Explore a comprehensive guide on the features of the environment, covering key aspects like the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, biosphere, human impact, conservation, and sustainable development, tailored for UPSC preparation.
Features of Environment for UPSC Preparation
Environmental Features – Comprehensive Overview
Meaning & Scope
The environment consists of all living and non-living components surrounding us.
Understanding environmental aspects is a core necessity for UPSC aspirants as it underpins subjects like ecology, conservation, and sustainable development.
Its key domains include atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is a protective gaseous envelope around Earth, comprising mainly 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen, with minor gases like argon and carbon dioxide.
It is divided into layers:
(i) Troposphere – Region of weather events and human activity.
(ii) Stratosphere – Contains the ozone layer, shielding life from harmful UV radiation.
(iii) Mesosphere – Meteors burn upon entry here.
(iv) Thermosphere – Houses the ionosphere, vital for radio communication.
(v) Exosphere – Outermost boundary where particles escape into space.
Hydrosphere
The hydrosphere comprises all water bodies including oceans, rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
It plays a major role in climate regulation and supporting life.
Major aspects:
(i) Oceans – Cover ~71% of Earth and store about 97% of total water.
(ii) Freshwater sources – Essential for agriculture, drinking, and industries, found in lakes, rivers, and aquifers.
(iii) Water Cycle – Continuous circulation involving evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.
Lithosphere
The lithosphere is Earth’s solid shell including the crust and upper mantle.
It forms diverse landforms like mountains, plains, and valleys.
Key features:
(i) Crust – Outer rocky layer rich in minerals.
(ii) Soil – Formed from weathered rock and organic matter, crucial for plant growth.
(iii) Plate Tectonics – Movements causing earthquakes and volcanoes.
Biosphere
The biosphere consists of all living organisms interacting with their environment.
It contains:
(i) Ecosystems – Communities of organisms with their surroundings.
(ii) Biodiversity – Variety of species essential for ecosystem stability.
(iii) Biomes – Large zones like forests, deserts, and grasslands with unique climates.
Human Impact
Human actions have caused severe environmental degradation.
Main concerns:
(i) Pollution – Contamination of air, water, and soil.
(ii) Deforestation – Large-scale removal of forests.
(iii) Climate Change – Long-term alterations due to fossil fuel burning and deforestation.
(iv) Loss of Biodiversity – Habitat destruction causing decline in species variety.
Conservation & Sustainable Development
Efforts to protect natural resources and ensure sustainability include:
(i) Conservation – Preservation of ecosystems and wildlife.
(ii) Sustainable Development – Meeting needs without harming future generations.
(iii) Renewable Energy – Promoting solar, wind, and hydro power.
(iv) Environmental Policies – Laws and international agreements to safeguard nature.
Conclusion
Knowledge of environmental features strengthens understanding of ecological and conservation issues.
It equips aspirants to contribute towards informed policymaking and sustainable practices.