UNIT 1 Environment & Climate Change 1.1 Environment 1.1.1 Definition of EnvironmentThe environment refers to the natural world in which living organisms, including humans, interact with the physical surroundings. It includes all living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components that exist naturally on Earth and interact with each other in various ways. The environment encompasses everything that surrounds us and influences our ability to live, including the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil that supports plant life. 1.1.2 Components of the Environment The environment is composed of several key components that interact and depend on each other:1. Atmosphere- The atmosphere is the layer of gases that surrounds the Earth. It provides oxygen for living organisms, protects the planet from harmful solar radiation, and plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's temperature. The main components of the atmosphere include: . Nitrogen (Nz): Makes up about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. . Oxygen (Oz): Constitutes around 21% of the atmosphere. . Other Gases: Includes argon, carbon dioxide, neon, and trace gases. 2. Hydrosphere- The hydrosphere encompasses all water bodies on Earth, including oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, groundwater, and ice caps. It covers approximately 71% of the Earth's surface and is essential for supporting life, regulatingclimate, and shaping landscapes. The water cycle, which includes processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation, is a crucial part of the hydrosphere. 3. Lithosphere- The lithosphere is the solid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. It includes: - Continental Crust: The landmasses we live on, composed mainly of granitic rocks. . Oceanic Crust: The seafloor, made primarily of basaltic rocks. . Soil: A vital component of the lithosphere, supporting plant life and agriculture.4. Biosphere- The biosphere comprises all living organisms on Earth, including plants, animals, fungi, microorganisms, and humans. It includes various ecosystems where biotic and abiotic components interact, such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, deserts, and marine ecosystems. The biosphere plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting life. 5. Anthroposphere- This component refers to human activities and their impact on the natural environment. It includes urban areas, infrastructure, industries, agriculture, and other human- made systems. The anthroposphere significantly influences the other components of the environment through pollution, deforestation, and resource consumption.1.1.3 Types of Environments 1, Natural Environment This type of environment includes all living and non-living things that occur naturally on Earth. It is further divided into various ecosystems and biomes, each with its unique characteristics and biodiversity. Examples include: . Forests: Dense areas of trees and plants, rich in biodiversity. - Deserts: Arid regions with minimal precipitation and sparse vegetation. - Oceans: Vast bodies of saltwater covering about 71% of Earth's surface.- Mountains: Elevated regions with diverse climates and ecosystems. 2. Built Environment The built environment consists of human-made structures and spaces where people live, work, and engage in recreational activities. This type of environment includes: . Urban Areas: Cities and towns with dense populations, buildings, and infrastructure. . Suburban Areas: Residential areas situated on the outskirts of urban centers. . Industrial Areas: Zones designated for manufacturing and other industrial activities.- Rural Areas: Countryside regions with low population density and agricultural land. 3. Social Environment The social environment refers to the cultural, economic, and political conditions in which people live. It encompasses social structures, institutions, and relationships that influence individuals and communities. Key components include: . Cultural Environment: Traditions, beliefs, languages, and arts that shape societies. - Economic Environment: The financial and economic systems, including markets, industries, and employment opportunities.- Political Environment: The governance structures, laws, policies, and political stability of a region. 4. Biological Environment The biological environment involves the living organisms and their interactions within ecosystems. It includes: - Flora and Fauna: Plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. . Habitat: The natural home or environment of an organism. - Population Dynamics: The study of how populations of species change over time and space. 5. Physical Environment{ENVIRONMENT EDUCATION AND SUSTAINABILITY EES 314301 MEAK) The physical environment consists of abiotic components, such as landforms, climate, water bodies, and natural resources. These elements influence the living conditions and activities of organisms. Examples include: - Geological Features: Mountains, valleys, plains, and plateaus. - Climate: Weather patterns and climatic conditions of a region. . Water Bodies: Rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater. - Soil and Minerals: The Earth's crust materials that support plant growth and provide resources. 6. Chemical EnvironmentThe chemical environment involves the chemical composition and processes occurring in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere. It includes: . Air Quality: The concentration of pollutants and gases in the atmosphere. . Water Quality: The chemical properties of water bodies, including pH, dissolved oxygen, and contaminants. - Soil Composition: The chemical makeup of soils, including nutrients and pollutants.1.1.4 Need for Environmental Studies 1. Awareness and Education: Environmental studies educate individuals about the importance of the natural world and the impacts of human actions. This awareness fosters a sense of responsibility towards protecting and preserving the environment. 2. Sustainable Development: By understanding the principles of sustainability, environmental studies help us develop strategies to meet our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It promotes the balanced use of resources.3. Addressing Environmental Issues: Environmental studies enable us to identify, analyze, and find solutions to pressing environmental issues such as pollution, deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss. This is crucial for maintaining ecological balance. 4. Policy and Decision Making: Knowledge from environmental studies informs policymakers and helps them create effective environmental regulations and policies. It ensures that decisions are made with a comprehensive understanding of environmental impacts. 5. Conservation and Preservation: Environmental studies highlight the importance of conserving natural resources and preserving biodiversity. It encourages actions to protect endangered species and critical habitats.{ENVIRONMENT EDUCATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 5 314901 MEA) 6. Health and Well-being: A healthy environment is essential for human health and well-being. Environmental studies explore the connections between environmental quality and public health, helping to prevent and address health issues related to environmental pollution and degradation. 7. Economic Benefits: Understanding the environment can lead to economic benefits through the promotion of eco-friendly technologies, sustainable agriculture, and conservation practices that save costs and resources. In summary, environmental studies are vital for creating a sustainable and healthy planet. They empower individuals, communities, and governments to make informed decisions and take actions that protect the environment and ensure a better quality of life for all.1.2 Environmental Issues 1.2.1 Climate Change Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other aspects of the Earth's climate system. While climate change has naturally occurred throughout Earth's history, recent changes are primarily driven by human activities, especially since the Industrial Revolution. The main contributors include: . Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide (COz), methane (CHa), and nitrous oxide (N20), which trap heat in the atmosphere.. Deforestation: The clearing of forests for agriculture, urban development, and logging reduces the number of trees that can absorb COz, further increasing atmospheric COz2 levels. - Industrial Processes: Emissions from manufacturing and chemical processes contribute additional greenhouse gases and pollutants. Impacts of Climate Change include: . Global Warming: The average global temperature has risen, leading to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers. - Sea-Level Rise: Melting ice and the expansion of seawater as it warms contribute to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities. . Extreme Weather: Increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, floods, and heatwaves.- Ecosystem Disruption: Changes in temperature and precipitation affect ecosystems and wildlife, leading to shifts in habitats and migration patterns. - Human Health: Climate change can exacerbate health issues, including heat-related illnesses, respiratory problems, and the spread of infectious diseases.1.2.2 Global Warming Global warming is the ongoing rise in global average temperatures near Earth's surface. It is a major component of climate change, driven primarily by human activities that increase the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Key points include: . Greenhouse Effect: Greenhouse gases trap heat from the Sun in the Earth's atmosphere, preventing it from escaping back into space. This natural process is essential for maintaining a habitable climate, but excessive greenhouse gases amplify the effect, leading to warming. . Anthropogenic Causes: Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes, are the main sources of increased greenhouse gas emissions.Impacts of Global Warming: . Temperature Rise: The Earth's average temperature has increased, leading to hotter summers and milder winters. . Ice Melt: Glaciers and polar ice caps are melting at an accelerated rate, contributing to sea-level rise. - Ocean Warming: Increased temperatures affect ocean currents and marine ecosystems, leading to coral bleaching and loss of marine biodiversity. . Agricultural Impact: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affect crop yields and food security.1.2.3 Acid Rain Acid rain refers to precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or fog) that contains higher-than-normal levels of sulfuric and nitric acids. It is primarily caused by emissions of sulfur dioxide (SOz) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from burning fossil fuels and industrial processes. Key points include: . Formation: SOz and NOx react with water vapor and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form sulfuric and nitric acids. These acids then fall to the ground as acid rain. . Sources: Major sources of these pollutants include coal- fired power plants, vehicle emissions, industrial facilities, and some natural sources like volcanoes.Impacts of Acid Rain: . Environmental Damage: Acid rain can harm forests, soils, lakes, and rivers by leaching essential nutrients and releasing toxic metals. . Aquatic Life: Increased acidity in water bodies can harm fish and other aquatic organisms, disrupting ecosystems. . Infrastructure: Acid rain accelerates the decay of buildings, monuments, and infrastructure by corroding materials like limestone and marble.1.2.4 Ozone Layer Depletion The ozone layer is a protective layer in the Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Ozone layer depletion refers to the thinning of this layer, primarily caused by the release of man-made chemicals known as ozone-depleting substances (ODS). Key points include: - ODS: Substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other related chemicals are the main culprits. These chemicals were commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, foam production, and aerosol propellants. - Chemical Reactions: When ODS are released into the atmosphere, they eventually reach the stratosphere, where UV radiation breaks them down, releasing chlorine andbromine atoms. These atoms destroy ozone (O3) molecules, leading to thinning of the ozone layer. Consequences of Ozone Layer Depletion: . Increased UV Radiation: More UV-B radiation reaches the Earth's surface, which can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems in humans. . Environmental Effects: Increased UV radiation can harm marine ecosystems, particularly plankton, and damage crops and other vegetation. . Montreal Protocol: An international treaty adopted in 1987 to phase out the production and use of ODS. It has been successful in reducing ODS emissions and allowing the ozone layer to recover slowly.1.2.5 Nuclear Accidents Nuclear accidents involve the umintended release of radioactive materials from nuclear power plants or other nuclear facilities. Such incidents can result from equipment failure, human error, or natural disasters. Notable nuclear accidents include: . Chernobyl Disaster (1986): A reactor explosion and fire at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine released large amounts of radioactive particles into the atmosphere, causing immediate fatalities and long-term health and environmental impacts. The area around Chernobyl remains highly contaminated and largely uninhabitable. . Fukushima Daiichi Disaster (2011): A massive earthquake and tsunami damaged the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Japan, leading to reactor meltdowns and the release[ewRoNMENTEDUCATION ISTANABIUTVEES 314301 ME&K) of radioactive materials. The disaster resulted in widespread contamination, evacuation of residents, and long-term health and environmental concerns. Impacts of Nuclear Accidents: - Radiation Exposure: Immediate and long-term health effects, including acute radiation sickness, increased cancer risk, and genetic damage. . Environmental Contamination: Radioactive materials can contaminate air, water, soil, and living organisms, leading to long-term ecological damage. - Economic and Social Disruption: Cleanup and recovery efforts can be costly, and affected communities may face long-term displacement and economic hardship.1.2.6.1 Effects of Population Growth 1. Resource Depletion: As the population increases, the demand for natural resources such as water, minerals, fossil fuels, and arable land also rises. Over-extraction and overuse of these resources can lead to scarcity and depletion. 2. Environmental Degradation: Higher population density often results in greater waste production and pollution. Urbanization and deforestation to accommodate growing populations contribute to habitat loss, soil erosion, and decreased biodiversity. 3. Increased Waste: More people generate more waste, including solid waste, sewage, and electronic waste. Proper waste management becomes challenging, leading to pollution of land, water, and air.4. Pressure on Infrastructure: Rapid population growth can strain infrastructure such as transportation systems, healthcare, education, and housing. This can lead to overcrowding, increased traffic congestion, and inadequate public services. 5. Food Security: With more mouths to feed, food production must increase. This can result in intensified agricultural practices, overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and conversion of natural habitats into farmland. 6. Economic Challenges: A growing population requires more jobs, which can be difficult to provide, leading to higher unemployment rates and economic instability. Additionally, resources must be allocated for social services such as healthcare and education.a. Effects of Industrialization 1. Environmental Pollution: Industrial activities release pollutants into the air, water, and soil. Common pollutants include sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals. This pollution can cause health problems, harm wildlife, and degrade ecosystems. 2. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Industries are major sources of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and global warming. The burning of fossil fuels for energy and industrial processes release large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. 3. Resource Extraction: Industrialization increases the demand for raw materials, leading to extensive mining, deforestation, and overfishing. This extraction can result in habitat destruction and biodiversity loss.4. Economic Growth: On_ the positive _ side, industrialization can drive economic growth by creating jobs, increasing productivity, and generating wealth. It can lead to improved standards of living and technological advancements. 5. Urbanization: Industrialization often leads to the growth of cities as people move to urban areas in search of employment. This urbanization can result in overpopulation, inadequate housing, and strain on urban infrastructure.13 Concept of 5R 1. Refuse Refuse means saying no to things you don't need or that are harmful to the environment. It's the first step in minimizing waste. By refusing unnecessary items, you prevent waste from being created in the first place. . Actions: Decline single-use plastics like straws, cutlery, and bags. Avoid products with excessive packaging. Say no to free promotional items that you don't need.2. Reduce Reduce involves minimizing the amount of waste you produce by consciously making choices that decrease consumption and waste generation. It's about being mindful of what you buy and use. . Actions: Purchase only what you need, opt for products with less packaging, choose high-quality items that last longer, and reduce energy and water usage in your daily activities.3. Reuse Reuse encourages finding new ways to use items instead of throwing them away. It extends the life of products and reduces the need for new resources. . Actions: Use reusable items such as shopping bags, water bottles, and coffee cups. Repair broken items instead of buying new ones. Donate unwanted items to charity or give them to someone who can use them.4. Repurpose Repurpose means creatively reusing items for a different purpose than they were originally intended for. It's about thinking outside the box to give new life to old items. . Actions: Turn old jars into storage containers, use worn-out clothes as cleaning rags, or transform an old ladder into a bookshelf. Repurposing reduces waste and can add a unique touch to your home.5. Recycle Recycle involves processing materials so they can be used to make new products. Recycling helps conserve resources and reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills. . Actions: Sort your waste into appropriate recycling bins, follow local recycling guidelines, and recycle items such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal. Buy products made from recycled materials. By incorporating the principles of refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle into our daily lives, we can significantly reduce our environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Each action, no matter how small, makes a difference!1.3.1 Individuals Participation in 5R Policy 1. Refuse: « Avoid single-use plastics like straws, bags, and cutlery. « Say no to unnecessary packaging and promotional items. « Choose products with minimal or eco-friendly packaging. 2. Reduce: « Purchase only what you need to avoid excess waste. . Opt for durable, high-quality items that last longer. « Reduce energy and water consumption by using energy- efficient appliances and fixing leaks.3. Reuse: Use reusable shopping bags, water bottles, coffee cups, and containers. « Donate or sell items you no longer need instead of discarding them. - Repair broken items instead of replacing them. 4. Repurpose: . Get creative by finding new uses for old items (e.g., turning jars into storage containers, using old clothes as cleaning rags). « Upcycle furniture or other household items for new purposes.Recycle: « Sort recyclables according to local guidelines (e.g., paper, plastic, glass, metal). . Drop off recyclables at designated collection points. . Purchase products made from recycled materials.1.3.2 Individuals Participation in Segregation of waste At Home 1. Set Up Separate Bins: Have different bins for different types of waste, such as: > Organic Waste: Food scraps, vegetable peels, and garden waste. « Recyclables: Paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, and metal. « Non-Recyclables: Items that cannot be recycled, such as certain types of plastic, styrofoam, and mixed materials. . Hazardous Waste: Batteries, electronic waste, chemicals, and medical waste.2. Educate Yourself and Family: Learn about your local waste management guidelines and educate family members about the importance of waste segregation and how to do it properly. 3. Reduce and Reuse: Minimize waste generation by buying only what you need, using reusable products, and repurposing items instead of discarding them. 4. Composting: Start a compost bin for organic waste, which can be used to create nutrient-rich manure for your garden.At Work and School 1. Promote Awareness: Encourage colleagues and students. to segregate waste by organizing awareness campaigns and training sessions. 2. Provide Proper Facilities: Ensure there are clearly labeled bins for different types of waste in common areas such as cafeterias, offices, and classrooms. 3. Lead by Example: Set a good example by consistently segregating your own waste and encouraging others to do the same.In the Community 1. Community Clean-ups: Participate in or organize community clean-up events to promote waste segregation and proper disposal practices. 2. Advocate for Better Practices: Advocate for improved waste management facilities and policies in your community, such as more recycling centers and better waste collection services. 3. Volunteer: Volunteer with local environmental organizations to support waste segregation initiatives and educate others about its importance.1.3.3 Individuals Participation in Creating Manure from Domestic Waste Creating manure from domestic waste is a fantastic way to recycle organic matter and reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. Here's how individuals can participate in composting and creating manure from their household waste: 1. Set Up a Composting System: . Choose a Compost Bin: You can buy a compost bin or build one using materials like wood pallets. Ensure it has good ventilation and drainage. . Find a Suitable Location: Place your compost bin in a shady, well-drained spot in your yard or garden.2. Collect Organic Waste: . Kitchen Scraps: Collect fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, and other food scraps. . Yard Waste: Gather leaves, grass clippings, small branches, and garden trimmings. « Avoid: Do not add meat, dairy, oily foods, and diseased plants to your compost pile, as these can attract pests and create odors. 3. Layering: . Brown Materials: Start with a layer of coarse materials like small branches for aeration. Add dry leaves, straw, and cardboard to provide carbon.» Green Materials: Add layers of green materials like vegetable scraps and fresh grass clippings to provide nitrogen. Balance: Maintain a good balance between brown (carbon-rich) and green (nitrogen-rich) materials for efficient composting. Using the Compost: Garden Soil Enrichment: Use the finished compost to enrich your garden soil. It improves soil structure, adds nutrients, and enhances water retention. Potted Plants: Mix compost with potting soil to provide nutrients to your indoor and outdoor plants. Lawn Care: Spread a thin layer of compost on your lawn to promote healthy grass growth.1.4 Impact of Climate Change Climate change has profound effects on the environment, economy, and society: - Rising Temperatures: Increased global temperatures lead to more frequent and severe heatwaves. . Sea-Level Rise: Melting ice caps and glaciers cause sea levels to rise, threatening coastal communities. . Extreme Weather: Higher frequency of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, droughts, and wildfires. - Ecosystem Disruption: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns disrupt ecosystems and biodiversity. - Health Issues: Increased incidence of heat-related illnesses, respiratory problems, and the spread of vector-borne diseases.Factors Contributing to Climate Change Several key factors drive climate change: . Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy releases CO2, CHa, and NaO into the atmosphere. . Deforestation: The clearing of forests for agriculture and urban development reduces the number of trees that can absorb COz. - Industrial Processes: Emissions from manufacturing and industrial activities contribute to greenhouse gas concentrations. . Agriculture: Methane emissions from livestock and rice paddies, as well as nitrous oxide from fertilizers, contribute to climate change.1.4.1 Concept of Sustainable Development Sustainable development aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes a balance between economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection. Key principles include: . Resource Efficiency: Using resources more efficiently to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact. . Equity: Ensuring that development benefits are distributed fairly and that vulnerable populations are not left behind. . Intergenerational Responsibility: Considering the long- term impacts of development on future generations.1.4.2 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The United Nations has outlined 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address global challenges by 2030. Key goals include: 1. No Poverty: Ending poverty in all its forms everywhere. 2. Zero Hunger: Achieving food security and promoting sustainable agriculture. 3. Good Health and Well-being: Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. 4. Quality Education: Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education. 5. Gender Equality: Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls. 6. Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation.7. Affordable and Clean Energy: Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy. 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth: Promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth. 9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Building resilient infrastructure and promoting innovation. 10. Reduced Inequality: Reducing inequality within and among countries, 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities: Making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. 12. Responsible Consumption and Production: Ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. 13. Climate Action: Taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.14. Life Below Water: Conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources. 15. Life on Land: Protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. 16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies. 17. Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening global partnerships to achieve the SDGs.1.4.3 Action Plan on Climate Change in Indian Perspectives India has developed a comprehensive action plan to address climate change, focusing on both mitigation and adaptation strategies: . National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008, NAPCC outlines eight national missions, including solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and protecting the Himalayan ecosystem. - Renewable Energy Targets: India aims to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, with a significant focus on solar and wind power.. Afforestation Programs: Initiatives to increase forest cover and enhance carbon sinks through tree planting and forest conservation. - Climate Resilient Agriculture: Promoting sustainable agricultural practices to enhance resilience to climate change impacts. . International Cooperation: India actively participates in international climate negotiations and has committed to reducing its emissions intensity under the Paris Agreement.1.5 Zero Carbon Footprint for Sustainable Development A zero carbon footprint means achieving net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by balancing the amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount sequestered or offset. This is crucial for sustainable development as it helps mitigate climate change, reduce pollution, and promote environmental health.Key strategies include: - Renewable Energy: Transitioning to solar, wind, hydro, and other renewable energy sources. - Energy _—_ Efficiency: Implementing energy-saving technologies and practices in industries, buildings, and transportation. - Carbon Offsetting: Investing in projects that absorb or offset carbon emissions, such as reforestation and carbon capture technologies. . Sustainable Practices: Encouraging sustainable agriculture, waste reduction, and eco-friendly products.1.5.1 Environment Conservation in Vedic and Pre-Vedic India Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in ancient India emphasized harmony with nature and sustainable living. Vedic and pre-Vedic texts highlight: - Nature Worship: Reverence for natural elements like rivers, trees, and animals. . Sustainable Practices: Guidelines for agriculture, water conservation, and forest management. - Ecological Balance: Emphasis on maintaining ecological balance and protecting biodiversity. - Ethical Living: Promoting ethical and responsible living to minimize environmental impact.