TS Inter 1st Year Economics Study Material 10th Lesson Basic Statistics for Economics

Long Answer Questions

Question 1.
Explain one dimensional diagram with suitable examples.
Answer:
The following are the common types of diagrams, which are used in statistical analysis.

One Dimensional Diagrams :
In such diagrams only one dimensional measurement, i.e, height is used, the width is not considered.
a) Simple Bar Diagrams :
Simple bar diagrams are used to present individual observations, time series and spatial series.

b) Sub – divided Bar Diagrams :
In a sub-divided bar diagram, the bar is subdivided into various parts in proportion to the values given in the data and the whole bar represents the total. Such diagram is also called “components bar diagram”. Such a diagram shows total as well as various components.

c) Multiple Bar Diagrams :
Such diagrams are used to compare two or more variables. The method of drawing multiple bar diagrams is shown in figure with the help of an example.

d) Percentage Bar Diagram :
Relative changes are studied with the help of percentage bar diagrams. The length of the bar is treated as 100 units. Each bar is divided on the basis of percentage.

Quetion 2.
Calculate arithmetic mean from the following data.

Answer:
The above data relates to inclusive method changed into exclusive method. Deduc¬tive 0.5 from lower limit, add 0.5 to upper limit changed as above data.

Here, A = Assumed mean = 54.5
∑ fd’ Sum of the product of deviations (d) taken from the assumed mean multiplied with its respective frequencies = – 374
N = Total no. of frequencies = 200
i = Class interval = 10
Substitute these values in above equation
\(\overline{\mathrm{x}}\) = 54.5 + (\(\frac{-374}{200}\)) × 10
= 54.5 + (-1.87) × 10 = 54.5 + (-18.7)
\(\overline{\mathrm{x}}\) = 35.8

Question 3.
Compute median for the data given below.

Solution:

Median = L₁(\(\frac{\frac{N}{2}-C F}{f}\)) × i
Location of median class = \(\frac{N^{th}}{2}\) item
= \(\frac{100^{th}}{2}\)
= 50^th item
L₁ = Lower limit of the median class = 30 N
\(\frac{N}{2}\) = Median value = 50

CF = Cumulative frequency of the class preceeding to the median class = 40
f = Frequency of the median class = 30
i = class interval = 10
Substitute these values in the above formula
= 30 + (\(\frac{50-40}{30}\)) × 10
= 30 + (\(\frac{10}{30}\)) × 10
= 30 + (0.33) × 10
= 30 + 3.33 = 33.3
∴ Median = 33.3

Question 4.
Locate modal value for the below given data.

Answer:
Grouping Classification Table


(2)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of two rows each.
(3)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of two rows each leaving first row.
(4)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of three rows each.
(5)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of three rows each leaving first row.
(6)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of three rows each leaving second row.

The analysis table, presented below, is prepared with the help of classification table,
Analysis Table

From the analysis table, it is found that 6000 has occurred many times, i.e., 6 times. Therefore, Z = 6000

Question 5.
Draw the pie diagram for following data.

Solution:
Area changed into Degree =

Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
What is Statistics? Explain its relationship with Economics. [Mar.’17]
Answer:
There is a close relationship between statistics and economics. In the words of Tugwell, “The science of economics is becoming statistical in its method”. All the economic laws are pronounced on the basis of statistical facts and figures. The theory of population of Malthus, the law of family expenditure of Engels etc., were propounded after statistical tests. Statistics helps the economics to become an exact science.

In the study of theoretical economics, the application and use of statistical methods are of great importance. Most of the doctrines of economics are based on the study of a large number of units and their analysis. This is done through statistical methods. Law of demand was formulated because of statistical methods.

The importance of statistics is felt in all branches of knowledge in accountancy and auditing in banking, in insurance, in research and in many fields. Without statistics no branch of knowledge is complete.

Question 2.
Explain simple and sub – divided bar diagrams with examples.
Answer:
The following are the common types of diagrams, which are used in statistical analysis.

1. One Dimensional Diagrams :
In such diagrams only one dimensional measurement, i.e, height is used, the width is not considered.

1) Simple Bar Diagrams :
Simple bar diagrams are used to present individual observations, time series and spatial series. The method of drawing simple bar diagram is explained with the help of the example.

Example :
Draw the simple diagram from the following data relating to Censs of India from 1901 to 2011.

Population from 1901 to 2011

2. Subdivided Bar Diagram :
Component bar diagram charts are also called as sub-divided bar diagrams, which are very useful in comparing the sizes of different component parts.

The following data relates to the number of companies registered in a country.

Registered Companies

Question 3.
Calculate arithmetic mean for the data given below.

Solution:

\(\overline{\mathrm{X}}\) = A + \(\frac{\Sigma \mathrm{fd}}{\mathrm{N}}\)
Here, \(\overline{\mathrm{X}}\) = Mean
A = Assumed mean = 1200
∑fd = Sum of product of the step deviation (d¹) taken from the assumed mean multiplied with its respective frequencies -600
N = Total no. of frequencies = 100
Substitute these values in above formula
= 1200 + \(\frac{-600}{100}\)
= 1200 + (-6) = 1194
∴ \(\overline{\mathrm{X}}\) = 1194

Question 4.
Calculate median for the following data.

Solution:

Location of median class = \(\frac{N+1^{th}}{2}\) item
Here, N = total frequencies =116
\(\frac{116+1^{th}}{2}\) item = \(\frac{117}{2}\) = 58.5
The 58.5^th item is included in the cumulative frequencey of 75. The corresponding class of the median is 50.

Question 5.
Calculate mode for the following series.

Answer:

Analysis Table

∴ Z = 16

Question 6.
What is Arithmetic mean? What are its merits and drawbacks?
Answer:
Arithmetic Mean (\(\overline{\mathrm{X}}\)) :
Among all types of averages, the arithmetic mean or simple mean is most commonly and widely used measure of central tendency. It is normally expressed as “the sum total of the observations divided by the number of items observed”. It is defined as the quotient of the sum of all items or entries divided by the number of items.

1. Computation of Arithmetic Mean – Individual Series – Direct Method:

Where, \(\overline{\mathrm{X}}\) = Arithmetic mean, ∑X = Sum total of ‘X’, and
N = Number of items of ‘X’.

Merits and Drawbacks of Arithmetic Mean :
i) Merits of A.M.:

1. It can be easily calculated; and can be easily understood.
2. As every item is taken into calculation, it is affected by every item.
3. As the mathematical formula is rigid one, therefore, the result remains the same.
4. It is useful for further algebraic treatment.
5. It is mostly used for comparing the various issues.

ii) Drawbacks of A.M :

1. It cannot be located graphically.
2. A single item can bring a big change in the result. For example, if there are three terms 3, 6, 9; the A.M. value is 6. If we add a new term 82, the new AM. value is 3 + 6 + 9 + 82 / 4 = 25. This a big change as compared to the size of first three terms of X.
3. The A.M. gives greater importance to higher items of a series and lesser importance to smaller items.
4. It cannot be located by inspection as in the case of mode and median.
5. Sometimes it gives absurd results. For instance, if we have to find out.the number of children per family and if we get the average value as 4.3 children, obviously the result is absurd adn it can’t be in fractional value. A

Question 7.
What is median? What are it’s merits and drawbacks?
Answer:
Median (M):
Median is the middle element when the data set is arranged in order of the magnitude. Median is that positional value of the variable which divides the distribution into two equal parts. In the ungrouped data, the median is computed as follows :

1. The values of the variate are arranged either in ascending or in descending order.
2. The middle – most value is taken as the median.

If the number of values ‘n’ in the raw data is odd, then the Median will be the (\(\frac{n+1}{2}\))^th value arranged in order of magnitude. In this case, there will be one and only one value of Median. On the other hand, if n is even, and when the data arranged in order of magnitude, there will be two middle – most values, (\(\frac{n}{2}\))^th and (\(\frac{n}{2}\)+1)^th values. Median is the average of the \(\frac{n^{th}}{2}\) (\(\frac{n}{2}\)+1)^th values.

Merits and Drawbacks of Median :
i) Merits of Median:

1. It is rigidly defined.
2. Even if the value of extreme item is much different from other values, it is not much affected by these values.
3. It can be located graphically.
4. It can be easily calculated and is also easy to understand.

ii) Drawbacks of Median:

1. Even if the value of extreme items is too large, it does not affect too much, due to this reason, sometimes median does not remain the representative of the series.
2. Median cannot be used for further algebraic treatment.
3. In a continuous series it has to be interpolated.
4. If the number of series is even, we can only make its estimate; as the A.M. of two middle terms is taken as Median.

Question 8.
What is mode? What are its merits and demerits?
Answer:
Mode (Z) :
Mode is the most frequently observed value in the data or an observation with the highest frequency is called the mode of the data. Mode is defined as that value in series which occurs most frequently. Mode is a point of maximum concentration on a scale of values, i.e., it is the most typical or most fashionable value of series.

Merits and Drawbacks of Mode:
i) Merits or uses of Mode :

1. Mode is the term that occur most in the series hence, it is neither an isolated value like Median nor it is a value like mean that may not be there in the series.
2. It is not affected by extreme values hence, is a good representative of the series.
3. It can be found graphically also.
4. For open end intervals it is not necessary to know the length of open intervals.
5. It can also he used in case of quantitative phenomenon.
6. With only just a single glance on data we can find its value. It is simplest.
7. It is the most used average in day-to-day life, such as average marks of a class, average number of students in a section, average size of shoes, etc.

ii) Drawbacks of mode :

1. Mode cannot be determined if the series is. bimodal or multimodal.
2. Mode is based only on concentrated values; other values are not taken into account inspite of their big difference with the mode. In continuous series only the lengths of class intervals are considered.
3. Mode is most affected by fluctuations of sampling.
4. Mode is not so rigidly defined. Solving the problem by different methods we won’t get the same results as in case of mean.
5. It is not capable of further algebraic treatment. It is impossible to find the combined mode of some series as in case of Mean.
6. If the number of terms is too large, only then we can call it as the representative value.

Question 9.
What are the characteristics of a good average?
Answer:
Characteristics of goods average :

1. It should be based on all the observations.
2. It should be rigidly defined. It should be clearly defined. There should be no confusion about the meaning or description of an average.
3. It should be capable of future algebaic treatment.
4. It should not be unduly affected by extreme values. No item of the series should affect the average too much. If very large items unduly affect the average, then the average cannot represent the entire group.
5. It should be easy to calculate and simple to understand.
6. It should not be affected by variations of sampling.

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Discuss the importance of statistics for the study of economics. [Mar. ’16]
Answer:
Statistical analysis render valuable assistance in the understanding of the economic problems and the formulation of economic policy. Economic problems are capable of being expressed numerically. The nature of many economic problems like poverty, unemployment, rise in prices, volume of trade, output of manufacturing, mining, agriculture etc., cannot be analysed without the help of statistics.

Question 2.
What are the advantages of diagrams?
Answer:
Diagrams are used with great effectiveness in the presentation of all types of data.

The advantages of diagrams are as follows :

1. A properly constructed diagram appeals to eye and mind.
2. There is no need to have special mathematical knowledge.
3. Data presentation becomes easier.
4. It facilitates comparison.
5. It improves memory power.

Question 3.
What is a Pie diagram? [Mar.’17, ’16]
Answer:
Pie – Diagram :
This diagram enables us to show the partitioning of total into component parts. It is also called a pie chart.

Question 4.
Explain the uses of sub divided bar diagrams.
Answer:
In a sub-divided bar diagram, the bar is sub-divided into various parts in proportion to the values given in the data and the whole bar represents the total. Such diagram is also called “component bar diagram”. Such a diagram shows total as well as various components.

Question 5.
Compute median for the following data. [Mar. ’17, ’16]
5, 7, 7,8,9,10,12,15 and 21
Solution:

Here N = 9
Median = \(\frac{N+1}{2}\)
= \(\frac{9+1}{2}\) = \(\frac{10}{2}\)
5^th value is 9.
Hence, Median (Q₂) = 9

Question 6.
Explain the concept of Mode. [Mar. ’17]
Answer:
Mode is most frequently occuring value in data.

Question 7.
What are the uses of Arithmetic mean
Answer:
Uses of A.M.

1. It can be easily calculated; and can be easily understood.
2. As every item is taken into calculation, it is affected by every item.
3. As the mathematical formula is rigid one, therefore, the result remains the same.
4. It is useful for further algebraic treatment.
5. It is mostly used for comparing the various issues.

Question 8.
Explain the concept of Geometric mean.
Answer:
Geometric mean (G.M.) :
The Geometric mean is a special type of average where we multiply the numbers together and then take a square root (for two numbers), cube root (for three numbers), fourth root (for four numbers) etc., and for ‘n’ numbers n^th root (ty-). It is technically defined as ‘the n^th root (\(\sqrt[n]{}\))product of ‘n’ numbers’. For instance, the geometric mean of two numbers, say 2 and 8, is the square root of their product, i.e., \(\sqrt{2.8}\) = 4. As another example, the geometric mean of three numbers, say 2, 3 and 6 is the cubic root of their product, i.e., \(\sqrt[3]{2.3.6}\) or (2.3.6)^1/3 = 3.3.
Symbolically G.M. = \(\sqrt[n]{X_1,X_2,X_3……….X_n}\)

Where, G.M. = geometric mean; n = number of items and X = values of the variable.

Question 9.
What are the merits of Median?
Answer:
Merits of Median :

1. It is rigidly defined.
2. Even if the value of extreme item is much different from other values, it is not much affected by these values.
3. It can be located graphically.
4. It can be easily calculated and is also easy to understand.

Question 10.
What are the drawbacks of Median?
Answer:
Drawbacks of median :

1. Even if the value of extreme items is too large, it does not affect too much, due to this reason, sometimes median does not remain the representative of the series.
2. Median cannot be used for further algebraic treatment.
3. In a continuous series it has to be interpolated.
4. If the number of series is even, we can only make its estimate; as the A.M. of two middle terms is taken as Median.

Question 11.
Explain the merits of Mode.
Answer:
Merits:

1. Mode is the term that occur most in the series hence, it is neither an isolated value like Median nor it is a value like mean that may not be there in the series.
2. It is not affecteed by extreme values hence is a good representative of the series.
3. It can be found graphically also.
4. For open end intervals it is not necessary to know the length of open intervals.
5. It can also be used in case of quantitative phenomenon.
6. With only just a single glance on data we can find its value. It is simplest.
7. It is the most used average in day-to-day life, such as average marks of a class, average number of students in a section, average size of shoes, etc.

Question 12.
Explain the drawback of Mode?
Answer:
Drawbacks of mode :

1. Mode cannot be determined if the series is bimodal or multimodal.
2. Mode is based only on concentrated values; other values are not taken into account inspite of their big difference with the mode. In continuous series only the lengths of class intervals are considered.
3. Mode is most affected by fluctuation of sampling.
4. Mode is not so rigidly defined. Solving the problem by different methods we wont get the same results as in case of mean.
5. It is not capable of further algebraic treatment. It is impossible to find the combined mode of some series as in case of Mean.
6. If the number of terms is too large, only then we can call it as the representative value.

Question 13.
Find the mode from the following data.

Answer:
From the given data, it can be seen that Rs. 480 occurred many times in the series.
∴ Mode = 480

Question 14.
Explain the concept of Harmonic mean?
Answer:
Harmonic Mean (H.M.) :
The Harmonic mean of a series is the reciprocal or the arithmetic average of the reciprocal of the values of its various items. It can be calculated by using the following formula :

Question 15.
Compute Harmonic means for 4, 6 and 12.
Answer:
Harmonic mean for 4, 6, 12

∴ Reci procals (\(\frac{1}{x}\))

Question 16.
What is the Geometric mean of two numbers 4 and 16?
Answer:
Geometric mean of two numbers : 4, 16

N = 2
G.M. = \(\sqrt[n]{X_1.X_2.X_3}\) = (x₁, x₂ ………… x₄)ⁿ
= \(\sqrt{4 \times 16}\) = \(\sqrt{64}\) = 8

Textual Examples

Qustion 1.
The following data relates to students studying foreign languages in a college.
Table-10.3 : Students Studying French & German in a College

Answer:

Question 2
Draw the pie diagram for the following data.
Area of Crops Cultivated in a Year (in hectares)

Answer:
Total area = 16 + 24 + 10 + 8 + 5 = 63
Area changed into Degrees =

Question 3.
Following data relates to percentage of students going to school and out of school.
Table-10.4:Students Going to School and Out of School

Answer:

Question 4.
The following are the marks obtained by 6 students in a test. Calculate arithmetic mean.
Marks (X) : 70, 80, 40, 50, 65, 45
Answer:

\(\overline{\mathrm{X}}=\frac{\Sigma \mathrm{X}}{\mathrm{N}}=\frac{350}{6}\) = 58.3
∴ \(\overline{\mathrm{X}}\) = 58.3

Question 5.
Calculate arithmetic mean from the following data :

Answer:

Note : In the above example assumed mean is taken as 40,
Substituting the values the in the above formula,
= 40 + \(\frac{60}{60}\) = 40+1
∴ \(\overline{\mathrm{X}}\) = 41

Question 6.
Find the arithmetic mean for the following data:

Answer:

Where, \(\overline{\mathrm{X}}\) = Arithmatic mean
A = Assumed mean =155

Question 7.
Calculate median for the below given data relating to income of seven persons.
Incomes (X): 100 150 80 90 160 200 140
Answer:
After arranging the given data in ascending order:

Med = (\(\frac{N+1}{2}\))^th item
Where, Med = Median, N = Total no. of Items = 7
M = (\(\frac{7+1}{2}\))^th item = \(\frac{8}{2}\) = 4^th item
The corresponding ’X’ value of the 4^th item in the series is 140 and
∴ Med = 140

Question 8.
Calculate median for the following data.

Answer:

Med (\(\frac{7+1}{2}\))^th = item
Where, N = Total no. of frequencies = 116
Median = (\(\frac{116+1}{2}\))^th item (\(\frac{117}{2}\)) = 58.5^th item

58.5^th item is included in the cumulative frequency of 75. Therefore, the corresponding X’ value is 50.
∴ Median = 50

Question 9.
Calculate median for the following data.

Note : When the data is given in ‘inclusive form’ (as the above), we have to change it into ‘exclusive from’. For that, we have to ‘subtract’ 0.5 from the lower limit of the class and ‘add’ 0.5 to the upper limit.
Answer:

Med = (\(\frac{N+1}{2}\))^th item
Location of median class = (\(\frac{N}{2}\))^th item = \(\frac{700}{2}\) = 350^thitem
The 350^th item is included in the cumulative frequency of 502. The corresponding class is the median class, i.e., 39.5 – 49.5.

Med = L₁ \(\frac{\frac{N}{2}-C F}{f}\) × i
Where, Med = Median
L₁ = Lower limit of the median class = 39.5, \(\frac{N}{2}\) = Median value = 350
CF = Cumulative frequency of the class preceeding to the median class = 252
F = Frequency of the median class = 250

Question 10.
Locate modal value for the below given data.

Solution:

(2)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of two rows each.
(3)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of two rows each leaving first row.
(4)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of three rows each.
(5)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of three rows each leaving first row.
(6)* = figure arrived at by adding ‘f’ of three rows each leaving two row.

From the analysis table, it is found that 10 – 15 has modal class. So, the modal value lies in 10 – 15 class.

After grouping and analysis, the following formula is applied to determine modal value:
Z = L₁ + \(\frac{\Delta_1}{\Delta_1+\Delta_2}\) × i
Where, Z = Mode = ?
L₁ = Lower limit of the median class = 0
f₀ = Frequency for the class proceeding to the modal class = 195
f₁ = Frequency of the modal class = 241
f₂ = Frequency of the class after the modal class =117
i = Size of the class interval = 5
∆₁ = f₁ – f₀ = 241 – 195 = 46
∆₂ = f₁ – f₂ = 241 – 117 = 124
After substituting the values in the above formula, we get
= 10 + \(\frac{46}{46+124}\) × 5
= 10 + \(\frac{230}{170}\) = 10 + 1.35 = 11.35
∴ Z = 11.35

The post TS Inter 1st Year Economics Study Material Chapter 10 Basic Statistics for Economics appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 5th Lesson Development in Telangana

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Write about Telangana and its development.
Answer:
TELANGANA :
Telangana became the 29^th state of India on June 2, 2014. It was earlier part of the unified state of Andhra Pradesh. The state, which, at the time of formation, comprised 10 districts, is now divided into 31 districts for more efficient administration. Hyderabad, the largest city in the state, is the capital. Other important cities are Warangal, Khammam, Nizamabad and Karimnagar. Telangana is the 12^th largest state in the country in terms of area as well as population, according to the 2011 census. The population is more than 3.5 crores. The literacy rate in Telangana is 66.46% as against the national average of 74.04%.

The state has large tracts of land available as well as smaller parcels of land which are suitable for setting up factories and workshops for the production of auto components and spare parts as well as textiles. Telangana has large reserves of forest area. Apart from natural resources, Telangana also boasts of a significant amount of Software exports.

Sectoral Composition :

1. Agricultural Sector
2. Industrial Sector
3. Services Sector

I. Agriculture Sector :
Agriculture plays a pivotal role in the economy of a state and is vital for inclusive growth. The Telangana Department of Agriculture was created mainly to provide Agricultural Extension services to farmers and to transfer the latest technical knowledge to the farming community. The state is endowed with bountiful resources, has good soils, diversified cropping patterns and major irrigation systems fed by rivers like the Godavari and the Krishna. Farmers in Telangana mainly depend on rainfed water sources for irrigation. Rice is the major food crop. Other important local crops are cotton, sugar cane, mango and tobacco.

Recently, crops used for vegetable oil production, such as sunflower and peanuts, have gained favour. There are varieties of soils ranging from fertile alluvial to very poor sandy soils. The various soil types include chalkas, red sandy soils, dubbas, deep red loamy soils, and very deep black cotton soils that facilitate the planting of mangoes, oranges and flowers. Red soils are predominant, accounting for 48 percent of the total area. Black cotton soils, alluvial soil, rocks and boulders account for 25 percent, 20 percent and 7 percent of the area, respectively.

Agriculture Vision :
Despite the constraints, it is important to improve the agricultural situation in the state by duly harnessing the available agricultural potential and integrating it with technology and resources. To begin with, an attempt should be made to empower farmers in seed management and enable them to acquire good quality seeds at the right time and at affordable cost. Keeping in view the future requirements of agricultural production, a vision for Telangana has been framed as put forth hereunder :

Agriculture Development Vision

• Making farming a commercially viable endeavor.
• Providing easy access to inputs, finance, technology, and IT.
• Increasing irrigated area by utilizing the available surface and groundwater potential.
• Providing means for land development for efficient soil and water management.
• Providing trained extension staff for technology transfer at the door step of farmers.
• Identifying the yield gaps and bridging them through suitable technologies.
• Motivating the farmers to adopt Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) and balanced fertilization with necessary demonstration and training support.
• Providing short term weather forecasting for instant action.
• Promoting farm mechanization through access to farm machinery and equipment at affordable cost.
• Improving water use efficiency through drip and sprinkler irrigation.

Agriculture Schemes of Telangana

✓ Agricultural Technology Management Agency. (ATMA).
✓ Rainfed Area development (RAD) Component Under National Mission For Sustainable Agriculture. (NMSA).
✓ Rashtriya Krishi Vikash Yojana. (RKVY).
✓ Soil Health Management.
✓ Sub-Mission On Agricultural Mechanization. (SMAM).
✓ Soil Health Card.

II. Industrial Sector :
Telangana is home to large industries in pharma, engineering goods and defence. Several major manufacturing and services industries are in operation including textiles and apparels, mines and minerals, automobiles, auto components, spices, horticulture, and poultry farming.

The industrial sector in Telangana provides employment opportunities to 17.8% of the total workforce in the state. This sector registered a growth of 83.6% in 2017-18. Such remarkable growth has been possible largely due to the incentives being offered under the new government’s Industrial Policy

Framework, 2014. Several measures have been taken to speed up industrial growth. The government has allotted 1.5 lakh acres of land for the setting up of new industrial units. Rs.30,000 crore is being spent on the Telangana Water Grid to ensure drinking water supply to every house. 10% of the water under this grid will be allocated for industry. The state has become completely self-sufficient with regard to electricity. Six industrial corridors are envisioned along important national and state highways.

In the first phase the Hyderabad-Warangal, Hyderabad-Nagpur and Hyderabad-Bangalore industrial corridors are being developed. Life Sciences Information Technology and Aeronautics are among 14 core sectors identified under the new policy. Food processing, automobiles, textiles, plastic and polymers, FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods), engineering and capital goods are some of the others. The Kakatiya Mega Textile Park is coming up at Warangal, making it the textile hub of Telangana.

TS-iPASS :
The government has framed many proactive policies to encourage the growth of industry in the state, the most important of which is the TS-iPASS ACT which was framed shortly after the formation of the state in 2014. TS-iPASS or Telangana State Project Approval and Self-Certification System is the new fast-track industry policy of the government of Telangana. It is a single window clearance system for new investors in the state. It provides applicants the right to timely clearances.

This is the first time in the world that such cleamaces have been provided. A time limit of 15 days has been set for megaprojects. Applicants need not go to different departments for approval of projects as there is a common application form. There is Nodal Officer and provision of penalty if there are departmental clearance delays. There is zero tolerance for corruption. The essence of the policy is Minimum inspection and maximum facilitation’.

Telangana was ranked No. 1 in ‘Ease of Doing Business’ among all the states and union territories of India in 2016 and was ranked 2^nd for the year 2017.

III. Services Sector :
Telangana’s services sector covers a wide variety of activities such as trade, hotel and restaurants, transport, communication, financing, insurance, real estate and business services. The services sector delivers “intangible” goods in all social and economic sectors in the state economy excluding broad agriculture and industry sector categories. The sector recorded strong annual average growth rate of more than 9% in the last decade. Real Estate and Business services is the leading subsector with a share of 15.6%, followed by the Hotels and Restaurants services with a share of 13.1%. Banking and Insurance stands at 6.6%. Some of the sub-sectors make huge indirect contributions. For instance, ‘transport and communications’ add immensely to infrastructure.

Tourism is growing in importance and contributing to the state’s economy. Telangana State Tourism Development Corporation (TSTDC) is a state government agency which promotes tourism in Telangana. Telangana has a variety of tourist attractions including historical places, monuments, forts, waterfalls, forests and temples. The Charminar Golconda Fort and Chowmohalla Palace in Hyderabad, the forts of Warangal and Bhongir, the temples at Warangal, Basra, and Bhadrachalam, the Kuntala waterfalls near Adilabad, and the Papikonda National Park close to Khammam are some of the places of interest.

Question 2.
Write about Telangana Industries.
Answer:
The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Govt, of India has classified industries into four categories based on the levels of pollution generated. They are : red 1 and 2, orange, green and white. Red category industries cause the most pollution and include fertilizers, pharma, tanneries, and refineries. In order to facilitate environmental clearance, the Telangana government decreed that only Red 2 category of industries would go to the government of India for clearance. 90% of applications could be cleared by the state government. The Telangana government has identified more than 1000 polluting industries in and around Hyderabad and is in the process of getting them shifted far away. Hotels, however, have been exempted.

I.T. Industry in Telangana :
Over the last few decades, Telangana has also become the hub of Information Technology. In the 1990s an exclusive software park for the I.T sector, the first of its kind in the country, was established near Hyderabad and is called the HITEC City (Hyderabad Information Technology and Engineering Consultancy City). The township is called Cyberabad. Leading IT companies like Facebook, Google, IBM, and Microsoft hold significant presence in Hyderabad. Even after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, the I.T industry in Telangana has continued to flourish and today Telangana contributes 10% of the country’s exports in I.T.

Mining in Telangana :
Telangana is a state which is rich in minerals. It contains 20 percent of the country’s coal deposits and is rich in limestone deposits that cater to cement factories. It has other mineral resources like granite, bauxite, and mica. The extensive coal reserves around Yellandu are excavated by the Singareni Collieries Company Ltd for power generation and industrial purposes. There are limestone deposits in the area, which are used by cement factories. Telangana also has deposits of bauxite and mica. Kothagudem, Jammikunta, and Palwancha are prominent industrial towns in the state. NTPC in Ramagundam is the largest thermal power plant in South India.

Pharma Industry In Telangana :
Telangana has diversified its industrial base, with the thrust on high-tech sectors including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and nanotechnology. A pharma city, one of the biggest in the world, is coming up in Mucherla, R.R district. The Telangana government has envisaged establishing a Life Sciences Infrastructure Fund which will be the first of its kind in the country. The Rs 1.000 crore fund will be used to create sophisticated infrastructure for the pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical devices industries. Telangana already accounts for one-third of the pharma industry in the country.

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 6 Development in Telangana appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 5th Lesson Effects of Industrial Development

Esssay Questions

Question 1.
Write an essay on pollution in terms of Industrial Development. List out the reasons why pollution control measures are difficult to implement.
Answer:
The Dark side of Industrial Development :
The Industrial Revolution in the eighteenth century marked the beginning of the mass production of goods. As technology developed, factories multiplied exponentially. Prior to industrialization, there were only small factories or cottage industries, often run by small families. Factories were few in number and working hours were limited. By and the environment was clean.

In order to provide for the daily needs of the growing population, different types of industries have now been established. These industries use raw materials, process them and produce finished products. Besides the finished products, a good number of by products are produced. If the processing of waste is a cost prohibitive one, then the industrialist is often tempted to throw the waste matter into the environment instead of disposing it in a responsible manner. The waste may be in the form of gas, liquid or solid. The gases are usually released into the atmosphere, the liquids are discharged into aquatic bodies like canals, rivers or seas and solid wastes are either dumped on the land or in aquatic bodies.

In all the cases, the air, water or land is fouled due to the dumping of wastes. The fouling of the environment because of industrialization is referred to as ‘industrial pollution’. It is the undesirable outcome when factories or other industrial plants emit harmful by-products and waste into the environment. Emission of toxic chemicals into the atmosphere causes air pollution. Effluents released into water bodies cause water pollution. When soil is degraded by harmful substances, it is called soil pollution.

The Central Pollution Control Board, India has identified 17 industries which cause the most pollution. They include industries pertaining to fertilizers, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, apart from petroleum refineries and steel plants.

Air Pollution :
Due to industrial activities, a variety of poisonous gases and substances like carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and dusts are spewed into the atmosphere, causing acute pollution. The quality of the air is vitiated also by the large number of autgmobiles which emit toxic fumes and particulate matter. The .burning of crop stubble, common in states like Punjab and Haryana, is another major cause of air pollution, especially in winter. Delhi is covered with thick smog and a “toxic cloud” at such times. The presence of pollutants in the air disturbs the natural eco-system. It affects the well-being and health of all living organisms, including human beings, animals and plants.

Water Pollution :
Effluents released by industries into water bodies contain harmful pollutants like lead, mercury and petro-chemicals. These pollutants contaminate the water of lakes, ponds, rivers and seas. Aquatic plants and animals are adversely affected. The improper disposal of sewerage and the seepage of industrial effluents into the soil results in the contamination of groundwater. The water becomes unfit for human consumption as it contains harmful compounds and also disease causing pathogens.

Hussain Sagar Lake, once the pride of Hyderabad is now choked with agricultural waste, pharma residues, municipal sewage, and industrial effluents. The Ganga has now become the 6^th most polluted river in the world. Numerous tanneries, textile mills, and chemical plants discharge untreated waste into it everyday. Besides, about 3 billion litres of untreated sewage are dumped into the river daily. The National Mission to Clean Ganga aims to clean the Ganga and its tributaries in a comprehensive manner.

Soil / Land Pollution :
Soil Pollution is defined as the presence of toxic chemicals in soil, in high enough concentrations to pose a risk to human health and/ or the ecosystem. Pesticides and chemical fertilizers used by farmers contain harmful compounds that contaminate the soil and are harmful when ingested by human beings or animals. Effluents and sludge discharged by industries pollute not only water bodies but land too.

Why Pollution Control Measures are Difficult to Implement :
In developing and under developed countries Pollution Control measures are difficult to implement because of the following reasons :

Lack of Policies to Control Pollution :
Lack of effective policies and poor enforcement of laws framed by the Pollution Control Board has resulted in unchecked pollution.

Use of Outdated Technologies :
Many industries still rely on old technologies so that they can avoid the high cost of incorporating new technology. These industries continue to generate large amounts of toxic waste.

Unplanned Industrial Growth :
Many industries have expanded in a haphazard and unplanned manner Owners of these industries may flout rules and norms pertaining to pollution control as it may not be economically feasible or profitable to do so.

Presence of Large Number of Small Scale Industries :
Many small-scale industries and factories that do not have enough capital rely on government grants to run their day-to-day businesses. They may not fall under the ambit of stringent environment regulations.

Inefficient Waste Disposal :
Water pollution and soil pollution are often the consequence of inefficient disposal of waste.

Question 2.
List out the impact of Industrial Development and other human activities on the environment and the need for sustainable development.
Answer:
Since 1950 urban populations have increased seven-fold, energy use has soared five times, while the amount of fertiliser used is now eight times higher. Human activities are responsible for causing environmental degradation. The deterioration of the environment is manifested in many ways such as the depletion of resources like air, water and soil: the destruction of ecosystems; habitat destruction; the extinction of wildlife; and pollution.

The table below highlights the impact of development on the environment.

Adverse Impact of Development on The Environment

Developments/Human Activities in the Modem Age	Impact on the Environment
Urbanization and Population Explosion	• Deforestation/ Loss of billions of forest trees. • Forest areas are converted to farm lands/ residential townships. • Depletion of available natural resources. • Decrease in rainfall. • Increase in global temperature/ global warming affecting humans and also animals like the polar bear. • Changes in climatic conditions. • Increase in natural calamities like floods, earthquakes and droughts. • Loss of wild life – tigers, elephants, snakes etc. • Extinction of several plant species.
Developments/Human Activities in the Modem Age	Impact on the Environment
Industrialization and Mining	• Loss of raw materials like wood, ores and minerals. • Discharge of effluents/by products into the air. water and soil, thereby causing severe pollution. Water pollution – causes diseases like cholera and cancer, affects marine life. Air pollution – causes respiratory diseases, including cancer, vitiates the quality of air. • Fertility of soil is affected. • Loss of massive tracts of land, affecting crop production.
Commercial fishing	• Disturbance to the ecosystem, ecological imbalance, disruption of the food chain. • Threat of extinction of aquatic animals such as tunas and sharks. • Destruction of coral reefs.
Commercial Agriculture and Livestock Farming	• Deforestation due to plantation crops, burn and slash agriculture, grazing of livestock. • Chemical pesticides and fertilizers used in commercial agriculture are toxic. • Livestock (farm animals like cows and sheep) accounts for 40% of global emissions of gases like methane which contribute to global warming.
Tourism	• Loss of forest land. • Pollution of the natural resources due to construction of hotels, tourist influx, usage of plastic. • Disturbance to the ecosystem. • Threat to wild life.
Developments/Human Activities in the Modem Age	Impact on the Environment
Production & disposal of waste	• Waste material, such as sewage, either in solid or liquid or gaseous form, is toxic and poses a health hazard. • Improper disposal and dumping of garbage in cities leads to unhygienic conditions and spread of diseases. In Hyderabad alone, about 4500 tons of garbage is collected every day, of which only 30% is recycled.
Killing of Wild Life for trade	• Unchecked poaching has led to several species of animals becoming extinct. For eg. elephants are killed for their ivory tusks, rhinos for their horns, antelopes for fur, sharks and gorillas for meat, tigers for their skin and for other organs which are believed to have medicinal properties.
Transportation	• Particulate matter (PM) emitted by vehicles causes smog, respiratory diseases, cancer. • Noise pollution caused by vehicles and jets affects the nervous system; hearing is impaired.

The Cost of Development :
Developed countries are generally highly industrialized and are technologically far more advanced than developing or under developed countries. The per capita income of the citizens in developed countries is very high and the people living there enjoy high standards of living. Thus, a country is deemed to be ‘advanced’ if it is dotted with skyscrapers, industries and express highways, and its citizens drive fancy SUVs and use all the latest technological gadgets.

But at what cost does such development take place? In his quest for Development, man is ruthlessly destroying the environment. It is estimated that for paper alone, about 4 billion trees are cut worldwide every year. Every”day, more than 2 million tons of sewage and industrial and agricultural waste are discharged into the world’s water, the equivalent of the weight of the entire human population. Deforestation, industrialization and population explosion have wreaked havoc on Nature. Glaciers are melting and groundwater aquifers are running dry. Weather patterns are changing worldwide and thousands of species of animals and plants are becoming extinct.

Man cannot escape the consequences of his actions. Global warming has not only made many places inhospitable for a living but has also affected crop production and led to an increase in natural calamities. Hoods, droughts, and earthquakes have become common throughout the world. Natural resources like water are rapidly becoming scarce. Recently Cape Town, the 2^nd most populous city in South Africa, faced a major water crisis and narrowly escaped Day Zero, the day it was expected to completely run out of water. Cities like Bangalore, Moscow, and London are predicted to meet a similar fate.

The Need for Sustainable Development:
If Man wishes to survive on this planet, it is clear that he must live in harmony with the environment and stop the indiscriminate destruction of natural resources. He must strike a balance between his desire to improve the quality of his life and the preservation of the environment. Over-exploitation of the environment for economic profits will inevitably lead to a tipping point where natural resources can no longer be replenished at the place where they are being depleted.

The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) defines the concept of Sustainable Development. Sustainable Development is a development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to fulfill their own needs. Sustainable development rests on three pillars – Environment, Economy, and Social Equity. If one of the pillars is weak, the system will collapse. Economic Sustainability ensures that the greed to make profits is curbed and that the environment is not damaged. Social Equity envisages the just and equitable sharing of resources among the rich and the poor, whether on an individual or global level. These pillars are also referred to as the 3 Ps- People, Profit, and Planet.

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 5 Effects of Industrial Development appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 4th Lesson Factors Affecting Development

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Define “Environment and Development”. Describe factors affecting development.
Answer:
‘Environment’ is a broad term and conveys different .meanings in different disciplines. In Natural Sciences, Environment is defined as a system which provides natural surroundings for the existence of organisms (including humans) and which is a prerequisite for their evolution. Abiotic components (e.g. : air, water, sunlight, minerals) and biotic components (e.g. : humans, animals, birds, insects) are the main elements of the environment. They are interlinked individually and collectively in myriad ways.

What is Development?
Development is the process of improving the quality of all human lives in three equally important aspects. These are

• Raising the standards of living i.e. income and consumption, levels of food, medical services and education through relevant growth processes.
• Creating conditions conducive to the growth of selfesteem through the establishment of social, political and economic systems and institutions which promote human dignify and respect.
• Increasing the freedom to choose by enlarging the range of choice variables, e.g. : varieties of goods and services.

Thus, development is not purely an economic phenomenon but rather a multidimensional process involving reorganization and reorientation of the entire economic and social system.

Factors Affecting Development :
1. Physical Factors :
The physical environment and natural geographic features of a region have a direct impact on the kind of development that takes place there. For instance, the type of soil and the fertility of the soil at a place, proximity to rivers, as well as the climate and weather patterns determine whether agriculture is feasible there and, if so, what kind of crops can be grown. Factories are setup in areas which have an abundance of natural resources like wood and water or where there are rich deposits of minerals and ores. Hilly areas which enjoy a salubrious climate are developed as places of tourist interest. Kodaicanal, Ooty and Nainital are popular summer resorts bemuse of their picturesque surroundings and cool climate.

2. Economic Factors :
The economic health of a region and the development that takes place there are inter dependent. If the economy thrives, there is a greater scope for developmental activities. More industries can be set up, infrastructure like roads, schools, hospitals and railway stations can be improved and better facilities are provided to the residents. These developmental activities, in turn, stoke the economy and attract more investment.

In order to attract foreign investments, the Government of India has facilitated the setting up of several Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in various states. Business units that setup establishments in a SEZ are entitled to several incentives and a simplified operating environment. Besides, no license is required for imports.

The figure below shows the Poverty Trap, which is often thought of as a cycle. Low investment in key areas such as infrastructure (roads, rail, telecommunications etc.), education and healthcare can have dire consequences for a population. Populations in countries hovering at low levels of development can become more vulnerable to ill health, as seen with regard to HIV and AIDs in sub-Saharan Africa. This, in turn, reduces the productivity of the workforce. In addition, lack of education leads to a lower quality work force, while poor road networks discourage investors.

3. Social Factors :
There are many social factors that affect the level of development of a place. It is easier to execute developmental projects in a society that extols hard work and gives recognition to merit. Conversely, lack of social motivation for betterment, unproductive social activities such as war and having to provide for very large families are factors which hinder development. Negative socio-cultural practices such as gambling and drinking, and lack of skills due to poor training and education are other factors which impede development.

India is making rapid strides in many fields but it is still bogged down by various social evils such as the prevalence of the caste system, child labour, illiteracy, gender inequality, superstitions, and religious conflicts. These social ills are stumbling blocks in the path of national development.

The causes and effects of these social ills are given below, along with solutions for their eradication. It is only when these social ills are eradicated that the country can truly develop in all spheres of life.

Question 2.
Write about Social Evils.
Answer:

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 4 Factors Affecting Development appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 3rd Lesson Population Explosion and its Consequences

Easy Questions

Question 1.
What is population? Write briefly about population explosion and causes of population explosion.
Answer:
Introduction :
Population is a group of individuals of a particular species, sharing a common gene pool and occupying a particular area at a specific time.

Population Explosion refers to the sudden and rapid rise in the size of population, especially human population. A drastic growth in population beyond normal limits is called population explosion. Population explosion is a global phenomenon but is more prominent in under developed and developing countries. The population of the world currently (May 2018) is about 7.6 billion. While China is the most populous country with over 1.38 billion inhabitants, it is predicted that India will overtake China by 2025. India and China together account for about 37% of the world’s population, Given below is a list of the world’s most populous countries along with projected figures for 2030.

The causes of population explosion are as follows :
a) Accelerating Birth rate / High Fertility rate :
The Fertility rate of a country refers to the number of children a woman gives birth to during her child bearing age. High fertility rates lead to a rapid increase in the population of a country. High fertility rates are prevalent in countries which are underdeveloped and where literacy rates, especially among women, are low. It is not a coincidence that 9 out of the 10 top countries with the highest fertility rates are in Africa, a continent in which the inhabitants of several regions routinely face abject poverty, starvation, famine, drought and disease, besides internal strife. Nigeria, a country in Africa, has the world’s highest fertility rate. On an average, women in Niger give birth to 7 children each. In India, the fertility rate is 2.2. Bihar, one of the most backward states, has the highest fertility rate of 3.34. Telangana has a fertility rate of 1.78.

b) Decrease in Infant Mortality Rate :
Infant Mortality Rate refers to the number of deaths of infants under 1 year old per 1000 live births. An improvement in medical science and technology, better maternal care facilities and wide usage of preventive drugs (vaccines) has reduced infant mortality rates in many countries, including India. 1MR is an index of the health of a country. Monaco, Japan, Iceland and Singapore are countries with an IMR of less than 2.5. The IMR in India (as>in 2016) is 34.

c) Increase in life expectancy :
Due to improved living conditions, better hygiene and sanitation habits, better nutrition, health and education, the average life expectancy of human population has improved significantly. Steady supply of good quality food, makes sure that the population is well nourished. Population grows when they are adequately nourished. Japan, Switzerland and Singapore have the highest life expectancies in the world, with an average life expectancy of about 83 years. The life expect^npy in India is about 68 years (as in 2015).

d) Increased immigration :
An increase in immigration Often contributes towards population explosion, particularly in developed countries. It happens when a large number arrive at an already populated place with the intention to reside permanently.

e) Less space than required :
In urban cities, it is often found that there is very less scope for making available extra space to absorb the additional population. In such cases, a large population is seen packed into a smaller space.

The details of the Indian population density and age distribution are given in the map :

Question 2.
Explain the consequences of population explosion.
Answer:
Consequences of Population Explosion :
i) Over Exploitation of Natural Resources :
Due to high growth in population, the requirements of the people have increased at a tremendous rate. Consequently, the available natural resources are getting depleted. The Earth has limited natural resources like water, land, flora and fauna, minerals and fossil fuels. Over-exploitation has created a severe depletion of resources. Humans today extract and use around 50% more natural resources than they did just 30 years ago. It is estimated that within 40 years, the reserves of petroleum will vanish completely. Water scarcity is rampant and it is common for states to be engaged in bitter disputes about their rightful share of water.

ii) Industrialization and Urbanization :
Urbanization is the result of growth of population in urban areas. As a country develops from primarily an agricultural to an industrial economy, large – scale emigration of rural residents to towns and cities takes place. During the process, the growth rate of urban areas is typically double the pace of overall population increase. Urbanization is taking place at a fast rate in India. The population residing in urban areas in India, according to the 1901 census, was 11.4%. This count increased to 28.53% according to the 2001 census, and in 2018 it stands at 33.2%.

Urbanization eventually leads to a severe decline in the number of people living in the countryside, with negative population growth rates in rural areas. Urban areas face acute shortage of land and water and other environmental problems. Vast areas are converted into slums.

iii) Shrinking Agricultural Land :
Agricultural lands are being converted into residential settlements and industrial zones. The per capita availability of land for cultivation declined by nearly 50% from 1.1 acres in 1911 to 0.6 acres in 1971 in India. Since then it has shrunk much further. The small size of holding hinders adoption of modem technology in farming.

iv) Global Wanning :
Population explosion is linked with global warming. The increase in population leads to greater consumption of resources. The amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that is produced increases. This causes a rise in global temperatures. The global average surface temperature has increased during the 20^th century by about 0.6°C. If it rises further, the consequences will be disastrous.

v) Environmental Pollution :
The tremendous growth in population has led to the degradation of the environment. Air, water and soil have got contaminated with various pollutants.

vi) Poverty, Malnutrition and Famine :
Millions of people live in hunger and suffer from malnourishment because they cannot afford to buy enough food, cannot afford nutritions food or cannot afford the arming supplies they need to grow enough good food of their own.

Poverty and malnutrition are a common phenomenon in underdeveloped countries. Africa, which has the highest population growth rate, is also the world’s poorest continent. Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa suffer from frequent droughts and famines and have high rates of starvation deaths.

vii) Population reduces the Rate of Capital Formation :
In underdeveloped countries, due to high birth rates and low life expectancy, the number of dependents in families is high. Nearly 40 to 50 per cent of the population is in the non-productive age group, which simply consumes and does not produce anything. The per capita income is low because the dependents have to be fed and taken care of. Job opportunities too are less in poor countries. Thus, there is very little scope for savings or capital formation.

viii) Population growth weakens Social Infrastructure :
In welfare states like India, the government pledges to meet the social needs of the people by providing basic facilities like free or subsidised education, housing and medical aid. But the vast increase in population casts a heavy burden on the government and details many plans.

Question 3.
Explain population control measures or initiatives in India.
Answer:
Population Control Measures / Initiatives in India :
There are no easy solutions to the problem of population explosion. Population growth is inextricably linked with factors like poverty and illiteracy. It is only when people are educated and enjoy reasonably good standards of living that the population of a country will stabilize. It is not a coincidence that countries like Norway, Switzerland, Singapore and the U.S.A which have a high Human Development Index have a low growth rate of population. In India, economically backward states like Bihar, U.P and Rajasthan have the highest birth rates. A multipronged effort is needed, therefore, to tackle the problem of population explosion.

In countries like India, societal norms and prejudices influence the size of families. The preference for a male child, prevalence of child marriages and the low status accorded to women in many communities are some factors which contribute to high birth rates.

India was the first country in the world to launch a nation wide Family Planning programme in 1952. Government agencies and institutions were mobilized to spread the message of the importance of having small families. The media was extensively used for propaganda. People were reminded of the advantages of small families. It was pointed out that children in such families would be healthy and happy as parents could devote more time and resources to them. Cheap contraceptives were distributed in even the most remote villages, sex education was popularized, sterilizations were conducted and aborption was legalized. Couples were persuaded to go in for sterilization after the birth of two children.

Every country must devise its own ways to tackle the menace of over population. In 1979, China started the ‘one child per family’ policy. Draconian measures were used to implement the law. Those who defied the law and had a second child were subjected to brutal punishment. The child too bore the brunt as the government denied him/her education and health care. The infamous population control measure was successful in bringing down the birthrate but at the cost of gross human rights violations. Such coercive tactics to enforce birth control are abhorrent and are ill-suited for a democratic country like India.

Measures to Control Population :

1. The government should regularly conduct programmes to educate the public about the ills of over population.
2. Social organizations and NGOs should actively inform people about the available methods of family planning.
3. People should be persuaded, but not coerced, to undergo sterilization after having two children.
4. Female literacy should be encouraged so that women can take informed decisions about the size of their families.
5. The ban on child marriages should be enforced strictly.
6. Maternal and childcare facilities should be improved.

Are there any advantages of High Population Growth?
An increase in the rate of population growth is not devoid of advantages. The teeming population of youth in developing countries like India can play a vital role in building the economy. Their strength and talents can be harnessed in various ways. In contrast, advanced countries like Japan and many European countries face peculiar problems associated with a sharp decline in population. Japan has become a society of aging people because of a rapid fall in fertility rates and an increase in longevity. Nearly a quarter of the population is above 65 years. Because of a shrinking labour force, dependence on robots is increasing, both at home and in factories. There is no one to take care of the elderly population.

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 3 Population Explosion and its Consequences appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 2nd Lesson Environmental Stakeholders

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Write about Environmental stakeholders.
Answer:
Stakeholders are defined as the people and organizations who are likely to be affected, either directly or indirectly, by an action or policy of the government or by the action of an industry or organization. Stakeholders have a vested interest in something and are likely to gain or loss on account of any changes initiated by others or by their own intervention.

In the environmental context all citizens are stakeholders as they are directly or indirectly affected by developmental activities which alter the water, air and soil around them. When industries are setup in a town, the economy picks up, jobs are created and infrastructure improves. Many residents reap the benefits. These people derive some advantages and are affected favourably by the environmental decision. At the same time, however, the residents may suffer from ill effects of industrialization. The factories may discharge pollutants into the air and water, thereby harming the health of the people. The pollutants released may cause water bodies to become a breeding place for vectors like mosquitoes which spread diseases. The water bodies may also emit a foul odour due to the release of gases like hydrogen sulphide and ammonia. The residents, therefore, may also suffer adversely as a consequence of the environmental decision.

Similarly, when a dam is constructed, hydro – electricity is generated, providing clean energy to thousands of homes. Vast areas get irrigated, bringing cheer to farmers. But the same dam may submerge scores of villages, forcing the displacement of thousands of villagers. Thus, while some are benefitted by the project, others are adversely affected.

The stakeholders in projects affecting the environment include government representatives, businesses, scientists, land owners, and local communities who are traditionally dependent on the nearby natural resources. The objectives of each of the groups vary and it is difficult to evolve a common agenda and uniformity while implementation of developmental projects. The United Nations Environment Programme identifies nine specific major stakeholder groups for sustainable development: Farmers, women, scientific and technological community, children and youth, indigenous peoples and their communities, workers and trade unions, business and industry, non-govern-mental organizations, and local authorities (UNEP 2015).

Question 2.
Describe the categories of stakeholders.
Answer:
Environment stakeholders can be broadly categorised into the following categories based on the cause-effect relationship and the management systems :

I. Affected parties :
The proposed projects, such as the setting up of an industry or a multipurpose project like a dam, may induce changes in the surrounding environment thereby affecting the health and socio-economic conditions of the residents in those areas. There may also be a cultural invasion (especially, impacting tribes who have a distinct culture of their own). The parties may be affected directly or indirectly.

a) Directly Affected Parties :
It involves a direct cause and effect due to the proposed changes in the surrounding. The effect may be a positive or negative one, leading to gain or loss on account of the proposed change.

i) Positive Affect :
This may be due to appreciation of the property or sub constracting and employment opportunities as a result of the proposed changes. The people who stand to gain are called Risk Gainers.

ii) Negative Affect :
The proposed project may lead to damage of the property, displacement leading to migration. The people who stand to lose are called Risk Losers.

b) Indirectly Affected Parties :
It involves an indirect effect due to the modifications induced into the surrounding environment. For instance, even people who reside in distant places may be indirectly affected by the discharge of pollutants and depletion of natural resources.

II. Project Proponents / Risk Perpetrators :
The proponents of a project or Risk Perpetrators are one of the major stakeholders. The proponent may be the government or an entrepreneur (firm / organization / private / public limited company / Individual) who is in the process of setting up an industry.

III. Regulatory Authorities or Committees / Risk Managers :
These are the statutory authorities who are connected with regulating and monitoring the implementation of the guidelines / rules. These authorities include regulatory bodies from central, state, and local govemments. The committees constituted by the government and the non – governmental organizations (NGO) and other civic bodies also play a vital role in representing the advocacy of the community to highlight issues and their redressal.

Of course, these categories are not mutually exclusive For example, a risk gainer might also be a risk loser. An affected person may benefit in some ways and lose in other ways. (e.g. : a person gets employment in a factory but is exposed to dust and smoke); a risk perpetrator is likely to be a gainer as well and may also be expected to be a risk manager, (an industrialist is interested in economic profits but also convinces the local community about the benefits of the project and tries to allay their apprehensions).

The involving of multiple stakeholders brings together individuals with different perspectives, interests and positions. The success of any project depends on the mutual co-operation among different stakeholders with clear information flow while imparting mutual trust and fulfilling the assurances. Sometimes this may have the potential to slow the implementation of a project and create conflict. Though, potential overlaps and ambiguities exist, the co-operation and interaction between different stakeholders will bring radically different perspectives and may lead to a better decision making process.

Question 3.
Explain “3 Rs” Approach.
Answer:
It is key for the success of any project / policy to identify and engage all the stakeholders right from the beginning of the project. The most basic stakeholder analysis involves identification of people, groups, and institutions that have some interest in a project or affected by it. The government or project proponents will undertake a stakeholder analysis prior to the planning and development of an environmental project. The objective of stakeholder analysis is to identify and assess the relevant view points of key people, groups or institutions on the proposed activity.

“3 Rs” Approach :
Rights, Risks, Responsibilities before assembling stakeholders, the project planners or meeting facilitators should consider acknowledging each stakeholder’s individual rights, risks, and responsibilities. The ”3 Rs” approach has been championed by the United Nations. In this approach, project planners acknowledge and characterize stakeholder :

• Rights (e.g. : rights to extractable resources, rights of land tenure, human rights).
• Risks associated with a project (e.g. : loss of reputation, economic loss, loss of cultural integrity).
• Responsibilities in planning and executing the project (may be included in a formal agreement or contract).

Facilitating inclusive stakeholder engagement
Following a pre-planning stakeholder analysis, a project proposal is typically announced and stakeholders are invited to participate in the process.

Bringing stakeholders face to face is an important step of the engagement process. Discussion among stakeholders has been shown to help foster collaboration and the willingness to participate. Capacity development is another approach, which involves building the capacity of stakeholders to understand and solve the issue at hand and has been associated with successfully project outcomes. It can include training work-, shops, courses, or professional development for key stakeholder groups to provide them with the necessary knowledge, skills, and tools for more productive engagement.

Question 4.
Explain the benefits of stakeholder consultation process.
Answer:
Project Proponents :

• The project proponent will benefit with the inputs obtained, during consultation process leading to better planning by incorporating the feedback.
• The perspectives of local stakeholders can allow for solutions better suited for the social and cultural context of a region.
• It takes into account a diversity of values and facilitating empowerment, trust and equity by including local communities in the decision making process and consensus can be arrived before a new rule, plan or decision takes effect.
• This can lead to a more harmonious process and avoidance of unnecessary conflict ensuring smooth execution of the projects.

Affected Parties :

• It reduces the marginalization of under-represented groups and provides an opportunity to the most impacted for expressing their concerns.
• The stakeholder will feel the ownership and as a part of the system and can lead to increased support for smooth implementation of the project.
• Another potential benefit of engagement from this perspective is social learning, where stakeholders can learn from each other and develop new relationships along the way.

Corporate Social Responsibility in India :
CSR is a concept, wherein an enterprise is accountable for its impact on all relevant stakeholders and includes the social and environmental considerations into a company’s operations. India is the first country in the world to make Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mandatory, following an amendment to the Company Act, 2013 in April 2014. It mandates the Businesses to invest 2% of its profits in areas such as education, poverty, gender equality and hunger.

Question 5.
Describe some case studies on the issue of stakeholder participation.
Answer:
1) The Singur-Tata Motors controversy is an apt illustration of the turmoil that ensures when the interests of stakeholders are not adequately taken into consideration. In 2006, the Tata group was granted permission by the government of West Bengal to setup their Tata Nano factory on 1000 acres of fertile, agricultural land in Singur. However, the project faced stiff resistance from displaced farmers who felt that they were losing their only source of livelihood and were not being given sufficient compensation in terms of money or jobs at the proposed factory.

The displaced farmers received massive support from the opposition party led by Mamata Banerjee as well as from environmentalists like Medha Patkar and Arundhati Roy. The project was called off in 2008 and was shifted to Gujarat where farmers received four times the market price for the land they gave up.

2) The Sterlite Copper Agitation in Thoothukudi, Tamilnadu, is another instance of the violent clashes that erupt when commercial interests of industrialists override environmental concerns and safety. Sterlite Copper started operations in Thoothukudi in 1997 after being driven out of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra due to environmental concerns. It was dogged by controversy and court cases right from the beginning. Residents complained of noxious gas leaks and poor effluent management for over two decades.

They suffered from chronic respiratory diseases and eye irritation. Environmentalists pointed out that the plant was too close to the ecologically sensitive region of the Gulf of Munnar, it had not created a sufficient green belt around the factory; that public hearings were not held before giving the plant a go-ahead; and pollutants like cadmium, copper, aluminium, lead and arsenic were seeping into the groundwater.

Things took a turn in March 2018 when Sterlite sought approval to build a second copper smelter. There were large scale protests by villagers, politicians and environmentalists. Film actor turned politician, Kamal Hassan, too joined the fray. Several people, including policemen, lost their lives in the agitation. The plant was finally shut down indefinitely in May 2018.

3) Land acquisition for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train :
India’s ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project costing $ 17 billion, expected to be constructed by August 2022, faced delays due to problems in land acquisition. It faced stiff resistance from farmers and tribal villages, especially in the Palghar district of Maharashtra. The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) then took the initiative of involving women of 73 villages in Palghar district in the project. These women were entrusted with the task of facilitating communication between the village heads and NHSRCL engineers. Ateam of 15 women from various blocks was setup to explain the compensation packages being offered and the exact land requirement.

This method of stakeholder participation paid rich divi-dends. There is a participation change in the villagets. Till a few months ago, the survey teams could not even enter some of these areas! In Dahanu, for instance, where the project team even faced violence, officials have now been able to establish contact with all the 16 villages where land is required and were able to clear misgivings and lack of understanding about the project.

4) ‘Restore or Demolish’ : The Fading Glory of the Taj Mahal :
The Taj Trapezium case :
It is not merely displaced villagers, or farmers and fishermen who lose their source of livelihood, who are affected parties or risk losers. A concerned citizen too is a risk loser in the environmental context if he perceives a threat to his aesthetic enjoyment of a beautiful monument or a scenic place because of “developmental” activities. As a socially responsible citizen, he may be concerned about environmental issues that affect the general population.

In what is popularly referred to as the Taj Trapezium case’, Mr. M.C. Mehta, a casual visitor to the famed monument, was appalled by the damage caused to the structure by surrounding polluting industries. Being a Supreme Court lawyer, he filed a Public Interest Litigation in 1984. The case had far reaching consequences which are being felt to this day.

Located on the banks of the Yamuna in Agra, the Taj Mahal is considered one of the wonders of the modern world. The 17^th century mausoleum, made entirely of ivory-white marble, was built, by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. Thousands of visitors come daily from all parts of the globe to admire the beauty of this monument.

Over the last few decades, however, the Taj Mahal has been getting discoloured and pitted and is losing its pristine beauty. The cause of the yellow discolouration is by the high levels of air pollution in the surrounding areas. The un-checked growth of iron foundries, chemical industries and brick factories, as well as heavy vehicular traffic, have all contributed to the problem. The Mathura oil refinery and the glass factories at Ferozabad too are a major source of pollution. Most of these industries lie within a 10,400 sq km trapezium shaped area around the Taj.

Mr.Mehta’s PIL led to the formation of committees to study the problem in depth. Finally in 1996 the Supreme Court suggested that 292 polluting industries located within the Taj trapezium area be relocated in a phased manner, unless they stopped using coal and started using natural gas, instead. The Court applied the principle of Sustainable Development in this case, observing that there should be a balance between economic development and environmental protection.

The court reaffirmed the “Polluter Pays Principle”, whereby the polluter would be liable to compensate the individual sufferers as well as bear the costs of reversing the damage to the environment.

Unfortunately, however, the implementation of the measures has been tardy. Today Agra is the 5^th most polluted city in India and the 27^th most polluted city in the world. In anguish and exasperation the Supreme Court reprimanded the U.P. Government in July 2018 and served an ultimatum – restore the Taj Mahal or demolish it. Spurred to action, the government promised to prepare a 100 year vision document for the conservation of the Taj, including closing down of polluting industries and promoting green transport.

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 2 Environmental Stakeholders appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 1st Lesson Dimensions of the Environment

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Explain the term “Environment”.
Answer:
Environment refers to the sum total of conditions which surround a living being’s habitation. It includes both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) aspects. The word ‘environment’ has been derived from the French word ‘environir’ which means ‘to surround.’ Environmental Studies is a multidisciplinary subject which systematically studies human interaction with the environment and seeks to find answers to problems such as how the growing population on earth can be sustained with the finite resources of Nature.

Man has had a close relationship with his environment since time immemorial. Primitive man lived in the lap of Nature and derived nourishment and sustenance from the bountiful resources of Nature in the form of the air he breathed, the water he drank, the food he ate and the trees and caves in which he sought shelter. Man’s needs were few and Nature seemed a perennial source and supplier of pristine resources.

However, rapid technological advancements and unchecked urbanization in the last few centuries have altered the relationship between Man and Nature in unimaginable ways. The everincreasing growth in population led to the depletion and degradation of the environment. Over – exploitation of natural resources in the last century has led to an unprecedented crisis and has raised concerns not only about the resource availability for future generations but the very existence of the human race.

Question 2.
Write the relationship between Man and Environment. What are the impacts of Man on Environment?
Answer:
Man – Environment relationship :
The relationship between Man and his Environment can be categorised into four broad stages if we examine the history of the socio-cultural evolution of man. The four stages are :

1. Hunting and Food gathering.
2. Animal domestication and Pastoralism.
3. Agriculture.
4. Industrialization.

i) Hunting and Food gathering :
The life of primitive man was nomadic and unstructured. Man was dependent on his surroundings for food and other needs.

• Primitive man :
a) Man was part of the natural environment.
b) He lived in harmony with the environment and completely depended on the natural resources and food available in his habitation.
c) Later he began to hunt animals for food.

• Discovery of fire, invention of tools :
a) The necessity of tools for hunting and the invention of fire radically changed the life of primitive man and paved the way for the exploitation of natural resources.

ii) Animal domestication and Pastoralism :
The next stage of evolution was the domestication of animals for meat and milk. This led to greater control on the environment and reduced dependence on natural resources alone.

iii) Agriculture :
During this stage man started cultivating crops. There was no further need to lead a nomadic life. He now had a permanent habitation and this, in turn, paved the way for community living and a gradual increase in human population. In subsequent years he started clearing the forests, not only for the purpose of gathering firewood, but for agricultural use as well as for the construction of dwellings.

iv) Industrialization :
The subsequent development of Science and Technology led to the Industrial revolution which began during the late eighteenth century in Great Britain. Goods started being produced on a mass scale in factories. This led, inevitably, in indiscriminate exploitation of natural resources and the fouling of the environment.

Impact of Man on Environment :
Various activities of man have left a profound impact on the environment. Some of the effects are direct while others are indirect.
Activities of Man that affect the Environment :

a) Land use changes :
• Clearing of forests, burning of land, felling of trees, changes in cropping patterns.

b) Agricultural practices ;
• Mechanization of agriculture, use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

c) Construction and Excavation :
• Construction of dams, roads and bridges; Mineral extraction by way of excavation; Urbanization.

d) Exploitation of Natural Resources :
• Excessive use of natural resources like wood and water
• Excessive use of conventional sources of energy like coal and fossil fuels.

Question 3.
Describe the Dimensions of the Environment.
Answer:
The Environment has three major dimensions. These dimensions have a mutual influence on each other and have a significant impact on the sustenance of life on this earth. The three dimensions are :
1) Physical 2) Biological 3) Social

The various sub-components in each of the three dimensions of the environment are given in the table below :

I. The Physical Environment :
It comprises the abiotic components or non-living components of the environment such as land, air and water. These components are referred to as the lithosphere (land), atmosphere (air) and hydrosphere (water). Each of these physical components can be sub divided into different components based on their physical properties.

a) Lithosphere :
The word ‘lithosphere’ is derived from the Greek words ‘lithos’ (rock) and ‘spharia’ (globe or ball). The lithosphere includes the crust and the upper most mantle of the earth and constitutes the Biotic Environment. It is the solid part of the earth, made up of rocks and solids. The lithosphere occupies about 29% of the earth’s surface area and provides the habitat for flora (plants) and fauna (animals).

b) Atmosphere :
It is a layer of gases which surrounds the earth on all sides. The word ‘atmosphere’ is derived from the Greek words ‘atoms’ (vapour) and ‘sphaira’ (sphere).

The atmosphere of the earth is composed mainly of nitrogen (about 78%), oxygen (21%) and argon (0.9%). Carbon dioxide and other gases are found in traces.

The atmosphere plays a crucial role for the sustenance of life on the earth. Life, as we know it, would not be possible without the atmosphere. Oxygen is used by most organisms for respiration. Plants and animals need nitrogen to make proteins. Carbon dioxide is used by plants and algae for photosynthesis.

The atmosphere keeps us warm. It holds the surface heat on the earth and prevents it from radiating out into space. It reduces the extreme temperatures between day and night. The atmosphere also gives us weather. Wind, rain and snow depend on the atmosphere. Without winds and rain we would not have water to drink. Plants and animals too would perish. Apart from these functions, the atmosphere also helps to pro­tect living organisms from damage caused by harmful ultra violet radiation from the sun.

The atmosphere of the earth consists of a number of layers which differ in properties such as composition, temperature and pressure.

The lowest layer is the troposphere with extends from the surface of the earth to the bottom of the stratosphere. The stratosphere extends from the top of the troposphere to the bottom of the mesosphere and contains the ozone layer. The ozone layer ranges in altitude between 15-35 km where most of the U.V radiation from the sun is absorbed.

The top of the mesosphere ranges from 50-85 km. The thermosphere extends from 85 km to the base of the exosphere at 690 km and contains the ionosphere, a region where the atmosphere is ionised by incoming solar radiation.

c) Hydrosphere :
The hydrosphere (from Greek ‘hydr’ which means ‘water’) is the combined mass of water found on, under and above the surface of the earth. It includes the oceans, lakes and rivers, water vapour in the atmosphere, water in the soil, aquifers and glaciers. About 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered with water. The oceans hold about 96.5% of all the water on the Earth.

Saltwater accounts for 97.5% of water. Fresh water accounts for only 2.5%. Of this fresh water, about 30% is in the form of fresh gro jnd water and the rest exists as snow and ice on glaciers.

II. The Biological Environment or Biosphere :
The biosphere (from Greek ‘bios’ which means ‘life’) is also known as the ecosphere (from Greek ‘oikos’ which means ‘environment’). It is the worldwide sum of all ecosystems. It contains all forms of life including human, animal and plant life. Flora includes all plants in various forms such as forests, grasslands and other types of vegetation. Fauna refers to all animals and other organisms which live in the air, soil or water. The average thick-ness of the biosphere, consisting of those parts of the air, water, soil and rock where life exists in some form, is about 25 km.

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact time the biosphere came into existence as records of primitive living forms that have been preserved are indistinct and rare to find in the earth’s crust. However, from the evidence available, it is believed that life began about 4 billion years ago when the oceans were formed.

III. Social Environment :
It is also known as cultural or man-made environment. It is concerned with the social behaviour of organisms. All the organisms of the floral and faunal environment organise themselves into social groups and form what is known as the social environment. Social environment involves population interaction and behaviour patterns of animals in response to their environment.

Question 4.
Explain the impact of Man’s Activities on the Environment.
Answer:
Impact of Man’s Activities on the Environment :
Several human activities like industrialization, urbanization and population growth have adversely affected bio-geo-chemical cycles. The impact of man’s activities on the environment is referred to as the anthropogenic impact on the environment. It includes the impact on biophysical environments, biodiversity and other resources.

Man’s activities have caused a rapid depletion of natural resources. Green House Gas (GHG) emissions (carbon dioxide, methane, etc.) have increased, leading to global warming, climate change and natural disasters. Pollution is fouling the air, water and land. Altered bio-geo-chemical cycles combined with climate change have a negative impact on biodiversity, food security, human health and water quality. The National Wildlife Federation, USA, states that every day 100 plant and animal species are becoming extinct as a result of deforestation. It is estimated that global temperature may increase by more than 2 degrees Celsius by the end of the century, making the earth in hospitable to most species.

The impact of man’s activities on the environment may be long lasting and even irreversible. We can stem the damage to some extent by taking appropriate steps like afforestation, change of farming practices, optimal use of resources and changing our patterns of consumption.

If we compare Earth with other planets in the solar system, we find that while sunlight is available on the other seven planets too, with varying intensities, air and water are available only on Earth. Without air and water, Life, as we know it, cannot exist.

The Environment does not require man. It can exist without human interaction or interference and can sustain billions of species that inhabit the earth. Man, on the other hand, requires the environment for sustenance of life. It is our bounden duty to protect it and ensure that future generations too can live in harmony with Nature.

Question 5.
What is the legacy thet we should leave for future generations?
Answer:
It is just multi-storeyed buildings, massive infrastructure and complex electronic gadgets that we should bequeath our children or a clean environment which supports life and provides sustenance? Man is the most intelligent animal on earth. He is well aware of the havoc he is wreaking on the environment and knows too that the damage he is inflicting on Nature may be irreversible. Even now it is not too late for all of us to save the earth. The majestic mountains, the vast oceans, the rich flora and fauna need to be preserved. Small individual actions will collectively make a huge difference.

Let us all take a pledge, ‘I shall go Green’.
Let us all take a decision to

• Conserve Water.
• Conserve Energy.
• Implement the concept ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’ in our day to day life.
• Conserve Natural Resources.
• Minimize activities that cause Pollution Let us not forget.

“We have not inherited the Earth from our ancestors, we have borrowed it from our children.”

Question 6.
Explain water cycle briefly.
Answer:
It refers to the cycle of processes by which water evaporates from the surface of the earth, rises into the atmosphere, cools and condenses into rain or snow in clouds, falls to the surface as precipitation and is collected once again in lakes, rivers and oceans. Solar energy, in the form of heat and light, besides gravity, causes the transfer of water from one state to another over periods ranging from hours to thousands of years. The water cycle is crucial for the sustenance of life and ecosystems on earth.

There are four important stages in the water cycle. In the first stage the sun heats the water on the surface of the earth. The water from lakes, rivers and oceans gets hot and changes into vapour. This process is called evaporation. The water vapour then cools and collects in the sky as clouds. This is called condensation. In the next stage water in the form of rain, snow or hail falls from the clouds. It is called precipitation. The water that falls gets collected in oceans, streams, rivers and lakes. This stage is called collection. The process continues in this manner.

It should be noted that evaporation takes place not only from water but also from snow and plants. Evaporation from snow and ice is called sublimation. Transpiration refers to the expiration of water through the minute pores or stomata of trees. Evapo transpiration is the term used by hydrologists with reference to the three processes together — transpiration, sublimation and evaporation.

Question 7.
Explain Bio-geo-chemical cycle briefly.
Answer:
Bio-geo-chemical cycles are defined as large scale cycles, involving inorganic substances which pass through a biotic phase and then return to an abiotic or inorganic state. The term is used as the process includes a variety of biological, geological and chemical processes. Many chemicals cycle through biotic (biosphere) and abiotic (lithosphere, atmosphere and hydro-sphere) compartments of the earth. Nutrient elements like car-bon, nitrogen, hydrogen, oxygen and sulphur move through the earth’s atmosphere, ocean and sediments. These cycles are important because important elements are transported and stored suclj that they can be used by living organisms. Given below is an example :

• Plants take nutrients (inorganic elements) through their roots from the soil while animals do so through the intake of food and water. These nutrients get recycled back to the earth after the death and decay of the plants and animals.

Bio-geo-chemical cycles are of two types :

1. Those that involve cycling of all elements together e.g. Water cycle
2. Those that involve cycling of individual elements e.g. carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle, oxygen cycle.

Question 8.
Write about Oxygen Cycle.
Answer:

1. Large amounts of oxygen is present in air (21%).
2. Some of this O₂ is dissolved in water. O₂ content in air and water are in equilibrium i.e., whenever O₂ content in water decreases, more amount of O₂ from air gets dissolved in water. So that the ratio of O₂ in air and water always remain constant.
3. O₂ dissolved in water is used for respiration by aquatic plants and animals.
4. Similarly terrestrial plants and animals use oxygen present in air for their respiration.
5. The by – products of respiration – carbondioxide and water are released into air.
6. These two are taken up by plants and are used by photosynthesis.
7. The by – product of photosynthesis is O₂ which is released into air.
8. Carbondioxide is also formed when fuels like wood, coal and petroleum products are burnt.
9. There is a fine balance between these processes, so that the total amount of O₂ present in air remains constants. All these processes together represent O₂ cycle.
   
10. O₂ also has another important role in environment. In the upper layers of atmosphere, O₂ is converted to ozone. This is another form of oxygen in which each molecule has three oxygen atoms instead of two.
11. 
12. Ozone gas is present at a height of 16 – 23 km from the surface of earth. At this height it covers the entire planet like a blanket.
13. Light rays reaching earth from such has three components i.e. Ultraviolet rays (uv), visible rays and Infrared rays. Ozone has the property of absorbing ultraviolet light and does not allow it to fall on Earth.

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 1 Dimensions of the Environment appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 9th Lesson Global Environmental Issues

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Write an essay on Global Environmental Issues and its protection.
Answer:
Global Environmental issues :
All across the world, people are facing a plethora of new and challenging environmental problems every day. Some of them are small and affect only a few ecosystems, but others are drastically changing the world as we know it.

Our planet is on the brink of a severe environmental crisis. Current environmental problems make us vulnerable to disasters and tragedies, now as well as in the future. We are in a state of planetary emergency. Unless we address the various issues prudently and seriously, we are doomed to disaster.

Given below are some of the major environmental problems that require urgent attention.

Major Current Environmental Problems :
i)Pollution :
The ill effects of the pollution of air, water and soil cannot be undone even in a thousand years. Water pollution is caused by oil spill, acid rain and discharge of effluents by industries; air pollution is caused by various gases and toxins released by industries and factories and combustion of fossil fuels; soil pollution is caused mainly by industrial waste that deprives soil of essential nutrients. Pollutants like heavy metals, nitrates and plastic degrade the environment and are a threat to all forms of life.

ii) Global Warming :
Fossil fuel consumption results in emission of greenhouse gases like methane, carbondioxide and nitrous oxide which are responsible for global warming and climate change. Global warming leads to rising temperatures of the oceans and the Earth’s surface, causing melting of polar ice caps, rise in sea levels and also unnatural patterns of precipitation such as flash floods, excessive snow or desertification. Nations throughout the world are taking efforts to shift to renewable sources of energy like solar, wind, biogas and geothermal energy. The cost of installing the infrastructure and maintaining these sources has plummeted in recent years.

iii) Over population :
The population of the planet is reaching unsustainable levels as it faces shortage of resources like water, fuel and food. Population explosion is more pronounced in developing countries. India is expected to become the most populous country in the world in 2022 and by 2030 its population is expected to cross 1.5 billion. Intensive agriculture practised to produce food causes damage to the environment through use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and insecticides.

iv) Natural Resources Depletion :
Natural resources occur within the environment in their original and natural form, undisturbed by humanity. They may take centuries or even millions of years to form. While some like air and water are vital for our survival, others like coal and minerals are used for satisfying daily needs. Natural resources are getting consumed much faster than they can be replenished or regenerated. This leads to the degradation of the ecosystems.

v) Waste Disposal :
The over consumption of resources and use of plastics is creating a global crisis of waste disposal. Developed countries are notorious for producing an excessive amount of waste or garbage and dumping their waste in the oceans and in less developed countries. Nuclear waste disposal is associated with tremendous health hazards. Plastic, fast food packaging and cheap electronic wastes threaten the well-being of humans and animals.

vi) Climate Change :
Change in regional climate patterns in many parts of the world is another environmental problem that has assumed deadly proportions during the last few decades. Climate change has various harmful effects including melting of polar ice, change in seasons, occurrence of new diseases, frequent occurrence of floods and changes in the overall weather scenario.

vii) Loss of Biodiversity :
It is the extinction of species (human, plant or animal) worldwide and also the local reduction or loss of species in a certain habitat. Human activity is leading to the extinction of species and habitats and loss of biodiversity. Eco systems, which took millions of years to perfect, are in danger of being destabilised when any species population gets decimated. The population of wild bees is rapidly decreasing, posing a threat to global agriculture. Balance of natural processes like pollination is crucial for the survival of the ecosystem. Similarly, the destruction of coral reefs is endangering marine life.

viii) Deforestation :
Forests are natural sinks of carbon dioxide and produce fresh oxygen. They also help in regulating temperature and rainfall. At present forests cover 30% of the land but every year tree cover equal in area to the country of .Panama is lost due to deforestation. Billions of trees are being cut every year to cater to the needs of the growing polulation. The green cover is decreasing in order to make more land available for residential, industrial and commercial purposes.

ix) Ocean acidification :
oceans is called ocean acidification. It is a recent phenomenon. Human activities have led to massive amounts of carbon dioxide being produced. Oceans absorb nearly 30% of carbon dioxide in the air. The carbondioxide that is absorbed reacts with sea-water and makes it acidic. In the past 200 years alone, ocean water has become 30 percent more acidic-faster than any known change in ocean chemistry in the last 50 million years. Ocean acidification is a threat to marine life, particularly shellfish and plankton.

x) Ozone Layer Depletion :
The ozone layer is an invisible layer-of protection around the planet that protects us from the sun’s harmful rays. Depletion of the crucial ozone layer of the atmosphere is attributed to pollution caused by chloro-fluoro carbons (CFCs). Once these toxic gases reach the upper atmosphere, they cause a hole in the ozone layer, the biggest of which is above the Antarctic. CFCs are banned in many industries and consumer products.

xi) Acid Rain:
It is rain polluted by acid that has been released into the atmosphere from factories and other industrial processes. Acid rain occurs due to the presence of certain pollutants in the atmosphere. Acid rains can be caused due to combustion of fossil fuels or erupting volcanoes or rotting vegetation which release sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide into the atmosphere. Acid rain adversely affects human health, wildlife and marine life.

xii) Water Pollution :
Clean drinking water is becoming a rare commodity. Water is becoming an economic and political issue as the human population fights for this resource. Industrial development is filling rivers, seas and oceans with toxic pollutants which are a threat to human health. .

xiii) Urban Sprawl :
Urban sprawl refers to the expansion of population from high density urban areas to low density surrounding areas, often without planning. This results in the spreading of the city over more and more rural land. Urban sprawl results in land degradation, increased traffic, environ-mental issues and health issues. The evergrowing demand for land destroys the natural environment.

xiv) Public Health Issues :
Current environmental problems pose a risk to the health of humans and animals. Dirty water is the biggest health risk of the world. Pollutants in the soil, air and water include toxins, chemicals and disease carrying organisms. They cause respiratory diseases like asthma and cardiac- vascUlar problems. High temperatures encourage the spread of infectious diseases like dengue.

xv) Genetically Modified Foods (GM foods) :
GM food or bio-engineered foods are foods produced from organisms that have changes introduced into their DNA using methods oi genetic engineering. The technique allows the introduction of new traits into the organism. For instance, foods be engineered to become more resistant to weeds and pests. Texture, flavour and nutrient values can be improved. The first GM food was sold commercially in 1994. It was a type of tomato which had a long shelf life. Genetic modification of food sometimes results in increased toxins and diseases as genes from a plant that cause allergies can get transferred to the target plant.

Genetically modified crops can cause serious environmental problems as an engineered gene may prove toxic to wild life. Sometimes excessive toxins are used to make plants resistant to insects. This can cause resultant organisms to become resistant to antibodies. Bt cotton is the first GM crop to be approved in India and it is being cultivated extensively. Bt bringal and GM mustard are ready for commercial use but approval was withheld because of widespread concerns regarding safety of eating GM foods.

There is an urgent need for a change in our way of living. We have caused immense damage to the environment but, at least we can try to prevent further degradation. Even small measures like judicious use of water, electricity, reduction in the usage of plastic and disposable, items, proper segregation of domestic waste and greater use of public transport can go for a long way in protecting our planet. Governments too should play a more protecting roles in striking a balance between developmental activities, and conservation of the environment. If urgent steps are not taken at the individual and collective level, it will soon be too late to save the planet. By raising awareness in the local community and also within the family about such issues, one can help contribute to a more clean and green environment.

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 9 Global Environmental Issues appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 8th Lesson Natural and Manmade Disasters

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Define Disasters and what are its types? Explain Natural Disasters.
Answer:
A disaster is a sudden, calamitous event that seriously disrupts the functioning of a community or society and causes human, material, and economic or environmental losses that exceed the community’s or society’s ability to cope using its own resources. Disasters can broadly be classified as a) natural disasters b) man-made disasters.

Natural disasters are a major adverse event resulting from natural processes of the Earth. Some examples of natural disasters are : floods, forest fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.

Man-made disasters involve an element of human intent, negligence, or error; or involve a failure of a man-made system. Stampedes, road and railway accidents, plane crashes and fire accidents are examples of man-made disasters which result in human suffering and loss of lives. The damage to the environment is often temporary and negligible. Sometimes, however, the impact of man-made disasters on the environment is colossal and long lasting, There may be a large scale destruction of lives and property. Examples are nuclear disasters, war, industrial accidents and oil spills in the ocean.

Given below are tables containing informanon about various natural and man made disasters and the damage that ensures :

I. Natural Disasters :

Type	Desription	Damage
Earthquake	An earthquake is a shak­ing of the ground caused by the sudden breaking and movement of tectonic plates of the Earth’s rocky outermost crust.	The shifting masses send out shock waves that may be powerful enough to al­ter the surface of the Earth, thrusting up cliffs and opening great cracks in the ground. Earthquakes cause loss of lives and also great damage, like col­lapse of buildings, broken power and gas lines, land­slides snow avalanches, tsunamis.
Volcanic eruptions	A volcanic eruption oc­curs when hot materials are thrown out of a volca­noes. Eruptions can come from side branches or from the top of the volcano. Kilauea, in Hawaii, is con­sidered one of the worlds most frequently active volcanoes. It erupted in May 2018.	Hot lava can travel very far and burn, bury or dam­age buildings and trees in its path. Ash may cause roofs to collapse under its weight. Even small quan­tities can harm humans if inhaled. The main danger from a volcano is the immense cloud of ash which has a disastrous global effect on climate and temperature for many areas.
Cyclone	A cyclone refers to any low pressure area with winds spiraling inwards.	The main effects of tropical cyclones include heavy rain, strong wind and large storm surges at landfall. Sea water with combined force rushes inlands and in­undates the low lying areas.
Flood	A flood is an overflow of an expanse of water that submerges land.	The primary effects of flooding include loss of life, damage to buildings, bridges, sewerage systems, roadways and canals. Floods also fre­quently damage power tran­smission.
Drought	A drought is a period of below-average precipitation in a given region, resulting in prolonged short­ages in the water supply, whether atmospheric, sur­face water or ground wa­ter.	Shortage of water can adversely affect both residen­tial areas and industrial ar­eas. The formation of dust bowls indicates severe erosion of land. Diminished crops and se­vere scarcity of food may ensue. Droughts have a dev­astating impact on livestock. Damage to wildlife takes place.
Tsunami	A tsunami is a series of water waves caused by the displacement of a large volume of body of water, gen eraliy an ocean or a large lake. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and other under water explosions, landslides, glacier calvings (breaking), meteorite impacts and other disturbances above or be­low water all have the po­tential to generate a tsunami.	The force of a tsunami cau­ses massive damage and loss of life. The push of saltwater into freshwater sources nearby can disrupt farming, Floodling can also carry sew age and toxic substances into the environment, posing a health risk.
Landslide	A landslide is defined as the movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope. Landslides are a type of “mass wasting,” which denotes any down-slope movement of soil and rock under the direct influence of gravity.	Landslides cause property damage, injury and death and adversely affect a vari­ety of resources. For ex­ample, water supplies, fish­eries, sewage disposal sys­tems, forests, dams and roadways can be affected for years.
Epidemic	An epidemic occurs when a disease strikes a large number of people at one time. It spreads at a rapid rate. E.g.: SARS virus, swine flu, ebola, nipah virus. Many diseases are spread after natural di­sasters like tsunami, floods etc.	Loss of lives, damage to the economy, adverse effect on tourism, breakdown of public health infrastructure. A pandemic is the sudden outbreak of a disease that affects a whole region, a con­tinent or the world and causes a high degree of mortality.

II. Man-Made Disasters :

Question 2.
Write an essay on Disaster Management.
Answer:
Disaster management is defined as the organization and management of resources and responsibilities for dealing with all. humanitarian aspects of emergencies, in particular preparedness, response and recovery in order to lessen the impact of disasters. It refers not only to steps taken after a disaster occurs, such as providing shelter and food to those affected by an earthquake or fire, and rebuilding property that has been destroyed, but also includes preventive measures that are taken by the government as well as citizens to avert impending loss of life and property when a disaster is expected to take place.

For example, in 2014 when Hudhud, a cyclone of intense severity, was expected to strike the eastern coast of India, fishermen were warned not to venture into the sea, citizens were advised to stay indoors and hourly updates regarding the movements of the cyclone were broadcast. Thousands of people living in low lying areas were evacuated and given shelter in safe places. Though the damage to property in and around Visakhapatnam was colossal, the loss of lives was greatly minimized because of good disaster management.

Given below are some of the measures that can be taken by people to minimize the impact of natural disasters :

Cyclone :

1. Keep track of the weather warnings that are being broadcast on T.V or the radio. This will help you prepare for an emergency evacuation.
2. Prepare an emergency kit consisting of dry food, water, warm clothes etc.
3. Remain indoors. Stay in the strongest part of the building.
4. Board up the windows and lock the doors.
5. At the onset of the cyclone, disconnect all electrical appliances and turn off the gas. Do not venture outdoors till it is declared safe to do so.

Heat Weave :

1. Avoid going out in the Sun, especially between 12.00 noon and 3.00 p.m.
2. Drink sufficient water and as often as possible, even if not thirsty.
3. Wear light-weight, light-coloured, loose, and porous cotton clothes. Use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or chappals while going out in the Sun.
4. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks as these dehydrate the body.
5. Avoid high-protein food and do not eat stale food.
6. Use ORS (oral rehydration solution), homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water and buttermilk which help to re-hydrate the body.
7. Keep animals in the shade and give them plenty of water to drink.

Sun Stroke :

1. Make the affected person lie in a cool place or in the shade. Wipe her/him with a wet cloth/wash the body frequently. Pour water of normal temperature on the head. It is important to bring down the body temperature.
   
2. Give the person ORS to drink or lemon sarbat/torani to rehydrate the body.
3. Take the person immediately to the nearest health centre. The patient needs immediate hospitalisation as heat strokes can be fatal.

Flood :
If a flood is likely to hit your area, one should :

1. Listen to the radio or television for information.
2. Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
   
3. Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.
4. Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

Earthquake :

Have a disaster emergency kit ready which contains: Battery operated torch, battery operated radio, first aid kit, emergency food (dry items) and water (packed and sealed), candles and matches in a waterproof container, chlorine tablets, essential medicines, cash and credit cards, thick ropes and sturdy shoes.

If-indoors :

1. Drop to the ground; take cover by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture; hold on until the shaking stops. If there is no table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building.
2. Stay away from glass windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, (such as lighting fixtures or furniture).
3. Use a doorway for shelter only if it is in close proximity to you and if you know it is a strongly supported, load bearing doorway.
4. Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave.
5. Be aware that the electricity or fire alarms may go out.

If-outdoors :

1. Do not move from where you are. However, keep away from buildings, trees, streetlights and utility wires.
2. If you are in open space, stay there until the shaking stops. The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits and alongside exterior walls. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass and falling objects.

Given below are some measures that can be taken to minimize the impact of Man Made Disasters :

Nuclear Disaster/Exposure to Radiation Disaster :

1. It is imperative for the management and the government to conduct onsite (within the nuclear plant, where workers are affected) and offsite (surrounding areas where residents are affected) emergency response planning and training, besides conducting mock drills.
2. In the event of a nuclear disaster, people within a 10 mile ERZ (Emergency Radiation Zone) are evacuated to a safe place so that their risk of being exposed to radiation is minimized.
   
3. Residents may be given potassium iodide tablets by the government to reduce or prevent the effects radiation.
4. People should not drink water from open wells/ponds; they should avoid crops and vegetables that are grows in a 50 mile ERZ as there are high chances of radioactive contamination of food and water supplies.
5. People should follow the instructions of the district or civil defence authorities and not panic.

Chemical Disaster :

1. Do not panic, evacuate the premises calmly and quickly move in a direction that is perpendicular to the wind direction through the designated escape route.
2. Keep a wet handkerchief or piece of cloth/sari on the face during evacuation.
3. Keep the sick, elderly, weak and handicapped inside the house and close all the doors and windows tightly.
   
4. Do not consume uncovered food and water left open to the air. Drink only from covered bottles.
5. Change into fresh clothing after reaching a safe place/shelter and wash hands properly.
6. Inform Fire & Emergency services, Police and Medical services from the safe location by calling 101, 100 and 108 respectively.
7. Provide correct and accurate information to government officials.
8. Inform/Caution others about the occurrence of the event at public gathering places (like schools, shopping centres, theatres etc.).
9. Do not pay attention to rumours and do not spread rumours.

Fire disaster management :

1. During a fire do not panic.
2. Alert the firemen (fire service), ambulance services and nearby police stations.
3. Use fire extinguishers.
4. Deaths due to fire accidents mostly occur due to inhalation of smoke and asphyxiation rather than burning. Cover your head with a towel soaked in water and breathe through it.
5. Evacuation of the trapped people should be undertaken in a systematic manner.
6. People whose clothes have caught fire should be covered in blankets or coats and rolled on the ground.
7. Elevators should not be used when there is a fire.

Question 3.
Discuss some Global Environmental Disasters.
Answer:
London’s Killer Fog Also called the Great Smog of London, it was a severe air pollution event that affected London for several days in December 1952. The city was covered with a thick, black blanket of fog and smoke, containing nitrogen oxide, soot, and sulfur dioxide. Visibility was drastically reduced as the smog entered indoors too. It is estimated that nearly 12,000 people were killed in this disaster.

The Nuclear Power Plant Explosion in Chernobyl, Ukraine :
In April 26, 1986, a reactor shutdown was experienced at the Chernobyl Nuclear Facility. The horrific fire and explosion that ensued claimed the lives of 50 personnel instantly and emitted more than 400 times the radiation released during the Hiroshima atom bomb. More than 4000 cancer deaths have been linked with the extensive spread of radioactive substances. Radiation levels at the site are still high.

Union Carbide Cyanide Gas Leak, Bhopal, India :
On December 3, 1984, a Union Carbide India Limited pesticide plant in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India accidentally released a deadly chemical fog, which killed more than 5,000 people. They were victims of fatal poisoning by methyl isocyanate. More than 50,000 people underwent treatment due to exposure to the gas. It is believed that the gas leak has claimed an additional 20,000 lives since. It is regarded as the worst industrial chemical disaster in history.

Minamata Disease Disaster :
Industrial waste water containing methyl mercury was released by Chisso Corporation into Minamata Bay and the Shiranui Sea in Japan from 1932 to 1968. The highly toxic chemical accumulated in shell fish and other fish. The local people who consumed the fish fell victim to mercury poisoning. The cause of the disease was identified in 1956. About 2000 people died as a result of ‘Minamata disease’ and another ten thousand people were affected seriously.

British petroleum oil spill, Gulf of Mexico : On April 20, 2010, there was an explosion and sinking of the deep water horizon oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. The explosion was regarded as the most prominent accidental marine oil spill in the petroleum industry history. Eleven employees died. The explosion released about 60 million barrels of mixed grade oil from the disconnected well over a period of four months. Over 34,000 birds (including egrets and blue heron) hundreds of sea turtles, about 72 dolphins and other marine vertebrates and invertebrates were poisoned and suffocated in the oil.

Gulf of Mexico dead zone : This is one of the ill-famed aquatic regions that arose as a consequence of human activity. It is considered the largest “dead zone” region in the United States. Hundreds of fish are often found floating dead in the Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone. The cause for the “dead zone” is the relentless dumping of phosphorus and nitrogen nutrients in the area. The nutrients come from the Mississippi River, which is the drainage area for nearly half the nitrogen and phosphorus waste of continental America. Aquatic species including plants, fish and cannot survive in the area.

E-waste In Guiyu, China :
Guiyu, China is considered the area which is the biggest electronic waste site on the planet. Massive amounts of obsolete electronics are dumped in the area. It has resulted in high toxicity levels of heavy metals and chemicals in the region’s soils and water systems. Consequently, about 88% of the children in the province suffer from lead poisoning and there is a higher than normal rate of miscarriages. The province is labelled the world’s “electronic graveyard”.

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 8 Natural and Manmade Disasters appeared first on TS Board Solutions.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 7th Lesson Types, Sources and Effects of Pollution

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Define Environmental pollution. Explain sources, effects and control measures of air pollution.
Answer:
Environmental pollution can be defined as any undesirable change in the physical, chemical or biological characteristics of any components of the environment (air, water, soil) which can cause harmful effects on various forms, of life or property. In other words, it is the contamination of air, water or soil by substances that are harmful to living beings. The major forms of pollution are air pollution, water pollution and soil pollution. Noise pollution, thermal pollution, nuclear pollution and plastic pollution too are types of pollution. The contamination of the environment by the generation and improper disposal of garbage and other wastes is sometimes referred to as waste pollution. .

Air pollution :
Air pollution is the introduction of particulates or harmful gases into the earth’s atmosphere, causing undesirable effects on man and his environment. Put simply, it is the fouling of the air by harmful substances.

Sources of Air Pollution :
The sources of air pollution are natural and anthropogenic (man-made). Natural sources include volcanic eruptions, forest fires, sea salt sprays and pollen grains. Man-made sources include industrial units, vehicular emissions and agricultural activities.

Indoor air pollution can be more dangerous than outdoor air pollution

Air pollutants and their sources

Effects of Air Pollutants (substances that pollute the air)

National Air Quality Index :
There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted, Poor, Very Poor and Severe. Each of these categories is decided based on ambient (existing in the surroundings) concentration values of air pollutants and their likely health impacts, known as health breakpoints. These pollutants include particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, ammonia and lead.

AQI categories and health breakpoints for the eight pollutants :
Air Quality Index is a tool for effective communication of air quality status to people in terms which are easy to understand. It transforms complex air quality data of various pollutants into a single number (index value), nomenclature and colour.

Control of Air Pollution :

1. Locating of industries away from residential areas.
2. Modification of process and/or equipment.
3. Using low sulphur coal.
4. Controlling vehicular pollution.
5. Using mass transport system.
6. Using non-conventional sources of energy.
7. Planting more trees and indoor plants.

Question 2.
Explain about noise pollution.
Answer:
Noise Pollution :
Unpleasant and unwanted sound is called Noise. The intensity of sound is expressed in decibels (dB).

According to the World Health Organization, sound levels less than 70 dB do not cause damage to living organisms, regardless of how long or consistent the exposure is. Exposure for more than 8 hours to constant noise beyond 85 dB may be hazardous.

Sources of Noise Pollution :
The main sources of noise are various household sources, agriculture machines, modes of transportation (like air, road, rail transportation), industrial operations, construction activities, defence equipment, loud speakers, celebrations, electric home appliances and the bursting of crackers.

Effects of Noise :
i) Interferes with human communication :
In a noisy area communication is severely affected.

ii) Hearing damage :
Noise can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss depending on the intensity and duration of the sound level.

iii) hysiological and Psychological changes :
Continuous exposure to noise may result in hypertension, insomnia (sleeplessness), gastrointestinal and digestive disorders, peptic ulcers, blood pressure changes, behavioral changes and emotional changes.

Ambient Air Quality Standards in respect of Noise recommended by CPCB :

Day time : 6.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. (16 hours); Night time : 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. (8 hours)

Noise Pollution during Deepawali :
Noise quality is affected by the fireworks during Deepawali festival. Deepawali is a festival of lights. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm all over India during the month of October or November (onset of winter).

Deepawali is celebrated by bursting crackers and fireworks, which increase the pollution load in terms of air and noise quality. Fireworks contain chemicals such as aluminium, potassium nitrate, copper compounds, antimony sulphide, arsenic, sulphur, manganese, potassium perchlorate, chrontium nitrate and barium nitrate.

Control of Noise Pollution :

1. Reduction of noise at source.
2. Proper oiling of machinery.
3. Use of sound absorbing silencers.
4. Planting more trees.
5. Banning of crackers.

Question 3.
Explain water pollution.
Answer:
Water pollution is defined as the alteration of physical, chemical and biological characteristics of water resulting in harmful effects on life systems.

Sources of water pollution :

Types of Water Pollution :

Effects of Water Pollution :

1. Sewage and domestic wastes affect human health resulting in diseases such as cholera, typhoid, dysentery.
2. Industrial discharges contain metals like lead, mercury and cadmium, which have a deleterious impact on life systems. They also contain harmful chemicals like arsenic.
   Lead – damages liver end kidneys.
   Arsenic – lung cancer, ulcers in gastro intestinal tract.
   Cadmium- diarrhea, kidney cysts, bone deformation. Mercury – neurological disorders,
3. Agricultural discharges include fertilizers and pesticides which are toxic to both aquatic and human life.

Marine pollution can mean plastic litter, other litter such as glass bottles and cans, oil and chemical spills or polluted stormwater from drains and rivers flowing into the sea.

Control of Water Pollution :

1. Restricted use of pesticides.
2. Prevent run-off of fertilizers and manure (washing away of fertilizers and manure into nearby water sources or leaching into ground water).
3. Stop entry of sewage into water bodies.
4. Stop letting out industrial effluents into water bodies.

Question 4.
Write about Soil Pollution.
Answer:
Soil pollution is defined as the presence of toxic chemicals (pollutants or contaminants) in soil, in high enough concentrations to pose a risk to human health and/or the ecosystem. Causes of Soil Pollution : There are two main causes through which soil pollution is generated: anthropogenic (manmade) causes as natural causes. .

Man-made Soil Pollutants :
Man-made soil pollution is usually caused by the improper disposal of waste coming from industrial or urban sources, industrial activities and agricultural pesticides and also due to accidental spills.

Natural Soil Pollutants :
Natural processess can lead to an accumulation of toxic chemicals in the soil. This type of contamination has been accorded only in a few cases, such as the accumulation of high levels of perchlorate in soil from the Atacama Desert in Chile, a type of accumulation which is purely due to natural processes in arid environments.

Effects of Soil Pollution :

1. Sewage sludge contains many pathogenic organisms, bacteria, viruses and intestinal worms which cause various diseases.
2. Industrial discharges like acids, alkalis, pesticides, insecticides, weedicides and fungicides affect soil fertility by causing changes in the physical, chemical and biological properties.
3. There is an increase in salinity when soil gets polluted by nitrate and phosphate deposits used in fertilizers and pesticides. Plants cannot grow properly in saline soil and they can be poisonous to humans when consumed.
4. Crops grown on polluted soils become unfit for human consumption as they become poisoned with chemicals and metals that have leached into the soil from industries.
5. Soil pollution causes water and air pollution. Water contamination takes place when toxic chemicals from the soil leach into groundwater. Air is fouled by toxic chemicals and gases that are discharged into the air by polluted soil.
6. Radioactive wastes discharged form industries and laboratories into the soil can cause neurological damage, loss of hair and nausea.

Control of Soil Pollution :

1. Effluents should be properly treated before being discharged into the soil.
2. Wastes should be properly collected and disposed of by appropriate methods.
3. Recovery of useful products from wastes should be encouraged.
4. Biodegradable organic waste should be used for generation of biogas.
5. Microbial degradation of biodegradable substances.

Question 5.
Write about thermal, nuclear and plastic pollution.
Answer:
Thermal Pollution :
Thermal pollution is the industrial discharge of heated water into a river, lake or other body of water, causing a rise in temperature that endangers aquatic life and harms others who use the water.

Effects of Thermal Pollution :

1. The dissolved oxygen of the content of water decreases.
2. Fish migration is affected due to formation of various thermal zones.
3. Composition of flora and fauna changes as sensitive species are replaced by species which are temperature tolerant.

Control of Thermal Pollution :
The following methods can be employed for control:

1. Cooling ponds
2. Cooling towers
3. Spray ponds or reservoirs in which warm water, usually from thermal plants, is cooled before reuse.

Nuclear Pollution :
The term refers to the risk or danger to human health or the environment posed by radiation emanating from the atomic nuclei of a given substance, or the possibility of an uncontrolled explosion originating from a fusion or fission reaction of atomic nuclei.

Sources of Radioactivity :
i) Natural Sources :
Cosmic rays from outer space, radioactive radon – 222, soil, rocks, air, water and food, which contain one or more radioactive substances.

ii) Anthropogenic Sources :
Nuclear power plants, nuclear accidents, X-rays.

Effects of Radiation :

Control of Nuclear Pollution :

1. The site of the nuclear power plant should be carefully chosen after studying long term and short term effects.
2. Proper disposal of radioactive wastes from the laboratory should be undertaken.

VII) Plastic Pollution :
Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic products in the environment to the extent that it adversely affects wildlife, wildlife habitat, or humans. Plastic is cheap and durable. It is present in thousands of articles we use in daily life, whether in furniture or toys, carpets or containers, diapers or mobile phones. ‘Use and throw’ disposable plastic plates and glasses, plastic articles such as bottled drinks, straws, shopping bags and packaging material are commonly used even in developing countries.

Plastic may be convenient to use but it is very harmful to the environment. Landfill areas are filled with mounds of plastic. As plastic is not biodegradable, it remains as debris in the soil or is washed away into the water and remains there for hundreds of years without decomposing. It releases harmful chemicals into the soil. These chemicals seep into groundwater and harm species that drink the water. Plastic fishing nets used for trawling operations lie submerged in water and leak toxins. Sea animals get entwined in these nets and die.

It is estimated that since the 1950s more than 6 billion tonnes of plastic have been produced, of which only a fifth has been recycled or incinerated. Plastic is clogging the sewage system and leaching harmful chemicals into the soil, air and water. It chokes marine life and kills land animals which ingest it by mistake. Plastic is suspected of being a causative factor in several diseases which afflict human beings, including cancer. It can also cause genetic mutations.

Given below are diagrams which point out the harmful effects of plastic and the measures we can take to reduce plastic pollution.

India hosted the global World Environmental Day celebrations on 5 June 2018. “Beat Plastic Pollution”, the theme for World Environment 2018, urges governments, industry, communities, and individuals to come together and explore sustainable alternatives and urgently reduce the production and excessive use of single- use plastic which pollutes our oceans, damages marine life and threatens human health.

Question 6.
Write about solid waste pollution.
Answer:
Waste can be defined as a material or substance that is eliminated or discarded as it is no longer useful or required after the completion of a process. Waste pollution is the fouling of the environment by wastes. Ther term ‘solid waste’ refers to any material that is discarded by being abandoned or thrown away. It includes garbage, refuse, sludge and discarded materials. It may consist of not only solids but semisolids, liquids and gaseous substances too. Solid waste can be classified as .municipal, industrial, agricultural, medical, mining waste and sewage sludge.

Different Types of Wastes :
i) Municipal Solid Waste :
Municipal waste contains a variety of discarded materials like polyethylene bags, empty metal and aluminum cans, scrap metals, glass bottles, waste paper, diapers, cloth/rags, and food waste.

ii) Industrial Waste :
Such wastes are generated due to processes and activities pertaining to industry, manufacturing, mining, and agriculture. Industrial waste can be classified as hazardous or non-hazardous. Hazardous waste may be flammable, corrosive or reactive, such as chemical solvents, metals, and paper products. They.should be disposed of very carefully. Non-hazardous industrial wastes include sludge and demolition debris such as bricks. They are usually accepted in landfills.

iii) Bio-Medical Waste :
Waste in any form from hospitals, clinics, pathological laboratories, and blood banks is referred to as bio-medical waste. Examples are: discarded syringes, gloves, and bandages, unwanted samples of human and animal blood, urine, and tissues, discarded medicines.

iv) Electronic Waste :
E-waste or electronic waste refers to discarded electrical and electronic equipment including their components, consumables, and spares. Examples are computers, TVs, and mobile phones which have been discarded as they have reached the end of their ‘useful life’.

v) Construction and Demolition Wastes :
Wastes or debris generated during construction, demolition or renovation of buildings. The wastes include concrete, brick, wood, steel and plaster.

Effects of Waste Pollution :
i) Municipal solid wastes pile up on the roads due to improper disposal. This type of dumping allows biodegradable materials to decompose under uncontrolled and unhygienic conditions. The garbage produces a foul smell and is a breeding ground for various types of insects and harmful micro – organisms, besides spoiling the aesthetics of the site.

5 R concept for Waste Management

ii) Industrial solid wastes are sources of toxic metals and hazardous wastes. The harmful chemicals discharged into the water, land and air have adverse effects on human health, besides fouling the environment.

iii) Toxic substances may leach or percolate to contaminate the ground water.

iv) Various types of wastes like cans, pesticides, cleaning solvents, batteries (zinc, lead or mercury), radioactive materials, plastics and e-waste are mixed up with paper, scrap and other non-toxic materials which can be recycled. Burning of some of these materials produces toxic gases which have the potential to cause various types of ailments including cancer.

Handling of Waste :
Waste management is the collection, transportation and disposal of garbage, sewage and other waste material. The adverse effects of solid wastes can be minimized through proper waste management. It is necessary to create public awareness through information, education and communication campaigns and to educate those who generate waste on the following :

1. not to litter.
2. minimise generation of waste.
3. reuse waste to the extent possible.
4. practice segregation of waste into bio-degradable, non-biodegradable (recyclable and combustible), sanitary waste and domestic hazardous wastes at Source.
5. practise home composting, vermicomposting, bio-gas generation and community level composting.
6. wrap sanitary waste securely in pouches and place the same in the bin meant for non-biodegradable waste.
7. store segregated waste at source in different bins.
8. hand over segregated waste to waste pickers, waste collectors, recyclers or waste collection agencies.
9. pay monthly user fees to waste collectors or local bodies for sustainability of solid waste management.
10. stop land filling or dumping of mixed waste.
11. allow only non-usable, non-recyclable, non-biodegradable, non-combustible and non-reactive inert waste to go to the sanitary landfill.

SEGREGATE WASTE AT HOME

Hazardous waste :
Tube lights & bulbs, Batteries, Cleaning agents, Paints, Oils, Aerosol cans, Cosmetics, Insecticides, Medicines, Syringes, Thermometers, and E-waste (computer and mobile parts)

Debris :
Dust, Drain silt, Ashes, Broken bricks, Broken glass, Construction waste, Demolition waste

Sanitary Waste :
Sanitary napkins, Disposable diapers, Bandages, and Any material contaminated with blood

Dry Waste :
Glass, Wire, Cloth, Leather, Rubber, Thermacol, Metal, Paper Plastic, Wood, Rubber, Rexine, Leather, Fabric.

Garden waste :
Fallen leaves, Trimmed branches, Lawn trimming, Weeds

Wet Waste :
Cooked food, Uncooked food, Fruits, Vegetable peels, Flower waste

The post TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 7 Types, Sources and Effects of Pollution appeared first on TS Board Solutions.