Q. Define the concept of carrying capacity of an ecosystem as relevant to an environment. Explain how understanding this concept is vital while planning for the sustainable development of a region. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2019
Keywords of the Question
- Carrying capacity
- Ecosystem
- Planning
- Sustainable development
Directive Word
Define – Clearly outline the exact meaning of the term or concept. Ensure your definition is straightforward and easy to understand. If the term has multiple interpretations, briefly mention them. To clarify the definition, you can include relevant examples.
Explain – Clarify a topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurs, or what is meant by the use of this term in a particular context. Your writing should have clarity so that complex procedures or sequences of events can be understood; defining key terms where appropriate, and be substantiated with relevant research.
How to approach this Question?
Introduction
- Briefly define the concept of carrying capacity of an ecosystem.
- Mention its relevance to environmental sustainability.
Body
- Explanation of Carrying Capacity:
- Describe the factors that determine the carrying capacity of an ecosystem.
- Discuss the implications of exceeding the carrying capacity.
- Importance in Sustainable Development:
- Explain how understanding carrying capacity aids in resource management.
- Highlight its role in urban planning and regional development.
- Discuss examples of sustainable practices influenced by carrying capacity.
Conclusion
- Summarize the key points.
- Emphasize the necessity of integrating carrying capacity into planning for sustainable development.
- Suggest future directions or policies for maintaining ecological balance.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
Definition: The carrying capacity of an ecosystem refers to the maximum population size of a species that an environment can sustain indefinitely without degrading the environment. This concept encompasses the availability of resources such as food, water, and shelter, and the ability of the environment to absorb waste products. When the population exceeds this limit, the ecosystem may suffer from resource depletion, habitat destruction, and a decline in the quality of life for the species.
Body
Relevance to Sustainable Development:
Understanding the carrying capacity is crucial for sustainable development, which aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
- Resource Management:
- Water and Food Supply: Ensuring that the extraction of resources like water and food does not exceed the rate of their natural replenishment.
- Waste Assimilation: Managing waste so that it does not exceed the environment’s capacity to assimilate it without harmful effects.
- Urban Planning:
- Infrastructure Development: Designing cities and infrastructure that do not overburden local ecosystems. For example, limiting urban sprawl to preserve green spaces and biodiversity.
- Population Control: Implementing policies to control population growth in line with the carrying capacity to avoid overexploitation of resources.
- Environmental Protection:
- Biodiversity Conservation: Protecting habitats to maintain biodiversity, which is essential for ecosystem resilience and stability.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Reducing carbon footprints and implementing sustainable practices to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Example: Consider the city of Bangalore, India, which has experienced rapid urbanization. The city’s water bodies have been significantly depleted due to over-extraction, and waste management has become a critical issue. By understanding and respecting the carrying capacity, urban planners can develop strategies to ensure sustainable water use, efficient waste management, and the preservation of green spaces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, integrating the concept of carrying capacity into regional planning ensures that development is sustainable, resources are used efficiently, and the environment is protected for future generations.
Mind Map
