Target Dreams

During the first day of COP28 in Dubai, countries reached a historic agreement to operationalise the long-demanded Loss and Damage Fund.  This fund aims to financially assist developing nations in recovering from climate disasters, addressing the disproportionate impact on these nations. The immediate infusion of over $400 million into the fund is seen as a major step forward. The Purpose and Impact of the Loss and Damage Fund The Loss and Damage Fund provides financial assistance to developing countries affected by climate disasters, covering both economic and non-economic losses. Developed nations are obligated to contribute resources to help these countries cope with climate change impacts.  A study estimates a $1.5 trillion loss globally in 2022, with least developed countries experiencing an 8% GDP loss on average. Historical Responsibility: Industrial Era and Greenhouse Gas Emissions The Industrial Era, starting in 1850, significantly contributed to greenhouse gas emissions, with

The " State of India’s Birds, 2023 " report indicates a general decline in the numbers of most bird species in the country, with some currently declining and others projected to decline in the long term.  The report is based on data from approximately 30,000 birdwatchers and assesses the distribution range, trends in abundance, and conservation status of India's bird species. The report was conducted by 13 partner organisations, including the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and Zoological Survey of India (ZSI). The assessments rely on three indices. Two of them are related to change in abundance — long-term trend (change over 30 years) and current annual trend (change over past seven years) — and  The third is a measure of distribution range size in India. Key findings from the report : Decline in Raptors and Migratory Birds:  Raptors (birds of prey), migratory shorebirds, and ducks have experienced the most significant declines. Long-distance migrants, such as birds fr

This Post is based on the article " Resisting Landslides- Building resilience against landslides " Which is Published in the The Indian Express  on 23rd August 2023.   Fragile Himalayan Ecosystem The Himalayas, a young and rugged mountain chain, are susceptible to various natural and human-induced activities.  Tectonic movements, erosion, weathering, and climate events like heavy precipitation and freezing/thawing pose threats, resulting in landslides, floods, and avalanches.  Human activities further accelerate stress on this delicate ecosystem. Urgent Measures for Resilience:  To combat these challenges, the region must establish resilience against geo-hazards through an integrated approach.  This includes deploying a network of sensors, real-time monitoring, and AI/ML-based Early Warning Systems (EWS).  These tools can help anticipate and mitigate the impact of natural processes, environmental degradation, and human actions. Climate Change and Vulnerability The impacts of

Drought is an extended period of dryness within the natural climate cycle, capable of manifesting anywhere in the world. It represents a gradual-onset disaster characterised by insufficient precipitation, leading to a deficit in water supply. The ramifications of droughts are far-reaching, profoundly impacting economies, public health, agriculture, energy production, and the overall natural and physical environment. Classification of Drought: 1. Meteorological Drought: Meteorological drought occurs when an extended period with inadequate and unevenly distributed rainfall is experienced. As defined by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), a drought is recognized when the average annual rainfall is less than 75% of the historical average. Causes: Scanty monsoon rains and subpar precipitation Delayed onset or premature withdrawal of the monsoon Prolonged interruptions in monsoon rainfall 2. Hydrological Drought: Hydrological drought transpires when the available water in various res