ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

PRACTICAL – 1
Introduction -
Biodiversity of SSCBS College:

• mention the definition of biodiversity

• ecological role of native plants
• description of 5 native and 5 non-native plants along with their pictures and description.
Description includes name of plant, scientific name, native or non-native, uses of plant

BIODIVERSITY

Biodiversity, or biological diversity, refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth.
It encompasses the vast array of ecosystems, species, and genes that inhabit our
planet. Biodiversity is not merely a numerical count of different organisms; it also
reflects the intricate web of interactions and relationships that sustain life.

Biodiversity is often measured at three levels: genetic, species, and ecosystem.

• Genetic diversity refers to the variation in genetic material within a species.

This variation is essential for adaptation and resilience, as it allows organisms
to respond to environmental changes and challenges.

• Species diversity refers to the number of different species within a particular

area or ecosystem. A high level of species diversity indicates a healthy and
functioning ecosystem.

• Ecosystem diversity refers to the variety of different ecosystems present on

Earth. Ecosystems are communities of interacting organisms and their
physical environment. They provide essential services such as clean air and
water, food production, and climate regulation.
ECOLOGICAL ROLE OF NATIVE PLANTS
1. Support for pollinators

Native plants provide nectar and pollen for a wide variety of pollinators, including
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and bats. Pollinators are essential for the
reproduction of many plant species, including many of our food crops.

2. Soil health improvement

Native plants help to improve soil health by adding organic matter, reducing erosion,
and increasing nutrient cycling. Healthy soil is essential for plant growth and
supports a diverse array of organisms.

3. Water filtration and purification

Native plants help to filter and purify water by absorbing pollutants and excess
nutrients. They also help to reduce flooding by slowing down the flow of water.

4. Habitat for wildlife

Native plants provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for a wide variety of wildlife,
including birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects.

5. Climate regulation

Native plants help to regulate the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere and storing it in their roots and leaves. They also help to reduce the
effects of heat stress by providing shade and cooling the air.

6. Erosion control

Native plants help to control erosion by anchoring soil with their roots and providing a
protective cover against wind and water.

7. Aesthetic appeal

Native plants add beauty and interest to our landscapes, providing a sense of place
and connection to the natural world.
5 NATIVE PLANTS
5 NON-NATIVE PLANTS
 PRACTICAL – 2
Introduction -
Biodiversity Assessment of SSCBS College: separate worksheets for the trees and shrubs are
to be maintained, basically you have to find the relative abundance and then comment on it
in detail
 PRACTICAL – 3
Introduction -
Foreign Invasive Species: definition and related stuff, description of 2 species including
name, scientific name, country of origin and negative environment impact.
 PRACTICAL – 4
Introduction -
Socio-economic and environmental impact of wildlife conservation
 PRACTICAL – 5
Introduction -
Precipitation & Temperature trends of Indian cities

ANALYSIS OF THE WEATHER CONDITIONS BETWEEN 2 CITIES FOR THE PAST 30 YEARS

1. DARJEELING

MEAN MINIMUM RAINFALL

DARJEELING 30 year temprature MEAN
MINIMUM

Nov
Sep
Jul
May
Mar
Jan
0 5 10 15

As can be seen in the above graph the months winter mainly being January, experiences the lowest
amount of rainfall.
 MEAN MAXIMUM RAINFALL

DARJEELING 30 year temprature MEAN

MAXIMIUM

Nov
Sep
Jul
May
Mar
Jan
0 5 10 15 20 25

As can be seen in the above graph the months of monsoon which are mainly July, August experience
the highest rainfall.

TOTAL RAINFALL

DARJEELING 30 year temprature

RAINFALL(mm)

Nov
Sep
Jul
May
Mar
Jan
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700

As can be inferred from the above graph, months of monsoon; July and August experience the
highest amount of rainfall and the months of winter mainly being January and December
experience the lowest amount of rainfall
 2. JODHPUR

MEAN MINIMUM RANIFALL

JODHPUR 30 year temprature MEAN

MINIMUN

Nov
Sep
Jul
May
Mar
Jan
0 5 10 15 20 25 30

As can be seen in the above graph the month of winter mainly being January, experiences the lowest
amount of rainfall.
 MEAN MAXIMUM RAINFALL

JODHPUR 30 year temprature MEAN

MAXIMUM

Nov
Sep
Jul
May
Mar
Jan
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45

As can be seen in the above graph the months of April and May experience the highest rainfall.

TOTAL RAINFALL

JODHPUR 30 year temprature

RAINFALL(mm)

Nov
Sep
Jul
May
Mar
Jan
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140

As can be inferred from the above graph, months of monsoon; July and August experience the
highest amount of rainfall and the months of winter mainly being October and November
experience the lowest amount of rainfall
 COMPARISON

COMPARISON IN TERMS OF MEAN MINIMUM

MEAN MIN COMPARISION

30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

MEAN MINIMUN DARJEELING MEAN MINIMUN JODHPUR

As can be seen from the graph Darjeeling experiences lower Mean Temperature as compared to
Jodhpur.
 COMPARISON IN TERMS OF MEAN MAXIMUM

MEAN MAX COMPARISION

50

40

30

20

10

0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

MEAN MAXIMUM DARJEELING MEAN MAXIMUM JODHPUR

As can be inferred from the graph jodhpur experiences Maximum Mean temperature as
compared to Darjeeling.
COMPARISON IN TERMS OF TOTAL RAINFALL (mm)

RAINFALL(mm) COMPARISION
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

RAINFALL(mm) DARJEELING RAINFALL(mm) JODHPUR

As can be inferred from the graph Darjeeling experiences more total rainfall than Jodhpur.
 PRACTICAL – 6
Introduction -
Online questionnaire regarding impact of climate change
 PRACTICAL – 7

Introduction -
the NDC of a developed country and a developing country.

Sri Lanka and Sweden: Climate Comparison

Sri Lanka and Sweden, two nations geographically distant and culturally distinct, share a common
concern in the global fight against climate change. This comparison explores how these countries
approach their climate commitments within the framework of the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and their respective Nationally Determined Contributions
(NDC) registries.

Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, faces unique climate challenges, including rising sea
levels, extreme weather events, and threats to its biodiversity. In response to these challenges, Sri
Lanka is a party to the UNFCCC, committed to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to
the impacts of climate change. Its NDC registry outlines strategies to reduce emissions from sectors
like energy, transportation, and agriculture, as well as efforts to enhance resilience in the face of
climate impacts. The nation's focus is on sustainable development and achieving a low-carbon
economy.

Conversely, Sweden, a Scandinavian country known for its environmental consciousness, has set
ambitious climate goals. It aims to be carbon neutral by 2045, making it a pioneer in sustainability
efforts. Sweden's NDC registry highlights its transition to renewable energy sources, reduced emissions
from transportation, and innovations in energy-efficient industries. The country's commitment to a
greener future is further exemplified by its investments in clean technologies and green infrastructure.

A notable difference between these nations lies in their respective contributions to global emissions.
Sweden's emissions are comparatively low, thanks to its early adoption of sustainable practices, while
Sri Lanka's emissions are a fraction of the global total. However, both countries recognize the
imperative of addressing climate change, and they engage actively in international collaborations and
funding mechanisms to support developing nations in their climate endeavours.

In conclusion, Sri Lanka, and Sweden, despite their differences in scale and geographical location, are
united in their dedication to combatting climate change. They exemplify the collective global effort
required to tackle this pressing issue, emphasizing their commitment within the UNFCCC framework
and the ambition of their NDC registries as they strive to build a more sustainable and resilient future
for their citizens and the planet.

Climate change
Climate change refers to long-term alterations in Earth's climate patterns, primarily driven by human
activities. It results from the accumulation of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane,
in the atmosphere due to activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.
These gases trap heat from the sun, leading to a gradual increase in global temperatures.

The impacts of climate change are diverse and include more frequent and severe extreme weather
events, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, melting ice caps, and disruptions to ecosystems and
agriculture. These changes have far-reaching consequences for both the environment and human
society, affecting food security, water resources, health, and global economies.

Efforts to address climate change involve mitigation, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
through clean energy adoption, sustainable land use, and lifestyle changes, and adaptation, which
focuses on preparing for and minimizing the impacts of climate change. International agreements,
such as the Paris Agreement, play a crucial role in fostering global cooperation to combat climate
change. Addressing climate change is an urgent global priority to protect the planet and future
generations.

Global warming
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to the
buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane
(CH4), and water vapor, trap heat from the sun, leading to a gradual rise in global temperatures. The
primary driver of global warming is human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil,
and natural gas), deforestation, and industrial processes, which release large quantities of greenhouse
gases into the air.

The consequences of global warming are far-reaching and include more frequent and severe
heatwaves, extreme weather events, rising sea levels, melting glaciers and polar ice, and disruptions
to ecosystems and biodiversity. These changes have profound implications for the environment,
economies, and human well-being. Efforts to mitigate global warming include reducing emissions of
greenhouse gases, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and implementing policies and practices
to adapt to the changes that are already underway. Addressing global warming is a critical challenge
to safeguard the planet's future.
 General points of Comparison
Sweden and Sri Lanka have different characteristics when it comes to their Nationally Determined
Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Here are some general points of comparison:

• Emission Reduction Targets:

Sweden typically has more ambitious emission reduction targets than Sri Lanka due to its
higher level of economic development and historical responsibility for emissions.

• Sectors of Focus:
Sweden's NDC may prioritize sectors like energy, transportation, and industry, while Sri Lanka
might place more emphasis on adapting to climate change and sustainable development.

• Mitigation and Adaptation:

Sweden may have a greater focus on mitigation measures to reduce emissions, while Sri
Lanka may give higher priority to adaptation efforts, considering its vulnerability to climate
impacts.

• Renewable Energy:
Sweden is likely to have a more advanced plan for increasing renewable energy sources,
while Sri Lanka might emphasize transitioning to clean energy as well, but with a different
mix of technologies.

• Finance and Support:

Sweden may commit to providing financial and technological support to developing
countries to help them mitigate and adapt to climate change. Sri Lanka might seek
international support for adaptation projects.

• Specific Targets:
Sweden may set specific emissions reduction targets and timelines, while Sri Lanka's NDC
could have a mix of quantitative and qualitative targets.

It's important to refer to the latest NDC documents and updates from both countries to get a
comprehensive and up-to-date comparison of their climate commitments.

Sri Lanka Salient Feature:

Sri Lanka, an island nation located in South Asia, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and
stunning natural beauty. Here are some salient features of Sri Lanka:

• Geography: Sri Lanka is an island nation situated in the Indian Ocean, off the southern coast
of India. It is characterized by lush green landscapes, mountains, and beautiful beaches.
 • Culture: Sri Lanka boasts a diverse cultural heritage influenced by Indian, Arab, and European
traditions. The majority of the population practices Buddhism, but there are also significant
Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities.

• History: The island has a long and complex history, with a heritage that dates back over 2,500
years. It was once known as Ceylon and was a British colony until it gained independence in
1948.

• Wildlife: Sri Lanka is famous for its biodiversity. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including
elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. National parks like Yala and Wilpattu offer
excellent opportunities for wildlife safaris.

• Tea Production: Sri Lanka is one of the world's largest tea exporters. Its tea plantations in the
central highlands are known for producing Ceylon tea, which is highly regarded globally.

• Tourism: The country has become a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty,
historical sites like Sigiriya Rock, and pristine beaches in places like Mirissa and Unawatuna.

• Languages: Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, but English is widely spoken,
particularly in urban areas and the tourism industry.

• Economy: Sri Lanka's economy is primarily based on agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
Tourism and remittances from the Sri Lankan diaspora play crucial roles in the country's
economy.

• Challenges: Sri Lanka has faced challenges such as ethnic conflicts, natural disasters, and economic
instability. The civil war, which lasted for decades, ended in 2009, but reconciliation efforts continue.

• Cuisine: Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its diverse flavors, with dishes like rice and curry,
hoppers, and string hoppers being popular. Coconut and spices are integral ingredients.

UNFCCC
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), established in 1992, is a
pivotal international treaty aimed at addressing the global climate crisis. Its primary objective is to
prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. The UNFCCC underscores the
principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities," recognizing that
all nations share the goal of addressing climate change but have different historical responsibilities and
capacities to act.

The UNFCCC has served as the foundation for subsequent climate agreements, including the Kyoto
Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The Kyoto Protocol, adopted in 1997, established binding emission
reduction targets for developed countries. In contrast, the Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, is a more
inclusive and ambitious approach, with nearly all nations making voluntary commitments to reduce
emissions and enhance resilience. This agreement's universal acceptance marked a historic moment
in climate diplomacy.

Annual conferences of the parties (COP) provide a platform for countries to negotiate, review progress,
and address emerging climate challenges. While these agreements represent significant milestones,
they face challenges in achieving their goals, particularly regarding limiting global warming to well
below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Climate finance and technology transfer also
remain contentious issues.

In conclusion, the UNFCCC and its associated agreements have been critical in the global effort to
combat climate change. However, achieving the goals set in these agreements demands increased
ambition, international collaboration, and sustained commitment to protect our planet from the
devastating impacts of climate change. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC), established in 1992, is a pivotal international treaty aimed at addressing the global climate
crisis. Its primary objective is to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. The
UNFCCC underscores the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities and respective
capabilities," recognizing that all nations share the goal of addressing climate change but have different
historical responsibilities and capacities to act.

The UNFCCC has served as the foundation for subsequent climate agreements, including the Kyoto
Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The Kyoto Protocol, adopted in 1997, established binding emission
reduction targets for developed countries. In contrast, the Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, is a more
inclusive and ambitious approach, with nearly all nations making voluntary commitments to reduce
emissions and enhance resilience. This agreement's universal acceptance marked a historic moment
in climate diplomacy.

Annual conferences of the parties (COP) provide a platform for countries to negotiate, review progress,
and address emerging climate challenges. While these agreements represent significant milestones,
they face challenges in achieving their goals, particularly regarding limiting global warming to well
below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Climate finance and technology transfer also
remain contentious issues.
In conclusion, the UNFCCC and its associated agreements have been critical in the global effort to
combat climate change. However, achieving the goals set in these agreements demands increased
ambition, international collaboration, and sustained commitment to protect our planet from the
devastating impacts of climate change.

Sri Lanka's NDC

Sri Lanka's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) is a critical component of the country's
commitment to addressing climate change. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Sri Lanka
submitted its NDC in December 2020, which outlines its goals and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Sri Lanka's NDC primarily focuses on mitigating climate change by reducing emissions from various
sectors. The key objectives include reducing emissions by 30% below the Business As Usual (BAU)
scenario by 2030. The sectors targeted for emission reductions include energy, industry, transport, and
waste management.

In the energy sector, Sri Lanka aims to increase the share of renewable energy sources, such as solar,
wind, and hydropower, in its energy mix. The country plans to enhance energy efficiency, reduce fossil
fuel dependency, and promote sustainable practices.

The industrial sector aims to adopt cleaner and more energy-efficient technologies. This includes
implementing energy efficiency measures, reducing emissions from industrial processes, and
promoting sustainable practices in manufacturing.

Sri Lanka's transport sector is a significant contributor to emissions, and the NDC outlines plans to
promote public transportation, electric vehicles, and sustainable urban planning to reduce emissions
from this sector.

Waste management is another area of focus in the NDC. Sri Lanka intends to improve waste collection,
disposal, and recycling processes to reduce emissions from the decomposition of organic waste in
landfills.

Sri Lanka also recognizes the importance of adaptation to climate change. The NDC includes strategies
to enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities and ecosystems. This includes measures to
address water scarcity, protect coastal areas from sea-level rise, and improve disaster preparedness.
It's worth noting that Sri Lanka's NDC is aligned with its national development goals, particularly those
outlined in the Vision 2030 policy framework. The country seeks international support, including
financial and technical assistance, to achieve its NDC targets.

Please note that the information provided here is based on data available up to January 2022, and
there may have been developments or updates to Sri Lanka's NDC since then. For the most current
information, I recommend checking with official sources or the United Nations Framework Convention
on the Climate Change (UNFCCC) website.

SWEDEN'S NDC
Sweden's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) included several key components:
• Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Targets: Sweden committed to reducing its greenhouse
gas emissions by 63% below 1990 levels by the year 2030. This is a substantial reduction target
and reflects Sweden's ambitious efforts to combat climate change.
• Carbon Neutrality Goal: In addition to the 2030 target, Sweden has set a longer-term goal of
achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2045. This means that any remaining
emissions will need to be balanced by activities that remove or reduce an equivalent amount
of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.
• Renewable Energy and Transition to Low-Carbon Technologies: Sweden has been actively
working towards increasing the share of renewable energy sources in its energy mix. This
includes investments in wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, as well as advancements in
energy-efficient technologies.
• Sustainable Transport and Urban Planning: Sweden has been focusing on sustainable
transportation solutions, such as electrification of vehicles and improvements in public
transportation. Additionally, urban planning strategies aim to create more walkable and bike-
friendly cities.
• Forest Management and Land Use: Sweden places importance on sustainable forest
management and land use practices. Forests play a crucial role in sequestering carbon dioxide
and are integral to Sweden's efforts to achieve its climate goals.
• International Cooperation and Climate Finance: Sweden actively participates in international
climate negotiations and contributes to climate finance initiatives to support developing
countries in their own climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.
Please note that these details are based on information available up until January 2022. For
the most up-to-date and specific information on Sweden's NDCs, I recommend consulting
official government sources or recent climate reports.
 Salient features of Sweden
Sweden is a Nordic nation in Northern Europe that is renowned for its progressive policies,
excellent standard of living, and distinctive fusion of modernity and heritage. Here are some
noteworthy characteristics of Sweden:

• Geography: The largest nation in Northern Europe, Sweden is known for its varied topography
of lakes, woods, and a lengthy coastline that runs along the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia.
• Welfare State: Sweden is well known for its extensive welfare system, which offers its people
free social services, healthcare, and education. In worldwide indices of quality of living, it
constantly scores highly.
• Social Equality: Sweden promotes social equality and gender equity. It is known for its
progressive policies on gender, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental sustainability.
• Nobel Prizes: The Nobel Prizes, including the Nobel Peace Prize, were established by Alfred
Nobel, a Swedish inventor and philanthropist. These prestigious awards are presented
annually in Stockholm and Oslo.
• Innovation: Sweden is home to several globally recognized companies, particularly in the fields
of technology, engineering, and design. Brands like IKEA, Volvo, and Spotify originate from
Sweden.
• Education: The Swedish education system is highly regarded, with a focus on critical thinking
and creativity. Many universities offer tuition-free education to EU/EEA students.
• Language: Swedish is the official language, but English is widely spoken, making it easy for
foreigners to communicate and work in Sweden.
• Nature and Outdoor Activities: Sweden offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities,
including hiking, skiing, and exploring the northern lights in Lapland.
• Cuisine: Swedish cuisine features dishes like meatballs, herring, and gravlax. The fika tradition
involves taking a coffee break with pastries.
• Government: Sweden is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of
government. The Swedish monarch has a primarily ceremonial role, while the country is
governed by elected officials.
PRACTICAL – 8