Analyze critically the difficulties associated with protecting wildlife. (125 Words) [UPPSC 2020]
Model Answer Introduction Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies are essential for evaluating the potential environmental impacts of proposed projects, including coal-fired thermal plants located at coal pitheads. These assessments are crucial for identifying and mitigating the significant enRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies are essential for evaluating the potential environmental impacts of proposed projects, including coal-fired thermal plants located at coal pitheads. These assessments are crucial for identifying and mitigating the significant environmental impacts associated with such facilities.
Environmental Impacts
Air Pollution
Coal-fired thermal plants are major contributors to air pollution in India. They emit substantial quantities of carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which lead to the formation of smog, acid rain, and various respiratory illnesses. In 2022, CO2 emissions from burning coal accounted for about 55% of total CO2 emissions from the electric power sector in the U.S., highlighting the global relevance of this issue.
Water Pollution
These plants require large volumes of water for cooling, resulting in the discharge of heated water into nearby water bodies. This thermal pollution can adversely affect aquatic ecosystems and degrade water quality. Additionally, the discharge of fly ash and other pollutants can contaminate rivers and lakes, posing risks to both aquatic life and human health.
Soil Contamination
Coal ash, a byproduct of coal combustion, contains heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, and lead. These contaminants can leach into the soil and groundwater, posing serious health risks to humans, animals, and plants, and disrupting local ecosystems. For instance, the proposed 1320 MW Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant in Uttar Pradesh has raised concerns regarding its potential environmental impact, prompting EIA studies to assess its effects on the environment and local communities.
Conclusion
Coal-fired thermal plants at coal pitheads have profound environmental impacts, including air and water pollution and soil contamination. EIA studies are vital for identifying these impacts and developing effective mitigation strategies. It is imperative that these assessments are conducted independently and that mitigation measures are strictly enforced to minimize adverse environmental effects.
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Challenges of Wildlife Conservation 1. Habitat Destruction: Deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization lead to significant loss of natural habitats. For instance, the degradation of the Sundarbans mangroves threatens the Bengal tiger population. 2. Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: PoachiRead more
Challenges of Wildlife Conservation
1. Habitat Destruction: Deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization lead to significant loss of natural habitats. For instance, the degradation of the Sundarbans mangroves threatens the Bengal tiger population.
2. Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: Poaching and the illegal wildlife trade threaten species like the rhino and elephant. The black market for wildlife products, such as ivory, exacerbates the problem.
3. Human-Wildlife Conflict: Encroachment and agricultural expansion often result in conflict between humans and wildlife. For example, elephant raids in Kerala and Assam cause property damage and loss of life.
4. Climate Change: Climate change impacts ecosystems and species distribution. For example, polar bears face challenges due to melting sea ice in the Arctic.
5. Insufficient Funding and Management: Many conservation efforts suffer from limited funding and ineffective management. The Project Tiger initiative, despite its success, still faces funding and implementation issues.
In summary, effective wildlife conservation requires addressing these multifaceted challenges through integrated management, community involvement, and global cooperation.
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