Environment – Current Affairs – May 2016

Environment and Forests Union Ministry initiated a web-based application process on IWMS (Integrated Waste Management System)

On 9^th May 2016, the Environment and Forests Union Ministry initiated a web-based application process on IWMS (Integrated Waste Management System). The web address of the system is . The objective of launching this system is for better waste management. This is a user-friendly application and is effective in tracking the hazardous waste movement. This new system will enhance the transparency in working methods of the Ministry as well as other State or Central regulatory bodies. This system will also reduce the overall time taken in processing applications and seeking different permissions as per the regulations of waste management. This online system will also promote the implementation of the concept of green/paperless office.

To promote eco-tourism, bicycle highway approved between lion safari and Taj by UP Government

On 11^th May 2016, the government of Uttar Pradesh approved development of a bicycle highway that will be almost 200 km long. The highway will take off from Agra and will reach Etawah’s Lion Safari. The objective of this initiative is to promote eco-tourism across the surroundings of Taj Mahal. Akhilesh Yadav, Chief Minister of UP approved this highway project during a cabinet conference. The pathway of this highway will be covering significant tourism and historical centers across the state. Some of the significant stops will be ‘Naugava ka Quila’, ‘Mela Kothi Jarar’ and Bateshwarnath Temple

UNEP released report: Actions on Air Quality

On 24^th May 2016, the UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) released a report titled ‘Actions on Air Quality’. During the 2^nd UNEA discussions, the members released the report. The report discusses decreased quality of air across the globe and the need for urgency from political fraternities towards tackling this global health emergency phenomenon. As per the WHO (World Health Organization) report, levels of air pollution across the globe have increased by almost 8 percent from 2008 to 2013. While there is scope for improvement among various areas, the actions taken by governments is still not impressive.