Current Affair Category: Environment & Ecology

The discovery of antibiotic-producing bacteria from the Rajgir hot spring lake in Nalanda, Bihar, by researchers at Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), has brought focus to the untapped potential of Indian hot springs as reservoirs of thermophilic bacteria with industrial, agricultural, and medical applications. Key Facts: Research Context: Researchers analyzed microbial diversity in Rajgir hot […]

India’s path to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 has been highlighted as a challenging yet critical goal due to the increasing urgency of climate action. With COP-29 and global discussions on climate finance and equity, India’s strategies, policies, and challenges in balancing development and sustainability have garnered attention. Additionally, the intersection of India’s development goals […]

What is BIPV? BIPV integrates solar panels directly into a building’s structure, such as façades, roofs, windows, and railings. It serves dual purposes: power generation and acting as a structural component. Advantages Transforms building elements (e.g., glass, tiles) into energy-generating surfaces. Delivers long-term savings despite higher initial costs. Utilizes structural features without requiring additional space. […]

Why in News ? The collapse of the Birch Glacier in the Swiss Alps led to landslides and flooding, engulfing the village of Blatten in mud and debris. This incident highlights the effects of global warming on glaciers and the cascading impacts on water resources, infrastructure, and communities worldwide. Relevance : Pre & Mains Prelims: […]

Why in News? The WMO Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update (2025–2029), released on May 28, 2025, has garnered significant attention due to its stark warnings about global warming. The report highlights the increasing risk of breaching the 1.5°C Paris Agreement target, driven by record-breaking temperatures in 2023 and 2024. Relevance : UPSC Pre &  […]

Why in News? The WMO Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update (2025–2029), released on May 28, 2025, has garnered significant attention due to its stark warnings about global warming. The report highlights the increasing risk of breaching the 1.5°C Paris Agreement target, driven by record-breaking temperatures in 2023 and 2024. Relevance : UPSC Pre &  […]

Why in News?  The article highlights the often-overlooked ecological impacts of tropical cyclones, particularly on biodiversity in island hotspots. The findings from the study are timely, considering the intensification of cyclones due to climate change. Relevance : UPSC Pre &  Mains Prelims : Affected species In Indain Islands Mains :   GS 3 (  Environment & […]

Why in News? The Thiruvananthapuram incident highlights a case of coastal contamination, where nurdles—small thermoplastic pellets used in plastic manufacturing—washed ashore after the MSC ELSA 3 sank off Kerala’s coast on May 24, 2025. Relevance : UPSC Pre &  Mains Prelims : MSC ELSA 3/PCB/PAH Mains :   GS 3 ( Env. & Ecology? What are […]

Why in News ? The Centre has further listed 44 rare species and endangered categories of birds and imposed restrictions on their export under the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972. Relevance : UPSC Pre & Mains Prelims: WLPA 1972/ IUCN Red List/ UN SDG 15 (Life on Land)/ Aichi Biodiversity Targets: Mains :  GS 3 ( […]

Why in News ? In May 2025, the Yala Glacier in Langtang Valley, Nepal, was officially declared “dead” during a poignant ceremony, recognized as Asia’s first glacier funeral. This event underscored the devastating effects of climate change on the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region, a critical area known as the “Third Pole” for its vast […]