1.

2 NATURAL RESOURCES

1.2.1 INTRODUCTION
 Natural resources can be defined as ‘variety of goods and services provided by
nature which are necessary for our day-to-day lives’.
 Eg: Plants, animals and microbes (living or biotic part), Air, water, soil, minerals,
climate and solar energy (non- living or abiotic part).
 They are essential for the fulfillment of physiological, social, economical and cultural
needs at the individual and community levels.
1.2.2 TYPES OF NATURAL RESOURCES
They are of two types of resources namely Renewable and Non-Renewable
Resources.
1. Renewable resources: The resources that can be replenished through rapid
natural cycles are known as renewable resource. These resources are able to
increase their abundance through reproduction and utilization of simple
substances.
Ex: Plants, (crops and forests) and animals.
 Some examples of renewable resources though they do not have life cycle but
can be recycled.
Ex: Wood and wood-products, pulp products, natural rubber, fibers
(e.g. Cotton, jute, animal wool, silk and synthetic fibers) and leather.
 In addition to these resources, water and soil are also classified as renewable
resources.
 Solar energy although having a finite life, as a special case, is considered as a
renewable resource in as much as solar stocks is inexhaustible on the human
scale.
2. Non renewable resources: The resources that cannot be replenished through
natural processes are known as non-renewable resources. These are available in
limited amounts, which cannot be increased. These resources include fossil fuels
(petrol, coal etc.), metals (iron, copper, gold, silver, lead, zinc etc.), minerals
and salts (carbonates, phosphates, nitrates etc.).Once a non-renewable
resource is consumed, it is gone forever.

Environmental Science 8
QQQQ
AITT & H&S
  Non-renewable resources can further be divided into two categories, viz.
A) Recyclable and
B) Non-recyclable

A) Recyclable: These are non-renewable resources, which can be collected

after they are used and can be recycled. These are mainly the non-energy
mineral resources, which occur in the earth’s crust (Ex: Ores of aluminum,
copper, mercury etc.) and deposits of fertilizer nutrients (e.g. Phosphate sock
and potassium and minerals used in their natural state (asbestos, clay, mica
etc.)
B) Non-recyclable: These are non-renewable resources, which cannot be
recycled in any way.
Ex: Fossil fuels and uranium, which provide 90 per cent of our energy
requirements
1.2.3 NATURAL RESOURCES AND ASSOCIATED PROBLEMS:
 The main problem associated with natural resources is unequal consumption.
 A major part of natural resources are consumed in the ‘developed’ world. The
‘developing nations’ also over use many resources because of their greater human
population. However, the consumption of resources per capita (per individual) of
the developed countries is up to 50 times greater than in most developing
countries.
 Advanced countries produce over 75% of global industrial waste and greenhouse
gases.
 Energy from fossil fuels consumed in relatively much greater quantities in
developed countries. Their per capita consumption of food too is much greater as
well as their waste.

1.2.4 FOREST RESOURCES

A forest can be defined as a biotic community predominant of trees, shrubs or any other
woody vegetation usually in a closed canopy. It is derived from latin word ‘foris’ means
‘outside’. India’s Forest Cover is 6,76,000 sq.km (20.55% of geographic area). Scientists
estimate that India should ideally have 33% of its land under forests. Today we only have

Environmental Science 9 ffffffffff

AITT & H&S
 about 12% thus we need not only to protect our existing forests but also to increase our
forest cover.
1.2.4.1 FUNCTIONS OF FOREST
1. It performs very important function both to human and to nature.
2. They are habitats to millions of plants, animals and wild life.
3. They recycle rain water.
4. They remove pollutant from air.
5. They control water quality.
6. They moderate temperature and weather.
7. They influence soil condition and prevent soil erosion.

1.2.4.2 USES OF FOREST

1. Commercial uses
2. Ecological uses
1. Commercial uses:
i. Wood – used as a fuel
ii. Supply wood for various industries – Raw materials as pulp, paper, furniture
timber etc.
iii. Minor forest products – gum, dyes, resins
iv. Many plants – Medicines
v. Supply variety of animal products – honey. Ivory, horns etc.
vi. Many forest lands are used for - Mining, grazing, for dams and recreation.
2. Ecological uses: Forest provides number of environmental services.
i. Production of oxygen: Photosynthesis produces large amount of oxygen
which is essential for life.
ii. Reducing global warming: Carbon dioxide is one of the main green house
gas. It is absorbed by plants for photosynthesis. Therefore the problem of
global warming caused by CO2 is reduced.
iii. Soil conservation: Roots of trees bind the soil tightly and prevent soil
erosion. They also act as wind breaks.
iv. Regulation of hydrological cycle: Watershed in forest act like giant
sponges and slowly release the water for recharge of spring.

Environmental Science 10
fffff
ffffff
AITT & H&S
 v. Pollution moderators: Forest can absorb many toxic gases and noises and
help in preventing air and noise pollution.
vi. Wild life habitat: Forest is the home of millions of wild animals and plants.

12.4.3 REASON FOR DEFICIENCY OF FOREST:

In India the minimum area of forest required to maintain good ecological balance is about
33% of total area. But at present it is only about 12%. So over exploitation of forest
material occurs.

1.2.4.4 OVER EXPLOITATION OF FOREST: Due to over population, there is an

increased demand for medicine, shelter, wood and fuel. Hence exploitation of forest
materials is going on increasing.
Cause of over exploitation:
1. Increasing agricultural production.
2. Increasing agricultural activities.
3. Increase in demand of wood resources.

1.2.4.5 DEFORESTATION: It is process of removal of forest resources due to natural

or manmade activities (i.e.) destruction of forests.
Causes of deforestation:
1. Developmental projects: Developmental projects causes deforestation through
two ways.
 Through submergence of forest area.
 Destruction of forest area.
Ex: big dams, hydro electric projects, road construction etc.
2. Mining operations: It reduces forest areas. Ex: Mica, coal, Manganese and
lime stone.
3. Raw materials for industries: Wood is an important raw material for various
purposes.
Ex: Making boxes, furniture and paper etc.
4. Fuel requirement: Wood is the important fuel for rural and tribal population.

Environmental Science 11 QQQ

AITT & H&S
QQQ
 5. Shifting cultivation: Replacement of natural forest ecosystem for mono specific
tree plantation. Ex: Teak
6. Forest fires: Forest fire destructs thousands of acres of forest.
7. Over grazing: Over grazing by cattle reduces the cultivation land
Consequences of deforestation (or) impacts of deforestation:
1. Economic loss
2. Loss of biodiversity
3. Destructs the habitats of various species
4. Reduction in stream flow
5. Increases the rate of global warming
6. Disruption of weather patterns and global climate
7. Degradation of soil and acceleration of the rate of soil erosion.
8. Induces and accelerates mass movement / land slides.
9. Increases flood frequency, magnitude / severity.
10.Breaks the water cycle
11.Breaks the nutrient cycle

1.2.4.6 PREVENTIVE MEASURES (OR) AVOID OF DEFORESTATION (OR)

METHODS OF CONSERVATION OF FORESTS
1. New plants of more or less of the same variety should be planted to replace the
trees cut down for timber
2. Use of wood for fuel should be discouraged.
3. Forest pests can be controlled by spraying pesticides by using aero planes
4. Forest fire must be controlled by modern techniques.
5. Over grazing by cattle must be controlled.
6. Steps should be taken by the government to discourage the migration of people
into the islands from mainland.
7. Education and awareness programmes must be conducted.
8. Strict implementation of law of Forest conservation Act.
Case study:

Environmental Science 12 AITT & H&S

 Deforestation in the Himalayan region, involves clearing of natural forests and
plantation of monoculture like Eucalyptus. Nutrient in the soil is poor; therefore soil losing
their fertility, hence, Himalayan area facing the serious problem of desertification.

1.2.4.7 MAJOR ACTIVITIES IN FORESTS

1.2.4.7.1 TIMBER EXTRACTION
Wood used for engineering purposes like building houses, making furniture is called
timber. The products derived from timber have been important to many civilizations, and
thus it has acquired value within these civilizations. Timber extraction results in
deforestation and in the fragmentation of the last remaining forests. It harms valuable
species of trees, birds and wild animals. In spite of this, it is sometimes necessary to
extract timber, so as to meet the needs of a developing country. During the extraction of
timber, cutting, felling and handling should be done selectively, carefully and in a planned
manner, in order to save the remaining forests and biodiversity.
Effects of Timber Extraction
The major effects of timber extraction on forest and tribal people include:
1. Poor logging results in a degraded forest.
2. Floods may be intensified by cutting of trees or upstream watersheds.
3. Loss of biodiversity.
4. Climatic changes such as less rains.
5. New logging roads permit shifting cultivators to gain access to logged areas
and cut the remaining trees.
6. It results in forest fragmentation which promotes loss of biodiversity because
some species of plants and animals require large continuous areas of similar
habitat to survive.
7. Exploitation of tribal people by the contractors.
8. Soil erosion especially on slopes occurs extensively.
9. Sedimentation of irrigation systems, floods may be intensified by cutting of
trees on upstream.
Case Study-Chipko Movement
The world famous Chipko Movement, pioneered by Dasohli Gram Swarajya
Mandal in Gopeshwar brought about a general awareness about conservation of forests.

Environmental Science 13 AITT & H&S

 The first Chipko Movement dates back to 1731, when a village woman named Amrita Bai
led the Bishnoi women against the Maharajas men to prevent them from cutting trees. In
this attempt to save the trees, she sacrificed her life along with the lives of her husband,
three daughters and 363 people. The movement was given this name because the village
women embraced or hugged the trees to stop them from being cut. In 1972, in Uttar
Pradesh, the Chipko Movement was led by Bachnoi Devi of Advani who protected the hill
forests from the contractors axe men.

1.2.4.7.2 DAMS
Today there are more than 45,000 large dams around the world, which play an important
role in communities and economies that harness these water resources for their economic
development. Current estimates suggest some 30-40% of irrigated land worldwide relies
on dams. Hydropower, another important the use of stored water, currently supplies 19%
of the world’s total electric power supply and is used in over 150 countries. The world’s
two most populous countries – China and India –have built around 57% of the world’s
large dams.
Dams problems
Dams are the massive artificial structures built across the rivers to store water for much
beneficial purpose.
Dams are considered a “Temples of modern India”. Dams destruct vast area of
forest area. India has more than 1600 large dams.
Effects of dams on forest:
1. Thousands of hectares of forest will be cleared.
2. Killing of wild animals and destruction of aquatic life.
3. Spreading of water borne diseases.
4. Water logging increases the salinity of the soil.
Ex: Narmadha Sagar project it has submerged 3.5 lakhs hectares of forest.
Effects of dam on tribal people
1. Construction of big dams lead to the displacement of tribal people.
2. Displacement and cultural change affects the tribal people both mentally and physically.
3. They do not accommodate the modern food habits and life style.
4. Tribal people are ill treated by the modern society.

Environmental Science 14 AITT & H&S

 5. Many of the displaced people were not recognised and resettled or compensated.
6. Body condition of tribal people will not suit with new areas and hence they will be
affected by many diseases.

Case study- Sardar Sarovar Project:

The World Bank’s withdrawal from the Sardar Sarovar Project in India in 1993 was a
result of the demands of local people threatened with the loss of their livelihoods and
homes in the submergence area. This dam in Gujarat on the Narmada has displaced
thousands of tribal folk, whose lives and livelihoods were linked to the river, the forests
and their agricultural lands. While they and the fishermen at the estuary, have lost their
homeland, rich farmers downstream will get water for agriculture. The question is why
should the local tribals be made homeless, displaced and relocated to benefit other
people? Why should the less fortunate be made to bear the costs of development for
better off farmers? It is a question of social and economic equity as well as the enormous
environmental losses, including loss of the biological diversity of the inundated forests in
the Narmada valley.

1.2.4.7.3 MINING
The process of extracting mineral resources and fossil fuels like coal from
the earth is called as mining.
Types of mining
1. Surface mining: Mining of minerals from shallow deposits
2. Underground mining: Mining of minerals from deep deposits
Steps involved in mining
1. Exploration
2. Development
3. Exploitation
4. Ore processing
5. Extraction and purification of minerals
The extent of damage by underground mining is more than that of surface mining,
which needs enormous amount of land area for its operation and management.

Environmental Science 15 AITT & H&S

 Effects of mining
1. Pollute soil, water and air.
2. Destruction of natural habitat.
3. Continuous removal of minerals leads to the formation of trench where water is
logged which contaminates the ground water.
4. Vibrations cause earth quakes.
5. Produces noise pollution
6. Reduces shape and size of the forest.
7. Increased risk of landslides.
8. Spoils the aesthetic beauty.

1.2.5 WATER RESOURCES

Water claims to be an important resource. An important use of water in our country
is for irrigation. Besides, water is also required in large amounts for industrial and
domestic consumption.
1.2.5.1 USES
 Is essential for all forms of life.
 Many uses of water include agricultural, industrial, household, recreational and
environmental activities. Virtually, all of these human uses, require fresh water.
 No plant or animal species can survive without water. If water in our body drops by
1% we feel thirst, if it drops by 10% we face death.

1.2.5.2 HYDROLOGICAL CYCLE:

Water from various water bodies

Evaporated by solar energy

Enters in to the atmosphere as clouds

Falls again on earth as rain or snow

Ultimately returns to the ocean.

Environmental Science 16 AITT & H&S

 1.2.5.3 DISTRIBUTION OF WATER RESOURCES

Fresh water resources

Surface water Underground water

Standing water bodies flowing water bodies

1.2.5.3.1 UNDERGROUND WATER

Aquifer: Layers of highly permeable rock that can store water is called an aquifer. Layer
of sand and gravels are good aquifers. Clay and crystalline rocks are not good aquifers.
Effects of over utilization of water
1. Decrease of ground water:
i. Increased usage decreases the ground water.
ii. Insufficient rain fall
iii. Building construction activities sealing the permeability of the soil.
2. Ground subsidence: If ground water withdrawal is greater than it’s recharge rate,
then the sediments in the aquifers get compacted. As a result shrinkage of land surface
takes place.
Problems: a. Structural damages to the buildings
b. Fracture in pipes.
c. Reversing the flow of canals.
3. Lowering of water table: Over utilization of ground water in arid and semi arid
regions for agriculture disturbs the state of equilibrium of the hydrological cycle.
Problem: a. Lowering of water table
b. Decrease the number of aquifers
c. Change the speed and direction of water.
4. Intrusion of salt water: In coastal area over exploitation of ground water leads to
the intrusion of salt water from sea. Therefore that water cannot be used for drinking and
agriculture.

Environmental Science 17 AITT & H&S

 5. Over utilization of water causes earth quakes, landslides and famines.
6. Drying up of wells: Due to over utilization, ground water level decreases much
faster than can be regenerated. It leads to drying up of dug well and bore wells.
7. Pollution of water: Near the agricultural land ground water decreases therefore
water containing nitrogen enters into the ground and pollute the ground water.
Problem: Water which contains excess nitrate content is not suitable for drinking.

1.2.5.3.2 REASONS FOR DECLINE OF GROUND WATER

Population continues to rise at an unprecedented and unsustainable rate; many
more areas are expected to experience this imbalance in the near future.
1. Population explosion: World population is > 6 billion and will continue to increase
significantly during the next few decades - Enormous demands on the world’s limited
freshwater supply. The total annual freshwater withdrawals today are estimated at
3800 cubic kilometers, twice as much as just 50 years ago (World Commission on
Dams, 2000).
2. Overutilization of Surface and Groundwater: Occurs at various levels. Use of more
water than really needed by human beings. Many agriculturists use more water than
necessary to grow crops. Industries in order to maximize short-term economic gains,
does not bother its liquid waste and releases it into streams, rivers and the sea.
3. Deforestation: Once hill slopes are removed of forest cover, the rainwater rushes
down the rivers and is lost. Forest cover permits water to be held in the area
permitting it to seep into the ground. This charges the underground stores of water in
natural aquifers. This can be used in drought years if the stores have been filled during
a good monsoon. This soil and water management and afforestation are long-term
measures that reduce the impact of droughts. The destruction of forests influences the
regulation of natural water cycle. The removal of dense and uniform cover over the
hilly zones leads to occurrence of floods in drainage basins. Nations situated in tropical
climates including India experience disastrous floods caused by the indiscriminate
deforestation of the slopes above the valleys.
4. Hydropower generation: Large amount of water is used for generating power which
otherwise used for human needs.
5. Dams - for Agriculture and Power Generation

Environmental Science 18 AITT & H&S

 6. Rain fall: The erratic and inadequate rainfall results in reduction in storage in
subsurface reservoirs. The building construction activities are sealing the permeable
zone, reducing the area for percolation of rainwater into subsurface and increase in
surface runoff.
7. India’s increasing demand for water for intensive irrigated agriculture, for generating
electricity, and for consumption in urban and industrial centers, has been met by
creating large dams. Dams support 30 to 40% of this area.

1.2.5.4 FLOOD
It is an over flow of water. It happens when the magnitude of flow of water exceeds the
carrying capacity of the channel within its bank.
1.2.5.4.1 CAUSES OF FLOOD
1. Heavy rainfall, melting of snow and sudden release of water from dams. (Flash floods)
2. Reduction in the carrying capacity of the channel.
3. Deforestation, mining and over grazing increase the runoff from rains and the level of
flood raises.
1.2.5.4.2 EFFECT OF FLOOD
1. Water spreads in the surrounding area and submerges them.
2. Cultivated land gets affected.
3. Extinction of civilization.
1.2.5.4.3 FLOOD MANAGEMENT
1. Floods can be controlled by dams.
2. Channel management control flood.
3. Flood hazards reduced by forecasting or flood warning.
4. Flood may also be reduced by reduction of run off by increasing infiltration through
appropriate afforestation in the catchment area.

1.2.5.5 DROUGHT
Drought is nothing but scarcity of water, which occurs due to
1. Inadequate rain fall
2. Late arrival of rain fall
3. Excessive withdrawal of ground water.

Environmental Science 19 AITT & H&S

 Lack of water for the needs of agriculture, livestock, industry or human population may be
termed as a drought. Drought causes serious damages to plants, animals and human life.
1.2.5.5.1 CAUSES OF DROUGHT
1. When annual rain fall is below normal and less than evaporation, drought is created.
2. High population.
3. Intensive cropping pattern
Ex: Maharashtra - There has been no recovery from drought for the last 30
years due to over exploitation of water by sugarcane crop.
1.2.5.5.2 EFFECTS OF DROUGHT
1. Drought causes hunger, malnutrition and scarcity of drinking water an also changes
the quality of water.
2. Drought causes widespread crop failure leading to acute shortage of food and
adversely affects human and live stock population.
3. Worst situation of drought causes desertification.
4. Raw materials of agro based industries are critically affected during drought time,
hence industrial and commercial growth decreases.
5. Drought increases the degradation of natural resources.
6. Drought causes large migration of people and urbanization.
1.2.5.5.3 DROUGHT MANAGEMENT
1. Indigenous knowledge is essential.
2. Rain water harvesting system.
3. Construction of reservoirs to improve ground water level.
4. Modern irrigation technology (drip irrigation) very useful to conserve water.
5. Afforestration activities also improve the potential of water in the drought area.
6. Crop mixing and dry forming are the suitable methods which minimize the risk of crop
failures in dry area.

1.2.5.6 DAMS
Dams made significant contributions to human development and the benefits
derived from them have been considerable. Large dams are designed to control floods and
to help the drought prone areas, with supply of water. But large dams have proved to

Environmental Science 20 AITT & H&S

 cause severe environmental damage. Hence an attempt has been made to construct small
dams. Multiple small dams have less impact on the environment.
Benefits: Dams ensure a year round supply of water for domestic use and provide extra
water for agriculture, industries and hydropower generation.
Problems: They alter river flows, change nature’s flood control mechanisms such as
wetlands and flood plains, and destroy the lives of local people and the habitats of wild
plant and animal species, particularly is the case with mega dams.
Some of the problems are mentioned below.
 Dam construction and submersion leads to significant loss of farmland and forest and
land submergence
 Siltation of reservoirs, water logging and salination in surrounding lands reduces
agricultural productivity
 Serious impacts on ecosystems - significant and irreversible loss of species and
ecosystems, deforestation and loss of biodiversity, affects aquaculture
 Socio economic problems for example, displacement, rehabilitation and resettlement of
tribal people.
 Fragmentation and physical transformation of rivers
 Displacement of people - People living in the catchment area, lose property and
livelihood
 Impacts on lives, livelihoods, cultures and spiritual existence of indigenous and tribal
people
 Dislodging animal populations
 Disruption of fish movement and navigational activities
 Emission of green house gases due to rotting of vegetation
 Natural disasters – reservoirs induced seismicity, flash floods etc and biological
hazards due to large-scale impounding of water – increase exposure to vectorbrone
diseases, such as malaria, schistosomiasis, filariasis.

1.2.5.7 SUSTAINABLE WATER MANAGEMENT

 Building several small reservoirs instead of few mega projects
 Developing small catchment dams and protecting wetlands

Environmental Science 21 AITT & H&S

  Soil management, micro-catchment development and afforestation permits recharging
of underground aquifer, thus reducing the need for large dams
 Treating and recycling municipal waste water for agricultural use.
 Preventing leakages form dams and canals and loss in municipal pipes
 Effective rainwater harvesting in urban environments
 Water conservation measures in agriculture, such as using drip irrigation, control of
growing water intensive cash crops ; control of water logging.
 Pricing water at its real value makes people use it mo re responsibility and efficiently
and reduces wastage
 In deforested areas where land has been degraded, appropriate soil management
practices, making bunds along the hill-slopes and making nalla plugs can help retain
moisture and make it possible to revegetate degraded areas
 Use waste water for activities that does not need fresh water – Recycling
 Adopt mini water harvesting models for domestic usage.
 Protect existing tanks
 Develop systematic water management and adopt strict water auditing
 “Save water Campaigns” for public awareness on water scarcity
 Through rainwater harvesting, community based participatory initiatives and holistic
watershed management.
 Responsible water usage can only be achieved by empowering local communities and
creating local accountability.
 The government should develop policies that protect water resources, promote
sustainable watershed management and invest in technologies that will increase
efficiency in irrigation, industrial usage and improve water harvesting techniques.

1.2.5.8 WATER CONFLICTS

1. Conflict through use: Unequal distribution of water led to interstate and international
disputes.
National conflicts:
a. Sharing of cauvery water between Karnataka and TamilNadu.
b. Sharing of Krishna water between Karnataka and Andrapradesh
c. Siruvani – TamilNadu and Kerala

Environmental Science 22 AITT & H&S

 International conflicts:
Indus – India and Pakistan & Colorado river – Mexico and USA

1.2.6 MINERAL RESOURCES

Naturally occurring inorganic crystalline solids with uniform chemical composition are
called as minerals.
1.2.6.1 USES AND EXPLOITATION OF MINERALS
1. Development of industrial plants and machinery. - Fe, Al & Cu
2. Construction work – Fe, Al &Ni
3. Generation of energy - coal, lignite, uranium
4. Designing defense equipments like weapons and o rnaments
5. Agricultural purposes – fertilizers and fungicides – Zn & Mn
6. Jewellery –Au, Ag & Pt
7. Making alloys for various purposes
8. Communication purposes – telephone, wires, cables and electronic devices
9. Medicinal purposes, particularly in ayurvedic system

1.2.6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGES CAUSED BY MINING ACTIVITIES

1. Devegetation:
 Topsoil and vegetation get removed
 Deforestation leads to several ecological losses
 Land scape gets badly affected
2. Ground water contamination: Mining pollutes ground water; sulphur is converted
into sulphuric acid which enters into the soil.
3. Surface water pollution: Radioactive wastes and other acidic impurities affect the
surface water, which kills many aquatic animals.
4. Air pollution: Smelting and roasting are done to purify the metal which emits air
pollutants and damage the nearby vegetation. It causes many health problems.
5. Subsidence of land: Mainly underground mining results in cracks in houses, tilting of
buildings and bending of rail tracks.

Environmental Science 23 AITT & H&S

 1.2.6.3 EFFECTS OF OVER EXPLOITATION OF MINERALS
1. Rapid depletion of mineral deposits
2. Wastage
3. Environmental pollution
4. Needs heavy energy requirements.

1.2.6.4 MANAGEMENT OF MINERAL RESOURCES

1. The efficient use and protection of mineral resources.
2. Modernization of mining industries
3. Search for new deposit
4. Reuse and recycling of the metals.
5. Environmental impacts can be minimized by adopting eco friendly mining
technology.

1.2.6.5 CASE STUDIES-MINING AND QUARRYING IN UDAIPUR

200 open cast mining and quarrying in Udaipur. But 100 mines are illegal. 150 tons of
explosives are used per month. It pollutes air, soil and water. It affects irrigation and wild
life.

1.2.7 FOOD RESOURCES

Food is an essential requirement for survival of life. Main components are carbohydrates,
fats, proteins, minerals and vitamins.

1.2.7.1 TYPES OF FOOD SUPPLY

1. Crop plants: Grains mostly constitute about 76% of the world’s food.
Ex: Rice, Wheat and Maize
2. Range lands: Produces 17% of world’s food from trees and grazing animals.
Ex: Fruits, milk and meat
3. Ocean: Fisheries – 7% of world’s food

Environmental Science 24 AITT & H&S

 1.2.7.2 WORLD FOOD PROBLEM
1. In the earth’s surface, 79% is water out of total area. 21% land (forest, desert,
mountain and barren land) . Less % cultivated land, at the same time population
explosion is high therefore world food problem arises.
2. Environmental degradation like soil erosion, water logging, water pollution, salinity
affects agricultural land.
3. Urbanization affects agricultural land. Hence production of rice, wheat, corn and
other vegetable is difficult.

1.2.7.3 TYPES OF NUTRITION

1. Nutritious nutrition: To maintain good health and disease resistance, we need large
amount of carbohydrate, proteins, fats and smaller amount of micronutrients such as
vitamins and minerals such as Fe, Ca and iodine. Food and agricultural organization (FAO)
of United Nations estimated that on an average, the minimum calorie intake on a global
state is 2500 calories/day.
2. Under nutrition: People who cannot buy enough food to meet their basic energy
needs suffer from under nutrition. They receive less than 90% of this minimum dietary
calorie.
Effect of under nutrition: Suffer from mental retardation and infectious diseases.
3. Mal nutrition: Besides minimum calorie intake we also need proteins, minerals,
vitamins, iron and iodine. Deficiency leads to malnutrition resulting in several diseases.
Effect of mal nutrition:
S.No Deficiency of nutrients Effects
1 Protein Growth
2 Iron Anemia
3 Iodine Goiter
4 Vitamin – A Blindness

India 3 rd largest producer of crops, nearly 300 million Indians are still under nourished.
World food summit 1996: The world food summit, 1996 has set the goal to reduce the
number of under nourished and mal nourished people to just half by 2015.

Environmental Science 25 AITT & H&S

 1.2.7.4 OVER GRAZING
It is a process of eating the forest vegetation without giving a chance to regenerate.

1.2.7.4.1 EFFECTS OF OVER GRAZING

1. Land degradation
 Over grazing removing the cover of vegetation
 Exposed soil gets compacted
 Soil moisture reduces.
 Desertification - OG leads to poor, dry and compacted soil.
 Land cannot be used for further cultivation.
2. Soil erosion: When the grasses are removed the soil becomes loose and gets eroded
by the action of wind and rain fall.
3. Loss of useful species: OG affects the plant population and their regenerating
capacity. OG replace the plant of high nutritive value with plant of low nutritive value.

1.2.7.5 AGRICULTURE
Agriculture is an art, science and industry of managing the growth of plants animals for
human use. It includes cultivation of the soil, growing and harvesting crops, breeding and
raising livestock, dairying and forestry.
1.2.7.5.1 TYPES OF AGRICULTURE
1. Traditional agriculture
2. Modern (or) industrialised agriculture
1. Traditional agriculture
Small plot, simple tools, surface water, organic fertilizer and a mixture of crops constitute
traditional agriculture. They produce enough food to feed their family and to sell it for
their income.
2. Modern agriculture
Hybrid seeds of single crop variety, high tech equipments, lot of fertilisers, pesticides and
water to produce large amount of single crops.
1.2.7.5.2 EFFECTS OF MODERN AGRICULTURE
1. Problems in using fertilizers

Environmental Science 26 AITT & H&S

 a. Excess of fertilizers causes micronutrient imbalance. (e.g) Punjab and
Haryana deficiency of nutrient zinc in the soil affect the productivity of the
soil.
b. Blue baby syndrome (nitrate pollution): Nitrate present in the fertilizer
causes blue baby syndrome, when the amount exceeds the limit leads to
death.
c. Eutrophication: Nitrogen and phosphorus in the crop fields washed out by
runoff water in the water bodies, which increases the nourishment of the
lakes called eutrophication. Hence algal species increases rapidly. Life time of
the species is less and they decompose easily and pollute the water which
affects the aquatic life.
2. Problems in using pesticides
1. Death of non target organism.
2. Producing new pest – super pest
3. Bio magnification – Most of the pesticides are non bio degradable, keep on
concentrating in the food chain and it is harmful to human beings.
4. Risk of cancer:
a. It directly acts as carcinogen
b. It indirectly supports immune system.
3. Water logging: Land where water stand for most of the year.
Causes of water logging:
1. Excessive water supply
2. Heavy rain
3. Poor drainage
Remedy:
1. Preventing excessive irrigation
2. Subsurface drainage technology
3. Bio drainage like trees like Eucalyptus
1.2.7.6 CASE STUDY- PESTICIDES IN INDIA
In Delhi the accumulation of pesticide in the body of mother causes premature
delivery and low birth weight infant.

Environmental Science 27 AITT & H&S

 Pesticides in Pepsi and Coca Cola India has reported that Pepsi and coca cola
companies are selling soft drinks with pesticide content 30-40 times higher than EU limits.
This damages the nervous system,.

1.2.8 ENERGY RESOURCES

1.2.8.1 ENERGY DISTRIBUTION IN THE WORLD
 Developed countries like USA and Canada constitute only 5% of the world’s population
but consume 25% of the world’s available energy.
 Energy consumed by a person in a developed country for a single day is equal to
energy consumed by a single person in a poor country for one year.
 Developed country GNP increases and energy consumption increases. In the poor
country GNP and energy consumption are less.
1.2.8.2 TYPES OF ENERGY RESOURCES:
1. Renewable energy resource (or)Non conventional energy resources
2. Non renewable energy resources (or) Conventional energy resources
1.2.8.2.1 RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES: Energy which can be regenerated.
Merits of renewable energy resources
1. Unlimited supply
2. Provides energy security.
3. Fits into sustainable development concept.
4. Reliable and the devices are modular in size.
5. Decentralized energy production.
Types of renewable energy resources
1. Solar energy: Nuclear fusion reaction of sun produces enormous amount of energy.
Several techniques are available for collecting, storing and using solar energy.
a. Solar cell (or) Photovoltaic cell (or) PV cell:
 Solar cell consists of p- type semi conductor (Si doped with B) and n-type
semi conductor (Si doped with P). P-type forms top layer and n-type forms
bottom layer.
 Solar rays fall on the top layer, the electrons from valence band promoted to
the conduction band which crosses the p-n junction into n-type semi

Environmental Science 28 AITT & H&S

 conductor. Potential difference between the two layers is created which
causes flow of electrons.

Uses: It is used in calculators, electronic watches, street light, water pumps etc.

b. Solar battery: Large number of solar cells connected in series is called solar
battery. It is used in remote areas where continuous power supply is a
problem.
c. Solar water heater: It consists of insulated box painted with black paint
with glass lid. Inside the box black painted copper coil is present. Cold water
is allowed to flow, it is heated up and flows out into a storage tank from
which water is supplied through pipes.
2. Wind energy: Moving air is called wind. The energy recovered from the force of the
wind is called wind energy It’s speed is high.
a. Wind mills: When a blowing wind strikes the blade of the wind mill, it
rotates continuously. And rotational motion of the blade drives number of
machines like water pump, flour mills and electric generators.
b. Wind farms: When a large number of mills are installed and joined together
in a definite pattern – it forms wind farm. It produces large amount of
electricity.
Condition: Minimum speed for wind generator is 15 Km/hr
Advantages:
1. It does not cause air pollution
2. Very cheap

Environmental Science 29 AITT & H&S

 3. Ocean energy:
Tidal energy (or) Tidal power: Ocean tides are due to gravitational force of sun and
moon which produce enormous amount of energy. High tides – rise of water in the ocean.
Low tides – fall of water in the ocean. Tidal energy can be used by constructing a tidal
barrage. During high tides sea water enters into the reservoirs and rotates the turbine,
produce electricity. During low tides water from reservoir enters into the sea rotate the
turbine produce electricity.
Ocean thermal energy:
Temperature difference between surface water and deeper level water in ocean generates
electricity. The energy available due to the difference in temperature of water is called
ocean thermal energy.
Condition: Temperature difference should be 200C.
Process: Ammonia is converted into vapours on the surface of warm water, it increases
the vapour pressure which rotate the turbine and generates electricity. Deeper level cold
water is pumped to cool and condense the vapour in to liquid.
3. Geo thermal energy: Temperature of the earth increases at a of 20 –750C per/km
when we move down the earth. The energy ut ilised from the high temperature present
inside the earth is called geothermal energy.
Natural geysers: Hot water or steam comes out of the ground through cracks naturally
is called natural geysers.
Artificial geysers: Artificially a drill hole up to the hot region and by sending a pipe into
it. The hot water or steam is used to rotate the turbine and generate electricity.
4. Bio mass energy:
Bio mass: Organic matter produced by plants or animals used as source of energy
Bio gas: Mixture of methane, carbondioxide and hydrogen sulphide. Methane is the major
constituent. It is obtained by anerobic fermentation of animal dung (or) plant wastes in
the presence of water.

Environmental Science 30 AITT & H&S

 Bio fuels: Fuels obtained by the fermentation of biomass.
Ex: Ethanol, methanol
Ethanol: Produced from sugar cane. Calorific value is less.
Methanol: Obtained from ethanol Calorific value too less.
Gasohol: Mixture of ethanol and gasoline India trial is going on to use gasohol in cars and
buses.
Hydrogen fuel: Hydrogen produced by pyrolysis, photolysis and electrolysis of water. It
has high calorific value. Non polluting one because the combustion product is water.
Disadvantages:
1. Hydrogen is highly inflammable and explosive.
2. Safe handling is required.
3. Difficult to store and transport.
1.2.8.2.2 NON RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES:
Energy which cannot be regenerated is called as non-renewable.
1. Coal: It is a solid fossil fuel.
Disadvantages:
1. When coal is burnt large amount of CO2 is released which causes global
warming.
2. S, N produces toxic gases during burning.
2. Petroleum: Crude oil is a liquid consists of more than hundreds of hydrocarbons and
small amount of impurities. The petroleum can be refined by fractional distillation. In
the world level 25% of oil reserves are in Saudi Arabia. At present rate of usage, the
world crude oil reserves are expected to get exhausted in just 40 years.

Environmental Science 31 AITT & H&S

 3. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG): Petroleum gases obtained during FD and cracking
can be easily converted into liquid under high pressure as LPG. It is colorless and
odorless gas, but during cylindering mercaptans are added to detect leakage.
4. Natural gas: These are found above oil in oil wells. It is a mixture of methane and
other hydrocarbons. Calorific value is high. There are two types. Dry gas and wet gas.
5. Nuclear energy: Dr.H.Bhabha is a father of nuclear power development in India. 10
nuclear reactors are present in India. It produces 2% of India’s electricity. Nuclear
energy can be produced by two types of reactions. Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.
Nuclear fission; It is a nuclear change in which heavier nucleus split into lighter
nuclei on bombardment of fast moving neutrons. Large amount of energy is released
through chain reaction.
Ex: Uranium with fast moving neutron gives barium and krypton in addition to three
neutrons; in the second stage it gives nine neutrons and so on. This process of
propagation of the reaction by multiplication is called chain reaction.
Nuclear fission: It is a nuclear change in which lighter nucleus is combined together
at extremely high temperature (1 billion 0C) to form heavier nucleus and a large
amount of energy is released.
Ex: Isotopes of hydrogen combine to form helium molecule.

1.2.8.9 CASE STUDY

Wind energy in India: India generating 1200 MW electricity using the wind energy.
Largest wind farm situated near Kanyakumari in Tamilnadu. It produces 380 MW
electricity.
Hydrogen fuel car: General motor company of china discovered a experimental car ( fuel
H2) can produce no emission only water droplets and vapors come out of the exhaust
pipe. This car will be commercially available by 2010.

Environmental Science 32 AITT & H&S