Module-01

INTRODUCTION & DEFINITION OF ENVIRONMENT

1.1 Introduction & Definition of Environment-

Que – Define Environment and explain its functions. (05 Marks)

The ‘Environment’ is very important for us to understand because it constitutes our
surroundings and affects our ability to live on the earth. It comprises of the air we breathe, the
water that covers most of the earth’s surface, the plants and animals around us, and much more.
It is therefore, very important to understand and appreciate the importance of ‘environment’ in
our daily life.
The word Environment is derived from the French word “Environ” which means
“surrounding”. Our surrounding includes biotic factors like human beings, Plants, animals,
microbes, etc and abiotic factors such as light, air, water, soil, etc. Environment is a complex of
many variables, which surrounds man as well as the living organisms.
Definitions-
1. Environment can be defined as a sum total of all the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-
living) elements and their effects that influence human life. While all living or biotic
elements are animals, plants, forests, fisheries, and birds, non- living or abiotic elements
include water, land, sunlight, rocks, and air.
2. Boring: ‘A person’s environment consists of the sum total of the stimulation which he
receives from his conception until his death.’
3. Douglas and Holland: ‘The term environment is used to describe, in the aggregate, all
the external forces, influences and conditions, which affect the life, nature, behavior and
the growth, development, and maturity of living organisms.’
4. The condition that people live, work, or spend time in and the way that they influence how
they feel, behave, or work.
5. “Environment” means the physical factors of the surroundings of human beings,
including land, water, atmosphere, climate, sound, odour, taste, the biological factors of
animals and plants and the social factor of aesthetics and includes both the natural and
the built environment.
6. It is a combination of living and non-living things and their mutual interaction with each
other which leads to an ecosystem.
7. An environment can be stated as a system encompassing all biotic and abiotic elements
affecting human life. The biotic or living components comprise all flora and fauna, and
abiotic components include water, sunlight, air, climate, etc.
1.2 Functions of Environment-

The different functions of environment are-

Provides the supply of resources-
✓ The environment offers resources for production.
✓ It includes both renewable and non-renewable resources.
✓ Examples: Wood for furniture, soil, land, etc.
Sustains life-
✓ The environment includes the sun, soil, water, and air, which are essential for human
life.
✓ It sustains life by providing genetic and biodiversity.
Assimilates waste -
✓ Production and consumption activities generate waste.
✓ This occurs mostly in the form of garbage.
✓ The environment helps in getting rid of the garbage.
Enhances the quality of life-
✓ The environment enhances the quality of life.
✓ Human beings enjoy the beauty of nature that includes rivers, mountains, deserts, etc.
✓ These add to the quality of life.

1.3 Types of Resources-

The different types of resources are-

1.4 Elements of Environment-

Que - Explain in details elements of environment. (05 Marks)

Atmosphere- The Atmosphere forms a distinctive protective layer about 100 km thick around
the earth. A blanket of gases called the atmosphere surrounds the earth and protects the surface
of earth from the Sun’s harmful, ultraviolet rays. It sustains life on the earth. It also regulates
temperature, preventing the earth from becoming too hot or too cold. It saves it from the hostile
environment of outer space. The atmosphere is composed of nitrogen and oxygen besides,
argon, carbon dioxide and trace gases.
 The atmosphere has a marked effect on the energy balance at the surface of the Earth. It
absorbs most of the cosmic rays from outer space and a major portion of the electromagnetic
radiation from the sun.

Hydrosphere: The Hydrosphere comprises all types of water resources oceans, seas, lakes,
rivers, streams, reservoirs, polar icecaps, glaciers, and ground water. Oceans represent 97% of
the earth’s water and about 2% of the water resources is locked in the polar icecaps and glaciers.
Only about 1% is available as fresh water as surface water in rivers, lakes, streams, and as
ground water for human use.
Lithosphere: Lithosphere is the outer mantle of the solid earth. It consists of minerals occurring
in the earth’s crusts and the soil e.g. minerals, organic matter, air and water.
Biosphere: Biosphere indicates the realm of living organisms and their interactions with
environment, viz atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere.

1.5 Importance of Environment-

Environment plays an important role in healthy living and the existence of life on planet
earth. Earth is a home for different living species and we all are dependent on the environment
for food, air, water, and other needs. Therefore, it is important for every individual to save and
protect our environment.

1.6 Importance of Environment-

There are different types of human activities which are directly attributed to the
environmental disasters, which include- acid rain, acidification of oceans, change in the climate,
deforestation, depletion of an ozone layer, disposal of hazardous wastes, global warming,
overpopulation, pollution, etc.
1.7 Ecosystem-

Que – What is ecosystem? Explain its structure. (10 Marks)

Ecosystem is a community of living and non-living things that work together.
An ecosystem is a structural and functional unit of ecology where the living organisms interact
with each other and the surrounding environment. In other words, an ecosystem is a chain of
interactions between organisms and their environment.

Structure of Ecosystem-
Ecosystem is a community of living and non-living things that work together. An
ecosystem is a structural and functional unit of ecology where the living organisms interact with
each other and the surrounding environment. In other words, an ecosystem is a chain of
interactions between organisms and their environment.
The structure of an ecosystem is characterized by the organization of both biotic and
abiotic components. This includes the distribution of energy in our environment.
The structure of an ecosystem can be split into two main components, namely:
✓ Biotic Components
✓ Abiotic Components
Biotic Components-
Biotic components refer to all living components in an ecosystem. Based on nutrition,
biotic components can be categorized into producer, consumer and decomposers.
a) Producers (Autotrophs)- It include all plants are called autotrophs as they can produce
food through the process of photosynthesis. Consequently, all other organisms higher up
on the food chain rely on producers for food.
b) Consumers (Heterotrophs)- Consumers are organisms that depend on other organisms
for food. Consumers are further classified into primary consumers, secondary consumers
and tertiary consumers.
Primary consumers- These are always herbivores as they rely on producers for food.
Secondary consumers- It depend on primary consumers for energy. They can either be
carnivores or omnivores.
 Tertiary consumers- They are organisms that depend on secondary consumers for food.
Tertiary consumers can also be carnivores or omnivores.
Quaternary consumers- They are present in some food chains. These organisms prey
on tertiary consumers for energy. Furthermore, they are usually at
the top of a food chain as they have no natural predators.
.
c) Decomposers- It include saprophytes such as fungi and bacteria. They directly thrive on
the dead and decaying organic matter. Decomposers are essential for the ecosystem as
they help in recycling nutrients to be reused by plants.

Abiotic Components-
Abiotic components are the non-living component of an ecosystem. It includes air, water,
soil, minerals, sunlight, temperature, nutrients, wind, altitude, turbidity, etc.

Types of Ecosystem-
An ecosystem can be as small as an oasis in a desert, or as big as an ocean, spanning
thousands of miles. There are two types of ecosystem:
✓ Terrestrial Ecosystem – Based on land
✓ Aquatic Ecosystem
a) Terrestrial Ecosystems:
Forest Ecosystem - A forest ecosystem consists of several plants, particularly trees,
animals and microorganisms that live in coordination with the abiotic
factors of the environment. Forests help in maintaining the temperature
of the earth.
Grassland Ecosystem - In a grassland ecosystem, the vegetation is dominated by grasses
& herbs.
Tundra Ecosystem- It found in cold climates or where rainfall is scarce & are covered
with snow for most of the year. These types found in the Arctic or
maintain tops.
Desert Ecosystem- These are regions with little rainfall and scarce vegetation & days are
hot, and the nights are cold.
b) Aquatic Ecosystem:
Freshwater Ecosystem- It founds in lakes, ponds, rivers, streams and wetlands. These have
no salt content in contrast with the marine ecosystem.
Marine Ecosystem- It includes seas and oceans. These have a more substantial salt content
and greater biodiversity in comparison to the freshwater ecosystem.
1.8 Functions of Ecosystem-

The functions of the ecosystem are as follows:

1. It regulates the essential ecological processes, supports life systems and renders
stability.
2. It is also responsible for the cycling of nutrients between biotic and abiotic
components.
3. It maintains a balance among the various trophic levels in the ecosystem.
4. It cycles the minerals through the biosphere.
5. The abiotic components help in the synthesis of organic components that involve the
exchange of energy.

1.9 Significance of Environment-

➢ Environmental resources, which include both renewable and nonrenewable resources, are
available for use in the production of goods and services.
➢ The environment includes the elements of sunlight, water, air, and soil, all of which are
essential for human survival. It ensures the continuation of life by maintaining genetic
variation and biodiversity.
➢ The production and consumption of activities generate waste, which is primarily in the
form of garbage, which the environment assists in the removal.
➢ Humans are only able to appreciate the beauty of mountains, lakes, rivers, deserts, and a
plethora of other stunning natural components because the environment is still in
existence.

1.10 Effect of Human activities on Environment-

The different effects dur to human activities on environment are-

✓ Acid rain
✓ Depletion of the ozone layer
✓ Change in the climate.
✓ Acidification of oceans
✓ Deforestation
✓ Pollution
✓ Global warming
✓ Disposal of hazardous wastes
✓ Overpopulation
1.11 Environmental Management Systems (EMS)-

Que - Explain Environmental Management System and its functions. (05 Marks)

An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a set of processes and practices that

enable an organization to reduce its environmental impacts and increase its operating efficiency.
An environmental management system is a framework designed to help organizations
monitor, control, and continuously improve their environmental performance. Organizations
can utilize the framework as an organizing principle to structure their environmental
strategy. Environmental Management Systems (EMS) can be used to reduce an organization's
environmental impacts and improve operating efficiencies while demonstrating to stakeholders
and interested parties that real action is being taken.
This site provides information and resources related to an EMS for small businesses
and private industry, as well as local, state and federal agencies.
Definitions-
Environmental Management is concerned with Man-Environment interface, the complex
boundary where bio-physical and socio-cultural systems interacts. (Hare 1970).
An approach which goes beyond natural resources management to encompass the political and
social as well as the natural environment. (Clarke 1999)
The process of allocating natural & artificial resources so as to make optimum use of the
environment in satisfying basis human needs, at the minimum, and more, if possible, on the
sustainable basis.. (Jolly 1978)

Need of Environmental Management System-

The main aim of this management process is to minimizing waste. An effective
environmental management process reduces carbon emissions, prevents pollution, and helps in
processing all the waste and wise usage of energy and resources.
The need of management system has following reasons-
For use of resources - Resources are limited, if we don't use them properly they will get
exhausted very soon. For appropriate and reasonable use of resources, environment
management is necessary. It is our basic responsibly to create an accurate coordination and
equilibrium between our needs and procedure of environment.
To overcome environment and ecology crisis - Environment management is the need of the
hour. The present development has reached a point where environment and ecology are in
crucial crisis, if the same has to continue, then it will create a disastrous effect on the
environment. The whole earth will be destroyed.
For sustainable development - Environmental management is required for development
without destruction or overuse of natural resources and to reduce pollution and degradation of
nature. Considering the welfare of future generations, proper decisions regarding use of
environment are necessary.

For economic need and values - Environmental Management is required to give new directions
to our economic needs and values, at the same time to maintain clean environment.
To reduce disasters - Environmental Management reduces the risk of disasters like flooding,
forest fire, earthquakes, desertification, transport accidents, Global warming, etc. We need to
explore the link between environmental system and disasters and also the synergies between
man-made and natural disasters.
To decide the limiting line between environment and development- Environmental
Management is essential to draw a line of limit for development and environment. For E.g. If
our development needs to lead to global warming or depletion of the ozone layer, then we must
not use the materials, and modify our way of development. We may adopt the policy of
afforestation.

Features of Environmental Management System-

✓ Serves as a tool, or process, to improve environmental performance and information
mainly "design, pollution control and waste minimization, training, reporting to top
management, and the setting of goals".
✓ Provides a systematic way of managing an organization's environmental affairs.
✓ Organization's overall management structure that addresses immediate and long-term
impacts of its products, services and processes on the environment. EMS assists with
planning, controlling and monitoring policies in an organization.
✓ Gives order and consistency for organizations to address environmental concerns through
the allocation of resources, assignment of responsibility and ongoing evaluation of
practices, procedures and processes.
✓ Sets framework for training to achieve objectives and desired performance.
✓ Helps understand legislative requirements to better determine a product or service's
impact, significance, priorities and objectives.
✓ Focuses on continual improvement of the system and a way to implement policies and
objectives to meet a desired result.
✓ Encourages contractors and suppliers to establish their own EMS.

Environmental Management System Model-

An EMS follows a Plan-Do-Check-Act or PDCA, Cycle. The diagram shows the process
of first developing an environmental policy, planning the EMS, and then implementing it. The
process also includes checking the system and acting on it. The model is continuous because an
EMS is a process of continual improvement in which an organization is constantly reviewing
and revising the system.
 This is a model that can be used by a wide range of organizations – from
manufacturing facilities to service industries to government agencies.

Plan- Planning involves making environmental reviews by collecting baseline information

which includes legal requirements, environmental aspects, environmental impacts, current
practices of the organization and the environmental opportunities.
It also involves obtaining the measurable environmental goals and objectives of the
organization that synchronizes with legal requirements with a focus to improve work
performance and efforts to achieve these objectives and targets within given time limits.
Do- These deals with the Implementation and Operation of the plans. It involves providing
resources and delegating responsibilities for the efficient performance of the system. It also
involves the training and sharing of awareness to staff to make sure the environmental policy
and its implications are understood to ensure Environmental Management System conformity.
It also involves documenting the environmental policy and this document contains the
environment and organization's objectives and goals of the organization. It involves the
identification implementation of operational controls to ensure safe work procedures and
achievement of organization targets.
Check- This involves making regular checks and recommending corrective actions for
mitigation. This involves monitoring procedures pointing to significant environmental aspects
and their related impacts evaluating its compliance with legal and other requirements. Checks
are also done to point out and measure non-conformity to legal and other requirements
introducing corrective and preventative actions procedures to handle this non-conformity
reviewing their efficiency.
Act- This entails the managerial review and taking of actions by organization management to
ensure compliance with legal and other requirements recording better options for improvement.
It also involves taking necessary actions to amend and redefine objectives, targets and other
elements to ensure consistent improvement.
Outputs from this phase will inform the next cycle of EMS implementation to ensure
continuous improvement in environmental performance.

Environmental Management System Types-

Que - Explain ISO 14001 Model in details. (10 Marks)
 Environmental management systems differ from organization to organization. Below are
some of the most common types of EMS organizations can utilize to create the framework that
helps them achieve their environmental goals.
Three types of EMS are-
✓ ISO 14001
✓ Eco-Management Auditing Scheme
✓ ISO 14005
a) ISO 14001- ISO 14001 is an internationally agreed standard that sets out the requirements
for an environmental management system. It helps organizations improve their
environmental performance through more efficient use of resources and reduction of
waste, gaining a competitive advantage and the trust of stakeholders.
According to the international standard, ISO 14001, an Environmental
Management System (EMS) is “the part of the overall management system that includes
organizational structure, planning activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures,
processes, and resources for developing, implementing, achieving, reviewing and
maintaining the environmental policy. The ISO 14001 EMS standard consists of five
sections, Environmental Policy, Planning, Implementation & Operations, Checking and
Corrective Action, and Management Review
The ISO 14001 environmental management systems standard contains the
following key elements:
✓ Environmental policy
✓ Planning
✓ Implementation and Operation
✓ Checking and Corrective Action
✓ Management review
Environmental Policy – Establishes and communicates an organization’s position and
commitment as it relates to energy and the environment.
Planning – Identifies energy and environmental issues and requirements, and defines the
initiatives and resources needed to achieve the environmental policy and
economic goals.
Implementation & Operations – Describes the procedures, programs and
responsibilities necessary to implement the key initiatives to achieve goals.
Checking and Corrective Action – Regularly monitors and assesses the effectiveness of
energy and environmental management activities.
Management Review – High-level evaluation of the management system as a whole to
determine its overall effectiveness in terms of driving continual improvement
and achieving business goals.
 b) Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS)- The EU Eco-Management and Audit
Scheme (EMAS) is a premium management instrument developed by the European
Commission for companies and other organizations to evaluate, report, and improve their
environmental performance.
c) ISO 14005- ISO 14005:2010 provides guidance for all organizations, but particularly
small- and medium-sized enterprises, on the phased development, implementation,
maintenance and improvement of an environmental management system. It also includes
advice on the integration and use of environmental performance evaluation techniques.
ISO 14005:2010 is applicable to any organization, regardless of its level of
development, the nature of the activities undertaken or the location at which they occur.

1.12 Significance of Environment Management for contemporary Manager-

➢ Environment Management draws attention in industrial development, a nations economic

progress and social welfare and fulfilment of responsibilities towards society.
➢ Negotiation between management and society helps organizations seek to strategically
manage a fresh and emerging issue with distinct users.
➢ Management help in how pollution has been controlled by the corporate.
➢ Environment management improves the performances through better management of
environmental cost thus benefits the natural and human environments.
➢ Environmental management is helpful in discharging organizational accountability and
increase environmental transparency. Also sustainable development is possible using
environment management.
➢ Environmental management supports green reporting against all negative public opinion in
global economy.
➢ Impressive decisions taking to reduce or eliminate many environmental problems.

1.13 Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR)-

Corporate Social Responsibility is a management concept whereby companies integrate

social and environmental concerns in their business operations and interactions with their
stakeholders. CSR is generally understood as being the way through which a company achieves
a balance of economic, environmental and social imperatives (“Triple-Bottom-
Line- Approach”), while at the same time addressing the expectations of shareholders and
stakeholders.
For a company to be socially responsible, it first needs to be accountable to itself and its
shareholders. Companies that adopt CSR programs have often grown their business to the point
where they can give back to society. Thus, CSR is typically a strategy that's implemented by
large corporations.
Economical responsibility- A corporate has to meet its economical responsibilities in terms
of reasonable return to investors, fair compensation to employees, goods at fair prices to
customers etc. Thus, meeting economical responsibility is the first-layer of responsibility and
also the basic for the subsequent responsibilities. The facts remains that meeting economic
responsibility is must for all corporations to survive in the time.
Legal responsibility- The next level of the pyramid is legal responsibility. This defines a
company’s responsibility to follow all the laws and regulations that apply to the business
operations. We can think about the tax regulations in certain states, countries, or regions as
one example. Further, one can think about the health and safety of employees. Many regions
mandate certain rules or laws to follow when employing others. These laws are in place to
protect consumers from becoming ill. Naturally, failing to be legally responsible has many
negative consequences.
Ethical responsibility- Following legal responsibility on the pyramid is ethical responsibility.
Generally, ethics go beyond a certain region’s laws and follow the social or cultural norms of
that area. Therefore, a company should not be just obeying the law, but also be willing to do
business ethically. Although this is not an obligation for your company, it is in the best interests.
Customers and employees will be more likely to support your team when making ethical
decisions.
An example could be fair working conditions, working wage, working hours, or age of
employed worker. Depending on the country or state, laws differ and your team will have to
decide how your business is operated and who your business works with. It is up to management
to make moral decisions that will ultimately impact consumers, employees, the environment,
and this business itself.
Philanthropic responsibility- The final piece on the pyramid is philanthropic responsibility.
Businesses are expected to give back to their communities. Similar to ethical responsibility, this
is not an obligation or law for most countries. Businesses being philanthropic improves brand
image. Further, consumer engagement increases & employees are more likely to apply for a
job. The nature of this responsibility is completely voluntary and is guided by your company’s
desire to take part in social activities.
Naturally a company can donate part of the profits from the first section of the pyramid-
economic. However, philanthropic does not always have to be money that is donated. Teams
can donate time or products. The social responsibility of a business is to make sure that they
can affect social, economic, public health, and environmental changes in a positive way
1.14 Career Opportunities in Environment-

Que - Explain different career opportunities in environment. (10 Marks)

Environmental Resource Management is a wide interdisciplinary area at the junction of
Environmental Sciences and Management and Organization studies. Environmental resource
management Studies mainly deals with the study of Climatic Changes, Conservation of Energy,
Soil, water and methods to treat air, water and soil pollution.
Building a Career in Environmental Resource Management has a highest growth with
Fruit full salaries and more opportunities on Research and Development. They supervise the
environmental performance of various organizations - both private and public.
The following chart is an overview of the basics of this career.

Degree Required Bachelor's degree

Education Field of Study Environmental science, engineering

Key Skills Management skills, analytical abilities, oral and written

communication

Licensure Required Certification recommended

Job Growth (2020-2030) 8%*

Median Salary (2020) $73,230*

Detail Carrier Scope-

Here we are providing few overviews so that you can understand the future scope in the
field of environmental Management.
Environmental Consultancy- After completion of a higher degree like MSc, ME/MTech, and
Ph.D. in Environmental science, you can work as independent environmental consultants or
work for any consultancy. For example, ecological consultancies like RAMKY, ENZEN, etc.
Environmental NGO- you can work for NGO’s like Green Peace, WWF, CSE Delhi, etc. or
start an NGO.
State, National and International Agencies- You can join state, national, and international
agencies like State SPCB, State EIA, CPCB labs, UNEP, WHO, etc.
Research Lab- Almost all the university and Govt research organization has an Environmental
Department. You can start working as a JRF or Project Assistants for various projects.
Government PSUs- You can also join government PSU like NTPC, IOCL, CIL, etc. all have
environment departments. They prefer MSc and MTech in Environmental Engg.
Private Industries- You can also start your career in the private sector. Many Industries like
Reliance, Adani Port. WIPRO etc. all have environmental departments, and they prefer
environmental students for multiple positions.

Job Profiles In Environmental Management-

A person having a degree in environmental science can apply for different job
designation. According to the type of degree, i.e., bachelor or master degree, one will be eligible
to apply for the various job profile.
✓ Environmental Scientist
✓ Environmental Consultant
✓ Environmental Science Manager
✓ Lecturer
✓ Wildlife Film-maker
✓ Environment Photographer
✓ Environment Journalists
Job Profiles-
Working as an environmental analyst, an entry-level job, will fetch you a salary of 3-
5LPA. As experience increases then a more seasoned professional can fetch a mid-career salary
of 6 – 7LPA. The late-career salaries of Environmental Managers can be as high as 12-15 LPA.

1.15 Environment issues relevant to India-

Que - Explain in details what are the different environmental issues in India. (10 Marks)
As the population hits 1.54 billion, India is the second most populated country. While its
population and economic wealth grow, so do its pollution and environmental problems. Let's
look into India's environmental issues, Prominent current environmental issues in India are
surrounding air and water pollution, deforestation, desertification, and waste management.
Some of the current environmental issues that require urgent attention are:
Climate Change - Climate change is a great concern in today’s scenario. It is mainly due to
increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide produced by the use of fossil fule. Greenhouse
gases are the major cause of climate change. Environmental changes have several destructive
impacts such as the melting of glaciers, change in seasons, epidemics, etc.
Global Warming - The burning of fossil fuels, emissions from automobiles and
chlorofluorocarbons add to the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This has led to an increase
in the earth’s temperature causing environmental changes. This increase in temperature across
the globe is known as global warming.
Ozone Layer Depletion - The ozone layer protects us from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.
This very important layer is being destroyed by CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), which are used in
industries and everyday life. The chlorine in these destroys the ozone layer. This cause humans
and wildlife exposed to harmful UV rays resulting in skin diseases and cancer.
Water Pollution - The harmful substances into rivers, oceans, lakes and ponds, which changes
the physical, chemical or biological condition of the water is called water pollution. The polluted
water lacks oxygen and therefore the organisms die.
Air Pollution – Air pollution is the result of emissions from industries, automobiles, and the
increasing use of fossil fuels. The gaseous emissions have added to an increase in the
temperature of the earth. Not only this, but it had also increased the risk of diseases among
individuals.
Solid Waste Management - Solid-waste management is defined as the discipline associated
with the generation, storage, collection, transfer and transport, processing, and disposal of solid
waste in a manner that it does not have a harmful effect on the environment.
Deforestation - Deforestation is the depletion of trees and forests at an alarming rate. The trees
provide us with oxygen, and several raw materials and also maintain the temperature of the
earth. Due to the depletion of trees for commercial purposes, there has been a drastic change in
the earth’s climate. Forests are an abode to a large number of wild animals and plants.
Destruction of forests has led to the elimination of a large number of plants and animal species
affecting biodiversity.
Overpopulation - The earth’s population is increasing drastically. It is estimated to be more
than seven billion. The increasing population has led to a shortage of resources. If this continues,
it will be very difficult to sustain such a huge population. The other environmental issues
including pollution, waste management, deforestation, climate change and global warming are
all associated with overpopulation.

1.16 Solution to Environment issues-

Following are some of the most common solutions to the environmental issue:
✓ Replace disposal items with reusable items.
✓ The use of paper should be avoided.
✓ Conserve water and electricity.
✓ Support environmental friendly practices.
✓ Recycle waste to conserve natural resources.

Environmental issues are a warning of the upcoming disaster. If these issues are not
controlled, there will soon be no life on earth.
1.17 Sustainable Development-

Que - Explain in details sustainable developments, its importance and strategies. (10 Marks)

Environment and economy are interdependent and need each other. Hence, development
that ignores its repercussions on the environment will destroy the environment that sustains life
forms. Which needed sustainable development: development that will allow all future
generations to have a potential average quality of life that is at least as high as that which is
being enjoyed by the current generation.
Definition-
“Sustainable development is the kind of development where we meet and fulfill the needs of the
present generations but without harming or compromising the future generations”. Sustainable
development can be obtained by using renewable resources like hydroelectricity, geothermal
power etc.
OR
Utilization of resources in such a way that it meets the needs for present generation without
compromising the demands of future generation. Sustainable development refers to carefully
utilizing resources so that it can meet the requirements of the present but also take care of
future generations.
OR
Sustainable development is referred to as the idea that human beings should sustain by meeting
their basic needs, while also making sure that the future generations are able to meet their basic
needs.

Need of Sustainable Development-

From the last two or three decades, we have seen that for the sake of economic growth,
the health of the environment has taken a toll. As a result, there has been an impact on the
environment such as decline in air quality and climate change due to greenhouse gases.
All these factors led to the need for sustainable development, as if left unchecked it can
cause irreversible damage to the environment.

Objectives of Sustainable Development-

Economic Growth - For creating an economy that is sustainable and growing in the right
direction.
Protecting the Environment - This objective focuses on contribution by humans towards
protecting and enhancing the natural environment, by minimizing pollution and waste, also
working towards reducing the global carbon footprint.
Social Inclusion - This objective focuses on providing the facility of housing for future
generations and assisting in creating healthy, strong and vibrant global communities.
Importance of Sustainable Development-
✓ Preservation of biological diversity in terrestrial, freshwater and marine systems.
✓ Sustainable use of resources and minimizing the depletion of resources.
✓ Caring for the environment.
✓ Improving the quality of life including social and economic concerns.
✓ Conservation of natural capital both for renewable and non- renewable resources.
✓ Conservation of natural and cultural diversity.
✓ Limits on natural resource utilization and assimilation of wastes.
✓ Efficiency of resource utilization by all societies.
✓ Social equity through poverty reduction and gender equity.
✓ Reduction of emission of greenhouse gases.
✓ Reduction in use of ozone depleting substances.
✓ Reduction in air pollution.
✓ Reduction in use of chemical fertilizers.
✓ Stopping desertification.

Goals of Sustainable Development-

✓ No Poverty
✓ Zero Hunger
✓ Good Health and Well-being
✓ Quality Education
✓ Gender Equality
✓ Clean Water and Sanitation
✓ Affordable and Clean Energy
✓ Decent Work and Economic Growth
✓ Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
✓ Reduced Inequality
✓ Sustainable Cities and Communities
✓ Responsible Consumption and Production
✓ Climate Action
✓ Life Below Water
✓ Life on Land
 ✓ Peace and Justice Strong Institutions
✓ Partnerships to achieve the Goal

Strategies of Sustainable Development-

Que – What are the different strategies of sustainable development. (05 Marks)
Use of Non-conventional Sources of Energy- India is hugely dependent on thermal and hydro
power plants to meet its power needs. Both of these have adverse environmental impacts.
Thermal power plants emit large quantities of carbon dioxide which is a green house gas. It also
produces fly ash which, if not used properly, can cause pollution of water bodies, land and other
components of the environment. Hydroelectric projects forests interfere with the natural flow of
water in areas and the river basins. Wind power and solar rays are not yet been explored on a
large scale due to lack of technological devices.
LPG, Gobar Gas in Rural Areas - Households in rural areas generally use wood, dung cake
or other biomass as fuel. This practice has several adverse implications like deforestation,
reduction in green cover, wastage of cattle dung and air pollution. To rectify the situation,
subsidized LPG is being provided. In addition, gobar gas plants are being provided through easy
loans and subsidy. As far as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is concerned, it is a clean fuel — it
reduces household pollution to a large extent. Also, energy wastage is minimized.
CNG in Urban Areas - In India the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as fuel in public
transport system has significantly lowered air pollution and the air has become cleaner in the
last few years.
Wind Power - In areas where speed of wind is usually high, wind mills can provide electricity
without any adverse impact on the environment. Wind turbines move with the wind and
electricity is generated. No doubt, the initial cost is high. But the benefits are such that the high
cost gets easily absorbed.
Solar Power through Photovoltaic Cells – In India large quantity of solar energy in the form
of sunlight. We use it in different ways. For example, we dry our clothes, grains, other
agricultural products as well as various items made for daily use. Plants use solar energy to
perform photosynthesis. Now, with the help of photovoltaic cells, solar energy can be converted
into electricity. These cells use special kind of materials to capture solar energy and then convert
the energy into electricity. This technology is extremely useful for remote areas and for places
where power lines is either not possible or proves very costly. This technique is also totally free
from pollution.
Mini-hydel Plants - Mini-hydel plants use the energy of mountainous streams to move small
turbines. The turbines generate electricity which can be used locally. Such power plants are
more or less environment-friendly as they do not change the land use pattern in areas where they
are located; they generate enough power to meet local demands.
Traditional Knowledge and Practices - Traditionally, Indian people have been close to their
environment. They have been more a component of the environment. If we look back at our
agriculture system, healthcare system, housing, transport etc., we find that all practices have
been environment friendly. Todays human behaviour caused large scale damage to the
environment and also our rural heritage. Now, it is time to go back. Use the Ayurvedic medicine
for health.
Bio composting- To increase agricultural production during the last five decades or so, we
almost totally neglected the use of compost and completely switched over to chemical fertilizers.
The result is that large tracts of productive land have been adversely affected, water bodies
including ground water system have suffered due to chemical contamination and demand for
irrigation has been going up year after year. Farmers, in large numbers all over the country, have
again started using compost made from organic wastes of different types.
Biopest Control – Today we use more and more chemical pesticides for higher yield. Soon, the
adverse impacts began to show; food products were contaminated, soil, water bodies and even
ground water were polluted with pesticides. Even milk, meat and fishes were found to be
contaminated. To meet this challenge, efforts are on to bring in better methods of pest control.
Neem trees are proving to be quite useful. In addition, awareness is spreading about various
animals and birds which help in controlling pests.

1.18 Energy Scenario-

Que - Explain different types of energy in energy scenario. (05 Marks)

Energy is one of the major inputs for the economic development of any country. In the case of
the developing countries, the energy sector assumes a critical importance in view of the ever-
increasing energy needs requiring huge investments to meet them.
Energy can be classified into several types based on the following criteria-
✓ Primary and Secondary energy
✓ Commercial and Non commercial energy
✓ Renewable and Non-Renewable energy
Primary and Secondary Energy- Primary energy sources are those that are either found or
stored in nature. Common primary energy sources are coal, oil, natural gas, and biomass (such
as wood). Other primary energy sources available include nuclear energy from radioactive
substances, thermal energy stored in earth's interior, and potential energy due to earth's gravity.
Primary energy sources are mostly converted in industrial utilities into secondary energy
sources. for example coal, oil or gas converted into steam and electricity. Primary energy can
also be used directly. Some energy sources have non-energy uses, for example coal or natural
gas can be used as a feedstock in fertilizer plant.
Commercial Energy and Non Commercial Energy-
Commercial Energy- The energy sources that are available in the market for a definite price
are known as commercial energy. By far the most important forms of commercial energy are
electricity, coal and refined petroleum products. Commercial energy forms the basis of
industrial, agricultural, transport and commercial development in the modern world. In the
industrialized countries, commercialized fuels are predominant source not only for economic
production, but also for many household tasks of general population. Examples- Electricity,
lignite, coal, oil, natural gas etc.
Non-Commercial Energy- The energy sources that are not available in the commercial market
for a price are classified as non-commercial energy. Non-commercial energy sources include
fuels such as firewood, cattle dung and agricultural wastes, which are not bought at a price used
especially in rural households. These are also called traditional fuels. Non-commercial energy
is often ignored in energy accounting.
Example: Firewood, agro waste in rural areas; solar energy for water heating, electricity
generation, for drying grain, fish and fruits; animal power for transport, threshing, lifting water
for irrigation, crushing sugarcane; wind energy for lifting water and electricity generation.
Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy-
Renewable energy is energy obtained from sources that are essentially inexhaustible.
Examples of renewable resources include wind power, solar power, geothermal energy, tidal
power and hydroelectric power as shown in figure. The most important feature of renewable
energy is that it can be harnessed without the release of harmful pollutants.
Non-renewable energy is the conventional fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas, which are
likely to deplete with time.
Global primary Energy reserves-
Coal-
The proven global coal reserve was estimated to be 9,84,453 million tones by end of 2003. The
USA had the largest share of the global reserve (25.4%) followed by Russia (15.9%), China
(11.6%). India was 4th in the list with 8.6%.
Oil-
The global proven oil reserve was estimated to be 1147 billion barrels by the end of 2003. Saudi
Arabia had the largest share of the reserve with almost 23%. (One barrel of oil is approximately
160 litres).
Gas-
The global proven gas reserve was estimated to be 176 trillion cubic metres by the end of 2003.
The Russian Federation had the largest share of the reserve with almost 27%. (*Source: BP
Statistical Review of World Energy, June 2004).

Indian Energy Scenario-

Coal dominates the energy mix in India, contributing to 55% of the total primary energy
production. Over the years, there has been a marked increase in the share of natural gas in
primary energy production from 10% in 1994 to 13% in 1999. There has been a decline in the
share of oil in primary energy production from 20% to 17% during the same period.
Coal Supply- India has huge coal reserves, at least 84,396 million tones of proven recoverable
reserves (at the end of 2003). This amounts to almost 8.6% of the world reserves and it may last
for about 230 years at the current Reserve to Production ratio. India is the fourth largest producer
of coal and lignite in the world. Coal production is concentrated in these states (Andhra Pradesh,
Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Jharkhand, West Bengal).
 Oil Supply- Oil accounts for about 36 % of India's total energy consumption. India today is
one of the top ten oil-guzzling nations in the world and will soon overtake Korea as the third
largest consumer of oil in Asia after China and Japan. The country's annual crude oil production
is peaked at about 32 million tone as against the current peak demand of about 110 million tone.
In the current scenario, India's oil consumption by end of 2007 is expected to reach 136 million
tone(MT), of which domestic production will be only 34 MT. The majority of India's roughly
5.4 billion barrels in oil reserves are located in the Bombay High, upper Assam, Cambay,
Krishna-Godavari. In terms of sector wise petroleum product consumption, transport accounts
for 42% followed by domestic and industry with 24% and 24% respectively.
Natural Gas Supply- Natural gas accounts for about 8.9 per cent of energy consumption in the
country. The current demand for natural gas is about 96 million cubic metres per day as against
availability of 67 metres per day . By 2007, the demand is expected to be around 200 mcmd.
Natural gas reserves are estimated at 660 billion cubic meters.
Electrical Energy Supply- The all India installed capacity of electric power generating stations
under utilities was 1,12,581 MW as on 31st May 2004, consisting of 28,860 MW- hydro, 77,931
MW - thermal and 2,720 MW- nuclear and 1,869 MW- wind (Ministry of Power). The gross
generation of power in the year 2002-2003 stood at 531 billion units (kWh).
Nuclear Power Supply- Nuclear Power contributes to about 2.4 per cent of electricity generated
in India. India has ten nuclear power reactors at five nuclear power stations producing
electricity. More nuclear reactors have also been approved for construction.
Hydro Power Supply- India is endowed with a vast and viable hydro potential for power
generation of which only 15% has been harnessed so far. The share of hydropower in the
country's total generated units has steadily decreased and it presently stands at 25% as on 31st
May 2004. It is assessed that exploitable potential at 60% load factor is 84,000 MW

Long term Energy Scenario in India-

Coal- Coal is the predominant energy source for power production in India, generating
approximately 70% of total domestic electricity. Energy demand in India is expected to increase
over the next 10-15 years; although new oil and gas plants are planned, coal is expected to
remain the dominant fuel for power generation. However, to meet expected future demand, coal
production will have to be stands at around 290 Million tones per year, but coal demand is
expected to more than double by 2010. Indian coal is typically of poor quality and as such
requires to be beneficiated to improve the quality.
Oil- India's demand for petroleum products is likely to rise from 97.7 million tones in 2001-02
to around 139.95 million tones in 2006-07, according to projections of the Tenth Five-Year
Plan. The plan document puts compound annual growth rate at 3.6 % during the plan period.
Domestic crude oil production is likely to rise marginally from 32.03 million tones in 2001-02
to 33.97 million tones by the end of the 10th plan period (2006-07). Same is expect ed to go
down to 8% by 2020. Around 92% of India's total oil demand by 2020 has to be met by imports.
Natural Gas- India's natural gas production is likely to rise from 86.56 million cmpd in 2002-
03 to 103.08 million cmpd in 2006-07. It is mainly based on the strength of a more than doubling
of production by private operators to 38.25 mm cmpd.
Electricity- India currently has a peak demand shortage of around 14% and an energy deficit of
8.4%. Keeping this in view and to maintain a GDP (gross domestic product) growth of 8% to
10%, the Government of India has very prudently set a target of 215,804 MW power generation
capacity by March 2012 from the level of 100,010 MW as on March 2001, that is a capacity
addition of 115,794 MW in the next 11 years (Table 1.3). In the area of nuclear power the
objective is to achieve 20,000 MW of nuclear generation capacity by the year 2020.

1.19 Energy and Environment-

The usage of energy resources in industry leads to environmental damages by polluting

the atmosphere. Few of examples of air pollution are sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrous oxide
(NOX) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions from boilers and furnaces, chloro-fluro carbons
(CFC) emissions from refrigerants use, etc. In chemical and fertilizers industries, toxic gases
are released. Cement plants and power plants spew out particulate matter. Typical inputs,
outputs, and emissions for a typical industrial process are shown in Figure.

End of Module-01