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Semester 3: Environment, Disaster Management and Climate Change
Concepts & components of Environment, Ecology and ecosystem. Indian traditional Knowledge in Environment and disaster Management.
Concepts of Environment
The environment encompasses all living and non-living things occurring naturally on Earth. It includes ecosystems, geographical features, climate, and the interaction of physical and biological elements.
Components of Environment
The environment consists of several components, including biotic factors (plants, animals, microorganisms), abiotic factors (water, air, soil, temperature), and the interactions among these components.
Ecology and Ecosystems
Ecology is the study of interactions between organisms and their environment. An ecosystem is a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment, which includes producers, consumers, and decomposers.
Indian Traditional Knowledge in Environment and Disaster Management
Indian traditional knowledge encompasses sustainable practices that have been passed down through generations, focusing on biodiversity conservation, water management, crop rotation, and disaster preparedness.
Role of Traditional Practices in Disaster Management
Traditional knowledge systems play a crucial role in disaster management by utilizing local resources, understanding environmental indicators, promoting community resilience, and preserving cultural heritage.
Impact of Climate Change on Environment and Society
Climate change poses significant threats to ecosystems and human society, impacting food security, water availability, and increasing the frequency of natural disasters.
Integration of Traditional Knowledge in Modern Practices
Combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods can enhance disaster management strategies, leading to more effective and culturally sensitive approaches.
Bio-diversity and its conservation, sustainable development.
Bio-diversity and its conservation, sustainable development
Understanding Bio-diversity
Bio-diversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity of species, ecosystems, and genetic variations. It plays a pivotal role in ecosystem stability, resilience, and productivity.
Importance of Bio-diversity
Bio-diversity is crucial for maintaining ecological balance, providing resources for food, medicine, and clean air and water. It supports livelihoods and plays a key role in climate regulation.
Threats to Bio-diversity
Major threats include habitat destruction, pollution, overexploitation of species, climate change, and invasive species. These factors lead to species extinction and ecosystem degradation.
Conservation Strategies
Conservation strategies include protected areas, habitat restoration, sustainable resource management, and the establishment of biodiversity corridors. Community involvement and education are essential for successful conservation efforts.
Sustainable Development and Bio-diversity
Sustainable development emphasizes a harmonious approach to economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection. It aims to meet present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own.
Policies and Legislation
International agreements, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity, and local legislation are vital in promoting bio-diversity conservation. Policies must integrate bio-diversity into all sectors of decision-making.
Role of Communities in Conservation
Community-based conservation involves local populations in managing natural resources, which enhances local stewardship and ensures that conservation efforts align with community needs and knowledge.
Deforestation, soil erosion, soil exhaustion, Desertification, Air pollution, water pollution Disposal of solid waste.
Environment, Disaster Management and Climate Change
Deforestation
Deforestation refers to the large-scale removal of trees from forested areas. It leads to loss of biodiversity, disruption of water cycles, and contributes to climate change by increasing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere. Major causes include agriculture, logging, and urban expansion.
Soil Erosion
Soil erosion is the removal of topsoil by wind, water, or human activity. It can lead to loss of fertile land, reduced agricultural productivity, and sedimentation in waterways. Preventive measures include reforestation, sustainable farming practices, and construction of barriers.
Soil Exhaustion
Soil exhaustion occurs when soil loses its fertility due to constant cropping without adequate replenishment of nutrients. This can result from over-farming, use of chemical fertilizers, and neglect of crop rotation. Sustainable practices and organic farming can help restore soil health.
Desertification
Desertification is the process where fertile land becomes desert as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture. It threatens food security and biodiversity. Combating desertification involves sustainable land management practices and restoration of vegetation.
Air Pollution
Air pollution is the contamination of air by harmful substances, including chemicals and particulate matter. Major sources include vehicle emissions, industrial discharge, and burning of fossil fuels. It poses health risks and contributes to climate change. Solutions include reducing emissions and transitioning to clean energy.
Water Pollution
Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies with harmful pollutants. Sources include industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and sewage discharge. It affects aquatic ecosystems and human health. Prevention involves proper waste management and promoting eco-friendly practices.
Disposal of Solid Waste
Disposal of solid waste involves managing waste from households, industries, and institutions. Poor disposal practices lead to landfills, pollution, and health risks. Effective waste management strategies include recycling, composting, and proper landfill techniques.
Ganga Action Plan, Tiger project, Tehri dam & Narmada Valley project.
Ganga Action Plan, Tiger Project, Tehri Dam & Narmada Valley Project
Ganga Action Plan
Aimed at reducing pollution in the Ganga River. Initiated in 1986, it involves sewage treatment, riverfront development, and public awareness campaigns. Monitoring has led to varying levels of success in improving water quality and ecosystem health.
Tiger Project
Launched in 1973, this conservation initiative focuses on protecting the Bengal tiger and its habitat. It has led to the establishment of various tiger reserves in India, significantly contributing to the increase in tiger population through stringent conservation measures.
Tehri Dam
Constructed on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand, commissioned in 2006. It serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control. While beneficial for energy and water supply, it has faced criticism for ecological impact and displacement of local communities.
Narmada Valley Project
A series of large dam projects on the Narmada River aiming to provide irrigation, hydroelectric power, and drinking water. The project has faced controversy over environmental degradation and displacement of indigenous communities, highlighting the ongoing debate between development and conservation.
Science of Climate Change: Understanding Climate Change; Green House Gases and Global Warming.
Science of Climate Change
Understanding Climate Change
Climate change refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather patterns over time. It has been accelerated by human activities, particularly through the combustion of fossil fuels and deforestation. The impacts of climate change are far-reaching, affecting ecosystems, weather patterns, and sea levels. Key factors contributing to climate change include industrialization, urbanization, and agriculture.
Green House Gases
Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat. The primary greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and water vapor. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and agricultural practices, have increased the concentration of these gases in the atmosphere, leading to the greenhouse effect, which results in global warming.
Global Warming
Global warming is the long-term rise in Earth's average temperature. It is primarily caused by the increased concentration of greenhouse gases formed by human activities. The consequences of global warming include melting ice caps, rising sea levels, extreme weather events, shifts in biodiversity, and impacts on food security. Mitigation efforts include transitioning to renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable land use practices.
Global Climatic Assessment – IPCC, Impacts of Climate Change, National Action Plan on Climate Change.
Global Climatic Assessment – IPCC, Impacts of Climate Change, National Action Plan on Climate Change
Global Climatic Assessment and IPCC
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the leading international body for assessing climate change. Established in 1988, it provides scientific information to policymakers. The assessment reports consist of a comprehensive summary of the state of knowledge on climate change including its impacts, adaptation, and mitigation strategies.
Impacts of Climate Change
Climate change has wide-ranging effects on weather patterns, sea levels, and ecosystems. Major impacts include rising temperatures, increased frequency of extreme weather events, changes in precipitation patterns, and melting glaciers. These changes lead to challenges in agriculture, health, water resources, and biodiversity.
National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
The NAPCC is India's strategic framework to tackle climate change. Launched in 2008, it includes eight national missions focusing on different areas such as solar energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and water conservation. The aim is to enhance the resilience of vulnerable sectors and promote sustainable development.
Disasters, Hazards, Risk, Vulnerability, Type of Disasters, Disaster Management, Disaster Management Cycle.
Disasters, Hazards, Risk, Vulnerability, Type of Disasters, Disaster Management, Disaster Management Cycle
Disasters
Disasters are sudden, catastrophic events that cause significant disruption to the functioning of a community or a society, leading to human, material, economic, or environmental losses.
Hazards
Hazards refer to potential threats that can cause harm or damage. They can be natural (like earthquakes and floods) or human-made (such as industrial accidents). Understanding hazards is crucial for risk assessment.
Risk
Risk entails the likelihood of a hazard causing a disaster, considering both the vulnerability of the affected community and the capacity to withstand and recover from such events.
Vulnerability
Vulnerability is the degree to which a community or an individual is susceptible to harm when exposed to hazards. Factors such as socio-economic status, education, and environmental conditions contribute to vulnerability.
Types of Disasters
Disasters can be categorized into various types: natural disasters (earthquakes, hurricanes, floods), technological disasters (chemical spills), and complex emergencies (conflicts leading to humanitarian crises).
Disaster Management
Disaster management encompasses the processes of planning, preparation, response, and recovery from disasters. It aims to minimize the impact of disasters on communities and enhance resilience.
Disaster Management Cycle
The disaster management cycle includes several phases: mitigation (prevention), preparedness (planning and training), response (immediate effects), and recovery (long-term rebuilding). This cyclical approach is essential for effective management of disasters.
Flood, Drought, Cyclone, Earthquake, Tsunami, Landslide, Chemical and Nuclear Disasters. Do’s and Don’ts During Disasters.
Flood, Drought, Cyclone, Earthquake, Tsunami, Landslide, Chemical and Nuclear Disasters. Do's and Don'ts During Disasters
Flood
1. Flooding occurs when water overflows onto normally dry land, often due to heavy rainfall or melting snow. 2. Preparedness includes creating an emergency kit and having an evacuation plan. 3. During a flood, move to higher ground and stay away from floodwaters.
Drought
1. Drought is an extended period of deficient rainfall relative to the statistical multi-year average for a region. 2. Conservation of water resources is crucial, including efficient irrigation practices. 3. In times of drought, avoid unnecessary water usage and seek assistance from local authorities.
Cyclone
1. A cyclone is a rapidly rotating storm system characterized by a center of low pressure. 2. Monitoring weather updates and having an emergency kit can save lives. 3. During a cyclone, seek shelter in a sturdy building and stay away from windows.
Earthquake
1. Earthquakes result from tectonic plate movements and can cause significant damage. 2. Teaching drop, cover, and hold on drills is essential for preparedness. 3. After an earthquake, check for injuries and be aware of possible aftershocks.
Tsunami
1. Tsunamis are large sea waves caused by underwater disturbances such as earthquakes. 2. Recognizing warning signs such as rapid water withdrawal is important for safety. 3. During a tsunami, move to higher ground immediately and do not return until authorities declare it safe.
Landslide
1. Landslides occur when there is a sudden and fast movement of soil and rock down a slope. 2. Monitoring slope stability can help in preparation. 3. If a landslide occurs, seek immediate safety away from the path of the slide.
Chemical Disasters
1. Chemical disasters can occur due to accidents or leaks in facilities handling hazardous materials. 2. Understanding Safety Data Sheets can provide information on handling chemicals safely. 3. In the event of a chemical release, evacuate the area and avoid contact with the substance.
Nuclear Disasters
1. Nuclear disasters often result from reactor failures or radioactive material leaks. 2. Knowledge of emergency communication and evacuation routes is vital. 3. In the event of a nuclear incident, seek shelter indoors and stay updated through official channels.
Do's and Don'ts During Disasters
1. Do stay informed about potential risks and prepare an emergency kit. 2. Do establish a communication plan with family members. 3. Don't panic and make hasty decisions during a disaster.
