General Awareness

ENVIRONMENT - March 2018

Mar 2018

Sep 18, 2026

Punjab, Haryana farmers receive India's first soil-carbon payments

Punjab and Haryana became the first Indian states to disburse soil-carbon payments to farmers. More than 2,500 smallholders were covered, with over ₹2.9 crore released for adopting regenerative practices. The initial payments were made at Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana. These transfers are part of the Aadi farmer carbon programme, launched by Grow Indigo in 2019 with technical guidance from ICAR. The scheme creates carbon credits based on verified improvements in farming methods and rewards farmers with an additional income stream. Officials say the approach links field-level practices with climate benefits, encouraging soil health and long-term productivity across northern India.

Punjab and Haryana first to receive soil-carbon payments in India.
Over 2,500 smallholder farmers covered; ₹2.9 crore disbursed.
Payments issued at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana.
Part of the Aadi farmer carbon programme by Grow Indigo with ICAR guidance.
Scheme ties verified farming improvements to carbon credits and income.

World Ozone Day 2026 observed with Kigali Amendment milestone

World Ozone Day 2026 was observed on 16 September with the theme Global action for a cooler planet. The day marks the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. This year also marks the tenth anniversary of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which aims to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in cooling. Officials stressed international cooperation, sustainable cooling and energy efficiency as key goals. The observance highlighted safer technologies and practices to protect the ozone layer while supporting climate goals. Countries reviewed progress on ozone protection and discussed steps to accelerate transitions to environmentally safer alternatives.

Observed on 16 September 2026; theme Global action for a cooler planet.
Commemorates the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.
Marks 10th anniversary of Kigali Amendment to Montreal Protocol.
Kigali Amendment aims to phase down HFCs in cooling.
Emphasizes cooperation, sustainable cooling and safer technology.

Bharat Vann green initiative launched in Delhi

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the 'Bharat Vann' green initiative at Lodhi Colony Park in central New Delhi. The project focuses on urban ecological restoration and increasing Delhi’s green cover. It aims to create a dense urban forest using indigenous plant species suited to Delhi’s environment. The initiative was undertaken in collaboration with the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). Officials say the effort will improve air quality, provide shade and create habitats for urban wildlife. The project forms part of broader government work to expand green spaces in Indian cities and promote sustainable living through community involvement. The event was described as a model for other states.

Inaugurated by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at Lodhi Colony Park.
Focus on urban ecological restoration and green cover in Delhi.
Aims to create a dense urban forest with indigenous species.
Collaboration with New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).
Intended to improve air quality and urban biodiversity.

Sep 16, 2026

Etna eruption causes flight suspensions at Catania airport in Sicily

Flights were suspended at Catania International Airport due to volcanic ash from Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano. The red aviation alert was issued as ash emissions prompted temporary disruptions. Arrivals and departures were expected to remain halted through Tuesday evening. Etna’s activity has repeatedly affected Sicilian air travel, with the volcano located about 40 km from the airport. While the disruption continues, Etna’s eruptions attract many onlookers, and authorities monitor the situation closely for updated flight schedules and potential airport-wide operations changes.

Catania Airport grounded by volcanic ash from Mount Etna
Red aviation alert; flights suspended through Tuesday evening
Etna stands 3,324 metres tall and is near the airport
Disruptions affect major travel and tourism in Sicily
Authorities monitor ash dispersion and schedule updates

World Circular Economy Forum 2026 opens in Gandhinagar under ‘Circular Economy: Transition for ...

India hosts the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 in Gandhinagar from 15 to 18 September, the first time in South Asia. The four-day event gathers policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers from around the world to advance practical circular economy solutions. More than 3,600 stakeholders from 62 countries attend, with 135 national and international exhibitors. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel highlighted India’s leadership through Mission LiFE and recycling practices, while Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav described circularity as rooted in Indian culture. The forum seeks cross-border collaboration and practical strategies for resource efficiency and waste reduction.

WCEF 2026 held in Gandhinagar, 15–18 September 2026
Over 3,600 participants from 62 countries; 135 exhibitors
Theme: Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity
India highlights Mission LiFE and reuse traditions
Emphasis on international cooperation and practical circular solutions

Sep 15, 2026

Global Flyways Summit 2026 in Nairobi highlights migratory bird concerns

The Global Flyways Summit 2026 was held in Nairobi, Kenya, organized by BirdLife International as part of its quadrennial Partnership Meeting. The gathering brought together conservation organisations, government agencies, and stakeholders to strengthen migratory-bird protection and habitat management. The latest report highlighted concerns over declining migratory bird populations, with many species facing habitat loss and climate pressures. Participants discussed policy coordination, habitat restoration, surveillance against illegal hunting, and cross-border research collaboration. The summit stressed integrated conservation strategies and greater funding for flyway networks, with India emphasising its shared responsibility to protect migratory birds along the South Asian flyway.

Summit held in Nairobi, Kenya (Global Flyways Summit 2026).
Focus on migratory-bird protection and habitat management.
Highlights declines in migratory bird populations.
Discussed policy coordination, restoration, and anti-poaching.
India emphasised shared responsibility along the South Asian flyway.

World’s longest steel slag road opens in Raigarh; Guinness record

India set a Guinness World Record for building the world’s longest steel slag road in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh. The 1.85-kilometre stretch uses processed steel slag, a by-product of steel manufacturing, as an alternative construction material. The project demonstrates the potential of industrial by-products to create sustainable infrastructure and reduce extraction of natural aggregates. Experts say the road showcases a model for circular economy in road construction and could cut maintenance costs over time. Local authorities emphasise that steel slag recycling lowers emissions from material transport and reduces landfill waste. The project signals a broader push to use sustainable materials in public works.

Guinness World Record for longest steel slag road (1.85 km).
Uses steel slag as construction material.
Promotes circular economy in road building.
Aims to reduce raw-material extraction and emissions.

Tata Steel launches India's first Coke Oven Gas Injection Project

Tata Steel Limited commissioned India’s first Coke Oven Gas (COG) Injection Project at the Meramandali Steel Plant in Odisha. The initiative, launched at Blast Furnace 1, marks a major step toward reducing fossil fuel consumption in steelmaking and lowering carbon emissions. Coke oven gas is injected into the blast furnace as a supplementary fuel, reducing reliance on coal and improving energy efficiency. The project aligns with Tata Steel’s Net Zero by 2045 roadmap and contributes to national decarbonisation efforts in heavy industry. Industry experts expect broader deployment of COG injection across facilities as part of cleaner production goals.

First COG Injection Project at Meramandali, Odisha.
COG used as supplementary fuel in blast furnace.
Reduces coal use and lowers carbon emissions.
Aligns with Net Zero by 2045 goal.
Potential for wider adoption in the steel sector.

Sep 11, 2026

Five orangutans rescued from Rankotha Forest, Odisha, moved to Nandankanan

The Odisha Forest Department rescued five young orangutans from Rankotha Protected Reserve Forest in Balasore district in September 2026. The rescued animals include three males and two females, who were moved to Nandankanan Zoological Park for care and rehabilitation. Orangutans are critically endangered great apes native to the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra; there is no wild orangutan population in India. Identifying them as non-native ensures appropriate welfare and quarantine protocols. Authorities coordinate with wildlife experts to assess veterinary needs and potential reintroduction options. The incident highlights vigilance against illegal wildlife trafficking and emphasizes rescue and rehabilitation for endangered species in India.

Five orangutans rescued from Rankotha Forest, Balasore, Odisha.
Rescued orangutans moved to Nandankanan Zoological Park for care.
Orangutans are non-native to India with no wild population here.
Welfare and quarantine protocols are being followed.
Incident underscores anti-trafficking and conservation efforts.

Sep 10, 2026

Crisis in Indian agriculture: Crisil flags deficient monsoon risks to rabi

Crises to India’s crop outlook were flagged by Crisil on 9 September 2026, warning that deficient monsoon rains in late monsoon season and weak rainfall in September risk impacting the upcoming rabi crop cycle. Analysts cited reduced reservoir levels, groundwater stress, and potential price volatility for staples. While credit markets assess agricultural risk, farm incomes and rural demand could be affected. The government and lenders were urged to implement contingency plans, improve irrigation efficiency, and support farmers through targeted credit and input subsidies to mitigate impact on food supply and rural livelihoods.

Crisil warns of deficient monsoon and September rainfall impacting rabi crops.
Risks include lower reservoir levels and groundwater stress.
Possible effects on prices, farm incomes, and rural demand.
Calls for contingency plans, irrigation improvements, targeted farmer support.
Implications for food security and agricultural credit policies.

Anak Krakatau erupts; ash plume disrupts travel

Mount Anak Krakatau, among Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, erupted violently in September 2026. The eruption sent ash plumes reaching up to 50,000 feet, prompting travel disruptions across Indonesia and prompting aviation advisories. The volcano lies in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra and remains under close observation by Indonesian authorities. Scientists warned of possible secondary eruptions and urged caution for air travel in affected corridors. The incident underscores ongoing volcanic activity in the region and the importance of disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and effective communication with international aviation communities.

Violent eruption of Anak Krakatau in Sept 2026.
Ash plumes reportedly reach 50,000 feet; travel disruptions reported.
Located in the Sunda Strait; under close monitoring.
Possible secondary eruptions warned by scientists.
Highlights need for disaster preparedness and warning systems.

India–Japan forestry talks held in Bengaluru

The 7th Meeting of the India–Japan Joint Working Group on Cooperation in the Forestry Sector took place in Bengaluru, Karnataka, in September 2026. Officials from both countries discussed Trees Outside Forests, forest genetics, and forest stack policy. The Indian delegation was led by Ramesh Kumar Pandey; the Japanese delegation was headed by Shimizu Kotaro. Participants underscored sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and joint research initiatives for climate resilience. The talks reinforced bilateral cooperation in forest-related areas and laid groundwork for follow‑up projects, including knowledge‑exchange programs and joint field demonstrations.

7th India–Japan forestry JWG meeting held in Bengaluru, Sept 2026.
Topics: Trees Outside Forests, forest genetics, and forest stack policy.
Indian lead: Ramesh Kumar Pandey; Japanese lead: Shimizu Kotaro.
Emphasis on biodiversity, climate resilience, and joint research.
Agreed to follow up with exchanges and demonstrations.

Belgium to build world’s first artificial energy island

Belgium announced plans to develop the world’s first artificial energy island, Princess Elisabeth Island, in the North Sea. The offshore installation will function as an electricity hub, collecting power from nearby offshore wind farms and transmitting it to the Belgian mainland. Developed by Elia, Belgium’s transmission system operator, the island will also support cross‑border connections with the United Kingdom and Denmark. The project aims to enhance energy security and grid integration for renewable generation while supporting future expansion and regional energy cooperation with neighbouring countries.

First of its kind artificial energy island in the North Sea.
Island will collect wind power and transmit to Belgium; cross‑border links planned.
Developed by Elia, Belgium’s grid operator.
Seeks to improve energy security and renewable integration.
Part of broader European offshore wind strategy.

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