ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 2(a) Greening and Browning of the Himalayas and the Arctic

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 2(a) Greening and Browning of the Himalayas and the Arctic. Detailed answer discussing the causes, implications, and environmental significance of these changing ecological trends.

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 2(a) Greening and Browning of the Himalayas and the Arctic

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question

Q.2(a) What do you understand by the terms "Greening" and "Browning" of the Himalayas and the Arctic? Explain their causes and implications.

Answer :

Greening refers to an increase in vegetation cover, plant growth, and biological productivity in a region. Browning, on the other hand, refers to a decline in vegetation health, reduced plant productivity, and ecosystem degradation.

Greening of the Himalayas and the Arctic

Greening occurs due to:

• Rising temperatures that extend the growing season.

• Increased carbon dioxide concentrations enhancing plant growth.

• Expansion of shrubs and vegetation into previously barren areas.

• Glacier retreat exposing new land suitable for vegetation.

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In the Arctic, warmer temperatures have encouraged the growth of tundra vegetation and shrubs. In some Himalayan regions, higher temperatures and changing precipitation patterns have contributed to increased vegetation cover.

Browning of the Himalayas and the Arctic

Browning occurs due to:

• Extreme heat events and droughts.

• Forest degradation and biodiversity loss.

• Increased frequency of wildfires.

• Pest infestations and environmental stress.

• Unsustainable human activities such as deforestation and land-use change.

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In both regions, some ecosystems experience vegetation decline despite overall warming trends.

Implications

Greening may initially enhance carbon absorption and ecosystem productivity. However, it can also alter biodiversity patterns and ecological balance.

Browning can reduce ecosystem resilience, increase soil erosion, accelerate biodiversity loss, and weaken natural carbon sinks. These changes may further intensify climate change impacts.

Thus, greening and browning are complex environmental processes reflecting the broader consequences of global climate change.

Conclusion

The greening and browning of the Himalayas and the Arctic demonstrate the dynamic effects of climate change on fragile ecosystems. Understanding these trends is essential for biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable environmental management.