First evidence of industrial fly-ash in an Antarctic ice core
Antarctica is often considered the last pristine wilderness on Earth, but a recent study has found evidence of industrial pollution even in the southernmost continent. The study, published in the journal "Environmental Science & Technology," has revealed the first evidence of industrial fly-ash in an Antarctic ice core.
What is Fly-Ash?
Fly-ash is a byproduct of burning coal in power plants, and it contains a range of toxic metals and chemicals, including lead, arsenic, and mercury. When released into the atmosphere, fly-ash can travel long distances and settle in remote regions, including Antarctica.
The Study
The study, led by researchers from the University of Copenhagen, analyzed an ice core drilled from the James Ross Island in the northeastern Antarctic Peninsula. The ice core covered a period from 1702 to 2017, and the researchers were able to identify a distinct layer of fly-ash in the ice core that corresponded to the period of industrialization in South America.
Conclusion
The discovery of industrial fly-ash in an Antarctic ice core highlights the far-reaching impact of human activities on even the most remote and pristine environments on Earth. It underscores the urgent need for global action to reduce emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Supreme Court Modifies Judgment on Eco-Sensitive Zones around Protected Forests
The Supreme Court of India has recently modified its judgment on eco-sensitive zones around protected forests. In a new ruling, the court has granted some relief to state governments and local communities, while also emphasizing the need to protect the environment.
Background
In 2002, the Ministry of Environment and Forests issued guidelines for declaring eco-sensitive zones around protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. These guidelines aimed to regulate land-use activities within a certain radius of protected areas, in order to prevent ecological damage and preserve biodiversity.
However, in 2018, the Supreme Court of India struck down the 2002 guidelines and ordered state governments to declare eco-sensitive zones around protected areas within three months.
New Ruling
In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court has modified its 2018 judgment, granting some flexibility to state governments and local communities. The court has clarified that the three-month deadline is not mandatory, and that state governments can declare eco-sensitive zones even after the deadline.
In addition, the court has directed state governments to take into account the livelihoods and rights of local communities while declaring eco-sensitive zones. The court has emphasized that any decision regarding eco-sensitive zones should be based on a scientific assessment of environmental impact.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court's modified judgment on eco-sensitive zones around protected forests reflects the delicate balance between environmental protection and economic development. While providing some relief to state governments and local communities, the court has also emphasized the need to protect the environment and preserve biodiversity. The implementation of eco-sensitive zone notifications will require careful consideration of both economic and environmental factors.
World Development Report 2023
The World Development Report 2023, published by the World Bank, provides an in-depth analysis of the role of technology in promoting economic development and reducing poverty. The report highlights the significant progress that has been made in leveraging technology to improve human well-being, but also emphasizes the challenges that still need to be addressed. It argues that technology can be a powerful tool for promoting sustainable development and reducing inequality, but that its benefits are not evenly distributed, and that there are concerns about its potential negative impacts on the environment and social inclusion.
The report identifies several key themes related to the role of technology in development. These include the importance of digital infrastructure, the need for skills development and education, the potential for public-private partnerships, and the need for inclusive policies that address the needs of marginalized populations. The report also emphasizes the importance of balancing economic growth with social and environmental sustainability, and highlights the potential for technology to contribute to these goals.
Overall, the World Development Report 2023 provides a comprehensive analysis of the role of technology in development and offers practical recommendations for policymakers to leverage technology for inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The report underscores the importance of taking a holistic approach to technology policy, one that considers the broader social and environmental impacts of technology, as well as its potential to promote economic growth and reduce poverty. Click for more about Current Affairs for UPSC of 28 April 2023.
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