Unit 6: Biodiversity and Its

Conservation
Topics Covered
❖ Biodiversity
❖ Biodiversity loss and conservation
❖ International Conventions on Biodiversity Conservation

BIODIVERSITY

Biodiversity:
❖ Biodiversity is the variety and variability of life on earth.
❖ Biodiversity as defined by the United Nations Environment Programme
(UNEP) is the sum total of genes, species, and ecosystems in a region.
❖ It indicates that biodiversity encompasses various levels, from genetic
variation within species to the diversity of entire ecosystems.

Types of Biodiversity:

The biodiversity is classified into three main types:

❖ Genetic Diversity: The variety of genes within individuals of the same
species, including unique genetic features within a species. Genetic diversity
is crucial as it allows species to adapt to changing environments and evolve
over time.
❖ Species Diversity: The number of different species found in a given area.

PW OnlyIAS 1 Class Notes

❖ Ecosystem Diversity (or Community Diversity): The variety of ecosystems
or communities in a specific area.
➢ Each ecosystem (such as forests, deserts, wetlands, and oceans) has
unique communities of plants, animals, and microorganisms, along
with their interactions and environmental conditions.
➢ Ecosystem diversity ensures the resilience of environments and
contributes to the overall stability of the biosphere.

Measurement of the Biodiversity:

It has 2 components. To effectively measure biodiversity, especially species
diversity, two main components are analysed.
❖ Species Richness: The total number of different species present in an area.
High species richness indicates a wide variety of species, which contributes
to a more resilient ecosystem.
❖ Species Evenness: The relative abundance of each species within that area,
which indicates how evenly individuals are distributed among species. Higher
evenness means a more balanced ecosystem, while lower evenness can
indicate dominance by a few species.

Types of Diversity:
Biodiversity is also categorised based on spatial scales, to understand variation
within and between ecosystems across a larger landscape.
❖ Alpha Diversity: Refers to the diversity within a specific ecosystem or site.
It measures the species richness within a localised area (like a forest or
pond), giving an insight into the variety of species within that single
environment.
❖ Beta Diversity: It measures the diversity between ecosystems or sites. It
captures the extent of species turnover between two different habitats or
areas. High beta diversity indicates significant differences in species
composition between the areas, reflecting ecological uniqueness.
❖ Gamma Diversity: Represents the total diversity of a large area or
landscape, encompassing all ecosystems within it. It is a cumulative
measure of both alpha and beta diversity, representing the overall
biodiversity of a region.

PW OnlyIAS 2 Class Notes

The relationship between these diversity types can be summarised as:
❖ Gamma > Beta > Alpha – Gamma diversity covers the full landscape, beta
measures differences between ecosystems, and alpha represents localised
diversity within a single ecosystem.

Services Provided by Biodiversity:

Biodiversity offers numerous benefits to humans, known as biodiversity
services, which can be grouped into three main categories: Ecosystem Services,
Biological Services, and Socio-Cultural Services.
❖ Ecosystem Services:
These are fundamental ecological functions that sustain life and
environmental stability. They include:
➢ Soil formation and preservation of soil fertility- Natural processes that
create soil and maintain nutrients essential for plant growth and
agriculture.
➢ Preservation of the water cycle- Ecosystems regulate rainfall,
groundwater recharge, and water purification, sustaining the
hydrological balance.
➢ Storage and cycling of nutrients- Ecosystems store and recycle
nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, supporting food chains and
plant life.
➢ Degradation of waste material and breakdown of pollutants-
Microorganisms and natural elements break down organic waste and
detoxify harmful pollutants in ecosystems.
PW OnlyIAS 3 Class Notes
 ➢ Climate regulation and carbon sequestration- Forests and oceans
absorb carbon dioxide, moderating temperature and reducing climate
change impact.
➢ Land stabilisation to prevent erosion- Vegetation and roots bind soil,
reducing wind and water erosion, preserving land structure and
fertility.
❖ Ecosystem services ensure clean air and water, pollination of plants, and
healthy soils. For instance, carbon sequestration captures and stores
atmospheric carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change.
❖ Biological Services:
Biodiversity provides essential resources that support human survival and
development, such as:
➢ Food, clothing, building materials, and freshwater
➢ Energy sources like wood, biofuel, and fiber
➢ Medicinal resources, including quinine (for malaria treatment), penicillin
(antibiotic), and morphine (pain relief)
❖ These services supply genetic resources and natural products crucial for
health, agriculture, and industry.
❖ Socio-Cultural Services:
Biodiversity also enriches human culture, education, and recreation through:
➢ Opportunities for research and education
➢ Tourism and recreational activities
➢ Preservation of cultural values, traditions, and identity
❖ These services foster a connection between societies and their natural
environment, providing aesthetic, spiritual, and recreational experiences that
enhance quality of life.

Biodiversity Loss:
❖ Biodiversity loss is defined as the reduction in biological diversity within
species, ecosystems, and across the entire planet. It also refers to the
extinction of species from Earth. Throughout the planet’s evolutionary
history, biodiversity loss has occurred due to natural selection and other
natural processes.

PW OnlyIAS 4 Class Notes

❖ Additionally, Earth has experienced five episodes of mass extinction over
the past 500 million years. These mass extinctions were triggered by
catastrophic natural events, such as volcanic eruptions and meteorite
impacts.
❖ Since the Industrial Revolution, the human ecological footprint has
increased rapidly, and global ecosystems are experiencing significant
degradation. This includes phenomena such as global warming, rising sea
levels, deforestation, ozone depletion, and land degradation.
➢ As a result, some scientists suggest that we may currently be
experiencing a sixth mass extinction episode.

As per Living planet report 2020 by World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF):
❖ Decline of 68% in the population of different species from 1970 to 2016.
❖ Current rate of Biodiversity loss is 100 to 1000 times faster than the
natural rate of extinction. Therefore it is comparable to mass extinction.

Major Reasons for Biodiversity Loss:

❖ Habitat Loss and Fragmentation:This is the primary driver of biodiversity
loss and occurs when natural habitats are converted for human activities
such as agriculture, urban development, and infrastructure projects.
Fragmentation of large habitats into smaller, isolated patches disrupts the
living conditions of species and impedes migration and reproduction.
❖ Overexploitation:This occurs when natural resources are harvested at
unsustainable rates, often due to activities like hunting, fishing, logging, and
poaching.Overharvesting can reduce population sizes to levels that threaten
species survival, disrupting ecosystems and food chains.
❖ Alien species invasion: These species are non-native species coming from a
foreign land, and they produce and proliferate very fast, by outcompeting
the native species
➢ 90% of alien species will not be able to survive, but 10% will reproduce
rapidly because those will be able to adapt in a new environment, and
these species will thrive since they will not have natural predators or
competitors.

PW OnlyIAS 5 Class Notes

 ➢ For example, Water Hyacinth was introduced by the Britishers in India,
which is a native of the Amazon, but it has captured several
ecosystems in India.
➢ Prosopis Juliflora, native to the American ecosystem.
❖ Co-extinction: Co-extinction refers to the extinction of one species causing
the extinction of others that rely on it, such as symbiotic partners,
predators, or dependent plants and animals.The loss of one key species can
trigger a domino effect, impacting many others within the ecosystem, thus
reducing biodiversity.
❖ Climate Change: Changes in climate affect temperature and precipitation
patterns, leading to habitat shifts and alterations in the timing of biological
events (e.g., breeding and migration).Species unable to adapt to new
conditions may face population declines or extinction, especially those with
limited distribution or specific habitat needs.
❖ Environmental Pollution:Pollutants such as chemicals, heavy metals,
plastics, and pesticides can contaminate air, water, and soil, creating toxic
environments that are harmful to living organisms. Pollution can cause
immediate harm (e.g., oil spills) or chronic effects (e.g., bioaccumulation of
toxins), leading to reduced reproductive success, genetic damage, or
mortality in various species.

The Evil Quartet:

They are the four main causes for the loss of biodiversity:

❖ Habitat Loss & Fragmentation:

➢ The key contributors for habitat loss are settlement, agriculture,
industry, Mining, etc.

➢ Habitat Loss & Fragmentation are key contributor to loss of species

diversity and extinction of plants and animals. It also leads to man
animal conflict. Man-animal conflict means human beings are
threatened and being killed by these creatures.

PW OnlyIAS 6 Class Notes

 ➢ According to living planet report:
✓ In the last 40 years, there has been a 30% decline in wetlands,
where wetlands have been reclaimed for agriculture and urban
settlement.
✓ Approximately 50% of tropical/subtropical forest and 45% of
temperate grassland have been cleared for human settlement.
❖ Over Exploitation of Natural Resources and Species:
➢ Excessive use of natural resources, such as overfishing, overharvesting,
overhunting, and habitat loss due to human activities, is leading to
species extinction.
❖ Introduction of Alien Species / Invasion:
➢ Alien species are non-native species introduced from foreign
environments that often reproduce or proliferate rapidly, outcompeting
native species. While 90% of alien species may not survive, some adapt
well and reproduce rapidly. These species may lack natural predators
or competitors, allowing them to thrive and disrupt local ecosystems.
➢ Examples:
✓ The Water Hyacinth (an aquatic plant native to the Amazon) was
introduced to India by the British for beautification purposes.
✓ Prosopis juliflora (Vilayati Kikar), native to the Americas, was
introduced to North India.
❖ Co-extinction:
➢ Co-extinction occurs when two species are closely related to each other
and when one species become extinct then other species will also get
extinct. Example: Host an Parasite, Plant and Pollinator, Symbiotic
Association etc.

Along with these, two more reasons are there in loss of biodiversity. They are:
climate change, environment pollution.
❖ Climate Change:

PW OnlyIAS 7 Class Notes

 ➢ Habitat Loss: Shrinking of polar ice is linked to habitat loss and decline
population of polar bear.
➢ Change in environmental Condition: Changes will be very fast and
adoptation by species will be slow. It will lead to extinction of species.
❖ Environmental Pollution:
➢ Environmental pollution adversely impact reproductive success rate
that will lead to decline in population and may lead to extinction.
Example: sea gull.

Biodiversity Conservation:
❖ There are two approaches of Biodiversity Conservation:
➢ In-Situ Conservation
➢ Ex-Situ Conservation

In-situ Conservation:
❖ It refers to the conservation
of species in their natural
habitat, i.e. ecosystem.
❖ Example: protected area
network i.e.:
➢ National Park
➢ Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

❖ It is done when there is considerable population of the species.

PW OnlyIAS 8 Class Notes

Ex- Situ Conservation:
❖ Ex-situ conservation refers to the conservation of species outside their
natural habitat.
➢ Example: Captive Breeding Program for vultures in Pinjore (Haryana),
pygmy hog (wild pig) in Assam.
❖ Ex-situ is adopted when the population becomes too less.
❖ Case study of Vultures→ Vultures are scavengers and are threatened by
the use of painkiller “Diclofenac" in cattles which ultimately leads to kidney
failure of vultures after consuming that dead cattle.

Protected Area Network (PAN):

❖ They are specifically demarcated geographical areas for long-term
conservation of nature.
❖ 5.28 % of the total geographical area of India is designated as PANs.
❖ India has a network of approximately 998 protected areas.
❖ Protected areas in India have been categorised according to the Wildlife
Protection Act, 1972 into 4 categories:
➢ National Parks (More than 100 National Parks (106)- 1.35% of
geographical area)
➢ Wildlife Sanctuaries (More than 500 Wildlife Sanctuaries (573)- 3.75%
of geographical area)
➢ Conservation Reserves (115 conservation reserve- 0.16% of geographical
area)
➢ Community Reserves (220 community reserves- 0.04% of geographical
area)

Protected Area Network (PAN) includes: (in decreasing order of stringent

actions implementation):
➢ National parks
➢ Wildlife Sanctuaries
➢ Reserved Forest
➢ Protected forest

PW OnlyIAS 9 Class Notes

❖ Both National parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries are declared by the State
Government based upon their ecological significance as per their provision
of Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
❖ Both National parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries aim at In-Situ conservation
of Biodiversity by regulating human activities and restricting human
presence inside National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.

National Park:
❖ National parks are declared by the State Government based upon their
ecological significance as per the provisions of Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
❖ National parks aim at in-Situ conservation of Biodiversity by regulating
human activities and restricting human presence inside National Parks.
❖ In the National Park, no rights are allowed.
❖ No grazing of livestock is permitted.
❖ It has a defined boundary.
❖ The national park is for the protection of both plant and animal species
present there.
❖ It has the most stringent rules and the highest degree of protection.
❖ No human activities are allowed.

Wildlife Sanctuary:
❖ Less stringent rules than National Park.
❖ Human activities are allowed only if the state government gives permission.
❖ In Wildlife Sanctuary, grazing & firewood collection by tribals are allowed.
❖ Settlement is not allowed in the Wildlife Sanctuary (Few exceptions of
tribal settlements).
❖ It is for the protection of Wild Animals.
❖ The boundaries of wildlife sanctuaries are not clearly defined.
❖ Wildlife sanctuaries are home to many endangered spices.
❖ In wildlife sanctuaries, hunting or fishing activities are banned/strictly
controlled.
❖ It is maintained by the state government.
❖ Wildlife sanctuaries can be promoted to National Park.
PW OnlyIAS 10 Class Notes
Conservation Reserves:
❖ It can be declared by the state
government under the Wildlife
Protection Act 1972.
❖ These are areas owned by
government adjacent to national
parks or wildlife sanctuaries.
❖ It is designated to protect the
landscape, seascape and habitat
of flora and fauna.
❖ They serve as a buffer zone and corridors connecting protected areas.
❖ The rights of people living inside a conservation reserve are not affected.

Community Reserves:
❖ Community Reserves are declared by the state government under the
Wildlife Protection Act 1972 in any private or community land, excluding
areas within a national park, wildlife sanctuaries or conservation reserves.
❖ In a community reserve local community actively participates in the
management and conservation of wildlife and biodiversity.
❖ The establishment of a community reserve does not impact the rights of
individuals residing within its boundaries.
❖ These areas serve as buffer zones around national parks, wildlife
sanctuaries and reserve and protected forests in the country.

Other Protected Areas

Reserve Forest:
❖ Reserve forests are legally defined under the Indian Forest Act, 1927.
❖ They are most restricted forest and are constituted by state government
on any forest land which is property of the government.
❖ In the reserve forest, local people are prohibited unless allowed by the state
government.

PW OnlyIAS 11 Class Notes

Protected Forest:
❖ The state government can declare a protected forest on any land other
than a reserve forest. The government has proprietary rights to the
protected forest.
❖ Protected forests are designated under the Indian Forest Act, 1927.

❖ Right to activities like hunting, grazing, and firewood collection are

permitted unless it is banned by the state government. Here activities are
allowed unless banned, unline reserve forest where activities are banned
unless allowed.

Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ):

❖ Eco-sensitive areas, as per the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-2031), are
regions located within 10 km of protected areas such as national parks and
wildlife sanctuaries.
❖ Eco-sensitive zones are also known as ecologically fragile zones.
❖ ESZs are notified and regulated by the Ministry of Environment, Forests
and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) under the Environment Protection Act,
1986.
❖ The purpose of Eco-sensitive-Zone is to provide more protection to the
parks by acting as “shock absorbers” to prevent ecological damage caused
by developmental activities in such areas and protect them by minimising
the negative impact on the ecosystem.

Biosphere Reserve:
❖ Biosphere Reserve (BR) is an international designation by UNESCO under
its Man Biosphere Programme (MAB).

PW OnlyIAS 12 Class Notes

❖ Man and Biosphere programme is an intergovernmental scientific
programme which was started in 1971 to improve the relationship between
man and his environment.
❖ Biosphere Reserve has three objectives:
➢ Conservation
➢ Logistics (It means research and monitoring).
➢ Development- it means sustainable development along with the tribal
people.

Man and Biosphere Programme:

❖ Is an international scientific programme started in 1971 to improve the
relationship between man and his environment
❖ There are more than 500 Biosphere Reserves spread across over 100
countries worldwide

Biosphere Reserves have 3 objectives:

❖ Conservation
❖ Logistic – research and monitoring
❖ Development – sustainable development along with tribal peoples

Structure of Biosphere Reserve:

❖ There are three types of structure like:
❖ Core Area: It is for conservation, and free from human interference.
❖ Buffer Zone: Research, Monitoring, and Eco tourism is allowed over there.

PW OnlyIAS 13 Class Notes

❖ Transition Zone: In this area developmental activities, home of tribals,
collection of forest products, and agriculture are allowed.
❖ Legally protected under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
UNESCO’s Criteria for Designation of Biosphere Reserve:
❖ It must have a minimally disturbed core area.
❖ It should preferably have primitive tribal groups.
❖ It should preferably have certain endemic species.

Endemic Species:
❖ Endemic Species are those that are geographically restricted to a particular
region and not found anywhere else.
❖ There are such examples:
➢ Lion-Tailed Macaque (Western Ghat)
➢ Nilgiri tahr (Western Ghat)
➢ Red Sanders (Eastern Ghat)

Extra Info:

❖ There are 18 biosphere reserves in India out of which 12 biosphere

reserves have been internationally recognised by UNESCO.
❖ The latest Biosphere reserve from India to get international recognition
is Panna Biosphere Reserve in Madhya Pradesh in 2022.
❖ The Union Government designates biosphere reserve at the National
level; after that, the Ministry of Forest Environment Climate Change
puts appeal to UNESCO for international recognition.

PW OnlyIAS 14 Class Notes

❖ Gulf of Mannar – is the only marine Biosphere Reserve in India.
❖ International recognition by UNESCO gives the following benefits:
➢ International acknowledgement and soft power.
➢ Better prospects of ecotourism.
➢ Enhancement and scientific knowledge and research.
➢ Functional assistance in conservation.

International Recognition by UNESCO MAB – Benefits:

Benefit Description

International acknowledgement Enhances global standing and diplomatic

and soft power leverage

Better prospects for eco-tourism Promotes sustainable tourism and

community development

Enhancement of scientific Encourages education research, and

knowledge and research technological collaboration

Function assistance in Supports environment protection through

conservation international cooperation.

Difference between National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries and

Biosphere Reserve:
National Parks and Wildlife Biosphere Reserve
Sanctuaries

State Government Jurisdiction Central government jurisdiction

Designation as per Wildlife International designation by UNESCO (when

Protection Act, 1972 we declare it there is no law in the country).

Exclusive conservation that means Inclusive conservation (Man and

only conservation. Development).

PW OnlyIAS 15 Class Notes

Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:
❖ The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is an environmental legislation enacted by
the Government of India to protect the country’s wildlife and their habitats.

Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Major Objectives):

❖ Protection of wildlife by controlling and regulating wildlife trade.
❖ Establishment of National park and Wildlife sanctuaries.
❖ Better management of zoos in the country.
❖ The Wildlife Protection Act has six schedules which give varying degrees of
protection to both flora and fauna species.

Wildlife Protection Act of India: Schedules

❖ The Wildlife Protection Act of India is a crucial legal framework aimed at
conserving the country’s rich biodiversity.
❖ It classifies species into six schedules, each with varying degrees of
protection for both flora and fauna, as well as specific penalties for
violations.
Schedule I:
❖ Provides highest protection to critically endangered species.
❖ Hunting or exploitation is strictly prohibited.
❖ Violators face severe penalties.
➢ Examples: Blackbuck, Snow Leopard
Schedule II:
❖ Offers high protection, though slightly less strict than Schedule I.
❖ Includes species that need safeguarding but are not critically endangered.
➢ Examples: Assamese Macaque, Himalayan Black Bear, Indian Cobra
PW OnlyIAS 16 Class Notes
Schedules III and IV:
❖ Covers species that are not critically endangered but require moderate
protection.
❖ Penalties for violations are less severe compared to Schedules I and II.
➢ Examples: Flamingo, Falcon, Kingfisher, Magpie
Schedule V:
❖ Includes species classified as vermin, which can be legally hunted.
❖ These animals are considered harmful to crops or human activities.
➢ Examples: Common Crow, Fruit Bats, Mice, Rats
Schedule VI:
❖ Focuses on protected plant species that require regulated cultivation.
❖ Cultivation or propagation of these plants requires a license or approval
from authorities.
➢ Examples: Red Vanda, Blue Vanda, Pitcher Plant, Beddomes' Cycad.

Examples of Schedule I Species (Absolute Protection):

New Schedules under Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2021:
❖ Key amendments were introduced through the Wildlife Protection
(Amendment) Act, 2021

❖ The amendment reduced the total number of schedules from 6 to 4.

Structure of New Schedules:
❖ Schedule I – Highest level of protection for animal species.
❖ Schedule II – Lesser level of protection for animal species.
❖ Schedule III – Protection for plant species.
❖ Schedule IV – Species listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade
in Endangered Species).
PW OnlyIAS 17 Class Notes
Key Changes:
❖ Schedule for vermin species has been removed
❖ Schedule for CITES species has been added to align with international
conservation efforts.

Extra Info:
❖ Species listed under Schedule I and Part II of Schedule II receive absolute
protection, meaning any form of hunting, poaching, trading, or exploitation
is strictly prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act. These species are
given the highest level of legal protection, and violations attract severe
penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
Examples of species receiving this level of protection include:
❖ Indian Elephant, Asiatic Lion, Tiger, Leopard, One-Horned Rhinoceros,
Ganges River Dolphin, Great Indian Bustard, Blackbuck

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS ON BIODIVERSITY

CONSERVATION

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):

❖ The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an international, legally
binding treaty that underscores the importance of conserving biological
diversity for the benefit of humanity.
❖ It was opened for signature during the Earth Summit on June 5, 1992, in
Rio de Janeiro and officially came into force in 1993.
❖ Objectives of CBD:

PW OnlyIAS 18 Class Notes

 ➢ Conservation of Biological diversity.
➢ Sustainable use of biodiversity.
➢ Fair and equitable sharing of the resources.
❖ To achieve its objectives, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
operates through specific targets, protocols, and regular COP (Conference
of Parties) meetings.
➢ Biodiversity Protection: Achieved through COP meetings and the
adoption of Aichi Biodiversity Targets (set during COP-10 in 2010,
Japan), which outline global goals for biodiversity conservation.
➢ Safe Use of Biotechnology: Governed by the Cartagena Protocol on
Biosafety, which aims to ensure the safe handling, transport, and use
of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern
biotechnology.
➢ Fair Use of Genetic Resources: Addressed by the Nagoya Protocol on
Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS), which ensures that the benefits
arising from the use of genetic resources are shared fairly and
equitably, especially with countries and communities providing those
resources.

Supplementary Agreements to the CBD:

Cartagena Protocol on Bio-safety:

❖ The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is a supplementary agreement to the
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
❖ It was adopted in 2000 and entered into force in September 2003.
❖ The protocol aims to protect biological diversity from the potential risks
posed by Living Modified Organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern
biotechnology.
❖ It is an international treaty that regulates the transboundary movement
of LMOs between countries.
❖ Exporters must obtain prior approval from the importing country before
exporting Genetically Modified (GM) crops or LMOs.

PW OnlyIAS 19 Class Notes

❖ Parties to the protocol are required to ensure that LMOs are handled,
packaged, and transported safely during international shipments.

Nagoya Protocol:
❖ The Nagoya Protocol is a supplementary agreement to the Convention on
Biological Diversity (CBD).
❖ It was adopted in 2010 and entered into force in 2014.
❖ The protocol provides a transparent legal framework for the effective
implementation of the third objective of the CBD:
➢ Fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization
of genetic resources.
❖ The Nagoya Protocol ensures that countries and indigenous communities
providing genetic resources receive a fair share of the benefits — whether
monetary or non-monetary.
❖ It is especially important for protecting traditional knowledge, ensuring that
indigenous people are not exploited for their cultural and biological
resources.
PW OnlyIAS 20 Class Notes
Aichi Targets:
❖ The Aichi Biodiversity Targets were part of a 10-year strategic plan (2011–
2020) for biodiversity conservation, adopted at the Nagoya Conference in
2010 under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
❖ The plan included 20 global biodiversity targets organized under 5 Strategic
Goals.
❖ The deadline for achieving these targets was 2020.
❖ Strategic Goals & Their Focus:
➢ Strategic Goal A – Address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss
➢ Strategic Goal B – Reduce direct pressure on biodiversity and promote
sustainable use
➢ Strategic Goal C – Improve the status of biodiversity by safeguarding
ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity
➢ Strategic Goal D – Enhance the benefits to all from biodiversity and
ecosystem services.
➢ Strategic Goal E – Enhance implementation through planning,
knowledge management, and capacity building
❖ According to a UN assessment in 2020, no single country succeeded in
meeting all 20 Aichi targets.
❖ The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) has now replaced the Aichi Targets
as the roadmap for post-2020 biodiversity conservation efforts.

Kunming - Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework:

❖ The GBF was adopted during COP-15 of the Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD) in 2022.
❖ It aims to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and builds
upon previous frameworks like the Aichi Biodiversity Targets.
❖ After adoption, all CBD member countries are required to set national
biodiversity targets aligned with the GBF.
❖ The GBF consists of:
➢ 23 Global Targets for 2030
➢ 4 Long-Term Goals for 2050
PW OnlyIAS 21 Class Notes
❖ The framework focuses on preserving biodiversity for current and future
generations.
➢ Reducing threats to biodiversity
➢ Sustainable use and fair benefit-sharing
➢ Development of tools and solutions for implementation
❖ The 30x30 Deal:
➢ Restore 30% of degraded ecosystems globally by 2030.
➢ Protect and manage 30% of the world’s land and marine areas by 2030.
❖ The GBF is not a legally binding treaty, but it holds moral and strategic
importance as a global commitment to reverse biodiversity loss.

COP 16 of CBD:
❖ Held in 2024, Cali, Colombia.
❖ Theme: Peace with Nature.
❖ This was the first COP after the adoption of the Kunming–Montreal Global
Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF) in 2022.
❖ It acted as a crucial platform to:
➢ Evaluate global progress toward biodiversity goals
➢ Identify gaps and challenges in the implementation of GBF targets for
2030.
❖ Cali Fund was established to ensure equitable benefit-sharing from the use
of Digital Sequence Information (DSI) on genetic resources.
❖ DSI refers to the digital representation of genetic sequences derived from
the DNA of organisms.
❖ It plays a vital role in biotechnological research and innovation, and its fair
use is essential for biodiversity conservation and equity.

CITES: Convention on International Trade in Endangered

Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
❖ CITES is a multilateral agreement between governments, designed to
regulate international trade in wildlife and plants to ensure their survival
in natural habitats.
❖ It came into effect in 1975 and currently has 184 Parties as members.

PW OnlyIAS 22 Class Notes

Objective:
❖ The primary goal of CITES is to prevent international trade in specimens of
wild animals and plants from threatening their survival in the wild.
❖ By regulating and monitoring trade, it helps conserve biodiversity and
maintain ecological balance.

CITES Appendices:
❖ The CITES framework categorizes species into three Appendices, each with
distinct levels of protection:

Appendix I:
❖ Includes: Species that are critically endangered and threatened with
extinction.
❖ Trade Rules:
➢ International commercial trade in these species is prohibited.
➢ Trade is permitted only under exceptional circumstances, such as
scientific research or conservation.
❖ Examples: Gorillas, tigers, and some species of orchids.

Appendix II:
❖ Includes: Species not currently at risk of extinction but could become
endangered without proper regulation.

PW OnlyIAS 23 Class Notes

❖ Trade Rules:
➢ Requires an export permit or re-export certificate.
➢ Import permits are generally not required, except under national
legislation.
❖ Examples: Certain types of sharks, mahogany, and reptiles.
Appendix III:
❖ Includes: Species listed at the request of individual CITES member countries
to protect them from overexploitation or illegal trade.
❖ Trade Rules:
➢ Requires appropriate permits or certificates.
➢ Monitoring and control are based on the Party's request to regulate
trade.
❖ Examples: Walrus (listed by Canada), and species locally at risk in specific
regions.

Importance of CITES:
❖ Conservation Impact: Prevents over-exploitation of wildlife for commercial
purposes.
❖ International Collaboration: Encourages cooperation among member
countries for effective enforcement.
❖ Awareness and Education: Helps in educating stakeholders and the public
on the importance of biodiversity conservation.

CMS (Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species):

❖ CMS is also known as the Bonn Convention.
❖ CMS is the only global convention dedicated to the conservation of
migratory species, including birds, their habitats, and migratory routes.
❖ It serves as a critical framework for the protection and sustainable
management of terrestrial, aquatic, and avian migratory species across
their migratory range.

Objective:
❖ The primary aim of CMS is to ensure the survival and protection of
migratory species by addressing threats along their migratory routes,
fostering international cooperation, and promoting habitat conservation.

PW OnlyIAS 24 Class Notes

History:
❖ CMS came into force in 1983, establishing itself as a pioneer in global
efforts for the conservation of migratory species.

Appendices of CMS:
❖ Appendix I:
➢ Includes species facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
➢ These species receive the highest level of protection under the
convention, including strict conservation measures to address habitat
loss, poaching, and other threats.
❖ Appendix II:
➢ Covers migratory species that require lesser protection compared to
Appendix I species.
➢ Conservation efforts for these species focus on coordinated actions
and sustainable management.
❖ CoP-13 of CMS was hosted by India in 2020 (adopted Gandhi Nagar
Declaration), which emphasised the need for greater protection of
migratory species throughout their ecological and migratory range.
❖ Three species from India got listed in Appendix I:
➢ Bengal Florican
➢ Great Indian Bustard
➢ Indian Elephant
❖ The 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the
Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP14) was held
in 2024, in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

PW OnlyIAS 25 Class Notes

 ➢ Two wild cats from India have been included in Appendix II of CMS. They
are:
✓ Pallas cat
✓ Central Asian Lynx

IUCN Red List of Threatened Species:

❖ The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List is the
world’s most comprehensive database on the global extinction risks faced
by species.
❖ It provides scientific assessments to determine species' conservation
status, aiding global efforts to monitor biodiversity.

Classification:
❖ Species are evaluated and placed into one of the following categories:

Based on the risk of extinction:

❖ Extinct (EX): No known individuals remaining (e.g., Passenger Pigeon, Woolly
Mammoth)

PW OnlyIAS 26 Class Notes

 .
❖ Extinct in the Wild (EW): Species survive only in captivity or controlled
conditions (e.g., Guam Rail, Panamanian Golden Frog).

Threatened Categories (species facing significant risk of

extinction):
❖ Critically Endangered (CR): Facing an extremely high risk of extinction.
Examples include the Mountain Gorilla and California Condor.
❖ Criteria:
➢ ≥80% population decline over 10 years or three generations.

PW OnlyIAS 27 Class Notes

 ➢ Range less than 100 km².
➢ Population size fewer than 50 mature individuals.
❖ Endangered (EN): Facing a very high risk of extinction. Examples include the
Blue Whale and Black Rhino.
❖ Criteria:
➢ ≥50% population decline over 10 years or three generations.
➢ Range less than 5,000 km².
➢ Population size fewer than 250 mature individuals.
❖ Vulnerable (VU): High risk of extinction in the wild. Examples include the
Polar Bear and African Elephant.
❖ Criteria:
➢ ≥30% population decline over 10 years or three generations.
➢ Range less than 20,000 km².
➢ Population size fewer than 1,000 mature individuals.

Other Categories:
❖ Near Threatened (NT): Species close to qualifying for a threatened category.
Examples include the Albacore Tuna and Monarch Butterfly.
❖ Least Concern (LC): Species at relatively low risk of extinction. Examples
include the Gray Wolf and Bald Eagle.
❖ Data Deficient (DD): Insufficient information available to assess the risk of
extinction.
❖ Not Evaluated (NE): Species not yet assessed by the IUCN.

Significance of the Red List:

❖ It serves as a critical indicator of the health of the world’s biodiversity.
❖ Provides information for conservation planning, policymaking, and
prioritizing species protection efforts.

The IUCN Red List highlights that 99.9% of all species that have ever lived are
now extinct.

It currently tracks 69 species listed as Extinct in the Wild.

PW OnlyIAS 28 Class Notes

Extra Edge:

Current Status:
Over 77,000 species assessed:
❖ The IUCN Red List has assessed a significantly higher number of species.
As of recent updates, it has assessed over 150,300 species, with efforts
ongoing to expand its coverage across underrepresented groups like
plants, invertebrates, fungi, and marine species

35,000 listed as "Least Concern":

❖ While exact numbers for species under "Least Concern" and "Near
Threatened" categories aren't explicitly highlighted in the sources, these
categories typically include a large proportion of the assessed species.

830 species have been documented as extinct since 500 AD:

❖ According to the IUCN, about 902 species are currently listed as extinct
or extinct in the wild, covering documented cases since the year 1500.

PW OnlyIAS 29 Class Notes

 Prelims PYQs:
1. With reference to an initiative called ‘The Economics of Ecosystems and
Biodiversity (TEEB)’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)
1. It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF and World Economic Forum.
2. It is a global initiative that focuses on drawing attention to the
economic benefits of biodiversity.
3. It presents an approach that can help decision-makers recognize,
demonstrate and capture the value of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution: (c)
2. With reference to 'Global Environment Facility', which of the following
statements is/are correct? (2014)
(a) It serves as a financial mechanism for 'Convention on Biological
Diversity' and 'United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change'.
(b) It undertakes scientific research on environmental issues at global
level.
(c) It is an agency under OECD to facilitate the transfer of technology and
funds to underdeveloped countries with specific aims to protect their
environment.
(d) Both (a) and (b)
Solution:(a)
3. With reference to India, consider the following Central Acts: (2011)
1. Import and Export (Control) Act, 1947
2. Mining and Mineral development (Regulation) Act, 1957
3. Customs Act, 1962
4. Indian Forest Act, 1927
Which of the above Acts have relevance to/bearing on the biodiversity
conservation in the country?
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (d) None of the above Acts.
Solution: (c)

PW OnlyIAS 30 Class Notes

4. With reference to an organisation known as 'BirdLife International', which
of the following statements is/are correct? (2015)
1. It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations.
2. The concept of 'biodiversity hotspots' originated from this organisation.
3. It identifies the sites known/referred to as 'Important Bird and
Biodiversity Areas'.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution: (c)
5. The most important strategy for the conservation of biodiversity together
with traditional human life is the establishment of: (2014)
(a) Biosphere reserves (b) Botanical gardens
(c) National parks (d) Wildlife sanctuaries
Solution: (a)
6. Consider the following statements :(2010)
1. The boundaries of a National Park are defined by legislation.
2. A Biosphere Reserve is declared to conserve a few specific species of
flora and fauna.
3. In a Wildlife Sanctuary, limited biotic interference is permitted.
Which of the statements given above is / correct ?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution: (c)
7. Why is a plant called Prosopis juliflora often mentioned in the news? (2018)
(a) Its extract is widely used in cosmetics.
(b) It tends to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grows.
(c) Its extract is used in the synthesis of pesticides.
(d) None of these
Solution: (b)

PW OnlyIAS 31 Class Notes

8. Consider the following statements: [2023]
1. In India, the Biodiversity Management Committees are key to the
realisation of the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol.
2. The Biodiversity Management Committees have important functions
in determining access and benefit sharing, including the power to levy
collection fees on the access of biological resources within its
jurisdiction.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution : (c)
9. How does the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) help in protecting Indian
Agriculture? (2012)
1. NBA checks the biopiracy and protects the indigenous and traditional
genetic resources.
2. NBA directly monitors and supervises the scientific research on genetic
modification of crop plants.
3. Application for Intellectual Property Rights related to genetic/biological
resources cannot be made without the approval of NBA.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution: (c)
10. The “Red Data Books” published by the International Union for Conservation
of Nature and Natural Resource (IUCN) contain lists of (2011)
1. Endemic plant and animal species present in the biodiversity hotspots.
2. Threatened plant and animal species.
3. Protected sites for conservation of nature and natural resources in
various countries.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 3 (b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 (d) 3 only
Solution: (b)

PW OnlyIAS 32 Class Notes

11. Three of the following criteria have contributed to the recognition of
Western Ghats-Sri Lanka and Indo-Burma regions as hotspots of
biodiversity: (2011)
1. Species richness
2. Vegetation density
3. Endemism
4. Ethno-botanical importance
5. Threat perception
6. Adaptation of flora and fauna to warm and humid conditions
Which three of the above are correct criteria in this context?
(a) 1, 2 and 6 (b) 2, 4 and 6
(c) 1, 3 and 5 (d) 3, 4 and 6
Solution: (c)
12. Consider the following statements: (2011)
1. Biodiversity is normally greater in the lower latitudes as compared to
the higher latitudes.
2. Along the mountain gradients, biodiversity is normally greater in the
lower altitudes as compared to the higher altitudes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution: (c)
13. Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in the following ways:
(2011)
1. Soil formation
2. Prevention of soil erosion
3. Recycling of waste
4. Pollination of crops
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Solution: (d)

PW OnlyIAS 33 Class Notes

14. Consider the following statements:(2010)
1. Biodiversity hotspots are located only in tropical regions.
2. India has four biodiversity hotspots i.e., Eastern Himalayas, Western
Himalayas, Western Ghats and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Which of the statements given above is / are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution: (d)
15. With reference to India's Desert National Park, which of the following
statements are correct? (2020)
1. It is spread over two districts.
2. There is no human habitation inside the Park.
3. It is one of the natural habitats of the Great Indian Bustard.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution: (c)
16. Which one of the following National Parks lies completely in the temperate
alpine:(2019)
(a) Manas National Park
(b) Namdapha National Park
(c) Neora Valley National Park
(d) Valley of Flowers National Park
Solution: (d)
17. Which of the following National Parks is unique in being a swamp with
floating vegetation that supports a rich biodiversity? (2015)
(a) Bhitarkanika National Park
(b) Keibul Lamjao National Park
(c) Keoladeo Ghana National Park
(d) Sultanpur National Park
Solution: (b)

PW OnlyIAS 34 Class Notes

 Mains PYQs:
1. Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the
Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this
conference? (2021)
2. How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002
helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? (2018)

PW OnlyIAS 35 Class Notes