January 15, 2025

Role of an individual in the conservation of natural resources: EVS Notes

Role of an individual in the conservation of natural resources: EVS Notes

EVS Notes Unit I Multidisciplinary nature, Natural Resources, Forest resources, Water resources, Mineral resources, Food resources, Energy resources, Land resources, Role of an individual Unit II Introduction structure-function, Forest eco-system; Grassland ecosystem; Desert ecosystem; Aquatic ecosystems Unit III Air pollution, Water pollution, Soil pollution


Role of an Individual

Natural resources like forests, water, soil, food, minerals and energy resources play an important role in the economy and development of a nation. Humans can play important role in the conservation of natural resources. A little effort by individuals can help to conserve these resources which are a gift of nature to human being.

A brief description of the role of individuals to conserve different types of natural resources is given below:

Roles to conserve water

• To minimise the evaporation losses irrigate the crops, the plants and the lawns in the evening because water application during the daytime will lead to more loss of water due to a higher rate of evapotranspiration.
• Improve water efficiency by using the optimum amount of water in the washing machines, dishwashers and other domestic appliances, etc.
• Install water-saving toilets which use less water per flush.
• Check for water leaks in pipes and toilets and repair them promptly.
• Don’t keep water taps running while they are not in use.
• Recycle water from the washing clothes for gardening.
• Installing rainwater harvesting structure to conserve water for future use.

We can also use polluted water after recycling the same. Limit test for heavy metals like arsenic, chloride, have been prescribed for water pollution

Ways individuals can conserve water

As water is a finite resource, it is important for individuals to take an active role in conserving water. Here are some ways in which individuals can conserve water:

  1. Fix leaks: Leaks, no matter how small, can waste a significant amount of water. Check your taps, pipes, and toilets for leaks and get them fixed as soon as possible.
  2. Install water-efficient appliances: Upgrading to water-efficient appliances, such as low-flow toilets, showerheads, and washing machines, can significantly reduce water usage.
  3. Practice efficient watering: When watering plants or lawns, water early in the morning or later in the evening to minimize evaporation. Use a broom to clean driveways and sidewalks instead of a hose.
  4. Reduce shower time: Taking shorter showers can save a significant amount of water.
  5. Use drought-resistant plants: Choose drought-resistant plants for landscaping, which require less water and maintenance.
  6. Collect rainwater: Collecting rainwater in a barrel or tank can be used for watering plants or other outdoor activities.
  7. Be mindful: Be mindful of water usage in everyday activities, such as brushing your teeth, washing dishes, and doing laundry.

By taking these simple steps, individuals can make a significant impact on conserving water. This not only helps to preserve this valuable resource, but it also saves money on water bills and reduces the strain on local water resources.

Energy conservation for future use

• Turn off all electric appliances such as lights, fans, televisions, computers, etc when not in use.
• Clean all the lighting sources regularly because dust on lighting sources decreases lighting levels up to 20-30%
• Try to harvest energy from natural resources to obtain heat, for example, drying the clothes in sun and avoiding drying in the washing machine.
• Save liquid petroleum gas (LPG) by using solar cookers for cooking.
• Design the house with provision for sunspace to keep the house warm and to provide more light.
• Avoid misuse of vehicles for transportation and if possible share car journeys to minimise the use of petrol/diesel. For small distances walk down or just use bicycles.
• Minimise the use of air conditioner to save energy

Ways individuals can conserve energy

As global energy demand continues to grow, it is increasingly important for individuals to take an active role in energy conservation. Here are some ways in which individuals can conserve energy:

  1. Use energy-efficient appliances: Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, such as LED light bulbs, Energy Star-rated refrigerators and washing machines, can significantly reduce energy usage.
  2. Reduce, reuse, recycle: Reducing waste, reusing items, and recycling can save energy and resources.
  3. Reduce electricity usage: Simple steps like turning off lights and electronics when they’re not in use, using natural light instead of artificial light, and unplugging chargers when they’re not in use can help conserve energy.
  4. Improve insulation: Improving the insulation in your home can help reduce heating and cooling costs.
  5. Drive less: Using public transportation, carpooling, biking, or walking instead of driving can save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  6. Use renewable energy: Consider investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, to reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
  7. Educate others: Share your knowledge and encourage others to conserve energy.

By taking these simple steps, individuals can make a significant impact on conserving energy for future use. This not only helps to preserve this valuable resource, but it also saves money on energy bills and reduces the strain on local energy resources.

Protect soil health

• Use organic manure/compost to maintain soil fertility
• To avoid soil erosion do not irrigate the plants by using the fast flow of water.
• Use sprinkler irrigation to conserve the soil.
Design a landscape of lawn in a large area which will help to bind soil to avoid erosion.
• Provide vegetation cover by growing of the ornamental plants, herbs and trees in your garden.
• Use vegetable waste to prepare compost to use in kitchen gardening.

Ways individuals can protct soil health

Soil is a critical natural resource that provides the foundation for plant growth and supports many other important ecosystem services. It is essential for individuals to take an active role in protecting soil health to ensure that this valuable resource remains productive and sustainable. Here are some ways in which individuals can protect soil health:

  1. Reduce tillage: Minimize the disturbance of soil through tillage, which can reduce soil erosion and improve soil structure.
  2. Use cover crops: Plant cover crops, such as clover or grasses, to help reduce soil erosion and improve soil fertility.
  3. Use compost: Use compost instead of chemical fertilizers to improve soil fertility and structure, and reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills.
  4. Conserve water: Proper water management practices, such as reducing runoff and improving infiltration, can help conserve soil moisture and reduce soil erosion.
  5. Reduce pesticide use: Minimize the use of pesticides, as they can harm soil-dwelling organisms and pollute the environment.
  6. Support sustainable agriculture: Support sustainable agriculture practices that protect soil health, such as conservation tillage, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
  7. Educate others: Share your knowledge and encourage others to protect soil health.

By taking these simple steps, individuals can make a significant impact on protecting soil health. This not only helps to preserve this valuable resource, but it also supports sustainable agriculture and helps maintain the overall health of our ecosystems.

Promote sustainable agriculture

• Diversify the existing cropping pattern for the sustainability of agriculture
• Cultivate need-based crop
• Maintain soil fertility
• Make optimum use of fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals for the production and processing of agricultural products
• Save grains in storage to minimise the losses
• Improve indigenous breeds of milch animals for sustainable dairy production systems.
• Adopt post-harvest technologies for value addition

Ways individuals can promote sustainable agriculture

Sustainable agriculture is a vital component of a healthy and resilient food system, and individuals play a critical role in promoting this type of agriculture. Here are some ways in which individuals can promote sustainable agriculture:

  1. Support local and organic farmers: Buying locally grown and organic food supports farmers who are using sustainable agriculture practices.
  2. Grow your own food: Plant a vegetable garden, even if it’s just a small one, to learn more about sustainable agriculture and where your food comes from.
  3. Shop at farmers markets: Shopping at farmers markets is a great way to support local farmers and learn about sustainable agriculture practices.
  4. Educate others: Share your knowledge and encourage others to support sustainable agriculture.
  5. Advocate for policy change: Advocate for policies that support sustainable agriculture, such as conservation programs, funding for research, and education initiatives.
  6. Reduce food waste: Reduce food waste by planning meals, shopping wisely, and storing food properly to reduce the amount of food that goes to waste.
  7. Choose sustainably grown products: When shopping for food and other products, look for products that are grown using sustainable agriculture practices, such as those with certifications like USDA Organic or Fair Trade.

By taking these simple steps, individuals can make a significant impact on promoting sustainable agriculture. This not only supports farmers and the local food economy, but it also helps to protect natural resources and maintain the overall health of our food system.

Equitable Use of Resources for Sustainable LifeStyle

In the last 50 years, the consumption of resources in society has increased many folds. There is a big gap in the consumer’s lifestyles between developed and developing countries. Urbanisation has changed the lifestyle of the middle-class population in developing countries creating more stress on the use of natural resources.

It has been estimated that More Developed Countries (MDC) of the world constitute only 22% of the world’s population but they use 88% of natural resources. These countries use 73% of energy resources and command 85% of income and in turn, they contribute a very big proportion of pollution.

On the other hand, less developed countries (LDCs) have moderate industrial growth and constitute 78% of the world’s population and use only 12% of natural resources, 27% of energy and only 15% of global income.

There is a huge gap between rich and poor. In this age of development, the rich have gone richer and the people with low-income is becoming more with low-income. This has led to unsustainable growth. There is an increasing global concern about the management of natural resources. The solution to this problem is to have a more equitable distribution of resources and income.

Two major causes of unsustainability are overpopulation in poor countries and overconsumption of resources by rich countries. A global consensus has to be reached for a balanced distribution of natural resources.

For equitable use of natural resources more developed countries/rich people have to lower their level of consumption to a bare minimum so that these resources can be shared by poor people to satisfy their needs. Time has come to think that it is need of the hour that rich and poor should make equitable use of resources for sustainable development of human being.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Role of an Individual in the Conservation of Natural Resources

Why is individual involvement important in the conservation of natural resources?

Individual involvement is crucial because every person’s actions collectively impact the environment. By making sustainable choices in daily life, individuals contribute to reducing resource depletion, conserving biodiversity, and minimizing pollution.

What are some simple ways individuals can conserve water at home?

Individuals can conserve water by fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, taking shorter showers, and practicing responsible irrigation. Collecting rainwater and using it for gardening is also a sustainable practice.

How can individuals reduce energy consumption and promote energy conservation?

Individuals can save energy by using energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and electronics. Unplugging devices when not in use, setting thermostats responsibly, and opting for renewable energy sources like solar power are also effective measures.

What role does reducing, reusing, and recycling play in resource conservation?

The “3 Rs” (reduce, reuse, recycle) are fundamental principles of resource conservation. By reducing consumption, reusing items, and recycling materials like paper, plastic, and glass, individuals can minimize waste and the strain on natural resources.

How can individuals contribute to the conservation of forests and biodiversity?

Individuals can support forest conservation by avoiding products linked to deforestation, planting trees, participating in habitat restoration projects, and advocating for protected areas. Respecting wildlife and refraining from illegal poaching or trafficking is also vital.

What is the role of sustainable transportation in natural resource conservation?

Opting for public transportation, carpooling, biking, or walking reduces carbon emissions and lessens the demand for fossil fuels. This helps in conserving non-renewable resources and mitigating air pollution.

How can individuals promote responsible consumption of food and resources?

Buying locally-produced and organic foods, reducing meat consumption, and minimizing food waste contribute to sustainable agriculture and reduce the environmental impact of food production.

Why is proper waste disposal important for natural resource conservation?

Proper waste disposal, including segregation and recycling, prevents pollution of land, water bodies, and air. It also reduces the need for more landfills, which can negatively affect ecosystems.

How can individuals support marine and aquatic resource conservation?

Individuals can help protect oceans and water bodies by reducing plastic use, avoiding single-use items, participating in beach clean-ups, and supporting organizations working to preserve marine ecosystems.

What is the significance of raising awareness and advocating for policy changes in resource conservation?

Raising awareness about conservation issues and advocating for sustainable policies can drive larger-scale change. Individuals can participate in community initiatives, support conservation organizations, and engage in environmental advocacy to influence government decisions.

How can education and lifestyle choices influence resource conservation for future generations?

Educating oneself and others about the importance of resource conservation can lead to informed choices and behaviors. Modeling sustainable lifestyles and passing down eco-friendly values to future generations ensure a more sustainable future.

What are some resources for individuals to learn more and get involved in conservation efforts?

There are numerous online resources, environmental organizations, workshops, and community groups dedicated to conservation. These platforms provide information, tools, and opportunities for individuals to actively participate in resource conservation.


First Year B Pharm Notes, Syllabus, Books, PDF Subjectwise/Topicwise

F Y B Pharm Sem-IF Y B Pharm Sem-II
BP101T Human Anatomy and Physiology I TheoryBP201T Human Anatomy and Physiology II – Theory
BP102T Pharmaceutical Analysis I TheoryBP202T Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry I Theory
BP103T Pharmaceutics I TheoryBP203T Biochemistry – Theory
BP104T Pharmaceutical Inorganic Chemistry TheoryBP204T Pathophysiology – Theory
BP105T Communication skills TheoryBP205T Computer Applications in Pharmacy Theory
BP106RBT Remedial BiologyBP206T Environmental sciences – Theory
BP106RMT Remedial Mathematics TheoryBP207P Human Anatomy and Physiology II Practical
BP107P Human Anatomy and Physiology PracticalBP208P Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry I Practical
BP108P Pharmaceutical Analysis I PracticalBP209P Biochemistry Practical
BP109P Pharmaceutics I PracticalBP210P Computer Applications in Pharmacy Practical
BP110P Pharmaceutical Inorganic Chemistry Practical
BP111P Communication skills Practical
BP112RBP Remedial Biology Practical

Suggested readings

Recommended readings:


प्राकृतिक संसाधनों के संरक्षण में व्यक्ति की भूमिका

प्राकृतिक संसाधनों के संरक्षण में व्यक्ति की भूमिका क्रित्रिम और भौतिक पर्यावरण की सुरक्षा और सुरक्षा को सुनिश्चित करने में महत्वपूर्ण होती है। यहां व्यक्ति की भूमिका कुछ मुख्य पहलुओं में समझाई गई है:

1. प्रदूषण कमीकरण और स्वच्छता: व्यक्तियों की जागरूकता और सहयोग के साथ, प्रदूषण को कम करने के उपाय अपनाए जा सकते हैं। यह वायु, जल, और मानव स्वास्थ्य को सुरक्षित रखने में मदद करता है।

2. वनस्पति और वन्यजीव संरक्षण: व्यक्तियों के द्वारा प्राकृतिक संसाधनों की ख्याति करने और वनस्पति और वन्यजीव संरक्षण के लिए उनके संरक्षण एवं प्रबंधन में भागीदारी करने के साथ, वन्यजीवों के संरक्षण में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका होती है।

3. जल संरक्षण: जल संसाधनों की सुरक्षा और संरक्षण में व्यक्तियों का सहयोग बेहद महत्वपूर्ण है। व्यक्तियों को समझाया जा सकता है कि जल का सही उपयोग करना, बर्बादी और विपरीत परिणामों से बचाने में मदद करता है।

4. जैव विविधता की संरक्षण: जैव विविधता की संरक्षण के लिए व्यक्तियों की भूमिका आवश्यक है। इसमें बागवानी, वन्यजीव संरक्षण, बायोडाइवर्सिटी के संरक्षण और पुनर्स्थापन के साथ-साथ समुदायों को जैव संसाधनों की महत्वपूर्णता के बारे में जागरूक करने में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका होती है।

5. बायो-रिसाइकलिंग और संरक्षण: बायो-रिसाइकलिंग और उपयोगिता सामग्री की सही प्रबंधन में व्यक्तियों की महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका होती है। उपयोगिता सामग्री की पुनः प्रयोग करके प्राकृतिक संसाधनों की खपत को कम किया जा सकता है।

6. शिक्षा और जागरूकता: व्यक्तियों को प्राकृतिक संसाधनों के महत्व के बारे में जागरूक करने और उन्हें इन्हें सुरक्षित रखने और संरक्षित करने के तरीकों के बारे में शिक्षा देने के माध्यम से व्यक्तियों को सक्षम किया जा सकता है।

7. प्राकृतिक संसाधनों के तात्कालिक और दीर्घकालिक प्रभावों की समझ: व्यक्तियों को समझाया जा सकता है कि प्राकृतिक संसाधनों के तात्कालिक और दीर्घकालिक प्रभाव कैसे हो सकते हैं और वे इन प्रभावों को कैसे कम कर सकते हैं।

8. स्वयं सहायता: व्यक्तियों को स्वयं सहायता के माध्यम से प्राकृतिक संसाधनों के संरक्षण में अपनी भूमिका निभाने का अवसर मिलता है। वे स्वयं उदाहरण प्रस्तुत करके और अपने समुदाय को प्रेरित करके सामाजिक संसाधनों की सुरक्षा में योगदान कर सकते हैं।

प्राकृतिक संसाधनों की सुरक्षा में व्यक्तियों की भूमिका अत्यधिक महत्वपूर्ण है। उनके योगदान से ही हम समृद्धि, सामर्थ्य, और स्थिरता के साथ प्राकृतिक संसाधनों का संरक्षण कर सकते हैं।