Current Affairs - Environment

India’s first zoo-based wildlife biobank has been established at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP) in Darjeeling, West Bengal. This biobank is a significant step in wildlife conservation, as it preserves genetic materials from endangered species using cryogenic storage. Launched in July 2024 in collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), the biobank plays a crucial role in preserving genetic resources, aiding breeding programs, and supporting scientific research for species revival and protection.

Mount Dukono, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, erupted on February 20, 2025, sending a massive ash cloud into the sky. The eruption prompted authorities in Indonesia to issue an orange-level aviation warning, advising aircraft to avoid the area due to the risks posed by volcanic ash. Indonesia, being home to numerous active volcanoes, faces continuous volcanic threats, and Mount Dukono is one of the country’s most persistent sources of volcanic activity. This eruption serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges Indonesia faces due to its geographical location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has launched a $95 million, seven-year climate-resilient agriculture project called "Ugbaad" in Somalia. The initiative aims to strengthen Somalia’s agrifood systems, restore degraded landscapes, and protect the livelihoods of farmers. With agriculture supporting 65% of the country’s population, the project plays a crucial role in enhancing food security and climate adaptation efforts. Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister has emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling climate challenges as the nation faces increasing weather shocks.

The study on the impact of coal mining dust on plants, particularly how it harms plant stomata and reduces carbon absorption, was conducted by the University of Southampton in collaboration with NIT Rourkela. The research found that the dust, which can affect vegetation up to 30 km from the mine, significantly reduces carbon uptake in plants and obstructs their stomata, leading to poor plant health and ecosystem damage. The study highlights the broader environmental and ecological consequences of coal mining dust on plant life and carbon cycles.

According to a study published in the journal Science, India's tiger population has increased by 30% over the past two decades. This rise is considered a major conservation success, with the tiger count rising from 1,411 in 2006 to 2,967 in 2018. The increase is attributed to effective conservation efforts, including the establishment of protected areas, land-sparing strategies, and strong legislative support. The recovery also highlights the potential for human-wildlife coexistence in areas with effective conservation management.