Vision IAS 365 Environment Mains 2024 PDF

 ENVIRONMENT Table of Contents 1. CLIMATE CHANGE __________________ 4 3.2.1. Urban Water Crisis in India ___________ 46 1.1. Climate Change and Agreements ______ 4 3.2.2. Water f...

 ENVIRONMENT Table of Contents 1. CLIMATE CHANGE __________________ 4 3.2.1. Urban Water Crisis in India ___________ 46 1.1. Climate Change and Agreements ______ 4 3.2.2. Water for Prosperity and Peace ________ 47 1.1.1. COP28 ____________________________ 4 3.3. Ground Water Management in India at a 1.1.1.1. Loss and Damage __________________ 5 Glance ______________________________ 48 1.2. India and Climate Action at a Glance ___ 7 3.4. Namami Gange Programme (NGP) ____ 49 1.2.1. Green Credit Program ________________ 8 3.5. Water Trading _____________________ 50 1.2.2. Carbon Credits Trading Scheme (CCTS), 2023 3.6. Minamata Convention ______________ 51 _______________________________________ 9 3.7. Land Degradation at a Glance ________ 52 1.3. Climate Equality at a Glance _________ 11 4. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ________ 54 1.4. Indian Traditional Practices & Climate 4.1. Sustainable Development Goals at a Glance Change _____________________________ 12 ____________________________________ 54 1.5. Climate Change Impacts ____________ 13 4.1.1. Localisation of Sustainable Development 1.5.1. Impact on Vulnerable Sections at a Glance13 Goals __________________________________ 55 1.5.1.1. Impact on Children at a Glance ______ 13 4.2. Sustainable Tourism at a Glance ______ 57 1.5.1.2. Impact on Women at a Glance ______ 14 4.2.1. Unregulated Tourism in the Indian Himalayan 1.5.1.3. Impact on Elderly Population at a Glance Region (IHR) ____________________________ 58 ______________________________________ 15 4.3. Sustainable Finance ________________ 59 1.5.1.4. Impact on Rural Poor at a Glance ____ 16 4.4. Sustainable Lifestyle ________________ 60 1.5.2. Impact on Health at a Glance _________ 17 4.4.1. Mission LiFE _______________________ 60 1.5.3. Impact on Indian Sub-continent at a Glance19 4.4.2. Circular Economy at a Glance _________ 62 1.6. Mitigation and Adaptation __________ 20 4.5. Sustainable Agriculture in India _______ 63 1.6.1. Climate Change Mitigation at a glance__ 20 4.5.1. Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) 1.6.2. Greenwashing _____________________ 21 Act, 2023 _______________________________ 63 1.6.3. Climate Finance at a Glance __________ 23 4.5.2. Organic Farming in India _____________ 64 1.6.4. Decarbonisation in India at a Glance ___ 25 4.5.3. Climate resilient farming _____________ 65 1.6.4.1. Sector specific Decarbonization _____ 25 4.5.4. Zero Budget Natural Farming at a Glanced67 1.6.5. Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) _ 27 4.5.5. Agroforestry _______________________ 68 1.6.6. Climate Engineering ________________ 29 4.5.6. Environmentally Friendly Fertilizers (EFFs)69 1.7. Cryosphere and Climate Change at a Glance 4.6. Waste Management ________________ 70 ___________________________________ 31 4.6.1. Plastic Waste Management in India at a Glance 1.7.1. India’s interest in Arctic _____________ 32 _______________________________________ 70 1.7.2. Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) at a Glance 34 4.6.1.1. Plastic Waste Management 1.8. Ozone Hole ______________________ 36 (Amendment) Rules, 2024 (PMW Rules 2024) 71 1.9. Other Concepts ___________________ 37 4.6.2. E-waste management in India at a Glance72 1.9.1. Carbon Farming ____________________ 37 4.6.2.1. Battery Waste Management 1.9.2. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism _ 38 (Amendment) Rules, 2024 ________________ 73 2. AIR POLLUTION ___________________ 39 4.6.3. Sewage Management in India at a Glance75 2.1. Urban Air Pollution in India at a Glance 39 4.6.4. Waste to Wealth ____________________ 76 2.1.1. Air Pollution in Major Cities __________ 40 4.6.5. Plant Genetic Resources for Food and 2.1.1.1. Case of Delhi _____________________ 40 Agriculture (PGRFA) ______________________ 77 2.1.1.2. Case of Mumbai __________________ 40 4.7. Miscellaneous _____________________ 78 2.1.2. Cloud Seeding _____________________ 41 4.7.1. Green Buildings _____________________ 78 2.1.3. 5 years of National Clean Air Programme 4.7.2. Environmental Movements in India_____ 79 (NCAP) ________________________________ 42 5. RENEWABLE ENERGY AND 3. WATER AND LAND DEGRADATION ____ 43 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY RESOURCES 81 3.1. The Water (Prevention and Control of 5.1. Renewable Energy in India at a Glance _ 81 Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024 ________ 43 5.2. Solar Energy in India at a Glance ______ 82 3.2. Extreme Water Stress at a Glance ____ 45 5.2.1. Solar Rooftop Power ________________ 82  5.2.2. International Solar Alliance___________ 83 7.2.1. Nature-Based Infrastructure Solutions (NBIS) 5.3. Hydrogen Energy in India at a Glance _ 85 ______________________________________ 116 5.4. Ethanol blending in India at a Glance __ 86 7.3. Heatwave Management in India at a Glance 5.4.1. Sustainable Alternative towards Affordable ___________________________________ 118 Transportation (SATAT) ___________________ 87 7.4. Earthquake Management in India at a Glance 5.5. Tidal Energy ______________________ 89 ___________________________________ 119 5.6. Energy Transition in India at a Glance _ 90 7.5. Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) at a 5.6.1. Critical Energy Transition Minerals _____ 91 Glance _____________________________ 121 5.7. Electric vehicles at a Glance _________ 93 7.6. Landslide Management an India at a Glance 6. CONSERVATION EFFORTS _____ 95 ___________________________________ 122 6.1. Forest Conservation in India at a Glance 95 7.7. Crowd Disaster Management in India at a 6.1.1. Definition of Forest _________________ 96 Glance _____________________________ 124 6.1.2. Community Forest Governance _______ 97 7.8. Fire Safety Regulations in India ______ 125 6.1.3. Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) _ 98 7.9. Forest Fires in India at a Glance ______ 127 6.2. Wildlife Conservation and Protection 100 7.10. Industrial Safety at a Glance _______ 129 6.2.1. Wildlife Conservation in India at a Glance100 7.11. Oil Spills at a Glance ______________ 131 6.2.2. 50 Years of Project Tiger ____________ 100 6.2.3. The Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 7.12. Volcanic Eruptions at a Glance______ 132 2022 _________________________________ 101 7.13. Miscellaneous ___________________ 133 6.2.4. Human-Wildlife Conflict at a Glance __ 103 7.13.1. Dam Safety in India at a Glance ______ 133 6.2.5. Wildlife Crime ____________________ 104 7.13.2. Environmental Cost of War _________ 134 6.2.6. COP 14 to the Conservation of Migratory 8. GEOGRAPHY __________________ 136 Species of Wild Animals _________________ 105 8.1. India Meteorological Department (IMD)136 6.2.7. Coral Bleaching ___________________ 106 8.2. El-Nino - Monsoon Link ____________ 137 6.2.8. UNESCO World Heritage Sites _______ 107 8.3. Triple Dip La-Nina _________________ 138 6.3. Wetland Conservation in India at a Glance 8.4. Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) _____ 138 __________________________________ 109 8.5. Other Concepts in News ____________ 140 6.3.1. Mangroves Conservation at a Glance __ 111 8.5.1. Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation 7. DISASTER MANAGEMENT _____ 113 (AMOC) _______________________________ 140 7.1. Disaster Management in India at a Glance 8.5.2. Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) ___________ 141 __________________________________ 113 9. ENVIRONMENT PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS 7.2. Infrastructure Resilience at a Glance _ 115 2013-2023 (SYLLABUS-WISE) __________ 143 10. APPENDIX ______________________ 149 Copyright © by Vision IAS All rights are reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of Vision IAS. 1. CLIMATE CHANGE 1.1. CLIMATE CHANGE AND AGREEMENTS 1.1.1. COP28 Why in the news? Recently 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) of the UNFCCC was held in Dubai, UAE and parties adopted final document called UAE Consensus. Key outcomes of COP28 Pillars of COP28 Key outcomes Fast-tracking a Launch of Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge (India not a just, orderly, and signatory) equitable energy The Global Cooling Pledge for COP 28. transition Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter Conclusion of First Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement Fixing climate Mobilization of $83.9 billion to climate finance in the Green Climate Fund, finance Adaptation Fund, Least Developed Countries Fund, and Special Climate Change Fund. Operationalization of loss and damage fund Declaration on a Global Climate Finance Framework. Global Green Credit Initiative (GGCI) by India. Focusing on COP28 UAE Declarations on Agriculture, Food, & Climate, Climate and Health and people, lives and Climate Relief, Recovery & Peace livelihoods Global Goal on Adaptation-UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience adopted. Underpinning Launch of COP 28 Gender-Responsive Just Transitions and Climate Action everything with Partnership. full inclusivity Appointment of the Youth Climate Champion. Issues persisting from COP 28 Failure to agree on rules for global carbon market. o US tried to make regulations which were blocked by EU, African and Latin American. Current levels of climate finance are insufficient to meet adaptation finance gap. Promotion of Marine geoengineering technologies like Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage in COP28, ignores the harm they pose to marine environment. Concerns regarding greenwashing and influence of oil-and-gas sector on negotiations during the COP28. India’s concerns at COP28 o Refrained from signing COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health as it could hinder its ability to meet the growing demands for medical services. o Emphasized need of "equity and justice" in U.N. climate negotiations, with rich countries leading global climate action. o Reiterated that cuts must be on all fossil fuel, not just Coal, which it needs for thermal power. Hence, India has refused to sign Green energy pledge. Way Forward Developed country need to expeditiously deliver USD 100 billion/year goal through to 2025, towards climate mitigation.  Need to adhere to Precautionary principle while planning to implement geo-engineering technologies like Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). Operating entities of the Financial Mechanism e.g. GEF, need to provide, capacity-building support to attain and update INDCs. 1.1.1.1. LOSS AND DAMAGE Why in News? COP28 climate conference in Dubai, officially operationalized the loss and damage fund to help vulnerable countries cope with the impact of climate change. Loss and damage (L&D) fund It refers to the compensation that rich industrialized nations, with historic role in climate change, must pay to poor nations, whose carbon footprint is low but are facing the brunt of climate change. o L&D are impacts of climate change that cannot be adapted to, and where losses are permanent. It will be based at the World Bank but managed by an independent secretariat. L&D fund was first announced during COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh (Egypt) in 2022. o Warsaw International Mechanism (WIM) for L&D was established at COP19 in 2013 in Warsaw (Poland) to address L&D associated with climate change in developing countries. India’s stand on fund: Strong supporter of the fund and opening up L&D funds for developing nations and not limit it to small island and least developed nations. Challenges in L&D fund Absence of a mutually agreed upon definition to categorize L&D activities. Poor data availability and processes for systematically collecting, recording, and reporting information on L&D. Low pledges (around $700 million) in comparison to funding requirement estimated in the hundreds of billions annually. Low technical capacity especially in developing countries – to scientifically model L&D. Difficulty in quantifying nontangible L&D like Non-economic losses, like losing family members, the disappearance of cultures and ways of living etc. Way Forward Build upon the COP28 UAE consensus to arrive at a mutually compatible definition of L&D. Focus on building climate change resilience: E.g. strengthening flood defences, Climate resilient Infrastructure, financial or social support, like, insurance protection etc. Mitigation and adaptation actions for both developing and developed countries, to avert and minimize the extent of L&D. Incorporate concept of L&D in national and international policy on climate action. 1.2. INDIA AND CLIMATE ACTION AT A GLANCE 1.2.1. GREEN CREDIT PROGRAM Why in the News? Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) notified rules for Green Credit Program (GCP) 2023. About Green Credit (GC) A singular unit of an incentive provided for a specified activity, delivering a positive impact on the environment. These credits can be traded on a dedicated exchange, similar to how carbon credits are traded. Green Credit Carbon Credit Under the Green Credit Program (GCP) Under the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme operating operating under The Environment under The Energy Conservation Act, 2001. (Protection) Act, 1986. Provides advantages to individuals and Primarily benefit industries and corporations. communities. Green credit activities may qualify for carbon credits, leading to climate co-benefits like carbon emissions reduction, but not vice versa. About Green Credit Program (GCP) A market-based mechanism to incentivise environment positive actions by different stakeholders. o The participation to the GCP shall be based on voluntary participation.  Aim: o Aligned with the ‘LiFE'-'Lifestyle for Environment’ initiative. o Encourage industries, companies, and other entities to meet their existing obligations or other obligations (voluntary). Established under: “The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986” with MoEFCC as Nodal Agency. Governance Structure o An inter-ministerial Steering Committee. o The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) serves as the GCP Administrator, responsible for program implementation, management, monitoring, and operation. o Project Registration, Verification and Issuance of Green Credits platforms are established by ICFRE. Key Highlights of Green Credit Rules (amended) Forest Departments of all States and Union territories required to identify degraded land parcels under their control to enhance green cover. o Focus of work for plantation on degraded forest areas under the GCP to be on eco-restoration of degraded forests. Number of trees to be planted can depend upon site characteristics and may vary as per the site conditions. Activities for eco-restoration not to be limited to the plantation of trees and also include other activities like Plantation of shrubs, herbs, grasses, Soil and moisture conservation works, etc. ICFRE instructs Forest Departments to conduct tree plantation within two years. Other rules: Preference to indigenous species, Plantation of high-quality seedlings and Retention of Naturally growing seedlings. Concerns related to the programme Difficulties in calculating and standardizing measurable outcomes for different focus areas for which the credit is generated. Long-term feasibility of credits. E.g., what happens to green credits in instances of high mortality rates of plantations. 1.2.2. CARBON CREDITS TRADING SCHEME (CCTS), 2023 Why in the news? Ministry Of Power (MoP) announced reforms in Carbon Credits Trading Scheme (CCTS). More on the news The MoP had notified the CCTS in June 2023, to develop the Indian Carbon Market framework, under the Energy Conservation Act, of 2001. Major reforms announced by MoP o The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) to develop the standards and register the project under an offset mechanism. o BEE would “validate” carbon credits, as opposed to only “verification” in the original framework. o Allowed ‘non-obligated entities’ (Non-OEs) (purchase the carbon credit certificates voluntarily) to also register decarbonization projects and generate carbon credits.  Significance of reforms: o The inclusion of Non-OEs further deepens the Indian carbon credit market. o Indian entities won’t have to go to overseas standards agencies to validate their carbon credits. o Foreign decarbonisation projects might choose India for certification. About Carbon Credits Trading Scheme (CCTS), 2023 CCTS provides to set up a carbon credit trading market as the country aims at decarbonizing the economy. o A carbon credit is a kind of tradable permit that equals one tonne of carbon dioxide removed, reduced, or sequestered from the atmosphere. Key Features of the Carbon Credits Trading Scheme (CCTS) o Specifies the structure of the Indian Carbon Market, for both voluntary trading and compliance. o Creation of accredited carbon verification agencies (ACVAs) to carry out verification activities under the scheme. o Compliance Mechanism: Ministry of Power (MoP) will decide sectors and the obligated entities to be covered under the compliance mechanism. o Institutional framework: ✓ New National Steering Committee for Indian Carbon Market (NSCICM) for Governance of the Indian carbon market (ICM) and monitoring ✓ Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) as the administrator: For identification and recommendation of sectors for inclusion in Indian carbon market to the Ministry of Power. ✓ Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC): To regulate matters relating to trading of CCC. ✓ Grid Controller of India Limited as the registry of obligated or non-obligated entities. Other Initiatives for carbon markets in India While India does not have an explicit carbon market, it has instruments that closely resemble carbon markets o Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) o Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) Scheme o Energy Saving Certificates (ESCerts) under Perform Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme Global Hydrogen Trading Mechanism (GHTM): Indian Gas Exchange or IGX (India's only gas exchange)) and Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC) signed a MoU to establish a GHTM. Framework for Voluntary Carbon Market in Agriculture Sector: Sector Launched by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) Challenges to CCTS India’s industry stakeholders do not have deep experience of the cap-and-trade market. Cumbersome and complex institutional framework due to involvement of multiple agencies at different levels. Difficulties in setting emission targets. o Too lax targets in can increase supply of carbon credits and suppress the price of credits in the market. o Too stringent targets can lead to too few carbon credits and hence very high prices for credits. Poor market transparency leading to issues like double counting of GHG reductions, poor assessment of climate mitigation efforts and concerns about greenwashing. Uncertainty about penalties under the proposed carbon market. Challenges in meeting obligations for designated consumers due to shortage of renewable sources of power. Way forward Formulate Transparent, well-defined methodology to set emission intensity targets. o Present trade of various environmental instruments can be examined to observe trading trends. Developing a provision for fungibility of the unit trading to emission reduction may attract voluntary buyers and lead to international participation in the market. Streamline and strengthen institutional structure. 1.3. CLIMATE EQUALITY AT A GLANCE 1.4. INDIAN TRADITIONAL PRACTICES & CLIMATE CHANGE Why in News? The risks posed by climate change have led to a growing recognition that traditional practices should be at forefront in climate change responses. Role of Indian Traditional practices in increasing climate change resilience Agriculture o Natural Farming: E.g. Zero-Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) increases farmers' climate resilience by improving soil health and reducing water usage o Adaptation to sea level rise: E.g. Kuttanad Kaliyanam farming which involves below sea level paddy cultivation in Kerala. o Water use efficiency: E.g. Meghalaya's bamboo drip irrigation system. o Architecture and housing: Traditional architecture from extreme weather and disaster-prone regions. E.g. Dhajji-Dewari and Taq system of Kashmir valley. Sacred Grooves in India: Act as gene pools for traditional crop varieties and medicinal plants, safeguarding genetic resources for future generations. Traditional Rainwater harvesting: Helps mitigates the effects of drought. E.g., Jhalaras of Rajasthan, Zabo of Nagaland. Issues with adoption of traditional practices Threat to food security due to risk of decline in agricultural productivity. Lack of Scientific certainty in some traditional practices, E.g. ZNBF farming. Endangered Traditional practices due to Homogenizing influence of modernization and lack of repository of traditional practices. Misappropriation of India’s traditional Knowledge and practices by foreign entities. E.g. patent on healing properties of turmeric, neem etc. Conclusion There is need to Capturing India’s Traditional Knowledge and practices through community engagement, participatory mapping, ethnographic research and documenting and mapping. Also, there is a need to integrate traditional knowledge into national climate change policies. 1.5. CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS 1.5.1. IMPACT ON VULNERABLE SECTIONS AT A GLANCE 1.5.1.1. IMPACT ON CHILDREN AT A GLANCE 1.5.1.2. IMPACT ON WOMEN AT A GLANCE 1.5.1.3. IMPACT ON ELDERLY POPULATION AT A GLANCE 1.5.1.4. IMPACT ON RURAL POOR AT A GLANCE 1.5.2. IMPACT ON HEALTH AT A GLANCE 1.5.3. IMPACT ON INDIAN SUB-CONTINENT AT A GLANCE 1.6. MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION 1.6.1. CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AT A GLANCE 1.6.2. GREENWASHING Why in the News? Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has sought public comments on the proposed Draft Guidelines on Prevention and Regulation of Greenwashing issued under Consumer Protection Act, 2019. More on the News Green washing involves making a product or policy seem more environmentally friendly or less damaging than it is in reality Key highlights of the draft guidelines o Defines and also prohibit greenwashing. o Applies to all advertisements, service providers, advertisers, endorsers, etc. o Prohibits selective presenting of data and calls for fully disclosing environmental claims. o Verification of claims through credible certification, reliable scientific evidence, and independent third-party verification. o Futuristic environmental claims only when clear and actionable plans have been developed for achievement of objectives. Need for regulating greenwashing Erosion of Public Trust due to deceptive marketing and false claims of sustainability. o Example, in 2015, the US Protection Agency exposed Volkswagen for using software to manipulate emission tests in its Clean Diesel cars. False environmental claims delay the genuine solutions. Impact on Innovation as it redirects resources towards the appearance of environmental friendliness Initiatives taken to prevent Greenwashing India o Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS): Developed a standard for eco-labelling of products and services called IS/ISO 14024:1999. o Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) regulates matters related to violation of rights of consumers, and false or misleading advertisements. o Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI): The ASCI guidelines require that advertisements making environmental/green claims be specific, accurate, and not misleading. o Security and Exchange Board of India (SEBI): SEBI's Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) norms. ✓ SEBI also issued dos and don’ts relating to green bonds. Global o UN’s High-Level Expert Group on Net-Zero Emissions Commitments of Non-State Entities o Greenwashing TechSprint Way-Forward Annual publication of each organization’s greenhouse gas emissions alongside baseline data and Third- Party certification. Harness new technologies like AI, natural language processing, Machine Learning in tackling greenwashing while also measuring impact of a project. Cross-border cooperation and collaboration among companies, governments, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders. 1.6.3. CLIMATE FINANCE AT A GLANCE 1.6.4. DECARBONISATION IN INDIA AT A GLANCE 1.6.4.1. SECTOR SPECIFIC DECARBONIZATION Transport Sector Emission from India’s Transport Sector 14% share in energy-related CO2 emissions. 3rd most greenhouse-gas-emitting sector in India. Between 1990 and 2019, Indian Transport-sector emissions grew by 375%. (Towards Decarbonising Transport 2023) Challenges in Decarbonisation Challenges in adoption of low carbon transportation like electric vehicles (EVs) o High cost: Involved in deployment of new technologies and charging infrastructure. o Hesitancy: Among consumers to adopt due to high cost, safety etc. o Low focus on fuel standards. o Fossil fuel’s share is still high in India’s power generation in India (43% of total installed capacity). High levels of traffic congestion and air pollution. Emerging issues: War in Ukraine, increased geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, spiralling energy prices, and rising inflation. Initiatives taken by India to Decarbonise Transport Sector Targets: 45% mode share for rail freight until 2030; 30% EV market share by 2030 Bharat Stage VI Emission Standards Ethanol Blending in Petrol to reach 20% by 2025 Forum for Decarbonizing Transport in India by NITI Aayog FAME India (Part of National Electric Mobility Mission Plan) PM-eBus Sewa Scheme for city e-buses on PPP model National Green Hydrogen Mission Way forward Avoid, Shift and Improve Strategy: o Mobility transition - Transition to sustainable mobility will reduce energy consumption without limiting mobility. (Avoid) o Energy transition in transport - Transition to clean energy in the transport sector will cover remaining demand with carbon-neutral energy. (Shift) o Transport transformation - This large-scale transformation will ensure that transport is carbon neutral by 2050. (Improve) Strategic investments and innovative financial solutions can kick-start an accelerated transition to 100% zero-emission motor vehicles (COP26 declaration). Agrifood systems Emission from Agrifood systems Contributes to~ 1/3rd of global greenhouse gas emissions. (18 % in India’s (2019)) India among the top 3 emitters of agrifood emission. Challenges in decarbonisation Project-level financing for agrifood systems stands at only 4.3%. High fossil fuel usage: At least 15% of global fossil fuels use annually (Global Alliance for the Future of Food report). Initiatives National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana. Gobardhan scheme. Recommendations for the Agrifood System Transformation Annual investments must increase to $260 billion a year to halve agrifood emissions by 2030 and reach Net Zero emissions by 2050. Repurposing harmful subsidies toward agrifood system mitigation technologies Use Innovative mitigation technologies like chemical methane inhibitors, feed additives from red seaweed, indoor farming methods, precision machinery, etc.  Shipping Industry Emission from Shipping Industry (UNCTAD’s Review of Maritime Transport 2023 report) International Shipping emissions increased by 20% in the last decade. Shipping industry accounts for nearly 3% of global GHG emissions. Challenges Only 1.2% of the global fleet use alternative fuels like LNG, battery/hybrid, LPG, and methanol. Cost of retrofitting existing fleet. Initiatives to Protect Environment from Shipping Emissions: International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a target to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by around 2050 (at least 5-10% use of zero or near-zero GHG fuels by 2030). IMO's Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI). The MARPOL Treaty a legal instrument under the auspices of IMO. Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships. Harit Nauka Initiative in India Way Forward: Recommendations (UNCTAD’s Review of Maritime Transport 2023 report) Facilitate the fuel transition and an equitable decarbonization process The readiness and availability of alternative fuels and vessel designs must be assessed. Reform and invest in port efficiency and performance 1.6.5. SHORT-LIVED CLIMATE POLLUTANTS (SLCPS) Why in the News? The Climate and Clean Air Coalition's (CCAC) annual meeting, the Climate and Clean Air Conference, recently took place in Nairobi, Kenya. About CCAC It is the only global alliance dedicated exclusively to the reduction of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs). India joined in 2019. Key outcomes of the CCAC Conference 2024: Launch of Clean Air Flagship, CCAC Technology and Economic Assessment Panel etc. What are short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs)? They are powerful climate forcers that remain in the atmosphere for a much shorter period of time than carbon dioxide, yet their potential to warm the atmosphere can be many times greater. Impact of SLCPs 2nd largest contributor to human-caused climate warming after carbon dioxide, contributing up to 45% of global warming to date. On Human Health: E.g., Exposure to ground-level ozone can cause inflammation of the lungs, asthma and allergies. On weather patterns: E.g., Tropospheric ozone influences cloud formation. Accelerated ice melt: Due to deposition of black carbon on ice or snowfields. On Agriculture: E.g., Tropospheric ozone harms vegetation by damaging leaves, reducing photosynthesis, impairing plant reproduction and growth, etc. Sector-wise solutions to reduce SLCPs Agriculture: Promote farm-scale anaerobic digestion; Eliminate open burning in agriculture etc. Fossil fuels: Carry out pre-mining de-gasification and recovery and oxidation of methane from ventilation air from coal mines. Waste: Separate and treat biodegradable municipal waste and turn it into compost or bioenergy to mitigate methane. Household energy: Replace traditional cooking with clean-burning modern fuel and cookstove technology, such as solar, biogas, electricity to reduce black carbon. 1.6.6. CLIMATE ENGINEERING Why in the News? UNESCO released it first report on the ethics of climate engineering. About Climate Engineering Aims to address global warming not by reducing GHG emissions but by directly intervening in the climate system. Methods: Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and Solar Radiation Modification (SRM). Significance of climate engineering: Mimic natural processes; Reduces the urgency of reducing carbon emissions; Addressing climate policy gap etc. Potential risks associated with climate engineering Environmental Risks: o May impair the self -regulation capacity of natural ecosystems in long run; o Can have adverse impact on ozone layer, rainfall, crop production and ocean acidification; and o Technology dependency for tackling climate. Economic Risks: High cost and can exacerbate global inequalities. Ethical issues o Organized irresponsibility: Due to the uncertainties and synergistic effects of environmental risks. o Low transparency of their progress, feasibility, risks, and benefits. o Violates Distributive justice: Due to difficulties in achieving ethical consensus for proper recognition and compensation for risks. Moral hazard: providing stakeholders with an excuse to not reduce the use of fossil fuels.  India’s Initiative for climate engineering Department of Science and Technology (DST) is supporting an active climate modelling research program in geoengineering at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Major Research and Development Program (MRDP) was launched by DST to understand the implications of geoengineering. Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology is developing Earth system model for performing solar geoengineering simulations. Way ahead: UNESCO’s recommendations Introduce legislation that regulates climate action to prevent harm and ban weaponization of climate engineering techniques. Participation and inclusiveness of Marginalised groups, women, youth, indigenous people et. Promote open collaboration and constant monitoring of climate actions to promote informed decision making. Strengthening institutional, technological and ethical capacities as regards climate action. 1.7. CRYOSPHERE AND CLIMATE CHANGE AT A GLANCE 1.7.1. INDIA’S INTEREST IN ARCTIC Why in the news? Ministry of Earth Sciences Launched India’s 1st Winter Scientific Expedition to Arctic. Significance for India Environmental Protection: Changes in the Arctic climate have global implications, including on the Indian monsoon, global sea rise etc. Economic: The Arctic holds an estimated 13% of the world's undiscovered conventional oil resources and 30% of its undiscovered conventional natural gas resources. o It also has rich deposits of coal, gypsum and diamonds and also substantial reserves of zinc, lead, placer gold and quartz. Transportation and Connectivity: Opening of new shipping route and possibilities of mineral extraction may lead to scramble for supremacy over Arctic region. Science and Research: Crucial for understanding global climate patterns and changes. For example, linkage between Arctic-Himalaya. Challenges Faced by Arctic Region Plastic Crisis: Toxic Threats to Health, Human Rights, and Indigenous Lands from the Petrochemical Industries.  Arctic Amplification: Arctic is heating up more than 2 times as fast as rest of world. Melting sea ice: 2022 sea ice extent is well below long-term average. Changing chemistry of western region of the Arctic Ocean: Acidity levels increasing three to four times faster than ocean waters elsewhere. Governance: Unlike Antarctica, which is governed by Antarctic Treaty, Arctic region belongs to various national jurisdictions. Initiatives for Arctic Region The Arctic Council facilitates cooperation among Arctic states on environmental protection and sustainable development. UN High Seas Treaty to mitigate impacts of climate change. India’s Arctic Policy- Aims to understand the impact of climate change in the Arctic on India's climate, and energy security. Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment (PAME). Conclusion Exploration in Arctic region should be safe and sustainable with minimum Intervention in Arctic ecosystem for resources exploitation. Also, global cooperation can be promoted in implementing international commitments such as Paris Climate deal. 1.7.2. HINDU KUSH HIMALAYAS (HKH) AT A GLANCE 1.8. OZONE HOLE Why in the news? As per recent study, from 2020-22, ozone hole has grown larger and thinner over Antarctica. Since 2004, researchers saw a total reduction of 26% at the core of ozone hole. About Ozone hole Ozone hole: Exceptionally depleted ozone in the stratosphere (between 10 KM and 40 KM above the Earth's surface) over Artic/ Antarctic. o Ozone layer is a thin shield of gas in Earth’s atmosphere that protects the Earth, absorbing the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Arctic Hole Antarctic hole First noticed in 2011. First reported in 1985. Occurs during spring. Develops in August and dissipates in late Arctic vortex prevents cold air from escaping November the region. The frozen crystals that make up polar This keeps the concentration of ozone depleting stratospheric clouds provide a surface for the substances high in the region. reactions that free chlorine atoms in the Increased concentration of ozone depleting Antarctic stratosphere. substances leading to ozone depletion. o Occurs due to polar Arctic vortex. Causes of Ozone Layer Depletion: Natural: Changes in Antarctic polar vortex; Aerosols from wildfires and volcanic eruptions; Changes in solar cycle etc. Human-made: Human-made greenhouse gases known as Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODSs) o Major ODSs includes chlorine, bromine, CFCs, carbon tetrachloride, halons etc. Initiatives Montreal Protocol: o It is a global environmental treaty to eliminate the production and use of ODS. o It was implemented under the Vienna Convention (adopted in 1985) Later, Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol was adopted in 2016; to phase down the production and consumption of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). According to UNEP, ozone layer is on track to recover within four decades. India and Ozone Depletion India exceeded the 35% HCFC (Hydrochlorofluorocarbons) phase-out goal, achieving a 44% reduction from the 2020 baseline and has also eliminated HCFC 141b. (UNDP) India's initiative to address ozone depletion: o Ratification to Vienna convention and Montreal protocol. o Three-stage HCFC phase-out Management Plan. o India cooling Action Plan (ICAP) to provide access to sustainable cooling. o Ozone Cell in MoEFCC. 1.9. OTHER CONCEPTS 1.9.1. CARBON FARMING Why in the news? European Parliament and the European Council recently working to establish the first EU-level Carbon Removal Certification Framework to boost carbon farming. About Carbon Farming Uses regenerative agricultural practices to improve agricultural productivity, restore ecosystems, and combat climate change by storing carbon and reducing emissions. Common Methods: Agroforestry, conservation farming (minimising soil disturbance), integrated nutrient management, Renewable Energy Production Grasslands Conservation, etc. Potential Benefits: Carbon Sequestration: Agricultural soils can absorb 3-8 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent every year. Promoting Farmers Income: Carbon credit systems can incentivise farmers by providing additional income through environmental services. Challenges: Inadequate policy support, lack of resources to invest in sustainable land management practices by small land holding farmers etc. 1.9.2. CARBON BORDER ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM Why in the news? Green energy to help industry deal with EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM): Ministry of Commerce and Industry About CBAM CBAM is a policy instrument to put a fair price on the carbon emitted during the production of carbon- intensive goods that are entering the EU and to encourage cleaner industrial production in non-EU countries. o Reporting under it will start from 1 October 2023. It becomes operational in its definitive phase on 1 January 2026. o The CBAM is designed to be compatible with WTO rules. CBAM is like a non-tariff barrier (NTB) for Indian exports. o An NTB is any measure, other than a customs tariff, that acts as a barrier to international trade. Potential impact on India: Can affect India’s exports. o E.g., in 2022, India's 27% exports of iron, steel, and aluminium products of value USD 8.2 billion went to the EU. India’s Approach to deal with CBAM Adoption of low-carbon emitting technologies and production methods. Promoting decarbonization with the help of initiatives like Green Hydrogen Mission, Solar Mission etc. India is negotiating with the EU to keep MSMEs out of the ambit. 2. AIR POLLUTION 2.1. URBAN AIR POLLUTION IN INDIA AT A GLANCE 2.1.1. AIR POLLUTION IN MAJOR CITIES 2.1.1.1. CASE OF DELHI Reasons for rise in air pollution in Delhi every winter Changes in wind direction to Northwest after monsoon withdraws brings dust from Rajasthan, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Dip in wind speeds making them ineffective at dispersing pollutants. Temperature Inversion entraps pollution at lower levels. Vehicle emissions are responsible for 40% of PM2.5 emissions in the nation’s capital. Stubble burning in NCR. o E.g., 1 tonne of straw being burnt releases 3kg of Particulate Matter and 1460kg of Carbon dioxide. Temperature Inversion As temperature dips, inversion height, which is layer beyond which pollutants cannot disperse into the upper layer of the atmosphere, is lowered. The concentration of pollutants in the air increases when this happens. 2.1.1.2. CASE OF MUMBAI Reasons for rise in air pollution in Mumbai Change in local wind pattern: Cycle of wind patterns between sea to land and land to sea is disturbed which increases the Particulate Matter (PM).  o Dip in La Nina (cooling of the ocean surface and change in wind patterns) Temperature gradient: Between the city and nearby hills, draws winds and dust towards the city. Generation of pollutants: Road dust, construction sites, automobile exhaust, unclean fuel, etc. 2.1.2. CLOUD SEEDING Why in the news? Researchers discussed the possibility of using cloud seeding to tackle Delhi's air pollution. About Cloud Seeding It is a weather modification technique to enhance precipitation by dispersing substances into air that help to saturate the clouds. Chemicals used: Salts of silver iodide, potassium iodide, sodium chloride, or dry ice, etc. Conditions required for cloud seeding: o Deep enough clouds with suitable temperature (between -10 and -12 degrees Celsius). o Cloud covering at least 50% of the target area. o Relative humidity to be greater than 75%. o Cold enough clouds to hold supercooled liquid water. Methods of cloud seeding Hygroscopic cloud seeding, involving dispersing salts through flares or explosives. Yielded positive results in South Africa and Mexico. Use of electrical charges that work similar to silver iodide. Researchers directed infrared (that helped atmospheric gases to form particles, acting as seeds) to air in Berlin. Applications of Artificial Rain (using Cloud Seeding) Power generation: Augmented the production of hydroelectricity (by enhancing rainfall in catchment areas) in Tasmania, Australia, during the last 40 years. Increasing rainfall: Cloud Aerosol Interaction and Precipitation Enhancement Experiment (CAIPEEX phase-4), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences in 2018-19 was able to achieve 18% relative enhancement in rainfall over 100 sq km area. Fog dispersal and cyclone modification: "Project Sky Water"(1962) of USA. Abate Pollution: Clearing particulate matter and pollutants from atmosphere, dispersal of smog and haze, reduction of airborne pollutants like dust, smoke, and chemicals. Other applications: Controlling Forest fires, aid research by better understanding of atmospheric processes, cloud physics, control of water pollution (maintaining Minimum River Flows), etc. Issues with inducing Artificial Rains Side-effects: E.g., silver iodide could be toxic to aquatic life.  Ethical and Legal challenges: Water rights, ethical considerations regarding human intervention in natural processes, etc. Other issues: Abnormal weather patterns, high cost due to use of aircraft/flare shots, etc. Conclusion Collaborative efforts between scientists, policymakers, and the public for clear guidelines, ethical standards, and regulatory frameworks on cloud seeding projects. Dedicated research to understand the long-term impacts of Cloud Seeding on ecosystems, weather patterns, and human health, etc. 2.1.3. 5 YEARS OF NATIONAL CLEAN AIR PROGRAMME (NCAP) Why in the News? Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) launched NCAP in 2019 due to rising air pollution in the country. About NCAP Aim: To improve air quality in 131 cities (non-attainment cities (NAC) and Million Plus Cities) in 24 States by engaging all stakeholders. o The cities which are exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 5 consecutive years are identified as NAC by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Target: Achieve reductions up to 40% of PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations by 2025-26, base year 2017. Implementation: CPCB at the national level. Under it, City Action Plan’s (CAPs) are implemented by state government and city level (Municipal bodies). Swachh Vayu Survekshan (by MoEF&CC) ranks cities on the basis of the implementation of activities approved under city action plan and air quality in 131 National Clean Air Programme cities. o Criteria used: Biomass and Municipal Solid Waste Burning, Road Dust, Dust from construction and Demolition Waste, Vehicular Emissions, Emissions from Industries, Improvement in PM 10 concentrations, Public awareness, other emissions. PRANA (Portal for Regulation of Air-pollution in NAC) was launched to monitor the implementation of NCAP. Progress made by NCAP in last 5 years 27 out of 49 cities showed improvement in PM 2.5. 24 out of 46 cities showed improvement in PM 10. Challenges in implementation of NCAP Inadequate number of air quality monitors (only 931 against the 1500 targeted by 2024). Poor data capture due to substandard monitoring stations. Less than 50% utilization of total funds released under NCAP. Other Challenges: Lack of clear fiscal and funding strategy at the state level, dealing with trans-boundary emissions. Way forward Adopt a standardised method for air quality monitoring with investment in technological tools. Strong, coherent and coordinated fiscal response by the government. Providing legal mandate to targets for ensuring compliance. Catalyzing action by the private sector and improving stakeholder cooperation. 3. WATER AND LAND DEGRADATION 3.1. THE WATER (PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF POLLUTION) AMENDMENT ACT, 2024 Why in the news? The Parliament recently passed the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024. More on News It amends the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974. Application: Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan (both passed resolution to amend the Act) and the Union territories. Water is a state subject and its optimal utilization and management lies predominantly within the domain of the States. o However, Article 252 of Constitution empowers Parliament to legislate on any matters with respect to which it lacks legislative power. About Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 The Act provides for the prevention and control of water pollution, and for the maintaining or restoring of wholesomeness of water in the country. The original Act is applicable in 25 States. Regulatory bodies: Creation of the Central Pollution Control Boards (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCB) Approval: Mandatory for industrial units to get permission from their respective State boards before setting up factories. Key Amendments (Water Amendment Act, 2024) Key Aspects Water Act, 1974 Water Amendment Act, 2024 Chairman of Nominated by the State government. Central government to prescribe SPCB manner of nomination, terms and conditions of service. Consent State Government may “exempt certain Central government, in consultation exemptions categories of industrial plants” and with the CPCB for empowered to issue guidelines on Central government may issue establishing matters relating to grant, establishment of guidelines industries any industry, etc. Penalty for Imprisonment of up to Six years for Act decriminalises several violations, offences discharge of polluting matter. and instead imposes penalties of ₹10,000-₹15 lakh. Offences by The head of a department will be deemed Head of a department will be required to pay government guilty for offences penalty equal to one month of their basic departments salary if the department violates any provision of the Act. Other provisions of Amendment Act 2024: Tampering with Monitoring Devices: Penalty ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹15 lakh. Adjudicating officers to be appointed by Central government to determine penalties The Penalties to be credited to the Environment Protection Fund established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Appeal: May be made before the National Green Tribunal, after depositing 10% of the penalty levied. Criticism of the amendments Ineffectiveness of Penalties: E.g., enforcing penalties for littering at Ghats are challenging due to logistical and cultural reasons. Other issues: o Ignoring the Climate and water Crisis o Detrimental Impact on Future Economy o Effect on Federalism due to limited powers of the state to run the operation of SPCBs. Conclusion There is need for Stakeholder Engagement through consultations with environmental experts, industry representatives, and civil society organizations to refine the amendments and address concerns. Also, training and capacity-building programs for Pollution Control Boards can enhance effective enforcement of environmental regulations. 3.2. EXTREME WATER STRESS AT A GLANCE 3.2.1. URBAN WATER CRISIS IN INDIA Why in the news? Bengaluru city witnessed its worst water crisis in decades, highlighting the issue of urban water crisis in India. About Water crisis It refers to a situation where there is inadequate access to clean and safe water. Recently cities like Bengaluru and Chennai suffered water crisis. Water resources becoming scarce because of drought conditions as aggravated by climate change has been referred to as ‘Day Zero’. Reasons behind the Urban Water Crisis High demand: By 2030 India's water demand would be double due to rapid urbanization (UN Report). Limited resource: 18% of world's population lives in India, but it has only 4% of world's water resources. Poor groundwater recharge: Due to unplanned concretization which prevents water from percolating into the soil and recharging the water table. Pollution of water bodies: For example, Bellandur Lake (Bengaluru). Over-extraction of groundwater: 48% urban water supply comes from Groundwater (report by the Centre for Science and Environment) Poor water supply infrastructure: Including distribution networks, treatment plants, and storage facilities. Key Initiatives taken for tackling water crisis National Water Mission (NWM): For conservation Of water through integrated water development. Project for Preparation of Urban River Management Plans (URMPs): Approved by NMCG for 60 cities as a part of River-Cities Alliance (RCA) under Namami Gange. Jal Diwali -"Women for Water, Water for Women Campaign" Jal Shakti Abhiyan - Catch the Rain Campaign: to promote water conservation. Way Forward Nature-Based Solutions: Promoting green-blue infrastructure and restoration of wetlands Promotion of sustaibale Water Management Tecniques: Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM) model was launched by Telangana to recharge ground water. Community based solutions: For e.g., Orange County in California (US) has employed a community education campaign to create acceptance of the recycled water. City to City learning in water governance: For example, the LOTUS-HR program is a collaborative project between the Netherlands and India to treat sewage water in Delhi.  Leveraging the private sector: For e.g., Tata Steel had commissioned the creation of the Dimna Lake in Jamshedpur. 3.2.2. WATER FOR PROSPERITY AND PEACE Why in the news? The "UN World Water Development Report: Water for Prosperity and Peace" report was released by the UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP) on behalf of the UN-Water. Linkages between Water and Prosperity Around 80% of jobs are water-dependent, due to the dominance of agriculture. Economic Returns of WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) outweigh the costs, as it can improve health, productivity, environment, and social outcomes in a society. Ensures gender equality in a society, as water scarcity and droughts can lead to displacement and increase the risks of violence against women and girls, and rate of child marriages. Linkages between Water and Peace Peace and Social Stability of a society increases with decrease in inequalities in allocation of water resources and access to water supply and sanitation. Water is either a tool or a target or a victim of warfare in most parts of the world. o E.g., Israel was accused of using Water as a Weapon of War in Gaza. Human-Animal conflicts are exacerbated by reduced water resources availability. Challenges related to Water in Prosperity and Peace Water–prosperity paradox, where Water is needed by middle- and lower income countries to develop their economies, and economic growth needed in order to finance water requirement. Water Pollution only evolves and doesn’t disappear with development of a country. o E.g., in lower-income countries, poor water quality is mainly due to low levels of wastewater treatment, whereas in higher-income countries, runoff from agriculture is a serious problem. Lack of trans-boundary agreements and international basin establishment o Only 32/153 countries with trans-boundary waters have an operational arrangement. Increased water consumption with new age technologies: E.g., it is estimated that AI currently requires 500 ml of water to answer 10–50 queries. Recommendations States to focus on responsible governance of water, ensuring that secure and adequate access to water resources. Leverage WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) as a ‘politically neutral’ service system, to serve as a platform for social cooperation and partnerships between citizens and government. Decouple water from industrial productivity and encourage water reuse and zero discharge. Trans-boundary water management, through equitable agreements and joint operational bodies. Moving away from mere volumetric water sharing to sharing the outcomes of the resource. Improve water resources development and allocation by integrating nature-based solutions and adopt water accounting method. 3.3. GROUND WATER MANAGEMENT IN INDIA AT A GLANCE 3.4. NAMAMI GANGE PROGRAMME (NGP) Why in the News? Mission to clean the Ganga River remains a work in progress. More on news The government launched the NGP to rejuvenate River Ganga and its tributaries in June 2014 for a period up to 31st March 2021. o The programme was subsequently extended up to 31st March 2026. About NGP Objective: Integrated Conservation Mission to accomplish the twin objectives of effective abatement of pollution, conservation, and rejuvenation of River Ganga. o Also covers its tributaries under one umbrella programme. Key features o Type: Central Sector Scheme. o Implementing Agency: National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and its state counterparts—State Programme Management Groups. Major States covered: Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal. Achievements Out of 1072 Grossly Polluting Industries (GPIs) 885 have been brought under Central Pollution Control Board’s Online Continuous Effluent Monitoring Stations (OCEMS). Median value of Dissolved Oxygen (indicator of river health) found to be within acceptable limits as per survey in 2022. Challenges faced by NGP Slow pace: Out of a total of 409 projects, only 232 projects have been completed and made operational (till December 2022). Low capacity of installed waste treatment plants: Capable of treating just 20% of estimated sewage in 5 major States that lie along the river. Limited Targets: Of the 11,765 MLD of sewage generated across the 5 major basin states, centre is to set up STP capacity only for 7000 MLD of sewage by 2026. Challenges in establishing Sewage Treatment Plant (STP): high cost of installation and maintenance, out- dated infrastructure etc.  Poor financial management: Only about 14,745 cr of allocated funds have been released by NMCG to State Governments, and other agencies till June 2023. Multiple authorities at state and the national levels: This cause duplication of effort. Way forward Existing and planned sewage treatment plants (STPs) need to be verified on efficiency, reliability and technology parameters by independent agencies. Evolve new and innovative ways to generate sufficient revenues for operation and maintenance (O&M) of water and wastewater infrastructure through pricing and valuing water. Restore local storages (ponds, lakes, wetlands) as an integral part of river restoration and conservation strategy. Mapping and updating of land records: Map the entire looped length of each and every tributary of the Ganga and correct the land records. 3.5. WATER TRADING Why in the news? Recently, NITI Aayog released a document on water trading mechanisms to promote the reuse of treated wastewater. About Water Trading Mechanism Water Trading is a water market mechanism that considers water as a commodity rather than public good which can be traded. Mechanism: A Water company, rather than creating its own water source, can buy the water from a third party and sell it to the users. Need for reuse of treated wastewater through water trading Tackling urban water pollution: Only about 40% of urban wastewater is treated in India. Unequal spatial distribution: E.g., India receives more than 80 % of the rainfall during four months of the year. National Water Policy of 2002 & 2012: Emphasised public-private partnership in water management. Tackling water scarcity: Around 80% of people living under water stress lived in Asia, in particular, northeast China and India. (UN World Water Report 2023) Overuse of water in Indian agriculture: India is a large virtual net export of water because of agricultural products export. Challenges Fixing appropriate price of treated wastewater Storage of wastewater generated due to fluctuating demand. Identification/creation of demand to make water/treated wastewater a tradable commodity. Disruption of supply due to maintenance of plant, disruption in sewage network, quality problems in inlet sewage or treated sewage, disruption in the distribution network, etc. In India, water is neither considered a commodity nor possesses any significant economic value. Way forward Formation of Independent Regulatory Authority (IRAs) with statutory powers to determine water allocation and pricing of treated wastewater. o Today, 12 states in India have enacted Acts to form IRAs, but they mostly have the power to regulate water tariffs in the irrigation sector. Creating a trading platform and fixing the reuse target.  Identification of Industrial Clusters, Municipal/Residential units, Agriculture lands, and Environmental needs where the treated wastewater could be reused. Preparation of site-specific plans for reuse using GIS tools. World’s Best Practices in Water Trading Australia: Murray Darling Basin has proved that water trading is one of the best methods to use water in an efficient manner. Spain: Water market exchanges alleviated the conditions of those basins where water scarcity was most severe. South Africa: One of the most advanced water frameworks in the world. South Africa’s system enables existing water rights to be reallocated. 3.6. MINAMATA CONVENTION Why in the news? Fifth meeting of Conference of Parties (COP 5) to Minamata Convention was held in Geneva. Major Outcomes For the first time, COP pushed to reduce mercury supply sources and trade by strengthening capacities at national level and developing study on global supply, trade, production and use of mercury compounds. Limit of 15 mg/kg concentration of mercury is set as threshold for wastes contaminated with mercury. About Minamata Convention on Mercury First global legally binding treaty to protect human health and environment from adverse effects of mercury. Adopted in 2013 at Kumamoto (Japan) and came into force in 2017 (India ratified it in 2018). o Mercury may have toxic effects on nervous system, thyroid, kidneys, lungs, immune system, eyes, skin etc. Purpose: Ban on new mercury mines, phase-out of existing ones, phase-out and phase-down of mercury use in products and processes, Participation of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. Named after the city in Japan that became the epicentre of Minamata disease, caused by severe mercury poisoning. Annexes of Convention Annex A Mercury-added products. Eg. Batteries, Compact fluorescent lamps, Pesticides, etc. Annex B Manufacturing processes in which mercury or mercury compounds are used. Eg. Production of polyurethane using mercury catalysts. Annex C Artisanal and small-scale gold mining. Annex D List of point sources of emissions of mercury and mercury compounds to atmosphere. Annex E Arbitration and conciliation procedures. Success of Convention Global ratification: 148 countries ratified the convention. (As of July 10, 2024) Significant reduction in Mercury Use in industrial processes and products has been reported. Many countries have implemented stringent regulations to control mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants, industrial boilers, etc. Establishment of comprehensive monitoring and reporting mechanisms has improved the tracking of mercury levels. (Reporting rate is 80%). Challenges Reducing mercury use in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining(ASGM) sector remains a significant challenge due to its economic importance in many communities.  Lack of Compliance and Enforcement particularly in countries with limited resources and capacity. Providing adequate technological and financial resources to support developing countries in implementing the convention. 3.7. LAND DEGRADATION AT A GLANCE 4. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT 4.1. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS AT A GLANCE 4.1.1. LOCALISATION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS Why in the News? UN-Habitat released “Smart Cities Mission, India: Localising Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” Report in collaboration with Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. What is Localisation of SDGs? It is the process of taking into account sub-national contexts in achievement of SDGs. Challenges in SDG Localisation Limited availability of finance, data and capacities to perform subnational monitoring. Lack of policy coherence and coordination among national and local efforts. Enhanced responsibilities with limited funds transfer and local resource mobilization. Limited awareness of the SDGs at the sub-national level. Local translation and adaptation in diverse country like India. Efforts taken for SDGs localisation Overall coordination for implementation of SDGs is handled by the NITI Ayog with twin mandate of:  o Overseeing the adoption and monitoring of the SDGs in the country, and o Promote competitive and cooperative federalism among States and UTs. 'SDG India Index' launched by NITI Ayog to monitor the progress of SDGs in states and UTs. Some Examples of SDG localisation Bihar Viksit Bihar ke 7 Nischay, includes schemes on inclusion, entrepreneurship, women's reservation in jobs, provision of water, electricity, concrete streets, toilets and higher education. Bhopal India's first city-level Voluntary Local Review (VLR) of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) called 'Agenda for Action: Sustainable Urban Transformation in Bhopal'. Andhra Pradesh Navaratnalu, cluster of 9 flagship programmes for vulnerable communities. Way Forward Break down the goals and implementation to sub-national and local levels for implementation in a people- centric manner, i.e., gender responsive, community responsive localisation of SDGs. Provide for proper monitoring and evaluation of SDGs implementation through effective partnership among all SDG partners. Help in learning from the shared experiences to overcome the functional silos and adapt to the global challenges through local actions. Create awareness on SDGs in PRIs and empower rural local bodies by effective devolution of Funds, Functions and Functionaries. 4.2. SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AT A GLANCE 4.2.1. UNREGULATED TOURISM IN THE INDIAN HIMALAYAN REGION (IHR) Why in the news? Recently, a Parliamentary Standing Committee has recommended the government to prepare a practical action plan with clear timelines to put a check on destructive activities in IHR. Challenges of unregulated tourism in the IHR Growing number of tourists: IHR records about 100 million tourists every year and the number is expected to increase to 240 million by 2025. Waste generation: According to Niti Aayog’s report in 2018, tourism in IHR States generates about 8.395 million tonnes per year (MT/Y) of solid waste. Others: o Loss of Forests and biodiversity due to infrastructure development o Changing landscape due to replacement of traditional eco-friendly and aesthetic infrastructure o Seasonality of tourism causing over-crowding, erosion of cultural and social fabrics, etc. Way Forward Planning, implementation, monitoring, Multi-year strategy with local community partnerships. Inter-departmental convergence for active monitoring. Designing climate-smart infrastructure through strategic environmental assessment, climate risk disclosure, etc. Use of Technology- E.g., prepare tourism satellite accounts of IHR, multi-hazard zoning, etc.  Financial interventions like ‘Green Cess’, Payment for Environmental Services, etc. Others: Environmental audit of tourism service providers, common certification scheme and eco- labelling, clear zoning of landscape, etc. 4.3. SUSTAINABLE FINANCE Why in news? ‘Sustainable finance: bridging the gap in Asia and the Pacific’ report was launched by United Nation Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). About Sustainable Finance Sustainable finance refers to the process of taking environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into account when making investment decisions in the financial sector. Status of Sustainable Finance Developing countries face high financing gap between $2.5 trillion and $4 trillion annually (Financing for Sustainable Development Report 2024 by UNDESA) Need of USD 3 trillion over the next decade to finance green growth (Reshaping Global Finance Architecture for Sustainable Growth by NITI Ayog) Reasons for high financing gaps Rise in systemic risks, rise in disaster frequency, COVID 19, etc. Average GDP growth rates in developing countries fell to just over 4% annually (between 2021 and 2025). Median debt service burden for Least Developed countries (LDCs) rose to 12% in 2023. Other concerns: Digitization induced risks, rising geopolitical tensions. Measures Taken Addis Ababa Action Agenda for efficient use of financial flows for sustainable development. (SDG Summit 2023 by UNGA in 2030) New Sustainability Reporting requirements under Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) by SEBI. Sovereign Green Bonds: Announced in the Union budget 2022-23 to fund projects which help in accelerating India’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Sustainable Finance Group set up under RBI. Network for Greening of Financing System joined by RBI Task Force on Sustainable Finance set up by Ministry of Finance. Concept of Blue Bonds by SEBI to support investments in healthy oceans and blue economy. Others: Instruments like Green Deposits, Sovereign Green bonds, Green and Social Impact Bonds, etc. Recommendations Local-currency financing of energy transition projects as well as green technologies and other net-zero investments. Concessional financing and risk-sharing by multilateral development banks, bilateral development financial institutions, etc. International Cooperation e.g., new approach to blended finance for responsible business conduct. Green and Inclusive financial systems, ensuring just transition for vulnerable groups. Other measures: Policy coherence, addressing mismatches between capital and investment needs, building tax capacity, resilience funds, promoting circular economies, 4.4. SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE 4.4.1. MISSION LIFE Why in the news? As part of Mission LiFE MoEF&CC conducted awareness activities. About Mission LiFE (‘Lifestyle for Environment’) India-led global mass movement to nudge individual and community action to protect and preserve environment. It is aligned with SDGs and aims to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. Launched by India at UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP26) in 2021 Targets Atleast one billion Indians and other global citizens to take individual and collective action for environmental preservation in 2022 to 2027. Atleast 80% of all villages and urban local bodies to become environment-friendly by 2028. Challenges in Implementation Capitalism encourages individualism, competition and mindless consumption for economic growth. Socio-economic inequity and challenge of choices, e.g., natural fibres being more expensive than mass produced chemically synthesized fibres.  Infeasibility of one-size fits all approach of sustainable approaches, e.g., stable and continuous electricity played a crucial role in successful shift from LPG to electricity based induction stoves in Himachal Pradesh. Lack of the precise information necessary to take informed decisions Other issues: Practice of Greenwashing by companies; Difficulty in measuring sustainability; Lack of financial incentives to invest in clean energy technologies, etc. Way forward Create Accurate and outcome-oriented indicators related to impact of sustainable choices on the environment. Green Nudging citizens with information about importance of sustainable lifestyle and health and wellbeing. Taking inspiration from cultural and traditional practices like handwashing and sun-drying of clothes, handwashing and sun-drying of clothes etc. Incentivising adoption of sustainable options through tools like tax breaks, carbon pricing etc. Knowledge about sustainable lifestyles should be integrated into education programs. 4.4.2. CIRCULAR ECONOMY AT A GLANCE 4.5. SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN INDIA 4.5.1. COASTAL AQUACULTURE AUTHORITY (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2023 Why in the news? Recently, this Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Act, 2023, was adopted, which amends the earlier 2005 Act. About Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Act, 2023 Broaden the definition of “coastal aquaculture” removing the ambiguity existing between the farm and other verticals of coastal aquaculture. Registration granted under Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act shall prevail and be treated as valid permission under Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification. Additional role of Coastal Aquaculture Authority: o fix standards for inputs and discharge of effluents from aquaculture units, o prohibit the use of certain inputs to prevent harm to the environment, o monitor and regulate units, inputs, and emissions. Permitting certain aquaculture activities in CRZ areas like hatcheries, nucleus breeding centres, and broodstock multiplication centres. Prevent the use of antibiotics and pharmacologically active substances. Promote biosecurity i.e. any measure adopted to analyse, manage and prevent the risk of introduction or spread of harmful organisms within the coastal aquaculture unit. Significance of Amendments Economic: Ease of doing business; Employment Generation; Prohibiting the use of antibiotics will decrease non-tariff barriers; and Sustainable growth of Coastal areas. Environmental: Promoting new Environment-friendly coastal aquaculture and Genetically improved and disease-free broodstocks and seeds Issues with the Act Infective work by Coastal Aquaculture Authority: Due to a deficiency in skilled manpower and infrastructure facilities in the Authority (as noted by the CAG report). Promoting intensive coastal aquaculture: which may have adverse impacts on the environment, such as salinisation of land/wells and obstruction of natural flood water drainage. Conclusion The Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Act of 2023 is the appropriate step toward reviving and modernising coastal aquaculture in the nation and making it a major seafood exporter worldwide. 4.5.2. ORGANIC FARMING IN INDIA Why in the news? Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) created dedicated organic promotion division. About Organic Farming It is a unique production management system that promotes and enhances agro- ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycle and soil biological activity. This is accomplished by using on-farm agronomic, biological, and mechanical methods in exclusion of all synthetic off-farm inputs. Status of Organic Farming in India India has the highest number of organic farmers in the world (44.3 lakhs) [Economic Survey 2022-23] India ranks 6th in terms of certified area globally. (The World of Organic Agriculture Statistics and Emerging Trends 2023). Sikkim became the world’s first 100% organic state. Benefits of Organic Farming For the Environment: Prohibits Use of Harmful Pesticides; Healthy Soil; carbon sequestration; Stimulates Biodiversity and micro-organisms; Ethical pasture-based systems. For Farmers: High growing segment of agri-market; Reduces the input cost; resilient to extreme weather events etc. For Consumers: Healthier; Higher nutritional quality etc. Challenges for the Organic Farming High input costs and low yields (18% lower than conventional farming) in the initial years. Inefficient supply chain for marketing and distribution. High price of produce when compared with conventional farming. Issues with certification process such as lack of standardization, poor quality and lack of third party- accreditation agencies etc. Other issues: limited government support etc. Initiatives taken Certifications: National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP); Participatory Guarantee System of India (PSG-India); FSSAI Jaivik Bharat logo. Initiatives to promote Environmental Friendly Fertilizers (EFFs): PM PRANAM (Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth) Scheme; Nano Urea and Neem coated Urea; GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan) Other initiatives: Pramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana; National project on organic farming, Organic value chain development in Northeastern Region Scheme, etc. Way Forward Supplementing organic farming with other sustainable farming methods. Strengthening value chain and certification regime of organic products. Enhancing the number of third party accreditation agencies. Others: production of organic inputs; strengthening value chain of organic products; improving monitoring of certification activities, etc. 4.5.3. CLIMATE RESILIENT FARMING Why in the News? Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal husbandry and Food processing presented 'Promotion of Climate Resilient Farming’ Report. About Climate Resilient Farming It means the incorporation of adaptation, mitigation and other practices in agriculture which increases the capacity of the system to respond to various climate related disturbances by resisting damage and recovering quickly. How does climate change and agriculture impact each other? Impact of Climate change on Agriculture o Projected decline in yields of rainfed rice, wheat by 2050.  o Beneficial for crops like cotton, chick pea, due to reduced frosts. o Shift in crop zones like of Apple and other temperate crops. o About 1.8-2 million tonnes of estimated annual milk loss due to heath stress in cattle and buffalo. Impact of Agriculture on Climate: Agriculture sector emitted about 14% of GHG emissions of India. Major share of GHG emissions due to enteric fermentation (54.6%), rice cultivation (17.5%), and fertilizer applied to agricultural soils (19.1%), etc. Challenges in adopting CSA Requires collaboration between diverse stakeholders of varied backgrounds. Policies like MSP favouring monoculture, excessive groundwater extraction, etc. Other issues: Skill gap in farmers, dependence on rainfall, fragmented land holdings, etc. Initiatives taken National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture’ (NICRA) by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana. An Investment forum for advancing Climate Resilient Agrifood systems in India by NITI Aayog, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, and FAO. Way forward Grassroot level participation: Climate Resilient Villages (CRVs) models Adoption of heat tolerant varieties: for e.g., Adoption of HDCSW-18, DBW-187 (wheat varieties) etc. by Punjab farmers. Better Livestock Feed management: Some feeding methods include altering feeding time or frequency and modification of diet composition. Technological interventions: AI-driven analytics system like Weather Information Network Data System (WINDS), etc. Using Environmental Inhibitors: like Methanogenesis (reducing methane emissions); Nitrogen inhibitors, to minimise the harmful effects of agrifood systems on environment (FAO Report). 4.5.4. ZERO BUDGET NATURAL FARMING AT A GLANCED 4.5.5. AGROFORESTRY Why in the news? Recently, the Centre released a fact sheet to promote agroforestry prepared by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). About Agroforestry Combination of practicing agriculture and forestry together with emphasis on interaction and interdependence on various elements of nature. Components of agroforestry: Crops, trees, and livestock. Agroforestry systems: These are classified based on the type of component: Agri silviculture (crops + trees),Silvopastoral (pasture/livestock + trees); and Agrosilvopastoral (crops + pasture + trees). Attributes of the Agroforestry system o Productivity: Production of preferred goods and increasing productivity of land o Sustainability: Conserving the production potential o Adoptability: Acceptance of the prescribed practice Status: Agroforestry covers 8.65% of India's total geographical area. (NITI Aayog GROW report) Significance of the Agroforestry: Profitability (due to combined output from trees, crops, and livestock); preservation of natural resources and biodiversity; decrease in input cost; food security; carbon sequestration, etc. Initiatives taken Sub-Mission on Agroforestry (Har Medh par Ped) Scheme launched in 2016-17. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) since 2014-15.  National Agroforestry Policy, 2014 Exemption of many tree species from the Felling and Transit rules, and removed bamboo from the category of forest produce to enable large-scale cultivation. Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) listed 36 species that can be grown in different agro-climate zones to promote agroforestry. Way forward for scaling agroforestry Research and development on ecological and social impacts on adoption of agroforestry. Ensuring the availability of certified planting material to the farmers and other users. Development of new agroforestry models for different agro-climatic zones. 4.5.6. ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FERTILIZERS (EFFS) Why in the news? Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approves launch of Urea Gold, an Environmentally Friendly Fertilizer. About Urea Gold (Sulphur-Coated Urea) It is a non-organic slow-release fertilizer and is generally prepared by coating preheated urea granules with molten sulphur. Sulphur coating ensures a more gradual release of nitrogen, prolonging urea action, increasing efficiency and reduce frequent application of fertilizer, thus enhancing soil health. As per Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) study, use of SCU leads to reduction in urea consumption by 25%. Environmentally Friendly Fertilizers (EFFs) EFFs are fertilizers that can reduce environmental pollution from nutrient loss by retarding, or even controlling the release of nutrients into soil. EFFs also include organic fertilizers such as Biocompost, Vermicompost, etc. Initiatives for EFFs in India: o PM PRANAM (Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth) Scheme o Development of Nano Urea and Neem Coated Urea o Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSK) will facilitate these fertilizers. o GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan), helps in preparing organic manure. 4.6. WASTE MANAGEMENT 4.6.1. PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA AT A GLANCE 4.6.1.1. PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT (AMENDMENT) RULES, 2024 (PMW RULES 2024) Why in the news? Recently, the government notified the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024 (PMW Rules 2024) under the powers conferred under the Environment (Protection) Act 1986. Key provisions of PWM Rules, 2024 Local body has been mandated to undertake an annual assessment of plastic waste generated, including estimation of the quantity of plastic waste to be generated in following five-year period. Centralised Portal for Registration: for Producers, Importers, Brand-Owners and manufacturers of commodities made from compostable plastic or biodegradable plastic. Elimination of Single Use Plastics (SUP): Local body shall take necessary measures to prevent stocking, distribution, sale and usage of prohibited SUP items in their jurisdiction and submit annual report. Expansion of scope of EPR: Producers, Importers and Brand Owners who introduce any plastic packaging in the market shall be responsible for collection of such plastic packaging o Also applies to commodities made from compostable or biodegradable plastics. Online Report Submission: Annual report submission on implementation by ULBs to SPCB and PCC; from SPCB to CPCB and from there to Central Government. Other provisions: Changes in Definitions of stakeholders like importer, seller, producer, manufacturers; Precise definition of Biodegradable plastics; Certificate from FSSAI in addition of CPCP by manufactures of compostable or biodegradable plastics; etc. 4.6.2. E-WASTE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA AT A GLANCE 4.6.2.1. BATTERY WASTE MANAGEMENT (AMENDMENT) RULES, 2024 Why in the News? Recently, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change made revisions to the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022. Current Governance framework of Battery Waste in India MoEF&CC published the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022, for environmentally sound management of waste batteries under the Environment (Protection) Act 1986. o The rules replaced the Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001, amended in 2023 and recently in 2024. Key Provisions of the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022 o Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) o Centralized online portal for exchange of EPR certificates between producers and recyclers/ refurbishes. o Mandatory recovery of the minimum percentage of recovery of materials from waste batteries. o Polluter Pays Principle: Environmental compensation imposed for non-fulfilment of EPR target. Key changes introduced by the New Rules Particulars Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022 Battery Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024 Provision of EPR certificates to be generated by CPCB CPCB to fix the highest and the Certificate for through the centralised online portal based lowest price for EPR certificates Waste Battery on the recycled or refurbished quantities. (exchange price between Assigned certificates can be sold in registered entities to lie within this exchange of waste batteries. range) Action on Committee for Implementation CPCB (may consult the violations and constituted by CPCB to prepare and Committee for Implementation) to imposition of recommend guidelines (to be submitted to prepare and recommend Environmental MoEF&CC) for imposition and collection of guidelines (to be submitted to Compensation Environmental Compensation MoEF&CC). Way Forward Policy Support like licence for handling lithium-ion batteries separate from electronic waste; disposal of batteries in landfills to be made illegal (NITI Ayog). Incentivizing manufacturers, such as green taxes, to enforce extended producer responsibility. Deposit Refund System to provide incentives to customers to return batteries; Separate collection agency for collection and recycling of batteries; Financing for R&D. 4.6.3. SEWAGE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA AT A GLANCE 4.6.4. WASTE TO WEALTH 4.6.5. PLANT GENETIC RESOURCES FOR FOOD AND AGRICULTURE (PGRFA) Why in the News? Global Symposium on Farmers' Rights (GSFR) organised by the Secretariat of International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) adopted the Delhi Framework on Farmers’ Rights. Key highlights of Delhi Framework: Creating functional synergy across different UN instruments (like ITPGRFA, CBD, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) etc.) for realization of farmers’ rights. Establish farmer-managed seed system for traditional varieties and create self-sustaining production and marketing value chain. Building farmer-centric partnership opportunities including South-South, etc. About Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA) Are the raw material that form basis of all crop varieties and include seeds and all other plant genetic material. Can be used to develop new varieties or improve the quality and productivity of crops. National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), established in 1976, is the nodal organisation in India. Threats to PGRFA conservation and utilisation Genetic vulnerability and erosion due to mono-cropping Imbalance between Intellectual Property Rights provided to breeders of modern plant varieties and rights of farmers. Other threats: Pollution, climate change induced variations, population growth and urbanisation, Way Forward Constructing a comprehensive information retrieval system for plant genetic resources, conducting efficient survey, etc. Using in-vitro genebank, Field genebank (Ex-situ) and cryobank, etc., on farm management and improvement of plant genetic resources. About International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) Also known as seed treaty, is a legally binding agreement adopted in 2001 (31st session of the FAO) to conserve, use and manage PGRFA around the world. It makes possible the sharing of plant genetic resources across borders through a unique Multilateral System of Access and Benefit-sharing (MLS). Provided an international legal framework for the establishment of Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway. India is a party and has enacted the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Act 2001 to safeguard interest of farmers engaged in the conservation and improvement of plant genetic resources. Indian Initiatives for seed sector: o Seeds Act, 1966; National Seed Policy, 2002; o Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmer’s Rights Act, 2001; o Seed Village Programme; o Sub-Mission for Seed and Planting Material (SMSP) under National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology; o Bharatiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (Cooperative society focussing on production, testing, procurement, processing of seeds). 4.7. MISCELLANEOUS 4.7.1. GREEN BUILDINGS Why in the news? Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) has introduced new green rating tools as part of its Net Zero mission to accelerate the uptake of green building projects in country. About Green Buildings Refers to the use of environmentally friendly construction materials, processes, operation, and maintenance to reduce the cost of energy and waste management. o E.g., cool roofs, Agrocrete (carbon-negative building material made of crop residues), Carbon Craft Tile (upcycled carbon by using recovered carbon waste as a resource). They are different from- o Energy-efficient (use less heat to heat, cool, and run appliances) o Net zero carbon buildings (achieve zero carbon emission by cutting energy consumption and using on- site/off-site renewable energy sources) Advantages Green buildings consume 25% less energy than traditional buildings. Building and construction sectors contribute about 38% of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Health benefits due to non usage of harmful substance. For e.g Not using volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Economic: Global green building materials market projected to grow from $422.27 billion in 2023 to $951.15 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 12.3% Other: Low maintenance cost, Reduced Waste, Increased Building Durability, improved Water Efficiency etc. Initiatives taken: Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) (2007 revised in 2017) by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). Eco-Niwas Samhita 2018 by Ministry of Power is ECBC for Residential Buildings. Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA by The Energy & Resources Institute (TERI) and Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), uses a five-star rating, valid for five years. Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), India’s Premier Certification Body, established by Confederation of Indian Industry in 2001, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) by U.S. Green Building Council. Star Rating of Commercial Buildings launched by Ministry of Power. Way Forward Finance Commissions & Local bodies should encourage green buildings through tax incentives. Green projects need long-term investment through the issuance of green bonds. Retrofitting of existing buildings; etc. 4.7.2. ENVIRONMENTAL MOVEMENTS IN INDIA Why in the news? 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of the Chipko movement. About Chipko movement The Chipko movement was a nonviolent resistance against forest cutting in the Reni village in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. Origin: Dates back to the 18th century and was started by Rajasthan’s Bishnoi community. Led by Amrita Devi against the orders of then King of Jodhpur. Resulted in passing of a royal decree that banned cutting of trees in all Bishnoi villages. Movement’s leaders/activists: Primarily village women Major leaders: Sunderlal Bahuguna, Chandi Prasad Bhatt, Gaura Devi,etc. It is renowned for its collective mobilization of women to conserve forests, manifesting the philosophy of Eco-feminism. About Eco-feminism It is a philosophical and political movement that examines connections between ecological concerns and women. It contends that our culture is dominated by a capitalist patriarchal system, where societal values and ethics are dictated by a profit-driven, sexist, and male-centric society. Reasons behind emergence of Eco-feminism: o Interconnectedness of exploitation and degradation of the natural environment and the subjugation of women in patriarchal societies. o Significance of traditional knowledge often held and transmitted by women  o Women’s lived experiences where women have close and direct relationship with natural environment. o Contemporary relevance: Critique of capitalist exploitation, valuing traditional ecological knowledge, recognition of Environmental Justice, etc. Major environmental movements Silent Valley Movement (1973) against hydro-electric dam on Kundapuzha River, Kerala. Appiko movement (1983) led by Panduranga Hegde in Karnataka. Inspired by the Chipko movement and included women in Karnataka's Western Ghats. Narmada Bachao Andolan (1985) against large dam on Narmada. Other important environmental movements: Chilika Bachao Andolan, Against Bauxite Mining in Kashipur, Gandhamardan Environment Protection, etc. Impacts of Environmental Movements in India Leadership to women, E.g., Gaura Devi. Push to Environmental Policy and Legislation such as Forest Right Act 2006, Legacy of nonviolent protests including Gandhian Concept of nonviolence and Satyagraha. Sustainable development E.g., Narmada Bachao Andolan. Protecting cultural identity; advocated the ideology of ‘environmentalism of the poor’ Way forward Alternative people friendly development plans for sustainable society. Enhance public participant of development by campaigning for laws Technical and data related knowledge should be incorporated in the movement Link local and global issues such as resource conservation and environmental protection Promoting individual action along with movements. E.g., LiFEStyle for Environment (LiFE) Indian Customs and tradition for sustainable development Compassionate capitalism: Gandhiji’s Sarvodaya, Indian tradition (uplifting and providing equal opportunities to all). Circular economy; Energy Conservation (utilizing local materials like bamboo, stones, etc.) Sacred groves: Patches of forests/natural vegetation dedicated to local folk deities (Example – Ayyanar and A