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.
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) |
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:
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:
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.
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