Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Chapter Overview
- 3. NCERT Notes
- 4. Introduction to Environment and Development
- 5. Economic Development and Environment
- 6. Environment — Meaning and Functions
- 7. Meaning of Environment
- 8. Functions of Environment
- 9. Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources
- 10. Environmental Crisis
- 11. Global Warming
- 12. Ozone Depletion
- 13. State of India’s Environment
- 14. India’s Natural Resources
- 15. Major Environmental Problems in India
- 16. Land Degradation
- 17. Causes of Land Degradation
- 18. Pollution Control Boards
- 19. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- 20. Vehicular Pollution in India / Vehicular Pollution
- 21. Sustainable Development
- 22. Meaning of Sustainable Development
- 23. Brundtland Commission
- 24. Herman Daly’s Suggestions
- 25. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- 26. Strategies for Sustainable Development
- 27. Non-Conventional Sources of Energy
- 28. LPG and Gobar Gas
- 29. CNG in Urban Areas / Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
- 30. Wind Energy / Wind Power
- 31. Solar Power / Solar Energy through Photovoltaic Cells
- 32. Mini-Hydel Plants
- 33. Traditional Knowledge and Practices / Traditional Practices
- 34. Biocomposting
- 35. Biopest Control
- 36. Conclusion / Important Facts
- 37. Important Concepts and Terms
- 38. Important Tables and Data
- 39. Important Questions
- 40. FAQs
- 41. Quick Revision Summary
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These Class 11 Economics Chapter 7 Notes explain environment, environmental degradation, pollution, sustainable development, renewable resources, global warming, ozone depletion and sustainable development strategies in India. (NCERT Pages 115–131)
This chapter is highly important for CBSE, UPSC, SSC, Railways, CUET and State PSC examinations because questions are frequently asked on environmental functions, pollution control, sustainable development goals, renewable energy and environmental conservation.
Chapter Overview
This chapter discusses the relationship between environment and economic development, environmental crisis, environmental degradation in India and strategies for sustainable development. (NCERT Pages 115–131)
Major Topics Covered
- Meaning and Functions of Environment
- Environmental Crisis
- Global Warming
- Ozone Depletion
- State of India’s Environment
- Land Degradation
- Pollution
- Sustainable Development
- Sustainable Development Strategies
- Renewable Energy Sources
- Biocomposting and Biopest Control
NCERT Notes
Introduction to Environment and Development (NCERT Page 116)
These notes explain the relationship between economic development and environment.
Economic Development and Environment
Important Facts
- Economic development has caused environmental degradation.
- Globalisation and industrialisation have increased pressure on natural resources.
- Sustainable development is necessary for long-term growth.
Important Point
Development without environmental protection leads to environmental crisis.
(NCERT Page 116)
Environment — Meaning and Functions (NCERT Pages 116–117)
These notes explain the meaning and functions of environment.
Meaning of Environment
Definition
Environment refers to the total planetary inheritance and totality of all resources.
Components of Environment
| Component | Examples |
|---|---|
| Biotic Components | Plants, animals, forests, fisheries |
| Abiotic Components | Air, water, land, rocks, sunlight |
Important Fact
- Environment includes interaction between biotic and abiotic elements.
Functions of Environment
Four Major Functions
| Function | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Supply of Resources | Provides renewable and non-renewable resources |
| Assimilation of Waste | Absorbs waste generated by production and consumption |
| Sustains Life | Maintains biodiversity and ecological balance |
| Aesthetic Services | Provides scenic beauty and recreation |
Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources
Renewable Resources
Resources that can regenerate naturally.
Examples
| Example |
|---|
| Forests |
| Fisheries |
| Water |
Non-Renewable Resources
Resources that get exhausted after use.
Examples
| Example |
|---|
| Coal |
| Petroleum |
| Fossil fuels |
(NCERT Pages 116–117)
Environmental Crisis (NCERT Pages 117–120)
These notes explain causes of environmental crisis.
Environmental Crisis
Meaning
Environmental crisis occurs when environmental resources are overused beyond their carrying capacity.
Important Causes
| Cause |
|---|
| Population explosion |
| Industrialisation |
| Affluent consumption |
| Overuse of resources |
| Pollution |
Important Facts
- Pollution exceeds absorptive capacity of environment.
- Water has become an economic commodity due to scarcity.
- Many renewable resources are getting exhausted.
Important Data
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Polluted water in India | About 70% |
(NCERT Pages 117–120)
Global Warming (NCERT Page 118)
These notes explain global warming.
Global Warming
Meaning
Gradual increase in Earth’s atmospheric temperature due to greenhouse gases.
Major Greenhouse Gases
| Gas |
|---|
| Carbon dioxide |
| Methane |
| Nitrous oxide |
Causes
| Cause |
|---|
| Burning of fossil fuels |
| Deforestation |
| Industrialisation |
| Vehicle emissions |
Effects
| Effect |
|---|
| Melting of polar ice |
| Rise in sea level |
| Coastal flooding |
| More tropical storms |
| Spread of diseases |
Important Fact
- Kyoto Conference (1997) aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
(NCERT Page 118)
Ozone Depletion (NCERT Page 119)
These notes explain ozone depletion.
Ozone Depletion
Meaning
Reduction in ozone layer in the stratosphere.
Causes
| Cause |
|---|
| Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) |
| Halons |
| Aerosol chemicals |
Effects
| Effect |
|---|
| Skin cancer |
| Damage to plants |
| Harm to aquatic life |
| Increased UV radiation |
Important Fact
- Montreal Protocol banned ozone-depleting chemicals.
(NCERT Page 119)
State of India’s Environment (NCERT Pages 120–123)
These notes explain environmental conditions in India.
India’s Natural Resources
Important Resources
| Resource |
|---|
| Fertile soil |
| Forests |
| Rivers |
| Mineral deposits |
| Natural gas |
| Iron ore |
Important Facts
- India has nearly 8% of world iron ore reserves.
- Developmental activities have increased environmental pressure.
Major Environmental Problems in India
| Problem |
|---|
| Land degradation |
| Biodiversity loss |
| Air pollution |
| Water contamination |
| Deforestation |
| Solid waste management |
(NCERT Pages 120–123)
Land Degradation (NCERT Pages 122–123)
These notes explain land degradation.
Causes of Land Degradation
| Cause |
|---|
| Deforestation |
| Overgrazing |
| Shifting cultivation |
| Soil erosion |
| Excessive use of fertilisers |
| Excessive irrigation |
| Groundwater overuse |
Important Facts
- India supports 17% of world population on only 2.5% of world geographical area.
- Soil erosion causes huge nutrient loss every year.
Important Data
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Soil erosion annually | 5.3 billion tonnes |
(NCERT Pages 122–123)
Pollution Control Boards (NCERT Page 123)
These notes explain pollution control boards.
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
Important Facts
- CPCB was established in 1974.
- State Pollution Control Boards were also established.
Major Functions
| Function |
|---|
| Monitor pollution |
| Set pollution standards |
| Conduct research |
| Promote environmental awareness |
| Monitor river water quality |
Important Fact
- CPCB identified 17 highly polluting industries.
(NCERT Page 123)
Vehicular Pollution in India (NCERT Page 123)
These notes explain vehicle pollution.
Vehicular Pollution
Important Facts
- Vehicles are major contributors to urban air pollution.
- Ground-level emissions affect human health directly.
Important Data
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Vehicles in India (1951) | About 3 lakh |
| Vehicles in India (2022) | About 35 crore |
Important Fact
- Two-wheelers and cars form about 85% of registered vehicles.
(NCERT Page 123)
Sustainable Development (NCERT Pages 124–125)
These notes explain sustainable development.
Meaning of Sustainable Development
Definition
Development that meets the needs of present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Important Features
| Feature |
|---|
| Conservation of resources |
| Intergenerational equity |
| Reduction in pollution |
| Environmental protection |
| Long-term development |
Brundtland Commission
Important Point
Present generation must leave adequate resources for future generations.
Herman Daly’s Suggestions
| Suggestion |
|---|
| Limit population growth |
| Promote efficient technology |
| Use renewable resources sustainably |
| Reduce pollution |
| Develop renewable substitutes |
(NCERT Pages 124–125)
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Important Fact
- United Nations introduced 17 SDGs in 2015.
- Target year for SDGs is 2030.
(NCERT Page 125)
Strategies for Sustainable Development (NCERT Pages 125–128)
These notes explain sustainable development strategies.
Non-Conventional Sources of Energy
Examples
| Source |
|---|
| Solar energy |
| Wind energy |
| Mini-hydel plants |
| Biogas |
Important Facts
- Thermal power causes pollution.
- Renewable energy reduces environmental damage.
(NCERT Page 125)
LPG and Gobar Gas (NCERT Page 126)
These notes explain rural energy alternatives.
LPG and Gobar Gas
Benefits of LPG
| Benefit |
|---|
| Reduces air pollution |
| Cleaner fuel |
| Saves forests |
Gobar Gas Benefits
| Benefit |
|---|
| Produces fuel |
| Generates organic fertiliser |
| Reduces waste |
(NCERT Page 126)
CNG in Urban Areas (NCERT Page 126)
These notes explain CNG use.
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
Important Facts
- Delhi introduced CNG in public transport.
- CNG reduced urban air pollution significantly.
(NCERT Page 126)
Wind Energy (NCERT Page 126)
These notes explain wind power.
Wind Power
Important Facts
- Wind turbines generate electricity using wind energy.
- Wind power causes very little pollution.
Limitation
Initial setup cost is high.
(NCERT Page 126)
Solar Power (NCERT Page 127)
These notes explain solar power.
Solar Energy through Photovoltaic Cells
Important Facts
- Solar cells convert sunlight into electricity.
- Solar power is useful in remote areas.
- Solar energy is pollution-free.
Important Fact
- India leads the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
(NCERT Page 127)
Mini-Hydel Plants (NCERT Page 127)
These notes explain mini-hydel plants.
Mini-Hydel Plants
Important Facts
- Small streams are used to generate electricity.
- Mini-hydel plants are environment-friendly.
- They reduce transmission losses.
(NCERT Page 127)
Traditional Knowledge and Practices (NCERT Page 127)
These notes explain traditional environmental practices.
Traditional Practices
Important Facts
- Traditional Indian systems were environment-friendly.
- Ayurveda and herbal medicines are regaining importance.
Important Data
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Medicinal plant species in India | About 15,000 |
(NCERT Page 127)
Biocomposting (NCERT Pages 127–128)
These notes explain biocomposting.
Biocomposting
Meaning
Conversion of organic waste into compost manure.
Important Facts
- Excessive chemical fertilisers damaged soil fertility.
- Earthworms speed up compost production.
(NCERT Pages 127–128)
Biopest Control (NCERT Page 128)
These notes explain eco-friendly pest control.
Biopest Control
Important Facts
- Chemical pesticides caused contamination.
- Neem-based pesticides are environment-friendly.
Biological Pest Controllers
| Example |
|---|
| Snakes |
| Owls |
| Peacocks |
| Lizards |
(NCERT Page 128)
Conclusion (NCERT Page 128)
These notes explain the importance of sustainable development.
Important Facts
- Economic development increases pressure on environment.
- Sustainable development reduces environmental damage.
- Future generations must also have access to resources.
(NCERT Page 128)
Important Concepts and Terms
These concepts are highly important for exams.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Environment | Totality of all resources |
| Renewable resources | Resources that regenerate naturally |
| Non-renewable resources | Exhaustible resources |
| Global warming | Increase in Earth’s temperature |
| Ozone depletion | Reduction in ozone layer |
| Sustainable development | Development protecting future needs |
| Land degradation | Decline in land quality |
| Biocomposting | Conversion of organic waste into compost |
| Biopest control | Biological pest management |
Looking for other chapters notes ?
Class 11 Economics Chapter 1: Indian Economy on the Eve of Independence Notes
Class 11 Economics Chapter 2 Notes: Indian Economy 1950–1990
Class 11 Economics Chapter 3 Notes – Liberalisation, Privatisation and Globalisation: An Appraisal
Class 11 Economics Chapter 4 Notes – Human Capital Formation in India
Class 11 Economics Chapter 5 Notes – Rural Development
Class 11 Economics Chapter 6 Notes – Employment: Growth, Informalisation and Other Issues
Class 11 Economics Chapter 8 Notes – Comparative Development Experiences of India and Its Neighbours
Important Tables and Data
These statistics are frequently asked in exams.
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Polluted water in India | About 70% |
| India’s share in world population | 17% |
| India’s geographical area | 2.5% of world |
| Vehicles in India (2022) | About 35 crore |
| Soil erosion annually | 5.3 billion tonnes |
| Iron ore reserves in India | Nearly 8% of world reserves |
Important Questions
These questions are useful for CBSE, UPSC, SSC and CUET preparation.
Very Short Answer Questions
- Define environment. (NCERT Page 116)
- What are renewable resources? (NCERT Page 116)
- What is global warming? (NCERT Page 118)
- What is ozone depletion? (NCERT Page 119)
- Define sustainable development. (NCERT Page 124)
- What is land degradation? (NCERT Page 122)
- What is biocomposting? (NCERT Page 127)
Short Answer Questions
- Explain the functions of environment. (NCERT Pages 116–117)
- Explain causes of environmental crisis. (NCERT Pages 117–120)
- Discuss causes of land degradation in India. (NCERT Pages 122–123)
- Explain sustainable development. (NCERT Pages 124–125)
- Explain the role of renewable energy in sustainable development. (NCERT Pages 125–127)
Long Answer Questions
- Discuss the environmental challenges facing India. (NCERT Pages 120–123)
- Explain the concept of sustainable development and its importance. (NCERT Pages 124–125)
- Explain strategies for sustainable development in India. (NCERT Pages 125–128)
- Discuss causes and effects of global warming and ozone depletion. (NCERT Pages 118–119)
- Explain the importance of traditional knowledge in environmental conservation. (NCERT Page 127)
FAQs
These FAQs help in quick revision.
1. What are the four functions of environment?
Environment supplies resources, assimilates waste, sustains life and provides aesthetic services. (NCERT Pages 116–117)
2. What is sustainable development?
Development that meets present needs without harming future generations. (NCERT Page 124)
3. What causes global warming?
Increase in greenhouse gases due to fossil fuels and deforestation causes global warming. (NCERT Page 118)
4. What is the role of CPCB?
CPCB monitors and controls pollution in India. (NCERT Page 123)
5. Why is solar energy important?
Solar energy is renewable, clean and pollution-free. (NCERT Page 127)
Quick Revision Summary
These quick points are useful for last-minute revision.
- Environment performs four important functions.
- Renewable resources regenerate naturally.
- Overuse of resources leads to environmental crisis.
- About 70% of water in India is polluted.
- Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases.
- Ozone depletion is caused mainly by CFCs.
- India faces land degradation and pollution problems.
- CPCB was established in 1974.
- Sustainable development protects future generations.
- United Nations introduced 17 SDGs in 2015.
- Renewable energy reduces environmental damage.
- CNG reduced air pollution in Delhi.
- Solar power is pollution-free.
- Biocomposting improves soil fertility naturally
- Neem-based pesticides are eco-friendly.