General Awareness

ENVIRONMENT - December 2023

Dec 2023

Apr 04, 2026

India ranked 3rd globally in renewable energy capacity in 2025

In 2025, India emerged as the third-largest renewable energy market worldwide, marking a milestone in the country’s clean energy journey. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reports that India added about 45 GW of renewable capacity in 2025, led by solar and wind power. Total installed capacity reached approximately 250.5 GW, up from 175.9 GW in 2023. The strong growth demonstrates India’s push to expand renewables and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, supporting national climate goals and energy security.

India 3rd in global renewable capacity in 2025
Added ~45 GW in 2025
Total installed capacity ~250.5 GW
Growth driven by solar and wind
Policy support underpins expansion
Aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence

Apr 03, 2026

Snowy owl gains global protection under CMS agreement

The snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus) recently received international protection under the UN’s CMS Convention on Migratory Species. The designation underscores concerns about Arctic habitats and climate change-driven population declines. The species, known for its white plumage and wide Arctic range, faces threats from habitat disruption and prey fluctuations. Conservation groups welcome the move as a step toward coordinated protection across migratory routes. Scientists will monitor populations and coordinate cross-border initiatives to safeguard wintering grounds and breeding sites, ensuring long-term survival in changing ecological conditions.

Snowy owl protected under CMS agreement.
Arctic habitat and climate change impacts cited as threats.
Conservation requires cross-border coordination.
Monitoring and protection of breeding and wintering sites emphasized.

Apr 02, 2026

Varkala Included in UN 20 Cities Towards Zero Waste Initiative

Varkala, a coastal town in Kerala, has been selected for the inaugural 20 Cities Towards Zero Waste initiative. The programme, led by the UN Secretary‑General’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste with support from UN‑Habitat and UNEP, recognises cities adopting innovative waste‑reduction strategies and circular economy models. The initiative aims to showcase leadership in urban waste management and encourage knowledge sharing to accelerate zero‑waste practices globally. It emphasises resource efficiency, sustainable urban systems, and collaboration among cities. The recognition highlights India’s growing emphasis on sustainable development and municipal stewardship amid rapid urbanisation.

Varkala named in the UN’s 20 Cities Towards Zero Waste initiative.
Initiative led by UN SG’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste; supported by UNEP and UN‑Habitat.
Aims to promote waste reduction, resource efficiency, and circular economy models.
Seeks global knowledge sharing among participating cities.
Highlights India’s focus on sustainable urban development.

Mar 29, 2026

Amrabad Tiger Reserve relocation plan balances conservation with tribal welfare

Telangana government announces rehabilitation and relocation of tribal families residing inside the Amrabad Tiger Reserve. The plan seeks to balance wildlife conservation with socio-economic development for indigenous communities. Officials emphasise reducing human-wildlife conflicts while improving living standards and livelihoods. Amrabad Tiger Reserve lies in the Nallamala hills of Telangana and forms a key part of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve landscape. The relocation is part of a broader ecosystem management strategy that incorporates tribal welfare alongside biodiversity protection, aiming to maintain ecological integrity of the reserve while supporting sustainable community life.

Telangana begins rehabilitation of tribal families in Amrabad Tiger Reserve.
Plan links biodiversity conservation with tribal welfare and livelihoods.
Amrabad is in the Nallamala hills within the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam corridor.
Efforts focus on reducing human-wildlife conflict.
Relocation is part of integrated protected-area management.

Mar 27, 2026

Loni overtakes Delhi as world's most polluted city in IQAir report

A global air quality study by IQAir ranks Loni, near Ghaziabad, as the world's most polluted city in the latest annual report. Loni recorded an annual PM2.5 concentration of 112.5 µg/m³, around 22 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended limit. The finding underscores a growing pollution crisis in India’s National Capital Region and highlights ongoing health risks for residents. Experts call for urgent policy action, stronger emissions controls, and expanded monitoring. PM2.5 particles are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

IQAir World Air Quality Report lists Loni as the most polluted city globally.
Loni PM2.5 annual average: 112.5 µg/m³; ~22x WHO guideline.
Delhi-NCR faces ongoing severe air pollution challenges.
Health risks include respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Call for stronger policy action and better monitoring.

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