Oil pollution: what is it? What effects does it have on the marine environment? How exactly can oil pollution hurt an Indian nation like this? (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
Deforestation significantly contributes to climate change by: *Contributions to Global Warming:* 1. Carbon Emissions: Trees absorb carbon dioxide; deforestation releases stored carbon. 2. Loss of Carbon Sink: Forests absorb 2.4 billion metric tons of CO2 annually. 3. Disruption of Water Cycle: ForesRead more
Deforestation significantly contributes to climate change by:
*Contributions to Global Warming:*
1. Carbon Emissions: Trees absorb carbon dioxide; deforestation releases stored carbon.
2. Loss of Carbon Sink: Forests absorb 2.4 billion metric tons of CO2 annually.
3. Disruption of Water Cycle: Forests regulate water, influencing precipitation and evaporation.
4. Soil Degradation: Trees maintain soil health; deforestation leads to erosion.
*Impact on Climate Change:*
1. 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Accelerated global warming.
3. Changes in precipitation patterns.
4. Increased risk of natural disasters.
*Measures to Address Deforestation:*
*Short-term:*
1. Conservation efforts (protected areas).
2. Sustainable forest management.
3. Certification schemes (e.g., FSC).
4. Community-led forest restoration.
*Long-term:*
1. Reforestation and afforestation.
2. Agroforestry practices.
3. Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES).
4. Policy reforms (e.g., REDD+).
*International Initiatives:*
1. United Nations’ REDD+ Program.
2. Forest Carbon Partnership Facility.
3. Global Forest Restoration Bond.
4. Trillion Trees Campaign.
*National and Local Efforts:*
1. Implement sustainable land-use policies.
2. Engage local communities in forest management.
3. Monitor deforestation through satellite imaging.
4. Promote eco-tourism and forest-friendly products.
*Individual Actions:*
1. Support certified sustainable products.
2. Reduce paper and wood consumption.
3. Donate to reforestation efforts.
4. Spread awareness about deforestation.
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Model Answer Introduction Oil pollution is the introduction of oil substances, primarily from human activities, into oceans and coastal waters. This pollution has severe and long-lasting effects on the marine ecosystem, affecting not only wildlife but also human communities reliant on these ecosysteRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Oil pollution is the introduction of oil substances, primarily from human activities, into oceans and coastal waters. This pollution has severe and long-lasting effects on the marine ecosystem, affecting not only wildlife but also human communities reliant on these ecosystems.
Sources of Oil Pollution
Natural Sources
Anthropogenic Sources
Impacts on the Marine Ecosystem
Specific Impacts on India
Conclusion
To protect its rich marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of coastal communities, India must implement stringent measures against oil pollution. This includes regulatory frameworks, technological innovations, and community engagement strategies to mitigate the devastating impacts of oil spills.
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