General Awareness

ENVIRONMENT - August 2019

Aug 2019

Oct 10, 2024

Wildlife Population Declined by 73% in 50 Years: WWF Report

The World Wildlife Fund's (WWF) biennial living planet report, monitored global wildlife populations declined by 73 per cent in the last 50 years, owing to habitat loss, degradation, impacts of climate change and invasive species.
In India, the decline of three vulture species – white-rumped vulture, Indian vulture, and slender-billed vulture, has been alarming, WWF said.
The report's conclusions were based on tracking 35,000 population trends and 5,495 species of amphibians, mammals, birds, fish and reptiles. To be sure, the decline is not in terms of the number of populations lost but the average changes in monitored animal populations around the world. Among the different ecosystems, the freshwater populations saw the highest decline with their populations falling by 85 per cent, followed by terrestrial populations, which saw a 69 per cent decline and a 56 per cent decline in marine populations, according to the report. Habitat loss, over exploitation, climate change, pollution, invasive species, diseases were the dominant drivers of the decline of wildlife. Habitat loss was driven by unsustainable agriculture, fragmentation, logging, mining, to name a few causes.

Oct 07, 2024

India's Maritime Decarbonisation Conference Concludes

The Conference on Maritime Decarbonisation in India, co-hosted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Asian Development Bank, concluded in New Delhi. The event brought together over two hundred delegates to discuss the future of green shipping and port operations. These include leaders from key Indian ports, central and state government officials, industry stakeholders, international experts, and academia.
Secretary, of the Ministry of Ports, Shopping and Waterways, T. K. Ramachandran pointed out that through initiatives like the Harit Sagar Green Port Guidelines and Harit Nauka Green Transition Guidelines, the Ministry is setting a global example in the adoption of green energy, sustainable port operations, and cleaner shipping practices.
The conference underscored India's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and highlighted strategic initiatives to decarbonise its maritime sector, aligned with the Maritime India Vision 2030. Discussions covered a range of critical themes, including green port infrastructure, clean harbour craft, the use of zero-carbon fuels, emissions reduction strategies, and the electrification of inland waterways.

Oct 03, 2024

Rare Honey Badger Spotted for First Time in Uttarakhand

A honey badger, also known as Ratel, was captured on camera for the first time in the Terai East Forest Division of Uttarakhand. This rare species is listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, which offers it the highest level of protection.
Researchers note that there is limited information about the current population of honey badgers in Uttarakhand.
Previously, honey badgers were spotted in locations such as the Chilika Lagoon and Simlipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha, Bannerghatta National Park and Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka, Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra, the Eastern Ghats and West Bengal.
A study highlights the challenges of conservation efforts for honey badgers, as their population status in India is poorly documented, and their behaviour and social structure remain largely unexplored. These animals are known for their solitary nature.

Oct 01, 2024

India Signs High Seas Treaty to Protect Marine Life

India officially signed the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, known as the High Seas Treaty, which aims to promote the conservation of marine genetic resources and ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the significance of the treaty, stating that it represents a crucial step towards maintaining the health and resilience of oceans.
This international accord, established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), targets the high seas, which encompass nearly two-thirds (64%) of the ocean and are home to some of the most ecologically vital yet critically threatened areas on Earth.
The BBNJ Agreement seeks to address urgent concerns regarding the long-term protection of marine biodiversity in high seas. It establishes precise mechanisms for sustainable use of marine biological diversity through international cooperation. The treaty prohibits parties from claiming or exercising sovereign rights over marine resources from the high seas, thereby ensuring fair sharing of benefits.

Sep 30, 2024

Oxygen Bird Park Inaugurated By Nitin Gadkari

Union Minister for Road, Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated the Oxygen Bird Park (Amrit Mahotsav Park) on the Nagpur-Hyderabad National highway 44 in Nagpur, in state of Maharashtra.
The Oxygen Bird Park covers a total area of 8.23 hectares, including 2.5 hectares dedicated to social forestry.
It is initiated by National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).
It represents a holistic initiative, seamlessly combining environmental conservation, recreational amenities, and the creation of sustainable green spaces.
A key aspect of the park is its focus on sustainability, showcased through its 'Oxygen Park' feature.
Fast-growing, oxygen-producing trees are planted to help reduce air pollution and promote a healthier environment.
Beyond its ecological role the project emphasises the creation of a welcoming environment to attract bird populations.

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