Climate change refers to long-term alterations in global or regional climate patterns, particularly those arising from increased levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) due to human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrialization. The impacts are already visible through rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, glacial retreat, and sea-level rise. Impacts of Climate Change on Agriculture…
Month: May 2025
Discuss the importance of environmental education in promoting sustainable development.
Environmental education (EE) is the process of recognizing values and clarifying concepts to develop skills and attitudes necessary to understand and appreciate the interrelationship between human beings, their culture, and their biophysical surroundings. It builds awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and commitment to work towards solutions for environmental challenges. Importance in Sustainable Development: Examples of Environmental Education…
What is biodiversity? Why is biodiversity conservation important for sustainable development?
Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of all forms of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity within species (genetic diversity), between species (species diversity), and among ecosystems (ecosystem diversity). It includes microorganisms, plants, animals, and the ecological complexes they are part of. Biodiversity forms the foundation of the Earth’s life-support systems and is vital…
Highlight the role played by NGOs in the people’s movement against large dams and river valley projects in India.
Large dams and river valley projects in India have long sparked controversy due to displacement of people, ecological destruction, and cost-benefit imbalances. NGOs have played a pivotal role in mobilizing public opinion, advocating for rights, and promoting sustainable alternatives. Key Contributions of NGOs: Example: Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) Other Examples: These NGOs have reshaped the…
What is sea level rise? Why is it difficult to predict? State the impacts of sea level rise.
Sea level rise refers to the increase in the average global sea level due to two main processes related to global warming: Since the late 19th century, sea levels have risen by over 20 cm globally, and the rate is accelerating. According to the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report (2021), global mean sea levels could rise…
Discuss the importance of community-led initiatives for sustainable development. Highlight the roles of Panchayati Raj Institutions and NGOs.
Community-led initiatives are grassroots-level efforts that involve local people in planning, implementing, and monitoring development activities. These initiatives are critical to sustainable development because they: Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs): The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act institutionalized PRIs as decentralized governance systems in India. Their role in sustainable development includes: Example: In Kerala, PRIs played…
Explain globalization and state its main components. How has globalization influenced Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)?
Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of the world’s economies, cultures, populations, and political systems. It is driven by advancements in communication, transportation, and liberalized trade and investment policies. Globalization enables the flow of goods, services, information, people, and capital across national boundaries, thereby integrating regional and national economies into a global economy….
Discuss the ecosystem approach in the study of sustainable development.
The ecosystem approach is a strategy for the integrated management of land, water, and living resources that promotes conservation and sustainable use in an equitable way. It recognizes humans as an integral part of ecosystems and aims to balance ecological health with human well-being. This approach is advocated by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)…
What is sustainable livelihood? Briefly explain different types of capital assets for achieving sustainable livelihood.
A sustainable livelihood is a means of living that can cope with and recover from stress and shocks, maintain or enhance its capabilities and assets, and provide sustainable opportunities for the next generation without undermining the natural resource base. According to the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID), achieving a sustainable livelihood depends on access…
What is inter-generational equity? Why is it integral to international law and the Climate Change Convention (CCC)?
Inter-generational equity is the principle that present generations have a responsibility to preserve natural resources and environmental quality for future generations. It is based on the ethical standpoint that all generations are entitled to a healthy planet and equitable access to its resources. This concept is a cornerstone of sustainable development. It emphasizes long-term thinking…
The origins of the term Sustainable Development.
Sustainability refers to the capacity to endure and maintain processes or systems over time without exhausting resources or harming the environment. In an environmental context, it means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability encompasses ecological balance, economic viability, and social equity. The…
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES)
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) is a multilateral treaty established in 1973 to ensure that international trade in wild animal and plant species does not threaten their survival. CITES was created in response to growing concerns about the over-exploitation of species through illegal or unsustainable trade…