Environment – GK Questions

Carbon returns to the atmosphere through respiration by organisms, decomposition of organic matter, and burning of fossil fuels or biomass.

Evaporation is the conversion of liquid water to water vapor due to solar energy, a key process in the hydrological cycle.

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria like Rhizobium convert inert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms for plants, a crucial step in the nitrogen cycle.

The phosphorus cycle is primarily sedimentary, moving through rocks, soil, and water, with minimal atmospheric involvement unlike carbon or nitrogen cycles.

Rapid urbanization strains infrastructure, increases waste and pollution, and challenges resource management, hindering sustainable development goals.

The World Commission on Environment and Development, chaired by Gro Harlem Brundtland, defined sustainable development in its report 'Our Common Future'.

Sustainable agriculture maintains soil health, biodiversity, and water resources while producing food without degrading the environment.

Ecological footprint quantifies how much biologically productive area is needed to provide resources and absorb waste generated by a population.

Green buildings minimize environmental impact through efficient resource use, renewable materials, and healthy indoor environments.

Circular economy contrasts with the linear 'take-make-dispose' model, emphasizing resource efficiency and closed-loop systems.

The Triple Bottom Line framework evaluates organizational success based on social (people), environmental (planet), and economic (profit) performance.

Carrying capacity is the maximum population an ecosystem can support indefinitely without degradation of resources.

This definition, from the Brundtland Report (1987), emphasizes intergenerational equity and balancing economic, social, and environmental goals.

The 17 SDGs, adopted in 2015, focus on ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity; space exploration is not a goal.

CPCB advises the Central Government, coordinates SPCBs, and formulates national ambient air and water quality standards.

Appiko (meaning 'hug' in Kannada) was launched in 1983 in the Western Ghats to protect forests from commercial exploitation.

TERI's Green Schools Programme empowers schools to adopt sustainable practices and integrate environmental education into curricula.

Swachh Bharat Mission focuses on solid and liquid waste management, eliminating open defecation, and promoting behavioral change.

Earth Day, first celebrated in 1970, mobilizes global action for environmental issues and is observed annually on April 22.

Public pressure and scientific advocacy led to the cancellation of the dam project, preserving the pristine tropical evergreen forest.