Class 12 Political Science - KERALA
Environment and Natural Resources
The chapter 'Environment and Natural Resources' in Class 12 Political Science (Kerala SCERT syllabus) explores the growing significance of environmental issues in global politics. It examines how global environmental degradation, climate change, and resource scarcity have led to international cooperation and conflict. Students will learn about key global summits like the Rio Earth Summit, the concept of sustainable development, common property resources, indigenous rights, and India's specific stance on global environmental politics. This chapter is vital for board exams as it tests both conceptual understanding of global commons and factual knowledge of international environmental treaties.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Global Commons
Resource areas outside sovereign jurisdiction that require common governance by the international community, such as Antarctica, the ocean floor, outer space, and the Earth's atmosphere.
Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR)
A principle from the 1992 Rio Earth Summit stating that all countries must protect the environment, but developed countries bear a greater responsibility because they have caused more historical pollution.
Sustainable Development
Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, balancing economic growth with ecological preservation.
Indigenous Peoples and Rights
Communities who lived in a region before its colonization or conquest, whose identity and livelihoods are closely tied to natural ecosystems and are often threatened by resource exploitation.
Rio Earth Summit (1992)
The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro, which institutionalized the link between economic development and environmental protection globally.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Kerala SCERT Class 12 Political Science board exams, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions usually include objective-type multiple-choice questions, short answers on environmental summits (like Rio and Kyoto), and essay-type questions explaining the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) or India's environmental policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of the Kyoto Protocol?
The Kyoto Protocol (1997) aimed to set binding emission reduction targets for industrialized countries to curb global warming and greenhouse gas emissions.
Why do developing countries emphasize Common But Differentiated Responsibilities?
Developing nations argue that developed countries consumed more resources and caused historical pollution during their industrialization, hence they must take greater financial and technological responsibility.
What are 'Global Commons'? Give examples.
Global commons are resource zones outside national jurisdiction that belong to the entire world. Examples include the Earth's atmosphere, Antarctica, ocean floors, and outer space.
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