Environment and Ecology

PYQ Discussion

APSC 2023 Mains Materials

Classroom Handout
©Arjun Kumar Paul

B.Tech (ME) Hons., MBA (Marke�ng)

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2023 PYQ UPSC
Q1. What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil
pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?
[150 Words] [10 Marks] [2023]
Ans:
Introduction:
• Introduction of Oil or Petroleum products into Environment
• Mostly in Water Bodies = Ocean, Lakes, Seas, Rivers etc. (also on land = wetlands)
• Accidental Spills or Anthropogenic Factors
o urban runoff
o industrial sites
o operational discharges – such as ships (bilge and ballast water)
• Natural Seeps = Seabed
A. Impact on Marine Ecosystem:
1. Harm to Marine Life – Ruin Fur and Feathers = maylead to hypothermia
a. Can also lead to poisoning by ingestion
2. Habitat Destruction
a. Coral Reefs, Mangroves, Estuaries
b. Block Sunlight and Hinder Growth
c. Disrupt Breeding Grounds and Food sources
3. Disruption of Food Chain
a. When plankton are harmed = impacts food web
b. Cascading effect
4. Long Term Consequences
a. Can seep into sediments and slowly release toxins
b. Can linger for years or even decades
5. Ecosystem Imbalance
B. Oil Pollution harmful for India
1) Biodiversity Hotspot
1. Coral Reefs: Gujarat and Andaman, Lakshadweep
2. Mangroves: Sundarbans
3. Wetlands: Inland (Eg. Dehing Patkai, Loktak)
4. Endangered Species: Olive Ridely Turtles
5. Eg. Baghjan Blowout = NGT-appointed Judge Katakey Committee
2) Fisheries Decline
1. MV Rak Oil Spill near Mumbai – reduction in fish catch
2. Food scarcity and Economic Well Being
3) Tourism Dependence
1. Devastate Beaches

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 2. Cleaning Up Oil Spill long and expensive process
3. Large Economic Loss = Restoration Cost + Lost Economic
Activity during Restoration
4) Socio Economic Disparity
1. Disproportionate Impact on Communities = Vulnerable, Poor,
Weak, Marginalised
2. Depends directly on natural resources for livelihood
5) Human Health
1. Skin, Respiratory and Long-Term Diseases like cancer
2. Water Supply Contamination
C. Challenges:
1. Regulation Enforcement
a. Safety Checks
b. Social Audits
2. Resource Constraint
3. Community Preparedness
Conclusion
Oil pollution poses a significant threat to India due to its potential to cause extensive
environmental degradation, economic losses, health hazards, and biodiversity loss. The
country's dependence on coastal and marine resources, coupled with challenges in regulatory
enforcement and cleanup capabilities, makes oil pollution particularly harmful. Addressing
these challenges requires robust regulatory frameworks, effective enforcement, and investment
in cleanup technologies and disaster preparedness

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Q2. The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles
contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to
traditional combustion engine vehicles?
[250 Words] [15 Marks] [2023]

Ans:
Introduction:
Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining traction globally as a more sustainable transportation
option, offering a significant edge over traditional combustion engine vehicles in reducing
carbon emissions.
Here's how EVs contribute to a cleaner environment:
a. Zero Tailpipe Emissions
i. Eliminates Local Air Pollution – Smog and Respiratory Illness
b. Cleaner Electricity Generation
i. Solar, Wind, Tidal, Biofuel, Hydrogen etc.
c. Higher Efficiency
d. Lifecycle Emission Reduction

B. Key Benefits over Traditional Engines

i. Environmental Benefits
1. Reduced GHGs
2. Less Air Pollution
ii. Economic Benefits
1. Lower Operating Costs
2. Energy Independence
iii. Performance Benefits
1. Instant Torque and Acceleration
2. Quiet Operation
iv. Technological Benefits
1. Innovation and Infrastructure
a. Battery Tech
b. Charging Infra
c. Smart Grid Solutions
2. Smart Features
a. Regenerative Brake
b. OTA Updates
c. Driver Assistance Systems

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 v. Health Benefits
1. Reduced Exposure to Toxic Emissions
vi. Sustainability and Resources
1. Sustainable Materials = Improves Recyclability = Circular
Economy
Conclusion cum Way Forward
It's important to note that there are still challenges associated with EVs, such as battery
production and disposal, and ensuring sufficient charging infrastructure is available.
However, ongoing advancements in battery technology and the expansion of charging
networks are addressing these concerns. As EV adoption continues to grow, their positive
impact on reducing carbon emissions and creating a cleaner environment is undeniable.

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Q3. Comment on the National Wetland Conservation Programme initiated by the
Government of India and name a few India’s wetlands of international importance
included in the Ramsar Sites. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2023]
Ans:
Introduction:
The National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP), launched in 1985 by the Ministry
of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), is a crucial initiative for protecting
India's vital wetland ecosystems.
A. Here's a breakdown of its significance:
Combating Wetland Degradation: India faces a growing threat of wetland degradation due
to factors like pollution, encroachment, and unsustainable use. The NWCP aims to reverse this
trend by promoting conservation and wise management practices.
Policy Framework & Support: The program provides a policy framework for wetland
conservation, outlining guidelines for state governments and offering financial and technical
assistance for implementing conservation projects.
Inventory and Monitoring: NWCP prioritizes creating and maintaining an inventory of
wetlands across India. This data is vital for informed decision-making and monitoring the
health of these ecosystems.
Sustainable Use: The program recognizes the importance of balancing conservation with
local community needs. Sustainable use practices are encouraged to ensure that people can
benefit from wetlands without harming them.
Community Participation: Involving local communities in the conservation efforts by
promoting sustainable livelihood practices that are compatible with wetland conservation.
Capacity Building: Enhancing the capacities of stakeholders, including government agencies,
NGOs, and local communities, through training programs and awareness campaigns.
Policy and Legislation: Developing and strengthening policies and legislation for wetland
conservation at both national and state levels.

B. Key Activities Under NWCP

1. Site Specific Conservation Plans
2. Pollution Control Measures
3. Habitat Improvement
a. Desilting

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 b. Water Regime Management
c. Invasive Species Control
4. Community based Initiatives
a. Local Community
b. Eco-Development Activities
c. Sustainable Livelihood Options
5. Education and Awareness

C. Ramsar Sites in India

a. Chilika Lake (Odisha)
i. IBA and Irrawaddy Dolphin
ii. Brackish Water Lagoon
b. Keoladeo National Park (RJ)
i. Man Made Werland
ii. Former Royal Hunting Reserve
iii. Rich Birdlife and rare Siberian Crane
c. Sunderbans (WB)
i. Mangrove Forests and Bengal Tiger
d. Loktak Lake (MN)
i. Floating Phumdis (heterogenous mass of vegetation)
e. Wular Lake (JK)
i. Helps controlling floods
ii. Maintain hydrographic system
f. Bhoj Wetland (MP)
i. Migratory Bird Species
ii. Rich Flora and Fauna
g. Deepor Beel (AS)
i. Important Migratory Birds

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Conclusion:
The National Wetland Conservation Programme of India reflects the country's commitment to
preserving its vital wetland ecosystems through a combination of conservation, community
participation, and sustainable management. By recognizing and protecting wetlands of
international importance through Ramsar Sites, India not only enhances its biodiversity and
ecological balance but also contributes to global efforts in wetland conservation. These
initiatives are crucial for maintaining the ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic
benefits that wetlands provide.

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Q4. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level
rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India and the other countries
in the Indian Ocean region? [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2023]
Ans:
Introduction:
A one-meter rise in sea level by 2100 predicted by the IPCC would have severe consequences
for India and other countries bordering the Indian Ocean Region. The implication encompasses
environmental, economic, social and geopolitical dimensions.
A. Here's a breakdown of the potential impacts:
1. Coastal Flooding
a. Mumbai, Kolkata, Chenai and Kochi
b. Low Lying area – fear of permanent submersion
c. Loss of Land
i. Agricultural and Freshwater sources a threat
ii. Food security and water scarcity
2. Erosion and Habitat Loss
a. Coastal Erosion
i. Loss of Habitat for Wildlife and Humans
b. Mangroves and Wetlands
i. Storm Protection and Supports Biodiversity – threatened
3. Economic Impact
a. Infra Damage
b. Tourism
4. Social and Health Issues
a. Displacement
b. Health Risj
5. Agricultural Impact
a. Saltwater Intrusion
B. Impact on Other Countries

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 a. Maldives
i. 1 M Sea Level Rise = will submerge the country
b. Bangladesh
i. Severe Flooding
ii. Low Lying
c. Sri Lanka
i. Coastal Erosion and Flooding – affect tourism, fisheries and agriculture
d. Indonesia
i. Island Submergence
e. Mauritius and Seychelles
i. Tourism and Biodiversity
ii. Coral Reefs
f. East African Coastal Countries (eg. Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique):
i. Coastal Communities and Ecosystem
1. Disrupt fishing and agriculture
2. Threaten mangrove forests
C. Other General Impact in IOR
a. Increased Storm Surges and EWE (extreme weather events)
b. Coral Reef Degradation
c. Economic and Geopolitical Stress
Way Forward:
1. Policy and Governance
a. National and Regional Policies
b. Example: ICZM (Integrated Coastal Zone Management)
2. Regulatory Framework
a. Enforce EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment)
3. Climate Adaptation Plans

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 a. Formulate and Update National and Regional Climate Adaptation
Plans
b. Incorporate latest Scientific Data

4. Infrastructure and Urban Planning

a. Resilient Infrastructure
i. Sea Walls
ii. Flood Barriers
iii. Storm Surge Protection System
iv. Retrofitting Existing Infra
b. Smart Urban Planning
i. Green Spaces
ii. Permeable Surfaces
iii. Sustainable Drainage System
c. Nature Based Solution
i. Restore Natural Buffers – Mangroves, Wetlands, Coral Reefs
ii. Promote Use of Living Shorelines – combines natural elements
with engineered strucutures to protect coastlines
d. Community Engagement and Capacity Building
i. Public Awareness and Education
ii. Community Based Adaptation
1. Involving Local Community
2. Provide Training and Resources to Empower
Local Communities
3. Building Elevated Homes
4. Diversification of livelihoods
e. Disaster Preparedness
i. Regular Updatation of Response Plans, EWS
ii. Conduct Regular Drills & Training Programs

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 f. Economic Diversification and Sustainable Livelihoods
i. Support Vulnerable Sectors
1. Agriculture & Fisheries
2. Promote Sustainable Tourism
ii. Economic Diverisification
g. Research, Monitoring and Technology
i. Scientific Research
ii. Monitoring & Data Collection
iii. Tech Innovation
h. Internation Cooperation and Funding
i. Regional Collaboration
ii. Share Knowledge, Resources, Best Practices
iii. Regional Platforms for Dialogues and Collaboration
iv. Global Partnerships
v. Financial Mechanism
Conclusion
Addressing the impacts of sea level rise requires a holistic and coordinated approach that spans
policy, infrastructure, community engagement, economic strategies, research, and
international cooperation. By implementing these strategies, India and other countries in the
Indian Ocean region can build resilience against sea level rise, protect their communities, and
ensure sustainable development in the face of climate change.

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Q5. Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control
measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light
of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2022]
Ans:
Introduction:
Global Warming (GW): Global warming refers to the long-term heating of Earth's climate
system caused by an increase in human-made greenhouse gases (GHGs) primarily the
emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and
nitrous oxide (N2O), released into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun,
gradually warming the planet.
A. GW Impact on Global Climate:
1. Rising Temperature
a. Already 1.45 Deg C rise above Pre-Industrial Level
2. Changes in Precipitation Patterns
3. Melting Glaciers and Ice Sheets
a. Rise of Sea Surface Level
b. Coastal Flooding
4. Ocean Acidification
a. Absorbs excess heat and CO2
b. Impact Coral Reefs and Fish Breeding
5. More Intense Storms
a. Hurricanes, Typhoons, and Cyclones
b. Flash Drought or Flash Floods
6. Shifting of Plant and Animal Life
7. Ecosystem Disruption
a. Shift in Climate Zone
b. Migration or Extinction
c. Altered Ecosystem Balance
8. Impact on Human Health
a. Heat related Illness and Mortality

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 b. Spread of Vector Borne Diseases such as malaria and dengue
B. Control Measures to Reduce GHGs: The Kyoto Protocol, 1997
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that was adopted in 1997 and came into force in
2005. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat global warming. The
protocol sets binding targets for 37 industrialized countries and the European Union to reduce
their GHG emissions.
Key Provisions:
1. Emission Reduction Targets
a. Industrialized countries (Annex I countries) agreed to reduce their collective
GHG emissions by at least 5% below 1990 levels during the commitment period
2008-2012.
2. Flexible Mechanisms
a. 3 Market Based Mechanism
i. Emissions Trading: Buy and Sell Emission Permits
ii. Clean Development Mechanism: Certified Emissions Reduction Credits
(CER) – Developed countries invest in emission reduction projects
iii. Joint Implementation: Developed Countries invest in Emission Reduction
Projects and earn Emission Reduction Units (ERUs)
3. Reporting and Verification
a. Must Monitor GHG emissions and Submit Annual Reports for Verification by
Expert Review Teams
4. Compliance
a. Estd. Compliance committee to enforce commitments and address non-
compliance
C. Control Measures Beyond Kyoto Protocol
1. Transition to Renewable Energy
a. Increase share of Renewables
b. Implement Energy Efficiency and Conservation Policies
c. Eg. BIS Star Rating System
2. Carbon Pricing
a. Carbon Taxes

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 b. Cap and Trade Systems
c. Incentivise Emission Reductions
3. Reforestation and Afforestation
a. Sustainable Land Management Practices
b. Sustainable Agriculture
4. Technological Innovation
a. Carbon Capture and Storage
b. Promote EV Adoption
5. International Cooperation
a. Treaties and Agreements = Paris Climate Agreement
b. Facilitate Tech Transfer and Financial Support for Climate Mitigation &
Adaptation Project
6. Public Awareness and Education
a. Mission LiFE
D. Challenges and Limitations
1. Exclusion of Developing Nations – China & India not mandated to reduce
emissions
2. Withdrawal of Major Players – US withdrew in 2001 – weakening its overall
effectiveness
Way Forward:
1. Kyoto Protocol commitment ended in 2012 – Paris Climate Agreement adopted in 2015
2. Broader focus on emission reduction and adaptation efforts
Conclusion
Global warming poses significant risks to the global climate, ecosystems, and human societies.
Effective control measures, as outlined in international agreements like the Kyoto Protocol,
are essential to mitigate these impacts. By transitioning to renewable energy, implementing
carbon pricing, promoting reforestation, and fostering international cooperation, the global
community can work towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting the adverse
effects of global warming. Continued efforts and more ambitious targets are crucial to ensure
a sustainable and resilient future for all.

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Q6. Discuss in detail the photo chemical smog emphasizing its formation, effects and
mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg Protocol. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2022]
Ans:
Introduction:
Photochemical smog is a type of air pollution that results from the reaction of sunlight with
pollutants such as hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the atmosphere. It is a complex
mixture of pollutants, primarily ozone (O3), that forms when primary pollutants react in the
presence of sunlight.
A. Formation:
1. Primary Pollutants
a. Nitrogen Oxides (NOX) – Vehicles, Industrial Processes
and Power Plants
b. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) – Vehicle Emissions,
Industrial Processes, Use of Solvents and Paints
2. Photochemical Reactions:
o Step 1: Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) absorbs sunlight and breaks down into nitrogen
monoxide (NO) and atomic oxygen (O).
NO2 + Sunlight = NO + O
o Step 2: The atomic oxygen reacts with molecular oxygen (O2) to form ozone
(O3).
O + O2 = O3
o Step 3: Ozone can react with NO to form NO2, creating a cyclical reaction.
O3 + NO = NO2 + O2
In the presence of VOCs, additional reactions occur that produce a variety of secondary
pollutants, including more ozone and other oxidants.
3. Conditions Favouring Formation
a. Warm Sunny Weather
b. High Levels of NOx and VOCs
c. Stagnant Air Conditions that Prevent Dispersion of
Pollutants
B. Effects of Photochemical Smog
1. Health Impact:
a. Respiratory Problems

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 b. Eye Irritation
c. Reduced Lung Function
2. Environmental Impacts
a. Vegetation Damage
b. Ecosystem Imbalance
3. Material Damage
a. Building and Infra Deterioration
b. Visibility Reduction
C. Mitigation
1. Emissions Control
a. Vehicle Emissions Standards
b. Industrial Emissions Control
2. Alternative Energy Sources
a. Renewable Energy
b. Energy Efficiency
3. Urban Planning and Transportation
a. Public Transportation
b. Carpooling and Electric Vehicles
4. Regulation and Policy
a. Air Quality Standards
b. Monitoring and Reporting
D. 1999 Gothenburg Protocol
The Gothenburg Protocol, formally known as the Protocol to Abate Acidification,
Eutrophication, and Ground-level Ozone, is part of the Convention on Long-Range
Transboundary Air Pollution (CLRTAP) under the United Nations Economic
Commission for Europe (UNECE).
Key Objectives:
1. Reduction of Air Pollutants

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 a. SO2, NOX, Ammonia NH3, VOC Volatile Organic Compounds = Acidification
and Eutrophication and Ground Level Ozone
2. Emission Ceilings
a. Establishes National Emission Ceilings for each pollutant for the year 2010 and
beyond
3. Integrated Approach
a. To address multiple pollutants and their combined effects
Measures and Strategies
1. National Strategies
a. Technological Improvements, Regulatory changes, Economic Instruments such
as taxes and subsidies
2. Technological and Regulatory Measures
a. BAT (Best Available Techniques)
b. Implementation of Vehicular Emissions Standard – BSVI, BSVI 2.0, BSVII
3. Agricultural Measures
a. Optimising Fertiliser Use – Reduce Ammonia Emissions
4. Monitoring and Reporting

Achievements
1. Significant Reduction
a. Across Europe
2. Amendments
a. Amended in 2012 – Includes new commitments for 2020 and beyond
Conclusion
Photochemical smog is a significant environmental and public health issue resulting from the
interaction of sunlight with pollutants like NOx and VOCs. Mitigation strategies include
emission controls, alternative energy sources, urban planning, and robust regulatory
frameworks. The 1999 Gothenburg Protocol exemplifies international cooperation to reduce
air pollution and its harmful effects, highlighting the importance of comprehensive strategies
and continuous efforts to address complex environmental challenges.

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