Environment and Ecology: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Prelims)
259 previous year UPSC Prelims Environment and Ecology questions are on this page, from 1996 to 2025, in 10 chapters. Species, Pollution, Environmental Laws and Conventions and Climate Change are the largest, and recent papers lean on statement-pairs about news items: Direct Air Capture, the Nature Restoration Law, PFAS and the Peacock tarantula. Filter by chapter to revise one area, or by year for a single paper.
Explanations state facts as of the year each question was asked; words like “recently” refer to that year.
Showing 171–180 of 259 questions
Browse Environment and Ecology chaptersBrowse by year
UPSC 2015Environment and Ecology · Species
Q171. Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
Explanation
The Gangetic Dolphin (Platanista gangeticus) is India’s National Aquatic Animal. It is native to the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems, which span Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. Endemic to the Indian subcontinent, the Gangetic dolphin belongs to the Platanistidae family and is one of only four freshwater dolphin species globally. Recognized by its triangular dorsal fin and long, slender beak, this stocky, gray or brown dolphin can grow up to 2.5 meters. Adapted to murky freshwater environments, it uses echolocation to navigate and is locally known as ‘susu.’
UPSC 2015Environment and Ecology · Miscellaneous
Q172. With reference to Forest Carbon Partnership Facility, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. It is a global partnership of governments, businesses, civil society and indigenous peoples. 2. It provides financial aid to universities, individual scientists and institutions involved in scientific forestry research to develop eco-friendly and climate adaptation technologies for sustainable forest management. 3. It assists the countries in their ’REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation+)’ efforts by providing them with financial and technical assistance. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: The Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) is a global partnership that includes governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and indigenous peoples. It was established to support efforts to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+).
Statement 2 is incorrect: The FCPF does not provide financial aid to universities, individual scientists, or institutions for scientific forestry research. Instead, it focuses on providing financial and technical assistance to countries for REDD+ readiness and implementation. The FCPF supports REDD+ efforts through two separate but complementary funds-The FCPF Readiness Fund and The FCPF Carbon Fund.
Statement 3 is correct: The FCPF assists countries in their REDD+ efforts by providing financial and technical assistance. This includes helping countries prepare for REDD+ implementation, develop national strategies, and build capacity for monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) of forest carbon emissions.
UPSC 2015Environment and Ecology · Miscellaneous
Q173. BioCarbon Fund Initiative for Sustainable Forest Landscapes’ is managed by the:
Explanation
The BioCarbon Fund Initiative for Sustainable Forest Landscapes (ISFL) is managed by the World Bank. This initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries, promoting sustainable land-use practices. It seeks to promote reduced greenhouse gas emissions from the land sector, from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD+), and from sustainable agriculture, as well as smarter land-use planning, policies and practices.
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Pollution
Q174. Which of the following are some important pollutants released by the steel industry in India? 1. Oxides of sulphur 2. Oxide of nitrogen 3. Carbon monoxide 4. Carbon dioxide Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
India is second largest crude steel producer in the world. The steel industry is highly resource and energy-inten-sive, as well as significantly polluting. For instance, India’s current average emission intensity is 2.55 tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of crude steel, while the global average is around 1.95 tonnes. Emissions from the steel sector have decreased by 15% from 2005 to 2022, and the government aims for an additional 10% reduction by 2030. The major environmental impacts of integrated steel mills are from coking and iron-making. Coke production is one of the major pollution sources from steel production. Air emissions such as coke oven gas, naphthalene, ammonium compounds, crude light oil, sulfur and coke dust are released from coke ovens. Steel production has a number of impacts on the environment, including air emissions (CO₂, CO SOx, NOx, PM2.5), wastewater contaminants, hazardous wastes, and solid wastes.
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Pollution
Q175. There is some concern regarding the nanoparticles of some chemical elements that are used by the industry in the manufacture of various products. Why? 1. They can accumulate in the environment and contaminate water and soil. 2. They can enter the food chains. 3. They can trigger the production of free radicals. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
Nanoparticles are used in the manufacture of scratch proof eyeglasses, crack-resistant paints, anti-graffiti coatings for walls, transparent sunscreens, stain-repellent fabrics, and self-cleaning windows, and ceramic coatings for solar cells. Additionally, stronger, lighter, cleaner, and more intelligent surfaces and systems can be created with nanoparticles.
Statement 1 is correct: A matter particle with dimension ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers is referred to as nanoparticle. Nanoparticles can accumulate in the environment and contaminate water and soil.
Statement 2 is correct: Nanoparticles can also enter the food chain and cross cell membranes.
Statement 3 is correct: Nanoparticles can trigger free radicals and may damage cells in organs like the liver, heart, or blood.
Additional insight:
Health Implications Of Nanoparticles:
Nanoparticles enhance drug delivery and target-specific treatment. However, some nanoparticles may reduce a drug’s efficacy or introduce toxicity risks to non-target orgAns:
Nanoparticles can accumulate in the liver and spleen, potentially altering liver function and triggering inflammatory responses. Certain nanoparticles can trigger immune responses, leading to inflammation or allergic reactions. Some act as allergens or induce antibody formation, affecting overall immune function. Negatively charged nanoparticles can penetrate the skin, increasing concerns over cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. Ingested nanoparticles may accumulate in the gastrointestinal tract, impacting gut health and metabolism. Nanoparticles can induce oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage and potential links to cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. This can weaken the body’s antioxidant defences, causing long-term health risks.
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Pollution
Q176. Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use? 1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment. 2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs) are mixtures of man-made chemicals that are added to a wide variety of products, including for industrial use, to make them less flammable. They are used commonly in plastics, textiles and electrical/electronic equipment. Statements 1 is correct: Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs)don’t degrade easily in fact they are highly resistant to degradation in the environment. Statements 2 is correct: Some brominated flame retardants were identified as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic to both humans and the environment and were suspected of causing neurobehavioral effects and endocrine disruption.
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Climate Change
Q177. The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2°C above the pre-industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 3°C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on the world? 1. The terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source. 2. Widespread coral mortality will occur. 3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear. 4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in the world. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: If the global temperature increases beyond 3 “C above the pre-industrial level, the terrestrial biosphere will tend towards being a net carbon source. Taiga and temperate forests act as an important carbon sink that would turn into a carbon source.
Statement 2 is correct: As temperatures rise, mass coral bleaching events occur. If the temperature keeps on rising, widespread coral mortality will occur.
Statement 3 and 4 are incorrect: The temperate regions can still survive if the temperature increases. The temperate zones are where the widest seasonal changes occur. The vegetation can survive there. The weather should be warm and moist during the early stage of the growth of cereals. Therefore, the cultivation of cereals would still be possible if the temperature rises.
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Environmental Laws, Conventions and Policies
Q178. What are the significances of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as ‘Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative’? 1. Seed cost is very low in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation. 2. Drip irrigation can be practised very effectively in this. 3. There is no application of chemical/inorganic fertilizers at all in this. 4. The scope for intercropping is more in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
The Sustainable Sugar Initiative (SSI) was launched jointly by International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). SSI aims at cultivating sugarcane mainly by changing the way the inputs and methods are used, such as less use of seeds, less use of water, optimum utilization of fertilizers and land, aims at reducing the input cost.
Statement 1 is correct: The Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI) is an innovative set of agronomic practices that involves using less seeds, raising seeds in a nursery, and following new planting methods. Statements 2 and 4 are correct: SSI provides ample scope for intercropping and the drip irrigation method as it incorporates wider seed spacing and better water and nutrient management to increase the cane yields significantly.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Application of both inorganic and organic fertilizers such as Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (NPK) fertilizers are part of Sustainable Sugar Initiative (SSI).
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Environmental Laws, Conventions and Policies
Q179. Consider the following international agreements: 1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. 2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. 3. The World Heritage Convention Which of the above has/have a bearing on biodiversity?
Explanation
Option 1 is correct: The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, also known as the Seed Treaty, was adopted during the 31st session of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2001. India is a signatory to this treaty, which directly impacts biodiversity, as seeds are crucial for the conservation of plant genetic resources.
Option 2 is correct: United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) was established in 1994. It is the sole legally binding international agreement linking environment and development to sustainable land management. Habitat loss to meet our demand for food, raw materials or buildings is the leading cause of species extinction. Conserving, restoring, and sustainably managing habitats and ecosystems is recognized as the most effective way to protect biodiversity. One powerful example is the Great Green Wall. The Wall is an African-led initiative to restore biodiversity.
Option 3 is correct: World Heritage Convention (1972) of UNESCO is concerned with the protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. It acknowledges how people interact with nature and the critical necessity to maintain their delicate equilibrium. World Heritage properties/sites are some of the most outstanding places on the planet and constitute a significant subset of the protected area system, critical for conservation of ecosystem integrity and biodiversity.
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Environmental Laws, Conventions and Policies
Q180. Consider the following statements regarding ‘Earth Hour’ 1. It is an initiative of UNEP and UNESCO. 2. It is a movement in which the participants switch off the lights for one hour on a certain day every year. 3. It is a movement to raise awareness about climate change and the need to save the planet. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect: Earth Hour is a global movement for environmental conservation, started by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in 2007.
Statement 2 is correct: It is an annual event that takes place on the last Saturday of March. Millions of people in over 180 countries and territories participate in it by turning off their lights for 1 hour.
Statement 3 is correct: It showcases the urgent need to take action on the pressing issue of climate change. Further, it promotes awareness about environmental issues on a public platform.
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
171
2015
(c) Gangetic dolphin
172
2015
(c) 1 and 3 only
173
2015
(d) World Bank
174
2014
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
175
2014
(d) 1, 2 and 3
176
2014
(c) Both 1 and 2
177
2014
(b) 1 and 2 only
178
2014
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
179
2014
(d) 1, 2 and 3
180
2014
(c) 2 and 3 only
What UPSC has tested in Environment and Ecology
Species questions ask for classification and habitat: which is an insect, a filter feeder, or not a bird, and where an animal is found.
Law and convention questions ask which body or instrument covers what, such as the Wildlife Protection Act’s schedules, the e-Waste Rules and the Ramsar Convention.
Climate questions in 2025 covered Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, COP28, Direct Air Capture and wet-bulb temperatures.
Protected-area questions combine locations with distinctive features, such as the swamp park of Keibul Lamjao and Critical Tiger Habitats.
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on Environment and Ecology?
This page covers 259 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on Environment and Ecology, asked from 1996 to 2025. Each has the correct answer and an explanation.
Which Environment chapters have the most questions?
Species has the most with 43 questions, followed by Pollution and Environmental Laws, Conventions and Policies with 39 each, and Climate Change with 30. Environmental Organisations and Miscellaneous are the smallest.
How can I revise Environment and Ecology using these questions?
Take a chapter at a time with the Chapter filter, attempt the questions and read the facts UPSC has tested. Revise Species and Protected Areas with a map and a list of national parks at hand.
Are the 2025 Environment questions included?
Yes. The 2025 paper’s Environment questions on activated carbon, cement emissions, COP28, Article 6, Direct Air Capture, the Gooty tarantula, plastics and the Nature Restoration Law are included with full explanations.
