6 lakh fake pollution-trading certificates unearthed in three States Sub: Env Sec: Pollution Context: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2023 had unearthed more than 6,00,000 fake pollution-trading certificates What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) certificates? Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) certificates are used by companies that use plastic packaging. Certificates are generated […]
Air pollution harms pollinators more than pests, study finds Sub: Environment Sec: Climate A study by researchers from University of Reading found that: Pollinators including bees, moths and butterflies experienced a 39% decline in foraging efficiency after being exposed to elevated air pollution levels. In contrast, plant-eating aphids and other pests were not […]
Squalus hima Sub: Env Sec: Species in news Why in news? Scientists from Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) recently discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark named Squalus hima from Sakthikulangara fishing harbour in Kerala along the Arabian Sea. About Squalus hima: Squalus is a genus of dogfish sharks in the family […]
India’s first green steel initiative Sub: Environment Sec: Climate change Why in news? A consortium headed by the Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT) has expressed interest to pilot India’s first green steel-making initiative using 100 per cent hydrogen-based DRI production method. The project will be partly supported by the steel ministry. […]
As ocean surfaces acidify, a deep-sea acidic zone is expanding: Marine habitats are being squeezed Sub: Env Sec: Climate change Carbon compensation depth (CCD): In the deepest parts of the ocean, below 4,000 metres, the combination of high pressure and low temperature creates conditions that dissolve calcium carbonate, the material marine animals use […]
IUCN Red List update: Invasive species and illegal trade push reptiles and cacti closer to extinction Sub: Env Sec: Biodiversity Context: The IUCN Red List highlights severe threats to island reptiles from invasive species. Invasive Species and Reptile Declines: The Ibiza wall lizard (Podarcis pityusensis) is now endangered due to a 50% population […]
Central India’s land-use patterns, roads fragmenting gaur & sambar populations, threatening genetic diversity Sub: Env Sec: Biodiversity Context: Land use patterns and roads in central India are disrupting the genetic connectivity of Gaur and Sambar. The study by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) indicated high genetic differentiation, suggesting small populations […]
Massive fish kill in Periyar river attributed to industrial pollution Sub: Environment Sec: Pollution Context: The Periyar River witnessed a severe fish mortality event in May, due to which fishers and cage fish farmers incurred heavy financial losses. Details: Upon inspection, they found that fish showed signs of distress and later died due […]
India to ratify High Seas Treaty: What is the agreement — and its significance? Sub: Environment Sec: Int conventions Context: The Indian government announced it would sign and ratify the High Seas Treaty. High Seas Treaty: The treaty aims to maintain ocean health, reduce pollution, and sustainably use marine biodiversity and resources. Known […]
New study puts spotlight on neglected mammal, bird pollinators Sub : Environment Sec: Biodiversity Context: New research reveals that mammal and bird pollinators in India face significant threats, with hotspots and extinction risks identified. Details: Mammal pollinator hotspots are in the south of the Western Ghats (Kollam and Pathanamthitta in Kerala and Kanyakumari […]