VisionIAS PT 365 January 2025 Environment PDF

(April 2024 to October 2024)  ENVIRONMENT Table of Contents 2.2.7. Antarctic Treaty ___________________ 38...

(April 2024 to October 2024)  ENVIRONMENT Table of Contents 2.2.7. Antarctic Treaty ___________________ 38 1. BIODIVERSITY _____________________ 5 2.2.8. Other Initiatives in the News _________ 39 1.1. Wildlife and Conservation ____________ 5 2.3. Climate Mitigation and Adaptation ____ 41 1.1.1. Red List of Threatened Species _________ 5 2.3.1. Green Credit Rule __________________ 41 1.1.2. Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes 2.3.2. Greenwashing _____________________ 42 Conference (SFTLC) _______________________ 6 2.3.3. Direct Air Capture and Storage (DAC+S) Plant 1.1.3. International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) _____ 7 _____________________________________ 43 1.1.4. Elephant Census, 2023 ________________ 7 2.3.4. CO2-to-Methanol Conversion _________ 44 1.1.5. State of the Rhino 2024 Report _________ 9 2.3.5. Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) 45 1.1.6. Great Indian Bustard ________________ 10 1.1.7. Crocodile Conservation Project ________ 11 2.4. Terms in the News _________________ 45 1.1.8. Funga: Recognition and Conservation ___ 12 2.4.1. Carbon Farming ___________________ 45 1.1.9. World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) 2.4.2. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms 46 ______________________________________ 13 2.4.3. Keeling Curve _____________________ 46 1.1.10. Eco Sensitive Areas ________________ 14 2.4.4. Greenium (green premium) __________ 46 1.1.11. Other Related News ________________ 16 2.4.5. Teal Carbon _______________________ 46 2.4.6. Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 1.2. Forests ___________________________ 17 _____________________________________ 47 1.2.1. UN-REDD _________________________ 17 2.4.7. Water Credit ______________________ 47 1.2.2. International Arrangement on Forests (IAF)18 2.4.8. Biodiversity Credits _________________ 47 1.2.3. Mangroves Conservation _____________ 19 2.4.9. Glacial Geoengineering ______________ 47 1.2.4. Other Related News _________________ 20 2.5. Organizations in News ______________ 48 1.3. Wetlands, Coastland and Oceans _____ 21 2.5.1. United Nations Environment Programme 1.3.1. High Seas Treaty ____________________ 21 (UNEP) ________________________________ 48 1.3.2. Coral Bleaching ____________________ 22 2.5.2. World Meteorological Organization (WMO)49 1.3.3. Ramsar Sites _______________________ 23 2.5.3. International Cryosphere Climate Initiative50 1.3.4. Other Wetlands in News _____________ 25 1.3.5. Other Related News _________________ 25 3. POLLUTION _______________________ 51 1.3.6. Terms in the News __________________ 26 3.1. Air Pollution ______________________ 51 1.4. Organizations in News ______________ 28 3.1.1. Air Quality Management Exchange Platform 1.4.1. Convention on International Trade in (AQMx) _______________________________ 51 Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) 3.1.2. Flue gas Desulphurization____________ 52 ______________________________________ 28 1.4.2. International Union for Conservation of 3.2. Water Pollution and Conservation ____ 53 Nature (IUCN) ___________________________ 29 3.2.1. Water Conservation ________________ 53 1.4.3. World Wildlife Fund (WWF) ___________ 30 3.2.2. Jal Hi Amrit _______________________ 54 3.2.3. Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari ____________ 54 2. CLIMATE CHANGE _________________ 31 3.2.4. Other related News ________________ 55 2.1. Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) 3.3. Waste Management ________________ 56 ____________________________________ 31 3.3.1. Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) Fund _____________________________________ 56 2.2. International Conferences, Conventions and 3.3.2. E-waste __________________________ 57 Initiatives ____________________________ 31 3.3.3. Battery Waste Management _________ 58 2.2.1. UNFCCC COP29 ____________________ 31 2.2.2. Key Initiatives/Declarations Launched at 3.4. Other types of Pollution _____________ 59 COP29 _________________________________ 33 3.4.1. Plastic Pollution ___________________ 59 2.2.3. India at COP29 _____________________ 34 3.4.2. Mercury Pollution __________________ 60 2.2.4. Article 6 __________________________ 35 3.4.3. Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) ___ 61 2.2.5. Climate Finance ____________________ 36 3.4.4. Pollutants in News _________________ 61 2.2.6. Global Environment Facility (GEF) ______ 37 1 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  3.5. Terms in the News _________________ 62 4.7.5. Superhydrophic Catalyst _____________ 84 3.5.1. Soil Acidification ____________________ 62 4.7.6. Business Responsibility and Sustainability 3.5.2. Biocover __________________________ 62 Reporting (BRSR) ________________________ 84 3.5.3. Grasshopper effect _________________ 63 4.7.7. Critical Energy Transition Minerals (CETMs)85 3.5.4. Aquatic Deoxygenation (AD) and Planetary 4.7.8. Biomass Briquettes _________________ 85 Boundaries _____________________________ 63 4.7.9. Parivesh Portal ____________________ 85 3.5.5. Carbonate Compensation Depth (CCD) __ 64 4.8. Organizations in News ______________ 86 3.5.6. Hydrogel __________________________ 64 4.8.1. International Solar Alliance (ISA) ______ 86 3.5.7. Bioplastics ________________________ 64 4.8.2. International Energy Agency (IEA) _____ 87 3.5.8. Steel Slag _________________________ 64 4.8.3. International Renewable Energy Agency 3.5.9. Aerobiology Advancements ___________ 65 (IRENA) _______________________________ 88 3.5.10. Gas Flaring _______________________ 65 4.8.4. UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs 3.5.11. Light pollution ____________________ 65 (UN DESA) _____________________________ 89 3.5.12. Bio-Bitumen ______________________ 65 4.8.5. UN Sustainable Development Solutions 3.6. Miscellaneous _____________________ 66 Network (SDSN) ________________________ 89 3.6.1. White Category Industries ____________ 66 4.8.6. International Energy Efficiency Hub (IEEH)90 3.6.2. Emissions from Rocket and satellite launch66 4.8.7. World Energy Council _______________ 90 3.6.3. Annual Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) Atlas 4.8.8. International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) - of India ________________________________ 67 South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) _________ 91 3.6.4. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) __ 67 5. DISASTER MANAGEMENT ___________ 92 3.7. Organizations in News ______________ 68 3.7.1. National Green Tribunal______________ 68 5.1. Infrastructure for Resilient Island States 3.7.2. Central Ground water Board (CGWB) ___ 69 (IRIS) ________________________________ 92 3.7.3. Committee for Air Quality Management _ 70 5.1.1. United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)______________________ 93 4. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ________ 71 5.2. Marine Heatwaves (MHWs) __________ 93 4.1. SDG India Index 2023-24 ____________ 71 5.3. Cyclone __________________________ 94 4.2. Chipko movement _________________ 72 5.4. Glacial Lakes Outburst Floods (GLOFs) _ 96 4.3. System of Environmental-Economic 5.5. Oil Spills __________________________ 98 Accounting (SEEA) _____________________ 72 5.5.1. Landslide _________________________ 98 4.4. Alternative Fuels/Energy and Energy 5.6. Weather Forecasting _______________ 99 Efficiency ____________________________ 74 5.6.1. Localised Weather Forecasts _________ 99 4.4.1. Renewable Energy in India____________ 74 5.6.2. Drought Early Warning System (DEWS) 100 4.4.2. Just Energy Transition _______________ 74 5.6.3. Polar Coupled Analysis and Prediction for 4.4.3. Offshore Wind Energy _______________ 75 Services (PCAPS) _______________________ 100 4.4.4. National Green Hydrogen Mission _____ 76 4.4.5. Geothermal Energy _________________ 78 5.7. Other Disaster Related News ________ 101 4.4.6. Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) ___ 78 5.7.1. Parametric Insurance ______________ 101 5.7.2. Recovery and Reconstruction (R&R) Funding 4.5. Sustainable Agriculture _____________ 79 Window ______________________________ 101 4.5.1. Natural Farming ____________________ 79 5.7.3. Floodwatch India _________________ 101 4.5.2. National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) 81 5.7.4. EW4All __________________________ 101 4.5.3. Food Waste Index __________________ 81 5.7.5. Exercise AIKYA____________________ 102 4.5.4. Other Sustainable Practices in News ____ 82 5.8. Organizations in News _____________ 102 4.6. Miscellaneous _____________________ 82 5.8.1. Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure 4.6.1. Illegal Sand Mining __________________ 82 (CDRI) _______________________________ 102 4.7. Other Important News ______________ 83 6. GEOGRAPHY _____________________ 103 4.7.1. Ecomark __________________________ 83 4.7.2. Ethanol 100 _______________________ 84 6.1. El Nino and La Nina ________________ 103 4.7.3. RETAP ____________________________ 84 4.7.4. Bio-CNG __________________________ 84 6.2. Nor’westers ______________________ 103 2 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  6.3. Undersea Features in Indian Ocean __ 104 6.5.14. Heat Budget of the Earth __________ 109 6.5.15. Kallakkadal _____________________ 109 6.4. Geoparks ________________________ 105 7. PLACES IN NEWS __________________ 110 6.5. Terms/Concepts in the NEWS _______ 106 6.5.1. Baseflow _________________________ 106 7.1. India ____________________________ 110 6.5.2. Equatorial Plasma Bubbles (EPBs) _____ 106 7.1.1. Rivers___________________________ 110 6.5.3. Atmospheric Rivers (AR) ____________ 106 7.1.2. Other Places _____________________ 111 6.5.4. Negative Leap Second ______________ 106 6.5.5. Zero Shadow Day __________________ 107 7.2. International _____________________ 112 6.5.6. Blue Hole ________________________ 107 7.2.1. Water Bodies ____________________ 112 6.5.7. Heat Dome _______________________ 107 7.2.2. Other Geographical Features ________ 113 7.2.3. Countries in the News _____________ 114 6.5.8. Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS)107 6.5.9. Ringwoodite Ocean ________________ 107 7.2.4. Disaster Affected areas_____________ 115 6.5.10. Earth’s Mantle ___________________ 108 8. PROTECTED AREAS IN THE NEWS ____ 116 6.5.11. Isostasy _________________________ 108 6.5.12. Earth's Magnetic Field _____________ 108 9. SPECIES IN THE NEWS ______________ 122 6.5.13. Cold Lava _______________________ 109 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. 3 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  4 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  1. BIODIVERSITY 1.1. WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION 1.1.1. RED LIST OF THREATENED SPECIES Why in the News? Recently, IUCN updated its red list of Threatened species. About red List of Threatened Species Provides information about animal, plant, and fungus species which are at risk of extinction into nine categories. (Refer to the infographic below). Key Updates: Species with Changed Status Species Updated status Location & Other specification La Gomera giant lizard Endangered (Previously Critically Canary Island (Spain) (Gallotia bravoana) Endangered) Copiapoa cacti 82% of species at risk of extinction Ornamental Cacti, endemic to Atacama coastal desert in Chile Gran Canaria giant lizard Critically Endangered (Previously Endemic Reptile in Canary Island Least Concern) (Spain) Gran Canaria skink Endangered (Previously Least In the Canary Islands, Spain Concern) Ibiza wall lizard Endangered (Previously Near Islands of Ibiza and Formentera (Spain) Threatened) Bornean Elephant Endangered Smallest Elephant with wider face found in Borneo and Sumatra Island 5 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  1.1.2. SUSTAINABLE FINANCE FOR TIGER LANDSCAPES CONFERENCE (SFTLC) Why in the news? Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes Conference (SFTLC) was hosted by the Bhutan government and supported by the Tiger Conservation Coalition (TCC). About SFTLC and TCC SFTLC seeks to increase support for tiger protection and its landscape by using new financial strategies and global partnerships as stated in the Paro statement. o Seeks to mobilize US$1 billion in additional funding by 2034. Tiger Conservation Coalition is Independent group of organizations brings together leading biologists and experts in wildlife with focus on achieving tiger conservation. o Members’ organizations: International Union for Conservation of Nature, United Nations Development Programme, the Wildlife Conservation Society, the World Wide Fund for Nature, etc. Sustainable financing initiatives launched in SFTLC- o Tiger Landscapes Investment Fund: Presented by the UNDP. Uses Nature-positive business approach. o Tiger Bonds: By the Asian Development Bank to engage private sector investors. Note: As per the amendments made under the ‘Wild life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022’, all species that are covered under Appendices of CITES are now listed under Schedule IV of the Act. 6 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  Related terms Tiger Landscape It includes large blocks of ecologically connected areas of suitable tiger habitat, currently, they comprise less than 8% of area originally occupied in Asia. Landscapes in India: Shivalik Hills and Gangetic Plain; North East Hills and Brahmaputra Flood plains; Sundarbans Landscape; Central India & Easter Ghats Landscape; Western Ghats Landscape. 1.1.3. INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE (IBCA) Why in the news? Union Cabinet approved the proposal of India to become a member of IBCA by signing and ratification of the Framework Agreement. About IBCA Launched: By India on 50th years of India's Project Tiger in 2023. o Apart from India, Nicaragua, Eswatini and Somalia have also joined. HQ: India Aim: Strengthen global cooperation for the conservation of seven big cat species (tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma) and their habitats. o India inhabits all cats except Puma and Jaguar. Multi-country and multi-agency coalition: Participants consist of 95 big cat range countries, non-range countries interested in big cat conservation, conservation partners and related scientific organizations. o All UN member countries are eligible for becoming the member of IBCA. o Nine International Organizations have also consented to be partner organization. Funding: Support of Rs. 150 crores for five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28. Conservation Status of Big Cats in India IUCN Status: Endangered (Tiger), Vulnerable (Lion, Cheetah, Snow Leopard, Leopard), Near Threatened (Jaguar) and Least concern (Puma) All five big cats in India are listed in Schedule 1 and 4 of Wildlife Protection Act and CITES Appendix 1.1.4. ELEPHANT CENSUS, 2023 Why in the News? Recently, synchronized elephant population census 2023 has been done in the Southern States. Key Findings Karnataka tops among the Southern States with over 6000 elephants. High death rate (40%) among Juvenile elephants (aged 10 and below) attributed to the Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesviruses (EEHVs). 7 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  8 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  1.1.5. STATE OF THE RHINO 2024 REPORT Why in the news? International Rhino Foundation (IRF) released the State of the Rhino, 2024 Report. More on the news IRF, initially called International Black Rhino Foundation in 1991, is dedicated to survival of world’s rhino species. Key findings of report o With all five species combined, there are just under 28,000 rhinos left in world. o Rhino poaching in Africa increased by 4% from 2022 to 2023. o Number of white rhinos increased but greater one-horned rhino (Indian Rhino) number remained same. About Rhino Five species of rhino: 2 African (White Rhino, Black Rhino) and 3 Asian (Indian rhino, Sumatran Rhino, and Javan Rhino). Rhino conservation initiatives: National Rhino Conservation Strategy 2019 to conserve Indian rhino; New Delhi Declaration on Asian Rhinos 2019; Indian Rhino Vision 2020 etc. Difference between African Rhino and Asian Rhino Features African Rhino Asian Rhino Size White Rhino is second-largest land Indian Rhino is largest of all Asian mammals after elephants. rhino species. Appearance and Less armoured look More armoured look Behaviour More aggressive Less aggressive 2 horns 2 horns (Sumatran rhino) and 1 horn Poor swimmers and they can drown in (Indian Rhino and Javan rhinos) deep water (so they wallow in mud) Good swimmers Fights with their horns Fights with its bottom teeth 9 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  Feed low to the ground Graze on tall grasses, shrubs, leaves. Habitat Grasslands, savannas and shrublands; Tropical and subtropical grasslands deserts and savannahs, Tropical moist forests Conservation White Rhino Indian Rhino status (IUCN) Black Rhino Sumatran Rhino and Javan Rhino 1.1.6. GREAT INDIAN BUSTARD Why in the News? Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) approved funds for next phase (from 2024 to 2029) of Bustard Recovery Program. Bustard Recovery Program Coverage of species: Great Indian Bustard (GIB) and Lesser Florican (2 of the 4 bustard species). Other two are Bengal Florican; Macqueen's Bustard. Background: First started in 2013, changed to Bustard Recovery Project in 2016. o Extended till 2033. Project implemented by: Wildlife Institute of India Funding agency: National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) Authority Partner agencies: Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change Rajasthan Forest Department Gujarat & Maharashtra Forest Departments Project Objectives: Conservation Breeding (Secure ex-situ population), Applied Research, Capacity- Building and Outreach, Pilot Implementation of Surgical Habitat Management. Collaborating agencies: o Bombay Natural History Society: Established in 1883. o Others: International Fund for Houbara Conservation / Reneco; The Corbett Foundation; Humane Society International; Jivdaya Charitable Trust; The Grasslands Trust. About Lesser Florican (Sypheotides indicus) Smallest bird of the bustard family (Otididae). Protection status: Habitat: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh. Threats: Pesticide usage in breeding grounds; Mismanagement of agro-grasslands, etc. 10 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  Related News Supreme Court order on Ban on power lines Recently, the Supreme Court modified its earlier order regarding restrictions on setting up of overhead transmission lines. Judgement of the SC o Removed blanket direction for undergrounding high voltage and low voltage power lines in the entire region. o Constituted an Expert Committee to determine the scope, feasibility, and extent of overhead and underground electric lines in the area identified as priority areas. 1.1.7. CROCODILE CONSERVATION PROJECT Why in the News? Recently, Crocodile Conservation Project completed its 50 years. About Crocodile Conservation Project India launched its Crocodile Conservation Project in Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park in 1975 with the assistance of United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). 11 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  About Bhitarkanika National Park It is a Ramsar site, located in Odisha, and is the India’s second largest mangrove ecosystem after the Sunderbans. It is essentially a network of creeks and canals which are inundated with waters from rivers Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra and Patasala. Home to largest congregation of Saltwater Crocodile along with water monitor lizard, pythons, hyenas etc. About Crocodiles Crocodiles are largest surviving species of the vertebrate class Reptilia. Habitat: Except for one saltwater species, crocodiles live mainly in freshwater swamps, lakes and rivers. Behaviour: Nocturnal animals and are poikilothermic (regulate their body temperature only to limited degree). 1.1.8. FUNGA: RECOGNITION AND CONSERVATION Why in the news? The Fungi Foundation through UN Biodiversity urged people globally to use the word ‘Funga’ whenever they say, ‘flora and fauna’, as part of the trinity of life on Earth. About Funga/Fungi Meaning: Refers to the levels of diversity of fungi in any given place. (Fungi is one of five kingdoms in the classification of organisms given by R.H. Whittaker). Diversity: Vary from single-celled organisms to complex multicellular organisms. Distribution: From tropical, temperate to arctic regions in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Characteristics: o Have a Cell wall with Chitin o Mode of nutrition: Heterotrophic (Saprophytic/Parasitic) o Body organization: Multicellular/Loose tissue Significance of Fungi Mycorrhizal: Mutually beneficial associations with the roots of plants for trees’ growth. Carbon reservoirs: Storing carbon. Decomposition and nutrient cycling: Act as decomposers converting debris to humus. 12 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  Mycoremediation: Assist in the degradation of contaminants such as plastics. Medicine: Antibiotic (Penicillin) and Potential Psychotherapy (Psilocybin) etc. Focus in International Organisation o IUCN Species Survival Commission Fungal Conservation Committee (FunCC) o Global Fungal Red List Initiative. o Chile is the only country that considers Fungi in its law for conservation. Comparing Flora, Fauna and Funga (3Fs) Aspect Flora Fauna Funga Kingdom Plantae (Plants) Animalia (Animals) Fungi Examples Algae, Flowers, Trees Insects, Reptiles, Mammals Mushrooms, molds, yeasts Reproduction Through seeds, spores, Through sexual and asexual Through Spores or vegetative propagation reproduction asexual reproduction Role in ecosystem Primary producer Consumer, Prey, and predator Decomposers 1.1.9. WORLD NETWORK OF BIOSPHERE RESERVES (WNBR) Why in the News? UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) added 11 new biosphere reserves from countries like Colombia, etc. under the Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme. More on the News WNBR now totals 759 sites in 136 countries. About MAB Programme Launched in 1971 as an intergovernmental scientific programme. Aim: Establish a scientific basis for enhancing relationship between people and environments. Out of 18 biosphere reserve in India, 12 are recognised under it (refer to map). o Niligiri Biosphere Reserves was first to be recognized. About Biosphere Reserves (in situ conservation) Areas representing diverse natural and cultural landscapes across terrestrial, coastal, or marine ecosystems. Consists of three main zones- o Core areas: Strictly protected zone o Buffer zones: Used for activities compatible with sound ecological practices that can reinforce scientific research, etc. o Transition area: Communities foster socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable activities. 13 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  1.1.10. ECO SENSITIVE AREAS Why in the News? Karnataka government rejected the Kasturirangan committee report on the protection of the fragile Western Ghats region from environmental degradation. About Kasturirangan committee Proposes that 37% of the total area of Western Ghats, roughly 60,000 square kilometres as Eco-sensitive Area (ESA). Out of total are of proposed ESA, maximum is in Karnataka followed by Maharashtra. Eco Sensitive Areas/Zones Defined as areas/zones with identified environmental resources having incomparable values requiring special attention for their conservation” because of its landscape, wildlife, biodiversity, historical and natural values. (National Environment Policy, 2006) Notified by central government under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Purpose o Protect environment and avoid its degradation due to anthropogenic activities. 14 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  o Create a kind of barrier/ shock absorber for the specialised ecosystem (PAs). o Act as transition zone from areas of higher protection to areas involving lesser protection. o Activities in the ESZ are generally regulated and not prohibitory in nature. ESZ Guidelines classify activities under three categories: o Prohibited: Commercial Mining, Setting of industries causing pollution, etc. o Regulated: Felling of Trees, Establishment of hotels and resorts, etc. o Permitted: Ongoing agriculture and horticulture practices by local communities, dairy farming, etc. About Western Ghats Geographical features Passes: Palghat Gap; Thal and Bhor ghat Elevation: Progressively increases from north to south. (Highest Peak: Anamudi) Forests: 4 major types (evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous, and dry deciduous). Minerals: Rich in iron, manganese and bauxite ores Other key information: Regional names: Sahyadri (Maharashtra), Nilgiri hills (Karnataka and Tamil Nadu), Anaimalai hills and Cardamom hills (Kerala and Tamil Nadu). One of the world’s eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity. Covers 6% of the land area of India with more than 30% of all plant, fish, herpeto-fauna, bird, and mammal species found in India. Declared UNESCO Word heritage site in 2012. Endemic species: Nilgiri Tahr and the Lion-tailed Steps taken for Protecting Western Ghats Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) (2011) or The Madhav Gadgil committee: o Recommended designating the entire region as an ‘Ecologically Sensitive Area’. o Divides into 3 zones: ESZ1 (very high sensitivity), ESZ2(high sensitivity) and ESZ 3 (moderate sensitivity). High Level Working Group (HLWG) headed by Dr. K. Kasturirangan: Recommends color coding of industries; extending entry 20 (Economic Planning) of the concurrent list to regulate development within ecological framework, etc. 6th iteration of a draft notification of Western Ghats Eco-sensitive Area, declaring 56,825.7 sq km of the Western Ghats an ecologically sensitive area by Central Government. Brahmagiri hills case: National Green Tribunal (NGT) asked Environment Ministry to finalise a deadline for declaring the Western Ghats an eco-sensitive zone. 15 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  1.1.11. OTHER RELATED NEWS 1.1.11.1. INTERGOVERNMENTAL PLATFORM ON BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEM SERVICES (IPBES) IPBES won Blue Planet Prize for 2024 that is awarded annually by Japan based Asahi Glass Foundation. About IPBES Established in Panama City in 2012, it is an independent intergovernmental body to strengthen science- policy interface for biodiversity and ecosystem services. It is not a UN body. However, United Nations Environment Programme provides secretariat services to IPBES. Secretariat: Bonn, Germany Currently, it has more than 145 member States (including India). All States Members of UN are eligible for IPBES membership 1.1.11.2. INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT OF WILDLIFE HABITATS (IDWH) Recently, Union Cabinet approved continuation of Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) for the 15th Finance Commission cycle. About IDWH Objective: Centrally sponsored umbrella scheme by Ministry of Environment. Components of IDWH o Support to protected areas (national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation reserves, and community reserves). o Protection of wildlife outside protected areas. o Recovery programs for saving critically endangered species and habitats.  So far, 22 species have been identified under the Species recovery program. Sub-schemes Under IDWH: Project Tiger (1973), Project Dolphin and Project Lion and Project Elephant (1992) 1.1.11.3. PEOPLE’S BIODIVERSITY REGISTER (PBR) Thazhakara panchayat in Kerala recently published their updated PBR. About PBR Statutory recognition: The Biological Diversity Act (2002), Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) to prepare PBR in consultation with local people Purpose: To document and safeguard bioresources and associated knowledge. Information in PBR: o Availability and knowledge of local biological resources, their medicinal or any other use. o Any other traditional knowledge associated with them. Relevance: o Supports claims of local ownership of biodiversity & traditional knowledge. o Helps sustainable resource management. 1.1.11.4. ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE INDEX (EPI), 2024 Recently, EPI 2024 has been published by Yale Center for Environmental Law & Policy. About EPI, 2024 Using 58 performance indicators across 11 issue categories, EPI ranks 180 countries on climate change performance, environmental health, and ecosystem vitality. Estonia tops the list. 16 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  India-related Findings: o India has been ranked 176. o In 2022, India surpassed China as the world’s largest emitter of anthropogenic SO2. 1.1.11.5. NATURE CONSERVATION INDEX (NCI) The Nature Conservation Index (2024) was released by Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change. About NCI India’s Rank: 176 out of 180 countries. It evaluates conservation efforts using four markers: Land management, Threats to biodiversity, Capacity and governance, and Future trends. 1.1.11.6. CAMELS UN declared 2024 as International Year of Camelids (members of camel family) to build awareness of untapped potential of camelids. About camels Camels are found in Africa and Asia. Types: Dromedary or Arabian camel (single hump) and Bactrian camel (two humps). Domesticated by people, Mammals, Herbivores, survive in hot conditions (Draught animal). Camels in India o State animal of Rajasthan. o Kharai Camel swim long distances (3 km at a time) in sea to eat Mangroves; found in Kutch (Gujarat). o Bactrian camels are found in Ladakh’s Nubra Valley. o Dromedaries camel are found in hot deserts (Rajasthan, Gujarat). Other types of camelids: Llama; Alpaca; Alpaca; Guanaco; Vicuña etc. 1.2. FORESTS 1.2.1. UN-REDD Why in the News? United Nations Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (UN-REDD) report titled “Raising Ambition, Accelerating Action: Towards Enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions for Forests" has been launched. Key-findings of report Only 8 of the top 20 countries with highest rate of tropical deforestation have quantified targets on forests in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) plan. 11 of the NDCs contain quantified targets relating to afforestation and, reforestation, mitigating climate change requires reducing deforestation first. 17 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  About UN-REDD Flagship UN knowledge and advisory programme on forests and climate, with focus on advancing the Paris Agreement. o It is the largest international provider of REDD+ assistance, Genesis: It was launched in 2008 and builds on the technical expertise of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Partner Countries: 65, including India. About REDD+ The framework is commonly referred to as the Warsaw Framework for REDD+ (WFR) adopted at 19th session of the Conference of Parties (COP 19) to the UNFCCC in 2013. REDD+ goes beyond simply deforestation and forest degradation and includes the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks. 1.2.2. INTERNATIONAL ARRANGEMENT ON FORESTS (IAF) Why in the news? Recently, the 19 th Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) under the International Arrangement on Forests (IAF) concluded. Key takeaways of the UNFF19 meeting: World is off track to achieve the Global Forest Goals by 2030. Members reaffirmed the UN Strategic Plan for Forests 2017-2030 (UNSPF) India tabled its significant increase in forest cover in the past 10 years through a scientific approach to Sustainable Forest Management (SFM). o Total forest and tree cover has increased by 2261 sq km., taking the total to 24.62% of the total geographic area. (ISFR 2019-2021 assessment) o 17 states have more than 33% of their area under forest cover. UN Strategic Plan for Forests under UNFF (2017-2030) Forged at a special session of the UN Forum on Forests held in 2017 and provides an ambitious vision for global forests in 2030. All members of UN are members of UNFF (Including India). Contains a set of six Global Forest Goals and 26 associated targets achieved by 2030, which are voluntary and universal. It includes a target to increase forest area by 3% worldwide by 2030, signifying an increase of 120 million hectares, It builds on the vision of the 2030 Agenda. Report: Global Forest Goals (GFGs), flagship UN report on forests. International Arrangement on Forests (IAF) About: Established in 2000 as a successor to the Intergovernmental Panel on Forests (1995-97) and the Intergovernmental Forum on Forests (1997-2000). Objectives: Promote the management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests and to strengthen long-term political commitment to this end. 18 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  Five Components o United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF): Established in 2000 as a functional commission of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), facilitates Sustainable Forest Management (SFM). o Collaborative Partnership on Forests (CPF): Innovative voluntary interagency partnership on forests, established in 2001  It comprises of 16 international organizations like the IUCN, CITES, FAO etc. o The Global Forest Financing Facilitation Network (GFFFN) o UN Trust Fund: Supports the activities of the UNFF and other components of the International Arrangement on Forests (IAF). The contributions are voluntary. o UNFF Secretariat: Also serves as the secretariat for CPF. Related News International Forest Governance (IFG) A non-profit organisation has released report titled International Forest Governance (IFG): A Critical Review of Trends, Drawbacks, and New Approaches. It is the first global synthesis report on IFG since 2010, summarises the most significant developments on IFG after 2010. Report has been released in the backdrop of the 19th session of the UN Forum on Forests (UNFF19). IFG is comprised of the policy, legal and institutional frameworks for international decision-making on forests. Its stakeholders include- 1.2.3. MANGROVES CONSERVATION Why in the news? Recently, the IUCN Red List of Mangroves Ecosystems indicated that about 50% of the ecosystems examined were classified as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered. More on the news IUCN Red List of Mangroves Ecosystems assessed 36 regions across 44 countries. o It is one of the headline indicators for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The mangrove ecosystems of south India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Northwest Atlantic were identified as critically endangered. Status of Indian Mangroves: Andaman and Bay of Bengal (Least Concern), South India (Critically Endangered), West India (Vulnerable). About Mangroves and Ecosystem services provided About: Located primarily on tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate coasts covering approximately 15% of the world’s coastlines. Services provided by Mangroves: Carbon Sequestration (~11 billion tonnes, 3 times of amount stored in tropical forests of same size); Biodiversity Conservation, disaster risk reduction, etc. Status of Mangroves in India Mangroves in Lakshadweep archipelago and on coast of Tamil Nadu are critically endangered. (State of the World’s Mangroves 2024 by Global Mangrove Alliance) India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 by the Forest Survey of India (FSI): Mangrove cover in India has increased by 17 sq km (0.34%) compared to the previous assessment. Major Locations in India: Andaman and Nicobar Islands; Sunderbans of West Bengal; Mahanadi, Godavari and Krishna deltas etc. India’s Initiatives for Mangrove Conservation: MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes): Under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEF & CC). 19 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  Sustainable Aquaculture In Mangrove Ecosystem (SAIME) initiative: Building aquaculture farms using IMA (integrated mangrove aquaculture) systems. Magical Mangroves campaign: WWF India has enjoined citizens in nine coastal states on mangrove conservation. National Coastal Mission Programme on ‘Conservation and Management of Mangroves and Coral Reefs’. Global Initiatives Mangrove Breakthrough: Launched at UNFCCC COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, by the United Nations High Level Climate Champions and the Global Mangrove Alliance. Target of securing the future of over 15 million hectares of mangroves globally by 2030, underpinned by $4bn of sustainable finance. 1.2.4. OTHER RELATED NEWS 1.2.4.1. FOREST ADVISORY COMMITTEE (FAC) FAC has exempted surveys involving drilling and felling of up to 100 trees for hydro and other developmental projects in forest areas. About Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) Statutory body under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 under MoEF&CC. Approves diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes. Assesses land request validity, evaluates impact minimization plans, and considers potential damage to local ecology and wildlife habitats. Role of FAC is recommendatory in nature so far as diversion of forest land for purpose of non-forestry use is concerned. 1.2.4.2. FOREST ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION INITIATIVE Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) marks the 10th anniversary of the Forest Ecosystem Restoration Initiative (FERI). About FERI Launched as a partnership between the Korea Forest Service (KFS) and the CBD Secretariat. Implemented by CBD Secretariat. Designed to assist developing countries in operationalizing national targets and plans in line with Aichi Biodiversity Targets 5, 14 and 15. Supports the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). FERI’s initiatives: o Adoption of a Short-Term Action Plan on Ecosystem Restoration (STAPER), at COP13 in 2016. o WePlan – Forests Platform: A decision support tool for tropical forest ecosystem restoration. 1.2.4.3. EU’S NATURE RESTORATION PLAN (NRP) European Union approves NRP, first of its kind. About NRP It is a continent-wide and comprehensive law that forms part of the EU’s European Green Deal (aims for net zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050). Key Features o Aim: Contains binding restoration targets for long-term recovery of nature in EU’s land and sea areas.  It seeks to recover at least 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, and all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050. 20 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  o Focus areas: Covers the existing legislation (for wetlands, forests, grasslands, etc.), pollinating insects, forest ecosystem, etc. o Implementation: Through National Restoration Plans of the EU countries. 1.2.4.4. EUROPEAN UNION DEFORESTATION REGULATION (EUDR) The European Commission has proposed to extend the implementation of the EUDR, by one year. About EUDR Aims to ensure that a set of key goods placed on the EU market will no longer contribute to deforestation and forest degradation in the EU and elsewhere in the world. Applies to a wide range of products including palm oil, soy, beef, cocoa, and timber. Requires companies to verify the origin of the products. Will act as a barrier for countries who export to the EU. 1.3. WETLANDS, COASTLAND AND OCEANS 1.3.1. HIGH SEAS TREATY Why in the news? Union Cabinet approved the signing of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement (High Seas Treaty). What are High Seas? As per UN Convention on Laws of the Seas (UNCLOS) demarcation, high seas are all parts of the sea that are not included in the exclusive economic zone, in the territorial sea or in the internal waters of a State, or in the archipelagic waters of an archipelagic State. UNCLOS demarcates different zones of the oceans as: o Territorial Sea: Upto 12 nautical miles from baseline. o Contiguous Zone: Upto 24 natical miles from baseline and acts as buffer zone; limited sovereignty o Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): Upto 200 nautical miles from baseline; no sovereignty of coastal state. Global Commons: High Seas (~64%) are considered global commons (belong to no one and everyone enjoys equal rights there). BBNJ Agreement Name: Agreement on Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction. o International treaty under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). o It will be the third implementation agreement under UNCLOS if and when it enters into force, alongside:  1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement (exploration and extraction of mineral resources)  1995 UN Fish Stocks Agreement (conservation and management of migratory fish stocks). Adoption: 2023 and is open for signature for two years. o It will be an international legally binding treaty. o 91 countries have signed, and eight Parties have ratified (June 2024). Objective: Conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction. Ministry of Earth Sciences will spearhead its implementation in India. Key Provisions of BBNJ Agreement Application: Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ), including high seas. (not applicable to any warship, military aircraft or naval auxiliary). 21 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  o Only Part-II (dealing with Marine Genetic Resources),applies to any government vessel in non- commercial service. Institutional Arrangement: Treaty establishes: o Conference of Parties (COP): Main decision-making body o Scientific and Technical Body (STB) o Clearing-House Mechanism (CHM): Open-access centralized platform. o Subject-Matter Committees. o Financial Mechanism: Includes voluntary trust fund; special trust fund and Gobal Facility Fund. Four Substantive Elements of BBNJ Treaty Marine Genetic Resources (MGR), including the fair and equitable sharing of benefits o MGR Mechanism also considers the rights and obligations associated with traditional knowledge of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. o No country must claim or exercise sovereignty over MGRs of ABNJ. Measures such as Area-Based Management Tools (ABMT), including Marine Protected Areas (MPA) o ABMT establishes well-connected networks of Marine Protected Areas. o To date, the largest international MPA is in Antarctica’s Ross Sea. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) Capacity-Building and the Transfer of Marine Technology UN Convention on Laws of the Seas (UNCLOS) About: Comprehensive international law for legitimate behaviour on, and use of, seas and oceans everywhere. o Adopted in 1982 and enforced in 1994. o Almost Universal Acceptance (170 state parties including India). Provisions: Defines rights and duties of nations regarding activities in the oceans, addresses issues on sovereignty, etc. Establishes International Seabed Authority (ISA) 1.3.2. CORAL BLEACHING Why in the news? Recently, widespread coral bleaching has been seen along the Indian coast largely affecting Lakshadweep, Gulf of Munnar, Palk Bay and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. More about the instances of bleaching Lakshadweep Islands: Made up of coral atolls, is at significant risk. o Bleaching is seen across almost all species like Acropora muricata and Porites cylindrica in the Kavaratti Islands. o Species that are often more stress-tolerant, such as Porites lutea and Pavona varians have also begun to bleach in Lakshadweep. Gulf of Mannar: The live coral cover in the Gulf of Mannar decreased from 37% to 27.3% between 2005 and 2021. Goa: Coral bleaching has started but is limited to one species, Goniopora. 22 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  About Corals and Coral Bleaching Corals are invertebrate animals belonging to a large group of animals called Cnidaria. o Generally classified as “hard coral” (reef building corals having rock-like calcareous skeleton) or “soft coral”. o Coral reefs are formed by polyps of hard corals, which establish symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae, called zooxanthellae, which give them their characteristic colours. Growth Conditions for Coral Reefs: Warm (23–29°C), salty (32-42 ppt), clear, shallow marine waters with stable temperatures and abundant sunlight. Significance of reefs: Often called rainforests of the ocean due to high biodiversity and productivity, support around 25% of marine life, minimize storm impact, promote tourism, act as carbon sink etc. Coral Bleaching: When corals are stressed by changes in conditions such as temperature, light, or nutrients, they expel symbiotic algae, causing them to turn completely white. o Presently, 2023-2024 is being named as the fourth global mass coral bleaching event. o Factors Responsible: Increased Ocean temperature due to climate change, runoff and pollution, extreme low tides, Ocean acidification, Biological invasion, Epizootics (Pathogen-induced bleaching), etc. Initiatives taken for coral conservation in India Legal: Acts like the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification of 1991 issued under the broad Environment Protection Act, 1986 , Coral Species are listed under Schedule-I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection), Act, 1972. Coral Reef Recovery Project-Mithapur (Gulf of Kachchh and Gujarat’s Marine National Park): Launched in 2008 by Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and Gujarat Forest Department. Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) with the Gujarat Forest Department successfully restored coral reefs in the Gulf of Kachchh. o Restoration of a branching coral species (staghorn corals) that had gone extinct about 10,000 years ago to the Gulf of Kachchh was successful. o It used biorock technology. Global Initiatives International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI): o Founded in 1994 at the First Conference of the Parties of the Convention on Biological Diversity. o India is a member of the ICRI. World Coral Conservatory project: It creates a bank of corals in aquariums across Europe Coral Research and Development Accelerator Platform by G20 Related News Artificial Reefs 300 artificial reefs were deployed off the coast of Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu). About Artificial Reefs o These are technology interventions used to rehabilitate or improve natural habitats. o They are placed on the sea bed with a fixed scientific design and functions as a self-sustaining production system. o They mimic the characteristics of a natural reef. o Materials Used: Rocks, cinder blocks, wood, old tires, limestone, steel, concrete. o Department of Fisheries is promoting it under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana for rejuvenating coastal fisheries 1.3.3. RAMSAR SITES Why in the news? Recently, new wetlands from India were added to the Ramsar list taking the total number of sites to 85. 23 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  About the added sites Wetland Specifications Nagi and Nakti bird Both are man-made reservoirs (Nagi dam and Nakti dam) and feature dry sanctuaries (Bihar) deciduous forests surrounded by hills. Although Nagi lies in the Gangetic Plains of India, it has a landscape reminiscent of the Deccan Plateau. They are recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) by BirdLife International. Nanjarayan Bird Nanjarayan Lake a large shallow wetland named after King Nanjarayan (who Sanctuary (Tamil restored and repaired it). Nadu) It depends on heavy rain water flow from Nallar drainage. Kazhuveli Bird Brackish shallow lake located on Coromandel Coast in North of Pondicherry. Sanctuary (Tamil Connected to Bay of Bengal by brackish Uppukalli creek and Yedayanthittu Nadu) estuary. Lies in Central Asian Flyway of migratory species. Tawa Reservoir Located inside Satpura Tiger Reserve and borders Satpura National Park and (Madhya Pradesh) Bori Wildlife Sanctuary. Constructed at confluence of Tawa and Denwa rivers. About Wetlands An area of land that is saturated with water. Wetland must meet at least 1 of 9 criteria like regularly supports 20,000 or more water birds, or conserving biological diversity etc. Significance: o Biodiversity Hotspots: Wetlands cover only 6% of Earth's surface but support ~40% of global biodiversity. o Function as its kidneys of the Earth, as aquatic plants absorb heavy metals and excess nutrients. o Others: Nutrient Cycling, Carbon Sequestration, etc. Ramsar Convention An intergovernmental treaty for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. Adopted at Ramsar (Irani) in 1971 and came into force in 1975. India became a party in 1982 ‘List of wetlands of international importance’ or the Ramsar List contains wetlands which hold significant value for humanity as a whole. Ramsar list Wetlands in the Ramsar list meet at least one of nine criteria as defined under the conventions. Contracting Parties are expected to manage their Ramsar Sites to maintain their ecological character. Montreux Record: Ramsar sites where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring, or are likely to occur as a result of technological developments, pollution or other human interference. o Loktak (Manipur) and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) of India are included in it. Tamil Nadu has maximum Ramsar Sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh. 24 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  1.3.4. OTHER WETLANDS IN NEWS 1.3.5. OTHER RELATED NEWS 1.3.5.1. UNITED NATIONS WATER CONVENTION SPRING INITIATIVE UN-backed network Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) has launched “Spring”, a new initiative to halt or reverse nature loss by 2030. About Spring Initiative Supported by a coalition of 200 investors managing a combined $15trn in assets. Objective: To address systemic risk of nature loss to societies and long-term portfolio value creation by enhancing corporate practices on forest loss and land degradation. 1.5.3.2. SHALLOW AQUIFER MANAGEMENT (SAM) SAM pilot models was recently launched in Telangana. 25 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  About SAM It is a sustainable urban water management technique It involves drilling shallow water borewells to pump out water. The underneath layers are recharged during rainfall causing rise in water tables. It is part of Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. National Aquifer Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM) aims to characterize aquifers and develop plans for Ground Water management. 1.3.5.3. FISHMIP INITIATIVE According to the FishMIP, global projections of exploitable fish biomass show a more than 10% decline. About FishMIP initiative Genesis: Fisheries and Marine Ecosystem Model Intercomparison Project was launched in 2013. Global Network: It is an international network of more than 100 marine ecosystem modellers and researchers around the world. Relations with UN: It is working with FAO to understand the long-term impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and fisheries FishMIP2.0: Established in 2024 to increase the reliability of modelling projections. 1.3.6. TERMS IN THE NEWS 1.3.6.1. PLANKTON CRASH Noctiluca scintillans, a type of phytoplankton, turn a red color when in large numbers experienced a crash, leading to the release of colored pigment from their cells. These pigments then stick to rocks and the sea floor, forming a biofilm-like layer and causing ‘red tides. Plankton crashes happen due to a lack of nutrients or lack of CO2 in the earlier part of the production cycle. Plankton may also die later in the cycle due to sudden change in water quality. 1.3.6.2. GAPE LIMITATION Concept in ecology that refers to the physical constraint on the size of prey that a predator can consume. This limitation is primarily determined by the size of the predator’s mouth or “gape”. Hence, Small predators can only eat small prey, while bigger predators can eat bigger prey. Importance of Gape limitation: Shaping Food Webs, drives adaptions; regulates predator-prey balance; predicts environmental changes, etc. 1.3.6.3. MEGAFAUNA It describes animals above a certain weight threshold (generally above 50 kg). Megafauna may be classified based on their dietary type as megaherbivores (plant-eaters), megacarnivores (meat-eaters), and megaomnivores (who eat both plants and meat). Anthropogenic pressures on megafauna since the Late Pleistocene have resulted in dramatic losses, especially in the megaherbivores and megacarnivores. Some extinct megafaunal species include woolly mammoths, sabre-toothed tigers, giant sloths etc. 1.3.6.4. STROMATOLITES They refer to a range of microbial communities that are associated with layers of rock. They are partially responsible for the Great Oxygenation Event, which changed the composition of our atmosphere by introducing oxygen. 26 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  They are typically relegated to extreme environmental niches, thus are found Rarely and are sparsely scattered across the globe. Recently, the first discovery of living shallow-marine stromatolites was made in the Middle East near the Red Sea. 1.3.6.5. ENVIRONMENTAL DNA (EDNA) eDNA is organismal DNA that is released in the environment from cellular material shed by organisms (via skin, excrement, etc.) into aquatic or terrestrial environments. eDNA is increasingly being used to detect the presence of species and assess biodiversity in an ecosystem o Unlike conventional methods, eDNA approach is reliable, and accurate, and can be done at a low cost. This information can be used to inform the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and other conservation tools. 1.3.6.6. SPECIATION A speciation is a lineage-splitting event that produces two or more separate species. This process generates biodiversity. Modes of Speciation o Allopatric: New species formed from geographically isolated populations. o Peripatric: New species formed from a small population isolated at the edge of a larger population. o Parapatric: New species formed from a continuously distributed population. o Sympatric: New species formed from within the range of the ancestral population.  It can happen even when populations live in the same area without geographical barriers.  Asiatic lions & Bengal tigers co-existed for so long in the Subcontinent due to Sympatric Speciation. 1.3.6.7. BIOLUMINESCENCE It is property of a living organism to emit light. Light emitted is produced by energy released from enzyme-catalysed oxidation reactions in organisms. o It requires two unique chemicals: luciferin and either luciferase or photoprotein. Spectral range of light emission of bioluminescent organisms spans from blue to red light. Species exhibiting Bioluminescence: Sponges, jellyfish, hatchet fish, worms, Sea Walnuts, fireflies, fungi, bacteria, deep-sea shrimps, etc. Functions of Bioluminescence: Counter-illumination (Camouflage against predatory animals), etc. 1.3.6.8. FACTORY FARMING Factory Farming refers to a system of raising livestock and poultry in high-density facilities under controlled conditions to maximize production efficiency and output of dairy products at lower cost. Impacts of Factory Farming: Antibiotic resistance; zoonotic diseases, Environmental Degradation; Health, etc. 1.3.6.9. WOODY ENCROACHMENT It is the increase of tree and shrub cover and is widespread across most ecosystems. It entails the conversion of open habitats to habitats with greater tree cover and/or shrub density. It results in homogenisation of an ecosystem, meaning a diverse, multi-layered ecosystem turns into a uniform layer of woody plants. Its occurrence in open ecosystems like savannahs and grasslands reduces native grassland birds. 27 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  1.3.6.10. GREEN WATER AND BLUE WATER Green water refers to moisture in soils and vegetation. o Part of the hydrologic cycle: Green water is absorbed by roots, used by plants, and released back to the atmosphere through the process of transpiration. o It is vital for generating rainfall, mitigating climate change, etc. Blue water is about encompassing surface and groundwater, found in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. o Blue water is recharged by precipitation 1.4. ORGANIZATIONS IN NEWS 1.4.1. CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES OF WILD FAUNA AND FLORA (CITES) 28 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  1.4.2. INTERNATIONAL UNION FOR CONSERVATION OF NATURE (IUCN) 29 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  1.4.3. WORLD WILDLIFE FUND (WWF) 30 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  2. CLIMATE CHANGE 2.1. NATIONALLY DETERMINED CONTRIBUTIONS (NDCS) 2.2. INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES, CONVENTIONS AND INITIATIVES 2.2.1. UNFCCC COP29 Why in the News? COP29 of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, ending with the Baku Climate Unity Pact and various agreements. About Conference of the Parties (COP) COP is the UNFCCC's highest decision-making body, where UNFCCC members annually review climate progress and negotiate commitments. COP30 will occur in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025. First CoP meeting was held in Berlin, Germany, 1995. 31 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  Key Outcomes of COP29 Themes Details New Collective Goals for financing climate action in developing countries: Quantified Goal on o Triple finance to USD 300 billion annually by 2035 (previous goal: 100 Climate Finance billion). (NCQG) or Baku o Efforts to mobilize $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 from public and private Finance Goal sources. Carbon Markets Finalized the rules for Article 6 (related to international carbon markets) of the and Article 6 Paris Agreement. Transparency All transparency negotiating items concluded, including Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF). o ETF establishes a system for countries to report on their climate actions, including GHG emissions, mitigation and adaptation efforts, etc. 1st submissions of Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs) by 13 counties under the Paris Agreement. o BTRs are the regular reports submitted by countries under ETF. Baku Declaration on Global Climate Transparency and Baku Global Climate Transparency Platform launched to support the full implementation of the ETF. Adaptation Launched the Baku Adaptation Road Map (to advance implementation of adaption as per Article 7 of the Paris Agreement) and Baku High-Level Dialogue on Adaptation to enhance UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience implementation. Establishing a support program for implementing National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) for Least Developed Countries (LDCs). o NAPs are comprehensive documents outlining a country's medium- and long- term strategies and priorities for adapting impacts of climate change. Indigenous Peoples Adopted the Baku Workplan and renewed the mandate of the Facilitative and Local Working Group (FWG) of the Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples Communities Platform (LCIPP). o FWG was established at COP24 in Katowice to further operationalize LCIPP. Implementation of the Workplan will begin in 2025 with 3 Focus areas: knowledge exchange; Capacity building for engagement; integrating diverse values and knowledge systems into climate policies. Gender and climate Extended the enhanced Lima Work Programme on Gender and Climate change Change for another 10 years. o Lima Work Programme on Gender (established in COP 20, 2014) to include gender considerations under the Convention and Paris Agreement. o At COP 25 Parties agreed a 5-year enhanced Lima work programme on gender and its gender action plan was launched. Issues pending Deadlock on Mitigation Work Programme (MWP): Divisions persist over fossil fuels' role, with the Global Stocktake assessment becoming a point of controversy in measuring climate progress. Next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) has been postponed ahead of COP30. About United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Genesis: Adopted in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro and entered into force in 1994. Headquarters: Bonn, Germany. Objective: Stabilize greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations in the atmosphere to prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Membership: 198 Parties, including India. 32 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  Key Agreements: o Kyoto Protocol (1997): Binding commitments for developed nations to reduce GHG emissions. o Paris Agreement (2015): Global accord to limit temperature rise below 2°C, aiming for 1.5°C. 2.2.2. KEY INITIATIVES/DECLARATIONS LAUNCHED AT COP29 Initiative Launched by Aim and other details Reducing UNEP-convened Aim: Set sectoral targets to reduce methane from organic Methane Climate and Clean Air waste. from Organic Coalition (CCAC) Support the implementation of 2021 Global Methane Pledge Waste (GMP), launched at COP26. Declaration Signatories: 35 countries (excluding India), representing 47% of global methane emissions from organic waste. Global COP29 Presidency Aim: Sets targets for 2030. Energy Deploying 1,500 GW of energy storage in the power sector Storage and globally (more than six times the level of 2022). Grids Pledge Global grid deployment goal of adding or refurbishing 25 million kilometers of grids. Green Energy COP29 Presidency in Aim: Promoting green energy zones for tackling climate change, Pledge, partnership with Green energy zones act as centralized hubs for high-quality Green Energy UNIDO, UNECE and variable renewable energy resources, renewable energy Zones and UNESCAP infrastructure and storage. Corridors Hydrogen COP29 Presidency Aim: Accelerate production and use of clean hydrogen Declaration Non-legally binding document not requiring changes to participating countries’ national law. Baku COP29 Presidency in Aim: Acknowledge fundamental role of farmers as agents of Harmoniya partnership with climate action. Climate Food and Agriculture Hosted by FAO as part of the Food and Agriculture for Initiative for Organization (FAO) Sustainable Transformation (FAST) Partnership. Farmers FAST is a multi-stakeholder platform established at COP27 (2022) to strengthen quantity and quality of climate finance in agrifood systems. Climate Azerbaijan Aim: Support climate projects in developing countries, Finance meeting next generation NDCs to keep within 1.5-degree C. Action Fund It will be capitalised with contributions from fossil fuel (CFAF) producing countries and companies across oil, gas and coal. Become operationalised post conclusion of initial fundraising round ($1 billion), when 10 contributing countries committed as shareholders. Headquarter: Baku, Azerbaijan. Baku COP29 Presidency, Aim: Advance national ambitions and actions through Initiative for co-facilitated by UN utilization of climate finance, investment, and trade as per Climate Trade and UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement. Finance, Development Investment (UNCTAD) and UN and Trade Development (BICFIT) Program (UNDP) Dialogue Global UN Industrial Aim: Accelerate the decarbonization of heavy-emitting Matchmaking Development industries in emerging and developing economies. Organization 33 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  Platform (UNIDO) and the Function: Connects industries with technical and financial (GMP) Climate Club solutions Role: Single-point gateway to raise decarbonization requests. Declaration COP29 Presidency Aim: Harnessing digital technologies to accelerate climate on Green with the Climate action, promote sustainable development, bridge digital divide. Digital Action Technology Centre & Network, Technology Mechanism, and International Telecommunication Continuity COP 29 Presidency Aim: To advance the implementation of health commitments Coalition for with the UAE, Egypt, from previous COPs and integrate health into climate action. Climate and UK, Brazil, and World Health Health Organisation (WHO) Baku COP29 Presidency in Aim: Build collaboration between COPs on water and its Dialogue on partnership with interplay with climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and Water for UNEP, UNECE, and desertification. Climate WMO Action 1.5° United Nations Aim: Foster stronger collaboration between the private sector Partnership Development and governments for achieving the 1.5°C-aligned Nationally for Action on Program (UNDP)’s Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2025. Climate Financial Centres o Mobilizing the financial sector and supporting the creation Transition for Sustainability of Transition Plans (PACT) (FC4S). o Work through local financial centres including FC4S Programme members. Other Initiatives COP29 Declaration on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism: Aims to mobilize the tourism sector to reduce its carbon footprint, enhance climate resilience, and promote sustainable practices. Global Energy Efficiency Alliance: Launched by UAE to double global energy efficiency rates by 2030 Hydro4NetZero-LAC initiative: Aims to develop and modernise sustainable hydropower infrastructure. Global Alliance for Pumped Storage (GAPS): Launched with over 30 governments and international agencies. ‘Raising Ambition and Accelerating Delivery of Climate Finance’ Report published by Independent High-Level Expert Group on Climate Finance. o Global Investment Required for climate action around $6.3–6.7 trillion per year by 2030. 2.2.3. INDIA AT COP29 Why in the News? India clarified its climate negotiation stance at UNFCCC-COP29. India’s stance Proposed a goal of $1.3 trillion annually under NCQG, with $600 billion coming from grants or equivalent resources. Opposed changes to the scope of the Mitigation Work Programme (MWP) and attempts to alter temperature goals in the Paris Agreement. India asserted that developed countries should provide financial and technological support to developing countries for just transition. 34 © Vision IAS AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI  Opposed follow-up mechanisms for Global Stocktake (GST) outcomes, Criticized the UAE dialogue text for its lack of connection to finance, imbalance, and mitigation-centric language. o Global stocktake is a process for countries to see whether they are collectively making progress towards meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement once every 5 years. Called for clear indicators to measure progress on adaptation, Opposed the use of third-party databases, Supported the establishment of the Baku Road Map India at COP29 Side-events: Disaster Resilient Infrastructure: With CDRI, focused on climate-resilient infrastructure; $8M for 12 Small Island Developing States (SIDS) projects announced. LeadIT Meet: Co-hosted with Sweden, aimed at accelerating low-carbon industry transitions. Energy Transitions with the Global south: With ISA, spotlighted solar energy's role in developing nations' energy shift. Others: India-Sweden Industry Transition Partnership (ITP), etc. 2.2.4. ARTICLE 6 Why in the News? After a decade of negotiations, the rules for carbon trading under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement have been finalized. About Article 6 of the Paris Agreement Provides mechanisms for countries to cooperate in achieving their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) through carbon markets, consisting of two market-based and one non-market-based approach. Carbon Market is a trading system where entities buy carbon credits to offset their GHGs by supporting projects that reduce or remove emissions. o One tradable carbon credit generally equals one metric tonne of carbon dioxide, or the equivalent amount of a different greenhouse gas reduced, sequestered or avoided. o Carbon trading was introduced by Kyoto Protocol in 1997. Mechanisms under Article 6 Market based approaches Non-Market based approach Article 6.2 Article 6.4 Article 6.8 Decentralized approach for Centralized approach Introduces non-market bilateral cooperation termed as Paris Agreement approaches to promote Trading of International Crediting Mechanism mitigation and Transferred Mitigation outcomes (PACM). adaptation (ITMOs) (emissions reductions Establishes a global carbon No trading of emission that result from mitigation actions) market. reductions is involved. Corresponding adjustment in Uses Baseline-and-crediting Involves more than one NDCs are made on trade of ITMOs. mechanism participating Party. 35 AHMEDABAD | BENGALURU | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI ©Vision IAS  About Corresponding adjustment (Article 6.2) Changes made in a countries’ emissions levels to reflect the transfer (export) or acquisition (import) of ITMOs. Made for 3 different cases based on different types of targets and measures in NDCs: o GHG metrics: E.g., economy-wide annual levels of GHG emissions o Non-GHG metrics: E.g., installed capacity of renewable energy in MW o Policies and measures within a country’s NDCs Difference between Carbon trading of Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement Aspect Kyoto Protocol Paris Agreement (Article 6) Scope of Limited to developed countries (Annex I) with Inclusive of all countries. Participation project hosting by developing countries. Adaptation Funding Share of proceeds from CDM projects directed to 5% of proceeds from Article the Adaptation Fund. 6.4 transactions allocated to the Global Adaptation Fund. Market Scope Focused on project-based mechanisms like Combines market-based and Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and Joint non-market-based Implementation (JI). approaches. Legacy Credits Allowed use of older credits from inactive Restricts legacy credit use; projects, causing oversupply concerns. only post-2013 credits. 2.2.5. CLIMATE FINANCE Why in the News? Developing countries are disappointed with the enhanced New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance. About NCQG Proposed at COP21 for setting a new climate finance goal post-2025, following the unmet $100 billion annual target set in 2009. Article 9 of the Paris Agreement mandates developed countries to provide financial support to developing nations. About Climate finance It is local, national or transnational funding from public, private and alternative sources to support climate change mitigation and adaptation, particularly in developing countries vulnerable to climate change (UNFCCC). Key facts about climate finance o 90% of climate finance goes to mitigation actions (UNDP). o ~ 94% of existing climate investment is either through debt or equity (return seeking) (Climate Policy Initiative).