Current Affairs - Environment

Over the past decade, India's renewable energy capacity has surged by 165%, growing from 76.38 GW in 2014 to 203.1 GW in 2024. This significant increase highlights India's rapid advancements in renewable energy, particularly in solar and wind power, and positions the country as the fourth largest globally in renewable energy capacity. This growth is crucial for India’s sustainable development and demonstrates one of the fastest expansion rates in the renewable energy sector among large economies.

The theme for World Ranger Day 2024 is '30 by 30,' which stems from the 2022 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15). During this convention, global leaders and decision-makers agreed on a Global Biodiversity Framework. This initiative aims to protect 30% of the world’s land and ocean areas by 2030, highlighting the vital role rangers play in conservation efforts. World Ranger Day, observed annually on July 31st, honours these dedicated individuals who protect wildlife and natural habitats, emphasizing their contributions and the challenges they face.

The Ideas4LiFE portal was launched at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi) by Union Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav. This portal aims to collect innovative ideas for promoting environment-friendly lifestyles and supporting the global Mission Life initiative. The event included participation from various dignitaries and over 1000 students, research scholars, and academic faculty. This initiative encourages contributions towards seven themes: Save Water, Save Energy, Reduce Waste, Reduce E-Waste, Say No to Single-Use Plastics, Adopt Sustainable Food Systems, and Adopt Healthy Lifestyles, fostering a collective effort towards environmental sustainability.

The Vriksharopan Abhiyan 2024 was launched on July 25, 2024, at Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) in Dhanbad by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy. This initiative is part of the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign and was carried out simultaneously across 300 locations in 47 districts within 11 coal/lignite-bearing states. The campaign aims to enhance green cover and involves extensive tree-planting efforts, reflecting the government's commitment to environmental conservation.

According to a recent report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), China led the world in forest area gains from 2010 to 2020, adding an impressive 1,937,000 hectares annually. Australia followed with an increase of 446,000 hectares. India ranked third globally, significantly contributing to forest area expansion by adding 266,000 hectares annually. These gains reflect substantial efforts in reforestation and land restoration by these countries, with China leading the way.