💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Subject: Environment

  • Species: Lion-Tailed Macaque

    Why in the News?

    A new study highlights that increased food provisioning and habituation to human presence endanger the lion-tailed macaque, a endangered species found only in the Western Ghats of India. Roads crossing the macaque habitats in eight key locations—Anamalai Hills, Nelliyampathy, Nilambur Ghats, Sholayar, Gavi, Sabarimala, Vallimalai Hills, and Agumbe—have facilitated frequent human-animal interaction. 

    Note: The mention of this species as a ‘critically endangered’ is a metaphor used in the newspaper. It does not represent its original IUCN Red List status.

    About Lion-tailed macaque

    Details
    • Scientific Name: Macaca silenus
    • Also known as: Lion-tailed macaque, Wanderoo, Bearded Monkey
    • Has black fur with a distinctive gray or silver mane around the face (in both sexes), often referred to as the “beard ape.”
    • Threats: Habitat loss, hunting, and wood harvesting
    • Significance: Indicator of rainforest health and an umbrella species for conserving other wildlife in its region.
    Habitat
    • Endemic to the Western Ghats in India (states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu). 
    • Primarily tropical evergreen rainforests, but they are also found in monsoon forests.
    Behavioral Features
    • Shy and Avoidant: Unlike other macaques, they tend to avoid humans when possible.
    • Arboreal and Diurnal: Spend most of their time in trees and are active during daylight.
    • Communication: Possess up to 17 vocalizations; males define territory boundaries through calls. 
    • Diet: Primarily frugivorous, but also consume leaves, stems, flowers, buds, fungi, and occasionally small animals.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule I

    (Estimated 4,200 individuals remaining)

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] In which of the following States is lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat?

    1. Tamil Nadu

    2. Kerala

    3. Karnataka

    4. Andhra Pradesh

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • Union Minister Releases India State of Forest Report, 2023

    Why in the News?

    The India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) was released by the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.

    What is the Forest Survey of India (FSI)?

    • Forest Survey of India (FSI) is an organisation under the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India Its principal mandate is to conduct survey and assessment of forest resources in the country. ​
    • It started as an organization called Pre- Investment Survey of Forest Resources (PISFR) in 1965 as FAO/UNDP/GOI Project.

    What is India’s State of Forest Report?

    • This report, published biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) since 1987, provides a detailed assessment of the country’s forest and tree resources using satellite data and field surveys.
    • The 2023 edition marks the 18th report in this series.

    What are the major highlights of the Report?

    • Total Forest and Tree Cover: India’s total forest and tree cover is 827,357 sq km, representing 25.17% of the country’s geographical area, with 715,343 sq km (21.76%) as forest cover and 112,014 sq km (3.41%) as tree cover.
    • Increase in Forest and Tree Cover: Since 2021, there has been an increase of 1,445 sq km in total forest and tree cover, including a 156 sq km rise in forest cover and a 1,289 sq km increase in tree cover.
    • Top States for Increase: The states with the largest increases in forest and tree cover are Chhattisgarh (+684 sq km), Uttar Pradesh (+559 sq km), Odisha (+559 sq km), and Rajasthan (+394 sq km).
    • States with Largest Forest Areas: The states with the most forest and tree cover are Madhya Pradesh (85,724 sq km), Arunachal Pradesh (67,083 sq km), and Maharashtra (65,383 sq km).
    • Mangrove Cover: India’s total mangrove cover is 4,992 sq km, reflecting ongoing efforts in mangrove conservation.
    • Growing Stock and Bamboo Resources: The total growing stock has increased by 262 million cubic meters, and the bamboo-bearing area has expanded by 5,227 sq km, totaling 154,670 sq km.
    • Carbon Stock and Sequestration: India’s forest carbon stock is estimated at 7,285.5 million tonnes, with an increase of 81.5 million tonnes. The country has exceeded its carbon sequestration targets under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), reaching a carbon stock of 30.43 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
    • Technological Advancements: The Forest Survey of India (FSI) has implemented advanced technology for real-time fire alerts and forest fire services, improving forest management and conservation practices.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Conservation Efforts and Management: Enhance forest management practices, focusing on sustainable forest use, biodiversity conservation, and tackling deforestation, while increasing the involvement of local communities in conservation initiatives.
    • Expand Technological Innovations and Monitoring: Continue leveraging advanced technologies for real-time monitoring of forest health, including fire alerts, and expand data-driven approaches to improve forest protection, carbon sequestration, and restoration efforts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Strengthening the roots of an agri-carbon market

    Why in the News?

    In India, current carbon credit projects by private organisations should be reviewed to ensure they are fair and work effectively.

    What are the current carbon credit projects? 

    • Collaborative Initiatives: NABARD, ICAR, and State Universities have listed five agricultural carbon credit projects in the Verra registry to promote sustainable agriculture.
    • Carbon Farming Projects: Over 50 projects targeting 1.6 million hectares aim to generate 4.7 million carbon credits annually, but none are registered, leaving farmers without financial benefits.

    Note: Verra is a carbon credit registry that manages the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), ensuring high-quality carbon credit projects and facilitating transparent trading of carbon credits.

    What are the key challenges facing agricultural carbon markets?

    • Lack of Communication and Training: A significant portion of farmers (45%) reported inadequate communication regarding carbon farming practices, and over 60% lacked training in new techniques. This gap in knowledge can hinder the effective implementation of sustainable practices necessary for generating carbon credits.
    • Exclusion of Marginalized Communities: Many existing carbon farming projects have not adequately included smallholders and marginalized communities, with women representing only 4% of participants. This lack of inclusivity limits the socioeconomic benefits that carbon markets could provide to a broader segment of the farming population.
    • Financial Incentives: A notable 28% of farmers discontinued sustainable practices by the second year due to insufficient financial incentives. The absence of timely payments for carbon credits further discourages participation and undermines project sustainability.
    • Unregistered Projects: Despite over 50 agricultural carbon farming projects being listed in the Verra registry, none have been officially registered, meaning no carbon credits have been issued and farmers have not received any financial compensation.
    • Quality Assurance: Ensuring that projects deliver reliable environmental benefits is crucial. If projects fail to produce credible carbon credits, it may lead to a loss of confidence among buyers, which would ultimately deprive farmers of income and discourage sustainable practices.

    How can farmers be incentivized to participate in carbon markets?

    • Higher Prices for Inclusive Projects: Offering premium prices for carbon credits from projects that actively include smallholders and marginalized communities can encourage broader participation and ensure equitable benefits.
    • Effective Communication and Training Programs: Establishing robust communication channels and providing regular training on sustainable agricultural practices will empower farmers to adopt new techniques confidently.
    • Guaranteed Timely Payments: Implementing a system that ensures farmers receive prompt payments for their carbon credits will enhance trust in the market and encourage ongoing participation in sustainable practices.
    • Collaboration with Research Institutions: Partnering with national and international research organizations can help identify suitable regions for carbon farming, ensuring that interventions are effective and do not compromise food security.
    • Bundling Small Farmers into Cooperatives: Creating Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) can help reduce transaction costs, improve bargaining power, and facilitate easier access to carbon markets for smallholder farmers.

    What role do technological advancements play in enhancing agri-carbon markets?

    • Improved Measurement Techniques: Advances in digital technologies such as remote sensing, satellite imagery, drones, and sensors will enhance the monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) processes essential for assessing soil carbon levels and GHG emissions accurately.
    • Data Accessibility: The increasing availability of technology will allow farmers to access real-time data on their farming practices, enabling them to make informed decisions that align with sustainable methods required for carbon credit generation.
    • Enhanced Project Implementation: Technology can streamline project management by facilitating better communication between stakeholders, tracking progress, and ensuring compliance with additionality and permanence criteria necessary for successful carbon credit projects.
    • Scalability of Projects: Digital tools can help scale successful carbon farming initiatives by providing frameworks that can be replicated across different regions, thus expanding the reach of agricultural carbon markets in India.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Inclusivity and Farmer Incentives: Promote inclusive projects that actively engage smallholders and marginalized communities by offering premium prices for carbon credits, ensuring timely payments, and bundling farmers into cooperatives for better market access.
    • Leverage Technology for Efficiency: Utilize advanced digital tools like remote sensing and real-time data systems to improve monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) processes, enhance project scalability, and ensure effective implementation of carbon credit initiatives.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth.. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • India conducts first-ever Ganges River Dolphin Tagging in Assam

    Why in the News?

    • The first-ever Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) has been tagged in Assam, marking a major achievement in wildlife conservation.

    About Ganges River Dolphin:

    Details
    • Ganga River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) – Known as the “Tiger of the Ganges,” discovered in 1801.
    • Declared National Aquatic Animal in 2009 and State Aquatic Animal of Assam.
    • The announcement was made at the first meeting of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA).
    • Habitat:  Around 90% of the species live in India, primarily in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli river systems.
    • Features: Blind, lives in freshwater, uses ultrasonic sounds to hunt, travels in small groups, and surface every 30-120 seconds for breathing.
    Importance and Threats
    • Acts as an indicator of river ecosystem health (being the apex predator).
    • Threats: Unintentional killing through fishing gear, poaching for oil, habitat destruction, pollution (industrial waste, pesticides, noise).
    Protection Status and Government Initiatives Protection Status:

    • IUCN: Endangered
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • CMS: Appendix I

    Conservation Initiatives: Project Dolphin, Vikramshila Ganges Dolphin Sanctuary (Bihar), National Ganga River Dolphin Day (October 5).

    What is Project Dolphin?

    • Launch: Announced by PM Narendra Modi on 15th August 2020.
    • Objective: Conservation of India’s riverine and oceanic dolphins.
    • Duration: 10-year initiative.
    • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.
    • Key Objectives:
      • Safeguard India’s dolphin population by mitigating threats to riverine and oceanic species.
      • Address conservation challenges while engaging stakeholders in dolphin conservation efforts.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?

    (a) Saltwater crocodile

    (b) Olive ridley turtle

    (c) Gangetic dolphin

    (d) Gharial

  • [pib] National Wildlife Health Policy

    Why in the News?

    The Central Zoo Authority has initiated the development of the National Wildlife Health Policy (NWHP) through a consultative workshop held in New Delhi.

    About the National Wildlife Health Policy (NWHP):

    Details
    • An initiative launched by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to improve wildlife health and control zoonotic diseases.
      • CZA, established in 1992 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, is a statutory autonomous body under the MoEFCCC.
    • Part of the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-31) and follows the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Prevent and Control Zoonotic Diseases: Strengthen monitoring and control of diseases.
    • Improve Disease Surveillance: Develop systems for early epidemic detection.
    • Promote One Health Principles: Integrate human, animal, and environmental health.
    • Community Advocacy: Increase awareness on wildlife health and conservation.
    Programs/Initiatives Under the Policy
    • Wildlife Health Management Unit (WHMU): A dedicated unit to implement wildlife health programs.
    • Disease Surveillance and Early Detection: Early detection of diseases, especially in protected areas.
    • Biosecurity Protocols: Strengthen measures to minimize disease risks.
    • Epidemic Preparedness and Response: Response strategies for wildlife disease outbreaks.
    • One Health Approach Integration: Coordination between health sectors for better management.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Wildlife Health Management Unit (WHMU) (proposed) to oversee wildlife health programs.
    • Collaboration Across Agencies: Coordination with MoEF&CC, Wildlife Institutes, and state wildlife authorities.
    • Surveillance and Monitoring: Monitor and track wildlife diseases, with research support from Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI).
    • Capacity Building: Training programs for wildlife health professionals.
    • Funding and Resources: Significant resources for surveillance, research, and capacity building.

  • IPBES Report, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The 11th plenary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) took place in Namibia to discuss key scientific findings and evidence addressing the global biodiversity crisis.

    About IPBES

    • IPBES aims to improve the interface between science and policy on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
    • Membership: Comprises over 130 member governments.
    • Purpose: Provides scientific assessments to guide governments, the private sector, and civil society in decision-making on biodiversity and ecosystems.
    • Establishment:
      • Formally established in April 2012 when 90 countries signed its founding statement.
      • Originated from a 2010 UN General Assembly resolution urging the UN Environment Programme to convene a meeting for its formation.
    • Structural Mandate:
      • Led by a Plenary (main decision-making body) with representatives from member states.
      • Operates on a consensus principle, meeting annually to decide on work programs, budgets, and reports.
    • Key Functions:
      • Assessments: Develop global and regional assessments on biodiversity themes.
      • Policy Support: Provide tools and methodologies for policymakers.
      • Capacity Building: Enhance knowledge and capabilities among members.
      • Outreach: Ensure effective communication and impact.
    • Notable Achievements:
      • 2019: Released the Global Assessment Report on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
      • 2020: Preliminary report on international cooperation to reduce pandemic risks.
      • 2021: Co-sponsored a biodiversity and climate change workshop report with IPCC.
      • 2022: Awarded the Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity, shared with IPCC.
    • Unique Contributions:
      • Introduced the term “Nature’s Contributions to People” (NCPs) as an alternative to ecosystem services.
      • Compiles knowledge from diverse sources, including scientific literature, indigenous knowledge, and local expertise.

    Key Highlights on the Global Environment:

    • Biodiversity Loss: 1 million species face extinction due to habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution.
    • Climate Change Impact: Global warming is significantly threatening ecosystems and species.
    • Deforestation: Large-scale deforestation disrupts ecosystems and contributes to carbon emissions.
    • Water Scarcity: Freshwater ecosystems are under threat from pollution and over-extraction.
    • Ecosystem Services: Decline in vital services like clean air, water, and food.
    • Global Cooperation: Urgent need for global action to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.
    • Biodiversity and Health: Emphasis on the One Health approach to link human, animal, and environmental health.

    Key Highlights on the Asian Region:

    • Biodiversity: Asia hosts half the world’s biodiversity but faces major threats from habitat loss and climate change.
    • Pollution and Urbanization: Rapid urbanization is increasing pollution, affecting health and the environment.
    • Climate Change: Vulnerable to floods, droughts, and rising sea levels impacting agriculture and settlements.
    • Forest Loss: Deforestation, especially in Indonesia, India, and Malaysia, threatens ecosystems.
    • Marine Biodiversity: Marine life is under pressure from overfishing and pollution.
    • Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting sustainable farming to reduce environmental impact.
    • Protected Areas: Despite progress, conservation management remains a challenge.

    PYQ:

    [2012] The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment describes the following major categories of ecosystem services-provisioning, supporting, regulating, preserving and cultural. Which one of the following is supporting service?

    (a) Production of food and water

    (b) Control of climate and disease

    (c) Nutrient cycling and crop pollination

    (d) Maintenance of diversity

  • Arctic Tundra is emitting more Carbon than it absorbs: NOAA

    Why in the News?

    • The Arctic Tundra, a frozen treeless biome, has traditionally served as a carbon sink, storing vast amounts of carbon for thousands of years.
      • However, recent changes in this ecosystem are turning it into a source of greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

    What is Arctic Tundra?

    • Arctic Tundra is cold, treeless biome located in the northernmost regions of Earth, primarily within the Arctic Circle.
    • Climate:
      • Experiences long, harsh winters and short, cool summers.
      • Temperatures range from -28°C in winter to 3°C in summer.
      • Ground is permanently frozen, restricting plant root growth and shaping the ecosystem.
      • Experiences 24-hour daylight in summer and long polar nights in winter.
    • Biodiversity and Vegetation:
      • Limited to low-growing vegetation like mosses, lichens, grasses, and small shrubs, adapted to short growing seasons.
      • Hosts animals like Arctic foxes, polar bears, caribou, and migratory birds, though overall biodiversity is low.
    • Adaptations:
      • Animals: Thick fur and fat layers in species like polar bears to survive extreme cold.
      • Plants: Shallow roots for quick nutrient absorption during short summers.

    How does the Arctic Tundra store Carbon?

    • The Arctic tundra stores carbon primarily through a process where plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere via photosynthesis.
      • This carbon gets trapped in the soil and organic matter (plants and animals) that accumulate over time.
    • The cold Arctic climate slows the decomposition of plant and animal remains, meaning that organic materials, including carbon, remain locked in the permafrost.
      • This permafrost acts as a natural storage system, preventing CO2 from being released back into the atmosphere.
    • Scientists estimate that the Arctic tundra holds about 1.6 trillion metric tonnes of carbon, which is roughly double the amount of carbon in the Earth’s atmosphere.

    Why is the Arctic Tundra emitting more carbon than absorbing it?

    • Rising temperatures in the Arctic are causing the permafrost to thaw at an accelerated rate.
      • When permafrost thaws, microbes in the soil become active, breaking down the organic material trapped in the frozen ground, which results in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), two potent greenhouse gases.
      • The Arctic has been warming at a rate four times faster than the global average.
      • 2024 was the second-warmest year on record for the region, contributing significantly to the thawing of the permafrost.
    • Wildfires in the Arctic have become more frequent and intense, further accelerating the thawing of permafrost. Wildfire smoke also contributes to the release of greenhouse gases.
    • Between 2001 and 2020, the combination of rising temperatures and increased wildfires led to the Arctic tundra releasing more carbon than it absorbed, marking a significant shift in its role from a carbon sink to a carbon emitter.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Climate is extreme, rainfall is scanty and the people used to be nomadic herders. The above statement best describes which of the following regions?

    (a) African Savanna

    (b) Central Asian Steppe

    (c) North American Prairie

    (d) Siberian Tundra

  • Green hydrogen and the financing challenge

    Why in the news?

    India aims to produce 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030 to lead in the sector and reduce emissions, but the high costs of financing may hinder this goal.

    Hydrogen fuel comes in three types:

    • Grey hydrogen (produced from natural gas), Blue hydrogen (Grey hydrogen with carbon capture), and Green hydrogen (produced using renewable energy through electrolysis, with no emissions).

    What are the key financial barriers to scaling green hydrogen production?

    • High Production Costs: The cost of producing green hydrogen is significantly higher ($5.30-$6.70 per kg) compared to traditional grey/blue hydrogen ($1.9-$2.4 per kg). This price disparity makes green hydrogen economically uncompetitive and deters investment and offtake.
    • High Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC): In emerging markets like India, higher perceived risks increase borrowing costs. This results in a high WACC, which heavily influences the Levelised Cost of Electricity (LCOE) and the overall cost of green hydrogen production.
    • High Electrolyzer Costs: The current costs of electrolyzers, ranging from $500-1,400/kW for alkaline and $1,100-1,800/kW for proton exchange membrane systems, further strain the financial viability of green hydrogen projects.
    • Scaling Challenge: Green hydrogen production costs can only decrease with scaled production, but scaling up requires financial viability. The market faces a catch-22 situation: without economies of scale, production remains expensive, and without lowering costs, scaling is unfeasible.

    How can innovative financing mechanisms be developed?

    • Blended Finance Models: Combining public and private capital can help lower risks and make investments in green hydrogen more attractive. Government-backed financial instruments or concessional loans can reduce borrowing costs, lowering WACC.
    • Green Bonds and Climate Financing: The issuance of green bonds to raise capital for renewable energy projects can provide long-term funding at lower costs. These bonds can appeal to investors with an interest in sustainable investments.
    • Private-Public Partnerships (PPP): Collaborations between government and private sectors can help mitigate risks and ensure the financing of green hydrogen projects. To attract private investors, governments can provide financial support through incentives, subsidies, or tax breaks.
    • Carbon Credits and Offtake Agreements: Green hydrogen projects could leverage carbon credits or long-term offtake agreements to secure steady revenue streams, which would increase investor confidence and help finance production scale-up.

    What role do policy frameworks play in facilitating investment in green hydrogen?

    • Incentives and Subsidies: Government policies offering subsidies, tax incentives, or feed-in tariffs can help offset the high initial costs of green hydrogen production and encourage private investment.
    • Long-Term Policy Clarity: Clear, stable, and long-term policy frameworks provide certainty to investors, reducing perceived risks and lowering the cost of capital. Such policies could include long-term targets for green hydrogen production, financing support, and infrastructure development.
    • Regulatory Support for Innovation: Governments can encourage innovation by providing regulatory frameworks that support new technologies, such as electrolyzers and advanced hydrogen storage solutions, ensuring the rapid scaling of green hydrogen.
    • Market Creation and Demand-Driven Initiatives: Policies that create demand for green hydrogen, such as mandatory usage targets for industries like steel, transportation, or chemicals, can drive off-take agreements and ensure market stability.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (2021)

  • Olive Ridley Turtles

    Why in the News?

    Carcasses of Olive Ridley turtles have been found along the Visakhapatnam coast during their breeding season, raising concerns about their conservation.

    About Olive Ridley Turtles:

    Details
    • Olive Ridley turtles are sea turtles known for their olive-colored carapace.
    • They are carnivorous, primarily feeding on jellyfish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
    • Unique mass nesting behavior (Arribada), where thousands of females lay eggs in synchronized waves on the same beach.
    Their Habitat and Protection Status
    • Found in the warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.
    • Largest rookery (breeding colony) is at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Odisha, India.
    • Other major nesting sites include Devi River mouth (discovered in 1981) and Rushikulya river mouth (discovered in 1994).
    • Protection Status:
    1. IUCN Status: Vulnerable
    2. CITES: Appendix I (No international trade)
    3. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (Highest level of protection)
    Conservation Efforts
    • Project Olivia by Indian Coastguard to protect the Olive Ridley turtles, especially after the Gahirmatha rookery recognition.
    • Legal protections and environmental regulations safeguard nesting sites and prevent poaching.
    • Olive Ridley Protection Program ensures the safety of nests and hatchlings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?

    (a) Saltwater crocodile

    (b) Olive ridley turtle

    (c) Gangetic dolphin

    (d) Gharial

  • [pib] Import of Hazardous Waste

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has provided details of the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016 to the Lok Sabha.

    About Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016:

    Details Notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

    Objective: Ensure safe storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous wastes, minimizing harm to the environment and human health.
    Features of the Rules Import Regulations:

    1. Import of hazardous waste listed in Part A of Schedule III is permitted for recycling, recovery, reuse, and co-processing.
    2. Import for disposal is strictly prohibited in India.
    3. Import is allowed only for actual users (industries) with permission from MoEF&CC and a license from DGFT.

    Illegal Imports:

    1. Any import of hazardous waste without prior permission from MoEF&CC is illegal.
    2. Legal action can be taken under the Indian Ports Act, 1908 or the Customs Act, 1962.
    3. Ports and Customs Authorities are responsible for monitoring and taking action against illegal imports.

    Import/Export of Waste:

    1. No hazardous waste can be imported for final disposal into India.
    2. The rules specify procedures for importing and exporting hazardous waste.
    3. Exemptions are made for the export of silk waste and defective electrical/electronic components.

    Wastes Prohibited for Import:

    1. Waste edible fats and oils (animal/vegetable origin)
    2. Household waste
    3. Critical care medical equipment
    4. Tyres for direct re-use
    5. Plastic waste, including PET bottles
    6. Electrical and electronic scrap
    7. Other chemical wastes, especially in solvent form

    Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities:

    1. The rules provide clear directions on how treatment, storage, and disposal facilities should be established.
    2. SPCBs must approve layout of these facilities.
    Powers and Functions of State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)
    • Duties Assigned to State Governments: Allocate space for recycling and pre-processing of hazardous waste, and implement skill development activities for worker safety.
    • Annual Reports: State governments must submit reports on hazardous waste management to MoEFCC. SPCBs must submit an annual inventory of hazardous waste management activities to ensure compliance
    • Monitoring and Compliance: SPCBs monitor adherence to rules and take action against violations.
    • Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities: SPCBs approve and monitor facilities for hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] As per the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in India, which one of the following statements is correct? 

    (a) Waste generator has to segregate waste into five categories.

    (b) The Rules are applicable to notified urban local bodies, notified towns and all industrial townships only.

    (c) The Rules provide for exact and elaborate criteria for the identification of sites for landfills and waste processing facilities.

    (d) It is mandatory on the part of the waste generator that the waste generated in one district cannot be moved to another district.