Environment Audit Rules, 2025

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The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has notified the Environment Audit Rules, 2025 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, to establish a comprehensive framework for environmental accountability across India.

Certification and Registration of Environmental Auditors: Environment Auditors (EAs) are to be Certified and Registered by the MoEFCC-notified Environment Audit Designated Agency (EADA). EADA is responsible for:
- Certification, registration, and oversight of auditors.
- Monitoring performance and providing training.
- Taking disciplinary action when required.
Registered Environment Auditors (REAs): Audits will be conducted by Registered Environment Auditors (REAs).
- REAs will be assigned projects randomly to ensure impartiality.
- REAs will undertake activities including sampling, analysis, compensation calculation, and audits under various environmental and forest-related legislations.
Two-Tiered System of Compliance:
- Tier-1: Government regulators (CPCB, SPCBs, MoEFCC regional offices) will review compliance.
- Tier-2: Audits will be conducted by REAs for third-party verification.
Oversight and Monitoring: A Steering Committee, led by an Additional Secretary from MoEFCC, will oversee the implementation of these rules.

Q1. Which of the following can be threats to the biodiversity of a geographical area? (2012)

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Ans: (a)

Q2. Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in the following ways: (2011)

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Ans: (d)

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