Lesson 2.5: Environmental Geography – Biodiversity, Conservation, Sustainability
Environmental Geography focuses on the relationship between humans and the environment, emphasizing biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable development.
Biodiversity:
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Definition: Variety of life forms on Earth – plants, animals, microorganisms.
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Hotspots in India: Himalayas, Western Ghats, Indo-Burma region, Sundalands.
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Importance: Ecosystem balance, medicinal plants, agriculture, climate regulation.
Conservation:
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Protected Areas: National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves.
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Government Initiatives: Wildlife Protection Act, Project Tiger, Project Elephant.
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International Agreements: Convention on Biological Diversity, CITES.
Sustainability:
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Definition: Meeting present needs without compromising future generations.
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Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, biomass, hydroelectricity.
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Sustainable Practices: Afforestation, water conservation, waste management, eco-tourism.
Environmental Challenges:
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Deforestation, pollution, global warming, desertification, loss of biodiversity.
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Mitigation strategies – Green policies, clean energy adoption, sustainable agriculture.
Key Points for Revision:
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Biodiversity hotspots and their significance
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Conservation laws and projects in India
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Sustainable development and renewable energy initiatives
Example Question (Prelims Practice):
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“Which national park is famous for Project Tiger?” → Jim Corbett National Park
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“Which Indian state has the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot?” → Karnataka / Kerala / Maharashtra
