Class 8 Unit-4 (Biodiversity and Environment)

 

Unit-4 (Biodiversity and Environment)

Introduction

Biodiversity is the variety of all living things on Earth. It includes different plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, as well as the ecosystems they live in.

 

Environment is everything that is around us, including all the living things and non-living things. It is the place where we live and get everything we need to survive.

 

Types of diversity

1. Genetic Diversity:

·   It is the variation of genes within a species.

·   Example: Different breeds of dogs or varieties of rice.

2. Species Diversity:

·   It is the variety of different species in a particular area.

·   Example: Tigers, elephants, and deer living in a forest.

3. Ecosystem Diversity:

·   It is the variety of different ecosystems in a region or on Earth.

·   Example: Forests, rivers, deserts, and oceans.

 

 

Importance of Biodiversity

·   Biodiversity provides food, medicine, and raw materials for humans.

·   It helps to maintain balance in nature.

·   Biodiversity supports clean air, water, and fertile soil.

·   It is important for economic activities like farming, fishing, and forestry.

·   Biodiversity has cultural, religious, and aesthetic value.

 

 

Present Status of Biodiversity in Nepal

Nepal is rich in biodiversity due to its varied climate and geography. It has many species of plants, animals, and birds, but some are endangered because of deforestation, habitat loss, and human activities. Conservation efforts like national parks and protected areas are helping to protect biodiversity.

 

 

Causes of biodiversity loss

·   Cutting down forests destroys the homes of many plants and animals.

·   Pollution of air, water, and soil harms living organisms.

·   Climate change affects ecosystems and the survival of species.

·   Overhunting, overfishing, and overuse of resources reduce biodiversity.

·   Urbanization, roads, and farming destroy natural habitats.

 

Conservation of Biodiversity

Conservation of Biodiversity means protecting and preserving plants, animals, and their habitats so that they can survive for future generations.

There are two methods in practice to conserve biodiversity:

1. In-situ Conservation (On-site Conservation):

• Protecting species in their natural habitats.
• Examples: National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves.

2. Ex-situ Conservation (Off-site Conservation):

• Protecting species outside their natural habitats.
• Examples: Zoos, botanical gardens, seed banks, and tissue culture labs.

 

Other Methods of Conservation:

·   Reforestation: Plant more trees to restore forests.

·   Wildlife Protection Laws: Stop hunting, poaching, and illegal trade.

·   Sustainable Use of Resources: Use natural resources carefully without harm.

·   Education and Awareness: Teach people the importance of biodiversity.

 

Sustainable development

Sustainable development is a long lasting development with null or minimum disturbance to the ecosystem.

 

Importance of sustainable development

·   It ensures that natural resources are available for future generations.

·   It helps to protect the environment from pollution and degradation.

·   It promotes economic growth without harming nature.

·   It improves quality of life by supporting clean air, water, and healthy ecosystems.

·   It encourages responsible use of resources for social and environmental well-being.

 

Sustainable Development Goals and Nepal 's Efforts

Sustainable Development Goals

a.      Waste management

b.      Clean water and sanitation

c.      Responsible consumption and production

d.      Conservation of biodiversity

Nepal’s Efforts:

a.      Establishment of protected areas

b.      Practices of national and international organizations

c.      Afforestation campaign

d.      Awareness programs