1. Climate Change
Definition
Climate change is the long-term change in average weather patterns (temperature, rainfall, wind, etc.) of a place or the Earth as a whole.
Causes of Climate Change
A. Natural Causes
Volcanic eruptions (release ash and gases)
Changes in solar radiation
Changes in Earth’s orbit and tilt
Reflection of sunlight by ice and clouds
B. Human (Man-made) Causes
Burning of fossil fuels (coal, petrol, diesel)
Industrialization
Deforestation
Vehicle emissions
Use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides
Urbanization
Effects of Climate Change
Irregular rainfall, floods, droughts
Melting of glaciers and rising sea level
Loss of biodiversity and extinction of species
Decrease in agricultural production
Increase in diseases (skin diseases, respiratory problems, malnutrition)
Change in seasonal cycle
Control / Preventive Measures
Use renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro)
Afforestation and reforestation
Reduce pollution
Use public transport
Follow environmental laws
Promote sustainable development
2. Biodiversity
Definition
Biodiversity is the variety of living organisms found in a particular area or on Earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms.
Levels of Biodiversity
Genetic Diversity
Variation of genes within the same species
Example: Different varieties of rice
Species Diversity
Variety of different species in an area
Example: Tiger, deer, birds in a forest
Ecosystem Diversity
Variety of ecosystems
Example: Forests, grasslands, wetlands, deserts
Importance of Biodiversity
Maintains ecological balance
Provides food, medicine, raw materials
Helps in pollination and nutrient cycling
Supports human survival
Economic and cultural importance
3. Endangered Plants and Animals of Nepal
Definition
Endangered species are plants and animals whose population has decreased drastically and are at risk of extinction.
Causes of Endangerment
Climate change
Habitat destruction
Illegal hunting and trade
Pollution
Forest fires
Introduction of invasive species
Examples of Endangered Animals of Nepal
Mammals
One-horned Rhinoceros
Bengal Tiger
Red Panda
Snow Leopard
Birds
Sarus Crane
Great Hornbill
Reptiles
Gharial
Asiatic Rock Python
Conservation Measures
Protect natural habitats
Stop illegal hunting and wildlife trade
Establish national parks and reserves
Scientific research and monitoring
Public awareness programs
4. Conservation of Biodiversity
A. In-situ Conservation
Conservation of plants and animals in their natural habitat.
Examples:
National Parks
Wildlife Reserves
Conservation Areas
Examples in Nepal:
Chitwan National Park
Sagarmatha National Park
Bardia National Park
B. Ex-situ Conservation
Conservation of plants and animals outside their natural habitat.
Examples:
Zoo
Botanical garden
Seed bank
Nursery
5. Medicinal Plants
Definition
Medicinal plants are plants that are used to prepare medicines to prevent or cure diseases.
Importance of Medicinal Plants
Used in traditional and modern medicine
Economically valuable
Fewer side effects
Cultural importance
Source of income for local people
Common Medicinal Plants of Nepal
Medicinal PlantScientific NameUsesTulsiOcimum tenuiflorumCold, cough, immunityNeemAzadirachta indicaSkin diseases, blood purifierGurjoTinospora cordifoliaImmunity boosterGhod TapreCentella asiaticaMemory improvementTurmericCurcuma longaAnti-inflammatoryAsuroAdhatoda vasicaRespiratory problemsBojoAcorus calamusThroat and digestionAloe VeraAloe barbadensisSkin, digestionYarsagumbaCordyceps sinensisEnergy boosterConservation of Medicinal Plants
Cultivation in nurseries
Sustainable harvesting
Protection of natural habitats
Public awareness and education
Government policies
6. Sustainable Use of Natural Resources
Definition
Sustainable use means using natural resources wisely without harming the environment so that future generations can also use them.
Examples
Controlled harvesting of medicinal plants
Use of renewable energy
Forest conservation
Wildlife protection