Environment 2014 Flashcards
(28 cards)
What is the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture also known as?
Seed Treaty
Adopted on 3rd November 2001 by the FAO Conference
Which international agreement is legally binding and links environment and development to sustainable land management?
The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
Drafted in 1994 and effective since 1996
What is the primary mission of the World Heritage Convention?
To identify and protect the world’s natural and cultural heritage of outstanding universal value
Created in 1972 under UNESCO
What is Earth Hour?
An initiative where participants switch off lights for one hour to raise awareness about climate change
Began in 2007, held on the last Saturday of March
Which organization is responsible for Earth Hour?
World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF)
It encourages global participation to save energy
What does it imply if a wetland is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’?
Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur due to human interference
It is part of the Ramsar List
What is the mission of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS)?
Conservation of nature, primarily biological diversity through action based on research, education, and public awareness
BNHS is one of the largest NGOs in India for biodiversity research
Which of the following statements about the Global Environment Facility (GEF) is correct?
It serves as a financial mechanism for the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
Established during the Rio Earth Summit of 1992
What is Wetlands International?
A global organization that works to sustain and restore wetlands and their resources for people and biodiversity
Founded in 1937, it is an independent NGO
What are the possible reasons for the decline in the population of Ganges River Dolphins?
Construction of dams, getting trapped in fishing nets, use of synthetic fertilizers
Population is estimated between 1200-1800
Which of the following adds carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle on Earth?
Volcanic action, respiration, decay of organic matter
Photosynthesis takes up carbon dioxide
What are the products of photosynthesis?
Oxygen and glucose
Photosynthesis takes up carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, not adding carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle.
What process leads to the release of carbon dioxide besides respiration?
Decomposition
Decomposition releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.
What is the carbon cycle?
The process where carbon compounds are interchanged among the biosphere, geosphere, pedosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere of Earth.
List the steps of the carbon cycle.
- Carbon is absorbed by plants for photosynthesis
- Animals consume these plants, bioaccumulating carbon
- Upon death, carbon is released during decomposition
- Some carbon becomes fossil fuels
- Fossil fuels are used by humans, returning carbon to the atmosphere.
Which bird is known for feeding on insects disturbed by grazing cattle?
Common Myna
The Common Myna is an opportunistic feeder and has adapted well to urban environments.
What is the habitat of the Painted Stork?
Wetlands of the plains of tropical Asia
The Painted Stork primarily feeds on fish and does not feed on insects.
Where is the Black-necked Crane found?
Trans-Himalayan region
It is culturally protected and revered in Buddhist traditions.
What are Eco-Sensitive Zones?
Ecologically fragile areas within 10 km around protected areas to act as a buffer.
What activities are permitted in Eco-Sensitive Zones?
- Agriculture
- Horticulture
- Organic farming
- Rainwater harvesting
- Scientific research
- Tourism
Which statement about the Animal Welfare Board of India is correct?
It was established under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
Which authority is responsible for tiger conservation in India?
National Tiger Conservation Authority
It is a statutory body established in 2005 under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
What is the primary purpose of biosphere reserves?
Conservation of biodiversity together with traditional human life.
What happens if global temperatures exceed 3°C above pre-industrial levels?
- Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source
- Widespread coral mortality will occur
