Environment and Ecology: August 2023 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

International Tiger Day 2023: Indian Tiger Conservation

Why in the news?

• International Tiger Day has been observed annually on July 29th since its inception in 2010 during the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit.
• India is home to 70 percent of the world’s wild tiger population.
• India's tiger population has shown a significant increase, reaching a healthy 3,167 in April 2023 from just 1,400 in 2006.
• However, there are concerns about the presence of tigers outside protected areas, shrinking tiger corridors, and human-wildlife conflicts.

About International Tiger Day

• International Tiger Day, observed on July 29 each year, is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the endangered tiger species and promoting efforts to safeguard them and their natural habitats.
• The day serves as a platform to foster harmonious coexistence between humans and tigers and to highlight the importance of preserving these magnificent creatures for future generations.
• The history of International Tiger Day dates back to the year 2010 when it was established during the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit.
• At this summit, representatives from 13 tiger range countries came together and formulated Tx2, a global goal aimed at doubling the number of wild tigers by the year 2022.

What are the concerns raised?

• Tiger-Human Conflicts: Almost 30% of the tiger population in India roams outside protected areas and regularly enters human habitations, leading to conflicts. As India's human population increases and expands into tiger habitats, the risk of conflicts between tigers and humans also rises.
• Shrinking Tiger Corridors: Linear infrastructure such as railway lines, highways, and canals are encroaching on the tiger corridors, which are crucial for maintaining genetic diversity and allowing tigers to move between different populations. These infrastructure projects disrupt tiger movements and isolate populations, leading to genetic bottlenecks and potential inbreeding.
• Habitat Loss: Tigers are believed to be leaving forests in pursuit of herbivores that are increasingly foraying into human-dominated landscapes due to shrinking natural habitats.
• Faulty Claims and Data Transparency: There are concerns about the accuracy of tiger population estimates in India. The switch from using pugmarks to the National Tiger Estimation process in 2005 has been criticized for potentially undercounting tiger numbers. Lack of transparency in releasing raw data for public scrutiny has also raised questions about the credibility of the reported figures.
• Carrying Capacity of Forests: India's current reserve cover only around 20 percent of the 380,000 sq km of forested land that is suitable for supporting tiger populations. The wild tiger population in states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and the northeastern regions is currently at very low densities.
• Considering this, it is estimated that the country's forests can sustain a tiger population of approximately 10,000 to 15,000 tigers.
• Conservation and Management: It was observed that more than numbers, the focus should be on conservation and management. Tigers in India have recovered only in some parts of the country

Tiger Conservation Efforts in India

• Tiger Reserves In India
• Wildlife Protection Act
• Environment Protection Act
• Forest Conservation Act
• Project tiger
• Tiger hunting was banned in 1968

Conclusion

India's wild tiger population has shown promising growth, but it also faces critical challenges related to human-wildlife conflicts, shrinking habitats, and development. Conservation efforts should be focused on balancing the needs of humans and wildlife, ensuring sustainable coexistence, and safeguarding tiger populations for future generations.

Heat Waves and Heat Index

Context

• In Rajya sabha, Union minister of Earth sciences, Kiren Rijiju informed that a head index on experimental basis is released by India Meteorological Department (IMD).
• It will provide general guidance for the warmer regions of India where high temperature is causing discomfort for the people

Heat Index

• This index is developed on the lines of the heat index equation used by National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), USA.
• For Bhubaneshwar and Ahmedabad heat index is created under Heat Action Plan which is being done under project mode by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
• Many local agencies like Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH) are helping NDMA for this.
• For entire country the heat index will be issued every day in weather bulletins.

Significance

• It will help people in understanding the impact of humidity on the high temperatures.
• The information provided by this index could be utilized to identify the heat implications to humans and to understand temperature ranges which are causing discomfort.
• It will also help in guiding people to take additional care in order to reduce the discomfort.
• It will provide day's minimum and maximum temperatures and also will inform what the existing temperature feels like.
• It will utilize air temperature and relative humidity data.
• However it is experimental and there is a need to change and validate this according to the Indian conditions.

Heat Index color coding

• Green - Experimental heat Index less than 35 deg C.
• Yellow - Experimental heat Index in the range of 36-45 deg C.
• Orange - Experimental heat Index in the range of 46-55 deg
• Red - Experimental heat Index greater than 55 deg C.

Addressing Air Pollution Through Technological Innovations 

Why in News?

Recently, the Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change provided valuable insights into the projects related to deploying various technologies to address Air Pollution in India during a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

What are Various Technology Based Projects Deployed to Curb Air Pollution?

• Pariyayantra Filtration Units on Buses: A pilot study was initiated where 30 buses were retrofitted with Pariyayantra Filtration units installed on their rooftops.
  • These units were designed to effectively capture dust particles (through filters fitted on vehicles) from the surrounding environment, thereby minimizing the contribution of vehicular movement to air pollution levels.
  • It does not require any power to operate and is equivalent to the filtration provided by 6 room air filters.
• WAYU Air Purification Units at Traffic Intersections: A total of 54 WAYU Air Purification Units were strategically installed at major traffic intersections in Delhi.
  • These units, designed to purify the air in the immediate vicinity, played a crucial role in reducing the impact of vehicular emissions on air quality.
  • The WAYU units acted as localized air purifiers, offering a potential solution to combat the adverse effects of traffic-related pollution.
• Ionisation Technology for Ambient Air Pollution Reduction: This technology aimed to neutralize pollutants through ionization processes, thereby enhancing air quality in the target areas.
  • The study evaluated the feasibility and impact of ionization technology, potentially opening new avenues for pollution reduction.
• Installation of Medium/Large-Scale Smog Towers: These towers, acting as substantial air purifiers, targeted the reduction of particulate matter and pollutants on a broader scale.
• Retrofitting Emission Control Devices in In-Use Vehicles: Older vehicles, especially those adhering to older emission standards like BS III, contribute substantially to air pollution.
  • A pilot project was undertaken to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of retrofitting emission control devices in such vehicles.
    • The project aimed to provide recommendations for emission reduction from these vehicles, aligning with broader efforts to improve air quality.
• Indigenous Photonic System for Air Quality Monitoring: A project by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) focused on developing an indigenous photonic system for real-time remote monitoring of air quality parameters.
  • This initiative aimed to enhance the accuracy and accessibility of air quality data, enabling more informed decision-making in pollution management strategies.
• Advancements in Electric Vehicle (EV) Autonomous Technology: An autonomous navigation foundation focused on EV-based autonomous vehicles was established under the DST National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS).
  • The integration of autonomous technology in EVs presents an opportunity to optimize driving patterns, reduce traffic congestion, and subsequently lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon Capture and Storage

Why in news?

As per experts, carbon capture and storage is sorely needed to cut pollution in sectors where other clean technologies are farther behind.

What is carbon capture and storage?

• Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a way to catch carbon and trap it beneath the earth. 
• It is different to carbon dioxide removal (CDR) — where carbon is sucked out of the atmosphere.
  • CDR brings down the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, cooling the planet.
  • On the other hand, CCS in fossil fuel plants and factories prevents the gas from getting out in the first place.
• Scientists see a big role for CCS in factories that make cement and fertiliser, as well as in plants that burn rubbish.

How well does CCS work?

• For many years, engineers have captured carbon from concentrated streams of gas — pushing it into tanks, scrubbing it clean and using it in industry or storing it underground. 
• Some bioethanol plants, where the gas stream is pure, already report capturing more than 95% of the carbon emissions.
• But when it comes to capturing carbon from dirtier gas streams, like those from factories and power plants, CCS projects have repeatedly underdelivered.
  • Some kind of chemical is needed to grab that CO2 from dirtier sources. Such technology has been successfully demonstrated.
  • However, it has not been fully commercialised at scale.
• While a handful of test facilities have managed to capture more than 90% of emissions from some dirty gas streams, commercial projects have been plagued with problems.

CCS: an economic problem than a technical one

• Experts see the failures of CCS more as an economic problem than a technical one. 
• They say companies have little incentive to capture their pollution. They contend that companies need to spend money and do the R&D until these technologies start working.

Why is CCS controversial?

• Uncertain effectiveness
  • The technology does not seem to work as advertised. This is true especially in the case of dirty gas streams. 
  • There are concerns about the long-term storage capacity and stability of captured carbon dioxide, as well as potential leakage risks that could undermine the intended climate benefits.
• License to burn fossil fuels
  • CCS also allows companies that want to continue burning fossil fuels to gain support from policymakers and a social license to continue their operations.
  • Instead of using carbon capture as a climate solution, these companies use it to extract more oil by injecting carbon dioxide underground in a process called enhanced oil recovery. 
  • In the past, the primary use of captured carbon has been for this purpose of increasing oil production from depleted wells.
• Delays transition to renewable energy 
  • Critics argue that efforts and funding are being directed towards an expensive and unproven technology like CCS.
  • This could delay the transition to a low-carbon future.
• Cost effectiveness 
  • CCS technology is expensive to develop, implement, and operate. 
  • The high costs associated with building and maintaining CCS facilities raise concerns about its economic viability, particularly when compared to other renewable energy options such as wind and solar power.
• Energy consumption: 
  • CCS requires a significant amount of energy to capture, transport, and store carbon dioxide. 
  • This energy requirement can reduce the overall efficiency of power plants and potentially increase their environmental impact.

Way forward

• In Norway, German industrial giant Heidelberg Materials is building the first facility to capture carbon from cement and store it underground. 
• The company claims a capture rate of close to 100% is possible.
• To make the technology grow cheaper and work better, governments need to tax carbon, make it easier to approve CCS projects and help set up the infrastructure around it.
• There needs to be a subsidy for green steel and green cement, because that is really going to push the people who can accelerate the development of CCS.

State of India’s Birds 2023 Report

Context

The “State of India’s Birds, 2023″ report reveals a widespread decline in most bird species across the country, with some currently declining and others projected to decline in the future.

Key Findings

• Raptors, migratory shorebirds, and ducks have experienced the most significant declines.
• However, several species like the Indian Peafowl, Rock Pigeon, Asian Koel, and House Crow are thriving and increasing in both abundance and distribution.
• The assessments, based on data from around 30,000 birdwatchers, indicate that 60% of the 338 species with identifiable long-term trends have declined, while 36 species have increased.
• Specialist bird species, which inhabit specific habitats like wetlands and rainforests, are facing rapid declines, while generalist species capable of adapting to various habitats are faring better.
• Long-distance migratory birds, such as those from Eurasia and the Arctic, have suffered significant declines, while resident species remain more stable.
• Birds with diets focused on vertebrates and carrion have seen notable declines, potentially due to harmful pollutants present in these food resources.
• The report emphasizes the decline of species endemic to the Western Ghats and Sri Lanka biodiversity hotspots.

The main threats to birdlife in India highlighted in the report include:

• Climate Change
• Urbanization
• Monocultures
• Energy Infrastructure

Dholpur-Karauli: India’s 54th Tiger Reserve

Why in News?

National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has given its approval for the establishment of the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve in the state of Rajasthan.

• It has secured its position as the fifth tiger reserve in the state of Rajasthan following Mukundra Hills, Ramgarh Vishdhari, Ranthambore, and Sariska.

What are Tiger Reserves?

• A protected area designated for the conservation of the striped big cats (tigers) is referred to as Tiger Reserve. However, a tiger reserve may also be a national park or wildlife sanctuary.
  • For Example: The Sariska Tiger Reserve is also a national park. It is so because the place was originally created as a national park and later dedicated to tiger conservation.
• Tiger Reserves are notified by State Governments as per provisions of Section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 on advice of the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
  • Presently, India accommodates a total of 54 Tiger Reserves (with the most recent addition being the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve).

What is the National Tiger Conservation Authority?

About:

• The NTCA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change constituted under enabling provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006, for strengthening tiger conservation.

Objectives:

• Providing statutory authority to Project Tiger so that compliance of its directives becomes legal.
• Fostering accountability of Center-State in management of Tiger Reserves, by providing a basis for MoU with States within our federal structure.
• Addressing livelihood interests of local people in areas surrounding Tiger Reserves.

Sixth Anniversary of the Minamata Convention

Why in News?

The sixth anniversary of the Minamata Convention on Mercury is a reminder of global efforts to combat the toxic effects of mercury.

• On this occasion, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) reflects on the ongoing campaign to eradicate the use of mercury in small-scale gold mining.
• This practice, despite its economic significance, poses severe risks to both miners and the environment due to the hazardous properties of mercury.

What is Mercury Pollution?

• About Mercury:
  • Mercury is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth's crust. It is considered by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the top ten chemicals or groups of chemicals of major public health concern.

Sources of Mercury Pollution

• Natural Sources:
  • Volcanic eruptions release small amounts of mercury.
  • Erosion of rocks and soil can release mercury into water bodies.
• Anthropogenic Sources:
  • Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM): ASGM is a major source of mercury pollution, where mercury is used to extract gold from ore.
    • Mercury is used to extract gold particles from ores, creating amalgams that are later heated to evaporate the mercury, leaving behind gold.
    • Artisanal gold mining operations are responsible for 37% of global mercury pollution.
  • Industrial Processes: Various industries, such as chlorine production, cement manufacturing, and waste incineration, emit mercury.
    • The cement industry is responsible for around 11% of global anthropogenic mercury emissions.
  • Waste Disposal: Improper disposal of e-waste products containing mercury, such as fluorescent bulbs and batteries, leads to mercury leaching into the environment.
• Associated Impact:
  • Methylmercury accumulates in aquatic organisms like fish. People primarily come into contact with methylmercury through the consumption of fish and shellfish.
  • This compound carries a higher risk of causing Minamata disease, a condition characterized by sensory impairment, tremors, and both auditory and visual deficits.
  • This illness was initially observed in the residents of Minamata Bay, Japan, who consumed mercury-contaminated fish due to industrial waste pollution.

Way Forward

• Mercury-Removing Filters: Innovative mercury-removal filters for industrial emissions, wastewater treatment, and consumer products can be designed and deployed.
  • These filters could selectively capture and adsorb mercury particles from air and water streams.
• Phytoremediation: Phytoremediation, allows plants to absorb and accumulate mercury from soil, water, or sediments. These plants can then be harvested and safely disposed of, effectively removing mercury from the environment.
• Implementing planetGOLD Program: There is a need for global implementation of the planetGOLD program, led by UNEP, which seeks to eliminate mercury from artisanal gold mining and create safer working conditions. It operates under the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
  • Funded by the Global Environment Facility, the program provides financial and technical support to help miners transition away from mercury use.
  • planetGOLD's mercury-free processing plant in Burkina Faso serves as a model for transitioning away from mercury.

Large-Scale Wildfires in Hawaii

Context

The devastating wildfires that have been affecting the US state of Hawaii, particularly the island of Maui, since Tuesday, August 9th.

Details

• Large-scale wildfires have been sweeping the US state of Hawaii since Tuesday (August 9).
• The death toll has reached 55 as of Friday.
• Widespread destruction includes downed power lines and over 675 acres of burned land.
• The town of Lahaina has suffered near-total damage, with State Governor Josh Green comparing it to a bombed area.

Factors Contributing to the Extent of Fires

• Dry weather and strong winds from a passing hurricane played a significant role in the blaze.
• Maui County's hazard mitigation plan, last updated in 2020, had identified Lahaina as at risk due to frequent ignitions and vulnerable populations.
• The region also has a high rate of non-English speakers, potentially limiting effective response during hazards.
• The emergency warning sirens were not triggered, and mobile alerts were used instead.

Historical Significance of Maui and Lahaina

• Lahaina was the one-time capital of the former Hawaiian kingdom (1820-1845).
• It was the royal residence of King Kamehameha, who unified Hawaii.
• Important historical sites like the Wainee Church and Lahainaluna High School connect to Hawaiian heritage.
• The town's connection to Native Hawaiians and its role in drafting the Hawaiian Kingdom's Constitution.

Causes of Devastating Fires

• "Flash droughts" caused by rapid drying of atmospheric moisture aided fire spread.
• Around 83% of the island was abnormally dry or in moderate to severe drought conditions.
• Invasive, fire-prone grass species have taken over former pineapple and sugar cane lands.
• Unusually strong trade winds from Hurricane Dora's impact contributed to fire conditions.
• Climate change's role in increasing forest fires globally and in Hawaii due to rising temperatures.

Implications and Ongoing Investigation

• Human factors in evacuation and response are under investigation.
• Climate-related factors, including flash droughts and strong winds, are being discussed.
• Climate change's impact on fire frequency and severity in Hawaii.
• Unanticipated effects of distant hurricanes, like Hurricane Dora's influence on fire occurrence.

About Hawaii

• Hawaii is a state located in the Pacific Ocean, comprising an archipelago of islands.
• It is situated in the central Pacific region, southwest of the continental United States.
• The state is known for its isolated and unique geographical position.

Islands and Geography

• Hawaii consists of eight main islands: Hawaii (also known as the Big Island), Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe.
• Each island has its distinct geography, landscapes, and natural features.

Cultural and Historical Significance

• The islands were originally settled by Polynesians, and their cultural heritage is deeply rooted in the native Hawaiian traditions.
• The arrival of Western explorers, missionaries, and eventual colonization significantly impacted Hawaiian society and culture.
• Hawaii's historical significance includes being the royal capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii before it became a U.S. territory.

Statehood and Government

• Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States on August 21, 1959.
• It operates under a state government structure, with an elected governor and state legislature.
• The state capital is Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu.

Economy and Industries

• Hawaii has a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture, defense, and technology sectors.
• Tourism is a major industry, attracting millions of visitors annually to enjoy its beaches, landscapes, and cultural attractions.
• Agriculture, including the cultivation of crops like sugarcane, pineapples (historically), and coffee, has played a significant role.

Natural Beauty and Biodiversity

• Hawaii is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and picturesque beaches.
• The islands are home to unique and diverse ecosystems, with numerous endemic species of plants and animals.

Volcanic Activity and Landforms

• The Hawaiian islands are of volcanic origin, with active and dormant volcanoes shaping the landscapes.
• Kilauea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island are among the world's most active volcanoes, contributing to the islands' dynamic geology.

Cultural Diversity and Heritage

• Hawaii's population is ethnically and culturally diverse, influenced by Polynesian, Asian, European, and American cultures.
• Native Hawaiian culture and traditions remain an integral part of the state's identity.

Languages and Society

• English is the primary language, but Hawaiian is also spoken and recognized.
• Hawaii's society reflects a blend of cultural practices, customs, and values from its multi-ethnic population.

Environmental Challenges

• Hawaii faces environmental challenges, including habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change impacts such as rising sea levels and increased frequency of extreme weather events.