The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role Important Short and Long Question Class 11 Chapter-4 Book-1
Team Eklavya
मार्च 03, 2025
1. What is the Green Movement and when did it begin?
Answer:
The Green Movement began in 1972 with the founding of the first Green Party in New Zealand.
It has gained global momentum, promoting environmental awareness and sustainable development.
2. How has the Green Movement changed human perception?
Answer:
It shifted human perspective from a mechanistic view to a holistic, ecological understanding.
The Earth is now seen as a living organism with vital processes that must be preserved.
3. What is sustainable development and why is it important?
Answer:
Sustainable development was popularized in 1987 and means meeting present needs without compromising future generations’ needs.
It ensures that natural resources are used responsibly to protect the planet’s health and biodiversity.
4. What message does the sign in Lusaka, Zambia’s zoo convey?
Answer:
The sign states that humans are the most dangerous animal, warning about the destruction humans cause to nature.
It highlights the need for a shift from dominance to partnership with the Earth.
5. What concerns were raised by the Brandt Commission?
Answer:
The Brandt Commission questioned whether humanity is leaving a deteriorating planet for future generations.
It emphasized the urgent need to address environmental issues.
6. How is biodiversity being affected by human activities?
Answer:
- The Earth has about 1.4 million cataloged species, with many more undiscovered.
- Deforestation, habitat destruction, and pollution are causing mass extinction of species.
- The loss of biodiversity disrupts ecosystems and ecological balance.
7. What are the primary biological systems of the Earth?
Answer:
The four primary biological systems of the Earth are:
These are being overused and exploited, leading to severe environmental damage.
8. How is deforestation affecting India?
Answer:
Despite environmental protection laws, forests in India are being destroyed at an alarming rate.
The estimated forest loss is 3.7 million acres annually.
This destruction has serious ecological consequences, such as loss of biodiversity and climate change.
9. How has the world’s population growth impacted the environment?
Answer:
The world’s population has increased from 1 billion (1800) to 5.7 billion today.
Around 1 million people are added every four days.
Overpopulation leads to resource depletion, pollution, and environmental degradation.
10. What solutions can help control population growth?
Answer:
Higher incomes, better education, and improved healthcare can help reduce fertility rates.
Voluntary family planning and sustainable development are key solutions.
Managing population growth is essential to reduce environmental strain.
11. What is the "Era of Responsibility"?
Answer:
The Era of Responsibility is a shift towards a more sustainable and ethical approach to the environment.
It emphasizes the role of individuals, industries, and governments in preserving the Earth for future generations.
12. How can industries contribute to environmental conservation?
Answer:
Industries must adopt sustainable practices and reduce pollution and waste.
Edgar S. Woolard, chairman of Du Pont, stressed that excelling in environmental performance is key to business success.
Companies must see environmental protection as a responsibility rather than a burden.
13. What was Margaret Thatcher’s view on environmental responsibility?
Answer:
She said no generation has a permanent claim on the Earth.
Humans are caretakers of the planet and must preserve it for future generations.
14. What is the significance of Lester Brown’s statement on the Earth?
Answer:
He emphasized that humans have borrowed the Earth from future generations.
This means we must protect and restore the planet rather than exploit it irresponsibly.
15. What are the key themes of "The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role"?
Answer:
1. Environmental Responsibility – Humans must protect the Earth for future generations.
2. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Loss – Human activities are destroying ecosystems and driving species to extinction.
3. Population Growth and Development – Unchecked population growth worsens environmental problems.
4. Era of Responsibility – The Green Movement promotes a sustainable relationship between humans and nature.
