Environment and Ecology — Sustainable Development
1. NABARD's Climate Strategy 2030
Context: NABARD unveiled its Climate Strategy 2030 document on World Earth Day.
- Aim: Address India's need for green financing. Released during the 78th Business Plan Meet (BPM) at Thiruvananthapuram.
- Four Key Pillars:
- Accelerating Green Lending across sectors
- Playing a broader Market-Making Role
- Internal Green Transformation of NABARD
- Strategic Resource Mobilization
- Objective: Reinforce NABARD's commitment to environmental stewardship and to be a pivotal player in India's transition towards a resilient & sustainable economy.
About Green Finance
- Definition (UNEP): Increasing the level of financial flows from public, private, and not-for-profit sectors to sustainable development priorities.
- Includes climate finance but is not limited to it — also includes industrial pollution control, water sanitation, biodiversity protection.
- Examples: Purchasing eco-friendly goods, developing green infrastructure, green bonds, mortgages, funds, loans, and sustainable credit cards.
- Significance: Managing environmental and social risks, seizing opportunities that offer both financial returns and environmental benefits, ensuring greater accountability.
About NABARD:
- Constituted for "matters concerning policy, planning, and operations in the field of credit for agriculture and other economic activities in rural areas in India."
- Headquarters: Mumbai
2. Million Miyawaki Project
Context: The Embassy of Israel in India, in collaboration with a non-profit entity, joined the 'Million Miyawaki' project as part of Earth Day celebrations.
- Community-led initiative aimed at improving air quality in Indian cities through mass afforestation in tight urban spaces.
- Aim: Planting a million trees in Delhi-NCR by creating 'forest-like' Miyawaki plantations of 600 trees each, with up to 30 different locally-sourced species.
About Miyawaki Technique
- Developed by: Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1980s.
- Aim: To create more green areas in a small space by growing a dense forest in just ten years (usually takes a hundred years).
- Features:
- Cultivating multi-layered forests that grow rapidly.
- Mimics the natural biodiversity of native forests.
- Planting two to four varieties per square metre.
- Only largely self-sustaining plants are selected.
- Reduces the need for regular maintenance like fertilisation and watering.
3. Clean Energy Transition
Context: The report "Fostering Effective Energy Transition 2024" was released by the World Economic Forum.
- Energy Transition Index (ETI): Assesses 120 nations' energy system performance and preparedness.
- India's Rank: 63 (up from 67 in 2023)
- Investments in clean energy infrastructure: Reached $1.8 trillion in 2023, with advanced economies and China accounting for approximately 90% of the rise since 2021.
- Top five performers: Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Switzerland, and France.
- Net-zero emissions in 2022: Bhutan, Comoros, Gabon, Guyana, Madagascar, Niue, Panama, and Suriname.
- Energy corporations might save more than $500 billion a year thanks to generative AI.
Key Findings
- Geopolitical tensions and fragmentation are major risks for energy security.
- Around 20% of today's global oil and LNG supplies flow through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Clean energy is entering at an unprecedented rate — more than 560 GW of new renewables capacity added in 2023.
- More than half of the world's electricity will be generated by low-emission sources before 2030.
Key Point: India ranks 63rd in the Energy Transition Index 2024, up from 67th in 2023.
4. Traditional Knowledge and Genetic Resources
Context: The Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Associated Traditional Knowledge was adopted by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
- Traditional Knowledge (TK): Indigenous groups' system of knowledge related to their natural surroundings — includes scientific, ecological, medical, and agricultural expertise.
- Genetic Resources (GRs): Resources found in agricultural products, animal breeds, and medicinal plants.
- Significance: According to WHO, 80% of people worldwide rely on traditional medicine for primary medical care.
Treaty Overview
- Over 150 countries, including India, have ratified the treaty — first international agreement addressing the relationship between TK, GRs, and Intellectual Property.
- Origin: Negotiations triggered by Colombia's 1999 request; discussions at WIPO started in 2001.
- Special Provisions: Includes provisions for Indigenous peoples and local communities.
- Ratification: Will take effect three months after 15 parties have ratified it.
Key Provisions
- Patent applicants must disclose the source or country of origin if the invention is based on genetic resources.
- If traditional knowledge is used, applicants must identify the Indigenous Peoples or local communities that provided it.
- Countries must establish national legal, administrative, or policy frameworks.
- Information systems (databases for GRs and TK) will be created after consulting with local communities.
- Financial aid will be provided to developing countries.
- The treaty does not apply to patents filed before ratification.
- The International Bureau of WIPO handles administrative duties.
About WIPO:
- Specialized agency of the UN, located in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Established by the WIPO Convention in 1967.
- Members: 193 member states.
5. Ecomark Rules 2024
Context: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified the Ecomark Rules, 2024, replacing the 1991 Ecomark scheme.
- Ecomark: A certification that identifies products meeting environmental standards — focusing on reducing pollution, waste, and promoting recycling.
- Notified: 26th September 2024.
- Part of: Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) initiative (2021).
Key Provisions
- Manufacturers must apply to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) with details on how their product meets environmental standards.
- Certification is valid for 3 years or until criteria change.
- Ecomark holders must submit an annual report to CPCB by May 31.
- Steering Committee (led by the Environment Secretary) oversees implementation.
- Products must meet Bureau of Indian Standards or government criteria, reduce pollution, be recyclable, conserve resources, and minimize harmful materials.
About Ecomark Scheme:
- Administered by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
- Oversight by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.
- Voluntary basis: Manufacturers can apply for the label.
- Products with both the ECO Logo and ISI Mark meet environmental and quality standards.
6. Bio-Bitumen
Context: India's first National Highway built using Bio-Bitumen was inaugurated at the Mansar Bypass on National Highway 44 in Nagpur.
- Bio-Bitumen: An eco-friendly alternative to conventional bitumen derived from renewable organic materials — agricultural residues, forestry waste, or other biomass.
- Key Features:
- Renewable Origin: Produced from lignin (by-product of paper and pulp industries) or plant-based materials.
- Eco-Friendly: Lowers greenhouse gas emissions; contributes to sustainable waste management.
- Durability and Performance: Comparable strength and flexibility to conventional bitumen.
- Cost-Efficiency: Long-term environmental benefits offset initial costs.
7. Constructed Wetlands
Context: Constructed wetlands are emerging as a promising solution to purify water similar to naturally occurring wetlands.
- Definition: Engineered systems designed to replicate natural processes of wetlands for wastewater treatment.
- Types:
- Subsurface Flow (SSF): Guides wastewater through gravel or porous media, encouraging microbial activity.
- Surface Flow (SF): Aesthetic appeal with gently flowing streams and lush vegetation.
- Benefits:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Cost-effective solution for wastewater treatment.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces pollution, promotes sustainable development.
- Economic Advantages: Creates job opportunities, supports local economies.
- Social Impact: Improves public health, enhances quality of life.
Examples of Constructed Wetlands in India:
- Decentralised Wastewater Treatment Strategy, Chennai
- Kolkata East Wetlands, West Bengal
- Palla Village, Haryana
- Auroville, Tamil Nadu
- Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
8. Nano DAP
Context: The Interim Budget 2024-25 announced the expansion of the application of Nano DAP on various crops in all agro-climatic zones.
- Launch: April 2023 by IFFCO.
- Composition: 8% Nitrogen and 16% Phosphorus by volume.
- Characteristic Features: Liquid form; particle size less than 100 Nanometre (nm).
- Benefits:
- Efficiency: More effective than conventional DAP in nutrient delivery.
- Affordability: More cost-effective, reducing farmers' expenses.
- Subsidy Relief: Lowers the government's subsidy burden.
- Convenience: Easier to transport, store, and apply.
- Reduced Imports: Promotes domestic production.
- Self-Reliance: Boosts India's fertiliser self-sufficiency.
9. Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold)
Context: The CCEA approved the new fortified Urea combination — Sulphur Coated Urea (SCU), also called Urea Gold.
- Non-organic slow-release fertiliser.
- Prepared by coating preheated urea granules with molten sulphur, forming a membrane that regulates nitrogen availability.
- Urea Gold has added humic acid to enhance the longevity of the fertiliser.
- 15 kg of Urea Gold equivalent to 20 kg of conventional urea (25% reduction).
- Normal urea: 46% nitrogen as a single plant nutrient.
- Urea Gold: 37% nitrogen and 17% sulphur.
Key Point: 15 kg of Urea Gold = 20 kg of conventional urea — reducing urea consumption by 25%.
10. Nitrogen-Use Efficiency (NUE)
Context: Indian scientists identified significant natural variations in nitrogen use efficiency among different rice varieties.
- NUE: Ratio of nitrogen effectively used by crops to nitrogen applied.
- High NUE varieties: Khira and CR Dhan 301 (long-duration); Dhana Heera (high NUE with shorter growth duration).
- Significance: Essential for optimizing crop yields, boosting productivity, and reducing fertiliser costs.
- Ineffective use costs India Rs 1 lakh crore annually and over ₹170 billion globally.
- Environmental Consequences: Contributes to greenhouse gas emissions (nitrous oxide) and water body eutrophication.
- Global Commitment: India is a signatory to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (2022) — mandates countries to halve nutrient waste from all sources by 2030.
11. Greenwashing Guidelines
Context: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued guidelines for 'Prevention and Regulation of Greenwashing and Misleading Environmental Claims, 2024'.
- Greenwashing: Deceptive marketing practices where companies falsely claim environmental benefits using vague terms like "eco-friendly," "natural," or "green."
Key Recommendations
- Environmental claims must be backed by credible certifications and reliable scientific evidence.
- Terms like "sustainable," "organic," and "regenerative" should only be used with proper qualifying information.
- Companies must provide relevant information when using terms like "natural," "organic," and "pure."
Main Provisions
- Definitions for 'environmental claims' and 'greenwashing' provided.
- Companies must substantiate claims with evidence and disclose methodologies used.
- Terms like "eco-friendly," "green," and "sustainable" must not be used without adequate substantiation.
- Certifications from recognized third parties can be used to support environmental claims.
- Companies must provide clear, accessible information on environmental benefits.
Key Point: The guidelines aim to protect consumers from misleading claims and promote genuine environmental responsibility.
12. Summary: Sustainable Development at a Glance
| Topic | Key Detail |
|---|---|
| NABARD Climate Strategy 2030 | 4 pillars; green financing; Thiruvananthapuram |
| Miyawaki Project | Japanese technique; dense forests in 10 years; 600 trees/plantation |
| Energy Transition Index 2024 | India: 63rd; Top: Sweden, Denmark, Finland |
| WIPO Treaty (2024) | First treaty on TK, GRs, and IP; 150+ countries |
| Ecomark Rules 2024 | Replaced 1991 scheme; CPCB + BIS; 3 years validity |
| Bio-Bitumen | First NH-44 Nagpur; lignin-based; eco-friendly |
| Nano DAP | IFFCO (2023); 8% N, 16% P; <100 nm; liquid form |
| Urea Gold | 37% N, 17% S; 15 kg = 20 kg conventional urea |
| NUE | Kunming-Montreal Framework: halve nutrient waste by 2030 |
| Greenwashing Guidelines | CCPA (2024); evidence-based environmental claims |
Key Takeaways for UPSC
- NABARD Climate Strategy 2030: 4 pillars; green financing; Thiruvananthapuram
- Miyawaki Technique: Japanese botanist (1980s); dense forest in 10 years; 2-4 varieties/m²
- Energy Transition Index 2024: India 63rd (up from 67th); Top: Sweden, Denmark, Finland
- WIPO Treaty (2024): First treaty on TK, GRs, and IP; 150+ countries; disclosure of origin required
- Ecomark Rules 2024: Replaced 1991 scheme; CPCB + BIS; 3 years validity; LiFE initiative
- Bio-Bitumen: First NH-44 Nagpur; lignin-based; eco-friendly alternative
- Nano DAP (2023): IFFCO; 8% N, 16% P; <100 nm; liquid form
- Urea Gold: 37% N, 17% S; 15 kg = 20 kg conventional urea (25% reduction)
- NUE: Kunming-Montreal Framework (2022) — halve nutrient waste by 2030
- Greenwashing Guidelines (CCPA 2024): Evidence-based environmental claims; definitions provided
High-Yield Interactive UPSC Quiz (Sustainable Development)
Q1. NABARD's Climate Strategy 2030 was released in which city?
Correct Answer: C. NABARD's Climate Strategy 2030 was released during the 78th Business Plan Meet (BPM) held at Thiruvananthapuram.
Q2. The Miyawaki technique was developed by which Japanese botanist?
Correct Answer: B. The Miyawaki technique was developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1980s to create dense forests in small spaces.
Q3. India ranked which position in the Energy Transition Index 2024?
Correct Answer: C. India ranked 63rd in the Energy Transition Index 2024, up from 67th in 2023.
Q4. The WIPO treaty on Traditional Knowledge and Genetic Resources was adopted in which year?
Correct Answer: C. The WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Associated Traditional Knowledge was adopted in 2024, with over 150 countries ratifying it.
Q5. The Ecomark Rules 2024 replaced which earlier scheme?
Correct Answer: B. The Ecomark Rules 2024 replaced the 1991 Ecomark scheme and is part of the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) initiative.
Q6. India's first National Highway built using Bio-Bitumen is located in which city?
Correct Answer: C. India's first National Highway built using Bio-Bitumen was inaugurated at the Mansar Bypass on National Highway 44 in Nagpur.
Q7. Nano DAP contains what percentage of Nitrogen and Phosphorus?
Correct Answer: C. Nano DAP contains 8% Nitrogen and 16% Phosphorus by volume. It is produced by IFFCO in liquid form with particle size less than 100 nm.
Q8. Urea Gold has what percentage of Sulphur?
Correct Answer: C. Urea Gold has 37% nitrogen and 17% sulphur. 15 kg of Urea Gold is equivalent to 20 kg of conventional urea (25% reduction).
Q9. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework mandates countries to halve nutrient waste by:
Correct Answer: C. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (2022) mandates countries to halve their nutrient waste from all sources by 2030.
Q10. Greenwashing guidelines were issued by which authority in 2024?
Correct Answer: C. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued guidelines for 'Prevention and Regulation of Greenwashing and Misleading Environmental Claims, 2024'.