Daily Current Affairs : 10-September-2024
India has made an important contribution to the global fight against climate change with its first-ever ‘teal carbon’ study, conducted at the Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan. The study explores the role of freshwater wetlands in climate adaptation and resilience, showing their potential in addressing the pressing issue of climate change.
What is Teal Carbon?
‘Teal carbon’ refers to the carbon stored in non-tidal freshwater wetlands. This includes carbon stored in vegetation, microbial biomass, and organic matter found in wetland ecosystems. These ecosystems play a vital role in regulating greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, which contribute to global warming.
The study highlights the importance of conserving freshwater wetlands, as they help reduce the amount of methane—a potent greenhouse gas—released into the atmosphere. The research also points to the potential of developing biochar, a form of charcoal made from plant material, to enhance wetland conservation and improve carbon storage. This innovative approach could help combat climate change while also preserving biodiversity.
About Keoladeo National Park
Keoladeo National Park, located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, is one of India’s most significant wildlife conservation areas. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned as a premier bird-watching destination. It has also been recognized as the first Ramsar Site in India, a designation given to wetlands of international importance.
Here are some key details about Keoladeo National Park:
- Location: Bharatpur, Rajasthan
- Significance: UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major bird-watching hub
- Ramsar Recognition: India’s first Ramsar Site (1981)
- Montreux Record Status: Listed, alongside Loktak Lake (Manipur)
- Bird Diversity: Over 365 species, including rare birds like the Siberian crane
- Migratory Birds: Attracts northern hemisphere birds for breeding
- Fauna: Includes jackals, sambar deer, Nilgai, hyenas, and more
- Flora: Tropical dry deciduous forests and dry grasslands
- Rivers: Gambhir and Banganga rivers flow through the park
The Role of Wetlands in Climate Resilience
The study conducted at Keoladeo National Park underscores the importance of freshwater wetlands in building climate resilience. Wetlands are natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and mitigating climate change. By protecting these ecosystems, India can make significant progress toward achieving climate adaptation goals.
Important Points:
- Teal Carbon: Refers to carbon stored in non-tidal freshwater wetlands, including vegetation, microbial biomass, and organic matter.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Wetlands help regulate greenhouse gases, especially by reducing methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas.
- Biochar: A promising solution for enhancing wetland conservation and improving carbon storage through the development of biochar (charcoal from plant material).
- Keoladeo National Park:
- Location: Bharatpur, Rajasthan.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its significant biodiversity, especially birds.
- Ramsar Site: India’s first Ramsar site, designated in 1981, a wetland of international importance.
- Montreux Record: Listed on the Montreux Record, which highlights wetlands facing significant threats.
- Bird Diversity: Home to over 365 bird species, including rare and endangered species like the Siberian crane.
- Migratory Birds: Attracts migratory birds from the northern hemisphere for breeding.
- Fauna: Includes a wide variety of animals like jackals, sambar deer, Nilgai, hyenas, and more.
- Flora: Features tropical dry deciduous forests and dry grasslands.
- Rivers: The Gambhir and Banganga rivers flow through the park.
- Wetlands and Climate Resilience: Freshwater wetlands, like those in Keoladeo National Park, play a crucial role in building climate resilience by absorbing carbon and helping mitigate climate change.
- Conservation Importance: Urgent conservation of wetlands is necessary to protect biodiversity and enhance their role in addressing climate challenges.
Why In News
India’s first ‘teal carbon’ study, conducted at Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan, focuses on using freshwater wetlands to address climate adaptation and resilience challenges, highlighting the vital role of these ecosystems in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing carbon sequestration.
MCQs about India’s First ‘Teal Carbon’ Study at Keoladeo National Park
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What does the term “teal carbon” refer to?
A. Carbon stored in oceans
B. Carbon stored in freshwater wetlands
C. Carbon stored in forests
D. Carbon released by factories
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Which of the following is a key finding of the ‘teal carbon’ study conducted at Keoladeo National Park?
A. Wetlands contribute to increasing greenhouse gas emissions.
B. Wetlands play no significant role in climate adaptation.
C. Wetlands can help reduce methane emissions and enhance carbon storage.
D. Wetlands are only important for preserving biodiversity.
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What is the significance of Keoladeo National Park?
A. It is the largest forest in India.
B. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Ramsar Site.
C. It is known for its large population of tigers.
D. It is primarily a national wildlife sanctuary for elephants.
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Which of the following species is NOT found in Keoladeo National Park?
A. Siberian crane
B. Nilgai
C. Wild boar
D. Polar bear
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