Introduction Urbanization is one of the most powerful and transformative processes shaping the Earth’s surface today. While cities are engines of economic growth and human development, they also profoundly alter the natural environment. Among the most significant and widely studied environmental impacts of urbanization is the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon—a condition where urban areas…
Introduction Coral reefs, often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” are among the most biologically diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. They provide shelter, food, and breeding grounds for nearly one-quarter of all marine species, despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. Beyond biodiversity, coral ecosystems contribute to human societies by…
Introduction Climate change has accelerated the melting of polar ice in both the Arctic and Antarctic regions, leading to significant consequences for global weather systems and human societies. While both regions are polar and covered by ice, the Arctic is a frozen ocean surrounded by land, whereas the Antarctic is a frozen continent surrounded by…
Introduction In an era where environmental degradation and resource depletion are major concerns, the search for sustainable solutions often leads us back to age-old practices that have long coexisted with nature. Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) — the cumulative body of knowledge, practices, and beliefs regarding the relationship of living beings with one another and their…
Introduction to Watersheds A watershed is a land area that drains or “sheds” water into a common body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean. It is defined by the boundaries of the highest points of land, which direct rainfall and other forms of precipitation into streams, rivers, or other water sources within…
Introduction Water scarcity and depleting groundwater levels have become pressing concerns in India, threatening agricultural productivity and sustainable development. Recognizing this challenge, the Government of India launched the Atal Bhujal Yojana (ATAL JAL) on December 25, 2019, commemorating the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The scheme primarily focuses on ensuring sustainable…