Class - 8th CH-06 Conservation Notes

Class 8 Science – Conservation (संरक्षण)

Conservation (संरक्षण)

➥ Conservation refers to the wise and judicious use of natural resources.

Biodiversity:

➥ The variety of living organisms existing on the earth.

Biosphere:

➥ The part of the earth which supports life or where living organisms exist.

Components: Includes land (terrestrial biosphere), water (hydrosphere), and air (atmosphere).

Biosphere Reserve:

➥ A large protected area for the conservation of biodiversity, research, and education.

Purpose: To protect genetic diversity, restore ecosystems, and promote sustainable development.

Reasons for Loss of Biodiversity:

1. Excessive Grazing: Overgrazing by livestock can degrade land and reduce plant diversity.
2. Pollution: Contaminants in air, water, and soil can harm or kill species.
3. Monoculture Cropping: The practice of planting one type of plant in an area, which reduces biodiversity.
4. Deforestation: The process of cutting down forests and using the land for other purposes, leading to habitat loss.
5. Climate Change: Altered weather patterns can disrupt ecosystems and species survival.

Monoculture:

➥ The practice of planting one type of plant in an area.

Deforestation:

➥ The process of cutting down forests and using the land for other purposes.

How Can We Help in Conservation of Forests:

1. Planting trees and participating in reforestation projects.
2. Reducing paper consumption and recycling.
3. Supporting and promoting sustainable forest management practices.
4. Educating others about the importance of forests.

Fauna:

➥ Animals found in a particular area.

Flora:

➥ Different plants growing in a particular area.

Endemic Species:

➥ Species of plants and animals which are found exclusively in a particular geographic area and nowhere else in the world.

Eg:- The Asiatic Lion in the Gir Forest of India.

Endangered Species (खत्म होने का व्यार पर):

➥ Species which are at high risk of extinction.

Eg:- The Bengal Tiger, Indian Rhino.

Extinct Species:

➥ Species of plants and animals which have been lost forever.

Eg:- The Dodo, Passenger Pigeon.

National Park:

➥ An area which is strictly reserved for the protection of wildlife.

➥ To conserve wildlife and their habitats, and to promote public enjoyment through education.

⟹ Examples in India:

1. Jim Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand)
2. Dudhwa National Park (Uttar Pradesh)
3. Ranthambore National Park (Rajasthan)
4. Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
5. Similipal National Park (Odisha)

Protected Area:

➥ An area dedicated to the protection and maintenance of biodiversity along with natural and cultural resources.

➥ To conserve ecosystems and cultural heritage.

Wildlife Sanctuary:

➥ Areas reserved for the protection of animals.

➥ To provide safe habitats and conserve wildlife.

Red Data Book (1991):

➥ Information about the threatened species of plants and animals.

➥ To raise awareness and promote conservation efforts.

Green Data Book:

➥ A list of plants growing in protected areas.

➥ To document and support plant conservation.

Organizations for Conservation:

International:

1. CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species): Ensures that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.
2. UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme): Promotes the sustainable development of the global environment.
3. IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): Works in the field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

National (India):

1. IBWL (Indian Board for Wildlife): Advises the government on conservation policies and measures.
2. DEFW (Department of Environment and Forests, Wildlife): Implements policies and programs for environmental conservation.
3. DNES (Department of Non-Conventional Energy Sources): Promotes renewable energy sources.
4. TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute): Conducts research and provides solutions for sustainable development.

Important Acts and Policies:

• Forest Act (1927): Regulates the rights of forest communities and the exploitation of forest resources.
• Wildlife Protection Act (1972): Provides for the protection of wild animals, birds, and plants.
• National Forest Policy (1988): Aims at sustainable management of forests and increasing forest cover.