Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
5. Analyse the impact of invasive alien species on biodiversity and ecosystems. Assess the need for international cooperation and policy measures to mitigate the threats posed by invasive species. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Down to Earth
Why the question:
The article discusses the issue of invasive alien species, which was a focal point during the 10th plenary of IPBES.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the factors aiding invasive alien species, their impact and ways to tackle their spread.
Directive word:
Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by explaining the term invasive alien species.
Body:
First, write about the factors that ensure that to Invasive alien species survive in non-native areas.
Next, Explain the various threats posed by them. Provide examples and present the scenario of harm posed by invasive species in India – threaten cultivable land and wildlife habitats alike, may lead to the conversion of marshy wetlands into dry land. E.g.: water hyacinth, spread into the forests through the corridors created by landslides, affect the soil and destroy the microhabitat of that area
Next, write about the steps that are needed to tackle their spread.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
