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GS Paper: GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.

  • Specie in news: Charles Darwin’s Frog

    Why in the News?

    • The Charles Darwin frog, a species native to the Andaman Islands, is exhibiting unusual mating and egg-laying behaviors. 

    About Charles Darwin’s Frog

    • Charles Darwin’s frog, scientifically known as Minervarya charlesdarwini, is a frog species endemic to the Andaman Islands.
    • This species is named after the famous naturalist Charles Darwin.
    • It belongs to the family Dicroglossidae, a large group of Asian frogs with over 220 species.
    • Detailed morphological descriptions and specific physical characteristics are still being studied.
    • The species is listed as VULNERABLE on the International Union for Conservation (IUCN) Red List.

    Study and Findings:

    • The frog species engages in upside-down mating and egg-laying behavior.
    • The frogs increasingly use artificial objects, such as plastic sapling bags and discarded containers, as breeding sites.
    • This shift is likely a response to habitat loss and fragmentation, forcing the frogs to adapt to rapidly changing environments.

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are:

    (a) Birds
    (b) Primates
    (c) Reptiles
    (d) Amphibians

  • What is South Africa’s new law on climate change?   

    Why in the news?

    President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a law imposing mandatory emission curbs on large industries and requiring climate adaptation plans to meet South Africa’s Paris Agreement commitments.

    Features of the Law:

    • Mandatory Emission Curbs: The legislation imposes mandatory limits on emissions from large, fossil-fuel-heavy industries.
    • Climate-Adaptation Plans: It requires towns and villages to develop and implement climate-adaptation plans.
    • Emissions Reduction Commitments: The law aims to help South Africa meet its emissions reduction commitments under the Paris Agreement.

    Significance of this law: 

    • Data-Driven Approach: The law is based on emissions data and trends, such as the decrease from 512 Mt CO2e in 2017 to 405 Mt CO2e in 2022 will help in sustained efforts in emission reduction.
    • Reduction in Emissions: The law aims to significantly reduce South Africa’s greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with the Paris Agreement. This is a crucial step for South Africa’s status as one of the top 15 GHG emitters globally.
    • Transition from Coal: South Africa relies heavily on coal for electricity generation. The bill’s mandatory curbs on emissions from large, fossil-fuel-heavy industries are a critical step towards reducing dependence on coal and shifting towards cleaner energy sources.

    Does India have an omnibus legislation on climate change?

    • No Comprehensive Legislation: India does not have a comprehensive, omnibus legislation specifically addressing climate change.
    • Climate Change in Existing Acts: Climate change is addressed within multiple existing Acts and subordinate legislation, such as the Environmental Protection Act, Forest Conservation Act, Energy Conservation Act, and Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act.
    • Private Member’s Bill: A Private Member’s Bill called the Council on Climate Change Bill was proposed by Rajya Sabha parliamentarian Priyanka Chaturvedi in 2022, which aimed to establish a Council to advise the Union government on climate change matters, but there has been no significant progress on this bill.
    • Supreme Court Ruling: The Supreme Court recognized the “right against the adverse effects of climate change” and highlighted the need for comprehensive climate change legislation, linking the impact of climate change to citizens’ rights of liberty, life, and equality.

    Way forward: 

    • Comprehensive Legislation and Institutional Framework: India should work towards enacting comprehensive climate change legislation that integrates and harmonizes existing laws related to environmental protection, energy conservation, and pollution control.
    • Enhanced Research and Implementation Support: Need to invest in extensive scientific research to evaluate the efficacy and potential impacts of transitioning to low-carbon and renewable energy sources.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Climate change is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? (2017)

  • CITES eases Export of Agarwood from India

    Why in the News?

    • India successfully prevented the inclusion of Aquilaria malaccensis (agarwood) in the Review of Significant Trade (RST) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
      • CITES notified a new export quota for Aquilaria malaccensis from India, effective April 2024.

    What is Agarwood?

    • Agarwood (the Wood of Gods) also known as “Oud,” is a highly valuable and aromatic resinous wood produced by the Aquilaria tree.
    • The resin forms in the heartwood of the tree when it becomes infected with a particular type of mold (Phialophora parasitica).
    • This infection causes the tree to produce a dark, fragrant resin, which is highly sought after for its distinctive aroma.
    • This contains essential oils with compounds like sesquiterpenes, chromones, and phenylethyl chromone derivatives.
    • It thrives in tropical forests, at altitudes up to 1000 meters, often found in areas with high humidity and rainfall.
    • Conservation Status:
      • IUCN Status: Listed as Critically Endangered.
      • CITES: Listed in Appendix II in 1995 based on India’s proposal at CoP9 in 1994.

    Uses of Agarwood

    • It is traditionally used as incense.
    • Extracts (agarwood oil) are used in perfumes, the aroma industry, medicine, air fresheners, and purifiers.
    • Essential oil has anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, analgesic, and anti-oxidant properties.
      • Agarwood cultivation is prevalent in parts of India, especially in the Northeast.
      • This development will benefit lakhs of farmers in districts of Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and Tripura.

    What is the issue over the inclusion of ‘Agarwood’ (Aquilaria malaccensis) in the RST of the CITES list?

    • Aquilaria malaccensis was listed in Appendix II of CITES in 1995, which means its trade is controlled to avoid utilization incompatible with its survival.
    • The RST process assesses whether trade in a species is detrimental to its survival and recommends actions to ensure sustainability.
    • India’s stance was supported by a study conducted by the Botanical Survey of India (BSI), which suggested that the harvest from wild populations should be prohibited, while allowing harvest from plantations and private/community lands.

    Arguments against Inclusion in RST

    • Controlled Harvesting: India argued that it has established controlled harvesting practices, ensuring that only cultivated agarwood is used for trade.
    • Economic Impact: Inclusion in the RST could have disrupted the livelihoods of farmers and traders who depend on agarwood cultivation, particularly in the northeastern states of Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and Tripura.
    • Sustainable Practices: The NDF indicated that the current practices in India were sustainable and that the species was being cultivated widely, reducing pressure on wild populations.

    New Export Quota

    • Establishment of Quota: CITES notified a new export quota for agarwood from India, effective from April 2024. The quota was set at 1,51,080 kg/year for agarwood chips and powder/sawdust, and 7,050 kg/year for agarwood oil.
    • Formal Trade: The absence of an export quota for a long period had led to informal trade and increased prices. The new quota aims to regulate and legalize the trade, ensuring benefits to local growers and the economy.
    [2016] With reference to ‘Red Sanders’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements:

    1. It is a tree species found in a part of South India.

    2. It is one of the most important trees in the tropical rainforest areas of South India.

    Which of the statements given above is /are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Himachal witnesses gradual snowfall pattern shift  

    Why in the News?

    • Himachal Pradesh is experiencing a reducing snow cover over the years.
      • There is a noticeable shift in snowfall occurrence from winter months towards early summer months.

    Findings from the Latest Study:

    • The study by the Centre on Climate Change of Himachal Pradesh Council for Science Technology-Environment (HIMCOSTE) shows an overall decrease of 12.72% in snow cover area in 2023-24 compared to 2022-23.
    • The study used Advanced Wide Field Sensor (AWiFS) satellite data to analyze snow cover trends.
    • Early winter months (October-November) showed a decrease in snow cover area except for the Ravi basin, which showed a marginal increase in October.
    • Peak winter months (December-January) saw a negative trend in snow cover area.
    • Late winter months (February-March) showed a positive trend with an increase in snow cover area in all basins compared to the previous year.
    • Snow cover area increased in April due to fresh snowfall in the early summer period.

    Impact on Water Availability

    • The decrease in snow cover during peak winter months (December and January) is especially alarming.
    • Snowfall during these months sustains longer and enhances the discharge dependability of major river basins during summer.
    • Reduced snow cover in winter could affect water availability during the summer months.

    Concerns and Implications

    • Environmentalists and scientists are concerned about the shifting snowfall patterns.
    • Depleting snow cover and changing snowfall patterns have significant impacts on hydro-power, water sources, people, livestock, forests, farms, and infrastructure.

    Back2Basics: Rivers of Himachal Pradesh   

    Description
    Satluj
    • Originating from Rakas Lake in Tibet, the Satluj River is the longest river in Himachal Pradesh.
    • It flows through the districts of Kinnaur, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Solan, and Bilaspur, and enters Punjab near Nangal.
    • The river is crucial for hydropower generation and irrigation.
    • Hydropower Dams: Bhakra Dam (Bhakra-Nangal Project), Nathpa Jhakri Dam, Karcham Wangtoo Dam.
    • Glaciers Feeding: Rakas Lake (Tibet), Zema Glacier, Shipki La Glacier.
    Beas
    • The Beas River originates from Beas Kund near Rohtang Pass.
    • It flows through the districts of Kullu, Mandi, Hamirpur, and Kangra, eventually entering Punjab.
    • It is known for its picturesque valleys and is significant for agriculture and hydropower.
    • Hydropower Dams: Pandoh Dam, Pong Dam (Maharana Pratap Sagar).
    • Glaciers Feeding: Beas Kund Glacier.
    Ravi
    • Originating from the Bara Bhangal Glacier in the Himalayas, the Ravi River flows through the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh.
    • It eventually enters Pakistan. The river is crucial for both hydropower and irrigation in the region.
    • Hydropower Dams: Chamera Dam (Chamera I, II, and III).
    • Glaciers Feeding: Bara Bhangal Glacier.
    Chenab
    • The Chenab River, formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, originates from the Bara Lacha Pass in Lahaul-Spiti.
    • It flows through the districts of Lahaul and Chamba before entering Jammu and Kashmir.
    • It is one of the largest rivers in terms of discharge and is vital for hydropower.
    • Hydropower Dams: No major dams within Himachal Pradesh, but significant potential for hydropower.
    • Glaciers Feeding: Bara Shigri Glacier, Miyar Glacier.
    Yamuna
    • The Yamuna River originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in the Garhwal Himalayas.
    • It forms the eastern boundary of Himachal Pradesh with Uttarakhand.
    • It is one of the most sacred rivers in India and supports major irrigation systems downstream.
    • Hydropower Dams: No significant major hydropower projects within Himachal Pradesh (major dams located downstream in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh).
    • Glaciers Feeding: Yamunotri Glacier.
    Spiti
    • The Spiti River originates from the Kunzum Range and flows through the cold desert region of Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh.
    • It joins the Satluj River near Khab. The river is known for its stunning landscapes and unique ecosystem.
    • Hydropower Dams: No significant major hydropower projects (projects primarily focused on other rivers in the region).
    • Glaciers Feeding: Kunzum Range Glaciers.
    Parbati
    • The Parbati River originates from the Parbati Glacier in the Kullu district.
    • It is a tributary of the Beas River.
    • The river is significant for its hydropower potential and scenic beauty, attracting many trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
    • Hydropower Dams: Parbati Hydroelectric Project.
    • Glaciers Feeding: Parbati Glacier.

  • How oil spills impact the environment?  

    Why in the news?

    Typhoon Gaemi caused widespread damage in Taiwan, the Philippines, and southeastern China, leading to the sinking of the oil tanker MT Terra Nova in Manila Bay.

    MT Terra Nova Incident

    • The MT Terra Nova, an oil tanker, capsized in Manila Bay due to severe weather conditions caused by Typhoon Gaemi. It was en route to Iloilo, Philippines, when it sank, resulting in one crew member’s death and the rescue of 16 others.
    • The sinking of the MT Terra Nova has raised alarms about a potential oil spill that could become the largest in Philippine history, threatening marine life and coastal ecosystems. The spill has already spread several kilometers, prompting urgent containment efforts.
    • The Philippines’ Coast Guard and other agencies are deploying containment booms and skimmers to mitigate the environmental damage. Booms are used to slow the spread of oil, while skimmers are boats that remove oil from the water surface.

    How Oil Spills impact the environment? 

    • Immediate Effects on Marine Life: Oil spills disrupt photosynthesis in marine plants and phytoplankton, which are crucial for oxygen production. The toxic exposure from oil can harm fish and other marine animals, particularly those near the surface.
    • Impact on Birds: Oil can coat the feathers of birds, compromising their insulation and leading to hypothermia and drowning.
    • Long-term Ecological Damage: Oil spills can result in bioaccumulation of toxic substances in the food chain, affecting higher-level predators, including humans.
    • Threat to Coastal Ecosystems: Coastal habitats like mangroves, coral reefs, and marshlands are especially vulnerable, as oil can suffocate these environments and kill vital plants and animals. Recovery from spills can take decades, with some species facing extinction.
    • Economic Impact: Communities that rely on fishing and tourism suffer economically due to oil spills, as cleanup efforts are costly and lengthy, diverting resources from other critical areas.

    Major Oil Spills from the Past

    • Exxon Valdez Spill (1989): One of the worst oil spills, it released approximately 11 million gallons of crude oil into Prince William Sound, killing an estimated 250,000 seabirds, 2,800 sea otters, and numerous other marine animals.  
    • Deepwater Horizon Disaster (2010): This incident saw an estimated 210 million gallons of oil spill into the Gulf of Mexico over 87 days.  

    Conclusion: Need to implement advanced containment measures and cleanup technologies to effectively manage oil spills. This includes deploying more sophisticated skimmers and absorbent materials, as well as utilizing drones and remote sensing to monitor the spread of oil and assess environmental damage.

  • In news: Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary

    Why in the News?

    • The Gandhi Sagar sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is the preferred location for the next batch of cheetah’s relocation plan.
      • However, Banni in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat is also being prepared to house some of them.

    Cheetah Reintroduction in India:

    • In India, cheetahs disappeared in the early 1950s due to hunting and the loss of their habitat.
    • The ‘Action Plan for Reintroduction of Cheetah in India /Project Cheetah (2022)’ aims to bring cheetahs from African countries to various national parks.
    • It is spearheaded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
    • Recently, cheetahs from Namibia were reintroduced in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh.
    • Cheetah are listed as VULNERABLE by the IUCN; Schedule II of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
    • Kuno NP and Gandhi Sagar has an ideal habitat parallel to Maasai Mara (a National Park) in Kenya, suitable for cheetahs.

    About Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary

    • It is located in western Madhya Pradesh and covers an area of 368.62 sq km.
    • It is a flat rocky plateau characterized by shallow topsoil and exposed sheetrock.
    • It is divided by the Chambal River, with the Gandhi Sagar dam and reservoir within its boundaries.
    • Flora and Fauna:
      • Flora: The sanctuary features a savannah ecosystem with open grasslands interspersed with dry deciduous trees. Riverine valleys within the sanctuary support evergreen vegetation.
      • Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including species like leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas, grey wolves, golden jackals, jungle cats, Indian foxes, and marsh crocodiles.

    About Banni Grasslands:

    • The Banni Grassland is located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, covering around 3,847 square km.
    • The climate is arid and semi-arid, with extremely hot summers (temperatures above 45°C) and mild winters (12°C to 25°C), receiving 300-400 mm of annual rainfall mainly during the monsoon.
      • Flora: Grasses such as Dichanthium, Sporobolus, and Cenchrus species, with salt-tolerant plants, shrubs, and trees like Acacia and the invasive Prosopis juliflora.
      • Fauna: Indian wolf, hyena, chinkara, Great Indian Bustard, flamingos, and various raptors, reptiles, and invertebrates.
    • It is inhabited by pastoral communities like the Maldharis, who rely on livestock grazing (cattle, buffalo, and sheep) for their livelihood.
    • Agriculture is limited due to arid conditions, with some areas used for salt production.

    PYQ:

    [2024]  Consider the following statements:

    1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.

    2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.

    3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2012]  Consider the following: (2012)

    1. Black-necked crane
    2. Cheetah
    3. Flying squirrel
    4. Snow leopard

    Which of the above are naturally found in India?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only
    (c) 2 and 4 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • What is a Climate Finance Taxonomy, announced by FM Sitharaman?

    Why in the News?

    • The 2024 Union Budget, presented by Finance Minister, includes developing a taxonomy for climate finance.
      • The aim is to enhance the availability of capital for climate adaptation and mitigation.

    What is a Climate Finance Taxonomy?

    • A climate finance taxonomy is a classification system that identifies which economic activities can be marketed as sustainable investments.
    • It serves as a guide for investors and financial institutions to direct capital towards projects that contribute to climate adaptation and mitigation, aligning with broader environmental goals.

    Significance of a Climate Finance Taxonomy

    • Net-Zero Economy: With global temperatures rising and the adverse effects of climate change worsening, countries need to transition to a net-zero economy.
    • Alignment with Transition Pathways: Taxonomies help ascertain if economic activities are aligned with credible, science-based transition pathways.
    • Deployment of Climate Capital: They provide an impetus for the deployment of climate capital by directing investments towards sustainable projects.
    • Reduction of Greenwashing Risks: Taxonomies help reduce the risks of greenwashing by providing clear criteria for what constitutes a sustainable investment.

    Why does India need a Green Taxonomy?

    • According to the IFC, India needs an estimated $10.1 trillion to achieve net-zero by 2070.
    • Public investments alone can’t match this goal, calling for standardization in investments.

    Benefits for India

    • For India, a taxonomy could attract more climate funds from international sources.
    • Currently, green finance flows in India are falling short of the country’s needs, accounting for only around 3% of total FDI inflows, according to the Landscape of Green Finance in India 2022 report by the Climate Policy Initiative.
    • A lack of clarity on what constitutes sustainable activity is a significant reason for the low green finance flows. A taxonomy would address this issue.

    India’s Climate Commitments:

    • India aims to achieve a net-zero economy by 2070.
    • The country has pledged to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030, compared to the 2005 level.
    • India has also committed to achieving about 50% of its cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030.

    Steps taken by India:

    • In January 2021, India established a task force on sustainable finance under the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance.
      • The task force’s objectives include creating a framework for sustainable finance, establishing pillars for a sustainable finance roadmap, suggesting a draft taxonomy of sustainable activities, and creating a framework of risk assessment by the financial sector.
    • In April 2021, the RBI joined the Central Banks and Supervisors Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) as a member.
    • RBI is also a member of a task force on climate-related financial risks set up by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision and the International Platform on Sustainable Finance.

    Potential for Green Investments in India

      • According to a report by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), India has a climate-smart investment potential of $3.1 trillion from 2018 to 2030.
      • The largest investment opportunity lies in the electric vehicle segment, with a potential of $667 billion as India aims to electrify all new vehicles by 2030.
    • The renewable energy sector also presents a substantial investment opportunity, estimated at $403.7 billion.

    International Adoption of Taxonomies

    • Many countries have either started developing or have finalized their taxonomies.
    • Countries with developed taxonomies include South Africa, Colombia, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Canada, and Mexico.
    • The European Union has also developed its own taxonomy.

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN, and it will go into effect in 2017.
    2. The Agreement aims to limit the greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2ºC or even 1.5ºC above pre-industrial levels.
    3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 3 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) 2 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • CPCB plans to check violations in Plastic Waste Trading Regime 

    Why in the News?

    • The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has started a national audit of about 800 plastic-waste recyclers across India.
      • This action follows the discovery that four firms in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat issued nearly 600,000 fake certificates under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programme.

    About Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB): Overview

    • The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization established in September 1974.
    • It was constituted under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
    • CPCB is also entrusted with powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
    • It serves as a technical arm of the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, implementing the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

    Principal Functions:

    • Water Pollution Control:
      • Promote the cleanliness of streams and wells in different states by preventing, controlling, and abating water pollution.
      • Oversee the National Water Quality Monitoring Program to collect, collate, and disseminate technical and statistical data relating to water pollution.
    • Air Pollution Control:
      • Improve the quality of air and prevent, control, or abate air pollution in the country.
      • Conduct air quality monitoring as part of air quality management.
      • Implement the National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP) to determine current air quality status and trends, regulate pollution from industries, and provide background air quality data for industrial siting and town planning.

    Key Initiatives and Programs:

    • National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP): Established to monitor air quality status and trends, and to control and regulate industrial pollution to meet air quality standards.
    • National Air Quality Index (NAQI): Provides real-time air quality data and trends.
    • Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): A set of measures to be taken based on the severity of air pollution levels.
    • Clean Air Campaign: Initiatives aimed at reducing air pollution through public awareness and actionable measures.

    Role in Data Management:

    • CPCB collects, collates, and disseminates technical and statistical data related to water and air pollution.
    • Provides necessary data for regulatory and planning purposes, including industrial siting and urban planning.

    What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme?

    • Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) means the responsibility of a producer for the environmentally sound management of the product until the end of its life.
    • India had first introduced EPR in 2011 under the:
    1. Plastic Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011
    2. E-Waste Management and Handling Rules, 2011.
    • The EPR scheme requires businesses using plastic packaging to recycle a certain percentage of the plastic used in the previous two years.

    Implementation of EPR:

    • Registration: Producers must register with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and submit an EPR plan.
    • Collection Mechanisms: Producers set up collection centers, return schemes, or partner with authorized recyclers to manage waste.
    • Documentation: Producers are required to maintain detailed records of waste collected and processed and submit regular reports to the CPCB.
    • Compliance Audits: The CPCB conducts audits to ensure that producers comply with EPR requirements.

    Function of EPR Certificates:

    • Registered plastic waste recyclers generate EPR certificates by recycling plastic waste.
    • Every tonne of plastic recycled generates a certificate.
      • According to a CPCB report in May, nearly 3.7 million tonnes of recycled plastic generated certificates.
    • In 2022-23, about 18,000 companies using plastic packaging were registered with the CPCB, aiming to recycle about 3.3 million tonnes.

    Compliance and Targets:

    • Companies must recycle 70% of the packaging used in the previous two financial years for 2022-23 and 100% for 2023-24. Non-compliance with these targets can result in fines.
    • EPR certificates are uploaded on a dedicated portal maintained by the CPCB, allowing recyclers and buyers to trade online.

    PYQ:

    [2019] In India, ‘extended producer responsibility’ was introduced as an important feature in which of the following?

    (a) The Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998

    (b) The Recycled Plastic (Manufacturing and Usage) Rules, 1999

    (c) The e-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011

    (d) The Food Safety and Standard Regulations, 2011

  • India plans to enter into a carbon crediting mechanism with Japan 

    Why in the news? 

    India is set to establish a Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) with Japan for carbon trading and emission-reduction credits.

    Memorandum of Cooperation for Setting Up a Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM)

    • Objective and Framework: India and Japan plan to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation to establish a Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) for sharing emission-reduction credits. The JCM will involve a structured allocation of carbon credits and maintain a registry to track these credits, with projects needing clearance from a Joint Committee.
    • Implementation and Oversight: The mechanism will be governed under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement, adhering to relevant domestic laws and regulations of both countries. A Joint Committee will develop rules, manage project cycles, and oversee monitoring and issuance of credits.

    Emission Cuts

    • Credit Allocation: Credits issued under the JCM will contribute to both Japan’s and India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. The JCM will avoid double counting of credits and may authorize some credits for international mitigation purposes.
    • Technology Transfer and Capacity Building: Japan will support technology transfer, finance, and capacity building to enhance the effectiveness of the JCM and facilitate the adoption of new technologies.

    Significance of JCM:

    • Increased Access to Clean Technologies: The JCM will facilitate the transfer of advanced decarbonizing technologies from Japan to India, such as renewable energy systems, energy-efficient appliances, and waste management solutions.
    • Job Creation and Skill Development: The implementation of JCM projects will create new employment opportunities in sectors like renewable energy, energy efficiency, and waste management

    Bilateral ties between India and Japan

    • Strategic Partnership: The JCM will strengthen bilateral ties between India and Japan by fostering collaboration on low-carbon technologies and climate action, aimed at boosting job creation and investments in clean technologies.
    • Clean Energy Partnership: It was launched in March 2022, the India-Japan Clean Energy Partnership (CEP) aims to enhance cooperation in sustainable energy transitions to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
    • Investment Commitments: During the 14th India-Japan Annual Summit in March 2022, both nations agreed on a target of $42 billion (JPY 5 trillion) in public and private investment from Japan to India over the next five years
    • Low Carbon Emission Strategies: A $600 million fund was established to focus on environmental sustainability and low carbon emission strategies. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance Japanese investments in India while addressing climate change.

    Way forward: 

    • Prioritize the adoption of cutting-edge decarbonizing technologies: Japan should prioritize the transfer of its most advanced low-carbon technologies to India, such as renewable energy systems, energy-efficient appliances, and carbon capture and storage solutions.
    • Expand the scope of the JCM to include other areas of climate cooperation: While the initial focus of the JCM should be on emission reduction projects, India and Japan could explore expanding its scope to include other areas of climate cooperation, such as adaptation measures, climate finance, and capacity building.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Clean energy is the order of the day.’ Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • The issue with India’s tree planting schemes

    Why in the news? 

    India’s tree planting schemes have garnered attention as part of the country’s efforts to combat climate change and restore degraded ecosystems. However, these initiatives face several challenges and criticisms.

    Recent Trends of Special Conservation Drives:

    • Increased Initiatives: There has been a surge in global and national tree planting drives, such as the “One Trillion Project” by the World Economic Forum, Pakistan’s “10 Billion Tree Tsunami,” China’s “Great Green Wall,” and the “Bonn Challenge” to restore degraded landscapes.
    • High Media Attention: These drives often feature catchy slogans and glamorous campaigns that attract substantial media attention and public involvement.
    • Annual Events: India celebrates Van Mahotsava annually in July, aiming to promote tree planting and environmental conservation.

    Issues Associated with These Drives:

    • Limited Community Participation: Many programs lack significant involvement from local communities, affecting their effectiveness and sustainability.
    • Post-Planting Measures: Insufficient focus on post-planting care and monitoring hinders the success of tree planting efforts.
    • Monoculture Risks: Some drives promote monoculture, which can be detrimental to biodiversity and carbon sequestration.
    • Ecological Impact: Inappropriate tree planting in non-deforested areas like grasslands or animal habitats can damage ecosystems, increase wildfire risk, and exacerbate global warming.

    India’s Accountability and Challenges Toward Environmental Goals:

    • Achievements: India claims to have fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments and achieved an additional carbon sink of 1.97 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
    • Encroachment and Loss: Approximately 10 million hectares of Indian forests are under encroachment, and about 5.7 million hectares have been lost for non-forestry purposes.
    • Dependence on Forests: Nearly 27.5 crore people rely on forests for subsistence, highlighting the importance of sustainable management.
    • Restoration Goals: India aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded forests by 2030, but faces challenges such as encroachment and the need for effective tree planting strategies.

    Way forward: 

    • Community Involvement: Need to foster local participation in tree planting drives by involving communities in planning, execution, and ongoing maintenance.
    • Monitoring and Maintenance: Try to implement robust post-planting monitoring and care systems to ensure the survival and growth of planted trees.
    • Policy and Strategy Improvements: To address criticism of mass planting drives, India needs to prioritize adequate financing, active community participation, and technical considerations in forestry and restoration strategies.