UPSC Environment & Ecology

Notes:
Article 6 of the Paris Climate Accord addresses cooperative approaches for signatory states to meet their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) in reducing carbon emissions, remaining unresolved. Article 6.2 establishes an accounting framework for international cooperation and carbon trading. Article 6.4 introduces a UN mechanism for trading carbon credits, serving as the basis for the Sustainable Development Mechanism. Article 6.8 outlines a work program for non-market strategies, such as carbon emission taxes.

Notes:
Indore was awarded the cleanest city for the sixth consecutive year, not seventh. Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra were the top three cleanest states in the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2022. Tirupati alone was recognized in the Safai Mitra Suraksha category, whereas Shivamogga in Karnataka was named a fast-moving city. Thus, only statements 2 and 4 are correct.

Notes:
As per the UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2022, the top seven emitters for 2020 were China, the USA, India, the European Union, Indonesia, Russia, and Brazil. Indonesia (1), Brazil (2), and India (4) are in that group, while Germany and South Africa are not. The correct answer is only 1, 2, and 4.

Notes:
Statement 1 is correct; climate finance follows the CBDR and respective capabilities’ principle. Statement 2 is incorrect because the $100 billion target for climate finance was agreed at COP15 in Copenhagen (2009), not at COP16. At COP16 in Cancun, the goal was acknowledged. Thus, only statement 1 is correct.

Notes:
1. Indigenous Protected Areas (IPAs) are established by Indigenous communities to conserve biodiversity and cultural values, integrating traditional knowledge in management.

• The first IPA was declared in Australia in 1998.
• IPAs cover approximately 6% of the world’s terrestrial protected areas. IPAs encompass about 8.8 million square kilometers.

2. National Parks focus mainly on preserving natural landscapes and wildlife, often lacking direct involvement of Indigenous communities in management.
3. Wildlife Sanctuaries aim to protect specific species and their habitats, generally prioritizing ecological aspects over cultural heritage.

Notes:

• Sada refers to flat-topped plateaus formed over centuries through the geological weathering of lateritic soil and erosion, meaning a large flat area in local terminology. These unique landforms are primarily found in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, particularly in the Ratnagiri district, situated between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats.
• The Sada region is indeed known for its unique endemic flora, particularly during the monsoon when it becomes covered with various plant species, highlighting its rich biodiversity.
• The Sada region is classified as a ‘wasteland’ in the Wasteland Atlas, which poses challenges for conservation and development efforts in the area.

Notes:

• The Lion-Tailed Macaque is endemic to the whole of the Indian Subcontinent: This is incorrect. It is endemic to evergreen rainforests of the southern part in Western Ghats, with its range passing through the three states of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The species is found only in this specific region and is adapted to its unique ecosystem.
• It is known for its distinctive tufted tail and beard: This is correct. The Lion-Tailed Macaque has a unique appearance, characterized by its long tufted tail and prominent beard.
• This animal is one of the smallest macaque species in the world: This is correct. This animal is one of the smallest macaque species in the world. Various initiatives have been undertaken to protect its habitat and ensure its survival.
• The species is Critically Endangered (IUCN) and listed under CITES Appendix I. Correct: The species is Critically Endangered (IUCN) and listed under CITES Appendix I. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I

 

Notes:

• It is bounded by the Brahmaputra and Lohit Rivers in the north and Dibru River in the south. Correct: It is a National Park as well as a Biosphere Reserve situated in the south bank of the river Brahmaputra in the extreme east of Assam state in India. It is bounded by the Brahmaputra and Lohit Rivers in the north and Dibru River in the south.
• It mainly consists of dry semi-evergreen forests and dry mixed deciduous forests. Incorrect: It mainly consists of moist mixed semi-evergreen forests and moist mixed deciduous forests.

Notes:

1. Habitat Marker (Correct): Bisons are indeed known as ‘habitat marker’ species, indicating the health and quality of forest ecosystems. Their presence signifies a well-balanced environment that supports diverse flora and fauna.
2. Social Behavior (Incorrect): Contrary to the statement, bisons exhibit social behavior, often forming herds, especially during migration or calving seasons, which helps in their protection and breeding.
3. The Indian Bison is also known as the gaur and is the largest species of wild cattle: This is correct. Gaur can weigh up to 1,500 kg and stand up to 2 meters tall at the shoulder.
4. The IUCN Red List classifies the Indian Bison as “Endangered” due to habitat loss and poaching: This is incorrect. The Indian Bison is classified as “Vulnerable,” not “Endangered.”
5. The Western Ghats in India is a significant habitat for the Indian Bison population: This is correct. The Western Ghats support one of the largest populations of gaurs.

Notes:

1. Statement 1 is incorrect. Nilgiri Tahr was declared a state animal not by Eravikulam but by Tamil Nadu.
2. Statement 2 is correct. Eravikulam does support over half of the global population of Nilgiri Thar.
3. Statement 3 is correct. Eravikulam is indeed a key part of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site.