text
stringlengths 12
3.04k
| document_url
stringclasses 356
values | source_url
stringclasses 356
values | country
stringclasses 146
values |
|---|---|---|---|
Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF): z In 2000, WHO established the GPELF to stop transmission of infection with Mass Drug Administration (MDA) and to alleviate suffering among people affected by the disease through morbidity management and disability prevention (MMDP).
z The target set by GPELF in 2000 to eliminate LF as a public health problem globally by 2020 was not achieved. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Despite setbacks due to Covid-19, WHO will accelerate work to achieve this target by 2030. dbGENVOC Why in News Recently, the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG), funded by the Department of Biotechnology, has created the world’s first database of genomic variations in oral cancer (dbGENVOC). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Key Points ¾ About dbGENVOC: dbGENVOC, a comprehensive, flexible database framework, developed with an aim to allow potential users to access, query, browse and download clinically relevant somatic and germline variation data from Indian oral cancer patients.
z Somatic or acquired genomic variants are the most common cause of cancer, occurring from damage to genes in an individual cell during a person’s life. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z A germline variant occurs in gametes and is passed directly from a parent to a child at the time of conception.
Cancers caused by germline pathogenic variants are called inherited or hereditary.
It will be updated annually with variation data from new oral cancer patients from different regions of India and southeast Asia.
¾ Cancer Burden in India: According to the World Cancer Report 2020, India had an estimated 1.16 million new cancer cases in 2018. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
1 in 10 Indians will develop cancer during their lifetime and 1 in 15 will die of the disease.
The six most common cancer types in India are breast cancer, oral cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, and colorectal cancer.
z Oral cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer among men in India, largely fuelled by tobacco-chewing.
Zika Virus Disease Why in News Recently, Zika Virus Disease (ZVD) was reported for the first time in Kerala. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
72 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Key Points ¾ About: Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that was first identified in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys.
It was later identified in humans in 1952 in Uganda and the United Republic of Tanzania.
¾ Transmission: ZVD is caused by a virus transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes (AM), mainly Aedes aegypti.
z This is the same mosquito that transmits dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Zika virus is also transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy, through sexual contact, transfusion of blood and blood products, and organ transplantation.
¾ Symptoms: Symptoms are generally mild and include fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise or headache.
Most people with Zika virus infection do not develop symptoms. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause infants to be born with microcephaly (smaller than normal head size) and other congenital malformations, known as congenital Zika syndrome.
¾ Treatment: There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika.
Instead, the focus is on relieving symptoms and includes rest, rehydration and acetaminophen for fever and pain. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Related Government Programme/Initiatives: Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme: To strengthen/maintain decentralized laboratory based and IT enabled disease surveillance systems for epidemic prone diseases to monitor disease trends.
National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme: The central nodal agency for prevention and control of six vector borne diseases i.e.
Malaria, Dengue, Lymphatic Filariasis, Kala-azar, Japanese Encephalitis and Chikungunya in India. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK): An initiative under the National Health Mission, has a surveillance for Microcephaly (system for monitoring birth defects).
Dengue ¾ Dengue is transmitted by several species of mosquito within the genus Aedes.
¾ Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle, and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash that is similar to measles.
¾ The dengue vaccine CYD-TDV or Dengvaxia has been approved in about 20 countries. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Chikungunya ¾ Chikungunya is caused by a mosquito-borne virus.
¾ It is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.
¾ Its symptoms are characterized by abrupt fever and severe joint pain, often in hands and feet, and may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling or rash.
¾ There is no specific antiviral drug treatment for chikungunya.
¾ There is no commercial chikungunya vaccine.
Yellow Fever ¾ It is an acute viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The “yellow” in the name refers to the jaundice that affects some patients.
¾ Symptoms of yellow fever include fever, headache, jaundice, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.
¾ Yellow fever vaccine which is known as 17D and according to the World Health Organization (WHO) also it is safe and affordable.
However, there are reports of multisystem organ failure following vaccination. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Covid-19 Vaccine Booster Shots Why in News Recently, Pfizer and BioNTech have announced that they would seek regulatory authorization for a third booster dose of their Covid-19 vaccine (BNT162b2).
¾ This development comes amid the global spread of highly transmissible Delta strain of Covid-19.
Key Points ¾ Booster Shots: A booster is a means of strengthening one’s immune system against a particular pathogen. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 73 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com It may be exactly the same original vaccine, in which case its goal is to increase the magnitude of protection by producing more antibodies.
Scientists can also tweak what goes into the booster if they are aiming to protect people from a new variant — a version of the virus that’s mutated significantly from the original version people were vaccinated against.
These shots are only for the fully-vaccinated. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
These shots are only for the fully-vaccinated.
¾ Need: These boosters will be particularly helpful for the elderly and immunocompromised people whose bodies were unable to mount a robust protection against the virus following the first two shots.
Secondly, if there are studies showing that a new variant can sneak past the antibodies created by a specific vaccine, the need of a tweaked booster shot arises then. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Concerns: Booster shots are yet to get a nod from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
In fact, the WHO has expressed caution in encouraging third doses.
Such a recommendation is unnecessary and premature given the paucity of data on booster shots and the fact that high-risk individuals in much of the world still haven’t been fully vaccinated. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Lambda Variant of Covid-19 Why in News After the cases of Delta Variant of Covid-19 continuously rising, a new variant called Lambda Variant (LV) is emerging as a new threat.
¾ Lambda Variant is dominant in Peru, India has not yet reported any case of LV.
Key Points ¾ About: The strain was first identified in Peru in December 2020.
Lambda is the dominant variant in the South American country with 81% samples found to be carrying it. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Until recently, it was largely concentrated in a handful of South American countries, including Ecuador and Argentina, but since April it has been detected in more than 25 Countries.
Previously known by its Formal Scientific Name C.37, the World Health Organisation (WHO) designated this variant seventh and the newest Variant of Interest (VOI).
z Another four have been designated as ‘variants of concern’. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Concerns: LV has at least seven significant mutations in the spike protein (the Delta variant has three) which could have a range of implications, including the possibility of increased transmissibility or enhanced resistance to antibodies, created either through natural infection or vaccination.
z It is the coronavirus spike protein that binds to a human protein to initiate the process of infection. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The LV has greater infectivity than the Alpha and Gamma variants (known to have originated in the UK and Brazil respectively).
A study also reported decreased effectiveness of the Chinese Sinovac vaccine (Coronavac) against the Lambda variant.
Kappa Variant: Covid-19 Why in News Recently, two cases of the Kappa variant of Covid-19 have been recorded in Uttar Pradesh (UP). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Kappa is one of the two Covid-19 variants, the other being Delta, first identified in India.
¾ Earlier a new variant Lambda was reported from Peru.
Key Points ¾ About: As India raised objection over the B.1.617.1 mutant of the novel coronavirus being termed an “Indian Variant”, the WHO had named this variant ‘Kappa’ and B.1.617.2 ‘Delta’ just as it named various variants of the coronavirus using Greek alphabets. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z The Delta and Kappa variants are actually siblings, the direct descendants of a variant 74 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com that earlier used to be referred to as the double mutant, or B.1.617.
It is still listed among ‘variants of interest’ and not ‘variants of concern’ by the WHO. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Variants of Interest: They are SARS-CoV-2 variants with genetic changes that are predicted or known to affect virus characteristics such as transmissibility, disease severity, immune escape, diagnostic or therapeutic escape.
Examples: Lambda, Iota, Eta and Kappa variants. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Examples: Lambda, Iota, Eta and Kappa variants.
¾ Variant of Concern: A variant for which there is evidence of an increase in transmissibility, more severe disease (e.g., increased hospitalizations or deaths), significant reduction in neutralization by antibodies generated during previous infection or vaccination, reduced effectiveness of treatments or vaccines, or diagnostic detection failures.
Examples: Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta variants. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Examples: Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta variants.
Fly Ash Why in News National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Limited has invited Expression of Interest (EOI) for sale of fly ash, in its endeavour to achieve 100% utilization of fly ash, from the designated plants of the Middle East and other regions.
¾ Fly Ash is a byproduct from burning of coal in the thermal power generation.
Key Points ¾ Fly Ash: About: z It is called fly ash because it is transported from the combustion chamber by exhaust gases. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z It is collected from the exhaust gases by electrostatic precipitators or bag filters.
An electrostatic precipitator (ESP) is defined as a filtration device that is used to remove fine particles like smoke and fine dust from the flowing gas.
It is the commonly used device for air pollution control.
Composition: z Fly ash includes substantial amounts of silicon dioxide (SiO2), aluminium oxide (Al2O3), ferric oxide (Fe2O3) and calcium oxide (CaO). | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Properties: z Resemble Portland cement but is chemically different.
Portland cement is a binding material in the form of a finely ground powder that is manufactured by burning and grinding a mixture of limestone and clay.
Its chemical composition includes calcium silicates, calcium aluminate and calcium aluminoferrite.
z Exhibit cementitious properties.
A cementitious material is one that hardens when mixed with water. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Uses: z It is used in concrete and cement products, road base, metal recovery, and mineral filler among others.
Harmful Effects: z Fly ash particles are toxic air pollutants.
They can trigger heart disease, cancer, respiratory diseases and stroke.
z When combined with water they cause leaching of heavy metals in ground water.
z It also pollutes the soil, and affects the root development system of trees. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Fly Ash Utilisation: NTPC has collaborated with Cement manufacturers around the country to supply Fly Ash.
To promote the use of Fly Ash bricks in building construction, NTPC has set up Fly Ash brick manufacturing Plants at its Coal based Thermal Power Plants.
z These bricks are being utilized in Plants as well as township construction activities exclusively.
z On average, 60 million Fly Ash bricks are being manufactured annually by NTPCs own Fly Ash brick Plants. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
As per the MoEF&CC directives, NTPC stations must keep at least 20% of total Fly Ash produced in reserve for the issue to Fly Ash brick/ blocks/ tiles manufacturers and issuing Fly Ash free of cost to them.
CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 75 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com z About 9% of the total Fly Ash produced in NTPCs stations, is being utilized by Fly Ash bricks/ blocks and tiles manufacturing units annually. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
During the year 2020-21, almost 15 NTPC stations supplied Fly Ash to various Road projects and Ash utilization crossed by nearly 20 million tonnes.
Over the last five years the fly ash utilisation has grown up by 80% in the country.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) has focused on new construction technologies such as using fly ash bricks that are innovative, and environmentally friendly.
Even state governments have come out with their Fly ash utilization policies, e.g. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Maharashtra was the first state to adopt the policy.
A web portal for monitoring of fly ash generation and utilization and a mobile based application titled “ASHTRACK” has been launched by the Government.
GST rates on fly ash and its products have been reduced to 5%.
nnn 76 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Right to Repair Movement Why in News In recent years, countries around the world have been attempting to pass effective ‘right to repair’ laws. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ The movement traces its roots back to the very dawn of the computer era in the 1950s.
¾ The goal of the movement is to get companies to make spare parts, tools and information on how to repair devices available to customers and repair shops to increase the lifespan of products and to keep them from ending up in landfills. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Key Points ¾ Right to Repair: The Right to Repair electronics refers to government legislation that is intended to allow consumers the ability to repair and modify their own consumer electronic devices, where otherwise the manufacturer of such devices require the consumer to use only their offered services. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The idea originally originated from the USA where the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act 2012, required the manufacturers to provide the necessary documents and information to allow anyone to repair their vehicles.
¾ Benefits: This will help boost business for small repair shops, which are an important part of local economies.
It will help reduce the vast mountain of electrical waste (e-waste) that piles up each year on the continent.
It will save consumers’ money. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It will save consumers’ money.
It will contribute to circular economy objectives by improving the life span, maintenance, re-use, upgrade, recyclability and waste handling of appliances.
¾ Reason for Encouraging the Movement: Electronic manufacturers are encouraging a culture of ‘planned obsolescence’.
z ‘Planned obsolescence’ means that devices are designed specifically to last a limited amount of time and to be replaced. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
This can lead to immense pressure on the envi ronment and wasted natural resources.
z Manufacturing an electronic device is a highly polluting process.
It makes use of polluting sources of energy, such as fossil fuel, which has an adverse impact on the environment. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Reason for Opposing: Large tech companies, including Apple, Microsoft, Amazon and Tesla have argued that opening up their intellectual property to third party repair services or amateur repairers could lead to exploitation and impact the safety and security of their devices. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Environment and Ecology z Right to Repair Movement z Green Hydrogen z High-Altitude Yak z India’s First Cryptogamic Garden z Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework z Water Pollution by Detergents z SOP for Environmental Violations: MoEFCC z Tiger Corridor in Rajasthan z Lemru Elephant Reserve: Chhattisgarh z Human-Wildlife Conflict z Conservation Plans for Cities along Rivers z Deaths Due to Hazardous Chemical z Anti-Methanogenic Feed Supplement: Harit Dhara z Melting of Arctic’s ‘Last Ice Area’ z Conservation of Vultures z Marine Plastic: Problem, And Solution z Guindy National Park: Tamil Nadu z LEAF Coalition z Black Panther Spotted in Navegaon – Nagzira Tiger Reserve z King Cobra in Tillari Reserve Highlights CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 77 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com ¾ Right to Repair Movement around the World: The United States President has signed an executive order calling on the Federal Trade Commission to curb restrictions imposed by manufacturers that limit consumers’ ability to repair their gadgets on their own terms. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The UK, too, introduced right-to-repair rules that should make it much easier to buy and repair daily- use gadgets such as TVs and washing machines.
E-waste in India ¾ Official Data: According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India generated more than 10 lakh tonnes of e-waste in 2019-20, an increase from 7 lakh tonnes in 2017-18. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Indian Initiatives: E-Waste Management Rules, 2016: z The rules aim to enable the recovery and /or reuse of useful material from e-waste, thereby reducing the hazardous wastes destined for disposal and to ensure the environmentally sound management of all types of waste of electrical and electronic equipment.
E-Waste Clinic: z Aimed at segregating, processing and disposal of waste. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Green Hydrogen Why in News According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), hydrogen will make up 12% of the energy mix by 2050.
¾ The agency also suggested that about 66% of this hydrogen used must come from water instead of natural gas.
¾ Recently, IRENA has released the ‘World Energy Transitions Outlook’ Report.
Key Points ¾ Current Status Worldwide: Less than 1% of hydrogen produced is green hydrogen. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Hydrogen ¾ Hydrogen is one of the most abundant elements on earth for a cleaner alternative fuel option.
¾ Type of hydrogen depend up on the process of its formation: Green hydrogen is produced by electrolysis of water using renewable energy (like Solar, Wind) and has a lower carbon footprint.
z Electricity splits water into hydrogen and oxygen.
z By Products: Water, Water Vapor.
Brown hydrogen is produced using coal where the emissions are released to the air. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Grey hydrogen is produced from natural gas where the associated emissions are released to the air.
Blue hydrogen is produced from natural gas, where the emissions are captured using carbon capture and storage.
¾ Uses: Hydrogen is an energy carrier, not an energy source and can deliver or store a tremendous amount of energy.
It can be used in fuel cells to generate electricity, or power and heat. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Today, hydrogen is most commonly used in petroleum refining and fertilizer production, while transportation and utilities are emerging markets.
Hydrogen and fuel cells can provide energy for use in diverse applications, including distributed or combined-heat-and-power; backup power; systems for storing and enabling renewable energy; portable power etc. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Due to their high efficiency and zero-or near zero-emissions operation, hydrogen and fuel cells have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emission in many applications.
Manufacturing and deployment of electrolysers will have to increase at an unprecedented rate by 2050 from the current capacity of 0.3 gigawatts to almost 5,000 gigawatts. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Indian Scenario: Consumption of Hydrogen: India consumes about six million tonnes of hydrogen every year for the 78 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com production of ammonia and methanol in industrial sectors, including fertilisers and refineries.
z This could increase to 28 million tonnes by 2050, principally due to the rising demand from the industry, but also due to the expansion of transport and power sectors. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Cost of Green Hydrogen: By 2030, the cost of green hydrogen is expected to compete with that of hydrocarbon fuels (coal, Crude Oil, natural gas).
z The price will decrease further as production and sales increase.
It is also projected that India’s hydrogen demand will increase five-fold by 2050, with 80% of it being green.
Exporter of Green Hydrogen: India will become a net exporter of green hydrogen by 2030 due to its cheap renewable energy tariffs. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Benefits of Using Green Hydrogen for India: Green hydrogen can drive India’s transition to clean energy, combat climate change.
z Under the Paris Climate Agreement, India pledged to reduce the emission intensity of its economy by 33-35% from 2005 levels by 2030.
It will reduce import dependency on fossil fuels.
The localisation of electrolyser production and the development of green hydrogen projects can create a new green technologies market in India worth $18-20 billion and thousands of jobs. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Potential: India has a favourable geographic location and abundance of sunlight and wind for the production of green hydrogen.
Green hydrogen technologies are being promoted in sectors where direct electrification isn’t feasible.
z Heavy duty, long-range transport, some industrial sectors and long-term storage in the power sector are some of these sectors.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has circulated a draft cabinet note to establish a hydrogen ecosystem in the country. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The nascent stage of this industry allows for the creation of regional hubs that export high-value green products and engineering, procurement and construction services.
¾ Challenges: Economic Sustainability: One of the biggest challenges faced by the industry for using hydrogen commercially is the economic sustainability of extracting green hydrogen.
z For transportation fuel cells, hydrogen must be cost-competitive with conventional fuels and technologies on a per-mile basis. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
High Costs and Lack of Supporting Infrastructure: z Fuel cells which convert hydrogen fuel to usable energy for cars, are still expensive.
z The hydrogen station infrastructure needed to refuel hydrogen fuel cell cars is still widely underdeveloped.
¾ Step Taken: The Union Budget for 2021-22 has announced a National Hydrogen Energy Mission (NHM) that will draw up a road map for using hydrogen as an energy source. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Indian Initiatives for Renewable Energy: z Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM).
z International Solar Alliance.
z PM- KUSUM.
z National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy.
z Rooftop Solar Scheme.
High-Altitude Yak Why in News Recently, the National Research Centre on Yak (NRCY) at Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district has tied up with the National Insurance Company Ltd. for insuring the high-altitude yak. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ NRCY is a premier research institute exclusively engaged in research and development of yak in India.
It was established in 1989 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
Key Points ¾ About: The Yak belong to the Bovini tribe, which also includes bison, buffaloes, and cattle.
It can tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
z Adapted for living at high altitudes, they have long hair that hangs off their sides like a curtain, sometimes touching the ground. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 79 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Yaks are highly valued by Himalayan peoples.
According to Tibetan legend, the first yaks were domesticated by Tibetan Buddhism founder Guru Rinpoche.
z They are also known as the lifeline of pastoral nomads in high altitudes of the Indian Himalayan region.
¾ Habitat: They are endemic to the Tibetan Plateau and the adjacent high-altitude regions.
z Yaks are most comfortable above 14,000 feet. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Yaks are most comfortable above 14,000 feet.
They climb to an elevation of 20,000 when foraging and usually don’t descend any lower than 12,000 feet.
The yak-rearing states of India are Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.
z The countrywide population trend shows that the yak population has been decreasing at an alarming rate.
The total yak population in India is about 58,000. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The total yak population in India is about 58,000.
¾ Threats: Climate Change: z The increasing trend of environmental temperature at high altitudes is resulting in heat stress in yak during warmer months of the year.
This, in turn, is affecting the rhythms of physiological responses of the animal. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Inbreeding: z As wars and conflicts have led to the closing of borders, the yaks outside borders are thought to be suffering from inbreeding due to the lack of availability of new yak germplasm from the original yak area.
¾ Protection Status of Wild Yak (Bos mutus): IUCN Red list status: Vulnerable z IUCN considers the wild species of yak under Bos mutus, while the domestic form is considered under Bos grunniens. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
CITES: Appendix I Indian WildLife (Protection) Act of 1972: Schedule I India’s First Cryptogamic Garden Why in News Recently, India’s first cryptogamic garden was inau gurated in the Chakrata town of Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
¾ The garden will be housing nearly 50 species of lichens, ferns and fungi (collectively known as Cryptogamae).
Note: ¾ Plant kingdom can be divided into two sub-kingdoms viz.
Cryptogams and phanerogams. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Cryptogams and phanerogams.
¾ Cryptogams consist of seedless plants and plant- like organisms whereas phanerogams consist of seed-bearing plants.
Phanerogams are further divided into two classes i.e.
gymnosperms and angiosperms.
Key Points ¾ Factors Responsible for Location of this Garden: This garden is at Deoban in Chakrata at a height of 9,000 ft. This site is chosen because of its low pollution levels and moist conditions which are conducive for the growth of these species. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Further, Deoban has pristine majestic forests of Deodar and Oak which create a natural habitat for cryptogamic species.
¾ Cryptogams: A cryptogam is a plant that reproduces with the help of spores.
The word “Cryptogamae” implies ‘hidden reproduction’, referring to the fact that they do not produce any reproductive structure, seed, or flower.
80 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Due to this, they are called “flowerless” or “seedless plants” or ‘lower plants’. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
They need a moist environment to survive.
These are present in aquatic and terrestrial places.
Algae, bryophytes, lichens, ferns and fungi are the best-known groups of cryptogams.
¾ Classification of Cryptogams: Cryptogams are classified into 3 groups based on the various structural and functional criteria of the plant.
Thallophyta: Thallophyta is a division of the plant kingdom including primitive forms of plant life showing a simple plant body.
They lack roots, stems, or leaves. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
They lack roots, stems, or leaves.
z It includes algae-like Spirogyra, Sargassum, etc.
z They are predominantly aquatic and found both in marine as well as freshwater habitats.
Bryophyta: Bryophytes comprise a limited variety of non-vascular land plants.
They prefer moist habitats but they can survive in dry environments too.
Example- hornworts, liverworts, mosses, etc.
z They occupy an intermediate position between algae and pteridophytes. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Since bryophytes can survive in both water and land, they are considered as the ‘amphibians of the plant kingdom’.
Pteridophyta: A pteridophyte is a vascular plant that disperses spores.
It is the first plant to have xylem and phloem.
z Ferns are the largest living group of primitive vascular plants.
¾ Other Types of Cryptogams: Liches: Lichens are a complex life form that is a symbiotic partnership of two separate organisms, a fungus and an algae. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Fungi: It is a kingdom of usually multicellular eukaryotic organisms that are heterotrophs.
Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework Why in News The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) has demanded an additional $200 billion fund flow to developing countries from various sources to manage nature through 2030.
¾ It is one of many demands and targets that have been set through 2030 in the official draft of a new Global Biodiversity Framework. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) ¾ The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), a legally binding treaty to conserve biodiversity has been in force since 1993.
It has 3 main objectives: The conservation of biological diversity.
CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 81 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com The sustainable use of the components of biological diversity.
The fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Nearly all countries have ratified it (notably, the US has signed but not ratified).
¾ The CBD Secretariat is based in Montreal, Canada and it operates under the United Nations Environment Programme.
¾ The Parties (Countries) under Convention of Biodiversity (CBD), meet at regular intervals and these meetings are called Conference of Parties (COP).
¾ In 2000, a supplementary agreement to the Convention known as the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety was adopted.
It came into force on 11th September 2003. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It came into force on 11th September 2003.
The Protocol seeks to protect biological diversity from the potential risks posed by living modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology.
¾ The Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization (ABS) was adopted in 2010 in Nagoya, Japan at COP10.
It entered into force on 12th October 2014. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It entered into force on 12th October 2014.
It not only applies to genetic resources that are covered by the CBD, and to the benefits arising from their utilization but also covers traditional knowledge (TK) associated with genetic resources that are covered by the CBD and the benefits arising from its utilization.
¾ Along with the Nagoya Protocol on Genetic Resources, the COP-10 also adopted a ten-year framework for action by all countries to save biodiversity. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Officially known as “Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020”, it provided a set of 20 ambitious yet achievable targets collectively known as the Aichi Targets for biodiversity.
¾ India enacted Biological Diversity Act in 2002 for giving effect to the provisions of the CBD.
Key Points ¾ Background: Biodiversity, and the benefits it provides, is fundamental to human well-being and a healthy planet. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Despite ongoing efforts, biodiversity is deteriorating worldwide and this decline is projected to continue or worsen under business- as-usual scenarios.
The post-2020 global biodiversity framework builds on the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020. z As the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity 2011-2020 comes to an end, IUCN actively supports the development of what needs to be an ambitious new global biodiversity framework. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Purpose: z Guiding Force: It is a new framework that will be the global guiding force to protect nature and to retain its essential services for humans from 2020 to 2030. z Setting Targets: This is a global, outcome-oriented framework for the Convention’s 196 Parties to develop national and regional goals and targets, to update national strategies and action plans as needed, and to facilitate regular monitoring and review of progress at the global level. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Urgent and Transformative Action: The framework aims to spur urgent and transformative action by Governments and all of society to contribute to the objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity, its Protocols, and other biodiversity related multilateral agreements, processes and instruments.
z Capacity Building: It aims to ensure the right capacity building of the communities / governments to take up conservation measures to meet the goals. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
These include the contentious technology transfer to countries that don’t have it currently and also a wide scientific cooperation among countries.
Goals and Targets: z The new frameworks have four goals to achieve by 2050.
To halt the extinction and decline of biodiversity.
To enhance and retain nature’s services to humans by conserving.
To ensure fair and equitable benefits to all from use of genetic resources. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
To close the gap between available financial and other means of implementation and those necessary to achieve the 2050 Vision.
82 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com z 2030 Action Targets: The framework has 21 action-oriented targets for urgent action over the decade to 2030, which includes: To bring at least 30% of land and sea under the world’s protected areas. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
A 50% greater reduction in the rate of introduction of invasive alien species, and controls or eradication of such species to eliminate or reduce their impacts.
Reducing nutrients lost to the environment by at least half, and pesticides by at least two thirds, and eliminating the discharge of plastic waste. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Nature-based contributions to global climate change mitigation efforts of at least 10 GtCO2e (gigatonnes of equivalent carbon dioxide) per year, and that all mitigation and adaptation efforts avoid negative impacts on biodiversity.
Redirecting, repurposing, reforming or eliminating incentives harmful for biodiversity, in a just and equitable way, reducing them by at least $US 500 billion per year. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Relationship with SDGs: z The framework is a fundamental contribution to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
z At the same time, progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will help to create the conditions necessary to implement the framework.
Need of Financial Support: z The framework’s demand for more financial support to developing countries, also the worst victims of biodiversity losses, is the most difficult one to negotiate and achieve. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Adequate financial resources to implement the framework are available and deployed, progressively closing the financing gap up to at least $700 billion per year by 2030. z The financial commitment has to increase to at least $ 200 billion per year.
This includes an additional $10 billion per year international financial flow to developing countries. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Theory of Change of the Framework: The framework is built around a theory of change which recognizes that urgent policy action globally, regionally and nationally is required to transform economic, social and financial models. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The trends that have exacerbated biodiversity loss will stabilize in the next 10 years (by 2030) and allow for the recovery of natural ecosystems in the following 20 years, with net improvements by 2050 to achieve the Convention’s vision of “living in harmony with nature by 2050”.
Water Pollution by Detergents Why in News Water pollution caused by detergents has become a big concern in the global context.
¾ The per capita (per person) detergent consumption in India is around 2.7 kilogram per year. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It is around 3.7 kg in the Philippines and Malaysia and 10 kg in the United States of America.
Key Points ¾ Detergents: A detergent is a surfactant or mixture of surfactants that has cleaning properties in dilute solution with water.
A detergent is similar to soap.
z Surfactant, also called surface-active agent, substance such as a detergent that, when added to a liquid, reduces its surface tension, thereby increasing its spreading and wetting properties. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z Surface Tension is the property of the surface of a liquid that allows it to resist an external force, due to the cohesive nature of its molecules.
They tend to be more soluble in hard water than soap because the sulfonate of detergent doesn’t bind calcium and other ions in hard water as easily as the carboxylate in soap does. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 83 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com Water Pollution ¾ Water pollution occurs when harmful substances— often chemicals or microorganisms—contaminate a stream, river, lake, ocean, aquifer, or other body of water, degrading water quality and rendering it toxic to humans or the environment.
¾ Water is uniquely vulnerable to pollution.
Known as a “universal solvent,” water is able to dissolve more substances than any other liquid on earth. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Some of the causes for water pollution are sewage water, industrial Wastes, agricultural sources, thermal and radiation pollution, marine pollution, invasive species, underground water pollution etc.
Note: ¾ Point Source: When pollutants are discharged from a specific location such as a drain pipe carrying industrial effluents discharged directly into a water body it represents point source pollution. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ Non-Point Source: It includes discharge of pollutants from diffuse sources or from a larger area such as runoff from agricultural fields, grazing lands, construction sites, abandoned mines and pits, etc.
¾ Detergents & Pollution: Bioaccumulation of Nonylphenol: z Nonylphenol, a hazardous chemical present in detergents, is known to enter water bodies and the food chains.
It bio-accumulates and can pose serious environmental and health risks. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z It has been detected in human breast milk, blood and urine, and is associated with reproductive and developmental effects in rodents.
Inhibition of Biodegradation: z Many laundry detergents contain approximately 35 to 75% phosphate salts.
Phosphates can cause a variety of water pollution problems.
z For example, phosphate tends to inhibit the biodegradation of organic substances.
Non- biodegradable substances cannot be eliminated by public or private wastewater treatment. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Biodegradation is the process by which organic substances are broken down into smaller compounds by living microbial organisms.
z Some phosphate-based detergents can also cause eutrophication.
Phosphate-enrichment can cause the water body to become choked with algae and other plants.
Eutrophication: When a water body becomes overly enriched with minerals and nutrients which induce excessive growth of algae or algal bloom. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
It deprives the water of available oxygen, causing the death of other organisms.
In Belgium, phosphates have been restricted for use in household detergents since 2003.
Oxygen-Reducing Substances: z Detergents also contain oxygen-reducing substances (ie, a chemical compound that readily transfers oxygen atoms) that may cause severe damage to the fishes and other marine animals. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Destruction of Mucus: z Detergents are capable of destroying the external mucus layers that protect the fish from bacteria and parasites, causing severe damage to the gills.
Mostly fish die when detergent concentrations are near 15 parts per million (ppm); however, detergent concentrations as low as 5 ppm will kill fish eggs. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Makes Water Turbid: z A few more harmful components of detergents which are anthropogenic components such as herbicides, pesticides and heavy metal concentrations (like zinc, cadmium and lead) can cause the water to grow dark.
This blocks out light and disrupts the growth of plants.
z Turbidity also clogs the respiratory system of some species of fishes.
Pathogens from these toxic water bodies cause diseases, some fatal, in human or animal hosts diseases. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Hazardous for Humans: z The detergents contain suspected carcinogens, and ingredients that do not fully biodegrade.
A carcinogen is an agent with the capacity to cause cancer in humans.
¾ Indian Initiative: ECOMARK Scheme: The Government has instituted this scheme on labeling of Environment Friendly Products. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
The scheme is operating on a national basis and provides accreditation and labeling for household and other consumer products which meet certain environmental criteria along with quality require ments of the Indian Standards for that product.
84 CURRENT AFFAIRS JULY 2021 Note: www.drishtiIAS.com The Ecomark Scheme covers various product categories like Soaps and Detergents, paints, food items etc. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Bioaccumulation vs Biomagnification ¾ Bioaccumulation is when the concentration of chemicals increases within an organism or species.
This can occur when toxic substances are ingested.
These toxic substances are very difficult for organisms to excrete, therefore, accumulate in their tissues.
¾ Biomagnification is the process by which toxic chemicals build up within predators. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
This typically occurs across an entire food chain and affects all of the organisms but animals higher up in the chain are more impacted.
SOP for Environmental Violations: MoEFCC Why in News Recently, the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) issued the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to deal with environmental violations. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
¾ The SOP is a result of orders from the National Green Tribunal, which earlier in 2021 directed the ministry to put in place penalties and an SOP for green violations.
Key Points ¾ Categories of Green Violation as per the SOP: Projects Without Clearance: z Violations’ involving cases where construction work, including expansion of an existing project, has begun without the project proponent having acquired environmental clearance.
z Projects that are not permissible for environmental clearance. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z The permissibility of the project shall be examined from the perspective of whether such activity/ project was at all eligible for grant of prior environment clearance.
For Example: If a Red Industry(Industrial Sectors having Pollution Index (PI ) score of 60 and above) is functioning in a Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ)-I area, which means it was not permitted at the time of commencement of the project.
Therefore, the activity shall be closed. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Therefore, the activity shall be closed.
PI of any industrial sector is a number from 0 to 100 and the increasing value of PI denotes the increasing degree of pollution load from the industrial sector.
It is developed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and used for categorization of industrial sectors in red, orange, green and white categories. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
Non-Compliant Projects: z Projects in which prior environmental clearance has been accorded, but it is in violation of norms prescribed in the approval.
z Projects which are permissible according to environmental law but which have not acquired the requisite clearance. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |
z In cases of expansion of a project, including increase in volume of production, if environmental clearance has not been received, then the government agency can force the project proponent to revert to the level of construction/ manufacturing before the expansion.
¾ Fines: In cases where operations have commenced without the required environmental clearance, 1% of the total project cost and in addition 0.25 % of the total turnover during the period of violation will be levied. | https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/thematic2f/pw_2/1721909124088.pdf | https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/Monthly%20Current%20Affairs%20Consolidation%20(July%202021)%20%E2%80%93%20Part%20IF.pdf | Brunei Darussalam |