Environmental conservation

  1. Environmental conservation refers to the sustainable management of natural resources to prevent exploitation and degradation.
  2. It aims to protect ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and ensure a sustainable future for human and non-human life.
  3. Biodiversity conservation involves protecting species, habitats, and ecosystems.
  4. Deforestation is a major issue, and afforestation and reforestation are key strategies for conservation.
  5. Climate change mitigation is an essential aspec

Resource management

  1. Resource management involves the sustainable utilization and conservation of natural resources.
  2. It aims to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.
  3. Natural resources are categorized as renewable (solar, wind) and non-renewable (coal, oil).
  4. Sustainable development is a core principle of resource management.
  5. Water resource management focuses on addressing water scarcity and ensuring equitable distribution.
  6. Integrated Water Re

Natural disasters

  1. Natural disasters are extreme, sudden events caused by environmental factors, leading to significant damage and loss.
  2. They can be categorized as geological (earthquakes, volcanoes), hydrological (floods, tsunamis), and meteorological (cyclones, tornadoes).
  3. An earthquake is caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust, resulting in seismic waves.
  4. Volcanic eruptions occur when magma from beneath the Earth's surface is expelled through vents.

Urban-rural divide

  1. The urban-rural divide refers to the disparities in resources, opportunities, and living standards between urban and rural areas.
  2. Urban areas are characterized by high population density, better infrastructure, and access to modern amenities.
  3. Rural areas often lack basic facilities like healthcare, education, and transportation.
  4. Economic opportunities are more abundant in urban centers, leading to migration from rural areas.
  5. The divide is evident in income levels, with u

Climate change

  1. Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns caused by natural and human activities.
  2. The main driver of climate change is the increase in greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).
  3. Human activities like fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, and industrial processes are major contributors to GHG emissions.
  4. Global warming, a key aspect of climate change, refers to the rise in Earth's average

Applications in urban planning, disaster management

  1. GIS (Geographic Information System) is a technology that integrates spatial and non-spatial data for analysis and decision-making.
  2. It is widely used in urban planning and disaster management to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
  3. GIS helps in mapping and analyzing land use and land cover in urban areas.
  4. It is essential for site selection for infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, and transportation hubs.
  5. GIS facilitates the creation of master pl

Satellite imagery

  1. Satellite imagery refers to images of Earth or other planets collected by artificial satellites.
  2. It is a core component of remote sensing, allowing observation without physical contact.
  3. Satellite imagery provides data for studying geography, meteorology, and environmental science.
  4. It helps in monitoring land use and land cover changes.
  5. Satellites capture data in multiple spectral bands, including visible, infrared, and m

Map reading and interpretation

  1. Map reading involves understanding the symbols, scales, and features depicted on a map.
  2. Map interpretation is the process of analyzing map data to derive meaningful insights.
  3. Maps use a legend or key to explain the symbols and colors used.
  4. The scale indicates the relationship between distances on the map and actual ground distances.
  5. Orientation is determined using a north arrow or compass rose shown on the map.
  6. Contour lines on t

Topographic, thematic and political maps

  1. Cartography is the art and science of creating maps to represent geographical information.
  2. Topographic maps depict the natural and artificial features of a region in detail.
  3. They use contour lines to show elevation and terrain.
  4. Topographic maps are widely used for hiking, military planning, and geological studies.
  5. Features in topographic maps include rivers, mountains, roads, and settlements.
  6. Scale

Types of maps

  1. Maps are graphical representations of the Earth's surface used to convey spatial information.
  2. They are classified into various types based on purpose, scale, and content.
  3. Physical maps depict natural features like mountains, rivers, plains, and deserts.
  4. Political maps show boundaries, countries, states, and major cities.
  5. Thematic maps focus on specific themes such as population density, climate, or vegetation.
  6. Topographic