The activities of man had adverse effects on all forms of living organisms in the biosphere. Unlimited exploitation of nature by man disturbed the delicate ecological balance between the living and non-living components of the biosphere. The unfavourable conditions created by man himself threatened the survival not only of himself but also of the entire living organisms on the mother earth. One of your classmates is an active member of 'Eco club' of your school which is creating environmental awareness amongst the school students, spreading the same in the society and also working hard for preventing environmental degradation of the surroundings. (a) Why is it necessary to conserve our environment? (b) State the importance of green and blue dust-bins in the safe disposal of the household waste. (c) List two values exhibited by your classmate who is an active member of Eco-club of your school.

(a) Necessity of Conserving Our Environment

It is necessary to conserve our environment for the following reasons:

1. Interdependence and Ecological Balance: All biotic components (plants, animals, microorganisms) and abiotic components (soil, water, temperature) interact to maintain a balance in nature. Disrupting one part (e.g., through pollution or deforestation) destabilizes the entire ecosystem.
2. Prevention of Waste Accumulation and Toxicity: Human activities generate non-biodegradable wastes (like plastics) and toxic chemicals (like pesticides) that persist in nature. These chemicals undergo biological magnification, accumulating at maximum concentrations in human bodies at the top of the food chain, causing severe health hazards.
3. Protection of Vital Shields: Synthetic chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons ($CFCs$) deplete the ozone ($O_3$) layer in the stratosphere, which shields us from harmful ultraviolet ($UV$) radiation that causes skin cancer and damages other organisms.

(b) Importance of Green and Blue Dust-bins

• Green Dust-bins (for Biodegradable Waste): Used to collect organic kitchen wastes, spoilt food, vegetable peels, and paper. These substances can be broken down by decomposers (bacteria and fungi) into simple inorganic substances. This allows for natural replenishment of the soil through composting.
• Blue Dust-bins (for Non-Biodegradable Waste): Used to collect materials like plastics, metals, glass, and synthetic materials. Since these materials cannot be broken down by biological enzymes and persist in the environment for a long time, separating them ensures they can be sent for recycling or safe industrial disposal, preventing them from polluting ecosystems or harming wildlife.

(c) Values Exhibited by the Classmate

1. Environmental Consciousness and Responsibility: Demonstrates a deep awareness of ecological issues and a proactive attitude towards protecting the biosphere.
2. Leadership and Social Citizenship: Shows the initiative to educate others, spread awareness, and work collectively for the betterment of society and the local environment.