MEV 014: Unit 16 – Approaches for Natural Resource Conservation

 UNIT 16: APPROACHES FOR NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION


16.0 Introduction

Natural resources such as land, water, minerals, forests, and wildlife are essential for life. These resources are limited and are under pressure due to overuse and population growth. Conservation ensures that these resources are available for future generations.


16.1 Objectives

After studying this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand the importance of conserving natural resources.
  • Learn various approaches for conservation and sustainable management.
  • Know the role of remote sensing, GIS, and organizations in conservation.
  • Explore conservation techniques for minerals, water, soil, forests, and wildlife.

16.1.1 Background to Natural Resources

Natural resources are classified into:

  • Renewable: Air, water, forests, solar energy.
  • Non-renewable: Fossil fuels, minerals.

They are used for agriculture, industries, housing, energy, and transportation.


16.1.2 Need for Conservation of Natural Resources

  • Resources are limited and getting depleted.
  • Overuse causes environmental pollution and climate change.
  • Future generations may suffer if resources are exhausted.

16.1.3 Conservation and Management of Natural Resources

  • Use resources wisely and sustainably.
  • Apply scientific techniques to monitor and manage use.
  • Create awareness and involve communities.

16.2 Mineral Resources

Minerals are essential for industries and economic development.


16.2.1 Mineral Resources Status in India

India has rich mineral resources like coal, iron, bauxite, limestone, and mica. However, many are being used at a fast pace.


16.2.2 Conservation of Mineral Resources

  • Use efficient mining technologies.
  • Promote recycling and reuse.
  • Encourage substitute materials.
  • Control illegal mining and reduce wastage.

16.3 Rangeland


16.3.1 Introduction and Current Status

Rangelands are open lands used for grazing animals. In India, they include grasslands and pastures. Overgrazing and poor management have degraded them.


16.3.2 Conservation and Management of Rangeland

  • Control overgrazing by rotational grazing.
  • Restore vegetation using native grasses.
  • Involve local people in rangeland care.

16.4 Land Resource Management

Land supports agriculture, housing, and forests. Soil erosion, deforestation, and urbanization damage it.

Management methods:

  • Zoning laws to avoid misuse.
  • Afforestation (planting trees).
  • Prevent land degradation by proper farming methods.

16.5 Soil Conservation

Soil is vital for growing food. Erosion and chemical use have degraded it.

Conservation practices:

  • Terracing and contour farming.
  • Use of organic fertilizers.
  • Crop rotation to improve soil fertility.

16.6 Water Resource

Water is essential for drinking, farming, and industries.


16.6.1 Water Resource Conservation

  • Rainwater harvesting.
  • Reduce water waste in irrigation (drip systems).
  • Treat and reuse wastewater.
  • Protect lakes, rivers, and wetlands.

16.7 Forest and Wildlife Management


16.7.1 Forest Conservation and Management

  • Prevent deforestation.
  • Promote social forestry and tree plantations.
  • Use community forest management programs.

16.7.2 Wildlife Conservation and Management

  • Create protected areas (wildlife sanctuaries, national parks).
  • Ban hunting and poaching.
  • Use captive breeding and reintroduction programs.
  • Raise awareness and involve local communities.

16.8 Energy Conservation

  • Use energy-efficient appliances.
  • Promote renewable energy like solar and wind.
  • Encourage public transport and reduce fuel consumption.

16.9 Conservation and Management of Agriculture

  • Promote organic farming.
  • Use pest control alternatives to reduce chemical use.
  • Encourage soil and water conservation on farms.

16.10 Marine Resources


16.10.1 Conservation and Management of Marine Resources

  • Control overfishing.
  • Reduce marine pollution.
  • Protect coastal ecosystems like mangroves and coral reefs.

16.11 Conservation and Management of Biodiversity

  • Protect endangered species.
  • Promote gene banks and seed banks.
  • Prevent habitat destruction.
  • Encourage eco-tourism.

16.12 Management of Common International Resources

Some resources like oceans, air, and space are shared globally.

Approaches:

  • International treaties (e.g., Paris Climate Agreement).
  • Cooperation between nations to reduce pollution and overuse.
  • Sustainable development goals (SDGs) to manage shared resources.

16.13 Application of Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques in Natural Resource Monitoring, Management, and Planning

  • Remote sensing uses satellites to observe earth resources.
  • GIS (Geographic Information System) maps resource use.

Applications:

  • Monitor deforestation, water use, soil erosion.
  • Plan resource conservation strategies.
  • Predict natural disasters like floods or droughts.

16.14 Role of National and International Organizations in the Promotion of Sustainable Natural Resource Use and Management

National Organizations

  • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
  • National Biodiversity Authority
  • Forest Survey of India

International Organizations

  • United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
  • World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
  • Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
  • Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

These bodies support research, education, and policy-making for resource conservation.


16.15 Let Us Sum Up

  • Natural resource conservation is vital for sustainability and future survival.
  • India must manage its rich but fast-depleting resources.
  • Conservation methods include scientific techniques, traditional knowledge, and community participation.
  • Remote sensing and GIS help monitor resource usage.
  • National and international organizations work together to promote conservation and sustainable development.

 

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