UPSC Prelims 2014 Q78: Environment & Ecology – International Environmental Treaties & Summits
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 the biodiversity?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
International agreements with a bearing on biodiversity
| Agreement | Bearing on biodiversity? | How |
|---|---|---|
| 1. International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture | Yes | Conserves crop diversity; farmers' rights; sharing of benefits |
| 2. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification | Yes | Stops land degradation, which destroys dryland species |
| 3. World Heritage Convention | Yes | Protects natural sites such as Kaziranga, the Western Ghats and the Sundarbans |
The agreements:
| Agreement | Year | Body |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Genetic Resources Treaty | Adopted 2001 | FAO |
| UNCCD | 1994 | A Rio Convention |
| World Heritage Convention | 1972 | UNESCO |
Other biodiversity-related treaties: CBD, CITES, Ramsar Convention, Convention on Migratory Species.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The World Heritage Convention also protects natural sites rich in species.
- (b) Incorrect. The plant genetic resources treaty and UNCCD also matter for biodiversity.
- (c) Incorrect. UNCCD also has a bearing, through land and habitat protection.
- (d) CORRECT. All three agreements have a bearing on biodiversity.
Key point
Biodiversity-related treaties: CBD, CITES, Ramsar, CMS, World Heritage Convention (1972), Plant Genetic Resources Treaty (FAO, 2001), UNCCD (1994).
Remember
All three treaties touch biodiversity.
Common mistakes
- Thinking the World Heritage Convention covers only monuments.
- Seeing UNCCD as a land treaty with no link to species.
- Not knowing the FAO plant treaty.
Exam tip
'Has a bearing on' is a broad phrase. Most environmental treaties qualify.
Sources
- Convention on Biological Diversity — Biodiversity-related conventions
- Food and Agriculture Organization — International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture