CURRENT AFFAIRS

Geothermal energy is the heat energy stored within the Earth. The term “Geo + Thermal” literally means “Earth + Heat.” This energy flows from the Earth’s core to its surface, primarily generated by the decay of radioactive elements (Uranium, Thorium, Potassium) and residual heat from the Earth’s formation. It can be used for electricity generation, heating, agriculture, and industrial applications.

India presented its updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2024–30 (NBSAP 2024–30) at COP16 of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) held in Cali, Colombia – 2024.

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was established at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit. Its primary objectives are the conservation of biodiversity, sustainable use, and equitable sharing of benefits. COP16, the 16th Conference of the Parties, was held in Colombia.

The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is not only the ecological backbone of India but also the lifeline of Asia. Stretching from the high altitudes of the Himalayas to the hilly terrains of the northeastern states, this region sustains millions of lives, cultures, and water resources.

The modern world is transitioning from a “Take–Make–Dispose” model to a “Reduce–Reuse–Recycle” model. The concept of “Waste to Wealth” signifies this transformation — converting waste into a valuable resource or wealth.

In the 21st century, human civilization has achieved unprecedented progress; however, it has also intensified challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecological imbalance.

Electronic waste or E-Waste refers to discarded electrical and electronic equipment that are no longer usable — such as mobile phones,computers, televisions, refrigerators, etc. These devices contain valuable metals (gold, silver, copper) as well as hazardous materials (lead, mercury, cadmium, beryllium). Therefore, proper e-waste management is not only an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity.

In an agriculture-based country like India, the conservation of soil quality and fertility is extremely important. However, more than one-third of India’s land area is affected by land degradation. This is not only an environmental challenge but also a question of food security, livelihoods, and climate change adaptation.

India is moving rapidly toward urbanization — by 2030, nearly 40% of the country’s population will reside in cities. However, this urban growth is also generating a mountain of solid waste.

India is the 13th most water-stressed country in the world (World Resources Institute, 2023). Major metropolitan cities — Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad — already face severe water stress. In such a scenario, water recycling and reuse have become essential components of sustainable development.