TS Inter 1st Year

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 13th Lesson Concept, Types and Threats to Biodiversity Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 13th Lesson Concept, Types and Threats to Biodiversity

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Define biodiversity and explain the levels or types of Biodiversity.
Answer:
The term biodiversity was introduced by Walter Rosen in 1986. Biodiversity is the shortened form of two words “biological” and ” diversity.” It refers to all the variety of life that can be found on Earth (plants, animals, fungi and micro-organisms) as well as to the communities that they form and the habitats in which they live.

An ecosystem includes all the living things (plants, animals and other organisms) in a given area, interacting with each other, and also with their non-living environments, such as weather, Sun and soil. It is, thus, the interaction of living and non-living things in a particular environment. A biome is a specific geographic area notable for the large community of plants and animals that live there. For example, tropical rainforests, deserts and grasslands.

Biodiversity is not merely the sum of all ecosystems, species and genetic material. Rather, it represents the variability within and among them. It can be distinguished from the expression “biological resources”, which refer to the tangible components of ecosystems. Biological resources are real entities (a particular species of bird, a wheat variety growing in a field, oak wood, etc.) while biological diversity is an attribute of life (the variety of bird species, the genetic variability of wheat around the world, forest types, etc.)

It has been estimated that more than 50 million species of plants, animals and micro – organisms exist in the world. Out of these, about 1.4 million species have been identified so far.
Each species is adapted to live in a specific environment, whether it is the mountain peaks or the depths of the seas, the polar ice caps or the tropical rain forests and deserts. All this diversity of life is confined to a one kilometre thick layer of lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere which forms the biosphere.

Biodiversity Concepts
All life forms that make up biodiversity, including humans, are ultimately connected to all other life forms, and to their physical environment.

• No one living element of any ecosystem can survive independent of the others.
• Connections among living and non-living elements keep the environment functioning and healthy.
• Because biodiversity represents the inter-connectedness of all things, the effects of some causes can be surprising.
• Human impact on the environment, therefore, difectly or indirectly affects the function of other living things, and, by extension, ourselves.

Types of biodiversity :
Biodiversity includes four main types : They are :

1. Species Diversity
2. Genetic Diversity
3. Ecosystem or Community Diversity
4. Functional Diversity.

LEVELS OF BIODIVERSITY
Species Diversity :
Refers to the number of different species of plants, animals, fungi and micro-organisms that are represented in a given community. For example palm trees, elephants or bacteria. The number of species that live in a particular location is called species richness. Abundance is defined as the number of individuals of each species.

Genetic Diversity :
Refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species. The more genetic diversity a population has, the more likelihood the population will be able to adapt and survive. For example, poodles, german shepherds and golden retrievers are all dogs, but they all look different as they have different genes.

Ecosystem or Community Diversity :
Refers to a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment. Each ecosystem corresponds to a series of complex relationships between biotic (living) components such as plants and animals, and abiotic (non-living) components which include sunlight, air, water, minerals and nutrients such as air, water, and mineral soil. Examples : tropical or temperate forests, hot and cold deserts, wetlands, rivers, mountains, coral reefs, etc.

Functional Diversity :
Refers to the way species behave, obtain, food and use the natural resources of an ecosystem. In general a species rich ecosystem is presumed to have high functional divesity, because there are many species with many different behaviours. Functional diversity can be useful to ecologists trying to conserve an ecosystem or restore it when it is damaged, because knowing the behaviours and roles of species can point to gaps in a food cycle or ecological niches that ‘ack species.

Question 2.
Explain Bio-geo-graphical classification of India.
Answer:
India is a mega biodiverse country. In Greek language Mega means ‘Large’. In 1998, India has been recognised as one of the Mega bio – diversity country out of 17 countries in the world. India has been divided into 10 Bio – geographical realms and 26 Bio provinces. India is a land of forests, grasslands,, oceans, wet lands, coastal regions, marine eco system etc.

India is a land of 167 plant species of millets, fruits, vegetables, pulses etc. There are nearly about or more than 100 domestic species, 5, 000 flowering plants, 62% of amphibians. Totally there are 46,000 flora and 81,000 fauna species.

Question 3.
Describe the threats of Biodiversity.
Answer:
Consequences of loss of Biodiversity :
Biodiversity is under serious threat. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates that 22% of known mammals, 32% of amphibians, 14% of birds, and 32% of gymnosperms (plants that do not bear flowers or fruit, e.g. : ferns and moss) are threatened with extinction. Species that were abundant within the last 200 years have gone extinct. For example, passenger pigeons, which numbered more than three billion in the mid 1800s are now extinct. Animals like the polar bear, leopard, tiger, orangutan, otter and pangolin are shrinking in numbers.

Species extinction and loss of biodiversity can be as devastating for the earth as climate change and water pollution. Each species, no matter how small, may have an important role to play in the ecosystem. If there is a drastic increase or decrease in the population of a particular species, it can cause an imbalance in the ecosystem and have unforeseen, cascading effects that cannot be reversed. For instance, the loss of elephants in an area can cause the population of deer to multiply. As the number of deer increases, the available vegetation there decreases. Grass eating animals are affected adversely and may die. The cycle does not stop there. Carnivorous animals which feed on herbivores are, in turn, deprived of prey. Another example is the decline of the honey bee population which is adversely affecting the production of several crops, as pollination fails to take place in the absence of bees.

Causes of loss of Biodiversity / Threats to Biodiversity :
The primary cause of loss of biodiversity is habitat alteration caused by human activities which directly or indirectly affect the ecosystems. These dangers to biodiversity include: population growth and resource consumption, climate change and global warming, habitat conversion and urbanization, invasive alien species, over exploitation of natural resources and environmental degradation.

The table below summarizes the main threats to biodiversity in India

Threats to Marine Water

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 12th Lesson Energy Conservation Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 12th Lesson Energy Conservation

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Explain the need for Energy Conservation.
Answer:
The Need for Energy Conservation :
Carbon Footprint :
It is possible to calculate the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that individual or group activities produce. This measure is called the carbon footprint. For instance, approximately one kg of carbon is added to our personal carbon footprint when we drive a car for a distance of about 6km or when we operate a computer for 32 hours. The more the emission of carbon, the more the environment gets polluted. Today there is greater awareness about the need to reduce our carbon footprint and thereby protect the environment. Energy conservation is one of the methods to reduce damage to the environment.

Energy conservation refers to the effort made to reduce the consumption of energy by using less of an energy service. Energy conservation differs from efficient energy use, which refers to using less energy for a constant service. For example, driving less is an example of energy conservation. Driving the same amount with a higher mileage vehicle is an example of energy efficiency. Energy conservation and efficiency are both energy reduction techniques. Energy conservation leads to enhanced environmental quality and greater personal savings. Energy Conservation is one of the most important steps towards building a sustainable energy system. If a country is self-sufficient in energy, it need not bow down to the pressure tactics of other countries to meet its energy needs.

While the government can formulate policies and frame laws which ensure energy conservation, there are many small steps that can be taken by individuals to conserve energy. Given below are energy conservation techniques that you can follow in your daily life to reduce your overall carbon footprint and save money in the long run. Long term solutions for energy conservation too are listed.

I. Energy conservation at the individual level :
1. Install CFL and LED lights :
Incandescent bulbs should be replaced with CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) or LED (light emitting diode) bulbs. CFL and LED bulbs cost more upfront but last 12 times longer than incandescent bulbs. CFL and LED bulbs save not only energy but also money over a period of time.

2. Optimise the Room Temperature :
Heaters, coolers and air conditioners are commonly used to regulate the temperature indoors. The more the difference between indoor and outdoor temperature, the more the energy consumed to maintain room temperature. The temperature indoors should be kept as close as possible to the outside temperature for energy conservation. Programmable thermostats can be used for this purpose.

3. Insulate your house :
Insulation gives cool air in summer and winter.

Energy-Saving Tips

1. Replace light bulbs with CFLs
2. Unplug electronics when not in use
3. Adjust your thermostat 5* higher
4. Load up dishwasher until full
5. Keep cool with ceiling fans
6. Power down your computer
7. Wash clothes in cold water

4. Maximize the use of natural light :
Switch Off lights during day time will reduce current bill.

5. Get an Energy Audit Done :
Take advice from expert energy saver to save current bill.

6. Use Energy Efficient Appliances :
Buy star products to save electricity bill.

Concept
The Green Building concept is gaining importance in various countries including India. These are building that ensure that were is minized that every stage including the construction and operation of the building resulting low costs, according to experts in the technology.

7. Drive Less, Walk More and Carpool :
Sharing Transport Vehicles will save energy.

8. Switch Off Appliances when Not in Use :
Save energy by switching off computer, Electric devices etc., when not in use.

9. Grow trees :
Plant more trees to provide cool air

II. Long term solutions for energy conservation :
1. Education :
Educate the people to create awareness on Energy Saving.

2. Availability of Eco friendly Alternatives :
Eco friendly alternatives should be available to reduce the carbon footprint. Energy saving bulbs like LED, CFL should be supplied as subsidized for consumers.

3. Zero Energy Balance Construction :
New methods are being used to construct buildings in such a way that there is minimum emission of green house gases.

4. Alternative Sources of Energy :
The use of alternative sources like solar energy and wind energy, is a key energy conservation technique.

5. Cap and Trade Agreements :
There are agreement between Government and Person concerned who establish industry. He will record minimum pollutant limits.

6. Reduced Demand :
With the emergence of specific economy and social conditions Vehicles and Hydride Cars, including in India – the demand has increased and reduce manifold.

7. Research & Development :
Continued funding of research should be done to solve the problem of Fuel.

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 11th Lesson Conventional and non-Conventional Sources of Energy Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 11th Lesson Conventional and non-Conventional Sources of Energy

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Explain the sources of energy.
Answer:
I. Conventional Sources of Energy :
(Non-Renewable) Conventional Energy refers to energy that is obtained from any source that has been in widespread use for a long time. Fossil fuels and traditional biomass are the most widely used conventional source of energy. Coal, petroleum and natural gas are examples of fossil fuels. Kerosene and propane are derivatives of fossil fuels. Traditional biomass refers to wood and other organic matter.

Till the beginning of the nineteenth century nearly all the energy in the world was produced by the burning of wood. Less than 2% was derived from coal, produced and used mostly in the U.K. Oil consumption began in the 1870s. By the end of the nineteenth century, coal consumption increased greatly. It accounted for half the global energy.

Fossil fuels are formed from the fossilized remains of dead plants and animals by exposure to heat and pressure in the Earths crust over millions of years. When fossil fuels are burnt they produce a lot of energy. Although human beings used fossil fuels in ancient times, the large scale extraction of these fuels began only during the Industrial Revolution. Within a short period of two hundred years we have consumed so much fossil fuel that the available deposits have been practically exhausted.

It is estimated that we will run out of oil, gas and coal by the end of this century. New reserves of fossil fuels are difficult to find and are much smaller than the ones found in ihe past. For this reason fossil fuels are considered Non Renewable sources of energy. They are a finite resource and cannot be replenished as they take millions of years to be formed.

Advantages of Conventional Sources of Energy :

1. The technology to harness energy from fossil fuels is well developed.
2. Fossil fuels are cheap and reliable sources of energy.

Disadvantages of Conventional Sources of Energy :

1. Fossil fuels contain large amounts of carbon and contribute to global warming. They are not green sources of energy and so, pollute the environment.
2. Fossil fuels are nomrenewable sources of energy. The existing reserves will almost certainly be exhausted well before the turn of this century.

II. Non-Conventional Sources of energy (Renewable) :
As conventional sources of energy are exhaustible and also cause pollution, scientists have been trying to find alternative sources of energy which can be easily replenished and do not pollute the environment. Many non conventional sources of energy have been developed during the last few decades. Solar energy, wind energy, nuclear energy, biomass energy, geothermal energy and tidal energy are examples of non conventional energy. While it is true that some of these sources, such as wind energy and biomass energy, were harnessed even in ancient times, the large scale exploitation of these resources in a systematic manner started only towards the end of the nineteenth century.

Advantages of Non – Conventional Sources of Energy :
a) Renewable Resources :
The most promising aspect of non – conventional sources of energy is that they are inexhaustible. Solar energy and wind energy can be harnessed as long as the Sun exists. The vast oceans are a perennial source of wave and tide energy. Uranium, needed for nuclear energy, may be exhausted in 200 years but if extracted from sea water, will last for 60,000 years. Non conventional sources of energy are, therefore, called Renewable sources of energy as they are constantly being replenished and will never get depleted.

b) Non Polluting :
Another remarkable feature of non conventional sources of energy is that they are clean and do not pollute the environment. No waste is produced. Biomass energy releases carbon, no doubt, but the carbon is already present in the organic waste that is burnt to get energy.

c) Cost Effective :
Non-conventional sources of energy are becoming increasingly cost effective with each passing day. Rapid improvements in technology are enabling developing countries to leapfrog and remain on a par with developed countries.

Disadvantages of Non – Conventional Sources of Energy :
a) Safety issues :
Accidents in nuclear power plants can cause leakage of radioactive material. This can have disastrous consequences not only for the workers involved but for residents living several miles away from the plant. The effects of radioactivity on human beings can linger for decades, affecting future generations. The ecosystem too is destroyed.

b) Initial costs of installation of power plants may be high.

Question 2.
Explain the types of Non – Conventional sources of energy.
Answer:
1. Solar Energy :
The Sun is a powerful source of energy. The energy provided by the Sun to the Earth in one hour can meet the energy needs of the entire globe for a year. At present we are able to harness only .0001 % of that energy. Rapid strides in technology are enabling us to transform solar power into thermal and electrical energy efficiently and at reduced costs. The International Energy Agency estimates that by 2050 the production of solar energy will account for nearly a quarter of the world’s total energy use.

Solar power harvests the energy of the Sun by using collector panels to create conditions that can then be turned into a kind of power. Large solar panel fields are often used to gather enough power to charge small substations. Many people use solar systems for heating their house in winter and cooling it in summer. Hot water too is easily obtained.

Advantages of Solar Energy :

1. Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy source.
2. Once a solar panel is installed, solar energy can be produced free of charge.
3. The Sun is practically an infinite source of energy as it will exist for another 5 billion years. In contrast, it is estimated that the world’s oil reserves will last only for another 30 to 40 years.
4. Solar energy causes no pollution. Solar cells do not produce emissions or noise.
5. Very little maintenance is needed to keep solar cells running.

Disadvantages of Solar Energy :

1. The initial cost of setting up solar panels is quite high.
2. Solar cells can generate electricity only during daylight hours.
3. Solar energy production is not feasible in geographical areas which receive less sunlight.
4. Pollution levels in the air can affect the efficiency of solar panels.
5. Solar panels are heavy, so roofs of houses where they are being installed must be strong.

India has set a target of achieving 100 GW of solar power by 2022. Four of the largest solar plants in the world are in India, including the second largest solar park in the world at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The world’s largest solar power plant, Bhadla Solar Park, is being constructed in Rajasthan.

2. Wind Energy :
Wind energy is a form of solar energy. Wind turbines, like windmills, are mounted on towers and convert the kinetic energy in the wind into mechanical power. A generator then converts the mechanical power into electricity. Wind energy harvesting has grown by 25% every year over the last two decades. By 2030 wind power is expected to supply nearly 20% of the world’s electricity.

Advantages of Wind Energy :

1. Wind is a clean, non polluting source of energy.
2. It is an inexhaustible source of energy as it originates in the Sun.
3. It is cheap. The cost of wind power is rapidly decreasing and has fallen by more than 50% over the last few years. In 2018 it fell to a record low of ₹ 2.43 per unit in India.
4. Wind turbines are space efficient. As they do not occupy much space, there is practically no disruption in the usage of the open land in which they are located.
5. Maintenance costs are low.

Disadvantages of Wind Energy :

1. Wind energy is a fluctuating or intermittent source of energy as wind conditions do not remain steady in a place. Wind energy needs to be stored for full utilization.
2. Initial building and installation costs of wind turbines are high.
3. Wind turbines generate noise though newer technology is making them much quieter. A wind turbine located 300 meters from a house generates just about the noise of an air conditioner.
4. It has been claimed that wind turbines are a threat to wild life, especially bats, but these claims are not substantiated.

Denmark is regarded as the birthplace of wind energy harvesting. The Gansu wind farm in China is the world’s largest wind farm, with a target of 20000 MW by 2020. Today wind energy is India’s biggest source of renewable electricity, accounting for nearly three times as much generating capacity as solar. The Muppandal wind farm in Tamilnadu is the largest wind farm in India.

3. Geothermal Energy :
Geothermal energy is the energy that is produced from beneath the Earth. It is clean, sustainable and environment friendly. High temperatures are produced continuously inside the Earth’s crust by the slow delay of radioactive particles. Hot rocks present below the Earth heat up the water that produces steam. The steam is then captured and is used to move turbines. The rotating turbines power the generators.

Geothermal energy can be used by a residential unit or on a large scale by an industrial application. It was used during ancient times for bathing and space heating. The biggest drawback in using geothermal energy is that it can be produced only at select sites throughout the world. The largest group of geothermal power plants in the world is located at The Geysers, a geothermal field in California, United States. Indonesia, Iceland, and Philippines are countries which have very large geothermal plants. The first geothermal plant of India is located in Balrampur district in Chhattisgarh and will become operational shortly.

4. Hydrogen Energy :
Hydrogen is one of the most common elements available on Earth. It is an energy carrier, not an energy source. Hydrogen can store and deliver usable energy, but it does not typically exist by itself in nature and must be produced from compounds that contain it. Once hydrogen is separated from compounds such as water, it can be used as a fuel for generating electricity. Hydrogen is a tremendous source of energy and can be used as a source of fuel to power ships, vehicles, homes, industries, and rockets. It is completely renewable, can be produced on demand from organic waste or water and does not leave any toxic emissions in the atmosphere. However, the cost of producing hydrogen energy is very high. Japan, Germany, Iceland, and U.S.A are countries which are in the forefront in the field of hydrogen energy.

5. Tidal Energy :
Tidal energy uses the rise and fall of tides to convert kinetic energy of incoming and outgoing tides into electrical energy. It is dependent on the gravitational force of the Earth and the moon. Tides are produced when there is increased height of water levels in the ocean. The generation of energy through tidal power is mostly prevalent in coastal areas. Huge investment and limited availability of sites are the major drawbacks of tidal energy. Tidal energy is one of the renewable sources of energy. Large amounts of energy are produced even when tides move at a low speed. South Korea has the largest tidal power plant in the world. France, U.K. and Belgium are other countries which have such plants.

6. Wave Energy :
Wave energy is produced from the movement of waves that are produced in the oceans. Wave energy is renewable, environment friendly and causes no harm to the atmosphere. It can be harnessed along the coastal regions of many countries and can help a country to reduce its dependence on foreign countries for fuel. However, wave energy has its disadvantages. It can damage the marine ecosystem and can also be a source of disturbance to private and commercial vessels. It is highly dependent on wavelength and can also be a source of visual and noise pollution. Sweden, Portugal, Spain and U.K. are some countries which produce wave energy.

7. Hydroelectric Energy :
Hydroelectric energy is produced when the power of moving water is harnessed to produce electricity. The power of moving water has been harnessed for centuries. Initially it was used to run grain mills. Today hydroelectric power is the most widely used non conventional type of energy in the world. It represents about 17% of total electricity production. China is the largest producer of hydroelectricity, loilowed by Canada, Brazil and the united States.

Advantages of Hydroelectric Energy :

1. Hydroelectric energy is a clean fuel source as it is produced from water.
2. Hydropower plants do not pollute the air, unlike power plants that burn fossil fuel.
3. These plants are safe when compared to nuclear plants.
4. They are renewable sources of energy as electricity can be produced as long as water is available.

Disadvantages of Hydroelectric Energy :

1. Hydroelectric energy can be produced only in regions where there is ample water.
2. It is not possible to generate hydroelectricity in the event of drought.
3. The initial cost of building dams and hydroelectric power plants is high.
4. The construction of dams can have a negative impact on the ecology. Thousands of people are displaced and lose their livelihood. The breeding and migratory patterns of fish, like salmon, are affected. Sediments that would go down-stream and replenish the soil are held back by dams. Now-a-days, therefore, environmentalists put up stiff opposition when hydroelectric projects, such as the Narmada Valley Project, are constructed.

8. Biomass Energy :
Biomass energy is produced from organic material that comes from plants and animals. Biomass includes crops, plants, trees, yard clippings, wood chips and animal wastes. Wood accounts for 44% of biomass energy. Chlorophyll present in plants captures the Sun’s energy by converting carbondioxide from the air and water from the ground into carbohydrates through the process of photosynthesis. When the plants are burned, the water and carbondioxide are again released back into the atmosphere. Biomass energy is used for heating and cooking in homes and as fuel in industrial production.

Advantages of Biomass Energy :

1. Biomass energy is a renewable source of energy as biomass plants utilize leftover wood.
2. It is an alternative to fossil fuels.
3. It does not produce carbon. It merely releases the carbon that is already there in the plant or animal waste. In that respect it differs from fossil fuels which generate carbon when burnt.
4. Organic waste of plants and animals is readily available in abundance.
5. Instead of being thrown in landfills and polluting the environment, organic waste is utilized to get energy.
6. Different products can be created from different kinds of organic matter. Methane, biodiesel and other biofuels can be produced. Heat and electricity can be generated with the help of turbines.

Disadvantages of Biomass Energy :

1. Biomass energy is not a clean energy as pollution is created from the burning organic waste. The pollution may be as bad as that caused by the burning of coal.
2. In addition to plant and animal waste, healthy trees are often cut and used for the purpose of producing biomass energy. This can lead to deforestation, displacement of people and destruction of the habitat.
3. Biodiesel products like ethanol are inefficient fuels compared to gasoline. The long term use of ethanol may be harmful to combustion engines.
4. Biomass plants require a lot of space and add to urban congestion when located in cities.
5. The cost of setting up biomass plants is very high.

9. Nuclear Energy :
Nuclear energy is power released through specific nuclear reactions. This power is then converted to electrical power. There are about 30 countries which produce nuclear power. U.S.A produces more electricity through the use of nuclear power than any other nation. It is followed by France, Russia, South Korea, Germany and China. France derives more than 75% of its energy needs from nuclear power.

Advantages of Nuclear Energy :

1. Nuclear energy is cheap.
2. It is a source of clean energy as relatively low amounts of carbon dioxide are released during the nuclear reactions.
3. The technology is readily available.

Disadvantages of Nuclear Energy :

1. There are major concerns about safety. An accident in a nuclear plant can cause leakage of radioactive material which would have disastrous and long-lasting consequences on human beings as well as on the environment. The nuclear plant accident in Fukushima, Japan in 2011 is one such example.
2. Nuclear waste that is generated must be disposed of with extreme care.
3. Nuclear plants can become targets for terrorists.

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 10th Lesson Demand for Energy and Energy Consumption Patterns Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 10th Lesson Demand for Energy and Energy Consumption Patterns

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Write an essay on energy consumption.
Answer:
Energy is defined as power derived from the utilization of physical or chemical resources, especially to provide light and heat or to work machines. The amount of energy consumed in a process or system, or by an organization or society is known as Energy Consumption. Energy consumption can be classified under four economic sectors: Residential, Commercial, Transportation and Industrial.

Energy Consumption Sectors :

1. Residential sector energy is the energy used for domestic purposes. Examples are the use of charcoal, wood, kerosene and LPG for cooking, use of electricity and batteries to run devices such as fans, lights, generators, T.Vs, refrigerators, coolers and computers.
2. Commercial sector energy is the energy used in businesses and organizations. It also includes energy used by municipalities for street lighting, disposal of garbage and supply of water.
3. Transportation sector energy consumption is the energy consumed, mostly as petrol and diesel, by various modes of transport which are used to carry passengers or move goods. Cars, buses, trucks, aeroplanes and ships are the most common modes of transport.
4. Industrial sector energy includes manufacturing, agriculture, construction, forestry and mining. Energy is used in industries for various purposes, such as to produce heat and steam in industrial processes, in brick kilns, to run machinery and for drilling. Every industry uses energy but the maxi-mum energy is consumed by the bulk chemicals industry, the refining industry and mining.

Global Energy Consumption is the total energy used by the entire human civilization at any given point of time. The consumption of energy worldwide has dramatically increased over the last few decades. Since 1800 it has increased by more than 25 times. It is closely associated with two factors :
a) Growth in Population :
As the population of the world increases, so do energy needs. Food production must keep pace with the burgeoning population. More houses, schools and hospitals need to be built. Adequate infrastructure like roads, sewerage and garbage disposal systems must be provided. Large amounts of energy are expended for all these activities.

b) Growth in Per Capita Income :
As standards of living improve, so does energy consumption. If a person’s income increases, he is likely to stop using public transport and will buy his own car. He may now live in a bigger house and buy several kinds of goods and gadgets to keep himself comfortable. His energy consumption, thus, increases.

Energy Scenario in the Future :
Based on current trends of energy consumption, scientists have made predictions about the likely scenario in the future. Some of the observations and predictions made by them are :

• Fast growth in developing economies will drive up global energy demand multifold.
• According to some estimates, the global energy mix basket will be much bigger by 2040 with oil, gas, coal and non-fossil fuels each contributing around a quarter.
• Renewable sources of energy are growing very fast, increasing five-fold and providing around 14% of primary energy.
• With ever-growing population, the demand for oil and natural gas is increasing. Efforts are being made worldwide to scale up the exploitation of the existing reserves.
• Oil and gas together account for over half of the world’s energy.
• Global coal consumption, however, is not increasing and it seems likely that Chinese coal consumption has plateaued.
• The number of electric cars will grow to around 15% of the total number of cars, but because of the much higher intensity with which they are used, they will account for 30% of passenger vehicle kilometers.
• Carbon emissions will continue to rise, signalling the need for a comprehensive set of actions to stem the damage to the environment.
• All of the growth in energy consumption is happening in the fastest emerging economies : China and India.
  • Renewable energy is the fastest-growing energy source, accounting for 40% of the increase in primary energy.
  Demand for oil and other liquid fuels will grow for some years but will gradually slow down and stabilize by the 2030s.
• The availability of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) will increase globally.

Energy Consumption in India :
Energy consumption is greatly increasing in developing countries like India which are experiencing good economic growth. India’s energy consumption is set to grow 4.2% a year by 2035, faster than that of all major economies in the world. India is Asia’s second biggest energy consumer since 2008. In 2015 it overtook Japan as the world’s third largest oil consuming country, after the U.S.A and China. India’s consumption growth of fossil fuels will be the highest by 2035 and it will overtake China as the largest growth market.

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 9th Lesson Global Environmental Issues Textbook Questions and Answers.

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.

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 8th Lesson Natural and Manmade Disasters Textbook Questions and Answers.

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”.

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 7th Lesson Types, Sources and Effects of Pollution Textbook Questions and Answers.

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

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 6th Lesson Development in Telangana Textbook Questions and Answers.

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.

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 5th Lesson Effects of Industrial Development Textbook Questions and Answers.

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.

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 4th Lesson Factors Affecting Development Textbook Questions and Answers.

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:

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 3rd Lesson Population Explosion and its Consequences Textbook Questions and Answers.

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.

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 2nd Lesson Environmental Stakeholders Textbook Questions and Answers.

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.