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

  • A green transition, but not without the coal-rich states

    green transition

    Central idea

    India’s green transition faces challenges as coal-rich states encounter fiscal implications and regional imbalances. The article emphasizes the need for inclusive development, addressing fiscal concerns, and reviving balanced regional developmentalism to ensure a fair and effective energy transition.

    Key issues highlighted in the article

    • In August 2023, 5% of grid-connected RE generation came from eight states.
    • The Central Electricity Authority’s report projects solar and wind to constitute almost 51% of total generation capacity and nearly 31% of all generated power by 2030.
    • The massive RE build-out has mainly benefited western and southern states.
    • Research indicates that RE-poor, coal-rich states may face a double hit to state revenues due to declining coal royalties and increasing electricity imports.
    • The combined revenue impact could worsen budget deficits of RE-poor power-importing states by almost 8.66% on average.
    • Frictions exist between Union and state governments regarding central policies, transmission waivers, and financing struggles in the power sector.

    Present Status:

    • Recent developments indicate a continued reliance on coal, raising questions about the trajectory of India’s energy transition.
    • The dominance of specific states in RE generation highlights regional imbalances.

    UPSC mains relevance:

    • Ongoing debates on India’s energy transition and challenges in balancing fiscal interests.
    • Understanding the role of state finances in achieving national renewable energy goals.
    • Familiarity with the potential fiscal impacts of transitioning from coal to renewables in different states.

    Key Challenges:

    • Declining coal royalties and increasing RE procurement costs pose a fiscal challenge for coal-rich states.
    • The combined revenue impact could exacerbate budget deficits of RE-poor states by almost 8.66%, breaching norms established by the Fiscal Responsibility and Budgetary Management Act, 2003.
    • Tensions between the Union and states regarding power sector policies, transmission waivers, and centralization of electricity markets.
    • The displacement of RE integration costs onto state transmission companies raises concerns.

    Relevant Data from Article:

    • In August 2023, 92.5% of grid-connected RE generation came from eight states, primarily in the western and southern regions.
    • The Central Electricity Authority’s projection expects solar and wind to constitute nearly 51% of total generation capacity by 2030.

    Way Forward:

    • Revive the philosophy of balanced regional developmentalism, ensuring that RE-poor states have a substantial stake in the energy transition.
    • Preferential lending for RE projects in such states by state lenders.
    • Reinforce institutions like the Inter-State Council to facilitate greater state participation in federal power negotiations.
    • Explicit financial transfers to RE-poor states through the Finance Commission.
    • Implement just transition mechanisms for collaborative industrial policies, ensuring a fair distribution of benefits and challenges.

    Conclusion:

    Ensuring a green transition in India necessitates addressing the fiscal and regional disparities. The revival of balanced regional developmentalism and inclusive policies is crucial to prevent the energy transition from exacerbating existing inequalities. The focus should be on collaborative federalism, just transition mechanisms, and empowering all states to actively participate in and benefit from the ongoing energy transformation.

  • Mitigating tragedies in the Himalayan region

    Central idea

    The article highlights the increasing risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) in the Indian Himalayan Region due to climate change. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary effort to develop early warning systems and mitigation strategies for high-risk glacial lakes.

    Definition of GLOFs:

    • Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) are sudden and massive releases of water from glacial lakes, often triggered by the collapse of glacial moraines or other natural events. These floods pose severe threats to downstream areas.

    Features of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)

    • Rapid Onset: Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) are characterized by their sudden and rapid onset. These floods can unleash enormous amounts of water in a short period, often catching downstream communities off guard.
    • Highly Destructive: GLOFs are highly destructive natural disasters. The massive volume of water released during an outburst can lead to flash floods, causing widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and ecosystems in the affected areas.
    • Glacial Lakes as Time Bombs: Glacial lakes, formed by the melting of glaciers, act as reservoirs for potential GLOFs. The increasing rate of glacier melt, attributed to climate change, raises concerns about the growing number of these ‘time bombs’ that could pose threats to downstream regions.
    • Global Impact: GLOFs are not confined to specific regions but have a global impact. The risk of GLOFs exists in various mountainous areas worldwide, including the Himalayas, Andes, Alps, and the Rocky Mountains. Climate change exacerbates these risks, making GLOFs a concern on a broader scale.

    Consequences of GLOFs:

    • Flash Floods: The rapid release of water leads to flash floods downstream, causing immediate and extensive damage.
    • Morphological Changes: GLOFs alter the landscape, leading to changes in river courses and topography.
    • Loss of Life and Property: Downstream communities face a high risk of casualties, property damage, and loss of livelihoods.
    • Permanent Changes: GLOFs bring permanent alterations to the affected areas, impacting their socio-economic fabric.

    Challenges in Monitoring and Prediction:

    • Monitoring and predicting such cascading events are challenging, requiring an integrated system for early warnings and risk mitigation.
    • The Himalayan Region faces a range of hydro-meteorological, tectonic, climate, and human-induced mountain hazards, making monitoring and estimation difficult due to the multitude of glaciers and temporal variations in glacial recession.

    Well known examples

    • South Lhonak Lake, Sikkim (2023): The recent glacial lake outburst flood in Sikkim resulted in the death of 14 people and left 102 missing. The South Lhonak Lake, situated at 17,000 ft, burst due to incessant rains, causing flash floods in downstream areas along the Teesta river.
    • Chorabari Tal, Uttarakhand (2013): In 2013, flash floods and a glacial lake outburst flood were triggered by the Chorabari Tal glacial lake in Uttarakhand’s Kedarnath. The event caused widespread destruction, leading to the loss of thousands of lives.

    Government Schemes and Initiatives

    • Early Warning Systems: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) led a preparatory mission, installing automated cameras and monitoring equipment at high-altitude glacial lakes. Despite challenges, this initiative is a step towards developing an end-to-end early warning system.
    • Geo-technical Solutions: Globally, measures like excavating channels, drainage systems, spillway construction, and small catchment dams have been attempted. However, implementing these at high altitudes faces formidable challenges, including inaccessibility and harsh conditions.
    • National Remote Sensing Centre’s Atlas: The NRSC’s Glacial Lake Atlas of 2023 provides crucial data on the distribution of glacial lakes. It highlights the vast number of high-risk lakes in the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra basins, emphasizing the enormity of the challenge.

    Way Forward

    • Integrated Efforts: Addressing the GLOF risk requires collaboration across institutions. The NRSC’s remote sensing data, the Central Water Commission’s hydro-dynamic assessments, and the NDMA’s guidelines contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the hazard.
    • Comprehensive GLOF Risk Mitigation Plan: A plan is in progress, focusing on installing monitoring and early warning systems. However, the success of this plan depends on the collective efforts of governments and scientific institutions.

     

    Conclusion

    Mitigating GLOFs demands immediate attention. The integration of resources and capacities, along with a focus on prevention and mitigation, will reduce the impact on downstream communities. The government’s initiatives and collaborative efforts are crucial steps towards ensuring the stability and resilience of Himalayan communities in the face of increasing climate risks.

     

  • Why Mumbai is witnessing more poor air quality days

    mumbai

    Central Idea

    • Mumbai, known for its coastal breeze and cleaner air, is grappling with an annual decline in air quality, resembling Delhi’s long-standing pollution woes.
    • The city’s coastal location, once considered a safeguard against air pollution, is no longer a reliable defense.

    Air Quality Deterioration in Mumbai

    • Geographic Advantage Eroded: Mumbai’s coastal location was historically its shield against air pollution, with sea breezes dispersing particles.
    • Comparable Pollution Levels: Last year, Mumbai experienced an extended period of poor air quality, overlapping with Delhi’s notorious smog issue.

    Meteorological Influence

    • Crucial Wind Patterns: Winds’ direction and strength play a pivotal role in shaping Mumbai’s air quality. Despite similar pollutant emissions to Delhi, the city’s coastal nature provides an advantage.
    • Sea-Land Wind Cycle: Typically, winds alternate between sea-to-land and land-to-sea movements every few days, aiding natural cleansing. Disruptions in this cycle can impact air quality.

    Reasons for such poor air quality

    • La Nina’s Role: The recent dip in La Nina, characterized by ocean surface cooling and altered wind patterns, contributed to elevated particulate matter levels in Mumbai.
    • Prolonged Pollution: La Nina’s influence delayed the expected strong wind reversal from the sea, trapping pollutants in the lower atmosphere for extended periods.
    • Change in Weather Phenomenon: La Nina has given way to El Nino, albeit weaker. Its specific impact on Mumbai’s air quality remains uncertain.
    • Prevalent Construction Projects: The city is currently witnessing construction activities at a staggering 6,000 sites, posing a significant challenge to air quality.
    • Dust Displacement: Dust particles from roads and vehicles transporting construction debris add to Mumbai’s pollution burden.
    • Domestic Sources: Restaurants, dhabas, and eateries using unclean oils for cooking release ultrafine particles, oil droplets, and condensed organic compounds, along with harmful gases such as nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide.

    How local weather fuels it?

    • Calm Winds and Temperature Gradient: As the monsoon retreated, Mumbai experienced calmer winds. A substantial temperature difference between the city and nearby Sahyadri ranges led to winds carrying dust from construction sites in Navi Mumbai.
    • Local Weather Not Sole Culprit: Unfavorable local weather conditions are not solely responsible for Mumbai’s air quality decline.
    • Baseline Pollution High: Mumbai’s consistent and escalating pollutant emissions are exceeding its environmental capacity.
    • Economic Growth: Increased economic activity, higher vehicle numbers, extensive construction, and elevated consumption contribute to rising emissions.

    Conclusion

    • Mumbai’s air quality predicament signals the urgency of addressing escalating pollution sources and fortifying mitigation measures.
    • While meteorological conditions play a role, the city’s growing economic activity and emissions are the driving forces behind its deteriorating air quality.
    • Relevant authorities must take proactive steps to combat this issue and ensure a healthier environment for its residents.

  • Restoring the ecological health of the Himalayas

     

    himalaya

    Central idea

    The Supreme Court is exploring the Himalayan region’s carrying capacity to address environmental concerns. Critics advocate a broader, inclusive approach involving multiple institutes and citizen representation for a sustainable, people-centric strategy. The focus is on engaging local communities and assessing the social dimensions for lasting solutions.

    Carrying Capacity Definition

    Carrying capacity refers to the maximum sustainable population size an ecosystem can support without significant harm. It’s crucial for balancing human activities with environmental preservation.

    Importance of ecological health of Himalaya

    • Biodiversity Hub: The Himalayas host diverse flora and fauna, making the region crucial for the conservation of numerous endemic and endangered species.
    • Water Source for Asia: As the “Water Tower of Asia,” the Himalayas contribute to major river systems, providing water to millions downstream, emphasizing the importance of ecological health.
    • Climate Regulation: The Himalayas play a pivotal role in global climate regulation, influencing weather patterns, monsoons, and serving as a natural buffer against the impacts of climate change.
    • Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Beyond ecology, the Himalayas hold cultural and spiritual importance, and their ecological well-being is intertwined with the traditional practices and beliefs of local communities.
    Some interesting facts

    The Himalayas harbor over 50% of the world’s plant species.

    Himalayan glaciers supply water to major rivers, supporting nearly 1.5 billion people.

    Snow leopards, a rare and endangered species, find refuge in the Himalayan mountain ranges.

    The Himalayan region is a biodiversity hotspot with unique species like the Himalayan monal, a vibrantly colored pheasant.

     

    Key Challenges and Ineffective Past Initiatives:

    • Despite previous efforts, progress on assessing and implementing carrying capacity plans has been minimal.
    • Flawed recommendations from the Ministry, with the same individuals responsible for environmental damage now tasked with finding solutions.
    • The suggested reliance on the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment overlooks the significance of other relevant institutes in policymaking.
    • A myopic emphasis on towns and cities, without considering the broader impact of infrastructure, like road networks creating spontaneous settlements.

    Government Schemes and Initiatives:

    • National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (2010).
    • Indian Himalayas Climate Adaptation Programme.
    • Secure Himalaya Project.
    • Guidelines on ‘Carrying Capacity in the IHR’ circulated on January 30, 2020.
    • Ministry’s reminder on May 19, 2023, urging States to submit carrying capacity action plans if not undertaken.

    Way Forward:

    • Holistic Regional Focus: Include under-explored areas like the Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, where rapid tourism growth may impact the local ecosystem. Similarly, consider the less urbanized parts of Sikkim, such as Dzongu, facing challenges in waste management due to an increase in population.
    • Emphasize Sustainable Population: Prioritize assessing the carrying capacity with a focus on “Sustainable Population.” For instance, examine the impact of population growth on water sources in regions like Lachen in Sikkim, known for its pristine lakes and rivers.
    • Citizen Representation: Include citizens from diverse backgrounds, like the Gaddis in Himachal Pradesh or the Lepchas in Sikkim, ensuring that indigenous knowledge contributes to sustainable solutions.
    • Biological Diversity: Evaluate the overall sustainable capacity by considering the rich biological diversity in areas like the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand. Understand the delicate balance in ecosystems supporting various species.
    • Water Management: Assess the sustainable capacity of water resources, acknowledging concerns raised by citizens in regions like Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Here, water plays a crucial role in agriculture, and any disruption affects the livelihoods of the Monpa community.

    Conclusion:

    The imperative for sustainable development in the Himalayan region requires a comprehensive assessment of carrying capacity. The Supreme Court’s intervention serves as a catalyst for a people-centric, inclusive, and holistic approach, emphasizing long-term environmental health and citizen involvement. With united efforts we will restore Himalayan glory again

  • The Indian Himalayan Region needs its own EIA

    What’s the news?

    • In light of the recent Teesta dam breach in Sikkim and floods in Himachal Pradesh, the potential negative impact of developmental activities on our ecology, especially in the mountains, is evident.

    Central idea

    • The recent Teesta dam breach in Sikkim and devastating floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh have underscored the destructive consequences of our current development model. It is crucial to evaluate the environmental repercussions of significant human endeavors in order to strike a balance between development and ecological preservation.

    What is EIA?

    • Definition: EIA, or Environment Impact Assessment, is a process defined by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to gauge the environmental, social, and economic impacts of a project before implementation.
    • Functions: It contrasts various project alternatives, predicts environmental consequences, and suggests appropriate mitigation strategies.

    EIA’s Historical Development in India

    • 1976–77: A precursor to EIA began with an evaluation of river valley projects.
    • 1994: The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change introduced the first EIA notification.
    • 2006: The 2006 notification decentralized the process, allowing states to issue EC (Environmental Clearance) in specific cases. This policy was later amended for refinement.
    • The 2020 draft EIA was criticized as favoring industries while neglecting ecological concerns.

    EIA 2006 Notification’s Scope and Limitations

    • It establishes the procedure for giving EC.
    • Only specific projects listed in the attached schedule require an EC.
    • It categorizes projects (e.g., mining, power generation). However, the threshold limits for requiring an EIA remain consistent nationwide.

    The Potential of EIA for Sustainable Development

    • Informed Decision-Making: EIA provides data for informed choices that balance development with environmental concerns.
    • Early Risk Identification: EIA identifies and mitigates potential environmental harm, promoting sustainable project designs.
    • Public Participation: EIA’s public consultations enhance transparency and inclusive decision-making.
    • Legal Framework: EIA is part of the legal framework for environmental protection, ensuring adherence to standards.
    • Long-Term Focus: EIA emphasizes long-term sustainability by assessing projects’ lasting impacts.

    Ignoring the Himalayan region

    • Inconsistency: Despite understanding the unique needs of the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), its vulnerabilities aren’t addressed separately in the EIA.
    • Issue: Both the old and 2020 draft notifications don’t differentiate the IHR from the rest of India in terms of development needs.
    • Impact: This oversight results in the Himalayan States facing yearly devastation from extreme weather conditions.

    Flaws in the Graded Approach

    • The current approach differentiates risk based on location (e.g., reserved forest, national park). But the IHR, despite its ecological significance, is treated the same as other regions.

    Proposed Solutions

    • Differentiate environmental standards for projects in the IHR.
    • Address IHR-specific concerns at all EIA stages.
    • Include provisions about the IHR in general conditions for all projects.

    Existing Issues with the EIA

    • Lack of Oversight: There is no national regulator for transparent project appraisal and monitoring.
    • Reactive Nature: EIA currently reacts to proposals rather than preempting them.
    • Biased Assessments: Often, EIAs are in favor of projects because they’re funded by the project proponent.
    • Limited Scope: The current process doesn’t adequately consider the cumulative impacts of multiple projects in a region.

    Conclusion

    • The EIA process, especially concerning the IHR, requires a comprehensive review. Exploring tools like strategic environmental assessment can be more effective in addressing the cumulative impact of development in regions like the IHR. Policymakers should prioritize the environment and ecology in their developmental plans.

  • Rethinking the 2022 Wildlife Protection Act

    What’s the news?

    • The recent inclusion of a plethora of species in the new schedules of the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022 has raised numerous questions among ecologists.

    Central idea

    • The inclusion of a multitude of species in its schedules has raised concerns about the lack of an objective and replicable process. While the intention behind the amendment is to enhance conservation efforts, it is imperative to address the issues it raises in terms of conservation, its impact on people, and its implications for research.

    Overview of the New Act

    • Schedule 1: Houses around 600 species of vertebrates and numerous invertebrates, with the highest protection.
    • Schedule 2: Contains roughly 2,000 species, including 1,134 bird species.
    • Alignment with CITES: The act also incorporates the CITES appendices.

    Concerns for Conservation

    • Ambiguity in Resource Allocation: The act does not provide a clear direction on prioritizing species for resource allocation.
    • Uniform Protection Levels: Species ranging from tigers to jackals and from great Indian bustards to common barn owls are accorded the same protection level.
    • Unintended Consequences: Acts meant to conserve might sometimes yield counterproductive results. For instance, listing the invasive spotted deer (chital) in Schedule 1 has inadvertently protected it, despite the harm it inflicts on the Andaman Islands’ ecosystem.

    Impact on Humans

    • Human-Wildlife Conflict: The WLPA underlines the concept of co-existence, often neglecting the harm certain species can cause to humans, both physically and psychologically. By elevating wild pigs and nilgai to Schedule 1, the act potentially limits states’ abilities to cull problematic animals, disregarding farmers’ concerns.
    • Traditional Practices Overlooked: Despite hunting and use of certain animals being traditional practices, the WLPA imposes restrictions. There’s a lack of balance between conservation needs and societal traditions.
    • Research Constraints: The listing of a vast number of species could inhibit research. Securing permits for research becomes a convoluted process. Furthermore, the act’s implications on citizen science and data sharing remain unclear.

    Broader Issues

    • Some ecologists have been observed to neglect the broader issues.
    • Their operations sometimes resemble ‘parachute science’, taking more than they give back to local communities.
    • The implications of this act not only hinder research, but also severely impact these communities.

    Way Forward

    • Transparent Inclusion Process: Develop a replicable and objective process for the inclusion of species in the schedules. This could be based on ecological significance, population sizes, and expert consultations.
    • Reassess and Reclassify Species: A re-evaluation of species, especially those like the spotted deer in the Andaman Islands, is necessary. Reallocating species between schedules can ensure more appropriate protection levels.
    • Resource Allocation Blueprint: Given the vast number of species included, a clear guideline for resource allocation is essential. It should be based on urgency, ecological significance, and conservation viability.
    • Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation: Design a more nuanced policy for managing conflicts. It should include better conflict response, compensation schemes, and awareness programs, especially in areas where Schedule 1 species are in direct conflict with human populations.
    • Reconsideration of Traditional Practices: Address the disconnect between the Act and traditional practices by incorporating provisions for regulated and sustainable use of species, especially where they are abundant and pose no threat to their populations.

    Conclusion

    • The imperative now is a balanced approach that ensures human safety, bases management actions on research, and permits observation without harming the ecosystem, respecting both human rights and wildlife conservation.

  • Places in news: Dhanauri Wetland

    Dhanauri Wetland

    Central Idea

    • The National Green Tribunal has given the UP government four weeks to inform it about the status of the Ramsar tag for Dhanauri wetlands.

    Dhanauri Wetland

    • The Dhanauri Wetlands is a bird-watching area located in Dhanauri village near Dankaur in Uttar Pradesh.
    • It is home to over 120 Sarus cranes (Sarus Cranes is the state bird of Uttar Pradesh).
    • It is a sanctuary for 23 species of endangered, critically endangered, and threatened birds, with special significance as a habitat for the majestic Sarus crane.

    Ecological Significance

    • Dhanauri is a natural wetland that hosts more than 217 bird species, including over 150 Sarus cranes, and serves as a vital birding and nesting site.
    • It has received recognition as an Important Bird Area by Bird Life International and has been documented by the BNHS (Bombay Natural History Society).
    • During peak migratory seasons (November to March), the wetland hosts over 50,000 waterfowls.

    Why in news?

    • Dhanauri plays a crucial role in supporting the vulnerable Sarus crane population.
    • The wetland fulfills two key Ramsar site criteria out of nine:
      1. It hosts over 1% of the biogeographic Sarus crane population.
      2. The area serves as a congregation site for 20,000+ waterfowls and various other species.

    Ramsar Wetlands

    • The Ramsar Convention, also known as the ‘Convention on Wetlands,’ is an intergovernmental environmental treaty founded by UNESCO in 1971.
    • It derives its name from the city of Ramsar in Iran, where it was initially signed.
    • Ramsar sites are wetlands of global significance recognized under this treaty.
    • The Montreux Record is a register of wetland sites on the brink of ecological changes and in need of close monitoring under the Ramsar Convention.

    Ramsar Site Designation Criteria:

    Ramsar site designation hinges on several factors:

    1. Representing rare or unique natural wetland types.
    2. Supporting endangered species or threatened ecological communities.
    3. Maintaining biodiversity in specific biogeographic regions.
    4. Offering refuge during adverse conditions.
    5. Regularly accommodating 20,000 or more waterbirds.
    6. Sustaining 1% of a population of a single water-bird species.
    7. Serving as a critical source of food, spawning grounds, nurseries, and migration paths for fish.
    8. Regularly supporting 1% of a population of non-avian wetland-dependent animal species.

  • Centre launches Green Credit Program (GCP)

    Green Credit Program (GCP)

    Central Idea

    • The Centre has introduced a Green Credit Program (GCP) that allows individuals and entities to earn Green Credits, which can be traded on a dedicated exchange.

    What is the Green Credit Program (GCP)?

    • Objective: Aims to establish a competitive, market-based approach encouraging diverse stakeholders to undertake environmental actions.
    • Nodal Agency: Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.

    Mechanics of Green Credit

    • Voluntary Participation: Reflects inclusivity, as engagement in the program is entirely voluntary.
    • Entities: The program extends to a diverse range of entities, encompassing individuals, industries, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), urban local bodies (ULBs), gram panchayats, and private sectors.
    • Tradability: Tradable, fostering participation in a proposed domestic market platform.
    • Certificates: Upon approval, applicants receive Green Credit certificates.

    Covered Activities

    • Qualifying Activities: The program includes various activities such as tree plantation, water conservation, sustainable agriculture, waste management, air pollution reduction, mangrove conservation, eco-mark initiatives, sustainable building, and infrastructure development.
    • Registration and Verification: Participants must register their activities on the program’s website, which will undergo verification by a designated agency.

    How are Green Credits computed?

    • Equitable Calculation: Green Credits are determined based on resource equivalence, scalability, scope, size, and other relevant parameters, aiming to achieve desired environmental outcomes.
    • Credit Registry: A dedicated Green Credit Registry will oversee the tracking and management of these credits.
    • Trading Platform: An administrator will establish and maintain a trading platform for the exchange of Green Credits within the domestic market.

    Alignment with Legal Obligations

    • Non-Tradable for Legal Compliance: Green Credits obtained for legal compliance purposes will not be tradable, ensuring adherence to existing laws.
    • Independent from Carbon Credit Scheme: The GCP operates separately from the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023, established under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
    • Additional Climate Benefits: Activities generating Green Credits may also yield climate-related advantages, such as carbon emissions reduction, potentially resulting in the acquisition of carbon credits.

  • Kanwar Lake: Bihar’s only Ramsar Site drying up

    kanwar lake

    Central Idea

    • Kawar Lake, Bihar’s only Ramsar Site, is experiencing a significant decrease in water levels and degradation.
    • However, it is drying up due to negligence.

    About Kanwar Lake/ Kabartal Wetland

    • The Kanwar Lake is Asia’s largest oxbow lake situated in the Begusarai district of Bihar.
    • It is a residual oxbow lake, formed due to the meandering of Gandak River, a tributary of Ganga.
    • It was declared a Ramsar site in 2020, making it the first wetland in Bihar to be included in the Ramsar convention.
    • This lake draws water from the confluence of the Gandak, the Bia and the Kareh river – is situated near Manjhaul, 22 km northwest of Begusarai, the district headquarters.

    Various threats to Kanwar Lake

    • Challenges include migratory bird hunting, agricultural activities around wetland areas, and government policies related to wetland management and conservation.
    • This decline has negatively impacted the livelihoods of around 20,000 Nishad community members in nearby villages who depend on fishing.

    Bihar’s Wetland Potential

    • Bihar possesses a substantial area of wetlands, covering around 4.4% of its total geographical area, according to data from ISRO.
    • Despite its wetland potential, Bihar has only one recognized Ramsar site out of a total of 75 in India.

    Potential Wetlands

    • Bihar has proposed several wetlands for Ramsar designation, including Kusheshwarsthan, Barela, Goga Bil, Nagiand Nakti dams, Udaipur Lake, Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, and Gokul Reservoir.
    • These wetlands are home to a range of wildlife, including migratory birds and endangered species like dolphins.

    Back2Basics:

    Ramsar Convention
    Purpose International treaty aimed at conserving and promoting the sustainable use of wetlands.
    Establishment Established on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
    Participating Countries 171 contracting parties (countries) as of September 2021.
    India and Ramsar Convention The first Ramsar Site in India, the Chilika Lake in Odisha, was designated in 1981.

  • Status of Dumpsite Remediation across India

    Dumpsite Remediation

    Central Idea

    • Dumpsite remediation in India holds immense significance due to its profound impact on the environment, public health, and overall quality of life.
    • These unregulated dumpsites release harmful gases, pollute air and water, and pose severe health risks to nearby communities.

    Dumpsite Remediation: Government Initiatives and Progress

    • Govt Commitment: The Indian government aims to remediate all dumpsites in the country by 2025 under the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) 2.0.
    • Progress Overview: Over 82.7 million tonnes of waste have been remediated, reclaiming 3,477 acres of land.
    • State Progress: Mizoram has fully remediated its waste, while states like Chandigarh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat have addressed 50-60% of their legacy waste.

    Challenges and Complexities

    • Topographical Challenges: States with mountainous terrains like Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Ladakh, and Jammu & Kashmir face difficulties in waste transport and utilization.
    • Economic Viability: Some states struggle to find economically viable disposal options for combustible fractions and fine soil-like material.
    • Waste Composition: Around 8% of legacy waste comprises combustible fractions.
    • Limited Co-Processing Units: India has 54 co-processing units, with only 13 states having operational units.

    Benefits of Recovered Material

    • Construction and Filling Solutions: Repurposed fine soil-like material can be used in road construction and to stabilize flood-prone areas.
    • Improving Engineering Properties: Fine soil enhances roadbed engineering.
    • Elevation and Stabilization: Fine fraction elevates and stabilizes low-lying areas.

    Another aspect: GHGs Emissions from Waste

    Methane Emission Sources

    • Wastewater’s High Contribution: Wastewater treatment is a major source of methane emissions.
    • Organic Matter Decomposition: Methane is produced during organic matter decomposition in wastewater and solid waste disposal.
    • Solid Waste Disposal: Methane is generated in landfills, open dumps, and waste disposal sites.

    Overall Methane Emissions in India

    • India’s Methane Emissions: In 2016, India emitted 409 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent methane.
    • Sector-Wise Breakdown: Agriculture contributed 73.96%, waste 14.46%, energy 10.62%, and industrial processes 0.96%.
    • Key Contributors: Open dumpsites and landfills are significant sources.

    Lost Opportunities and Climate Impact

    • Persistent Methane Emissions: Even capped landfills emit methane due to biochemical reactions.
    • Untapped Energy Resource: Methane emissions represent missed energy opportunities.
    • Biogas Potential: 1 TPD of biodegradable waste can produce 80-100 cubic meters of biogas.
    • Environmental Harm: Disposing of biodegradable waste in landfills releases methane, a climate pollutant.

    Harnessing Methane for a Sustainable Future

    • Bio-Methanation: Implementing bio-methanation processes can capture methane for various applications.
    • Beneficial Applications: Captured methane can be converted into bio-CNG, electricity, or other fuels.
    • Material Suitability: Recovered material must meet engineering and environmental standards.
    • Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with local regulations is essential.

    Conclusion

    • Navigating Waste Remediation: India faces challenges and opportunities in dumpsite remediation. Addressing topographical barriers, ensuring economic viability, and maximizing material utilization are critical.
    • A Missed Opportunity: Dumpsites emit methane, a valuable energy resource. Proper waste management can mitigate climate impacts and unlock economic benefits.