Worksheet Solutions: Environment & Natural Resources | Political Science Class 12 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks

Q1: The Human Development Report, 2006 estimates that ______ billion people lack access to sanitation.
Ans: 2.6 billion
2.6 billion people lack access to sanitation, highlighting a significant global sanitation gap according to the Human Development Report, 2006.

Q2: Biodiversity loss is primarily caused by _______.
Ans: Human activities
Biodiversity loss is primarily caused by human activities, emphasizing the impact of human intervention on Earth's diverse ecosystems.

Q3: The Earth Summit in 1992 took place in _______.
Ans: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Earth Summit in 1992 took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, serving as a pivotal event for global environmental discussions and agreements.

Q4: The global resources shared by the international community are known as ________.
Ans: Common pool resources
Common pool resources are the global resources shared by the international community, emphasizing their collective ownership and responsibility.

Q5: The Kyoto Protocol set targets for ________ nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Ans: Industrialized/Annex I nations
The Kyoto Protocol set targets for industrialized/Annex I nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reflecting a global effort to combat climate change.

Q6: ________ played a significant role in environmental movements.
Ans: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) played a significant role in environmental movements, highlighting the influence of civil society in shaping environmental policies and awareness.

Q7: Resource geopolitics refers to who gets what, when, where, and how in the context of ________.
Ans: Natural resources
Resource geopolitics refers to who gets what, when, where, and how in the context of natural resources, illustrating the strategic allocation and control of resources on a global scale.

Q8: West Asia, particularly the Gulf region, accounts for about ______% of global oil production.
Ans: 30%
West Asia, particularly the Gulf region, accounts for about 30% of global oil production, underscoring the region's significant contribution to the world's oil supply.

Q9: Water scarcity has been a major cause of conflicts in the ______ century.
Ans: 21st century
Water scarcity has been a major cause of conflicts in the 21st century, emphasizing the growing geopolitical importance of water resources in contemporary global politics.

Q10: Indigenous populations are defined by the United Nations as the ancestors of people who lived in a territory when ________ first arrived.
Ans: Others/Colonizers
Indigenous populations are defined by the United Nations as the ancestors of people who lived in a territory when others/colonizers first arrived, recognizing their historical presence and rights in their native lands.

Match the Column

Q1:

Ans:  1. The Earth Summit - H. Environmental treaties:
The Earth Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, resulted in several environmental treaties and agreements aimed at addressing global environmental issues. It marked a significant step in international efforts to promote sustainable develo

pment and environmental conservation.
2. Kyoto Protocol - I. Resource distribution:
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that sets binding obligations on industrialized nations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. It addresses the global issue of climate change by focusing on the distribution and reduction of resources contributing to environmental pollution.

3. Biodiversity loss - B. Forest movements:
Biodiversity loss often occurs due to deforestation and habitat destruction. Forest movements advocate for the conservation and protection of forests, which are vital ecosystems hosting diverse plant and animal species. Preserving forests is crucial in preventing biodiversity loss.

4. Global Commons - I. Resource distribution:
Global commons refer to shared resources, such as oceans and the atmosphere, that are not owned or controlled by any single country. The distribution of these resources is a critical aspect of international cooperation and environmental sustainability.

5. Resource geopolitics - I. Resource distribution:
Resource geopolitics involves the strategic allocation and distribution of natural resources among nations. It emphasizes the political and economic factors that influence the distribution of resources globally, leading to geopolitical tensions and negotiations.

6. The Montreal Protocol - J. Conservation of ozone layer:
The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances. It is a key conservation effort focused on preserving the ozone layer, which shields the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

7. Environmental Movements - H. Environmental treaties:
Environmental movements, comprising NGOs and activists, often advocate for the creation and implementation of environmental treaties and agreements. They raise awareness, mobilize public support, and influence policymakers to participate in international environmental efforts.

8. The Human Development Report, 2006 - C. Sanitation access:
The Human Development Report often includes data on various aspects of human development, including access to sanitation. It provides insights into the global challenges related to sanitation access, emphasizing the importance of basic sanitation facilities for human well-being.

9. Indigenous People and their Rights - H. Environmental treaties:
Indigenous people's rights are often addressed in environmental treaties and agreements, recognizing their traditional knowledge and practices related to environmental conservation. These treaties acknowledge the importance of indigenous communities in preserving biodiversity and sustainable resource management.

10. The Antarctic Treaty - E. Outer space governance:
The Antarctic Treaty governs international relations in Antarctica, ensuring the continent is used for peaceful purposes and scientific research. While not directly related to outer space, the treaty exemplifies international cooperation and governance over a vast, shared territory, setting a precedent for similar arrangements in outer space exploration and use.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion (A): Biodiversity loss is primarily due to deforestation.
Reason (R): Deforestation leads to the removal of natural habitats.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Ans: (b)
Biodiversity loss is indeed caused by various factors, including deforestation. Deforestation disrupts natural habitats, leading to the loss of diverse plant and animal species. However, biodiversity loss is not solely due to deforestation; it also results from pollution, climate change, habitat destruction through urbanization, and other human activities.

Q2: Assertion (A): The Kyoto Protocol set targets for all nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Reason (R): Developing countries like India and China were exempted from the Kyoto Protocol requirements.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Ans: (b)
The Kyoto Protocol did set targets for greenhouse gas emissions reductions but applied these targets mainly to developed nations. Developing countries, including India and China, were exempted from mandatory emission reduction targets due to their lower historical contributions to global emissions and their need for economic growth. So, while both statements are true, the exemption of developing countries is not the direct explanation for the Kyoto Protocol setting targets for all nations.

Q3: Assertion (A): Resource geopolitics pertains to the allocation of resources during the Cold War.
Reason (R): Oil is considered the most important resource in global politics.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Ans: (b)
Resource geopolitics does indeed pertain to the allocation of resources during various geopolitical situations, not just limited to the Cold War era. While it's true that oil is a crucial resource in global politics, it is not the direct explanation for resource geopolitics. Resource geopolitics encompasses a wide range of resources, including minerals, water, energy sources, and strategic materials. The assertion is accurate, but the reason doesn't provide a specific explanation for the term "resource geopolitics," making option (b) the correct choice.

Q4: Assertion (A): Indigenous people advocate for the recognition of their continued existence as independent communities.
Reason (R): Indigenous populations are primarily found in North America.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Ans: (b)
The assertion accurately states that indigenous people advocate for the recognition of their continued existence as independent communities with distinct cultures, traditions, and rights. However, the reason, stating that indigenous populations are primarily found in North America, is not entirely correct. Indigenous communities are not limited to North America; they are found across the globe, including Central and South America, Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. Therefore, while both the assertion and reason are true, the reason does not correctly explain the assertion, making option (b) the correct choice.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What did the Earth Summit in 1992 result in?
Ans: The Earth Summit in 1992 resulted in the adoption of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Q2: List two agreements related to the Antarctic.
Ans: Two agreements related to the Antarctic are the Antarctic Treaty System and the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty.

Q3: Explain the concept of Global Commons.
Ans: Global Commons refers to the shared resources and spaces that are not owned by any particular country but are available for the benefit of all humanity, such as the atmosphere, oceans, and outer space.

Q4: Why were developing countries like India and China exempted from the Kyoto Protocol requirements?
Ans: Due to their status as developing nations with lower per-capita emissions.

Q5: What are some of the significant remedies provided by environmental movements?
Ans: Advocating for environmental conservation and addressing issues like forest clearing and mineral extraction.

Q6: What does resource geopolitics refer to?
Ans: The distribution of resources and who gets access to them.

Q7: Where is about 30% of global oil production located?
Ans: About 30% of global oil production is located in the Middle East.

Q8: What is one of the main causes of conflicts in the 21st century, according to the text?
Ans: According to the text, one of the main causes of conflicts in the 21st century is competition for natural resources, including oil, minerals, and water.

Q9: What percentage of India's population consists of scheduled tribes?
Ans: Approximately 8.6% of India's population consists of scheduled tribes.

Q10: What regions are occupied by indigenous populations?
Ans: Indigenous populations occupy various regions around the world, including North America, South America, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia and Africa.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the common but differentiated responsibilities concept in international environmental law.
Ans: CBDR is a principle in international environmental law that acknowledges the shared responsibility of all nations to address environmental issues. It also recognizes that developed nations, having contributed more to environmental degradation, should take on a greater burden of responsibility compared to developing nations.

Q2: How did India justify its exemption from the Kyoto Protocol's restrictions in 2005?
Ans: India justified its exemption from the Kyoto Protocol's restrictions in 2005 by pointing out the significant disparity in per capita emission rates between developing nations, including India, and developed countries. India argued that its per capita emissions were substantially lower than those of industrialized nations, making it unfair to impose similar restrictions.

Q3: Describe the role of volunteer organizations in addressing environmental degradation.
Ans: Volunteer organizations play a pivotal role in addressing environmental degradation by actively participating in environmental movements. They engage in activities such as reforestation, wildlife conservation, and promoting eco-friendly technologies, contributing significantly to environmental conservation.

Q4: Discuss the significance of water as a resource in global politics and potential sources of conflict.
Ans: Water is a critical resource in global politics. Potential sources of conflict related to water include disputes over river-sharing, water scarcity in certain regions, and competition for access to freshwater resources. These conflicts can exacerbate regional tensions and are a significant driver of geopolitical disputes.

Q5: What are some of the major environmental issues highlighted in the text, and why are they significant in global politics?
Ans: The text highlights issues like deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, ozone depletion, coastal water pollution, and biodiversity loss. These issues are significant in global politics because they impact ecosystems, human health, climate, and international relations, requiring cooperation and diplomatic solutions.

Q6: Explain the role of the Montreal Protocol in addressing environmental concerns.
Ans: The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty aimed at protecting the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). Its role in addressing environmental concerns is vital, as it has successfully contributed to the healing of the ozone layer, demonstrating the effectiveness of international cooperation in environmental protection.

Q7: What is the main purpose of the Antarctic Treaty, and why is it important?
Ans: The primary purpose of the Antarctic Treaty is to regulate human activity in Antarctica, ensuring it is used for peaceful and scientific purposes while prohibiting military activity, nuclear tests, and mineral mining. This treaty is crucial for preserving the pristine and ecologically sensitive environment of Antarctica.

Q8: How do North-South disparities impact the management of global commons, particularly in the context of outer space?
Ans: North-South disparities, primarily economic and development gaps, impact the management of global commons. In the context of outer space, developed nations with advanced technological capabilities often have more influence on outer space activities. This disparity can lead to unequal access to space resources and opportunities, raising concerns about fairness and equity in the use of global commons. International cooperation and fair governance frameworks are essential to address these disparities and ensure equal access to shared resources.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the challenges faced by developing nations in the context of environmental conservation and the measures proposed at international forums to address these challenges.
Ans: Developing nations face unique challenges in environmental conservation due to factors such as limited resources, rapid population growth, and a heavy reliance on natural resources for economic development. These challenges include deforestation, pollution, loss of biodiversity, and climate change impacts.
Challenges:

• Limited Resources: Developing nations often lack financial resources and technology required for effective environmental conservation.
• Population Pressure: High population growth rates strain natural resources, leading to overexploitation and environmental degradation.
• Poverty: Poverty forces communities to rely on unsustainable practices for livelihood, further depleting natural resources.
• Climate Change: Developing nations are disproportionately affected by climate change, leading to droughts, floods, and food insecurity.

International Measures:

• Funding and Aid: International organizations provide funding and aid for conservation projects and technology transfer to developing nations.
• Capacity Building: Training and capacity-building programs enhance local expertise in environmental management.
• Climate Agreements: Agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to mitigate climate change impacts and support developing nations in adaptation efforts.
• Technology Transfer: Developed nations assist in transferring eco-friendly technologies to aid sustainable development.
• Policy Support: International forums offer policy guidelines and frameworks to strengthen environmental laws in developing nations.

Q2: Examine the significance of Indigenous People's rights in the context of global politics and the challenges they face in asserting these rights.
Ans: Indigenous people's rights are crucial in global politics due to their unique cultural heritage and deep connection with nature. Challenges they face include land dispossession, cultural marginalization, and violation of traditional rights.
Significance:

• Cultural Diversity: Indigenous cultures enrich global diversity, emphasizing the importance of preserving their unique practices.
• Environmental Stewardship: Indigenous communities often possess traditional knowledge vital for sustainable resource management.
• Human Rights: Respecting indigenous rights is a fundamental human rights issue, ensuring their social, economic, and political rights are upheld.

Challenges:

• Land Disputes: Many indigenous communities face land encroachment, disrupting their traditional way of life.
• Marginalization: Indigenous people often suffer social and economic marginalization, limiting their political influence.
• Resource Exploitation: Exploitative practices like mining and deforestation infringe upon indigenous territories, leading to environmental degradation.

Q3: Explain the concept of Resource Geopolitics and analyze how it influences global political strategies, especially in the context of oil and water resources.
Ans: Resource geopolitics involves the strategic use of resources for political power. In the context of oil and water resources:

Oil:

• Economic Leverage: Nations with significant oil reserves wield economic power, influencing global markets and politics.
• Conflict: Oil-rich regions often face political instability and conflict due to geopolitical interests in controlling these resources.
• Energy Security: Nations compete to secure oil resources to ensure their energy security, shaping diplomatic relations.

Water:

• Scarcity: Water scarcity leads to geopolitical tensions, with nations vying for control over shared water resources.
• Conflict Prevention: Collaborative water management initiatives prevent conflicts and foster diplomatic ties between nations.
• Development: Access to water resources fuels agricultural and economic development, influencing global political strategies.

Q4: Evaluate the role of environmental movements in shaping global environmental policies, citing specific examples from the text.
Ans: Environmental movements have played a pivotal role in shaping global environmental policies by raising awareness, mobilizing public opinion, and pressuring governments and international organizations to take action on various environmental issues. These movements have significantly contributed to the formulation of policies addressing climate change, biodiversity conservation, pollution control, and sustainable development. Here are specific examples showcasing the impact of environmental movements on global policies:

Climate Change Agreements:

• The global climate change movement, with figures like Greta Thunberg and organizations like Extinction Rebellion, has catalyzed public demand for urgent climate action. This pressure significantly influenced the 2015 Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The agreement, signed by 196 countries, sets the framework for global action to limit global warming, with the aim of keeping the increase in global average temperature well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

Biodiversity Conservation:

• Environmental movements advocating for biodiversity conservation have influenced international agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The CBD, established during the Earth Summit in 1992, emphasizes the conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of its components, and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. Environmental activists and NGOs have continually pushed for stronger policies and actions to protect endangered species and ecosystems, leading to policy developments at national and international levels.

Anti-Pollution Measures:

• The anti-pollution movement has led to the implementation of policies and agreements addressing various forms of pollution. For instance, the Montreal Protocol, a global agreement adopted to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances, was a result of environmental activism. Activists and scientists worked together to raise awareness about ozone depletion, leading to international efforts to curb harmful substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Environmental movements have influenced the inclusion of environmental sustainability in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Goal 13 of the SDGs specifically addresses climate action, reflecting the global consensus on the urgency of addressing climate change. Environmental activists and organizations worldwide played a crucial role in advocating for the integration of environmental concerns into the SDGs, ensuring that global development efforts are environmentally responsible.

Corporate Responsibility and Accountability:

• Environmental movements have pressured corporations to adopt environmentally responsible practices. For instance, campaigns against single-use plastics led to numerous companies phasing out plastic straws, bags, and packaging. Corporate social responsibility initiatives, influenced by environmental activism, have become integral to the policies of many multinational corporations, driving changes in supply chains and production methods.

In summary, environmental movements have been instrumental in shaping global environmental policies by fostering public awareness, mobilizing grassroots support, and holding governments and corporations accountable. Through their advocacy efforts, these movements have contributed significantly to the development and implementation of international agreements and policies aimed at mitigating environmental challenges and promoting a more sustainable future.