TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recent studies, particularly from Oregon State University, highlighted the detrimental effects of climate change on aardvarks.

EXPLANATION:

• The warming climate has led to aridification in their landscapes, significantly impacting their survival chances.
• Aridification involves the drying and heating of the aardvarks’ habitats, causing disruptions in their distribution and movement patterns across the landscape.

Aardvarks

• Aardvarks, the nocturnal burrowing mammals found across much of sub-Saharan Africa, play a crucial role in the region’s ecosystem.
• Their habitat primarily includes savannah and semi-arid areas, where they contribute significantly by controlling termite populations that can otherwise damage human structures.
• Additionally, their burrows serve as essential habitats for various other species.

Research Insights: Understanding Aardvark Population Dynamics

• The study published in the journal Diversity and Distributions conducted by researchers at Oregon State University delved into a detailed examination of aardvark populations across various regions in sub-Saharan Africa.
• The research aimed to understand how the changing landscape due to aridification affected the genetic structure and population dynamics of aardvarks.

Methodology and Findings

• The researchers surveyed multiple areas in South Africa, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), and Kenya to evaluate the impact of landscape on gene flow and genetic structure across different spatial extents.
• They collected and analyzed a substantial number of aardvark faecal samples, totalling 253, and scrutinized 104 samples for genetic information.
• At the local scale, the study revealed that aardvark populations in different regions within South Africa exhibited some level of separation.
• They found individual aardvarks in various locations, with closely related ones being separated by significant distances, up to 7.3 km apart.
• Genetic similarities were observed in aardvarks within 55 km, indicating their proximity as a determinant of genetic likeness.

Effects of Arid Areas on Aardvark Genetic Differentiation

• The research identified that arid areas across South Africa and Eswatini posed challenges to gene flow among aardvark populations.
• These areas acted as barriers, limiting genetic exchange among aardvarks.
• The study correlated this phenomenon with lower rainfall, resulting in reduced vegetation and subsequently fewer termites and ants—the primary diet of aardvarks.

Conclusion and Recommendations

• The study concluded that climate, particularly arid conditions, significantly influences the genetic structure of aardvarks.
• Arid areas restrict gene flow among populations and drive genetic adaptation associated with temperature changes.
• Consequently, the researchers recommend monitoring aardvark presence as an indicator of ecosystem changes attributed to aridification in sub-Saharan Africa.

Significance and Conservation Implications

• Understanding how climate change impacts species like aardvarks is crucial for informed conservation and ecosystem management.
• Aardvarks, despite being nocturnal, hard to trap, and existing in low densities across vast landscapes, play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.
• Addressing the challenges they face due to climate change-induced aridification is imperative to ensure their continued presence and the overall health of sub-Saharan ecosystems.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/africa/aardvarks-are-crucial-for-sub-saharan-africa-s-ecosystem-but-climate-change-is-impacting-their-chances-of-survival-93584

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: China has recently implemented stringent export restrictions on technologies associated with rare-earth magnets, signalling a response to efforts by countries like the U.S. and Japan to reduce dependence on Chinese rare-earth suppliers.

EXPLANATION:

• These restrictions encompass technologies crucial for mining, refining, and processing rare-earth metals.

Nature of the Ban

• Expanded Restrictions
  • The ban covers technologies for producing rare-earth magnets, in addition to ore mining, selection, refining, and processes related to extraction, separation, and alloy production.
  • This move indicates China’s intent to tighten control over critical industrial materials.
• Impact on Global Supply Chains
  • The global reliance on China for rare-earth elements has been significant, with China’s share of global rare-earth output decreasing to around 70% from 90% a decade earlier.
  • The restrictions pose challenges for countries like the U.S. and Japan, both significant consumers of rare-earth magnets in high-tech industries.

International Implications

• Response to Economic Security Concerns
  • The U.S. and other nations have been striving to establish independent supply chains to reduce reliance on China for strategic resources.
  • China’s dominance in rare-earth processing has raised concerns about economic security, prompting moves by other countries to diversify their sources.
• Rivalry between U.S. and China
  • The U.S. has endeavoured to develop its own rare-earth mines, yet China still maintains supremacy in refining and processing.
  • This control over the supply chain has positioned China as a critical player, triggering competition and technological advancements in high-tech fields between the U.S. and China.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Global Supply Diversification
  • While efforts are underway to establish alternative sources for rare-earth metals, challenges persist.
  • Countries lack adequate refining facilities due to environmental concerns, and China’s technological expertise in processing remains unmatched.
• Self-Sufficiency Initiatives
  • Countries like the U.S. have prioritized initiatives to reduce dependence on Chinese rare-earth processing.
  • However, achieving self-sufficiency requires substantial investments in refining technologies and infrastructure.

Chinese Government’s Strategy

• Tightening Control Over Resources
  • China’s recent measures, including advanced approval requirements for certain exports and monitoring of exported materials, underscore the government’s strategic control over key resources in high-tech sectors.
• Focus on Dominance in High-Tech Fields
  • The trimmed list of technology export curbs, coupled with more detailed technical requirements, reflects the competition between the U.S. and China for dominance in critical high-tech sectors, necessitating tighter controls over rare-earth technologies.

Conclusion

• China’s ban on rare-earth magnet technologies and associated export restrictions signals a significant move in the global geopolitical landscape.
• The increased competition between major players like the U.S., Japan, and China underscores the importance of securing independent supply chains for rare-earth metals, crucial for various high-tech industries.
• Achieving self-sufficiency in rare-earth processing remains a challenge, necessitating strategic investments and collaborative efforts among nations to ensure economic stability and technological advancement.

SOURCE: https://asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Trade/China-bans-exports-of-rare-earth-magnet-technologies#:~:text=China’s%20share%20of%20global%20rare,still%20dominates%20refining%20and%20processing

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The recent volcanic eruption that commenced near Grindavik in Iceland has raised concerns, but the Icelandic government has assured that it does not pose an immediate threat to life.

EXPLANATION:

• This eruption, which initiated on December 18th local time, is situated between Sýlingarfell and Hagafell, north of Grindavik—a town located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the southwest of Iceland.

Eruption Details and Population Impact

• Location and Proximity:
  • The eruption site lies in close proximity to the Icelandic capital, Reykjavik, which houses a significant portion of the country’s population.
• Evacuation and Precautions:
  • The 3,800 residents of Grindavik had previously been evacuated on November 10 due to escalating seismic activity.
• President emphasized the need to safeguard lives and infrastructure in his communication, highlighting the closure of the affected area and the nation’s preparedness to face the natural forces.

Geological Significance of Iceland: ‘Land of Fire and Ice’

• Mid Atlantic Ridge:
  • Iceland’s unique geological position atop the Mid Atlantic Ridge, the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, fosters its distinct landscape.
• Natural Features:
  • The country’s terrain showcases an amalgamation of geysers, glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, and lava fields, earning it the moniker ‘Land of Fire and Ice.’
• Volcanic Activity:
  • Iceland is home to 33 active volcanoes, reflecting a significant concentration of volcanic activity, notably the highest in Europe.

Historical Context and Recent Eruption Trends

• Reykjanes Peninsula:
  • The region hadn’t witnessed volcanic eruptions for nearly 800 years before experiencing four eruptions within a span of fewer than three years, hinting at a potential new phase of volcanic activity.
• Eyjafjallajokull Eruption:
  • The last globally significant eruption in Iceland occurred in 2010, when Eyjafjallajokull’s eruption disrupted air traffic across Europe and North America for six days due to an extensive ash cloud.

Expert Opinions and Potential Impact on Air Travel

• Experts noted that while the possibility of air travel disruptions due to the current eruption is unlikely, it remains a potential concern.
• The impact on air travel might occur but isn’t guaranteed at this point.

Conclusion

• The ongoing eruption near Grindavik, Iceland, raises awareness of the country’s unique geological features and its susceptibility to volcanic activity.
• While the current eruption doesn’t pose an immediate threat to life, the historical context of Icelandic eruptions, along with expert insights, underscores the need for vigilance and preparedness for potential impacts, including on air travel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE REFER TO THE 14^TH NOVEMBER 2023 DNA.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/land-of-fire-and-ice-will-the-grindavik-eruption-in-iceland-be-another-eyjafjallajokull–93471

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) took place in Dubai, gathering nations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

EXPLANATION:

• With a primary focus on tackling the climate crisis, the summit covered diverse aspects including mitigation, adaptation, financing, and the roles of developed and developing nations in climate action.

Achievements and Firsts

• Loss and Damage Fund Operationalisation
  • An important milestone emerged from the establishment of the ‘Loss and Damage’ (L&D) fund, as agreed upon during COP27.
  • COP28 witnessed the operationalization of this fund, albeit with limited pledged support—$790 million—far below the required annual corpus of $100 billion to $400 billion.
  • However, concerns arose regarding fund management and accessibility, prompting scepticism about the fund’s efficiency in promptly responding to emergencies.
  • There were also reservations about the World Bank’s oversight and the fund’s autonomy.
• Ambitious Emissions Reduction Targets
  • The summit concluded the inaugural Global Stocktake (GST), aimed at assessing progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement.
  • Commitments were made to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030, but fossil fuel use was still permitted in certain sectors like plastics, transport, and agriculture, which contradicts the essence of climate justice.
  • Furthermore, reliance on unproven technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS) and carbon removal raised concerns about the effectiveness and risks associated with such methods.
• Green Finance Mechanisms and Partnerships
  • Efforts were made to address financial shortfalls, with an emphasis on the responsibility of developed nations to provide grant-based finance.
  • Innovations in global green-finance mechanisms, including a $3.5 billion boost for the Green Climate Fund and the introduction of investment initiatives like ALTÉRRA, aimed to mobilize substantial funding.
  • However, these efforts fell short of meeting the estimated annual funding requirement for adaptation.

India’s Stance and Health Declaration

• India refrained from signing the U.A.E. declaration on climate and health due to potential conflicts with emissions reduction in the healthcare sector.
• Similarly, India did not sign the Global Methane Pledge as it shifted focus from carbon dioxide to methane, a gas with a shorter lifetime that primarily arises from agricultural practices integral to the livelihoods of small farmers.

Hits and Misses

• The COP28 outcomes featured several positive aspects, including acknowledgments of nature-based solutions, transition away from fossil fuels, and commitments to sustainable food systems.
• However, persistent challenges between developed and developing nations, such as fossil-fuel subsidies, financial resource allocation, and differing viewpoints on market mechanisms, remained unresolved.

SOME GLOBAL CLIMATE FINANCING FUNDS:

• Green Climate Fund (GCF):
  • It was established to limit or reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in developing countries and to help vulnerable societies adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change.
• Adaptation Fund (AF):
  • It was established under the Kyoto Protocol in 2001 and has committed US$ 532 million to climate adaptation and resilience activities.
• Global Environment Fund (GEF):
  • It has served as an operating entity of the financial mechanism since the Convention came into force in 1994.
  • It is a private equity fund focused on seeking long term financial returns by investments in clean energy under climate change.

Conclusion

• While COP28 showcased significant strides in renewable energy targets and financial mechanisms, unresolved issues like fund management, reliance on risky technologies, and disagreements on critical matters indicate a mixed outcome.
• Addressing the disparities between nations and ensuring equitable climate action remains a substantial challenge despite the noteworthy accomplishments at the summit.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/cop28-outcomes-decisions-explained/article67656914.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: A groundbreaking study published in Nature challenges previous estimations regarding the ocean’s capacity to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

EXPLANATION:

• It was led by an international team of researchers and asserts that the ocean can store approximately 20% more carbon than previously estimated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

Role of Plankton in Carbon Sequestration

• The study delves into the pivotal role of plankton, microscopic organisms, in facilitating the transfer of carbon from the ocean’s surface to its depths.
• Plankton, through the process of photosynthesis, consume carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and transform it into organic matter as they grow.
• Upon their demise, some plankton convert into particles termed “marine snow,” which gradually descends to the ocean floor.
• These particles not only store carbon but also serve as essential nutrients for a spectrum of deep-sea organisms, from bacteria to larger deep-sea fish.

Insights from Oceanographic Data

• The research team, comprising seven scientists, meticulously examined data compiled from oceanographic expeditions spanning back to the 1970s.
• Utilizing this extensive dataset, they constructed a digital map delineating the movement of organic matter across the world’s oceans.
• This comprehensive analysis led to a re-evaluation of the ocean’s carbon storage capacity.

Revised Estimate of Carbon Storage in the Ocean

• The study’s revised estimate suggests that the ocean has the potential to store 15 gigatons of carbon annually.
• This noteworthy increase from the IPCC’s previous estimation of 11 gigatons annually highlights a substantial advancement in comprehending global-scale carbon exchanges between the atmosphere and the ocean.

Implications and Significance

• This re-evaluation of the ocean’s capacity to sequester carbon represents a significant stride in understanding the intricate dynamics of carbon movement between the atmosphere and the ocean.
• Despite this enhanced absorption of carbon dioxide by the ocean, it’s crucial to note that this process occurs over an extensive period, spanning tens of thousands of years.
• Consequently, it is insufficient to counterbalance the rapid increase in CO2 emissions stemming from industrial activities since the 18th century.

Ocean Ecosystem’s Role in Climate Regulation

• However, the study underscores the pivotal role of the ocean ecosystem as a substantial contributor to the long-term regulation of global climate dynamics.
• It emphasizes that while the ocean’s absorption process might not suffice to offset current emissions, acknowledging its significance underscores the need for sustained efforts to protect and understand this ecosystem’s vital role in mitigating climate change.
• The ocean, acting as a major player in the global climate system, warrants continued scientific attention and conservation efforts.

SOURCE: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03662-7

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Noma, also known as cancrum oris or gangrenous stomatitis, has been officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a neglected tropical disease (NTD).

EXPLANATION:

• This severe gangrenous disease affects the mouth and face, exhibiting an alarming mortality rate of approximately 90%. (Gangrenous: Decaying of a part of body because the blood has stopped flowing there.)
• It is closely associated with extreme poverty, malnutrition, and poor sanitation and oral hygiene, further exacerbating its impact on vulnerable communities.

Characteristics and Impact

• Primarily affecting children between the ages of 2-6 years, Noma displays a severe lack of awareness, with unreliable estimates of cases due to its occurrence in marginalized populations.
• It is named after the Greek word “nomē,” signifying “to devour,” as it progressively consumes facial tissues and bones if left untreated.

Causes and Risk Factors

• The disease is linked to various risk factors, including poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, infections, and extreme poverty.
• Although not contagious, Noma preys on individuals with compromised immune defenses.
• It typically initiates with gum inflammation, likely caused by bacteria present in the mouth.

Geographical Prevalence and Historical Context

• Noma predominantly affects children in developing nations, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is primarily observed among impoverished children aged 3-10 years.
• Historical studies indicate that the disease may result from oral contamination by specific bacteria and microbial combinations.

Medical Implications and Challenges

• Early detection is crucial due to Noma’s high mortality rate.
• Basic hygiene, antibiotics, and nutritional support can significantly slow its spread.
• The disease often originates as an ulcer on the mucous membrane, following illnesses like measles.

Consequences and Survivorship

• Survivors of Noma face profound consequences, including severe facial disfigurement, jaw muscle spasms, oral incontinence, and speech impairments.
• Effective treatments such as sulphonamides, penicillin, and surgical interventions remain inaccessible to many due to economic disparities.

Historical Perspective and Eradication Efforts

• Noma was prevalent in earlier centuries but diminished in the Western world with improved nutrition and disease prevention measures.
• Its occurrence in concentration camps during World War II highlights its historical impact.

WHO’s Recognition and Future Prospects

• The inclusion of Noma in WHO’s list of neglected tropical diseases signifies a crucial step toward addressing this overlooked health challenge.
• Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders emphasizes the need for increased attention and resources to combat Noma.
• The WHO aims to raise global awareness, stimulate research, secure funding, and implement comprehensive strategies to control the disease.

Conclusion and Future Endeavours

• Recognition of Noma as an NTD seeks to leverage global attention and multidisciplinary approaches to combat the disease.
• Efforts targeting underserved populations are critical, contributing not only to disease control but also to achieving universal health coverage.
• The WHO’s acknowledgment emphasizes the urgency of addressing Noma and underscores the need for collaborative, multifaceted interventions to mitigate its devastating impact on vulnerable communities.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/health/what-is-noma-the-latest-addition-to-who-s-list-of-neglected-tropical-diseases-93439

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The recent approvals by regulatory agencies in the UK and the US for CRISPR-based therapies targeting sickle-cell disease and β-thalassemia mark a transformative era in medicine.

EXPLANATION:

• These inherited blood disorders affect millions globally, and the approvals signify a shift towards addressing their molecular basis rather than just symptom management.

THE EVOLUTION OF CRISPR TECHNOLOGY

• Origins of CRISPR
  • CRISPR, an acronym for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, originated from the discovery of DNA elements in 1993 by Spanish researchers.
  • These elements were found in archaea and later in bacterial genomes.
  • Initially thought to be a part of the bacterial immune system against viruses, it was revealed that CRISPR, combined with CRISPR-associated proteins (Cas), functioned as an antiviral defense mechanism.
• Milestone Discoveries
  • The groundbreaking work of Emmanuelle Charpentier, Jennifer Doudna, and Virginijus Siksnys led to key discoveries.
  • In 2010, it was demonstrated that CRISPR, specifically with Cas9 proteins, could cut DNA at precise points.
  • The identification of RNA molecules guiding Cas9 to specific genomic positions further revolutionized its potential.
  • This work culminated in the development of a programmable ‘molecular scissor’ capable of editing DNA accurately.
• CRISPR-Cas9 Advancements
  • Subsequent research by Feng Zhang and George Church showcased CRISPR-Cas9’s ability to edit the genomes of eukaryotic organisms.
  • This innovation expanded its applications, ranging from genetic therapies to agricultural advancements.

CRISPR IN MEDICINE: CURRENT ACHIEVEMENTS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

• First-Generation Technologies
  • The approved CRISPR-based therapeutics represent first-generation technologies.
  • Though groundbreaking, they are continuously evolving to become more efficient and effective.
  • Novel approaches like base editing and prime editing hold immense promise for precise genome editing at the nucleotide level, addressing diseases like familial hypercholesterolemia.
• Emerging Techniques and Challenges
  • Techniques like base editing and prime editing are showing potential, yet safety and accuracy issues persist.
  • Off-target events, where CRISPR systems inaccurately edit unintended parts of the genome, pose risks.
  • Balancing short-term benefits with long-term risks remains critical, especially as these therapies are still in early developmental stages.

THE FUTURE LANDSCAPE AND CONSIDERATIONS

• Potential and Caution
  • While celebrating the transformative potential of CRISPR-based therapies like Casgevy, it’s essential to acknowledge potential risks.
  • Continued scrutiny and surveillance are imperative to identify and address unforeseen side effects.
  • The enormous promise of these technologies must be cautiously balanced with potential risks to ensure patient safety and ethical considerations.
• Moving Forward
  • CRISPR technology has opened doors to a future where the correction of genetic anomalies is a reality.
  • The ongoing advancements in CRISPR-based therapies signify a promising era in medicine, holding immense potential to alleviate the suffering of millions affected by genetic diseases.

CONCLUSION

• The approval of CRISPR-based therapies represents a significant leap in medical science, offering hope to patients with genetic disorders.
• While these treatments mark a milestone, continuous research, vigilance, and technological advancements are crucial to maximize benefits while minimizing risks associated with genome editing technologies.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/crispr-casgevy-sickle-cell-disease-genetic-therapeutics-explained/article67641478.ece

TAG: GS 3 ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

CONTEXT: Despite India’s push to increasing green capacity in line with its nationally determined contributions (NDC), the policymakers in India have realised that unless viable energy storage options are available, green energy addition will not make any sense. In view of this, the COP28’s decision to stick to ‘transitioning away from fossil fuel’, and not the complete ‘phase-out’, has come as a breather for India.

EXPLANATION

• There was a strong pushback by India and countries like China to a proposal stipulating that no new coal-fired power plants can be commissioned without an in-built carbon capture and storage facility.
• Their opposition, ultimately, led to the omission of the clause from the final climate deal of
• Recently, the Union Power Ministry has decided to step up its coal-powered generation capacity, with plans to add at least 80 gigawatts (GW, where 1 GW is equal to 1,000 megawatts or MW) by 2031-32.

IS RENEWABLES’ PUSH WANING?

• As part of its emission-reduction resolve, the government stepped up renewable capacity addition over the last decade.
• Now, more than 40% of installed electricity capacity comes from non-fossil fuel sources. Solar and wind capacity is now more than 30%.
• With this, the grid is increasingly powered by renewables now, which creates the problem of intermittency, a significant challenge from a grid management perspective.

WHAT IS ‘INTERMITTENCY’ IN RENEWABLES

• Renewable energy cannot always consistently produce energy at all hours of the day. Energy production fluctuates with renewable energy. This is termed as Electricity is generated only when the sun shines or when the wind blows, which is not always in sync with the demand cycle.
• On the other hand, power output generated by fossil fuel-based power plants using coal or natural gas is constant. This has often been referred to as base-load energy.
• Hence, to counter the problem with renewables, power utilities are forced to keep old thermal units on standby — but that involves high fixed costs payouts.

INDIA’S NEW COAL THRUST

• Although the plan to increase coal-based capacity is broadly in line with the National Electricity Plan for 2022-27, the new blueprint for the country’s power sector marks a discernible pivot and a policy reversal from earlier years.
• It underscores the country’s resolve to revert to coal for desperately-needed baseload capacity.

STORAGE CONUNDRUMS

• Without storage, incremental renewable power capacity poses problems for grid managers.
• Renewables are not always a viable option for procurers such as state-owned distribution companies (discoms), due to vagaries in the generation trends.
• It means they have to depend on thermal or nuclear generation to meet the base load demand.
• Storage is expensive currently, and the Lithium-ion storage battery option for grid application is being ruled out as unviable.

WHAT IS THE WAY OUT?

• Hydrogen and hybrid generation models blended with off-stream pumped storage are being cited as two alternatives.
• The government is also looking to mandate renewable energy projects with more than 5-megawatt (MW) capacity to install energy storage systems (ESS).
• However, there is a recognition that coal-fired capacity needs to stay as base load for the time being.
• More steps are required to be taken at the policy and regulatory levels for ensuring an enabling ecosystem for storage systems.

CONCLUSION: While cutting down on fossil fuel usage is imperative to meet the Paris Climate Agreement goals, access to viable storage technology is equally important. The breather may have been given, but the developed countries need to accelerate their mitigation efforts to allow a fair share of remaining carbon space to be available to developing countries.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/india-coal-renewable-energy-storage-9069676/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The 2023 summer in the Arctic was the warmest on record and the region has been warming nearly four times faster than the global average since 1979. This has been highlighted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) annual Arctic Report Card, a peer-reviewed analysis conducted by 82 scientists from 13 countries.

EXPLANATION:

The report has highlighted 5 major consequences of the rising temperatures in the Arctic region:

1. Thawing Of Subsea Permafrost
2. Food Insecurity
3. Raging Wildfires
4. Severe Flooding
5. Greenland Ice Sheet Melting

THAWING OF SUBSEA PERMAFROST

As subsea permafrost thaws, the organic matter within it begins to decay. This decomposition process releases large amounts of methane and carbon dioxide into the surrounding water and atmosphere.

Impact

• Global Warming: The released greenhouse gases trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, contributing to the ongoing trend of global warming.
• Ocean Acidification: Carbon dioxide also leads to ocean acidification, lowering the pH of the ocean. This can have detrimental effects on marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, such as corals, mollusks, and certain plankton species.

FOOD INSECURITY

Salmon is a crucial part of the traditional diet in many Indigenous cultures, providing essential nutrients and serving as a staple food source.

Impact

• Food crisis: The reduced numbers and size of Chinook and chum salmon represent a significant threat to the food security of Indigenous communities.
• Cultural impact: The decline in salmon populations disrupts the cultural fabric of these communities, impacting their way of life and connection to the land.
• Increase in conflicts: This can also result in conflicts over access to dwindling salmon resources, further straining the relationships between different user groups.

RAGING WILDFIRES

High temperatures and below-average rainfall created favorable conditions for increased instances of wildfires. Canada experienced its worst wildfire season, with over 10 million acres burned in the Northwest Territories.

Impact

• Destruction of Ecosystems: Wildfires lead to the rapid destruction of vegetation and ecosystems which have long-lasting effects on the local flora and fauna.
• Air Quality: The smoke produced by wildfires can travel over long distances, affecting air quality. This poses serious health risks, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions.
• Evacuations and Displacement: The need to evacuate two-thirds of the population in the affected territories disrupts communities and places a strain on emergency services.

SEVERE FLOODING

Glacier meltwater caused floods, leading to property damage, and highlighting the tangible consequences of glacial retreat.

Impact

• Property Damage: Flooding, especially when caused by the meltwater from glaciers, can lead to severe damage to infrastructure, homes, and businesses.
• Risk to Lives: Flooding poses a direct threat to human lives. The sudden release of water from a glacial lake can lead to flash floods, putting communities at risk.
• Displacement and Community Disruption: Flooding can force communities to evacuate temporarily or permanently which can weaken the strong community bonding.

GREENLAND ICE SHEET MELTING

The melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet has far-reaching consequences, affecting both local and global environments.

Impact

• Sea Level Rise: The Greenland Ice Sheet continues to lose mass, contributing to rising sea levels. Sea level rise poses a global threat to coastal communities and ecosystems.
• Global Climate System: The melting of large ice sheets can disrupt ocean currents and impact global climate systems.
• Local Environmental Changes: The melting of ice alters the local environment in Greenland. This includes changes in the availability of freshwater, affecting ecosystems and wildlife.

CONCLUSION

• Arctic’s vulnerability underscores the pressing need for concerted efforts to combat climate change.
• The report highlights the far-reaching consequences of global warming, urging society to take collective action to mitigate these impacts and build resilience in the face of a changing climate.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/arctic-hottest-summer-climate-change-9069590/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: A recent study, published in the International Journal of Water Resources Development, delves into the intricate relationship between climate variability and its effects on crop yield in India.

EXPLANATION:

• The study offers critical insights into the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, particularly concerning water risks.
• Here, we will explore the nuanced findings and their implications for informed policy decisions.

Climate Variability and Crop Yield Analysis

• Seasonal Impact on Crop Yield:
  • The study highlights the significant influence of climate variables like rainfall, evapotranspiration, temperature, and windspeed across different seasons on crop yields.
  • Each crop exhibits varying degrees of sensitivity to these climate elements, impacting both the expected yield and yield variability.
• Crop-Specific Responses:
  • Crops such as bajra, chickpea, groundnut, rice, and sugarcane demonstrate unique relationships with climate variables.
  • For instance, the optimal levels of rainfall and temperature vary for different crops, influencing their yields positively or negatively.
• Risk Assessment and Water Elements:
  • Extremes in rainfall, temperature, evapotranspiration, and windspeed are associated with increased yield risks for specific crops.
  • Moreover, the study identifies how low or high values of these climatic factors affect crop yield variability.

Water Management Implications and Policy Considerations

• Water Availability and Crop Production:
  • Changes in water availability due to climate variations significantly impact crop production.
  • To mitigate adverse effects, the study suggests strategies such as diverting surplus water for storage to meet higher water demands during dry seasons.
• Addressing Extreme Climate Events:
  • Flooding and droughts caused by extreme rainfall and temperature pose challenges.
  • Effective drainage systems and reallocation of water to crops benefiting from irrigation expansion or tolerant to extremes are recommended for better water management.
• Adaptive Strategies:
  • The study emphasizes the need for seasonal adaptations and crop-specific measures to sustain long-term water availability.
  • It suggests identifying high-tolerant crops and optimizing irrigation diversification based on climate effects.

Policy Implications and Future Directions

• Enhancing Water Management Policies:
  • Policy re-evaluation is essential to address the impact of climate change on farm water management.
  • Decision-makers need to consider strategies like predictive techniques, diversification of irrigation, and climate-smart agriculture for sustainable outcomes.
• Incorporating Scientific Techniques:
  • Implementing modern irrigation techniques and utilizing rainwater effectively can alleviate pressure on groundwater resources.
  • Precision farming, scientific water management, and climate-smart agricultural practices are advocated for resilient crop production.
• Inclusive Governance and Farmer Participation:
  • Encouraging farmer involvement in water management and aligning policies with region-specific sustainable agricultural practices can yield efficient, equitable, and economically viable outcomes.

Conclusion

• Understanding the intricate effects of climate variability on crop yield and water security is paramount for reevaluating agricultural policies in India.
• This study underscores the need for adaptive strategies, scientific water management, and climate-resilient agriculture to mitigate risks associated with climate change.
• Policy interventions that prioritize sustainable water use and empower local governance can pave the way for resilient agricultural practices and long-term food security in India.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/agriculture/understanding-climate-effect-on-crop-yield-and-associated-risks-to-water-security-in-india-is-crucial-93393

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The recently concluded COP28 in Dubai aimed to address critical issues in combating climate change, particularly the pressing need to align actions with the 1.5-degree Celsius warming threshold.

EXPLANATION:

• However, an analysis of the agreement suggests a significant gap between aspirations and practical measures to achieve this ambitious goal.

Inadequacies in Addressing Emissions

• Reality Check on Emissions:
  • Despite claims of progress, the UN Environment Programme’s Emissions Gap Report revealed a disheartening reality.
  • Global emissions in 2022 surged by at least a billion tonnes compared to 2019, indicating a nearly 2% rise, a troubling trend for climate targets.
• IPCC Recommendations vs. Current Actions:
  • The IPCC guidelines underscore a crucial requirement: a 43% reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions from 2019 levels by 2030 to sustain the 1.5-degree target.
  • However, current actions, as outlined in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), are projected to lead to a mere 2% reduction by 2030, vastly inadequate to meet the urgent emission cut requirement.

Effectiveness of Climate Actions

• Insufficiency of Annual Emission Reductions:
  • To achieve the necessary 43% cut by 2030, an unprecedented average annual reduction of 8.7% is mandated.
  • Historical data reveals such extensive cuts have never been accomplished, even during significant disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Lack of Immediate Action Acceleration:
  • Despite the agreement highlighting tripling renewable energy and doubling energy efficiency improvements by 2030, there is an evident absence of concrete steps to expedite immediate climate actions.

Challenges and Weaknesses in the Agreement

• Insufficient Contribution of Measures:
  • Estimates from the International Energy Agency (IEA) suggest that the proposed measures could potentially save 7 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2030.
  • However, this pales in comparison to the projected shortfall of 24 billion tonnes, as per the Emissions Gap Report.
• Methane Emissions and Weak Agreements:
  • The agreement’s focus on methane reductions, though impactful due to methane’s potency, is limited as it accounts for less than a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Furthermore, the COP28 agreement on methane cuts lacks defined reduction targets and relies heavily on voluntary commitments.

Financial Constraints and Lack of Resourcing

• Limitations in Financial Aid:
  • Many developing countries outlined in their NDCs that they could amplify climate actions if provided with requisite financial and technological support.
  • Unfortunately, COP28 failed to address this crucial aspect, hindering the potential acceleration of climate actions.

Conclusion

• The COP28 agreement, despite its symbolic acknowledgment of transitioning from fossil fuels and emphasizing renewable energy and efficiency improvements, falls short in several critical aspects.
• The disparity between ambitious climate targets and practical measures to achieve them persists, with insufficient emission reductions and inadequate financial support hampering global efforts to combat climate change effectively.
• The urgent need for more concrete, aggressive actions remain unmet, jeopardizing the prospect of attaining the 1.5-degree Celsius pathway.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/climate-change/given-a-robust-action-plan-to-keep-1-5c-target-within-reach-al-jaber-9067394/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The Saiga antelope, which faced a perilous decline since the breakup of the Soviet Union, has demonstrated a remarkable recovery, prompting the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to alter its status from Critically Endangered to Near Threatened.

EXPLANATION:

• Despite disease outbreaks and challenges, conservation efforts have contributed significantly to its survival.

Saiga Population and Decline

• In 2003, merely 6% of the Saiga population remained, marking a drastic decline from an estimated one million in the early 1990s.
• The antelope species, existing since the last Ice Age, were originally spread across the Eurasian Steppe but now inhabit fragmented populations within Kazakhstan, Mongolia, the Russian Federation, and Uzbekistan.

Conservation Impact and Efforts

• The positive change in the Saiga’s global Red List status is attributed to effective national and international conservation initiatives, particularly in Kazakhstan.
• Kazakhstan witnessed a substantial recovery in Saiga populations, increasing from a critical low of 48,000 in 2005 to over 1.9 million, largely due to anti-poaching measures, law enforcement, and the establishment of protected areas.

Government and Civil Society Collaboration

• The Government of Kazakhstan has taken commendable leadership in species recovery, investing in impactful actions and forming collaborations with civil society.
• This inclusive network involves government bodies, conservationists, academics, and international experts.
• International organizations like the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) have played significant roles in facilitating coordinated conservation efforts across Saiga habitats.

Ongoing Challenges and Future Prospects

• While there has been a notable increase in Saiga populations in Kazakhstan and Mongolia, the species still faces challenges.
• Challenges include ongoing poaching, illegal trade, disease outbreaks, climate change impacts, human interference, and infrastructure development, all of which threaten the Saiga’s full recovery.

Continued Conservation Efforts

• Efforts to sustain recovery include maintaining population monitoring, protecting key habitats, collaborating with local communities for awareness and conservation actions and addressing persistent threats to Saiga populations.
• While progress has been significant, the Saiga’s full recovery will only be achieved by restoring its ecological role across its entire range and addressing the persisting threats to its existence.

Conclusion

• The Saiga antelope’s resurgence from the brink of extinction is a testament to the success of coordinated conservation efforts, particularly in Kazakhstan, and international collaboration.
• However, sustained efforts are crucial to ensuring the Saiga’s continued recovery and securing its place in the vast Eurasian Steppe ecosystem.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/miracle-on-the-steppe-the-saiga-has-beaten-extinction-for-now-finds-new-iucn-red-list-93335

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Researchers at IIT Jodhpur have developed a groundbreaking method that combines algae-assisted microbial fuel cells to capture carbon dioxide, treat wastewater, and generate power simultaneously.

EXPLANATION:

• This technology represents a promising alternative to traditional carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) methods, offering multiple benefits in environmental remediation and energy production.

ALGAE-ASSISTED CARBON CAPTURE PROCESS

• Absorption of CO2 from Flue Gas
  • The process initiates by cooling the flue gas from thermal power stations and industrial plants using a heat exchanger.
  • The cooled flue gas is then directed to a sieve-plate absorption column, where sodium carbonate supplemented wastewater absorbs CO2, producing flue-gas-derived bicarbonates (FGDBs).
• Utilization in Algae-Assisted Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC)
  • FGDBs are utilized in plastic bag photobioreactors (PBRs) combined with algae-assisted microbial fuel cells.
  • This novel integration facilitates biochemical CO2 sequestration while simultaneously generating power and promoting algae biomass growth.

ADVANTAGES OVER CONVENTIONAL METHODS

• Efficiency of CO2 Fixation
  • Compared to the conventional method of bubbling flue gases into algal ponds, the indirect biochemical route adopted by IIT Jodhpur proves more efficient.
  • It converts CO2 into carbonates, enhancing the solubility of inorganic carbon in water, thereby fostering increased carbon retention in the water.
• Closed Systems and Wastewater Usage
  • The use of closed systems like PBRs is highlighted as preferable to open ponds, as they prevent decomposition of bicarbonates into CO2 and maintain pH levels.
  • Additionally, the technology utilizes wastewater, utilizing a thermo-tolerant algal strain (Chlorella vulgaris) capable of thriving in such conditions.

POWER GENERATION AND SCALING CHALLENGES

• Algae in Microbial Fuel Cells
  • The integration of algae into microbial fuel cells generates electricity.
  • This bio-electrochemical process harnesses the metabolic activity of microorganisms breaking down organic matter in wastewater, releasing electrons that produce electric current.
• Scalability and Limitations
  • While theoretically, all available flue gas can be used to grow algae, scalability presents challenges.
  • A tonne per day of CO2 capture demands a substantial algae culture area, limiting the practical scale of operation.
  • Moreover, only a small fraction of algae is used for power generation, leaving the majority available for bioenergy purposes.

FUTURE PROSPECTS AND DEVELOPMENT

• Further Refinement and Research
  • Technology requires refinement and further research.
  • Developmental avenues include enhancing microbial consortia or genetically engineered strains, comprehensive mass balance studies, determination of feed flow rates, and retention times for efficient CO2 capture.
• Device Optimization
  • Enhancements to the device itself could involve integrating specialized gas diffusing devices (spargers) for a stable gas supply, ensuring sustained algal growth.

CONCLUSION

• IIT Jodhpur’s innovative algae-assisted microbial fuel cell technology showcases a promising approach to address multiple environmental challenges simultaneously.
• While requiring further development and refinement, its potential to capture CO2, treat wastewater, and generate power represents a significant step towards sustainable and efficient energy solutions.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/business-tech/carbon-capture-by-algae-assisted-microbial-fuel-cell-shows-promise/article67624539.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The renewable energy pledge, signed by 118 countries during the COP28 climate summit, aims to triple the world’s green energy capacity to 11,000 GW by 2030.

EXPLANATION:

• This initiative is crucial in reducing reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation.
• The objective is to limit the global average temperature increase, striving to stay below the 2-degree Celsius temperature rise since pre-industrial times, in alignment with the 2015 Paris Agreement goals.

Goals and Implications

• The pledge requires countries to double the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements from about 2% to over 4% each year until 2030.
• This ambitious target signifies a collective effort by world governments to mitigate the rise in emissions and shift away from fossil fuel dependency.
• The intention is to contribute to curbing the temperature rise and ideally achieve the more ambitious 1.5-degree Celsius goal set in the Paris Agreement.

Unbinding Nature of the Pledge

• It’s essential to note that while this pledge is a significant indicator of global leaders’ intentions to tackle emissions, it is not legally binding and is not officially part of the COP28 calendar.
• However, it signals a strong commitment to combatting global emissions.

ROLE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY IN CLIMATE MITIGATION

• Renewable Energy’s Growing Dominance
  • The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts that between 2022 and 2027, renewables will constitute over 90% of global electricity capacity expansion.
  • Countries like China, the EU, the US, and India are key drivers behind this acceleration, implementing policies, regulatory reforms, and market changes to address the energy crisis.
• Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels
  • Solar, wind, hydropower, and biofuels are recognized as the primary future energy sources, even in developing nations.
  • The ambitious aim to triple renewable energy by 2050 is expected to significantly diminish reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation.
• Global Efforts and India’s Role
  • Various countries are actively increasing their renewable energy capacity.
  • India, for instance, is the world’s third-largest renewable energy producer and aims to fulfill 50% of its electricity demands from renewables by 2030, with a net-zero emissions target by 2070.
  • However, challenges such as rising costs, labor constraints, and supply chain issues are impeding renewable energy projects globally.

GLOBAL ENERGY TRANSITION CHALLENGES

• Expanding Renewables Beyond Electricity
  • While the electricity sector is experiencing substantial growth in renewables, accounting for only a fifth of global energy consumption, integrating renewable sources into transportation and heating remains a critical challenge in the overall energy transition.
• Hurdles in Renewable Deployment
  • Despite the enthusiasm for renewable energy, deployment faces obstacles like rising costs, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions.
  • These challenges have resulted in delays and cancellations of projects, causing substantial financial losses for leading developers worldwide.

GEOPOLITICAL CONSIDERATIONS AND STANDPOINTS

• Initiatives and Opposition
  • The pledge spearheaded by the EU, US, and UAE received support from several countries but faced opposition from major coal-dependent nations like India and China.
  • These countries expressed concerns about the initiative’s stance on phasing down coal and halting investments in new coal-fired power plants.
• India’s Position
  • India, while initially staying away from the initiative due to its implications on coal, had previously supported a G20 commitment to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030.
  • This reflects the complexity of balancing energy transition goals with existing economic dependencies on coal.

CONCLUSION

• The renewable energy pledge at COP28 represents a significant commitment by numerous countries to accelerate the global shift towards renewable energy sources.
• Despite challenges and diverging perspectives, this initiative highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts to mitigate climate change by transitioning away from fossil fuels.
• However, the practical implementation and overcoming of geopolitical differences pose significant challenges on the road to achieving these ambitious targets.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/cop28-tripling-renewable-energy-target-9062282/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

• THE CONTEXT: The Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojana, focusing on infrastructure development for the Kailas-Mansarovar yatra, recently came under scrutiny due to revelations of bypassing necessary environmental impact assessments (EIA).

EXPLANATION:

• Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, acknowledged that the environmental impact assessment norms were bypassed for civil works comprising the improvement of existing national highways in the Tanakpur to Pithoragarh section, totalling 825 kilometers.

• Project Division:
  • The project was fragmented into 53 parts, each less than 100 kilometers, effectively avoiding the requirement for environmental impact assessments, a strategy disclosed by Gadkari.

Lack of EIA and Supreme Court Directives

• Requirement for EIA:
  • The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) guidelines state that projects involving highway expansion beyond 100 kilometers or extensive land acquisition demand prior environmental clearances.
  • However, due to the subdivision of the project, the need for EIA was circumvented.
• Supreme Court Intervention:
  • The Supreme Court, on the application by the Union Ministry of Defence, allowed the widening of three strategically significant National Highways under the Chardham Pariyojana.
  • The court mandated a 10-meter-wide pavement for these highways.

Committees and Oversight for Environmental Assessment

• Constitution of High-Powered Committee (HPC):
  • MoEFCC established an HPC with representatives from various institutes to analyze the cumulative and individual impact of the Chardham Projects on the Himalayan valleys.
  • The committee aims to issue directives for conducting EIA or Rapid EIA as needed.
• Oversight Committee by Supreme Court:
  • An “Oversight Committee” was set up by the Supreme Court to ensure the implementation of recommendations from the HPC’s report.
  • This committee oversees the compliance of its suggestions in the remaining segments of the Chardham Pariyojana.

Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojana (Char Dham Highway Development Project):

• Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the ambitious Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojna on 27th December 2016 at Parade Ground in Dehradun.
• The project aims at improving the connectivity to the Char Dham pilgrimage centres in the Himalayas, making journey to these centres safer, faster and more convenient.
• The Chardham project includes developing 900 km of national highways in Uttarakhand at a total cost of Rs. 12000 crores.
• Work for 17 projects worth Rs 3000 crores have already been sanctioned and tendered.
• The entire length of the highways will be two-laned with paved shoulder and with a minimum width of 10 metres.
• There will be tunnels, bypasses, bridges, subways and viaducts to prevent traffic bottlenecks.
• A team of experts have been engaged to identify zones prone to landslides, and environment friendly techniques are being incorporated in the design to make these zones safer.
• Wayside amenities and public facilities will be constructed all along the Chardham route, including parking spaces and helipad for emergency evacuation.

Conclusion: Environmental Compliance and Continuing Scrutiny

• The revelation of bypassing EIA norms in the Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojayana has raised concerns regarding environmental compliance in crucial infrastructure projects.
• The intervention of the Supreme Court and the formation of committees signify ongoing efforts to rectify this issue and ensure environmental sustainability in the project’s execution.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/government-admits-to-have-bypassed-environment-impact-assessments-for-chardham-project-93268

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY, GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution directed all mills and distilleries not to use sugarcane juice/syrup for making any ethanol “with immediate effect”.

EXPLANATION:

• This directive is a setback for companies that had invested in facilities to produce ethanol directly from cane juice/syrup, affecting their operations.
• The Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) aimed to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels by blending ethanol extracted from agricultural resources into petrol.
• This initiative has seen notable success, with ethanol blending in petrol rising significantly from 1.6% in 2013-14 to 11.8% in 2022-23.

Feedstock Diversification and Differential Pricing

• The increase in ethanol production was fuelled by diversification in feedstocks.
• Previously reliant on sugarcane-based feedstocks, the program expanded to include B-heavy molasses, concentrated sugarcane juice, surplus rice from FCI stocks, damaged food grains, and maize.
• Differential pricing policies, introduced by the government, incentivized ethanol production from alternative feedstocks by offering higher prices for ethanol produced from sources other than C-heavy molasses.

Impact on Supply and Blending Targets

• The directive has implications for the supply of ethanol to Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), affecting their ability to meet blending targets.
• OMCs received offers for ethanol supply for 2023-24, with a significant portion (135 crore litres) coming from ethanol produced from sugarcane juice/syrup.
• The restriction could lead to stranded capacities and impact the achievement of blending targets, set at 15%.

Shift in Feedstock and Pricing Policy

• Industry experts anticipate a shift in ethanol production from a reliance on sugarcane-based feedstocks to greater utilization of grains due to the government’s supportive pricing policies.
• These policies have encouraged diversification and reduced dependence on a single feedstock or crop for ethanol production.

Concerns Over Sugar Supply

• The directive limiting sugarcane juice/syrup for ethanol production is tied to concerns over sugar supply.
• The sugar year ended with low stocks, and uncertainties over production for the current year further compound the situation.
• Anticipated declines in sugar production in key states like Maharashtra and Karnataka due to inadequate rainfall and low reservoir levels add to the apprehension.

Government Prioritization: Food Over Fuel

• The recent directives, coupled with the ban on sugar exports, signal the government’s prioritization of domestic food supply over ethanol production.
• This stance underscores a preference for ensuring adequate food availability for consumers over prioritizing fuel production.

ETHANOL BLENDING PROGRAMME:

• Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme was launched in January, 2003 with a target of blending 5% ethanol with petrol by 2010.
• The target was subsequently revised to 10% by 2022 and 20% by 2030.
• The programme sought to promote the use of alternative and environment friendly fuels and to reduce import dependency for energy requirements.

Conclusion

• The recent restrictions on using sugarcane juice/syrup for ethanol production have significant ramifications for the ethanol blending program in India.
• They not only impact the supply of ethanol but also highlight the government’s prioritization of food security over fuel production, reflecting concerns over sugar stocks and production uncertainties in the agricultural sector.
• The industry may see a shift towards alternative feedstocks and pricing strategies to navigate these challenges in achieving ethanol blending targets set by the government.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/food-versus-fuel-whats-happening-with-centres-ethanol-blending-scheme-9062757/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: As per an annual report published on the sidelines of the ongoing COP28 at Dubai recently, India has been effectively ranked fourth in climate performance 2024.

EXPLANATION:

• India secured the seventh rank in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) for 2022, exhibiting an improvement from its eighth position last year.
• Despite this, India effectively stands fourth as no country occupies the top three ranks in the ‘very high’ performance category.
• The report was released during COP28 in Dubai, highlighting India’s score of 70.25% in climate performance, a notable increase from its 67.35% score the previous year.

Top Performing Countries and India’s Position

• Denmark retained the top position in the index with a score of 75.59%, followed by Estonia and the Philippines in the second and third positions, respectively. India closely followed, securing the fourth position in the rankings. However, it is imperative to note that most developed countries witnessed a decline in their performance compared to the previous year.

Global Trends and Concerns Highlighted in the Report

• Global Emissions and Targets:
  • The report emphasizes the urgency for countries to peak their emissions by 2025 and halve their emissions by 2030 in comparison to 2020 levels to maintain the 1.5°C goal set in the Paris Agreement.
  • Despite this urgency, global greenhouse gas emissions increased in 2022, and atmospheric CO2 levels are now 50% higher than pre-industrial levels.
• Lack of Improvement in Global Performance:
  • An analysis showed that out of 64 assessed countries, 37 countries regressed in their performance from the previous year, and the positions of five countries remained unchanged.
  • This stagnation in progress toward reducing emissions is a significant concern outlined in the report.

Parameters Considered in Assessing Climate Performance

• The CCPI evaluates countries based on four key categories, each contributing to a percentage of the overall ranking:
  • Greenhouse Gas Emissions (40%):
    • India ranked ninth in this category, attributed to its lower per capita energy use.
  • Renewable Energy (20%):
    • India ranked 37th, signalling a slight decline in performance from the preceding year, despite remaining within the ‘high’ performance category.
  • Energy Use (20%):
    • India ranked tenth due to its low per capita benchmark, contributing to a favorable assessment in this category.
  • Climate Policy (20%):
    • India also ranked tenth in Climate Policy, indicating moderate progress in policy initiatives for climate change mitigation.

India’s Energy Landscape and Coal Dependence

• Renewable Energy Progress:
  • While India shows a positive trend in renewable energy, the report highlights this progress as slow, leading to its 37th rank in the category.
• Challenges with Coal Usage:
  • India’s heavy reliance on coal to meet its escalating energy demands remains a significant concern.
  • The report underscores that despite efforts to meet its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) through promoting renewable energy, the reliance on coal and fossil fuels leads to substantial greenhouse gas emissions and severe air pollution, particularly in urban areas.

Comparative Analysis with BASIC Group (Brazil, South Africa, India, and China) and Developed Nations

• Performance of BASIC Countries:
  • Apart from India, other BASIC countries like China, Brazil, and South Africa showcase varying performances.
  • China retained its position from the previous year, while Brazil improved significantly by 15 positions.
  • South Africa experienced a slight decline in rank.
• Challenges for Developed Nations:
  • Developed countries like Italy, United Kingdom, France, Japan, and the United States witnessed a decline in their rankings, reflecting challenges in meeting climate goals and reducing emissions.

Conclusion and Concerns for Future Climate Action

• The CCPI report highlights India’s commendable performance in certain parameters but emphasizes the need for accelerated progress in renewable energy, reduced reliance on coal, and more robust climate policy measures.
• Globally, the report underlines the stagnation in climate performance and the urgency for countries, especially developed nations, to ramp up efforts to mitigate climate change and achieve emission reduction targets.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/cop28-india-had-fourth-best-ranking-in-climate-performance-among-countries-during-2022-says-report-93276

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recent seismic activity in parts of north India and Nepal has been attributed to the activation of the Almora fault, according to Earth Sciences Minister.

EXPLANATION:

Background Seismicity and Recent Spike

• Consistent Background Seismicity:
  • The Earth Sciences Minister highlighted the steady level of background seismic activity, denoting usual earthquake occurrences, in the regions under scrutiny.
• Recent Spike in Earthquakes:
  • Despite the consistent background seismicity, certain areas in north India and Nepal experienced a surge in seismic events, particularly attributed to the activation of the Almora fault.

Role of Almora Fault in Earthquake Occurrences

• Triggering Significant Earthquakes:
  • The Almora fault, a critical geological structure in the western Himalayas, has played a pivotal role in recent seismic activity.
• Key Mainshocks and Their Magnitudes:
  • Notable earthquakes were reported on January 24 (5.8 magnitude), October 3 (6.2 magnitude), and November 3 (6.4 magnitude), all linked to the Almora fault.
• Geological Significance:
  • The fault line lies adjacent to active faults within the Himalayan region, where the Indian plate subducts under the Eurasian Plate, resulting in frequent seismic occurrences.

Impact and Concerns

• Geographical Impact:
  • The seismic events had a wide-reaching impact, with tremors felt across a significant area.
  • For instance, the January 24 quake centered in Nepal was felt strongly in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
• Safety and Preparedness Concerns:
  • The recent activation of the Almora fault has raised concerns regarding regional safety measures and preparedness for potential earthquakes.

Mitigation Efforts and Safety Measures

• Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Initiatives:
  • The BIS’s has played an important role in releasing the Seismic Zoning Map of India, categorizing regions into different risk zones (II to V) and offering guidelines for constructing earthquake-resistant structures.
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Interventions:
  • The NDMA is actively implementing precautionary measures, including earthquake drills, awareness campaigns, and incident management strategies to enhance preparedness and response capabilities in seismic zones.

Lessons and Continued Vigilance

• Aftermath and Aftershocks:
  • The aftermath of the earthquakes, especially the powerful November 3 quake registering a magnitude of 6.4, was marked by more than 382 aftershocks.
  • It emphasized the necessity for continued vigilance and adherence to safety protocols in seismically active regions.
• Regional Safety and Ongoing Concerns:
  • The recent seismic events underscore the ongoing concern for regional safety and the need for sustained efforts in earthquake preparedness and risk reduction strategies.

Conclusion

• The statement by Earth Sciences Minister highlighted the increased seismic activity in specific regions attributed to the activation of the Almora fault.
• By emphasizing the significance of geological structures like the Almora fault and the subsequent impact on safety, the minister underscores the importance of proactive measures, guidelines, and initiatives aimed at mitigating the risks associated with earthquakes and enhancing preparedness in earthquake-prone areas.

SOURCE: https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/what-led-to-frequent-earthquakes-this-year-earth-sciences-minister-answers-2473074-2023-12-07

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recently, a joint report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) revealed a significant global deficiency in multi-hazard early warning systems.

EXPLANATION:

• Despite progress in mitigating impacts from extreme weather and climate-related crises, half of the world’s countries lack adequate systems for early warnings.

State of Early Warning Systems Worldwide

• The report, released during the UN Climate Meeting (COP28) in Dubai, highlights Africa’s commendable efforts in doubling the coverage of early warning systems.
• However, the continent still falls below the global average.
• Notably, less than half of the Least Developed Countries and a mere 40% of Small Island Developing States possess multi-hazard early warning systems.
• In Arab States, there is a glaring deficiency in risk knowledge crucial for underpinning effective early warning systems.

UN Secretary-General’s Address and Case Studies

• At a high-level event in Dubai, UN Secretary-General presented the “2023 Global Status of Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems” report to ministers and stakeholders.
• The report emphasizes India’s inadequacies in disaster risk knowledge, management, warning dissemination, and communication.
• However, it acknowledges the country’s preparedness, response capabilities, and detection and forecasting abilities.
• The report cites the flooding in Bangladesh in 2020 and the impact of Cyclone Amphan in India and West Bengal in 2019.
• It attributes mitigated impacts to improved forecasting and the activation of Early Action Protocols.

Progress and Challenges of Early Warnings for All Initiative

• The report evaluates the progress of the Early Warnings for All Initiative, designed to encompass global coverage by 2027.
• Six additional countries have implemented early warning systems, bringing the total to 101, a doubling since 2015.
• UN Secretary-General emphasizes the initiative’s potential to safeguard vulnerable communities and calls for increased support, aiming to double efforts in 2024.

International Support and Funding for Early Warning Systems

• During the report launch, Denmark, Sweden, and France pledged substantial financial support – 6 million Euros, 5 million Euros, and 8 million Euros respectively – toward strengthening early warning systems.
• This funding aims to build on the foundation laid since the initiative’s inception.
• Major Multilateral Development Banks and the Green Climate Fund also committed to scaling up investments in early warning systems.
• Additionally, countries like Maldives, Laos, and Ethiopia have formulated national action plans and coordination structures.
• Benin has improved communication strategies targeting high-risk communities.
• Fiji has fortified its flash flood warning to protect its entire population of nearly 1 million people.

Conclusion: Collaborative Efforts for Enhanced Early Warning Systems

• The report underscores the critical need for improved multi-hazard early warning systems globally.
• It highlights progress made, challenges faced, and the essential role of international cooperation and financial support.
• The commitment of nations and international organizations to fortify these systems is vital in safeguarding vulnerable communities and reducing the impacts of climate-related crises.
• The report signals a path forward for collaborative efforts to achieve comprehensive and effective early warning systems across the globe.

SOURCE: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/half-the-countries-in-world-lack-adequate-multi-hazard-early-warning-systems-report-101701629213134.html

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recently, a team of researchers has uncovered a substantial and previously unidentified mass of water in the Atlantic Ocean, marking a significant discovery in oceanography.

EXPLANATION:

• This finding challenges previous assumptions about the homogeneity of oceanic bodies and sheds light on the complexity of global water masses.

Background: Oceanic Bodies and Circulation

• Oceanic bodies possess distinct physical properties, including temperature, salinity, and chemical composition.
• Examples include the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and the well-known Gulf Stream, each influencing regional climates and marine ecosystems.
• In contrast, the Pacific and Indian Oceans were previously identified as having vast areas of distinct equatorial waters, formed by the convergence of northern and southern waters.

A Puzzling Absence in the Atlantic

• Surprisingly, while these equatorial waters were observed in the Pacific and Indian Oceans in 1942, a similar phenomenon was absent in the Atlantic.
• Given the commonalities in equatorial circulation and mixing across the three oceans, this absence puzzled scientists.

Discovery and Analysis

• The researchers scrutinized data from the Argo program, leveraging a network of autonomous instruments navigating ocean depths.
• By analyzing these datasets, the team identified a distinct body of water, termed the “Atlantic Equatorial Water.”
• This mass likely originated from the amalgamation of the South Atlantic Central Water and the North Atlantic Central Water.
• The newfound body of water spans from the Brazilian coast to the Gulf of Guinea, marking a significant extension within the Atlantic basin.

Implications and Future Research

• The identification of this new body of water offers a crucial piece in completing the puzzle of global oceanic water masses.
• Understanding its formation and dynamics holds promise for advancing knowledge about oceanic mixing processes, influencing climate models and marine life studies.
• Further research endeavors in this region aim to deepen insights into the complex interplay of currents, temperatures, and chemical compositions shaping the Atlantic Ocean’s characteristics.

Conclusion

• The revelation of the Atlantic Equatorial Water introduces a compelling avenue for exploration within oceanography, challenging previous assumptions about the uniformity of oceanic bodies.
• This discovery underscores the intricate and dynamic nature of Earth’s oceans, prompting continued research to unravel the mysteries of ocean circulation and its global implications.

SOURCE: https://www.iflscience.com/gigantic-missing-body-of-water-discovered-stretching-across-the-atlantic-ocean-71696

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Despite being recorded as the warmest decade in history, the period from 2011 to 2020 witnessed the lowest number of deaths attributed to extreme weather events, as reported by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

EXPLANATION:

• This anomaly is attributed to advancements in early warning systems, which have significantly improved due to enhanced forecasting capabilities and better disaster management practices globally.

Enhanced Early Warning Systems and Disaster Preparedness

• Notably, countries like India have seen substantial improvements in forecasting cyclone formations, allowing for timely warnings and evacuation procedures.
• These advancements in prediction have contributed to increased preparedness, particularly for populations vulnerable to such natural disasters.

Unprecedented Lack of Catastrophic Short-term Events

• A striking aspect highlighted in the report “The Global Climate 2011-2020: A Decade of Acceleration” is that, for the first time since 1950, there was not a single short-term event causing 10,000 or more deaths during the 2011-2020 decade.
• This significant change underscores the efficacy of improved early warning systems and disaster management practices.

Positive Environmental Trends: Ozone Hole Recovery and Glacial Changes

• The decade also witnessed noteworthy environmental shifts, including the visible recovery of the depleted ozone hole.
• However, glacial measurements exhibited concerning trends, with glaciers globally thinning by an average of approximately 1 meter per year during the period.
• The report highlights that Greenland and Antarctica collectively lost 38% more ice compared to the 2001-2010 decade.
• Additionally, the report references the 2021 Uttarakhand rock-avalanche, triggered by a breach in the Nanda Devi glacier in the Himalayas, underlining the continued vulnerability of certain regions to climate-induced events.

Impact of Human-Caused Climate Change

• Human-induced climate change remains a key factor amplifying the risks associated with extreme heat events.
• Heatwaves accounted for the highest number of human casualties during the decade, while tropical cyclones resulted in the most significant economic damages.

Climate Finance and Future Goals

• The report highlights a notable increase in both public and private climate finance during the 2011-2020 period.
• However, it emphasizes the necessity of a substantial increase, nearly sevenfold, by the end of the current decade to meet climate objectives.
• This includes crucial goals such as limiting global temperature rise to less than 1.5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century.

Conclusion: Climate Progress and Urgent Calls for Action

• The analysis of the 2011-2020 decade demonstrates encouraging strides in early warning systems and disaster management, leading to reduced casualties despite escalating climate challenges.
• However, the report underscores the critical need for intensified efforts in climate finance and mitigation strategies to address the escalating risks posed by human-induced climate change.
• Meeting these challenges is essential to achieving global climate objectives and averting further environmental crises in the future.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/2023-12-06/th_chennai/articleGELC3VAG2-5091755.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: A recent research by geologists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), published in Nature Geoscience, highlights the significance of smectite, a clay mineral found in oceanic crust, in the process of capturing and storing carbon.

EXPLANATION:

• This discovery holds the potential to significantly impact the planet’s climate by contributing to Earth’s cooling mechanisms.

Smectite’s Carbon-Sequestering Abilities

• The accordion-like structure of smectite, discovered in the intricate layers of the seafloor, facilitates the trapping of organic carbon.
• This natural process occurs during tectonic activities, where smectite forms as a result of the collision between oceanic and continental plates.
• The mineral, once formed, descends back to the ocean bed, capturing remnants of deceased organisms within its microscopic folds, effectively preventing the release of carbon back into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide.

Historical Context and Geological Findings

• MIT researchers linked smectite production to major tectonic events over the past 500 million years.
• They suggest that the formation of significant quantities of these clays potentially contributed to the cooling of the Earth and even induced ice ages.
• This groundbreaking study establishes a direct correlation between plate tectonics and the onset of ice ages, attributing this relationship to the creation of carbon-sequestering smectite.

Scientific Methodology and Confirmation of Hypotheses

• The research team investigated geological records to analyze weathering patterns of magmatic minerals and the resulting types of clays.
• Using simulations of the Earth’s carbon cycle, they assessed the impact of various minerals.
• Smectite emerged as not only a product of tropical tectonics but also an exceptionally efficient captor of organic carbon.
• Despite challenges in directly measuring ancient smectite, the presence of trace elements such as nickel and chromium in sedimentary deposits provided crucial evidence supporting the theory.
• These elements, associated with rocks producing smectite, acted as identifiable “fingerprints.”

Quantifying Smectite’s Impact on Climate

• Although smectite’s contribution to carbon preservation seems small—less than one-tenth of a percent—it holds significant implications over geological timescales.
• The researchers estimate that this minor percentage played a pivotal role in triggering the planet’s major ice ages.

Implications and Future Applications

• Beyond understanding Earth’s climatic history, this discovery introduces possibilities for climate change mitigation strategies.
• Smectite could potentially be utilized to stabilize carbon-rich permafrost regions threatened by global warming, offering a natural solution to address human-induced climate challenges.

Conclusion: Harnessing Natural Processes for Climate Mitigation

• The MIT team’s findings emphasize the importance of comprehensively understanding the global carbon cycle.
• Furthermore, the discovery of smectite’s impact on climate paves the way for exploring and leveraging natural processes to mitigate human-induced climate change, presenting a promising avenue in the fight against the escalating climate crisis.

SOURCE: https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/mysterious-mineral-found-in-ocean-could-keep-earth-cool-even-induce-ice-age-2472168-2023-12-05

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC), operating under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), convened in Nairobi to pursue the creation of an international legally binding treaty to combat plastic pollution worldwide.

EXPLANATION:

• The third round of negotiations, INC-3, aimed to refine the ‘zero draft’ text and establish a comprehensive global plastics treaty by 2025, as mandated by UNEA Resolution 5/14.

Outcome of INC-3: Evaluating the ‘Zero Draft’

• The ‘zero draft’ initially proposed robust measures for a binding treaty to address plastic pollution.
• However, during negotiations, member states diluted core obligations, particularly regarding high-impact elements like primary polymer production, chemical concerns, problematic plastics, trade regulations, and financial mechanisms.

Controversial Negotiations: Divergent Perspectives

• Member states debated the treaty’s objective and scope, with consensus on ending plastic pollution and safeguarding human health and the environment.
• Nevertheless, a group of nations, including Saudi Arabia, Russia, China, Iran, and Gulf Cooperation Council members, advocated for a clause favouring sustainable development to protect economic interests.
• The reduction of primary polymer production faced opposition due to industry concerns.
• Lobbying from the fossil fuels and chemicals sector significantly influenced discussions, leading to debates about the treaty’s scope regarding plastic production.

Disagreements on Lifecycle Assessment and Key Provisions

• Disagreements emerged regarding the starting point of the plastic lifecycle, with some countries arguing for product design as the initiation stage to exclude production from the treaty’s scope.
• Additionally, objections were raised against provisions eliminating harmful compounds and polymers, hindering progress in combating plastic pollution.

Financial Control and Implications

• Financial mechanisms within the treaty, such as imposing pollution fees on plastic producers and reducing investments in environmentally detrimental technologies, faced opposition from certain countries.
• Implementing these measures could have required nations to curb fossil-fuel subsidies and investments in unsustainable practices, yet they were obstructed by opposing states.

Plastic Trade Regulations: Sovereignty vs. Restrictions

• Debates arose on regulating the trade of polymers, chemicals, plastic products, and waste.
• Concerns about infringing on national sovereignty clashed with efforts to strengthen regulations and align with the objectives of the Basel Convention.
• Some countries misconstrued WTO rules to resist trade restrictions, impeding progress.

Challenges with Rules of Procedure and Decision-Making

• INC-3 faced challenges finalizing rules of procedure, hindering effective decision-making.
• Disagreements persisted regarding the voting process, causing delays and impeding consensus-based decisions.
• This impacted negotiations and prevented significant advancements during the meeting.

Impact of Stalling and Resistance

• INC-3 encountered delays and blockades, resulting in an expanded, contentious draft text and a lack of consensus on intersessional work.
• The refusal to adopt a mandate for drafting the treaty’s first version underscored industry influence and identified states opposing a robust, binding treaty against plastic pollution.

Conclusion

• INC-3’s proceedings revealed divisions among member states, industry influence, and challenges in establishing a comprehensive global plastics treaty.
• Despite initial ambitions, divergent interests, resistance to strong provisions, and delays in decision-making have hindered progress toward an effective, binding framework to combat plastic pollution.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/inc-3-meeting-end-plastic-pollution-treaty-industry-pressure-explained/article67607097.ece