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Environmental_Studies_Exam_Guide

Guide

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q4vkgsd9nd
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Environmental Studies – Exam Guide

Unit 1: Introduction to Environmental Studies

1. Introduction to Environmental Studies


Environmental Studies (EVS) is an interdisciplinary subject that explores the
relationship between humans and nature. It focuses on natural resources, pollution,
biodiversity, and sustainability.

Key environmental concerns:


- Deforestation – Forest loss due to agriculture and urbanization.
- Climate Change – Rising global temperatures from greenhouse gases.
- Water Scarcity – Overuse and pollution of freshwater resources.
- Biodiversity Loss – Extinction of species due to habitat destruction.

2. Scope and Importance of EVS


EVS is essential for:
- Education & Awareness – Understanding environmental issues.
- Resource Conservation – Sustainable use of water, forests, and minerals.
- Industrial and Economic Growth – Encouraging green technologies.
- Policy Making – Informing laws and international treaties like the Paris
Agreement (2015) and Environmental Protection Act (1986, India).

3. Sustainable Development
Sustainable development ensures progress without harming future generations.

Key principles:
1. Intergenerational Equity – Protecting resources for the future.
2. Polluter Pays Principle – Industries must pay for the pollution they cause.
3. Precautionary Principle – Preventing environmental damage before it happens.

Global efforts:
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – 17 global goals addressing poverty,
climate change, and responsible consumption.
- Kyoto Protocol – Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

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

Unit 2: Environmental Issues

1. Environmental Performance Index (EPI)


The EPI ranks countries based on environmental policies and sustainability.

Major factors:
- Air Quality – Pollution levels and health impacts.
- Water Resources – Access to clean water and sanitation.
- Biodiversity and Habitat – Protection of forests and wildlife.
- Climate Policy – Efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

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

2. Ecotourism
Ecotourism promotes responsible travel that conserves nature and benefits local
communities.

Principles:
- Conservation – Protecting wildlife and landscapes.
- Community Involvement – Supporting local economies.
- Sustainability – Minimizing environmental impact.

Examples:
- Kaziranga National Park (India) – Protects one-horned rhinos through regulated
tourism.
- Galápagos Islands (Ecuador) – Strict visitor regulations preserve marine
biodiversity.

3. Love Canal Tragedy


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

What happened:
- Hooker Chemical Company dumped toxic waste in an area later developed into a
residential neighborhood.
- Chemical leaks caused severe health problems, including birth defects and cancer.

Impact:
- Led to the Superfund Act (CERCLA, 1980), holding industries responsible for waste
clean-up.
- Increased awareness about hazardous waste disposal.

Unit 3: Biodiversity

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

Criteria:
1. At least 1,500 endemic plant species.
2. Lost at least 70% of original vegetation.

Major hotspots in India:


- Himalayas – Home to Snow leopards, Red pandas.
- Western Ghats – Hosts endemic species like Nilgiri Tahr.
- Sundaland (Nicobar Islands) – Rich in marine biodiversity.

2. Biodiversity Conservation
Biodiversity conservation methods include:

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


- National Parks – Ex: Jim Corbett, Kaziranga.
- Wildlife Sanctuaries – Ex: Gir (Asiatic lions).
- Biosphere Reserves – Ex: Sundarbans, Nilgiri.

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


- Zoos and Botanical Gardens – Preserve endangered species.
- Seed Banks – Store plant genetic material.
- Captive Breeding Programs – Project Tiger, Project Elephant.

3. Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere reserves balance conservation with human activity.

Structure:
- Core Zone – Strictly protected area.
- Buffer Zone – Limited research and tourism allowed.
- Transition Zone – Sustainable resource use permitted.

Examples in India:
- Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve – Part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.
- Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve – Protects mangrove forests and Bengal tigers.

4. Species Information
- Endangered Species – Species facing extinction (e.g., Red Panda, Bengal Tiger).
- Extinct Species – Species that no longer exist (e.g., Dodo, Passenger Pigeon).
- Keystone Species – Species essential for ecosystem stability (e.g., Elephants,
Bees).

Extra Topics

1. Basics of Climate Change and Global Warming


- Climate Change – Long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns.
- Global Warming – Increase in Earth's temperature due to greenhouse gases.

Causes:
- Fossil Fuel Burning – CO₂ emissions from industries and vehicles.
- Deforestation – Reduces natural carbon absorption.
- Agriculture & Livestock – Methane emissions from cattle.

Effects:
- Melting glaciers and rising sea levels.
- Extreme weather events (droughts, hurricanes).
- Loss of biodiversity and coral bleaching.

Solutions:
- Renewable Energy – Solar, wind, and hydropower.
- Afforestation and Reforestation.
- Carbon Capture Technologies.

2. Current Environmental News


Stay updated on:
- Recent COP (Conference of Parties) climate meetings.
- Deforestation and afforestation projects.
- Major oil spills, wildfires, and their ecological impact.
- New policies on biodiversity conservation.

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