
- Rich biodiversity
- Limited infrastructure for effective oil spill response and clean-up
- Health issues due to exposure to contaminated seafood

Impact of Pollution & Degradation

Human Health risks
- Impairs vision, judgement and reflexes
- Respiratory disease
- Carcinogenic effect
- Hypertension
- Nervous disorders
- Destroy cell tissue, leukemia
Effect on environment
- Soil Quality Degradation
- Water Contamination
- Reduced Agricultural Productivity
- Hazardous Waste, etc.
- Extreme events
- Acid Rain
- Retards photosynthesis
- Biodiversity loss
Food Safety Concerns:
Cultural and Aesthetic loss
Economic Impact:
- increase healthcare cost
- financial burden of cleaning up
Climate Change : exacerbating global warming

Prevention & Control of Pollution & Degradation

Sustainable Agricultural Practices:
Soil Conservation Techniques:
Waste Management and Recycling:
Implementation of Pollution Control Regulations:
Phytoremediation and Bioremediation:
Promoting Afforestation and Reforestation:
Integrated Water Management:
Awareness and Education:

Government initiatives

National ambient air quality standards
National clean air program
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Campaign):
National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture
Forestry and Afforestation Initiatives
- Green India Mission and the National Afforestation Program
Waste Management Rules:

National Environment Agencies, Legislations and Policies

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
Environment Protection Act 1986
International Environment Agencies & Agreements

Climate Change and global warming

Introduction

According to United Nations, Climate change refers to long term shift in temperature and weather patterns.

Data

World Bank, Climate Change could cost 2-8% GDP of India
India’s per capita emission - 1.5 metric tonnes, Worlds - 4.2 metric tonnes
High vulnerability - India’s fifth rank in global climate risk index 2022
85% land mass vulnerable to CC
Climate change performance index - 8/59

Global warming

long-term increase in Earth’s average temperature due to build-up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Climate change

encompasses a broader range of changes in Earth’s climate system.
Rising temperatures (global warming)
Alterations in precipitation patterns, wind patterns, sea levels, ocean circulations
Extreme weather events like cyclones, droughts, and heatwaves, wildfires.

Causes

Anthropogenic causes

Greenhouse gas emission - CO2, CH4, N2O
Deforestation
Industrialization and Urbanization
Agricultural Practices - livestock farming, rice cultivation - produce CH4
Waste management

Natural causes

Volcanism
Sunspots
Milankovitch oscillations (Axial tilt, eccentricity, obliquity)

Impacts

Global warming
Melting of polar ice and glaciers - permafrost thaw, polar ice sheet collapse
Ocean acidification - calcification - Coral bleaching , shellfish, planktons loss.
Rising sea levels
Changing global ocean currents and climates
- E.g. weakening of AMOC
Extreme weather events - flooding, draughts, cyclones and heat waves, wildfires, extreme dipole events
Biodiversity loss - Extinction and co-extinction of species due to habitat loss
Soil degradation, erosion and leaching
Health risks - Spread of disease, heat-related illness, food and water insecurity, zombie virus
Changing migration patterns
Changing precipitation patterns

Climate change impacts on food security

Desertification and land degradation - decline in crop yields
Extreme weather events - crop failures
Decline in nutritional profile of crops
Pest and disease vulnerability
Reduce water availability
Ocean warming and acidification reduce fish availability
Adaptation
- Climate resilient crops
- Crop diversification
- Precision agriculture
- Extension of irrigation infrastructure
- Sustainable farming practices

Sea level rise - impacts

Ecological
- Coastal erosion and shoreline retreat
- Increased flooding
- Saltwater Intrusion into freshwater aquifers
- Destruction of coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, coral reefs, and wetlands.
  - Sundarbans, A&N, Chilika Lake
Economic
- Damage to coastal infrastructure like ports, roads, buildings
- Increased pressure on coastal megacities like Jakarta, Dhaka, and Colombo
- Displacement of coastal communities
Existential threat for small island nations

Kyoto protocol

Binding emission reduction targets for industrialized countries
Carbon Trading Mechanisms through carbon credits market
Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)
Joint Implementation (JI)
Focus on technological innovation : such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and renewable energy
Focus on afforestation and reforestation

Measures

Comprehensive national plan

NAPCC with 8 sub missions

Mitigation

Transition to renewable energy : solar, wind, and hydropower
Energy Efficiency
Carbon Capture and Storage
Afforestation and reforestation : natural carbon sink
- Carbon sequestration - Ocean, geological, terrestrial
- MISHTI Scheme
Adapting electric vehicles
Restoration of wetlands
- E.g. Amrit Dharohar Scheme
Geo engineering
Sustainable Land Use and Climate smart agriculture
- adoption of millets

Adaption

Sustainable urban planning
- Urban lakes - City of Lakes’ project of Delhi
- Urban forests (Miyawaki model); public transport; urban waste
Sustainable lifestyle - LiFE
Infrastructure resilience, enhancing disaster preparedness, and implementing early warning systems.
- E.g. GRIHA Scheme
- E.g. CRDI
Managed retreat
- For climate related migration

International cooperation

common but differentiated responsibility
Green Grids Initiative
Technology cooperation
Emission trading
Joint implementation of projects
Market mechanism
Financial and Technological support
- Green climate fund
- Adaptation fund
- Clean technology fund

Empower local communities

E.g. Maiti Andolan in Chamoli Uttarakhand
E.g. Odanthurai TN

Scientific Research and Monitoring

NISAR Mission

Government initiatives

National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): 8 Missions

National Solar Mission
National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency
National Mission on Sustainable Habitat
National Water Mission
National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system
National Mission for a Green India
National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture
National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change
Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric vehicles (FAME)
Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation (AMRUT) for Smart Cities.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
UJALA scheme
Sovereign green bonds
Green Credits Program
PM-PRANAM and GOBARdhan Scheme, MISHTI, Amrit Dharohar

India’s 5 point pledge or Panchamrit (Glasgow 2021):

Net-zero by 2070
To increase its non-fossil fuel energy capacity to 500 GW by 2030.
Increase the share of renewables in the energy mix to 50% by 2030.
Reduce the emissions intensity of its economy by 45%.
Reduce emissions by 1 billion tonnes of CO2.

Conclusion

To achieve the ancient ideals of “Prakruti Rakshati Rakshita” (Nature protects if protected) requires substantive and sustainable action.

Sustainable development

Environmental Impact Assessment

Introduction

EIA is a regulatory framework used to identify, predict, evaluate and mitigate the potential environmental impacts of development projects.

EIA Process - SSB-APM-Public-MPC

Screening
Scoping
Baseline Data Analysis
Impact prediction
Assessment of alternatives, delineation of mitigation measures
Public Hearing
Environmental Management Plan
Monitoring and Environmental Clearances(EC)

Significance

informed decision making
identifying mitigation measures (Delhi Metro project)
Compliance with environmental regulations (CRZ for projects in coastal areas)
Assessment of the social impact (Tehri dam )
public consultations allow local communities to voice their concerns (POSCO case)
inclusiveness in decision making - overall quality
protection of biodiversity (harmful impact of Gundia hydropower project on Western Ghats);

Shortcomings of EIA(notification), 2020

Exemptions - strategic projects, ‘economically sensitive areas’ beyond preview of EIA
Post-Facto Clearance : raises concerns about accountability
Public Consultation: Reduced to max 40 days and only 20 days
Expert Committees nominated by government : concern about independence and autonomy
Transparency and accountability concerns:
- instances of manipulating data, inadequate monitoring
Government Initiatives
- National Green tribunal
- PARIVESH - pro-active and responsive facilitation by interactive, virtuous and environmental single-window Hub

Measures | Way forward

Sectoral EIA is needed
Creating institutional capacity - clearance, monitoring and compliance
- Independent EIA Authority
Insurance and penal action
Risk financing, risk minimized technology
Creation of centralized baseline data bank
Environment supplement plan
Prevent
- Wetlands
- Estuaries
- Biospheres etc.
Centralized data bank

Conclusion

To achieve the ancient ideals of “Prakruti Rakshati Rakshita” (Nature protects if protected) requires substantive and sustainable action.

Disaster and DM

Introduction

Disaster is a catastrophe that result into substantial loss of life, property and environment which is beyond the coping capacity of the community.
A sudden disruption of the functioning of a community exceeding its ability to cope using its own resources.
According to Vulnerability Atlas of India, India has about two-third of its geographical area and equal proportion of its population, vulnerable to disasters.
NDMA - 48% of overall human life loss are due to climate related disasters
‘every 1 dollar invested in disaster preparedness saves 4 dollars’

Types of Disasters

Environment and Disaster Management

Notified Disasters under DM Act 2005

Cyclones, drought, earthquake, fire, flood, tsunami, hailstorm, landslide, avalanche, cloudburst, pest attack, frost and cold waves.

Coastal erosion | Cyclones

According to MoES out of 7500 km long coastline, 34% is under varying degree of erosion
Cyclone is a system of winds rotating inward to an area of low atmospheric pressure
8% of total land area is prone to cyclone
Causes
- Natural Factors:
  - Strong wave action and tidal currents
  - Cyclones, storm surges, and tsunami
  - Sea-level rise due to climate change
  - Heavy rainfall, floods
  - Coastal geomorphology (shape of the coastline)
- Human Factors
  - Coastal construction (sea walls, groynes)
  - Dredging and Sand mining
  - Deforestation of mangroves
  - Climate change induced alterations in ocean currents

Environment and Disaster Management

Effects
- Loss of fertile land
- Coastal infrastructure damage including roads, building and ports
- Ecological degradation - mangroves, corals
- Changes in landscape - loss of beaches
- Population vulnerability (40% ~ 100km)
- Threat to coastal tourism, fisheries, and other economic activities
Measures (preventive, remedial)
- Improving Early Warning Systems
- Hard Engineering:
  - Create protective infrastructure - Seawalls, revetments, levees
  - Artificial headway
- Soft Engineering:
  - Dune stabilization
  - Beach nourishment
  - Bio-shields - Corals, mangroves and littoral areas (MISHTI)
- Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM)
- Use indigenous knowledge
- Madhav Chitale committee for periodic dredging
- Community participation and capacity building
- 15th FC recommendation to develop norms for erosion mitigation measures
Status of preparedness in coastal areas
- IMD’s has deployed cyclone warning system
- Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC)
- NDMA, SDMA coordinate disaster management efforts
- Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Rules
- Training and capacity-building of local communities
- CDRi
- Mangrove Restoration - MISHTI

Coastal sand mining

Impact
- Environmental
  - Coastal Erosion
  - Loss of Biodiversity

Olive Ridley turtle nesting sites in Odisha disturbed

Saltwater Intrusion - Destruction of mangroves and sand dunes - Impact on Marine Ecosystems : benthic organism that live on low lying coastal areas are threatened
- Socio-economic
  - Livelihood disruption of fishing communities
  - Loss of Agricultural Land
  - Illegal sand mining leading to conflict and crimes : mining mafia

Tsunami

A tsunami is a series of powerful ocean waves caused by the displacement of a large volume of water.
Causes
- Earthquake > 6.5 on Richter scale
  - E.g. 2004 Indian ocean Tsunami
- Volcanic eruption
- Deep water Landslides
- Nuclear explosion, Celestial bodies(Asteroids, Meteorites)
Tsunamigenic regions
- Indonesian - affects east coast of India
- Makran - affects west coast of India
Effect
Measures | NDMA Guidelines

Floods

30 million hectares affected annually with floods. -MoES
As per forest survey of india, 50% of forest in the country is fire prone
Causes
- Heavy Rainfall
- River Overflow : excess rainfall, snowmelt, or dam failure
- Storm Surges : Tropical storms, hurricanes, and cyclones - coastal flooding
- Snowmelt and GLOF
- Dam failure
- Urban flooding
- Deforestation
- Poor Drainage Systems
- Climate Change
- Tsunamis

Environment and Disaster Management

Effects
- Loss of lives and injuries
- Displacement of People
- Destruction of Infrastructure
- Economic Losses
- Agricultural Losses
- Waterborne Diseases
- Contamination of Water Supplies
- Environmental Degradation
- Psychological and Social Impact : mental health; PTSD
- Disruption of Education
Measures
- Flood Forecasting and Early Warning Systems
  - E.g. Floodwatch app
- Improved Drainage Systems
- River Channel Management
- Flood protection infrastructure
  - dams, levees, embankments, floodgates, and reservoirs
- Wetland Restoration and Conservation
- Land Use and Zoning Regulations
- Community-Based Flood Management
- Afforestation and Reforestation
- Emergency Response Plans
- Public Awareness and Education

Urban Flooding

Causes
- Meteorological Factors - Rainfall, Depression, Low pressure area
- Anthropological Factors -
  - Improper disposal of solid waste
  - Land use Change

Surface sealing

Urban canyons

Climate Change - Occupation of the flood plains and waterbodies - Urban Heat Island Effect
- Hydrological Factors: - Presence of Soil moisture and groundwater level
Impact
Way forward
- Urban Flooding Cell (UFC)
- Zoning/mapping in development planning
- Design and Management of Urban Drainage
  - E.g. irrigation tanks of Kancheepuram
- Reclaiming wetlands and ecological hotspots
  - Creating ‘no development zones’
- Early Warning System e.g. Doppler Weather Radars
- Green Infrastructure
Example
- Chennai flooding

Draught

68% population is susceptible to drought -IMD
As per forest survey of india, 50% of forest in the country is fire prone
Causes - Natural, Anthropogenic
- Excessive evaporation
- Over utilisation
Types
- Meteorological - inadequate rainfall
- Agriculture - drought prone
- Hydrological - aquifers, lakes dried
- Ecological - ecological distress due to shortage of water
Effects
Measures
Examples
- Dubai, April 2024

Earthquakes

sudden and violent shaking of the ground because of tectonic , volcanic or other activities causing great destruction
As per the Vulnerability Atlas of India, 59% of India’s land area is under threat of moderate to severe earthquake.
Causes
- Natural
  - Tectonic : Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate boundary
  - Volcanic
- Anthropogenic
  - Mining
  - Construction of dams
  - Nuclear explosions
Causes of vulnerability (including above)
- High population density in high-risk seismic zone
  - E.g. Delhi, Srinagar, and Guwahati
- Non-compliance with seismic-resistant building codes

Environment and Disaster Management

Impact (earthquake related hazards)
- Landslides, Glacial bursts, Flash floods, Tsunami, Dam related hazards.
Major earthquake hazards
- Bhuj Earthquake (2001) - 7.7 on MSK Scale
- 1999 - Chamoli, Uttarakhand
- Uttarkashi Earthquake (1991)
- Bihar-Nepal Border Earthquake (2015)
- 2004 - Indian ocean
Measures
- Seismological hazard zone mapping
- GPS for monitoring movement of tectonic plates
- Enforcing seismic code
- dissemination of vulnerability risk information
- Surveys and Audits for preparing vulnerability maps
- Disaster resilient infrastructure - using right material (Reducing using concrete in Himalaya’s)
- Follow National building code of India - resilient infrastructure

Landslides

Landslides are a type of “mass wasting,” which denotes any down-slope movement of rock or debris under the influence of gravity.
According to GSI, 13.67% of India is prone to landslides
Indian Landslide Susceptibility Map (ILSM)
- 4.75% very highly susceptible


Himalayas	Western Ghats
- Tectonically activity - Very steep slopes - Cloudbursts - GLOF - Road construction and mining activities - Deforestation - Sedimentary rocks	- Heavy southwest rainfall - Steep slopes and vertical cliffs - Heavy weathering of rocks - Deforestation and agriculture on slopes - Road construction and mining - Very hard rocks

Causes
- Geological Factors :
  - Unconsolidated and fractured rocks
  - Plate boundaries
- Natural
  - Heavy rainfall
  - Earthquakes, volcanic explosions
  - Steep slopes and sedimentary rocks
  - Freeze-Thaw Cycles; coastal erosion
- Anthropogenic
  - Deforestation e.g. shifting agriculture
  - Construction activities
  - Mining and quarrying
  - Terrace cultivation
Effect
- Loss of Life
- Economic Losses
  - : disrupt transportation, agriculture, and tourism
  - Infrastructure Damage : Roads, bridges, and buildings
- Displacement of communities
- Environmental Impacts: soil erosion, pollution of water bodies, and habitat loss.
Measures
- Preventive Measures: Land Use Planning; Reforestation ; Slope Stabilization; Drainage Systems
- Geotechnical Monitoring and Early Warning Systems
- Emergency Preparedness: Education and Awareness; Evacuation Plans
- Post-Landslide Actions: Damage Assessment; Rehabilitation
National landslide risk management strategy
- Hazard zonation and mapping
  - Identification of High-Risk Areas
  - Planning and Land Use Management
  - Prescribe engineering solutions : retaining walls and drainage system
  - Critical Infrastructure Protection
  - Community Awareness
    - school curricula, community education programmes
  - Capacity Building
  - Insurance planning : hazard maps to determine premiums and coverage
  - Helps in formulating informed policies
- Capacity building and training
- Disaster Preparedness : evacuation plans and emergency response mechanisms.
Bhooskhalan Mobile app
Chopra Committee
- Geologically and ecologically sound Sustainable development
MC Mishra Committee - > Joshimath issue
Ushahidi Framework for empowering locals should be part and parcel of policy making.

Melting of Himalayan Glaciers

Impact on water resources
- Downstream water drainage
- Flash floods
  - E.g. Teesta, Sikkim 2023
- Sedimentation
- Glacial lake outburst floods
  - According to the IMD, Himalayan glacial lakes increased by about 9% in number, and 14% in the area
  - due to failure of moraine-dammed glacial lakes.
  - Causes

Natural

Loose deposits of glacial rocks, boulders, soil

Anthropogenic - CC, GW

Measures

Dam construction should be avoided

E.g. damages to Chungthang dam, Sikkim

Satellite monitoring

E.g. ISRO’s RESOURSESAT-2

E.g. South Lhonak lake, Sikkim 2023
Cascading disasters
- E.g. landslides, avalanches
Impact on human activities
- Agro practices; industries; tourism; transport; education; healthcare; services
ICIMOD - Himalayan glacial lakes increased by about 9% in number, and 14% in the area.
Way forward NDMA -
- using Synthetic-Aperture Radar imagery
- controlled drainage and tunnelling
- land-use regulations for GLOF-prone areas

Cloudbursts

According to IMD, cloudbursts are short-duration, intense rainfall events over a small area
Mechanism
- Orographic Lift
- Monsoon Dynamics
- Localized Low-Pressure Systems : vertically rising convection currents on heating
- Temperature Inversions
- Cyclonic Disturbances
Occurrence
- Himalayas
  - Chamoli, 2021
  - Amarnath Cloudburst (2022)
  - Kedarnath, 2013
- Western Ghats
- Northeast India
- Peninsular India
Causes
- Vulnerable terrain e.g. mountainous region, deserts etc
- Unstable clouds - cumulonimbus clouds
- Upward air movement
- Climate change

Environment and Disaster Management

Measures
- Early Warning Systems : Doppler radar systems by IMD
- Construction of Check Dams and Retention Basin
- Land Use Planning and regulation to avoid construction on flood-prone areas
- Reforestation and Afforestation
- Ushahidi Framework for empowering locals to be part and parcel of policy making.
- Chopra Committee

Heatwaves

Prolonged period of abnormally high temperature,
- 4.5 degree - 6.4 above normal; Heatwaves
- 6.4 degree above normal ; severe heatwaves
Causes
- Climate Change : greenhouse gas emissions trap more heat
- urban heat islands : concrete, asphalt, and reduced vegetation
- Atmospheric Circulation Patterns : Prevalence of hot dry air over a region
  - Below average rainfall
  - Cloudless skies
  - High pressures system - trap warm air
- Anthropogenic Activities: industrial activities, vehicular emissions
- Natural phenomena like El Niño
- Increase in Water Vapor : traps more heat
- Drought Condition
Effects
- Health
  - dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke
  - heat-related mortality
- Environmental Impacts:
  - Wildfires; Water Resources depletion; reduced agriculture yields
- Infrastructure Impact
  - Increased Energy Demand; heat damage - road surface melting, railway track buckling
- Economic Impacts:
  - Productivity Loss; Healthcare Costs
- Social
  - Disruption of education and recreational activities
Measures
- Heat Alerts and Warnings:
- Hydration and Safety Advice
- Heat action plans (HAPs) at various levels - local, district, national
  - creating shaded space, cool water, reorganizing school, college, office schedules
- support for vulnerable groups
- Afforestation and Reforestation:
- Urban Planning and Green Spaces:
- Renewable Energy Transition:
- Water Conservation and Management:
  - Restoring water bodies e.g. wetlands, ponds, lakes
- Landfill management
- Public Awareness and Education:

Cold waves

Prolonged period of abnormally low temperature
- < 4.5 degree - 6.4; coldwave
- < 6.4 degree; severe coldwave
Causes
- Polar Vortex:
- High pressure area in the jet stream
- La Niña Events:
- Cold air masses
- Radiational Cooling:
- Strong westerlies
- Oceanic Circulation Patterns
- Extensive snow covers over Himalayas
Effects
- Frostbite and Hypothermia
- Detrimental effects on crops e.g. Wheat, fruits, vegetables and livestock’s
- Increased Energy Consumption
Measures

Dam failure

Causes of Dam Failures
- Structural Defects due to poor design or construction flaws
- Unstable or weak foundations
- Excessive seepage through or under the dam
- Earthquakes
  - The Koynanagar Dam in 1967
- Extreme rainfall and cyclones
  - Banqiao Dam Failure, China (1975) - Estimated 171,000 deaths
- GLOF
  - Chungthang dam
- Sabotage
Measures
- Rigorous Design and Construction Standards
- Regular Inspections and Maintenance
- Real-time Monitoring Systems
- Improved Spillway Design: to handle extreme flood events
- Emergency Action Plans (EAPs)
- Community Awareness and Training

Disaster management

a comprehensive approach to preventing disasters and dealing with them

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)

is the concept and practice of reducing disaster risks through systematic efforts that involve identifying, assessing, and mitigating the impacts of disaster.
M-PPP-I-RRR

Constraints of DRR

Lack of coordination
Limited involvement of community
Unplanned urbanization
- E.g., repeated incidents of urban flooding
Low Technological interventions
- E.g., use of robots, drones, Advance Warning System

Measures

Comprehensive Framework

National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP), 2016 - Shortcomings - Does not provide precise time frame - Does not set any goals or targets - Early warning system - Doppler weather radars - NAVTEX - navigational text message - Disaster Risk Financing - National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), SDRF - Preparedness - Urban development - - smart cities mission, AMRUT - Financial preparedness - - PM Suraksha Bima, PM Fasal Bima, Ayushman Bharat - PM Cares Fund - Technological innovations - E.g. Metaverse - simulating disaster drills - Prevention and Mitigation - Gathering Data and Information and prediction - - GAGAN satellite - Avalanche Monitoring Radar (AMR) - Vulnerability zoning maps - (Vulnerability Atlas of India) - Disaster risk mitigation project - e.g. NDMA NCRMP - Public Awareness , local capacity building - Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDM) program - E.g. Quick response teams (QRT) - Disaster resilient infrastructure - CRDI - Local Capacity building - Aapda Mitra Schemes - Response, Relief and Rehabilitation - National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Expansion - Evacuation, construction of shelters and relief camps, supplying of water, food, clothing and medical aids etc. - Ensure hygiene, sanitation, water, food - Medical facilities - Special care to widows and orphans - Damage Assessment - Recovery - Post disaster need assessment - Restoration of damaged physical infrastructure - Revitalize economic activities - 3R’s -> 3P’s - Rescue, relief and restoration -> prevention, preparedness and proofing.
PK Mishra Committee strengthening NDMA and preparation of National Plan should be given due consideration

Environment and Disaster Management

15th FC and CAG recommendation for creation of NDM Fund should be undertaken.
NCRWC - include disaster management in concurrent list

Vulnerability to disaster

Susceptibility of community being exposed to hazards

International cooperation

UN International Strategy for disaster reduction (UNISDR)
Yokohama strategy
Disaster management exercises
- BIMSTEC
Build back better
Multi Hazard risk management

Sandai framework

7 Global targets and 4 Priorities

Understanding disaster risk
Strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk
Investing in disaster reduction for resilience
Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response, and to “Build Back Better” in recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction

Laws and government initiatives

NDMA, 2005
NDM Plan, 2016
- Shortcomings
  - Does not provide precise time frame
  - Does not set any goals or targets
Indian Coast Guards Remote operating centers
IMD
- Dynamic, impact based cyclone warning system
DM act, 2005
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)

2nd ARC 3rd Report - Crisis Management

Disaster management in concurrent list
Disaster Management in school curriculum
Use of IT and GIS solutions
State government in leading role
National Policy on Disaster Management

Disaster Resilient Infrastructure

Planning
- Risk assessment
- Building codes
Construction
- Appropriate materials
- Local sourcing
Maintenance
Operational measures
- Early warning systems
- Emergency response plans
- Disaster risk financing

Conclusion

Following Prime Minister’s Ten Point Agenda on Disaster Risk Reduction

Desertification

Causes
- Overgrazing,
- Unsustainable agricultural practices
- Overextraction of groundwater
- Deforestation
- Green house gas emission
- Overuse of fertilizers and irrigation leading to salinization and alkalinization of land
- Climate change : changing precipitation patterns, draughts, extreme weather events
Examples
- Sahel Region of Africa
- Aral Sea
- Amazon Rainforest
- Punjab Plains
- Steppes
Way forward
- Reforestation
- Sustainable agriculture
- Watershed development and rainwater harvesting
- Land management practices like sand fences, shelterbelt, windbreaks

Vulnerability

Vulnerability is the potential for damage due to disaster. It encompasses various dimensions, including physical, social, economic, and environmental aspects.
Characterizing Vulnerability
- Exposure : degree to which people, property, and infrastructure are located in disaster-prone areas.
- Sensitivity : The degree to which people and systems are affected by hazards.
- Resilience : ability to adapt and recover for impact of hazard
- Coping capacity : resources and skills available to cope with disaster
Types of Vulnerability
- Physical :
  - Quality, location, and design of buildings and infrastructure
  - population density
- Social :
  - Factors like age, gender, disability, and health status influencing capacities.
    - E.g. elderlies more prone
  - Levels of education and awareness
Economic :
- Low income levels
- Dependence on vulnerable livelihoods like forest, agriculture, fishing
Environmental :
- Degradation of ecosystems such as deforestation, wetland loss
- Changes in climate patterns
Institutional : effectiveness of government agencies and institutions

Carbon cycle

Weathering of plant material
Microbial Decomposition
- Cellulose Breakdown into simpler sugars like glucose.
- Fermentation glucose into organic acids, alcohols
- Mineralization

SXJEEL

On This Site

Environment and Disaster Management RC

Vocab

Environment

Introductions

Conclusion

Data

Examples

Policy contradictions and environmental impact

Measures to address

Conservation

Biodiversity

Mangrove conservation

Wetland conservation

Water conservation

Way Forward

Expected questions

Biodiversity (Detailed)

Consequences of spreading of ‘Dead Zones’ on marine ecosystem

Biological Diversity Act, 2002

Mangroves

Carrying capacity

Pollution and degradation

Food waste

Causes/Sources of Pollution & Degradation

Air pollution

Global Air Quality Guidelines(AQG) - World Health organization

Indian’s National Clean Air Program

Photochemical smog

Causes

Impact

Government initiatives

Measures

Water Pollution

Solid waste pollution

Sand Mining

Land degradation

E-waste

Oil pollution

Impact of Pollution & Degradation

Prevention & Control of Pollution & Degradation

Government initiatives

National Environment Agencies, Legislations and Policies

Climate Change and global warming

Introduction

Data

Global warming

Climate change

Causes

Anthropogenic causes

Natural causes

Impacts

Climate change impacts on food security

Sea level rise - impacts

Kyoto protocol

Measures

Comprehensive national plan

Mitigation

Adaption

International cooperation

Empower local communities

Scientific Research and Monitoring

Government initiatives

National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): 8 Missions

India’s 5 point pledge or Panchamrit (Glasgow 2021):

Conclusion

Sustainable development

Environmental Impact Assessment

Introduction

EIA Process - SSB-APM-Public-MPC

Significance

Shortcomings of EIA(notification), 2020

Measures | Way forward

Conclusion

Disaster and DM

Introduction

Types of Disasters

Notified Disasters under DM Act 2005

Coastal erosion | Cyclones