Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Biodiversity, short for biological diversity, encompasses the variety of life at all levels of biological organization, from genes to ecosystems. It is the cornerstone of ecosystem services, providing essential resources like food, medicine, and clean water, and underpinning the resilience of our planet. However, biodiversity is facing unprecedented threats due to habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation. The recent Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES, 2019) highlighted that around 1 million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction, many within decades. Therefore, effective conservation measures are crucial for safeguarding this vital resource.
Defining Biodiversity
Biodiversity is typically understood at three levels: Genetic diversity (variation within species), Species diversity (variety of species in a region), and Ecosystem diversity (variety of habitats, communities, and ecological processes). It’s not merely the number of species, but also their relative abundance, genetic variability, and the functional roles they play within ecosystems.
Measures for Biodiversity Conservation
1. *In-situ* Conservation (On-site Conservation)
This involves protecting species within their natural habitats. It is considered the most effective method as it maintains ecological processes.
- Protected Area Network: Establishing national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, conservation reserves, and community reserves. India has a network of 900+ protected areas covering approximately 5% of its geographical area (as of 2023).
- Habitat Restoration: Rehabilitating degraded ecosystems, such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and coral reef rehabilitation. The National Afforestation Programme (NAP) is a key initiative in this regard.
- Corridor Conservation: Connecting fragmented habitats to allow for species movement and gene flow. Identifying and securing ecological corridors is crucial for long-term viability of populations.
- Species-Specific Action Plans: Developing and implementing targeted conservation plans for endangered species, like Project Tiger (1973), Project Elephant (1992), and Project Snow Leopard.
2. *Ex-situ* Conservation (Off-site Conservation)
This involves conserving species outside their natural habitats.
- Botanical Gardens: Maintaining collections of plants for research, education, and conservation. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is a leading example globally.
- Zoological Parks: Housing and breeding animals in controlled environments. Modern zoos increasingly focus on conservation breeding programs and reintroduction efforts.
- Gene Banks & Seed Banks: Preserving genetic material of plants and animals for future use. The National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) in India maintains a vast collection of plant genetic resources.
- Cryopreservation: Preserving cells and tissues at extremely low temperatures. This is particularly useful for conserving genetic diversity of endangered species.
3. Legal and Policy Frameworks
- Biological Diversity Act, 2002: Provides a legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in India. It establishes the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) and State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs).
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Provides for the protection of wild animals, birds, and plants. It regulates hunting and trade in wildlife.
- Forest Conservation Act, 1980: Regulates the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes.
- National Forest Policy, 1988: Emphasizes the importance of maintaining ecological balance and conserving biodiversity.
4. International Collaborations
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): An international treaty adopted in 1992, aiming to conserve biodiversity, sustainably use its components, and share genetic resources fairly and equitably.
- CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora): Regulates international trade in endangered species.
- Ramsar Convention: Focuses on the conservation of wetlands.
5. Community Participation & Sustainable Livelihoods
Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is crucial for long-term success. Providing alternative livelihood options that are compatible with conservation goals can reduce pressure on natural resources. Joint Forest Management (JFM) is a prime example of community-based conservation in India.
Conclusion
Conserving biodiversity is not merely an environmental imperative but also a socio-economic necessity. A multi-pronged approach encompassing *in-situ* and *ex-situ* conservation, robust legal frameworks, international cooperation, and, crucially, community participation is essential. Addressing the underlying drivers of biodiversity loss, such as unsustainable consumption patterns and climate change, is paramount. Investing in research, education, and awareness campaigns will further strengthen conservation efforts and ensure a sustainable future for all life on Earth.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.