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Discuss the challenges in balancing the needs of development and conservation in the context of forest management.
Challenges in Balancing the Needs of Development and Conservation in Forest Management 1. Conflicting Objectives a. Economic Development vs. Environmental Protection Resource Exploitation: Forests are often cleared for economic development projects such as mining, agriculture, and urbanization. ThisRead more
Challenges in Balancing the Needs of Development and Conservation in Forest Management
1. Conflicting Objectives
a. Economic Development vs. Environmental Protection
b. Livelihood Needs vs. Conservation Goals
2. Policy and Regulatory Challenges
a. Fragmented Policies
b. Enforcement and Compliance
3. Environmental Impact of Development Projects
a. Habitat Loss and Biodiversity
b. Climate Change
4. Social and Economic Implications
a. Displacement and Resettlement
b. Equity and Inclusion
5. Strategies to Address the Challenges
a. Integrated Planning
b. Community Participation
c. Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks
d. Promoting Sustainable Development
6. Conclusion
Balancing the needs of development and conservation in forest management presents significant challenges. Conflicting objectives, policy fragmentation, environmental impacts, and social implications all complicate efforts to achieve this balance. However, through integrated planning, community participation, strengthened legal frameworks, and sustainable development practices, it is possible to address these challenges effectively. Recent examples highlight both the progress and the ongoing issues in managing this delicate balance, underscoring the need for continued innovation and collaboration.
See lessEvaluate the efficacy of the National Green Tribunal in addressing environmental issues and promoting conservation.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in India in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. Its primary objective is to provide a specialized forum for the expeditious disposal of environmental disputes and to ensure the enforcement of environmental laws. Here’s an evaluation ofRead more
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in India in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. Its primary objective is to provide a specialized forum for the expeditious disposal of environmental disputes and to ensure the enforcement of environmental laws. Here’s an evaluation of the NGT’s efficacy in addressing environmental issues and promoting conservation:
**1. Role and Functions of the NGT
**a. Judicial Functions
**b. Regulatory Functions
**2. Achievements and Impact
**a. Efficient Dispute Resolution
Examples:
**b. Environmental Protection Orders
Examples:
**3. Challenges and Limitations
**a. Implementation and Compliance
**b. Resource Constraints
**c. Legal and Jurisdictional Challenges
**d. Public Perception and Access
**4. Recent Developments and Improvements
**a. Strengthening of Mechanisms
**b. Expanding Jurisdiction
**c. Public Outreach and Education
**5. Conclusion
The National Green Tribunal has played a significant role in addressing environmental issues and promoting conservation in India. Its specialized nature, expedited handling of cases, and enforcement of environmental laws have contributed to improved environmental protection. However, challenges related to implementation, resource constraints, legal complexities, and public perception need to be addressed to enhance its efficacy further.
The Tribunal’s continued effectiveness will depend on its ability to address these challenges, improve coordination with authorities, and engage with communities and stakeholders to ensure meaningful and lasting environmental protection.
See lessAnalyze the role of technology and citizen science in enhancing the monitoring and protection of wildlife in India.
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Technology and citizen science play pivotal roles in enhancing the monitoring and protection of wildlife in India. These tools and approaches improve data collection, increase public engagement, and support conservation efforts in diverse ways. Here’s an analysis of their roles:
1. Role of Technology in Wildlife Monitoring and Protection
**a. Remote Sensing and Satellite Technology
Overview:
Impact:
Examples:
**b. Camera Traps and Automated Monitoring
Overview:
Impact:
Examples:
**c. Drones and Aerial Surveillance
Overview:
Impact:
Examples:
2. Role of Citizen Science in Wildlife Monitoring and Protection
**a. Public Engagement and Data Collection
Overview:
Impact:
Examples:
**b. Local Knowledge and Traditional Practices
Overview:
Impact:
Examples:
**c. Education and Advocacy
Overview:
Impact:
Examples:
3. Challenges and Opportunities
**a. Challenges
**b. Opportunities
Conclusion
Technology and citizen science are transforming wildlife monitoring and protection in India by improving data collection, increasing public engagement, and enhancing conservation efforts. While challenges exist, the integration of these approaches offers significant opportunities to advance wildlife conservation, support sustainable practices, and foster a collaborative approach to protecting India’s rich biodiversity. By leveraging technology and harnessing the power of citizen science, India can enhance its efforts to safeguard wildlife and ecosystems for future generations.
See lessAssess the effectiveness of payment for ecosystem services (PES) schemes in incentivizing conservation efforts in India.
Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes are designed to provide financial incentives to landowners or communities for managing their land in ways that protect or enhance ecosystem services. In India, these schemes aim to address environmental degradation, conserve biodiversity, and support sustRead more
Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes are designed to provide financial incentives to landowners or communities for managing their land in ways that protect or enhance ecosystem services. In India, these schemes aim to address environmental degradation, conserve biodiversity, and support sustainable land use practices. Here’s an assessment of the effectiveness of PES schemes in incentivizing conservation efforts in India:
1. Overview of PES Schemes in India
Concept:
Examples:
2. Effectiveness of PES Schemes
Positive Outcomes:
Challenges:
3. Case Studies and Success Stories
1. Western Ghats:
2. Satpura Landscape Program:
3. Agastya Nature Foundation (Karnataka):
4. Strategies for Improvement
1. Scaling Up:
2. Secure Funding:
3. Simplify Implementation:
4. Strengthen Monitoring and Evaluation:
Conclusion
PES schemes in India have shown promise in incentivizing conservation efforts, improving community involvement, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. However, their effectiveness is currently limited by challenges related to scale, funding, implementation complexity, and monitoring. By addressing these challenges and implementing strategies for improvement, PES schemes can become a more effective tool for conservation and sustainable development in India.
See lessCritically examine the impact of infrastructure development projects on fragile ecosystems and suggest mitigation strategies.
Impact of Infrastructure Development Projects on Fragile Ecosystems and Mitigation Strategies Infrastructure development projects such as roads, dams, and urban expansion are essential for economic growth but can have significant impacts on fragile ecosystems. These impacts can disrupt biodiversity,Read more
Impact of Infrastructure Development Projects on Fragile Ecosystems and Mitigation Strategies
Infrastructure development projects such as roads, dams, and urban expansion are essential for economic growth but can have significant impacts on fragile ecosystems. These impacts can disrupt biodiversity, alter natural habitats, and affect local communities. A critical examination of these effects, along with mitigation strategies, is crucial for balancing development with environmental conservation. Below, we analyze the impacts and propose strategies to mitigate them, supported by recent examples.
1. Disruption of Biodiversity and Habitat Loss
Infrastructure projects often lead to habitat loss and biodiversity disruption as natural areas are cleared or altered.
Example: The Western Ghats in India: The construction of highways and roads in the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, has led to habitat fragmentation. This fragmentation affects wildlife such as the Nilgiri tahr and Asian elephant, which depend on continuous forest cover for their survival.
Example: The Amazon Rainforest: Large-scale infrastructure projects, including highways and dams, have led to significant deforestation in the Amazon. The Trans-Amazonian Highway, for instance, has accelerated habitat loss and biodiversity decline in one of the world’s most important ecosystems.
2. Alteration of Water Resources and Soil Erosion
Infrastructure development can alter water resources and lead to soil erosion, affecting local ecosystems and communities.
Example: The Three Gorges Dam in China: The construction of the Three Gorges Dam has significantly altered the Yangtze River’s flow, impacting aquatic ecosystems and leading to soil erosion and sedimentation issues downstream. This has affected species such as the Yangtze giant softshell turtle and disrupted local fisheries.
Example: The Narmada Dam in India: The Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River has caused significant displacement of local communities and altered river flow, impacting the surrounding ecosystems. The project has led to concerns about reduced water availability and changes in local flora and fauna.
3. Pollution and Environmental Degradation
Infrastructure projects often lead to pollution and environmental degradation, impacting air, water, and soil quality.
Example: The Delhi Metro Project: While the Delhi Metro has improved urban transportation, its construction led to air and soil pollution in several areas. The excavation and construction activities caused significant dust and particulate matter pollution, impacting local air quality.
Example: The Chhattisgarh Coal Mining Projects: The expansion of coal mining in Chhattisgarh has led to pollution and environmental degradation. Mining activities have resulted in deforestation, water contamination, and adverse health effects on nearby communities.
4. Mitigation Strategies
To address the adverse impacts of infrastructure development on fragile ecosystems, several mitigation strategies can be employed:
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): Comprehensive EIAs should be conducted before project approval to identify potential environmental impacts and develop mitigation measures. For example, the EIA for the Posco Steel Plant in Odisha was revised multiple times to address environmental and social concerns raised by various stakeholders.
Wildlife Corridors and Protected Areas: Establishing wildlife corridors and expanding protected areas can help mitigate habitat fragmentation. The Corbett-Palain Corridor in Uttarakhand is an example where efforts have been made to create safe passageways for wildlife affected by infrastructure development.
Sustainable Design and Construction Practices: Implementing sustainable design and construction practices can reduce the environmental footprint of infrastructure projects. The Green Building Movement in India promotes sustainable architecture and construction practices, including the use of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs.
Community Involvement and Compensation: Engaging local communities in the planning process and providing adequate compensation can help address displacement and socio-environmental impacts. The Community Forest Rights Act (2006) in India provides a framework for recognizing and compensating local communities affected by development projects.
Restoration and Rehabilitation: Post-project restoration and rehabilitation efforts can help restore degraded ecosystems. The Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary Restoration Project in Gujarat focuses on rehabilitating and restoring the natural habitats affected by previous development activities.
Conclusion
See lessInfrastructure development projects, while crucial for economic progress, can have significant impacts on fragile ecosystems. Addressing these impacts requires a multifaceted approach that includes thorough environmental assessments, sustainable practices, and active community engagement. By implementing effective mitigation strategies, it is possible to balance development with ecological preservation and ensure that infrastructure projects contribute positively to both human and environmental well-being.
How can traditional ecological knowledge be integrated with modern conservation practices for better outcomes?
Integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge with Modern Conservation Practices for Better Outcomes Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) refers to the deep understanding of ecosystems developed by indigenous and local communities over generations. Integrating TEK with modern conservation practicesRead more
Integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge with Modern Conservation Practices for Better Outcomes
Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) refers to the deep understanding of ecosystems developed by indigenous and local communities over generations. Integrating TEK with modern conservation practices can lead to more effective and culturally sensitive outcomes. This integration enhances both environmental sustainability and community well-being. Below, we explore how TEK can be harmonized with contemporary approaches to conservation, using recent examples to illustrate successful integration.
1. Understanding Ecosystem Dynamics
TEK offers valuable insights into ecosystem dynamics, including species behavior, habitat changes, and resource management practices that have evolved over centuries.
Example: The Indigenous Fire Management Practices in Australia: Indigenous Australians have long used controlled burning to manage landscapes and prevent larger wildfires. Recent collaborations between Aboriginal communities and conservation agencies, such as those in the Northern Territory’s Savanna Fire Management Program, have integrated these traditional practices with modern fire management strategies. This approach has led to more effective wildfire management and habitat restoration.
Example: The Maori’s Role in New Zealand: The Maori’s traditional knowledge of fishery management, including seasonal fishing practices and marine protected areas, has been integrated into New Zealand’s modern marine conservation efforts. The Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve benefits from this traditional knowledge, enhancing both marine biodiversity and sustainable fishing practices.
2. Enhancing Biodiversity Conservation
TEK can complement biodiversity conservation efforts by providing context-specific knowledge about species and habitats that modern science might overlook.
Example: The Use of TEK in the Amazon Rainforest: In the Amazon, indigenous communities use their knowledge to manage and protect biodiversity-rich areas. The Amazon Conservation Team (ACT) collaborates with indigenous groups to monitor and protect medicinal plants and wildlife, integrating TEK with scientific research to enhance conservation outcomes.
Example: The Man and Biosphere Programme in the Himalayas: In the Himalayas, local communities’ knowledge about medicinal plants and wildlife behavior is incorporated into conservation strategies. The Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve in Sikkim, India, utilizes traditional knowledge to manage and protect its diverse ecosystems.
3. Promoting Sustainable Resource Management
TEK often includes sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over time to ensure long-term resource availability and ecosystem health.
Example: Community-Based Forest Management in Nepal: The Community Forest User Groups (CFUGs) in Nepal leverage traditional knowledge to manage forest resources sustainably. These groups, which are based on local practices and customs, have been successful in reducing deforestation and improving forest health.
Example: The Nomadic Grazing Practices in Mongolia: Traditional nomadic herding practices in Mongolia involve rotational grazing, which helps maintain grassland health and prevent overgrazing. Modern conservation projects, such as the Great Gobi Strictly Protected Area, integrate these traditional practices with scientific research to promote sustainable land management.
4. Strengthening Local and Indigenous Rights
Integrating TEK also involves recognizing and respecting local and indigenous rights, which can foster greater community engagement and ownership in conservation projects.
Example: The Rights-Based Approach in Canada: In Canada, the Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCA) initiative recognizes and incorporates indigenous land management practices. This approach not only protects biodiversity but also respects and upholds the rights of Indigenous communities.
Example: The Voluntary Guidelines for the Governance of Tenure: These guidelines, developed by the FAO, include principles that support the integration of traditional knowledge and respect for indigenous land rights in conservation efforts. They have been used to guide conservation projects in various regions, such as the Philippines, where indigenous communities are involved in forest conservation.
5. Overcoming Challenges in Integration
Despite its benefits, integrating TEK with modern conservation practices can face challenges such as knowledge transmission, power dynamics, and cultural sensitivity.
Challenge of Knowledge Transmission: Ensuring that traditional knowledge is passed down accurately and effectively to younger generations can be difficult. Collaborative platforms and educational programs can help address this issue.
Power Dynamics and Equity: Balancing power dynamics between indigenous communities and external conservation organizations is crucial. Ensuring that indigenous voices are heard and respected in decision-making processes can mitigate this challenge.
Cultural Sensitivity: Conservation efforts must be culturally sensitive and respectful of local traditions and values. Projects should engage with local communities in a manner that honors their cultural heritage and knowledge.
Conclusion
See lessIntegrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) with modern conservation practices offers a promising path towards more effective and sustainable conservation outcomes. By combining the deep-rooted understanding of ecosystems provided by TEK with contemporary scientific methods, conservation efforts can benefit from holistic, culturally informed approaches. Successful integration requires mutual respect, collaborative partnerships, and an acknowledgment of the valuable contributions that traditional knowledge brings to modern conservation challenges.
Evaluate the contribution of ecotourism in promoting sustainable livelihoods and conservation in biodiversity hotspots.
Contribution of Ecotourism in Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods and Conservation in Biodiversity Hotspots Ecotourism has emerged as a significant tool for promoting sustainable livelihoods and conservation in biodiversity hotspots. By aligning economic incentives with conservation goals, ecotourismRead more
Contribution of Ecotourism in Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods and Conservation in Biodiversity Hotspots
Ecotourism has emerged as a significant tool for promoting sustainable livelihoods and conservation in biodiversity hotspots. By aligning economic incentives with conservation goals, ecotourism aims to benefit local communities while protecting natural environments. This evaluation highlights the contributions and challenges associated with ecotourism in key biodiversity hotspots, supported by recent examples.
1. Economic Benefits to Local Communities
Ecotourism can provide economic benefits to local communities by creating jobs, generating income, and supporting local businesses. This economic incentive encourages communities to participate in and support conservation efforts.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Ecotourism in the Maasai Mara has significantly benefited local Maasai communities. Revenue from eco-lodges and guided tours has created jobs and supported community development projects, such as schools and healthcare facilities. This has fostered a positive relationship between the local population and wildlife conservation efforts.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, India: In Kerala’s Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, ecotourism has generated employment opportunities for local people through roles such as wildlife guides and hospitality staff. The sanctuary’s “Periyar Tiger Reserve Ecotourism Project” has contributed to both livelihood enhancement and wildlife conservation.
2. Conservation of Biodiversity
Ecotourism can promote biodiversity conservation by providing financial resources and raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.
The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: The Galápagos Islands have become a model for ecotourism, with stringent visitor regulations and conservation programs funded by tourism revenues. This approach has helped protect unique species such as the Galápagos tortoise and marine iguanas, while also supporting local conservation initiatives.
Sundarbans National Park, India: In the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ecotourism has played a role in protecting the Bengal tiger habitat. Tourism revenue supports anti-poaching measures and habitat restoration projects, contributing to the preservation of this critical ecosystem.
3. Promoting Sustainable Practices
Ecotourism encourages sustainable practices by promoting low-impact travel, conservation education, and responsible behavior among tourists.
Costa Rica’s Ecotourism Model: Costa Rica has become a leader in ecotourism by integrating sustainability into its tourism strategy. The country’s eco-lodges and conservation programs are designed to minimize environmental impact and educate tourists about local ecosystems. This model has been successful in protecting diverse habitats while enhancing local livelihoods.
Dachigam National Park, India: In Jammu & Kashmir, Dachigam National Park’s ecotourism initiatives include conservation awareness programs and sustainable tourism practices. The park’s focus on minimal environmental impact and visitor education helps protect the critically endangered Hangul deer and its habitat.
4. Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its benefits, ecotourism faces several challenges and criticisms that can undermine its effectiveness in promoting sustainable livelihoods and conservation.
Overtourism and Environmental Degradation: In some hotspots, excessive tourism can lead to environmental degradation. For example, Mount Everest has experienced issues with waste management and environmental impact due to high tourist footfall, highlighting the need for better management practices.
Economic Disparities: The economic benefits of ecotourism are not always equitably distributed. In certain regions, profits may be concentrated in the hands of a few, leaving local communities with minimal benefits. This disparity is evident in some African safari lodges where local communities see limited economic returns.
5. Future Directions
To enhance the contribution of ecotourism, several strategic directions can be pursued:
Community Involvement: Ensuring that local communities are actively involved in ecotourism planning and management can enhance both conservation outcomes and economic benefits. Participatory approaches can help align ecotourism with community needs and conservation goals.
Regulation and Management: Implementing and enforcing regulations to manage tourist numbers and minimize environmental impact is crucial. This includes setting capacity limits and promoting low-impact tourism practices to prevent overexploitation.
Education and Awareness: Promoting environmental education and awareness among tourists can foster responsible behavior and support conservation efforts. Programs that highlight the importance of biodiversity and sustainable practices can enhance the overall impact of ecotourism.
Conclusion
See lessEcotourism plays a significant role in promoting sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity conservation in hotspots around the world. While it offers valuable economic benefits and supports conservation efforts, challenges such as environmental degradation and uneven economic distribution must be addressed. By focusing on community involvement, effective management, and educational initiatives, ecotourism can further contribute to both conservation and sustainable development goals.
Analyze the effectiveness of legal frameworks in India for the protection of endangered species.
Effectiveness of Legal Frameworks in India for the Protection of Endangered Species India has established a range of legal frameworks aimed at the protection of endangered species. These frameworks are critical for biodiversity conservation but face several challenges in effectiveness. Below, we anaRead more
Effectiveness of Legal Frameworks in India for the Protection of Endangered Species
India has established a range of legal frameworks aimed at the protection of endangered species. These frameworks are critical for biodiversity conservation but face several challenges in effectiveness. Below, we analyze the effectiveness of these laws and their implementation, supported by recent examples.
1. The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is the cornerstone of India’s legal framework for wildlife conservation. It provides for the establishment of protected areas, regulates hunting, and offers protection to various species.
Protected Areas and Sanctuaries: The Act designates national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation reserves, which are critical for habitat protection. For example, the Kaziranga National Park in Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its successful rhino conservation program due to the protection offered under this Act.
Challenges: Despite its provisions, enforcement remains a challenge due to issues like inadequate staff, limited resources, and local poaching. The Northeast India Rhino Poaching Crisis (2021-2022) highlighted ongoing poaching threats despite legal protections.
2. The National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP)
The National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP) provides a strategic framework for wildlife conservation and management. The current plan, covering the period from 2017 to 2031, emphasizes the protection of endangered species and their habitats.
Conservation Strategies: The NWAP outlines comprehensive strategies including habitat restoration, combating illegal wildlife trade, and engaging local communities. The Project Tiger initiative under the NWAP has helped in the recovery of tiger populations, as seen in Ranthambore National Park, which has experienced a notable increase in tiger numbers.
Implementation Gaps: Effective implementation is often hampered by bureaucratic delays and lack of coordination among various stakeholders. The Project Elephant also faces challenges, such as human-elephant conflicts and habitat fragmentation, impacting its success.
3. The Biological Diversity Act, 2002
The Biological Diversity Act, 2002 aims to protect biological diversity and regulate the access to biological resources. It also establishes the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) to oversee the conservation of biodiversity.
Access and Benefit Sharing: The Act includes provisions for access and benefit-sharing related to biological resources, which can aid conservation efforts. For instance, the Act supports the protection of traditional knowledge and practices that contribute to conservation.
Enforcement Issues: Despite its objectives, the Act has faced criticism regarding its enforcement. Instances of biopiracy, where companies exploit genetic resources without appropriate consent, reflect gaps in implementation.
4. The Forest Conservation Act, 1980
The Forest Conservation Act, 1980 regulates the diversion of forest land for non-forest use, aiming to protect forested areas which are critical for wildlife habitats.
Impact on Wildlife Habitats: This Act has played a significant role in preventing the conversion of forest land, thus protecting the habitats of many endangered species. For example, it has helped in the conservation of the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot.
Challenges: Encroachment and deforestation continue despite legal provisions. The Kashmir Valley Deforestation Issues (2022) illustrate ongoing conflicts between development projects and forest conservation.
5. Recent Amendments and Initiatives
Recent legislative and policy measures have aimed to strengthen wildlife protection efforts:
Amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act (2022): The recent amendments include stricter penalties for wildlife crimes and provisions for the protection of additional species. However, effective enforcement remains a challenge.
The “India State of Forest Report 2021”: This report highlights progress in forest cover and conservation efforts but also underscores the need for enhanced measures to address emerging threats to endangered species.
Conclusion
See lessIndia’s legal frameworks for protecting endangered species, including the Wildlife Protection Act, NWAP, Biological Diversity Act, and Forest Conservation Act, provide a robust foundation for conservation efforts. However, their effectiveness is often compromised by challenges such as inadequate enforcement, resource constraints, and habitat conflicts. Strengthening implementation, improving coordination among stakeholders, and addressing emerging threats are crucial for enhancing the protection of endangered species in India.
Highlight the ecosystem services provided by wetlands. Also, explain the causes behind wetland loss in India.
A wetland is a distinct ecosystem that is flooded by water, either permanently or seasonally, where oxygen-free processes prevail. The primary factor that distinguishes wetlands from other landforms or water bodies is the characteristic vegetation of aquatic plants. They are reservoirs of biodiversiRead more
A wetland is a distinct ecosystem that is flooded by water, either permanently or seasonally, where oxygen-free processes prevail. The primary factor that distinguishes wetlands from other landforms or water bodies is the characteristic vegetation of aquatic plants.
They are reservoirs of biodiversity and provide a range of ecosystem services, which benefit us, including
Despite its numerous benefits, India has lost nearly one-third of its natural wetlands over the last four decades as per Wetlands International South Asia (WISA). The causes of wetland loss in India include:
Therefore, the government has brought the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2016 to preserve the ecological character of wetlands through the implementation of ecosystem approaches.
See lessWhat are Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESP)? Highlight their significance and associated challenges.
Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) are areas notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) around Protected Areas (PA), National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, under provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The delineation of ESZRead more
Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) are areas notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) around Protected Areas (PA), National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, under provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The delineation of ESZ is site specific and relates to regulation rather than prohibition of specific activities.
Significance of ESZS:
Challenges associated with ESZS
Identifying the importance of ESZs, the Madhav Gadgil committee (2011) had recommended converting the whole Western Ghats into an ESZ. The Kasturirangan committee (2012) had recommended a complete ban on quarrying and sand mining in the ESZs and to demarcate the cultural and natural landscape of the area. In 2018, the Supreme Court ordered MoEFCC to declare an area of 10Km around 21 National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries as ESZs.
See less