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Subject: Conservation & Mitigation

1. Conservation Progs.
2. Worldwide initiatives
3. Mitigation Strategies
4. Conventions and Protocols

  • Controversy over Mumbai’s salt pans

    Why in the News?

    The Centre has recently approved transferring 256 acres of Mumbai’s salt pan land to DRPPL, a joint venture with Adani Realty, for constructing rental housing for slum residents.

    What are Salt Pan Lands?

    • Salt pan lands are low-lying areas where seawater is allowed to flow in and evaporate, leaving behind salt and other minerals.
    • These lands are part of an important ecological system that, along with mangroves, helps in flood control by absorbing excess water during heavy rainfall and high tides.

    Why are Mumbai’s Salt Pan Lands at Risk?

    • Development Pressures: Salt pans are valuable as undeveloped land in Mumbai, leading to proposals for various development projects, including affordable housing and infrastructure.
    • Government Plans: Recent approvals, such as the transfer of 256 acres of salt pan land for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, have faced criticism due to concerns that such development will encroach on these ecologically sensitive areas.
    • Legal and Administrative Challenges: Past plans for using saltpan lands for development have been put on hold or altered due to legal and environmental challenges, including those concerning the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms.

    Why do Salt Pans Matter?

    • Flood Prevention: Salt pans play a crucial role in preventing flooding in Mumbai’s eastern suburbs by acting as natural reservoirs for excess water during heavy rains and high tides.
      • During significant rainfall events, such as the July 2005 deluge, salt pans helped mitigate the impact of flooding, emphasizing their importance in urban flood management.
    • Environmental Protection: They support local biodiversity, including various species of birds and insects. Destroying or altering these lands could disrupt these ecosystems.
    • Climate Resilience: Salt pans contribute to the city’s climate resilience strategy, making their preservation crucial for managing future climate-related challenges.

    National Context:

    • Across India, approximately 60,000 acres are designated as salt pan lands, distributed among states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.
    • These lands are crucial for local ecosystems and flood management, highlighting the broader importance of preserving such areas from development pressures.

    Way Forward: 

    • Strengthen Environmental Regulations: Enhance the enforcement of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms and other environmental regulations to safeguard salt pan lands.
    • Promote Sustainable Land Use Planning: Integrate salt pan lands into urban planning strategies as critical components of flood management and biodiversity conservation.

  • International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

    Why in the News?

    Natural geographic separation is happening among Asiatic lion populations in Gujarat, and there is no immediate need to relocate them, says the director general of the International Big Cat Alliance.

    About Asiatic Lion

    • Asiatic Lion, part of the Panthera Leo Leo subspecies, is found only in India, with a distinct belly skin fold.
    • Once spread across West Asia and India, now limited to Gir National Park, where the population increased in 2020.
    • Asiatic lions face threats from diseases, natural disasters, poaching and retaliation for livestock attacks.
    • They are classified as Endangered (IUCN), listed in CITES Appendix I, and protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act.
    • The Asiatic Lion Conservation Project (2018-2021) aims for scientific management and community involvement.

     

    About International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

    Details
    Objective Protect and conserve 7 big cats: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar, and cheetah.
    Initial Funding ₹150 crore from the Government of India for five years, with additional funding from global agencies.
    Membership Open to 96 range countries with natural big cat habitats.
    Key Activities Advocacy, knowledge sharing, capacity building, eco-tourism promotion, and resource mobilization.
    Governance General Assembly, elected Council, and Secretariat. Secretary General appointed by the Assembly.
    Governance Framework Based on the International Solar Alliance (ISA); finalized by the International Steering Committee.
    India’s Role
    • India is home to 5 of the 7 big cats: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah.
    • India hosts about 70% of the world’s tiger population and has seen steady growth in its Asiatic lion population.

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] Consider the following:

    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

  • Elongated Tortoise (Indotestudo elongata) spotted in Aravallis

    Why in the News?

    The elongated tortoise (Indotestudo elongata), a critically endangered species, was recently spotted in Haryana’s Damdama area during a research survey in the Aravalli hills.

    About Elongated Tortoise:

    Details
    Physical Features
    • Medium-sized body with a yellowish-brown or olive-colored shell
    • Black blotches at the center of each scute
    • Pink ring around nostrils during breeding season
    Habitat
    • Found in Sal deciduous and hilly evergreen forests
    • Distribution includes Southeast Asia, northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and other regions
    Indian Range Present in the Chhota Nagpur plateau and Himalayan foothills at elevations up to 1,000 meters
    Threats
    • Human exploitation for food and traditional medicine
    • Hunting, often with the help of dogs
    • Habitat degradation and illegal wildlife trade
    Ecological Role Significant species in its ecosystems but highly vulnerable to environmental changes and anthropogenic pressures
    Population Decline Significant population decline due to hunting, habitat degradation, and illegal wildlife trade, despite its wide distribution
    Conservation Status
    • Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List
    • Appendix II under the CITES

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following:

    1. Star tortoise

    2. Monitor lizard

    3. Pygmy hog

    4. Spider monkey

    Which of the above are naturally found in India?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3 and 4

  • India’s first ‘Teal Carbon’ study

    Why in the News?

    India’s first study on teal carbon was conducted at Keoladeo National Park (KNP) in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur district.

    Highlights of the Study

    • The study at KNP aimed to develop holistic solutions for climate change by understanding the potential of teal carbon in mitigating its effects.
    • It highlighted that degraded wetlands could release harmful methane and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, further exacerbating climate challenges.
    • It suggested the use of biochar, a lightweight black residue comprising carbon and ashes.
      • This biochar can help reduce methane discharges and improve wetland conservation.
    • Specialized instruments like the LI-COR device would be required for real-time measurements of greenhouse gases to further the research.

    What is Teal Carbon?

    Details
    Definition Carbon stored in non-tidal freshwater wetlands, including in vegetation, microbial biomass, and organic matter.
    Key Sources Peatlands, freshwater swamps, natural freshwater marshes.
    Global Storage  Approximately 500.21 petagrams of carbon (PgC).
    Threats Pollution, land-use changes, water extraction, and degradation of wetlands.
    Comparison Distinct from black and brown carbon, which are produced by incomplete combustion of organic matter.
    Benefits of Teal Carbon Ecosystems
    • Greenhouse gas reduction
    • Increase in groundwater levels
    • Flood mitigation
    • Heat island reduction
    • Urban adaptation
    Conservation Importance Effective conservation of wetlands can enhance teal carbon pools, contributing to climate regulation and environmental sustainability.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] What is blue carbon?​

    (a) Carbon captured by oceans and coastal ecosystems.​

    (b) Carbon sequestered in forest biomass and agricultural soils.​

    (c) Carbon contained in petroleum and natural gas.​

    (d) Carbon present in atmosphere.​

  • National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)

    Why in the News?

    The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the apex body responsible for tiger conservation, recently issued directives urging 19 States to prioritize the relocation of villagers residing in core tiger zones.

    NTCA’s Directive:

    • According to the NTCA, 591 villages, comprising 64,801 families, reside in the core tiger zone, posing a significant concern for tiger conservation.
    • The core zone refers to the part of a tiger reserve where human activities such as hunting and forest produce collection are PROHIBITED, and tribals CANNOT reside.
      • Outside the core zone is the buffer zone, where certain activities are allowed but regulated.

    About National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA):

    Details
    Constitution Statutory body under MoEFCC, constituted under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
    Chairmanship Chaired by the Minister for Environment and Forests.
    Structure • 8 experts in wildlife conservation and tribal welfare.
    • 3 MPs.
    • Inspector General of Forests as ex-officio Member Secretary.
    Objectives • Provide statutory authority to Project Tiger.
    • Enhance Centre-State accountability in managing Tiger Reserves.
    • Provide parliamentary oversight.
    • Address livelihood concerns of local communities.
    Powers and Functions • Approve state-prepared tiger conservation plans.
    • Prevent unsustainable land use in Tiger Reserves.
    • Set standards for tourism and tiger conservation guidelines.
    • Conduct tiger censuses (via M-STrIPES app).
    • Support biodiversity conservation through eco-development and people’s participation.
    Key Initiative • Project Tiger, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for in-situ conservation of tigers, launched on April 1, 1973.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following statements:

    1. Animal Welfare Board of India is established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

    2. National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body.

    3. National Ganga River Basin Authority is chaired by the Prime Minister.

    Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d)1, 2 and 3

  • Antibiotic Pollution from the Manufacturing Process

    Why in the News?

    The World Health Organization (WHO) released its first-ever global guidance on managing antibiotic pollution from manufacturing processes.

    What is Antibiotic Pollution?

    • Antibiotic pollution refers to the contamination of natural environments, particularly water and soil, by antibiotics.
    • This pollution occurs when antibiotics are released into ecosystems through various sources, leading to the proliferation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
    • AMR happens when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics, making infections harder to treat and posing a significant threat to global health.

    How does Antibiotic Pollution occur from the Manufacturing Process?

    • Wastewater Discharge: Antibiotic plants release wastewater with residual antibiotics and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) into local water bodies, contributing to drug-resistant bacteria.
    • Improper Solid Waste Disposal: Unused antibiotics, raw materials, and by-products are often disposed of improperly, contaminating soil and groundwater.
    • Inadequate Treatment: Many facilities lack effective systems to treat pharmaceutical waste, allowing antibiotics to enter the environment.
    • Mass Balance Calculations: Inefficient systems or mismanagement can lead to unintentional antibiotic discharge during recycling and waste estimation.
    • Leaks and Spills: Accidental leaks or spills during manufacturing, transportation, or storage introduce antibiotics into ecosystems.
    • Runoff: Rainwater can carry antibiotics from waste into nearby rivers, lakes, or agricultural land, further contaminating the environment.

  • Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR)

    Why in the News?

    An elephant was rescued from a rail barricade in the Maddur range of Bandipur Tiger Reserve.

    About the Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR):

    Details
    Location Mysore and Chamarajanagar districts, Karnataka; at the tri-junction of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
    Part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    Geography “Ecological confluence” of the Western and Eastern Ghats (along with Mudumalai and Wayanad)
    History Established as Venugopala Wildlife Park in 1931; expanded as Bandipur Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1973.
    Surrounding Reserves Bordered by Nagarahole Tiger Reserve (NW), Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (S), and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (SW).
    Rivers Surrounded by River Kabini (North) and River Moyar (South).
    Climate Tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.
    Flora Dry deciduous to tropical mixed deciduous forests; includes rosewood, sandalwood, Indian laurel, and bamboo species.
    Fauna Home to the largest population of wild Asian elephants in South Asia; also includes Bengal tiger, gaur, sloth bear, dhole, and others.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats?

    (a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve

    (b) Nallamala Forest

    (c) Nagarhole National Park

    (d) Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve

  • Species in News: Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

    Why in the News?

    The Atlantic bluefin tuna, already heavily overfished, now faces a new threat from warming seas, causing it to migrate further north.

    Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus)

    Details
    Scientific Classification Family: Scombridae; Species: Thunnus thynnus.
    Common Names Northern bluefin tuna, Giant bluefin tuna (for individuals over 150 kg), formerly known as “tunny”.
    Habitat and Range Western and Eastern Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea; extinct in the Black Sea.
    Size Can weigh up to 680 kg; one of the largest Perciformes.
    Commercial Importance Highly valued in the Japanese market for sushi and sashimi; foundation of a major global fishery.
    Conservation Status Overfished; dramatic stock declines (72% in Eastern Atlantic, 82% in Western Atlantic);

    Moved to “Least Concern” by IUCN in 2021 due to some population recovery;

    Proposed for CITES Appendix I.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments

    2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.

    3. CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Chile’s Atacama Salt Flat sinking due to Lithium Mining

    Why in the News?

    • A recent study published in journal IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing has found that Chile’s Atacama salt flat (Salar de Atacama) is sinking at a rate of 1 to 2 centimetres per year due to lithium brine extraction.
      • Lithium brine extraction involves pumping salt-rich water to the surface and letting it evaporate in ponds to collect lithium.

    About Salar de Atacama  

    • The Salar de Atacama in Chile boasts the highest lithium concentration (0.15% by weight) among all brine sources worldwide.
    • Argentina boasts more than half of the world’s total lithium resources.
    • It holds the distinction of having the 2nd-largest lithium resources, the 3rd-largest lithium reserves, and the 4th-largest lithium production in the world.
    • It is a part of the Lithium Triangle comprising of Uyuni (Bolivia) and Hombre Muerto (Argentina).

    Key Findings of the Study:

    • Researchers analyzed satellite data from 2020 to 2023 to observe deformations in the Earth’s crust in the salt flat.
    • The area experiencing subsidence measures approximately 8 km north to south and 5 km east to west.
    • The study indicates that subsidence occurs because the rate of lithium brine pumping is faster than the recharge rate of aquifers, leading to the ground sinking.

    What is Lithium?

    • Lithium is an alkali metal, often referred to as ‘white gold’ due to its value and color.
    • It is a soft, silvery-white metal, and notably, it is the lightest metal on the periodic table.
    • It is typically found in various minerals like spodumene, petalite, and lepidolite, from which it is extracted and refined.
    • The leading producers of lithium are Australia, Chile, China, and Argentina.

    Effects of Lithium Mining on Environment:

    • Water Use: Lithium mining, especially from salt flats and brine pools, requires substantial water usage, which can deplete local water resources in arid areas.
    • Ecological Disruption: The extraction process can alter the chemical balance of the natural environment, affecting local flora and fauna.
    • Pollution: Mining and processing lithium can release harmful chemicals into the environment, impacting air and water quality.

    PYQ:

    [2008] Which one of the following pairs of metals constitutes the lightest metal and the heaviest metal, respectively?

    (a) Lithium and mercury

    (b) Lithium and osmium

    (c) Aluminium and osmium

    (d) Aluminium and mercury

  • Why has Malaysia tweaked its ‘Orangutan Diplomacy’?

    Why in the News?

    Malaysia, after initially introducing its version of soft power called “Orangutan Diplomacy” following China’s successful “panda diplomacy,” has now reversed its decision.

    What is Orangutan Diplomacy?

    • It is a Malaysian strategy that seeks to use orangutan conservation as a tool of soft power, inspired by China’s “panda diplomacy.”
    • It had first announced plans to gift orangutans (IUCN Status: Critically Endangered) to palm oil-buying countries.
    • It engages other countries in conservation efforts, focusing on symbolic adoptions rather than sending animals abroad.
    • Reasons behind:
      • Palm Oil Industry Criticism: Malaysia faces criticism for deforestation due to palm oil plantations, threatening orangutans.
      • Enhance Image: It aims to counter negative perceptions and showcase commitment to sustainability and position Malaysia as a leader in wildlife protection.
      • Global Cooperation: It seeks to strengthen ties with major palm oil importers like China, India, and the EU through conservation partnerships.

    Criticisms:

    • Habitat Concerns: Critics argue real conservation requires protecting habitats, not just symbolic actions.
    • Comparisons to Panda Diplomacy: Malaysia’s effort lacks the infrastructure and commitment seen in China’s panda conservation.

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to ‘palm oil’, consider the following statements :​

    1. The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia.​

    2. The palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing lipstick and perfumes.​

    3. The palm oil can be used to produce biodiesel.​

    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