Environment and Ecology Important Topics for UPSC Prelims 2025
Deeksha Dixit7 May, 2025
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Environment and Ecology Important Topics for UPSC Prelims 2025 are a useful tool that can help in scoring well in this section. Every year, around 15 to 20 questions are asked from the Environment and Ecology syllabus. Due to current global environmental issues, UPSC gives significant weightage to this topic. Therefore, focus on revising the Environment and Ecology Important Topics in the last months for a better score.
Environment and Ecology Important Topics for UPSC Prelims 2025
Many aspirants find Environment and Ecology tough because the syllabus is vast. But with the right approach and focus on Environment and Ecology Important Topics for UPSC Prelims 2025, you can score well. These topics not only help in prelims but also build a strong base for mains and interviews. Here is the list of Environment and Ecology Important Topics for UPSC Prelims 2025:
| Theme | Topics |
| Basic Concepts of Ecology | Environment, Ecology, Ecosystem, Ecotone, Ecological Niche, Biotic and Abiotic components |
| Ecosystem Dynamics | Types of ecosystems (terrestrial, aquatic), Food chains and food webs, Energy flow, Ecological pyramids, Nutrient cycles (Carbon, Nitrogen, Hydrological) |
| Biodiversity | Types of biodiversity (genetic, species, ecosystem), Biodiversity hotspots in India, Endangered and endemic species, Conservation methods (in-situ and ex-situ), Protected areas (National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves), Key species |
| Climate Change | Causes and effects of climate change, Global warming, Greenhouse gases, Mitigation and adaptation strategies, International agreements (Paris Agreement, Kyoto Protocol, IPCC reports), National initiatives |
| Environmental Pollution | Types of pollution (air, water, soil, noise), Sources and impacts, Control measures, National pollution control boards and programs |
| Environmental Degradation | Deforestation, Land degradation, Desertification, Soil erosion, Causes and socio-economic impacts |
| Conservation Efforts | Wildlife protection projects (Project Tiger, Project Elephant), Community reserves, Biosphere reserves, Ramsar sites, Government schemes |
| Environmental Laws & Policies | Environment Protection Act, Forest Conservation Act, Wildlife Protection Act, National Green Tribunal, International conventions (CBD, CITES, Ramsar Convention) |
| Sustainable Development | Concepts and principles, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Role of stakeholders, Renewable energy sources |
| Environmental Movements | Important Indian and global environmental movements, Campaigns, Leadership and outcomes |
| Current Affairs & Reports | Recent government initiatives, National and international environmental reports, Conferences (COP summits), Emerging environmental issues |
| Disaster Management | Types of disasters (natural and man-made), Disaster preparedness, Role of NDMA and other agencies |
| Important Organisations | National (NTCA, CPCB, NGT, WCCB, NBA, BNHS), International (UNEP, IPCC, IUCN, WWF) |
Environment and Ecology Questions in UPSC Prelims
UPSC Prelims includes Environment and Ecology questions that are both factual and conceptual. Most questions are based on current environmental issues and related government schemes. A good mix of static and dynamic topics is seen every year in the Environment and Ecology PYQ. Here is a year wise Environment and Ecology PYQs:
How to Prepare Environment and Ecology Important Topics for Prelims?
Environment and Ecology need a smart and selective approach. Since the subject is vast, it’s important to focus on the most repeated themes. Make a topic-wise list of frequently asked areas. Then prepare using NCERTs, government reports, and current affairs. Here’s how to prepare Environment and Ecology Important Topics for UPSC Prelims 2025:
- Use Standard Study Material: Read Class 6–12 Science books, followed by PW ONLYIAS UPSC Wallah Environment book. Focus on chapters related to food chains, ecosystems, and pollution.
- Follow Ministry Websites: Refer to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) website and UNEP, IUCN, and IPCC portals for the latest updates. Read annual reports like the India State of Forest Report (ISFR)
- Cover Static Topics: While studying, focus on fundamental topics more, such as Ecosystem and its functions, Biodiversity levels and threats, Protected area networks in India, Pollution types and control methods, Environmental Acts and governance, etc.
- Make Notes: Make a separate notebook for species, locations, and summits in the news. Use mind maps & flashcards for topics like treaties, species, and conservation efforts. It will help in retaining facts and quick revision.
- Revise with PYQs: Solve the last 10 years’ UPSC Prelims Previous Year Question papers. Identify repeated topics and types of questions.
Scoring well in Environment and Ecology is easy with the right plan. Focus on important topics, link static concepts with current affairs, and revise regularly. This approach will help you answer confidently in Prelims 2025.
Want guidance on Environment and Ecology for UPSC 2025? Join PW’s UPSC Online Courses today!
Environment and Ecology for UPSC Prelims 2025 FAQ
What are the environment topics for UPSC Prelims?
What is the weightage of Environment and Ecology in UPSC Prelims?
How to prepare Environment and Ecology for UPSC Prelims?
Should I focus more on static or current topics for Environment and Ecology?
Are international treaties and summits important for UPSC Prelims?
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