Q.Explain the need for environmental preservation.

We must preserve the environment because it supplies resources and life-support for the economy and survival; because pollution and depletion threaten health and growth; to keep ecological balance and biodiversity; to secure resources for future generations; and to check global warming and climate change.

This 5-mark question in AP Intermediate 2nd year Economics is part of the environment and sustainable development theme, treated in line with the NCERT/CBSE curriculum.

Need for environmental preservation:

1. Source of resources. The environment supplies land, water, minerals, forests and energy that are the raw materials of all economic activity; preserving it keeps these resources available.

2. Life-support functions. Clean air, water and a stable climate are essential for human health and survival and must be protected.

3. Control of pollution and degradation. Rapid industrialisation, urbanisation and population growth have caused serious air, water and soil pollution that harm health and productivity; preservation checks this damage.

4. Ecological balance and biodiversity. Preserving forests, wildlife and ecosystems maintains the natural balance on which agriculture, climate and life depend.

5. Sustainable development. Conserving resources today ensures that future generations also have enough to meet their needs.

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