1. What is Nature and Environment?
- Nature includes all physical and biological entities such as forests, rivers, animals, and mountains.
- Environment refers to the surroundings in which living organisms exist. It includes both natural components and human-made structures.
2. Climate and Climate Change
2.1 Climate
Climate refers to the long-term average of weather patterns in a particular region.
2.2 Climate Change
Climate change is a significant and lasting alteration in climate patterns over decades or longer.
Causes of Climate Change
A. Natural Causes
- Solar Activity – Variations in the sun’s energy output
- Albedo Effect – Changes in reflectivity of Earth’s surface or cloud cover
- Volcanic Eruptions – Ash clouds can block sunlight, temporarily cooling Earth
B. Human-Induced Causes
- Emission of greenhouse gases (CO₂, CH₄)
- Deforestation
- Industrialization and burning of fossil fuels
Effects of Climate Change
- Rising global temperatures
- Melting glaciers and sea level rise
- Increased frequency of extreme weather events
- Loss of biodiversity
- Disruption of agriculture and food security
Control Measures
- Reducing emissions of greenhouse gases
- Protecting forests and promoting afforestation
- Using energy-efficient technologies
- Practicing the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
- Raising public awareness through education
3. Endangered Species of Nepal
Mammals and Birds of Concern
- Mammals: Bengal Tiger, One-Horned Rhinoceros, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Chinese Pangolin, Gharial
- Birds: White-Rumped Vulture, Spiny Babbler
Reasons for Endangerment
- Loss of habitat
- Poaching and illegal hunting
- Pollution
- Climate change
- Invasive species
4. Conservation of Endangered and Rare Plants in Nepal
Major Methods:
- Establishment of Protected Areas (e.g., national parks, reserves)
- Reforestation and habitat restoration
- Ex situ conservation in botanical gardens and seed banks
- Involving local communities in conservation efforts
- Scientific research and monitoring of species populations
- Implementation of legal protections under wildlife acts
- Public awareness campaigns through education and outreach
5. Conservation of Endangered and Rare Animals
Key Strategies:
- Protected habitats (e.g., Chitwan, Bardia, Sagarmatha, Langtang National Parks)
- Anti-poaching units and wildlife policing
- Community-based conservation involving local stewards
- Translocation of animals to safer habitats
- International cooperation on species preservation
- Habitat restoration and ecological balance
- Legal enforcement and fines for violations
- Public awareness programs
Example of Success:
Vulture populations in Nepal have improved due to safe feeding zones, a ban on diclofenac, and community-led conservation programs.
6. Protected Animals and Birds of Nepal
According to the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (NPWC) Act, 2029:
Mammals (selected examples):
Birds (selected examples):
- Giant Hornbill
- Bengal Florican
- Cheer Pheasant
- Himalayan Monal
- Lesser Florican
7. Common Medicinal Plants of Nepal
| Plant Name | Scientific Name | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Holy Basil (Tulsi) | Ocimum sanctum | Boosts immunity, supports respiration |
| Neem | Azadirachta indica | Antimicrobial, improves skin health |
| Heart-leaved Moonseed | Tinospora cordifolia | Antioxidant, immune booster |
| Turmeric | Curcuma longa | Anti-inflammatory, wound healing |
| Asiatic Pennywort | Centella asiatica | Enhances skin regeneration |
| Aloe Vera | Aloe barbadensis | Soothes skin, digestive aid |
| Yarsa Gumba (Caterpillar Fungus) | Cordyceps sinensis | Increases stamina and energy |
| Malabar Nut | Adhatoda vasica | Treats respiratory ailments |
| Calamus (Bhojo) | Acorus calamus | Used for digestive health |
| Mugwort | Artemisia vulgaris | Cosmetic and insect-repellent use |
Quick Revision Summary
• Nature refers to living and non-living natural components
• Environment includes nature + human-made surroundings
• Climate change is caused by both natural and human factors
• Key effects: warming, glacier melt, biodiversity loss
• Nepal’s endangered species include the tiger, rhino, panda, etc.
• Conservation includes protected areas, law enforcement, and public participation
• Nepal has a rich diversity of medicinal plants used traditionally
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Confusing climate with weather (weather is short-term)
• Listing only human causes of climate change; natural causes also exist
• Mixing in situ (in natural habitat) with ex situ (outside habitat) conservation
• Forgetting local examples from Nepal when discussing conservation
also learn :- chapter 1 , chapter 2 , chapter 3 , chapter 4 , chapter 5
