environment

Nuclear Energy in India, Uses, Advantages and Disadvantages

Context: India has set an ambitious target to increase its nuclear power capacity to 100 GW by 2047, a significant leap from the current 8.2 GW. The Finance Minister announced the government's intention to amend the Atomic Energy Act and...

Ethanol Blending Programmes (EBP), Advantages, Issues and Concerns

Context: The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme in India aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions by blending ethanol with petrol. However, concerns have been raised about its environmental impact, particularly in regions like Andhra Pradesh....

Black Plastic and its Harmful Effects

Context: A recent study on black plastic revealed the presence of toxic flame retardants, sparking concerns about food contamination and potential health risks. What is Black Plastic? Black plastic is often made from recycled electronic waste such as computers, TVs,...

Melting Glaciers and Rising Sea Levels

Context: A newly published study has found that glaciers worldwide have been losing 273 billion tonnes of ice per year, leading to a sea level rise of nearly 2 cm in the 21st century alone. What are Glaciers? Glaciers are...

India’s First Biannual Transparency Report

Context: India is in the final stages of preparing its first-ever Biannual Transparency Report (BTR). This is part of India’s commitment under the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. About Biannual Transparency Report BTR is an official document that provides...

Humpback Whale Accidentally Engulfs Kayaker in Chile

Context: Recently a 23-year-old Venezuelan kayaker was briefly engulfed by a humpback whale while kayaking through the Strait of Magellan, (off Chile’s Patagonian coast). Types of Whales Baleen Whales (Mysticeti) – 14 species Eg: Blue whales, humpback whales, grey whales....

Bacteria-made Band-Aid for Plants

Context: A recent study published in Science Advances has highlighted the use of bacterial cellulose as a bandage for plants. Key Findings of the Study Faster Wound Healing in Plants Small cuts were made on the leaves of two lab...

Lighten the Pollution Burden of Thermal Power States

Context: Despite the commitments to update Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement to the UNFCCC in August 2022, thermal power plants remain a significant source of electricity in India. Key Commitments in India's Updated NDC Adopting a climate-friendly...

Aravali Safari Park Project and Related Concerns

Context: The Haryana government has proposed a 3,858-hectare Aravali Safari Park across Gurugram and Nuh districts. About Aravali Safari Park Project It is a proposed wildlife park spanning 10,000 acres in the Aravalli hills of Haryana. The project would include...

Stubble Burning Contributes only 14% PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR

Context: According to a latest study stubble burning contributes only about 14% of PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR and is not the primary source of particulate matter in the region. Key Highlights of the Study on Stubble Burning The study utilized field...