Current Affairs - Environment

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of pangolin, named the Indo-Burmese pangolin (Manis indoburmanica), in Arunachal Pradesh. This species is genetically distinct from the Chinese and Indian pangolins and highlights the rich biodiversity of the region. The discovery, led by ZSI researcher Lenrik Konchok, reveals that the pangolin species dates back approximately 3.4 million years and displays a 3.8% genetic difference, further emphasizing its uniqueness within the pangolin family.

In 2024, global temperatures exceeded the 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels for the first time, averaging 1.6°C, as reported by the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service. This marked a significant milestone in the ongoing climate crisis, with devastating impacts like wildfires, floods, and heatwaves affecting regions worldwide, including the U.S., Bolivia, Nepal, and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the urgent need for global climate action.

The crisis stems from unregulated soapstone mining in Uttarakhand's Bageshwar district, which has led to land subsidence, landslides, and erosion. These issues threaten the stability of traditional Kumaoni structures, cultural landmarks like Kanda's Kalika Temple, and the regional ecosystem. The Uttarakhand High Court has intervened to investigate the matter, underscoring the severity of the issue.

Mount Ibu, located in North Maluku, Indonesia, erupted, sending a column of ash up to three kilometres into the atmosphere. Positioned in the West Halmahera regency, it is one of the country's most active volcanoes, recording 21,100 eruptions in 2023. This places Mount Ibu as the second most active volcano in Indonesia after Mount Merapi, emphasizing the region's significant volcanic activity.

The first-ever coastal and wader bird census in India took place in Jamnagar, Gujarat, from January 3 to 5, 2025. The census was conducted at the Marine National Park and Sanctuary, which is located in Jamnagar and is known for its rich marine biodiversity. The event involved over 100 bird watchers and experts and aimed to enhance understanding of bird populations along Gujarat’s coastline, which spans from Okha to Navlakhi. Jamnagar is home to a wide variety of bird species, including rare wader birds, making it an ideal location for this important conservation effort.