💥Mains Ready By December. Smash Mains & Smash PYQ Admissions Open
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Subject: Environment

  • Earthquake and Tsunami strikes Central Japan

    japan

    Central Idea

    • On January 1, 2024, a 7.5-magnitude earthquake hit Ishikawa prefecture in Japan, triggering tsunami waves over a meter high.

    Japan’s Geographical Vulnerability

    • Japan’s geographical vulnerability, particularly concerning plate tectonics, is a critical aspect of its environmental and disaster management challenges.
    • The country’s location at the convergence of several major tectonic plates makes it highly susceptible to seismic activities.

    Here’s a detailed look at how plate tectonics contribute to Japan’s geographical vulnerability:

    [1] Convergent Plate Boundaries:

    • Pacific Ring of Fire: Japan is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area with a high level of seismic activity due to the presence of numerous tectonic plate boundaries.
    • Plates Involved: The primary tectonic plates interacting near Japan are the Pacific Plate, the Philippine Sea Plate, the Eurasian Plate, and the North American Plate.
    • Subduction Zones: The Pacific and Philippine Sea plates are subducting beneath the Eurasian and North American plates. This subduction process is a significant source of seismic activity, including powerful earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

    [2] Earthquake Activity:

    • Frequent Earthquakes: The movement of these plates results in frequent earthquakes. Japan experiences thousands of tremors annually, ranging from minor to catastrophic.
    • Major Earthquakes: Historical events like the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake demonstrate the potential for massive destruction and loss of life due to Japan’s tectonic setting.

    [3] Tsunami Risk:

    • Generation of Tsunamis: Earthquakes occurring under the sea or along the coast can displace large volumes of water, leading to tsunamis. The 2011 tsunami, triggered by a massive undersea earthquake, caused widespread devastation and the Fukushima nuclear disaster.
    • Coastal Impact: Japan’s extensive coastline makes it particularly vulnerable to tsunamis, which can arrive within minutes of an undersea earthquake, leaving little time for evacuation.

    [4] Volcanic Activity:

    • Volcanic Eruptions: The subduction of the Pacific and Philippine Sea plates not only causes earthquakes but also contributes to significant volcanic activity. Magma generated by the melting of the subducted plate rises to the surface, leading to volcanic eruptions.
    • Active Volcanoes: Japan has over 100 active volcanoes, a direct result of its tectonic setting. Eruptions pose risks to nearby populations and can disrupt air travel and local economies.

    [5] Geological Complexity:

    • Intersecting Faults: The interaction of multiple tectonic plates creates a complex network of faults, increasing the unpredictability and variability of seismic events.
    • Diverse Seismic Phenomena: This complexity leads to a range of seismic phenomena, including deep-focus earthquakes, which occur at greater depths and can affect broader areas.

  • Floods and a ‘preventive measure’ that needs review

    Floods and a 'preventive measure' that needs review - The Hindu

    Central idea 

    Dr. Mani Sivasubramanian emphasizes the long-lasting impact of decisions made after Cyclone Michuang in Chennai, particularly regarding electricity cutoffs. The central idea revolves around the need for accountability in decision-making during crises, highlighting the delicate balance between safety measures and potential hazards for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly. The way forward involves a hierarchical approach, periodic reviews, and fixing responsibility for sub-optimal decisions.

    Key Highlights:

    • Dr. Mani Sivasubramanian, a heart surgeon, author, and social entrepreneur, discusses the long-lasting impact of decisions made after Cyclone Michuang in Chennai.
    • Emphasizes the importance of accountability for decisions with visible and hidden consequences.
    • Raises concerns about the practice of prolonged electricity cutoffs after a natural disaster, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly.

    Key Challenges:

    • Balancing the need for safety measures, such as electricity cutoffs during cyclones, with potential hazards like accidents and security concerns.
    • The complexity of decision-making during a crisis, requiring a dynamic and evolving approach.
    • Striking a balance between conservative choices and potential complications due to inaction.

    monsoon, monsoons, floods, flood evacuation, WHO, WHO India, World Health Organization, COVID-19, flood precautions, COVID appropriate behaviours

    Key Terms:

    • Decision accountability
    • Electricity cutoff
    • Vulnerable populations
    • Dynamic balance
    • Cataclysmic disaster
    • Intellectual and analytical judgment

    Key Phrases for good marks in mains:

    • “Consequences of choices should be accounted for.”
    • “Power disruption poses significant hazards, especially for the elderly.”
    • “Decision-making in a crisis is an extreme test of judgment and personal strength.”
    • “Potential cost of mistakes looms large in a decision-maker’s mind.”

    Key Quotes:

    • “There is no objectively ‘safe’ choice; it is a constantly evolving, dynamic balance.”
    • “A bureaucrat should justify and document decisions in real-time for review.”
    • “Complex decision-making should not become a contest of cheap populism.”

    Key Statements:

    • Decision-makers should justify and document choices in real-time.
    • Accountability is crucial, especially when decisions impact millions.
    • Calls for a hierarchy-based approach in decision-making during crises.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Mentions the 2015 floods in Chennai as a reference to the consequences of decision-making during natural disasters.

    Key Facts:

    • In 2021, Tamil Nadu had 13.8 crore people over the age of 60 years.
    • Chennai metropolitan area’s population is estimated to be over 12 million.

    Key Data:

    • 500,000 people in Chennai are above 60 years old, and over 50,000 are aged 80 or above.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Acknowledges the complexity of decision-making during a natural disaster.
    • Emphasizes the need for a balance between safety measures and potential hazards.
    • Advocates for accountability and periodic reviews of decisions.

    Way Forward:

    • Suggests a hierarchy-based approach with scaled levels of responsibility.
    • Proposes involvement of more than one person in major decision-making.
    • Calls for periodic reviews by an oversight team to challenge and reverse questionable choices.
    • Highlights the importance of fixing responsibility for sub-optimal decisions.

  • Understanding the Psychology and Impact of Plastic Consumption  

    plastic

    Central Idea

    • Pervasiveness of Plastic: Plastic, with its beneficial properties like durability, has become a ubiquitous part of modern life.
    • Environmental Impact: Approximately 50% of plastic is used only once before being discarded, contributing to significant environmental issues, including ocean pollution.

    Psychological Aspects of Plastic Use

    • Consumer Behavior Influence: The omnipresence of plastic shapes consumer choices and behaviors, influenced by marketing strategies, packaging design, and product aesthetics.
    • Packaging and Brand Perception: Packaging plays a crucial role in plastic use, with visual appeal and brand image significantly impacting consumer preferences.
    • Color Psychology in Packaging: The use of color in packaging design evokes specific emotions and expectations, influencing purchasing decisions.

    Convenience Factor and Limited Alternatives

    • Role of Convenience: Plastic packaging’s ability to keep products fresh and hygienic has been a key driver of its market dominance.
    • Lack of Economical Alternatives: The absence of affordable alternatives for food packaging often leaves consumers with no choice but to opt for plastic-wrapped items.

    Pro-Environmental Behavior (PEB) and Plastic Use

    • Understanding PEB: Limiting plastic use and purchase is an example of pro-environmental behavior, influenced by awareness, knowledge, and values.
    • Factors Influencing PEB: Concern about plastic, knowledge of its effects, and the perceived commitment of others to address its impact play roles in shaping PEB.

    Market Trends and Social Influences

    • Impulsive Buying and Social Media: The growth of social media and peer pressure have been linked to increased compulsive buying behaviors, often leading to increased plastic consumption.
    • Influence of Social Norms: Social norms promoting consumption have led to an increase in plastic use, despite its environmental costs.

    Stages of Behavioral Readiness in Plastic Consumption

    Five Stages of Readiness include-

    1. Pre-contemplation,
    2. Contemplation,
    3. Preparation,
    4. Action, and
    5. Maintenance.

    Role of Storytelling and Marketing in Plastic Awareness

    • Emotional Engagement: Storytelling in marketing can emotionally engage customers with the lifecycle of plastic items, enhancing environmental awareness.
    • Positive and Negative Impacts: Marketing power can influence consumer behavior both positively and negatively in the context of plastic use.
    • Objective vs. Subjective Knowledge: Understanding the specifics of an issue (objective knowledge) versus personal belief or awareness (subjective knowledge) influences behavior.
    • Barriers to Action: Lack of personal connection, gradual environmental impact, moral disengagement, and immediacy issues are barriers to taking action against plastic pollution.

    Way forward

    • Role of Education and Design: Knowledge is crucial, but behavioural change also depends on product design that encourages environmentally friendly choices.
    • Supplier and Retailer Responsibility: Minimizing packaging, using recyclable materials, and clear recycling instructions are key steps.
    • Policy Initiatives: Policies raising awareness of plastic pollution’s effects can facilitate a sustainability-focused behavioural shift.
    • Emergence of Sustainable Brands: As consumers increasingly look to brands for sustainable options, there is a growing market for environmentally conscious products.

    Conclusion

    • Critical Role of Habit Change: Altering consumer habits is essential for environmental protection, requiring a multifaceted approach involving education, policy, and market innovation.
    • Sources: Insights drawn from the Sustainability and Consumer Behaviour Report 2022 by Deloitte United Kingdom and research by Mittali Tyagi, PhD Scholar at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies.

  • Self-pollination in Field Pansy Flower  

    Field Pansy Flower

    Central Idea

    • Researchers have found that a flower species in Paris, the field pansy (Viola arvensis), is evolving rapidly, exhibiting reduced nectar production and smaller flower sizes.
    • This study aims to understand the impact of these evolutionary changes on plant-pollinator interactions.

    Changing Nature of Field Pansy

    • Decreased Nectar and Size: The wild pansy variety in Paris showed a 20% reduction in nectar production and a 10% decrease in flower size.
    • Comparative Analysis: Scientists compared current flower growth with seeds from 20-30 years ago, observing notable changes.
    • Adaptation to Pollinator Decline: The evolution towards self-pollination in field pansies is attributed to the decreasing availability of insect pollinators.
    • Experimental Design: The study employed the “resurrection ecology” method, planting seeds from the 1990s and 2000s alongside their 2021 descendants.

    Implications of Self-Pollination and Evolutionary Shifts

    • Contrast with Angiosperm Convention: The move towards self-pollination deviates from the typical reliance of angiosperms on insects for pollination.
    • Long-Term Coevolution: The traditional plant-insect relationship, involving nectar production for pollination, has evolved over 100 million years.
    • Genetic Analysis: Population genetics analysis revealed a 27% increase in selfing rates, with consistent trait shifts across studied populations.

    Concerns and Potential Consequences

    • Short-Term Benefits, Long-Term Risks: While self-pollination may offer short-term advantages, it poses long-term survival threats to plants amid environmental changes.
    • Feedback Loop Risks: Reduced nectar production could lead to further declines in pollinator populations, creating a detrimental eco-evolutionary feedback loop.
    • Network Degradation: The study highlights the degradation of plant-pollinator networks, as observed in previous research.

  • What are Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs)?

    Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs)

    Central Idea

    • Residents in the Arctic have witnessed an extraordinary atmospheric display of Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs).

    Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs)

    Details
    Formation and Location Form in the polar stratosphere at altitudes of 15,000–25,000 meters; common over Antarctica and the Arctic.
    Temperature Conditions Require extremely cold temperatures, typically below −78°C (−108°F).
    Types Type I: Composed of water and nitric acid.

    Type II: Made almost entirely of water ice.
    Role in Ozone Depletion Facilitate chemical reactions that produce chlorine and bromine compounds, leading to ozone destruction.
    Appearance Iridescent, shimmering pastel colors, leading to their nickname “nacreous” or “mother-of-pearl” clouds.
    Observation Visible during twilight, illuminated from below by the Sun.
    Research and Monitoring Studied for impact on ozone depletion and climate change; monitored via satellites and ground stations.
    Environmental Concern Linked to human-made chemicals like CFCs; subject to international regulation like the Montreal Protocol.
    Climate Change Connection Research ongoing into how climate change might affect PSCs’ frequency and distribution.
    Discovery and Study History Observed since the 19th century; their role in ozone depletion understood in the 1980s.

  • Rediscovery of Namdapha Flying Squirrel in Arunachal Pradesh

     

    Namdapha Flying Squirrel

    Central Idea

    • The Namdapha flying squirrel, missing for 42 years, has been sighted again in Arunachal Pradesh.
    • This rare species was last documented in 1981 in the Namdapha Tiger Reserve.

    Namdapha Flying Squirrel

    Details
    Species Name Namdapha Flying Squirrel (Biswamoyopterus biswasi)
    Type Arboreal, nocturnal flying squirrel
    Endemic Region Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India
    Habitat Tall Mesua ferrea jungles, often on hill slopes in the catchment area of the Dihing River, northeastern India
    First Discovery Known from a single specimen collected in Namdapha National Park in 1981
    Physical Description – Reddish, grizzled fur with white above

    – Pale grey crown, orangish patagium, white underparts
    Genus Significance Was the sole member of its genus until the discovery of other species like Biswamoyopterus laoensis (2013) and Biswamoyopterus gaoligongensis (2018)
    Conservation Status IUCN Status: Critically Endangered

    Wildlife Protection Act Status: Schedule I
    Threats Threatened by poaching and possibly habitat destruction

  • Volcanic Eruption in Iceland

    Iceland

    Central Idea

    • A volcanic eruption occurred near Iceland’s capital between Sýlingarfell and Hagafell, near the town of Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

    Iceland: ‘Land of Fire and Ice’

    • Geographical Location: Iceland is situated just south of the Arctic Circle in the North Atlantic Ocean.
    • Tectonic Setting: The country lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, marking the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
    • Unique Landscape: Iceland’s landscape features geysers, glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, and lava fields, housing 33 active volcanoes – the highest number in Europe.
    • Historical Settlement: The first human settlement in Iceland dates back to 874 by Norsemen from Scandinavia, leading to the founding of Reykjavik.

    Recent Volcanic Activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula

    • Historical Dormancy: The Reykjanes Peninsula had not experienced volcanic eruptions for 800 years until recently.
    • Recent Eruptions: The current eruption is the fourth in less than three years on the peninsula, indicating a potential new era of volcanic activity.
    • Eyjafjallajokull Eruption: The last major volcanic event in Iceland that gained global attention was the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajokull.
    • Eruption Timeline and Impact: The volcano erupted twice in March and April 2010, spreading an ash cloud across continents and disrupting air traffic on the North Atlantic route for six days – the longest disruption since World War II.

  • Outcomes of COP28: Progress and Challenges in Climate Action

    COP28

    Central Idea

    • Annual Climate Summit: The 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) was held in Dubai, under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
    • High Expectations: There were significant expectations for countries to take decisive steps in addressing the climate crisis.
    • Key Focus Areas: Discussions at COP28 revolved around mitigation, adaptation, finance, and the differing responsibilities of developed and developing nations.

    Early Developments: Loss and Damage Fund

    • COP27 Agreement Follow-up: After agreeing to create the ‘Loss and Damage’ (L&D) fund at COP27, COP28 focused on its operationalization.
    • Funding Challenges: Despite the need for substantial funding, contributions have been limited, with the U.S. pledging only $17.5 million.
    • Administration and Access Concerns: The World Bank’s role in overseeing the fund raised issues regarding access, legal autonomy, and responsiveness to emergencies.

    Emissions Reduction and Energy Transition

    • Global Stocktake Findings: The first global stocktake (GST) assessed progress towards the Paris Agreement goals.
    • Fossil Fuel Transition: A commitment was made to move away from fossil fuels in energy systems, to triple renewable and nuclear energy capacity by 2030.
    • Continued Use in Other Sectors: Fossil fuels remain in use in sectors like plastics, transport, and agriculture.
    • Transitional Fuels and Climate Justice: The acceptance of natural gas as a transitional fuel was seen as a compromise on climate justice.

    Financial Mechanisms for Climate Action

    • Developed Nations’ Responsibility: The GST framework emphasized the leading role of developed nations in climate finance.
    • Private Sector Involvement: The role of private investment in addressing financial gaps was acknowledged.
    • Green Finance Initiatives: New mechanisms, including a $3.5 billion boost to the Green Climate Fund, were established to support sustainable practices in developing countries.

    India’s Stance on Climate and Health Declaration

    • UAE Declaration on Climate and Health: This declaration, partnered with the World Health Organisation, was signed by 123 countries but not by India.
    • India’s Concerns: India refrained from signing due to potential impacts on its growing healthcare infrastructure and the need to prioritize healthcare requirements.

    Global Methane Pledge and India’s Position

    • Renewed Focus on Methane: The pledge received attention with over $1 billion in new grants for methane reduction projects.
    • India’s Non-Participation: India did not sign the pledge, focusing instead on carbon dioxide emissions and considering the livelihood implications of methane reduction in agriculture.

    Assessment of COP28: Achievements and Shortcomings

    • Positive Developments: Notable achievements included the climate and health declaration, emphasis on nature-based solutions, and commitments to sustainable food systems.
    • Contentious Issues: Disagreements persisted over fossil-fuel subsidies, the role of the World Bank in the L&D fund, and private sector engagement in climate action.
    • Mixed Outcomes: While renewable energy targets marked progress, unresolved issues regarding L&D, fossil fuel use, and transitional fuels indicated ongoing challenges.

    Conclusion

    • Balancing Act: COP28 showcased the intricate balance between ambitious climate goals and the practical realities of economic and social factors.
    • Continued Dialogue: The outcomes reflect the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration to address the multifaceted aspects of climate change and sustainable development.

  • Climate action needs an updated lexicon

     

    Cyclone 'Michaung' likely to make landfall on today; rain alert in many states | Latest News India - Hindustan Times

    Central idea 

    The article discusses the impact of shifting baseline syndrome on our perception of environmental changes, particularly in the context of unprecedented rainfall in south Tamil Nadu. It emphasizes the importance of officialese, or official vocabulary, in effectively communicating climate scenarios, addressing challenges in aligning definitions with lived experiences. The article also explores the global implications of terminological precision in climate negotiations and highlights the need for updated language to navigate evolving climate realities.

    Key Highlights:

    • South Tamil Nadu experiences unprecedented rainfall, reversing a northeast monsoon deficit to a 5% excess within 24 hours.
    • Shifting baseline syndrome distorts perceptions of environmental changes, impacting our understanding of losses and resource availability.
    • Climate change introduces a future-oriented shifting baseline, challenging language and memorialization of evolving climate scenarios.

    Key Challenges:

    • The deceptive simplicity of defining ‘devastating’ events, influenced by shifting baseline syndrome and community memory.
    • Official vocabulary and definitions, such as those for extreme weather events, may not align with lived experiences and evolving climate realities.
    • The role of officialese in communication, accountability, and global negotiations faces challenges in updating and aligning with ground realities.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Shifting baseline syndrome
    • Shared Socio-economic Pathways (SSPs)
    • Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
    • Officialese
    • Medical certificate of cause of death (MCCD)
    • Loss and damage fund

    Key Quotes and Statements:

    • “What we consider to be ‘devastating’ is deceptively simple because of the shifting baseline syndrome.”
    • “As the impacts of climate change become clearer, we confront a different kind of shifting baseline, one that stretches into the future.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Reference to unprecedented rainfall in Thoothukudi and Tiruchendur compared to Chennai’s Cyclone Michaung-induced rainfall.
    • Examples of official vocabulary limitations, like classifying both Chennai and Thoothukudi under ‘extremely heavy’ rainfall despite varying impacts.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Rainfall data: Thoothukudi recorded 361.4 mm, Tiruchendur 679 mm, and Chennai 500 mm within specific periods.
    • Impact of shifting baseline syndrome on underestimating environmental losses over time.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Discussion on the challenge of aligning lived experiences with official definitions, impacting trust in institutions.
    • The importance of updating officialese to bridge the gap between evolving climate scenarios and language used in official reports.
    • Global implications of officialese in climate negotiations, particularly related to the ‘loss and damage’ fund.

    Way Forward:

    • Advocacy for localized officialese that reflects State-level laws and community context.
    • Emphasis on the need for new official words to describe unprecedented climate events to ensure effective communication and global cooperation.
    • Acknowledgment of the human toll in defining ‘devastation,’ including challenges in medical certifications and disaster responses.

  • Fewer migratory birds in Sultanpur National Park this season

    Sultanpur National Park

    Central Idea

    • The Sultanpur National Park has observed a 20-30% decrease in the number of migratory birds this season, as reported by forest department officials.
    • Estimates show a reduction in bird numbers, with current figures ranging between 8,000 to 10,000, compared to the expected 15,000.

    About Sultanpur National Park

    • Sultanpur NP is located at Sultanpur village on Gurugram-Jhajjar highway, 15 km from Gurugram, Haryana and 50 km from Delhi.
    • It was a bird sanctuary, ideal for birding and bird lookers. Its area covers approximately 142.52 hectares.
    • Migratory birds start arriving in the park in September. Birds use the park as a resting place till the following March-April.
    • During summer and monsoon months the park is inhabited by many local bird species.
    • In April 1971, the Sultanpur Jheel inside the park (an area of 1.21 sq. km.) was accorded Sanctuary status under section 8 of the Punjab Wildlife Preservation Act of 1959.
    • The status of the park was upgraded to National Park in July 1991 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

    Significance of the NP

    • Spanning 1.42 sq km, it is recognized as a national park, wildlife sanctuary, and a Ramsar site since 2021.
    • It is one of the few NPs in the small state of Haryana.
    • Another NP in Haryana is Kalesar National Park.

    Important Fauna at the Park

    • Mammals: Blackbuck, Nilgai, Hog deer, Sambar, Leopard etc.
    • Birds: Siberian Cranes, Greater Flamingo, Demoiselle Crane etc.

    Annual Migratory Patterns

    • Typical Arrival: Migratory birds usually begin arriving in the first week of October.
    • Annual Visitation: By the end of January each year, around 22,000 birds visit Sultanpur Park. However, this year’s numbers are anticipated to be much lower.

    Possible Reasons for Reduced Migration

    • Temperature Changes: Wildlife experts suggests that milder winters in regions like Siberia, Central Asia, and Europe might be influencing migration patterns.
    • Food Availability: If migratory birds continue to find sufficient food in their native regions, they may not feel compelled to migrate.
    • Local Climate Impact: The local temperature at Sultanpur Park has not dropped significantly to align with the birds’ migratory patterns.
    • Effect of Smog: Smog and air pollution could also be contributing factors to the altered migratory behavior.