Environmental & Ecological Changes MCQ — 588 Practice Questions with Answers

Explanation

Eutrophication occurs when excess nitrogen and phosphorus (from fertilizers, sewage, detergents) enter water bodies, causing algal blooms. When algae die, decomposition consumes oxygen, creating hypoxic 'dead zones.' This is a major threat to lakes, coastal areas, and the Gulf of Mexico dead zone.

Explanation

NRCP was launched in 1995 by expanding the Ganga Action Plan (launched 1985 by Rajiv Gandhi) to cover polluted stretches of other major rivers. The Namami Gange Programme (2014) is the latest integrated conservation mission for the Ganga.

Explanation

Bharat Stage emission standards are based on European Euro emission norms. India moved directly from BS-IV to BS-VI on 1 April 2020, skipping BS-V. BS-VI is equivalent to Euro-6 standards.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct because UNFCCC was opened for signature at Rio in June 1992 and entered into force on March 21, 1994. Statement 2 is correct because Kyoto's first commitment period was 2008-2012. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Vienna Convention was a framework; the Montreal Protocol of 1987 carried the specific binding targets. Statement 4 is correct because India signed the Paris Agreement on April 22, 2016 and ratified it on October 2, 2016.

Explanation

Seagrass meadows are among the most effective carbon sinks on Earth, sequestering ~35 times faster than tropical rainforests per unit area. They also support fisheries (nursery habitat), prevent erosion, and improve water quality. India has seagrass in Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and Lakshadweep.