EVS 142 PDF - Environmental Studies Notes

ENVIRONMENT The word Environment is derived from French word environner, means to encircle or surrounding. So we can say Our surroundings is the environment In other words, circumstances and conditions that surround an organism or group of organisms or the social or cultural conditions t...

ENVIRONMENT The word Environment is derived from French word environner, means to encircle or surrounding. So we can say Our surroundings is the environment In other words, circumstances and conditions that surround an organism or group of organisms or the social or cultural conditions that affect an individual or community is called Environment. or The sum of physical, chemical, biological and social components that directly or indirectly influence the organisms is called environment. 1  As per the Environment Protection Act 1986 Environment Can also be defined as - Environment includes water, air and land and the inter- relationship which exists among and between water, air and land, and human beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-organism and property. 2  Rapid Industrialization, development, population explosion have damaged the ecological balance. Higher class of people increase pollution level through their standard of living and the poor are destroying the environment in order to survive by cutting down forests and letting their livestock to overgraze the grasslands. It is not that people are not concerned about the environment and out of this realization the concept of Environmental Studies has emerged. 3  Environmental Studies is the scientific study of the environmental system and the status of its inherent or induced changes on organisms. It includes not only the study of physical and biological characters of the environment but also the social and cultural factors and the impact of man on the environment. The main purpose of environmental education is that, individuals and social groups should acquire awareness and knowledge, develop attitudes, skills and abilities and participate in solving real life environmental problems in order to improve the quality of life. 4 Important meetings/conferences for Environmental Education UN Conference on the Human Environment (1972) World Commission on Environment and Development (1987) United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (1992) General Assembly Special Session on the Environment (1997) World Summit on Sustainable Development (2002) UN Conference on Sustainable Development (2012) UN Sustainable Development Summit (2015) 5  The first United Nations conference on “Human Environment "was held at Stockholm (Sweden) in June 1972 and after the conference 5th June was declared as “World Environment Day”. International workshop on Environmental Education was held in Belgrade, Serbia in 1975. First Intergovernmental conference on Environmental Education was held in Tbilisi, Georgia (former USSR) in 1977. 6  In India, National seminar on higher environmental education was held in New Delhi in 1979 followed by a five day global forum on environmental education for sustainable development in 1993 at New Delhi. An International conference on Environmental Education was also held at New Delhi in December 1982, stressing the need for formal as well as informal environmental education right from childhood. 7  An United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) was held at Rio-de-Janerio (Brazil) in 1992 giving the stress on Environmental education and Agenda 21. it is also popularly known as Earth Summit. Kyoto Protocol came in 1992 by UNFCC (United Nations Framework on climate Change) for Global warming. Montreal Protocol came in 16 September 1987 for protection of Ozone layer depletion. In India Hon’ble Supreme Court mandated compulsory environmental education at every level in the year 2003. 8  TYPES OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION There are two types of environmental education – 1. Formal Environmental Education – It includes the environmental education provided in a systematic way from primary schooling level to higher university level. 2. Non formal environmental education – it includes the environmental education provided through Nukad natak, lecture by society leaders, awareness programs, rallies, advertisements by celebrities and competitions viz. debates, quiz, 9 poster making etc. Goals, Objectives and Aims of Environmental Education The main goal Environmental Education is to develop concern and awareness among world population about the total environment and its associated problems. Other goals of environmental education are: 1. To improve the quality of environment 2. To create awareness among the people on environmental problems and conservations 3. To create an atmosphere so that people can participate in decision-making and develop the capabilities to evaluate the developmental programs 10 The Objectives of Environmental Education are: 1.Awareness- to develop awareness and sensitivity towards the environment and related problems. 2. Knowledge- to gain a variety of experiences and acquire basic understanding of the environment and its associated problems. 3. Attitudes – to acquire a set of values and feeling of concern for the environment and the motivation for actively participating in environmental improvement and protection. 11 4. Skills – to acquire skills for identifying and solving environmental problems. 5. Participation - to provide social groups and individuals with an opportunity to be actively involved at all levels working towards the resolution of environmental problems. 12  Awareness Participation Knowledge Environmental Education Skills Attitudes 13  Aims of Environmental Education 1. To provide different groups of people as well as graduates in a variety of professional fields with the knowledge needed to develop a sense of responsibility towards the environment and the rational utilization of its riches. 2. To make use of these knowledge and skills to preserve, conserve and utilize the environment in a sustainable manner for the benefit of present and future generations. 14  Branches of Environmental Education 1. Environmental Science – It deals with the scientific study of Environment. 2. Environmental Engineering – It deals with the application of scientific study by technical means/ technical study of environmental processes. 3. Environmental Management – The study about policy formation and management of environment related issues. 15  Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Education 1. Environment belongs to all the living beings so it is important for all. Every person in the world is affected by environmental issues like global warming, depletion of ozone layer, dwindling forest, energy resources, loss of global biodiversity etc. 2. Environment study deals with the analysis of the processes in water, air, land, soil and organisms which leads to pollute or degrade environment. It helps us for establishing standard, for safe, clean and healthy natural ecosystem. 3. Environment deals with issues like safe and clean drinking water, hygienic living conditions and clean and fresh air, fertility of land, healthy food and 16  Life Sciences Physical Sciences Environmental Studies Engineering Mathematics and Computer Science Social Sciences 17  4. Environmental studies educate the students to appreciate the complexity of environmental issues and citizens and experts in many fields. By studying environmental science, students may develop an idea about the interdisciplinary and methodological knowledge in the environmental field which will enable them to facilitate the definition and solution of various environmental problems. 5. It is essentially a multidisciplinary approach and its components include Biology, Geology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Sociology, Health Sciences, Anthropology, Economics, Statistics and Philosophy. 18 NEED FOR PUBLIC AWARENESS Earth’s natural resources are decreasing due to increase in human activities. Due to mismanaged practices quality of air, water and soil are depleting, which is causing health hazard to humans. Increasing problems like global warming, ozone depletion, desertification and climate change are the result of various human activities. Therefore top priority should be given to environmental awareness. 19  We often feel that managing all the resources are Government’s responsibility but if we go on endangering our environment, there is no way by which the Government can perform all these clean-up functions. For any disease, prevention is better than cure. In the same way, to prevent ill-effects on our environment we should change our own actions, which is economically more viable than cleaning up the environment once it is damaged. Individually we can play a major role in environment management and can reduce wasting natural resources. 20  This can only be made possible through mass public awareness. Printing and electronic media like newspapers, radio, television, can strongly influence public. If each of us feel strongly about the environment, the press and media will further add to our efforts. Politicians in a democracy always respond positively to a strong publicly supported movement. We are living on spaceship called earth with a limited supply of resources. Each of us is responsible for spreading this message to as many people as possible regarding conservation of natural resource is concerned. 21  Scope of Environment Natural resources: their conservation and management. Ecology and biodiversity. Environmental pollution and control. Social issues in relation to development and environment. Stabilization of human population and environment. In the recent years, the scope of environmental studies has expanded dramatically all over the world. Several career options have emerged in this field that are broadly categorized as: 22 ❑R&D in Environment: Environmental Analysis Ecosystem Analysis Community Studies Environmental Degradation Environmental Monitoring Impact Assessment and development Environmental Health & Safety 23 ❑Green Advocacy: ▪ Environmental laws and legislation is concerned for creating awareness in general public regarding environmental problems around them through formal and informal education. ▪ With increasing emphasis on implementing various acts and laws related to environment, need for environmental lawyers has emerged, who should be able to pled the cases related to water and air pollution, forest and wildlife etc. 24  Green Marketing Green marketing refers to the process of selling products and/or services based on their environmental benefits. Such a product or service may be environmentally friendly in itself or produced in an environmentally friendly way, such as: Being manufactured in a sustainable fashion Not containing toxic materials or ozone-depleting substances Able to be recycled and/or is produced from recycled materials Being made from renewable materials (such as bamboo, etc.) Not making use of excessive packaging Being designed to be repairable and not "throwaway" 25  Ecomark: India launched ‘ECOMARK’ as a voluntary eco labelling scheme to encourage industry to adopt ecofriendly production methods and consumers to pursue sustainable consumption patterns. The central pollution control board defined the eco labelling criteria for the 14 products like soaps and detergents.  Cosmetics and aerosols propellants, food items and additives, paper, architectural paints. Powder coating, lubricating oils, packaging, wood substitutes, plastic and textiles. Batteries, electrical and electronic goods and recently for leather and fire extinguishers. Ecomark certification is done by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). ISO 14001 ISO 14001 is an internationally agreed standard that sets out the requirements for an environmental management system. It helps organizations improve their environmental performance through more efficient use of resources and reduction of waste, gaining a competitive advantage and the trust of stakeholders. An environmental management system helps organizations identify, manage, monitor and control their environmental issues in a holistic manner. Like other ISO management systems, it uses a High-Level Structure. This means it can be integrated easily into any existing ISO management system. It also includes the need for continual improvement of an organization’s systems and approach to environmental concerns. 28  Demonstrate compliance with current and future statutory and regulatory requirements Increase leadership involvement and engagement of employees Improve company reputation and the confidence of stakeholders through strategic communication 29 ❑Green Media: Environmental awareness can be spread amongst masses through mass media like television, radio, newspaper, magazines, advertisement etc. and also through social sites like facebook twitters etc. For which environmentally educated people are required. 30 31 32 33  Environmental Organisations There some Nodal agencies which look after various activities related to Environmental conservation in India.  MoEFCC (Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change) - It is the main body which undertake the different environmental education programs and award various fellowships. MoEFCC is the nodal agency in the administrative structure of the Central Government for the planning, promotion, co- ordination and overseeing the implementation of India's environmental and forestry policies and programmes. The broad objectives of the MoEFCC are: 1. Conservation and survey of flora, fauna, forests and wildlife Prevention and control of pollution 2. Afforestation and regeneration of degraded areas 3. Protection of the environment and 4. Ensuring the welfare of animals Various awareness programmes - National Environment awareness campaign (NEAC) in 1986 by MoEFCC. Centre for Environment Education (CEE) CPR Environment Education Centre (CPR-CEE) Paryavaran Vahini ( Environmental Brigade) was made in1992 Eco- Clubs Production of Film and Audio- Visuals Awards & Fellowships Natural History Museum  B. MoJS- Ministry of Jal Shakti - Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD & GR): The Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD & GR) is mainly responsible for laying down policy guidelines and programmes for the development, conservation and management of water as a national resource. It is also responsible for an overall national perspective of water planning and coordination in relation to diverse uses of water; water laws and legislations; addressing inter-State and trans-boundary water issues; bilateral and multi-lateral cooperation; and general policy guidelines and programmes for assessment, development and regulation of the country’s water resources. DoWR, RD & GR is also responsible for water quality assessment; rejuvenation of river Ganga and its tributaries and also conservation and abatement of pollution in other rivers. C. MNRE – Ministry of New & Renewable Energy: The broad aim of the Ministry is to develop and deploy new and renewable energy for supplementing the energy requirements of the country. It was known as - a. Commission for Additional Sources of Energy (CASE) in 1981, b. Department of Non-Conventional Energy Sources (DNES) in 1982, c. Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources (MNES) in 1992, d. Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources (MNES) renamed as Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in 2006. D. Ministry of Rural Development: Being the nodal Ministry for most of the development and welfare activities in the rural areas, the Ministry of Rural Development plays a pivotal role in the overall development strategy of the country. The vision and mission of the Ministry is sustainable and inclusive growth of rural India through a multipronged strategy for eradication of poverty by increasing livelihoods opportunities, providing social safety net and developing infrastructure for growth. There are two type of Organizations associated with environment conservation, they are - 1. Government Organizations: Run and controlled by Central and State Governments. 2. Non-Government Organizations : A non-governmental organization (NGO) is an organization that is neither a part of a government nor a conventional for-profit business. It Usually set up by ordinary citizens, and may be funded by governments, foundations, businesses, or private persons. NGOs are highly diverse groups of organizations engaged in a wide range of activities, and take different forms in different parts of the world. Some may have charitable status, while others may be registered for tax exemption based on recognition of social purposes. Others may be fronts for political, religious or other interest. 1. Government Organizations: i.BSI (Botanical Survey of India) - Established in 1890 at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Calcutta. In 1952, plans were made to recognize the BSI and formulate its objectives. The BSI currently has nine regional centers. ZSI (Zoological Survey of India) – Established in 1916. It’s mandate was to do a symmetric survey of fauna in India. Its origins were collections based at the Indian Museum at Calcutta, which was established in 1875. It has done an enormous amount of work on taxonomy and ecology. It currently operates from 16 regional centers. iii. WII (Wild life Institute of India) – Established in 1982 in Dehradun. Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is an internationally acclaimed Institution, which offers training program, academic courses and advisory in wildlife research and management. iv. FRI (Forest Research Institute) - Forest Research Institute, Dehradun begin as Forest School established in 1878. Initially named as Imperial Forest Research Institute. In 1906 it is renamed as FRI. In 1991 it was recognized as Deemed University. v. CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) - The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), statutory organisation, was constituted in September, 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. Further CPCB was entrusted with the powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. It serves as a field formation and also provides technical services to the Ministry of Environment Forests and Climate Change of the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Principal Functions of the CPCB, as spelt out in the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 are (i) to promote cleanliness of streams and wells in different areas of the States by prevention, control and abatement of water pollution. (ii) to improve the quality of air and to prevent, control or abate air pollution in the country. The National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP) has been established by CPCB with objectives to determine the present air quality status and trends and to control and regulate pollution from industries and other source to meet the air quality standards. It also provides background air quality data needed for industrial sitting and towns planning. Water Quality Monitoring (WQM) and Surveillance : The parliament of India in its wisdom enacted the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 with a view to maintaining and restoring wholesomeness of our water bodies. One of the mandates of CPCB is to collect, collate and disseminate technical and statistical data relating to water pollution.  Indian NGO 1. CEE (Centre for Environment Education)- Established in August 1984 as a Centre of Excellence by the MOEFCC. It’s headquarter is in Ahmedabad and has a mandate to promote environmental awareness nation wide. CEE is affiliated to the Nehru Foundation for Development and inherits the rich multi- disciplinary resource base and varied experience of Nehru Foundation for Development. CEE develops innovative programmes and educational material, and builds capacity in the field of education and communication for sustainable development. It undertakes demonstration projects in education, communication and development that endorse attitudes, strategies and technologies that are environmentally sustainable. 2. CSE (Centre for Science & Environment):The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) is a public interest research and advocacy organisation based in New Delhi. Ms. Sunita Narain is the Director General of CSE. 3. BNHS (Bombay Natural History Society): Established in 1883. It is wildlife research organization situated in Mumbai. It’s mission is conservation of Nature, primarily Biological Diversity through action based on Research, Education and Public Awareness 4. Tarun Bharat Sangh: Established in Jaipur in 1975, Tarun Bharat Sangh was initiated by a group of professors & students of University of Rajasthan. TBS is working for the empowerment of communities and watershed management. Mr. Rajendra Singh (popular as Waterman of India), Chairman of TBS is the winner of Stockholm Water Prize’ 2015; He has been honoured by Asia’s most prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award’ 2001, for Community Leadership. Along with India’s most prestigious Jamnalal Bajaj Award’ 2005. 5. Uttarakhand Seva Nidhi Almora: The Uttarakhand Seva Nidhi is a public charitable trust founded in 1967. In 1987 it was appointed a nodal agency by the Department of Education, Ministry of Human Resources Development, Government of India to undertake locale-specific environmental education programmes both in rural schools and villages in the hill districts of Uttarakhand. Subsequently, a research and resource centre, the Uttarakhand Environmental Education Centre (UEEC), was set up in 1993, also with support from the Department of Education. As activities continued to increase, a separate organisation, the Uttarakhand Seva Nidhi Paryavaran Shiksha Sansthan (USNPSS), a registered society, was set up in 1999 to handle all the environmental activities of the Nidhi.  International Organizations 1. UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural organization): It was established in 1945 in Paris, France. UNESCO strives to build networks among nations that enable this kind of solidarity, by: a. Mobilizing for education: so that every child, boy or girl, has access to quality education as a fundamental human right and as a prerequisite for human development. b. Building intercultural understanding: through protection of heritage and support for cultural diversity. UNESCO created the idea of World Heritage to protect sites of outstanding universal value. c. Pursuing scientific cooperation: such as early warning systems for tsunamis or trans-boundary water management agreements, to strengthen ties between nations and societies. d. Protecting freedom of expression: an essential condition for democracy, development and human dignity. 2. UNEP (United Nation Environmental Programme): UNEP was Established in 1972 in UN General assembly after first International conference on Human Environment. It is the global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. It’s mission is "To provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations." 3. IPCC (Intergovernmental panel on climate change): The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the international body for the assessment of climate change. It was established by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1988 to provide the world with a clear scientific view on the current state of knowledge in climate change and its potential environmental and socio-economic impacts. In the same year, the UN General Assembly endorsed the action by WMO and UNEP in jointly establishing the IPCC. The IPCC is a scientific body under the auspices of the United Nations (UN). It reviews and assesses the most recent scientific, technical and socio-economic information produced worldwide relevant to the understanding of climate change. It does not conduct any research nor does it monitor climate related data or parameters. 4. IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature): Headquarter situated in Switzerland established in 1948, in Fontainebleau, France UCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature, helps the world find pragmatic solutions to our most pressing environment and development challenges. IUCN’s work focuses on valuing and conserving nature, ensuring effective and equitable governance of its use, and deploying nature-based solutions to global challenges in climate, food and development. IUCN supports scientific research, manages field projects all over the world, and brings governments, NGOs, the UN and companies together to develop policy, laws and best practice. IUCN is the world’s oldest and largest global environmental organisation, with more than 1,200 government and NGO Members and almost 11,000 volunteer experts in some 160 countries. IUCN’s work is supported by over 1,000 staff in 45 offices and hundreds of partners in public, NGO and private sectors around the world. 5. UNDP (United Nation Development Programme): The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations global development network. It established in 1965, Headquartered in New York City, UNDP advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. It provides expert advice, training, and grant support to developing countries, with increasing emphasis on assistance to the least developed countries. UNDP operates in 177 countries, working with nations on their own solutions to global and national development challenges. 6. WHO (World health Organization): The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations that is concerned with international public health. It was established on 7 April 1948, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. WHO support countries as they coordinate the efforts of multiple sectors of the government and partners including bilateral and multilaterals, funds and foundations, civil society organizations and private sector to attain their health objectives and support their national health policies and strategies.  International NGO 1. WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature): The World Wide Fund for Nature is an international non- governmental organization founded on April 29, 1961, and is working on issues regarding the conservation, research and restoration of the environment. It was formerly named the World Wildlife Fund, which remains its official name in Canada and the United States. It is the world's largest conservation organization with over 5 million supporters worldwide, working in more than 100 countries, supporting around 1,300 conservation and environmental projects. 2. Greenpeace: It is a non-governmental environmental organization with offices in over 40 countries and with an international coordinating body in Amsterdam, in Netherlands. Greenpeace states its goal is to "ensure the ability of the Earth to nurture life in all its diversity”. and focuses its campaigning on world wide issues such as climate change, deforestation, overfishing, commercial whaling, genetic engineering, and anti-nuclear issues. 3. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals): It is an American animal rights organization based in Norfolk, Virginia. Founded: March 1980 Nonprofit category: Animal related Alliance/Advocacy Organizations PETA focuses its attention on the four areas in which the largest numbers of animals suffer the most intensely for the longest periods of time: on factory farms, in the clothing trade, in laboratories, and in the entertainment industry. It also work on a variety of other issues, including the cruel killing of beavers, birds, and other “pests” as well as cruelty to domesticated animals. 3. Fauna & Flora International (FFI): Formerly known as Fauna and Flora Preservation Society, is an international conservation charity and NGO. FFI was originally founded in 1903 as the Society for the Preservation of the Wild Fauna of the Empire by a group of British naturalists and American statesmen in Africa. It later became the Fauna Preservation Society, before being renamed Fauna and Flora Preservation Society in 1981. 4. Conservation International: This organization headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. The organization's intent is to protect nature. From its origins as it is dedicated to protecting tropical biodiversity, CI has evolved into an organization that works with governments, scientists, charitable foundations, and business.  ENVIRONMENTALISTS An environmentalist broadly supports the goals of the environmental movement, "a political and ethical movement that seeks to improve and protect the quality of the natural environment through changes to environmentally harmful human activities". India have good number of environmentalist who worked a lot for the environment and also done remarkable work for the conservation of nature. There are a number of environmentalists who initiated a number of environmental conservation movements and are recognized globally for their work. The details of some famous environmentalist are as follows- 1. Smt. Indira Gandhi: Indira Gandhi was born on November 19, 1917. In her political career, Poverty and Environment had been the two most important issues always on her agenda. Ms. Indira Gandhi as the Prime Minister of India participated in the historic U.N. Conference on Human Environment at Stockholm in 1972. During her tenure by 1969, a bill, the Prevention of Water Pollution, had been introduced. Ultimately, a modified version, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, passed in 1974. The Department of Environment, created in 1980, performed an oversight role for the central government. Project Tiger is a Tiger conservation programme launched in 1973 by the Government of India by the Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Wild life Protection Act came in 1974 and Forest Act enacted in 1980 under her tenure In 1981, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was passed. After her death during the Rajiv Gandhi tenure as Prime Minister the historic Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, was passed by the Parliament designed to act as umbrella legislation on the environment. 2. Sunderlal Bahuguna: Born in January 9, 1927, Sunderlal Bahuguna is a noted Garhwali environmentalist, Chipko movement leader and a follower of Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of Non- violence and Satyagraha. Sunderlal Bahuguna has contributed globally through awareness raising measures concerning deforestation, the negative effects of liquor on mountain life, and the health of the Ganges River. Through his work, Sunderlal Bahuguna has become synonymous with the Chipko movement. He was one of the first people to point out the fallacies of judgment when creating the Tehri Dam. Awarded with PadmaVibhushan in 2009. 3. Chandi Prasad Bhatt: was born in 1934. He is an Indian environmentalist and social activist, who founded Dasholi Gram Swarajya Sangh (DGSS) in Gopeswar, Uttarkhand in 1964. This DGSS later became a mother- organization to the Chipko Movement, in which he was one of the pioneers, and for which he was awarded the Ramon Magsawsay Award for Community Leadership in 1982, followed by the Padma Bhushan in 2005. Today he is known for his work on Subaltern Social Ecology, and considered one of India's first modern environmentalist. In 2013, he was the recipient of the most prestigious Gandhi Peace Prize. 5. Dr. G.D. Agarwal: He was Born in 1932 in Muzaffarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh, Presently he resides in Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh. He is now a days known as Swami Gyan Swarup Sanand. He did his education in Civil Engineering (Env. Engg.) from IIT Roorkee and University of California at Berkeley. He worked as Environmental Engineer in Central Pollution Control Board, and also served Civil and Environmental Engineering Department IIT Kanpur. He is well known for Stopping construction of dams on the Bhagirathi River in 2009 through Fasting. 6. Medha Patekar: (Born 1 December 1954) is an Indian social activist and social reformer turned politician. She is the founder member of Narmada Bachao Andolan and was National Convener of National Alliance of People's Movements (NAPM). She was a representative to the World Commission on Dams, to research the environmental, social and economic impacts of the development of large dams globally. National Alliance of People's Movements, the organisation she leads, filed a public interest litigation in the Bombay High Court against Lavasa (a private, planned city being built near Pune). 7. Dr. Vandana Shiva: (born 5 November 1952 in Dehradun) She is a Philosopher, environmentalist, author, professional speaker, social activist. She got Right Livelihood Award in 1993, Sydney Peace prize in 2010 and Fukuoka Asian Culture Prize in 2012. She is a critics of GM Crops and trained the farmers to cultivate the crops through traditional methods and get good yield. She founded Research Foundation for Science, Technology and Ecology, under Navdanya at Dehradun. 8. Sunita Narain: (Born in 1961) She is currently the director general of the Centre and the director of the Society for Environmental Communications and publisher of the fortnightly magazine, Down To Earth. In 2005 she was awarded the Padma Shri by the Indian government. She has also received the Stockholm Water Prize in 2005 for work on rainwater harvesting and for its policy influence in building paradigms for community based water management. 9. Rajendra Singh: (born 6 August 1959) is a well-known water conservationist from Alwar, Rajasthan. He is known as "waterman of India",. He got the Stockholm Water Prize, an award known as "the Nobel Prize for water", in 2015. Previously, he won the Ramon Magsaysay Award for community leadership in 2001 for his pioneering work in community based efforts in water harvesting and water management. He runs an NGO called 'Tarun Bharat Sangh' (TBS), which was founded in 1975. 10. M. C. Mehta: Born on October 12, 1946 in district Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir. His career as a Supreme Court lawyer began in 1983, when he migrated to Delhi. In 1984, he began focusing on environmental litigation. He has been conferred the Governor's Gold Medal, the Goldman Environmental Prize, considered on alternative Noble Prize in USA and Europe, the UN's Global 500 Award for 1993 and above all the Magsaysay Award for 1997." 11. Rachel Carson: Rachel Carson is regarded by many as the founder of the modern environmental movement. Her most famous work, however, was 1962's controversial Silent Spring, in which she described the devastating effect that pesticides were having on the environment. In 1980, Carson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. 12. Wangari Maathai: Wangari Muta Maathai was a Kenyan environmental and political activist. She got Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 and so many other awards for her work for environmental conservation. 13. Al Gore: Albert Arnold "Al" Gore, Jr. is an American politician, advocate and philanthropist, who served as the 45th Vice President of the United States, under President Bill Clinton. He also got Nobel Peace prize in 2007.  ATMOSPHERE The composition of gases which envelops the earth’s is called atmosphere. It is a thin layer of gases separating earth from the outer space. Earth is only the planet with an atmosphere that support life. Composition & properties of atmosphere: on the basis of the percent contribution gases are divided into three categories – A. Major Gases: N2–78.08 % and O2 – 20.94% B. Minor Gases: Ar – 0.93% and CO2 - 0.039% C. Trace Gases: like CH4, Ne, He etc. 80  Role and Importance of Atmosphere: 1. It absorb harmful radiations comes from outer space 2. It maintain the heat balance on the earth surface 3. It regulates the climatic conditions and recycle water and gases. 4. It also absorbs various harmful gases emitted from human activities. 5. Atmosphere protects the earth from UV rays. 81  Major constituents of dry air, by volume Gas Volume(A) Name Formula in ppmv(B) in % Nitrogen N2 780,840 78.084 Oxygen O2 209,460 20.946 Argon Ar 9,340 0.9340 Carbon dioxide CO2 397 0.0397 Neon Ne 18.18 0.001818 Helium He 5.24 0.000524 Methane CH4 1.79 0.000179 Not included in above dry atmosphere: Water vapor(C) H2O 10–50,000(D) 0.001%–5%(D) (A) volume fraction is equal to mole fraction for ideal gas only, (B) ppmv: parts per million by volume (C) Water vapor is about 0.25% by mass over full atmosphere (D) Water vapor strongly varies locally 82  Elemental Properties of the Atmosphere According to the geographical range of influence, the atmospheric scales may be classified as ▪Macroscale: ▪Mesoscale ▪Microscale Other elemental properties are- ▪Heat ▪Greenhouse Effects ▪Evaporation-Condensation Cycle ▪Conduction ▪Convection ▪Pressure ▪Wind ▪Moisture ▪Relative Humidity 83  Structure of Atmosphere Earth’s atmosphere is divided in following layers. a. Troposphere b. Stratosphere c. Mesosphere d. Thermosphere or Ionosphere e. Exosphere The transition boundary of all sphere are Tropopause, Stratopause, Mesopause and Thermopause. 84 a. Troposphere: It is the lowermost part of the atmosphere and contains 80% of total mass of the atmosphere. It lies between 0 -12 km from the equator and average temperature varies from 15°C to -56°C. Changing climate only exist in this part of atmosphere. b. Stratosphere: It lies above the troposphere (between12-50 km) and also known as Ozonosphere as it contains Ozone layer. Temperature increase (-56 to -2°C) with height. 85 c. Mesosphere: It lies from 50 km to 85 km above the stratosphere. In this region temperature decreases (21- to -92°C) with height and no chemical species except some migratory O3 molecules near stratopause is present in the region. d. Thermosphere: This is the outermost layer of atmosphere lies from 85 km to 500 km also known as Ionosphere. Ions of N and O are present in the sphere and temperature increase with height (more than 1200°C). e. Exosphere: It is the outer opening of Atmosphere to the space. 86  The hydrosphere is the part of the earth that contains water or The hydrosphere is the liquid water component of the Earth. It includes the oceans, seas, lakes, ponds, rivers and streams. The hydrosphere covers about 70% of the surface of the Earth and is the home for many plants and animals. 87  THE EARTH’S HYDROSPHERE: Distribution of Water on Earth SNo. Type of water Volume Percent 1. Oceans 7 Seas (Salt 1350 x 1015 m3 97.3 water) 2. Cryosphere 29 X 1015 m3 2.1 (Glaciers & Polar ice) 3. Underground (Aquifers) 8.4 x 1015 m3 0.6 4. Lakes & Rivers 0.2 x 1015 m3 0.01 5. Atmosphere 0.013 x 10 m3 0.001 6 Biosphere 0.0006 x 1015 m3 0.00004 88 The Hydrologic Cycle Water cycle is a continuous process to maintain the water on the earth surface. In water cycle water moves in between atmosphere and earth in a cyclic mode. Water cycle can also be defined as the movement of water from earth to atmosphere and return back to earth. It involves the process of evaporation and transpiration from the earth surface, condensation and cloud formation in atmosphere and return back by the process of precipitation. Water precipitate in different forms from the atmosphere. This cycle is important to make the water budget on the earth. 89 The Lithosphere The lithosphere (from the Greek [lithos] for "rocky" + [sphaira] for "sphere") is the rigid outermost shell of a rocky planet. It comprises the crust and the portion of the upper mantle that behaves elastically on time scales of thousands of years or greater. 90  Earth's Lithosphere In the Earth, the lithosphere includes the crust and the uppermost mantle, which constitute the hard and rigid outer layer of the Earth. The lithosphere is underlain by the asthenosphere, the weaker, hotter, and deeper part of the upper mantle. The uppermost part of the lithosphere that chemically reacts to the atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere through the soil forming process is called the pedosphere. 91  4. The 6-35 km (4-21 miles) thick lithosphere. Earth's crust. 3. The 2900 km (1.800 miles) thick Mantle layer formed from rapidly flowing magma. 2. The 2000 km (1,250 miles) thick outer core containing such molten heavy metals as nickel and iron. 1. The 1370 km (851 miles) thick inner core, which is in a crystalline state because of the influence of heat and high pressure. 92  The Crust It is the outermost layer of the earth. It has a depth of about 32 to 40 km. It is the thinnest layer Uppermost layer of the crust is known as SIAL. It is composed mainly of silicon and aluminum. The bottom layer of the crust is called SIMA. It is made mostly of silicon and magnesium. 93 Crust are further divided into two major parts: Continental crust It is about 32 kilometers thick, made mainly of granite rocks. The elevated portion of the crust. Oceanic Crust The ocean bed, it is about seven kilometers thick and made mainly of basalt. 94 The Mantle Located just below the crust. It is denser than crust, about 2,900 km thick. It is composed mainly of very hot, solid rocks that flow. The region between the crust and the mantle is called MOHOROVICIC DISCONTINUITY OR MOHO. Scientists have been able to confirm the differences in density between rocks of the crust and those of the mantle by studying the Moho. 95  The Core It is about 4,960 km deep. It is divided into: 1. Outer core It is about 2,270 km thick Composed mainly of nickel and iron melted by intense heat. The temperature ranges from 4,000 C to 5,000 C 2. Inner Core It is composed mainly of solid iron and nickel. The temperature is around 5,000 C to 6,000 C. The pressure is exceedingly high. 96 Rocks of Lithosphere There are three types of rocks found in the lithosphere. 1. Igneous rock – formed by the cooling and solidification of molten rock material. E.g. – Granite, Rhyolite, Pumice 2. Sedimentary rock – formed by the gradual decomposition of igneous rocks. E.g. – lime stone, breccia and sand stone 3. Metamorphic rock – Formed by the metamorphosis of igneous and sedimentary rocks. Eg. – White marble, slate, schist. 97 Soil Soil is the important component of environment as it give the habitat to different organisms and provide nutrition to all sort of life. Soil can be defined as the composition of organic and inorganic materials that support the life. Soil is formed by the weathering of rocks found in the lithosphere. Soil is divided in to various horizons depending upon composition. Weathering of rocks takes place by three ways i.e. Physical, Chemical and Biological Weathering. 98  BIOSPHERE The part of atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere where life sustains is known as Biosphere. It includes all the plants, animal, and microbes. It also include various interactions, biogeochemical cycles and all ecosystems. ATMOSPHERE LITHOSPHERE BIOSPHERE HYDROSPHERE 99 Bishnoi Community Bishnoi community did a massive sacrifice for the protection of trees in September 1730 in the village of Khejadali, near Jodhpur. As many as 363 Bishnoi men and women, led by Amrita Devi, sacrificed their lives to protect the Khejari trees from the soldiers of the king Abhay Singh of Jodhpur. 100 In 1730, almost 300 years after Guru Jambaji's 29 principles were recorded, the king of Jodhpur wanted to build a new palace. He sent soldiers to gather wood from the forest region near Khejadali village, where Bishnoi villagers had helped foster an abundance of khejri (acacia) trees. When the king's men began to harm the trees, the Bishnois protested in anguish but were ignored by the soldiers, who were under royal orders. 101 Amrita Devi was a female villager who could not bear to witness the destruction of both her faith and the village's sacred trees. She decided to literally hug the trees, and encouraged others to do so too, proclaiming: “A chopped head is cheaper than a felled tree.” 102 Bishnois from Khejri and nearby villages came to the forest and embraced the trees one by one to protect them from being cut down. As each villager hugged a tree, refusing to let go, they were beheaded by the soldiers. This voluntary martyrdom continued until 363 Bishnoi villagers were killed in the name of the sacred Khejarli forest. 103 Once word got back to the King about the incident he rushed to the village and apologized and ordered the soldiers to cease the operation. Soon afterwards, the King designated the Bishnoi village as a protected area, forbidding harm to trees and animals. This legislation still exists today in the region. 104 In the memory of the 363 Bishnois, a number of Khejri trees are planted around the area, which is still notably lush and rich with animal life. The Bishnoi sacrifices became the inspiration for a much larger Chipko movement that is still growing today. 105  Chipko Movement The Chipko movement or Chipko Andolan is a movement that practiced the Gandhian methods of satyagraha and non-violent resistance, through the act of hugging trees to protect them from being felled. This was first initiated by Amrita Devi while protesting against a King's men to cut the tree. The modern Chipko movement started in the early 1970s in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, then in Uttar Pradesh with growing awareness of rapid deforestation. 106 The event took place on March 26, 1974, when a group of peasant women in Reni village, Hemwalghati, in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, acted to prevent the cutting of trees and reclaim their traditional forest rights, which were threatened by the contractors assigned by the state Forest Department. Their actions inspired hundreds of such actions at the grassroots level throughout the region. By 1980s, the movement had spread throughout India and led to the formulation of people-sensitive forest policies, which put a stop to the open felling of trees in regions as far as the Vindhyas and the Western Ghats. Today, it is seen as an inspiration and a precursor for Chipko movement of Garhwal. The movement was led by Sunderlal Bahuguna. 107 Narmada Bachao Andolan Narmada Bachao Andolan is the most powerful mass movement, started in 1985, against the construction of huge dam on the Narmada river. Narmada is the India's largest west flowing river, which supports a large variety of people with distinguished culture and tradition ranging from the indigenous (tribal) people inhabited in the jungles here to the large number of rural population. The proposed Sardar Sarovar Dam and Narmada Sagar will displace more than 250,000 people. The big fight is over the resettlement or the rehabilitation of these people. The two proposals are already under construction, supported by US$550 million loan by the world bank. There are plans to build over 3000 big and small dams along the river. 108  It is a multi crore project that will generate a big revenue for the government. The Narmada Valley Development plan is the most promised and most challenging plan in the history of India. The proponents are of the view that it will produce 1450 MW of electricity and pure drinking water to 40 million people covering thousand of villages and towns. Some of the dams have been already been completed such as Tawa and Bargi Dams. But the opponents says that this hydro project will devastate human lives and bio diversity by destroying thousand of acres of forests and agricultural land. 109  On the other hand it will overall deprive thousands of people of their livelihood. They believe that the water and energy could be provided to the people through alternative technological means, that would be ecologically beneficial. Led by one of the prominent leader Medha Patkar, it has now been turned into the International protest, gaining support from NGO'S all around the globe. Protestors are agitating the issue through the mass media, hunger strikes, massive marches, rallies and the through the on screen of several documentary films. Although they have been protesting peacefully, but they been harassed, arrested and beaten up by the police several 110  The Narmada Bachao Andolan has been pressurizing the world bank to withdraw its loan from the project through media. The strong protests through out the country not only made impact on the local people but has also influenced the several famous celebrities like film star Aamir Khan , who has made open efforts to support Narmada Bachao Andolan. He said he only want that those who have been rendered homeless should be given a roof. He pleaded to the common people to take part in the moment and come up with the best possible solutions. In 1961, the original project envisaged irrigation of almost 2 million acres (8,100 km2) in West India at a cost of $100 million. By 2011, it had escalated to $3 111 Tehri Dam Controversy The Tehri Dam has been the object of protests by environmental organizations and local people of the region. In addition to the human rights concerns, the project has spurred concerns about the environmental consequences of locating such a large dam in the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayan foothills. There are further concerns regarding the dam's geological stability. The Tehri dam is located in the Central Himalayan Seismic Gap, a major geologic fault zone. 112  This region was the site of a 6.8 magnitude earthquake in October 1991, with an epicenter 53 kilometres (33 mi) from the location of the dam. Dam proponents claim that the complex is designed to withstand an earthquake of 8.4 magnitude, but some seismologists say that earthquakes with a magnitude of 8.5 or more could occur in this region. Were such a catastrophe to occur, the potentially resulting dam-break would submerge numerous towns downstream, whose populations total near half a million. 113  The relocation of more than 100,000 people from the area has led to protracted legal battles over resettlement rights, and ultimately resulted in the project's delayed completion. Since 2005, filling of the reservoir has led to the reduced flow of Bhagirathi water from the normal 1,000 cubic feet per second (28 m3/s) to a mere 200 cubic feet per second (5.7 m3/s). This reduction has been central to local protest against the dam, since the Bhagirathi is considered part of the sacred Ganges whose waters are crucial to Hindu beliefs. At some points during the year, the tampering with Bhagirathi waters means this tributary stops flowing. 114  This has created resentment among many Hindus, who claim that the sanctity of the Ganges has been compromised for the generation of electricity. Though the officials say that when the reservoir is filled to its maximum capacity the flow of the river will again become normal. In spite of concerns and protestation, operation of the Tehri Dam continues. 115  ROLE OF TEACHERS AND STUDENTS As we living on the planet Earth, whether rich or poor, whether working in an office, factory or field, whether groups or individuals, are responsible for the present dismal state of the environment. Teachers can play a major role in promoting the concept of sustainable development. Teachers can teach the students how to design structures, how to construct buildings, power plants, hydropower systems with taking proper care towards environmental factors and develop new methods to produce less pollution. 116 CODE OF ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS FOR ENGINEERS The WFEO (World Federation of Engineering Organisations) Committee on Engineering and Environment, with a strong and clear belief that man's enjoyment and permanence on this planet will depend on the care and protection he provides to the environment, states the following principles. TO ALL ENGINEERS When you develop any professional activity : Try with the best of your ability, courage, enthusiasm and dedication to obtain a superior technical, achievement, which will contribute to and promote a healthy and agreeable surrounding for all men. In open spaces as well 117  Strive to accomplish the beneficial objectives of your work with the lowest possible consumption of raw materials and energy and the lowest production of wastes and any kind of pollution. Discuss in particular the consequences of your proposals and actions, direct or indirect, immediate or long term, upon the health of people, social equity and the local system of values. 118  Study thoroughly the environment that will be affected, assess all the impacts that might arise in the state, dynamics and aesthetics of the ecosystems involved, urbanized or natural, as well as in the pertinent socio- economic systems, and select the best alternative for an environmentally sound and sustainable development. Promote a clear understanding of the actions required to restore and, if possible, to improve the environment that may be disturbed, and include them in your proposals. Reject any kind of commitment that involves unfair damages for human surroundings and nature, and negotiate the best possible social and political solution. 119  Be aware that the principles of ecosystemic interdependence, diversity maintenance, resource recovery and interrelational harmony form the bases of our continued existence and that each of those bases poses a threshold of sustainability that should not be exceeded. Always remember that war, greed, misery and ignorance, plus natural disasters and human induced pollution and destruction of resources, are the main causes of the progressive impairment of the environment and that you, as an active member of the engineering profession, deeply involved in the promotion of development, must use your talent, knowledge and imagination to assist society in removing those evils and improving the quality of life for all people. 120  It is important that teachers should convey basic concept and knowledge to students and develop an environment friendly attitude amongst them so that the care of environment and need of protection of natural resources inherently reflect in their activities. Students can play their role in protection of environment by implementing what they have learnt during their professional career. 121  Natural Resources Natural resources are the componenets of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere which are useful and necessary for life. These include energy, air, water, minerals, plants, animals and soil. They are essential for the fulfillment of physiological, social, economical and cultural needs at the individual and community levels. 122 ❑Natural Resources are of two types Renewable resources: Natural resources which can be used but can only be regenerated by natural processes provided if there is no intervention in natural regeneration cycle. Example: water, wood, solar energy and wave power. 123  Non-Renewable Resources: Any naturally occurring, finite resource that diminishes with use, such as oil and coal. In terms of the human timescale, a non-renewable resource cannot be renewed once it has been consumed. Most non-renewable resources can only be renewed over geologic time. All the fossil fuels and mineral resources fall into this category. 124  Natural Resources Natural resources are the componenets of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere which are useful and necessary for life. These include energy, air, water, minerals, plants, animals and soil. They are essential for the fulfillment of physiological, social, economical and cultural needs at the individual and community levels. 125 FOREST RESOURCES A forest can be defined as a biotic community predominant of trees, shrubs or any other woody vegetation usually in a closed canopy. It is derived from Latin word 'foris' means 'outside'. Forest resources in India relate to the distinctive topography, terrain, wildlife, climate and vegetation of the country. 126  The total forest cover in India (2023) is 7,13,789 square kilometers which is 21.71% of the total geographical area of the country which is about 2% of the world's total forest area. India is the 10th largest country in the world by forest area. In terms of density classes, area covered by VDF is 98,158 sq. km. and MDF is 3,08,318 sq. km. and OF is 3,01,797 sq. km. corresponding to 2.99, 9.38 and 9.18% respectively of the total geographic area of the country. 127 The forest cover is divided into 3 parts. Very dense forest: All land with tree canopy density of 70% and above. Moderately dense forest: All land with tree canopy density of 40% – 70%. Open forest: All land with tree canopy density of 10% – 40%. 128 129  Classification of Forests: ❖Tropical Forest: These types of forests are characterized by their location near the equator. They have year - round high temperatures and abundant rainfall which makes them a dense and lush with vegetation. They are vital storehouse of biodiversity on the planet. ❖Sub-tropical Forests: These are found to the south and north of the Tropical Forests. The trees here are adapted to resist the summer drought. 130 ❖Mediterranean Forests: These forests are found to the south of the temperate regions around the coasts of the Mediterranean, California, Chile and Western Australia. The growing season is short and almost all trees are evergreen, but mixed hardwood and softwood. ❖Temperate Forests: These forests are found in eastern North America, north-eastern Asia, and western and eastern Europe. Temperate forests are a mix of deciduous and coniferous evergreen trees. Usually the broad - 131 ❖Coniferous Forests: Coniferous forests are found in the cold, windy regions around the poles. The conifers are evergreen and structurally adapted to withstand the long drought - like conditions of the long winters, whereas the hardwoods are deciduous. ❖Montane Forests: These forests receive most of their precipitation from the mist or fog that comes from the lowlands and as such are known as cloud forests. Some of these montane woodlands and grasslands are found in high elevation tropical, sub- tropical and temperate zones. Plants and animals in these forests are adapted to withstand the cold, wet conditions and intense sunlight. Trees are mainly conifers. 132  Over - Exploitation of Forest Resources: Agriculture: Shifting agriculture, livestock rearing, grazing, crop- plantations. Extraction: Mining, fisheries, timber, harvesting, harvesting of non- woody vegetation. Development: Industry, human settlement, tourism, infrastructure development (roads, dams). Unspecified-causes:Fragmentation,deforestation, drainage, replacement by ground waste. Hunting and Collecting: Food support, cultural uses, medicinal plants. 133 Risk of Natural Resources Risks to natural resources like water, soil or biodiversity are increasing. Natural resources are too often overexploited, poorly managed or polluted. Wetland encroachment, soil erosion, unequal water allocation and pollution are just some of the risks natural resources face. 134 With climate change accelerating, droughts, floods and environmental degradation will increasingly put life- supporting natural resources under pressure. 135 136 Benefits of Forests ❑Direct Benefits: Source of fuel wood Source of timber Source of bamboo Provide food Provide shelter Provide raw material for paper Provide raw material for artificial fibres Source of non timber forest products 137 ❑Indirect benefits: Conservation of soil Soil improvement Reduction of atmospheric pollution Regulate climate change Control water flow Prevent soil erosion Recharging of underground water table Play role in the process of water cycle. 138  Importance of Forests: ❖Economic value: Forests supply many products. Wood, timber, plywood, railroad ties, and shingles. It is also used in making furniture, tool handles, and thousands of other products. In many parts of the world, wood serves as the chief fuel for cooking and heating. 139  Various manufacturing processes change wood into a great number of different products. Paper is one of the most valuable products made from wood. Other processed wood products include cellophane, fibers' and rayon. Forests provide many important products besides wood. Latex, which is used in making rubber, and turpentine come from forest trees. 140  Various fats, gums, oils, and waxes used in manufacturing also come from trees. Unlike most other natural resources, such as coal, oil, and mineral deposits, forest resources are renewable. As long as there are forests, people can count on a steady supply of forest products. 141  Environmental value: Forests help to conserve and enrich the environment in several ways. For example, forest soil soaks up large amounts of rainfall. It thus prevents the rapid runoff of water that can cause erosion and flooding. Forest plants, like all green plants, help renew the atmosphere. They give off oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the air. It reduces soil erosion, prevents siltation and landslides thereby floods. 142  In addition, rain is filtered as it passes through the soil and becomes ground water. This ground water flows through the ground and provides a clean, fresh source of water for streams, lakes, and wells. It regulates earth temperature and hydrological cycle. Forest litter help in maintaining soil fertility. Forests also play an important role in existence and conservation of wild life. 143 Recreational value: The natural beauty and peace of the forest offer a special source of enjoyment. In the United States, Canada, and many other countries, huge forestlands have been set aside for people's leisure. Many people use these forests for such activities as camping, hiking, and hunting. Others visit them simply to enjoy the scenery and relax in the quiet beauty. People uses forest as a picnic spots and as a place for recreational activities. 144  Over - Exploitation of Forest Resources: Agriculture: Shifting agriculture, livestock rearing, grazing, crop- plantations. Extraction: Mining, fisheries, timber, harvesting, harvesting of non- woody vegetation. Development: Industry, human settlement, tourism, infrastructure development (roads, dams). Unspecified-causes:Fragmentation,deforestation, drainage, replacement by ground waste. Hunting and Collecting: Food support, cultural uses, medicinal plants. 145  Trade (legal): Food commodities, traditional medicines. Accidental: Trapping, hooking, netting, poisoning. Natural disasters: Volcanoes, drought, floods. Wild Fire: Intentional, unintentional and natural. Others: Land and water pollution, global warming acid rains, ozone hole effect. 146  Deforestation: It describes the complete long term removal of tree cover. The loss of forest cover influences the climate and contributes to a loss of biodiversity. The economic activity is adversely affected by siltation, flooding, soil degradation and reduced timber supplies. Thus, in turn, threatens the 147 ❖Causes for Deforestation: Agriculture Commercial logging Mining Increase in population Urbanization and industrialization Construction of dam reservoirs Forest fires Overgrazing Pest attack Natural calamities 148 ❖Consequences of Deforestation: Food problems Exposing soil to heat and rain Flooding Loss of biodiversity Displacement of indigenous communities Climate change 149  Economic loss Health issues Habitat destruction Reduction in oxygen level Increase in pollution Loss of cultural diversity Lowering of water table 150  Some case studies: ❖Deforestation and Ecological Imbalance: Narmada Valley Project Uttar Kannada District of Western Ghats Gadchiroli District in Central India ❖Afforestation and Conservations: Appiko movement Joint Forest Management 151 Narmada Valley Project of India Originating in the Amarkantak plateau of Madhya Pradesh, the Narmada is the fifth largest river of India and the largest among the west flowing rivers of the Peninsula. The volume of average annual flow of water is 40,700 million cubic metres, 90 per cent of which flows during the monsoon season. Only 5 per cent of this flow is utilized and 95 per cent flows unutilized to the Gulf of Khambhat. The Narmada Valley Project aims at harnessing this flow for the economic prosperity of the concerned areas. This is going to be one of the largest river valley projects of the world because the entire project includes the construction of 30 major, 135 medium and 3,000 minor dams on the river. 152  Conceived in 1945-46 the project has been surrounded by controversies which have become very sharp after 1987 when the construction started and in the present day context this project is more controversial than any other river valley project of the world. There seems to be a tug of war between the environmentalists on one hand, and the protagonists of the project on the other. The environmentalists have predicted doom as, according to them, the project would lead to water-logging, soil erosion, destruction of forests, cultivable land and wild life and also trigger 153  They plead that the reservoirs created by two main dams viz. the Sardar Sarovar dam and the Narmada Sagar Dam will submerge 480 villages and displace 1.5 lakh persons and 8 lakh cattle heads. The Bargi Dam, a part of the giant Narmada Sagar- Sardar Sarovar scheme, has already dislocated about one lakh people in 162 villages in M.P. This dam was commissioned in 1968. Besides 50,000 hectares of reserve forests would also be destroyed. However, the document prepared by the Ministry of Water Resources in 1993 showed that a total of 245 villages in three states of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra would come under submergence of the river water. It would directly affect 38,044 families in the valley (31,080 in M.P., 4,500 in Gujarat and 2,464 in Maharashtra). 154  The submergence would also render useless 11,279 hectares of cultivable land besides causing damage to forest spread over 10,719 hectares of land. There would also be immense loss of flora, fauna and marine life. There is also a pressing demand for the reduction of height of the Sardar Sarovar Dam from 455 ft to 436 ft. to save over 38,000 people from rehabilitation and 25,000 acres of land from getting submerged. The dams on the river are designed to produce about 3,000 M.W. of hydroelectricity. The canal system to be built in the integrated scheme is expected to provide irrigation facility to 17.92 lakh hectares of land in Gujarat, 1.40 lakh hectares in Madhya Pradesh and 73,000 hectares in Rajasthan. 155 Uttar Kannada District of Western Ghats Uttar Kannada is a dense forest area of Karnataka in the Western Ghats. Approximately 80% of the land under the forest cover. It is a unique place as it traverses five important terrestrial ecozones. This place is important centre of Biodiversity in the western ghats. People have traditionally been involved in agroforestry and have maintained unique multi-tiered spice orchards dominated by betel nut. The forest cover area declined over the last several decades. The major causes are developmental activities like industries, hydropower projects and nuclear power plant. 156  The west Coast paper mill has been responsible for the disappearance of major chunk of forests. The mill has unfairly high subsidies and have been allowed to go on in spite of not having adequate effluent treatment facilities. The owners of mill have even managed to get portions of the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary de- notified for the purpose of bamboo extraction and continue to press for more de-notifications of the protected area. 157 Gadchiroli District in Central India Gadchiroli in Central India is one of the most forested districts in India with predominantly tribal population. In recent years there has been accelerated process of deforestation in the district for which locals and tribals were blamed. While the closer look concluded that government policies were the major reasons for the deforestation. Simultaneously that area has many tribal village levels that are striving for more legal control over their forests. There are much village level self initiated forest protection committees that are attempting to regulate the unsustainable use of their forests. 158  Legally the entry of locals in the forest is restricted by the government agencies like forest department. Mendha village is a significant case because of the initiatives of the villagers and their decisions which have contributed immensely in the conservation of the forests of the area. It has various institutional structures like the Van Suraksha Samiti (VSS) or the Forest Protection Committee which takes the forest related decisions. It has lead the villagers to take responsibility of various issues to protect & conserve themselves. The village council has made it compulsory to seek permission prior to the for all sorts of commercial projects 159  THE APPIKO MOVEMENT The famous Chipko Andolan (Hug the Trees Movement) of Uttarakhand in the Himalayas inspired the villagers of the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka Province in southern India to launch a similar movement to save their forests. In September 1983, men, women and children of Salkani "hugged the trees" in Kalase forest. (The local term for "hugging" in Kannada is appiko.) Appiko Andolan gave birth to a new awareness all over southern India. 160 The Appiko Movement was trying to save the Western Ghats by spreading its roots all over southern India. The movement's objectives can be classified into three major areas. First, the Appiko Movement is struggling to save the remaining tropical forests in the Western Ghats. Second, it is making a modest attempt to restore the greenery to denuded areas. Third, it is striving to propagate the idea of rational utilization in order to reduce the pressure on forest resources. To save, to grow and to use rationally - popularly known in Kannada as Ubsu ("save"), Belesu ("grow") and Balasu ("rational use") - is movement's popular slogan. 161  Sustainable Forest Management: Conservation of forest is a national problem so it must be tackled with perfect coordination between forest department and other departments. People's participation in the conservation of forests is of vital importance. So, we must get them involved in this national task. 162  The cutting of trees in the forests must be stopped at all costs. Celebrations of all functions, festivals should proceed with tree- plantation. Cutting of timber and other forest produce should be restricted. Grasslands should be regenerated. Forest Conservation Act, 1980 should be strictly implemented to check deforestation. 163 Joint Forest Management (JFM) Central and state government have undertaken many afforestation programmes such as: ❖Agro Forestry: In this the same piece of the land is used for the farming, forestry and animal husbandry 164 ❖Social Forestry: In this case trees are raised for fuel wood, fodder, edible fruits, agricultural implements and construction purpose by rural population. ❖Urban Forestry: In this case the ornamental fruit trees are grown in urban areas suh as house compounds, common parks and along road sides. 165 Jarawa’s Survival in Andaman Islands Jarawas or Jarawa or Jarwa are the natives of The Andaman and Nicobar Islands located in the Indian Territory. Currently, they are inhabiting the South and Middle parts of the Andaman Islands. According to the 2011 Census of India, there are around 200 to 500 Jarawas living here. Due to their isolation from the outside world, little is known about them. They are currently classified as the Adivasi group together with the Andamanese people. Jarawas are claimed to be the child tribe of one of the already extinct tribes, the Jangil, where they are believed to have separated from many years ago. 166  Jarawas use bows and arrows which they make from iron edges and wooden handles. When they hunt their prey, for example a wild pig they cut its stomach using an arrow to remove the intestines and replace them with palm leaves. Jarawa villages have a population of about 25 people on average with 5 to 10 huts. In their culture, huts are called “Chadda” and the residence of the hut are the “Tutime Chadda.” The Jarawa community is very traditional and lives a primitive life without the touch of modern technology. Their food is collected from the forest and the sea. They mostly gather fruits and tubers for foods and also hunt wild pigs and monitor lizards. They often do fishing at the sea for a change in their diet. 167  The food is cooked using their traditional pit ovens known to them as “aalaw.” But recently they have adopted the use of aluminum kitchen equipment known as “busu” which they get as gifts from other communities. They never consume any raw food and all their food items are cooked or roasted. They also collect honey and jackfruits as supplementary food. 168  Basically, both sexes of the Jarawa community stay naked. They tend to wear certain ornaments but not to cover their nakedness. They also make their own ornaments by hand to beautify themselves i.e. head bands, armlets, wristt bands, and necklaces. They often make temporary ornaments which they name after the materials these are made from. On the other hand, permanent ornaments are made from shells, threads and bark strips. 169  But due to the current contact with the outside world, Jarawas have begun wearing clothes given to them by the visitors and settlers of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Jarwas follow the universal figures, like the sun, sky, moon, stars and clods form a good part of their myths and legends. Jarawas use bows and arrows which they make from iron edges and wooden handles. When they hunt their prey, for example a wild pig, they cut its stomach using an arrow to remove the intestines and replace them with palm leaves. These leaves are then removed 170 before the prey is cooked. Timber extraction and its impact Wood used for the engineering purposes like building houses making furniture etc is called timber wood. Impacts: Loss of cultural diversity Loss of biodiversity Loss of carbon storage capacity 171  Threats to Jarawas Even with laws put in place to prevent the visitors or tourists from viewing, photographing and making contact with the Jarawa community.. 1. The Great Andaman Trunk Road The development of the Great Andaman Trunk Road through the Jarawas settlement has not only lead to the spread of epidemics, like measles outbreak in their population but also the encroachment, poaching and over exploitation of their reserves. Even with the Supreme Court ruling that the development of the great Andaman Trunk Road must be stopped and the Jarawa lands must be prevented from encroachment and exploitation, nothing positive is happening. 172 2. Tourism on the Andamans Even with laws put in place to prevent the visitors or tourists from viewing, photographing and making contact with the Jarawa community, there are still many private companies and organizations that conduct tours to the Jarawa reserves to see and interact with them. There are also claims that the tourists go as far as visiting the homes of the Jarawa and offer the modern clothing and other things. 173  In the beginning of the year 2013, an interim order was passed to ban the tourists from using the Great Andaman Trunk Road that connected to the Jarawa villages. But later on that year, the Supreme Court of India revised the order to reopen the trunk road but only for tour convoys. 3. They remain vulnerable to outside diseases to which they have little or no immunity. In 1999 and 2006, the Jarawa suffered outbreaks of measles – a disease that has wiped out many tribes worldwide following contact with outsiders. An epidemic could devastate the tribe. 4. Jarawa women have been sexually abused by poachers, settlers, bus drivers and others. 174 ❑WATER RESOURCES Water is an indispensable natural resource on this earth on which all life depends. More than 70% of the earth's surface is covered by water and most of the animals and plants have 60- 65% water in their body. Water is characterized by certain unique features which make it a marvelous resource. It exists as a liquid over a wide range of temperature i.e., from 0°C to 100°C. It has the highest specific heat, due to which it warms up and' cools down very slowly without causing shocks of temperature jerks to the aquatic life. 175  it has a high latent heat of vaporization. Hence, it takes a huge amount of energy for getting vaporized. That's why it produces a cooling effect as it evaporates. It is an excellent solvent for several nutrients. Thus, it can serve as a very good carrier of nutrients, including oxygen, which rs essential for life. But it can easily dissolve various pollutants and become a carrier of pathogenic microorganisms. 176  Due to high surface tension and cohesion it can easily rise through great heights through the trunk even in the tallest of the trees like Sequoia. It has anomalous expansion behavior i.e., as it freezes; it expands instead of contracting and thus become lighter. It is because of this property that even in extreme cold, the lakes freeze only on the surface. Being lighter the ice keeps floating, whereas the bottom waters remain at a higher temperature and therefore, can sustain aquatic organisms even in extreme 177 cold.  Sources of Water: ❖Surface water: Rain Water River water Lake water Pond water Sea water 178 ❖Ground water: Groundwater is about 35 - 50 times that of surface water supplies. Till some time back, groundwater was considered to be very pure. However of late, even groundwater aquifers have been found to be contaminated by leachates from sanitary landfills etc. A layer of sediment or rock that is highly permeable and contains water is called an aquifer. Layers of sand and gravel are not call aquifers since they have low permeability. Aquifers may be of two types: ▪ Unconfined aquifers 179  Unconfined aquifers: Unconfined aquifers are those which are overlaid by permeable earth materials and they are recharged by water seeping down from above in the form of rainfall and snow melt. Confined aquifers: Confined aquifers are those which are sandwiched between two impermeable layers of rock or sediments and are recharged only in those areas where the aquifers intersect the land surface. Sometimes the recharged area is hundreds of kilometers away from the location of the well. Ground water is not static, it moves, through at a very slow rate of about a meter or so in a year. 180  Over Exploitation Of Water Resources: ❖ Over Exploitation of Ground Water: Subsidence Lowering of water table: Water logging ❖ Over Exploitation of Surface Water: Population growth Expansion of business activity Rapid urbanization Industrialization Climate change Pollution 181  Water Calamities: ❖Floods: Flood refers to the presence of unusually large amount of water at any place, or more water than what can be handled by the drainage of the area. Coastal flooding River flooding Flash flooding Groundwater flooding Sewer flooding 182 ❖Effects of Floods: Floods damage property and endanger the lives of humans and animals. Due to floods soil erosion take place Death of aquatic species Bridges, roads, river banks are damaged Huge financial losses due to flood 183 ❖Control of Floods Construction of dams, reservoirs and floodways artificial channels that divert floodwater. By restoring vegetation and efficient soil management and conservation, such as crop rotation and contour ploughing. More public awareness programmes are needed to help people understand living with floods to ensure safety of river ecosystem. 184 ❖Drought: When the place does not get as much water as the need, over a significant period of time. Drought is defined in three ways: an extended period of below normal rainfall, a long term depletion of groundwater, or the stunting of vegetation growth due to lack of water. ✓Meteorological drought ✓Hydrological drought ✓Agricultural drought 185 ❖Effects of Drought: It results in crop damage and water supply shortage. Drought increases pressure on the environment, in terms of falling groundwater tables and reduced tree cover. Industry will face power crisis, due to the expected shortfall in hydropower generation. 186 ❖Control of Droughts: Use of water from rainfall, surface and underground water. Construction of tanks, ponds, reservoirs, arid well for irrigation. Lining of canals and distributaries to minimize water loss. Introduction of dry farming, horticulture, pasture techniques. Introduction of water conservation schemes. 187