eChapters

Objective
After performing this experiment, you will be able to learn
Sorting of given samples by selective dissolution technique.
Introduction
Sorting process is the process of separating the mingled and mixed plastic before the recycling process. 

Selective Dissolution Technique (SDP)

Recycling of plastic has become the major focus nowadays. Sorting of plastic materials is the major step towards recycling. One of the sorting techniques is selective dissolution although it has not found major usage in industry for various drawbacks. This technique uses the solubility parameter of different polymers for segregation purpose. Each polymer owing to its chemical structure has different solubility parameters. Hence, the solvents for each and every polymer are different. This difference in solubility in different solvents is used here for separating them from one another.

Recycling of plastic has become the major focus nowadays. Sorting of plastic materials is the major step towards recycling. One of the sorting techniques is selective dissolution although it has not found major usage in industry for various drawbacks. This technique uses the solubility parameter of different polymers for segregation purpose. Each polymer owing to its chemical structure has different solubility parameters. Hence, the solvents for each and every polymer are different. This difference in solubility in different solvents is used here for separating them from one another.

Objective

After performing this experiment, you will be able to learn

Sorting of samples by sink-floatation technique.

Introduction

Sink float is the simplest and cheapest method among all the wet sorting techniques in which polymers are separated based on their density. This technique is extremely fast, environment friendly and cost effective process for sorting of plastics. Since, the separations are done based on density, so any factor which may change the density of the pure polymer like blending, composite formation of multilayer structures etc. will not be separated well using this method. Moreover, if any two polymers are very close in density, they cannot be separated easily. That is why PVC and PET which are very close in their density can not be separated using sink floatation method.

Initially the plastic waste is added to the container containing water and the system is gently stirred to evenly wet the surface of plastic and remove any air trapped on the surface. Since the density of polyolefins is near/close to each other but lighter than water, they all float in water whereas the heavier plastics sink. This technique is primarily used to separate polyolefins from other plastics. Now to further segregate the polyolefinic fraction, this method is extended by adding the polyolefin mixture to another container containing water and alcohol. As dropwise more and more alcohol are added to the water, the density of the medium will decrease and the polyolefins start separating. For separating the heavier fraction of the polymer, the mixture of polymers is added to water. To this water, dropwise salt water is added and stirred. Salt water increases the density of the medium slowly and at one point, the polymers which were sinking in water, will start floating depending on their density.

Objective

After performing this experiment, you will be able to learn:

Water vapour transmission rate of packaging material

Introduction

Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR), also known as Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR), measures the rate at which water vapor passes through a material. MVTR is crucial in various industries where moisture control is vital. For example, moisture-sensitive foods and pharmaceuticals are packaged using materials with controlled MVTR to ensure quality, safety, and shelf life. In the textile industry, MVTR serves as a measure of breathability, enhancing comfort for outdoor clothing. In the building materials industry, managing moisture barrier properties in architectural components helps maintain appropriate moisture levels in the internal spaces of buildings. Various techniques are used to measure MVTR, ranging from gravimetric methods that assess moisture gain or loss by mass to advanced instrumental techniques capable of measuring extremely low transmission rates. It's important to note that special care must be taken when measuring porous substances like fabrics, as some techniques may not be suitable.

Objective

After performing this experiment, you will be able to learn

Sampling methods and procedures of packaging material.

Introduction

The objective of sampling of a packaging material is to obtain a representative sample of a whole lot for the required testing and/or grading. It is expected that the test results and grading will reflect the average quality of the PM from which the sample was taken.

Principle

The sample techniques and processes outlined in this publication are grounded upon scientific principles. Since the validity of any later test result depends on the quality of the sampling and the information given with the sample, the sampler is essential to the process of selecting lots for testing and/or grading.

Every PM in the population being sampled has an equal chance of being selected, according to the random sampling principle. Usually, the sample size that is tested is very small in relation to the size of the lot that it represents. The sample must be taken carefully and in a way that gives assurance that it is genuinely representative of the lot. Similarly, in order to reduce the composite sample, all necessary.

Introduction

As a new decade begins, the effects of climate change are being felt all around the world. Storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires are examples of events that may already be linked to climate change and that are expected to occur more frequently and intensely as well as the destruction they inflict virtually every day. The state of the world’s climate is a serious issue that requires attention. In order to create a future that is more environmentally friendly, addressing this issue is urgently required, and everyone must take this into consideration as their shared goal. Since technology is increasingly being seen as a part of the outcome.

To this end, the strengthening of national innovation systems and ensuring that people have access to effective IPPI management programmes need to be stepped up with a view to improving research and development in technologies, products and services which are needed for transformation into a more environmentally sustainable future. This crisis can’t be solved, unless there is a breakthrough technology that will make the goals achievable. This is why innovation in the field of “green” technologies will be needed and intellectual property rights will play an important role. Intellectual property rights may ensure that technological progress can be sold to allow for the continuation of research and development investment but they could also cause problems and constraints. The impact and opportunities that “Green IP” can have are therefore considerable. Regardless of their distinctions, “Green IP” will have an impact on companies from different industries, sectors, and locations. The consumer goods sector needs to improve how they go about changing the specifications for designing products that can be easily recycled and repaired.

Introduction

Green Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) is a relatively new and evolving concept that emerged in response to the growing global environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. It is an intersection between traditional intellectual property rights and environmental concerns, aiming to promote and protect innovation and technologies that have a positive impact on the environment and contribute to sustainable development.

The concept of Green IPR gained momentum as the world recognized the need for sustainable practices and solutions to address the adverse effects of industrialization and economic growth on the environment. Intellectual property rights, such as patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets, have long been used to incentivize and protect innovations in various fields. However, the conventional application of IPR did not explicitly consider environmental considerations.

With the rise of environmental consciousness and the acknowledgement of the limited nature of natural resources, there was a call for integrating environmental sustainability into the intellectual property framework. The idea behind Green IPR is to encourage the development and dissemination of eco-friendly technologies, products, and processes while safeguarding the rights of innovators and creators.

Introduction

The term “green intellectual property” (IP) is used to describe the legal protections afforded to environmentally friendly innovations. It’s a strategy for saving the planet by stimulating development of environmentally friendly products and methods. For a very long time, plastic consumption has been a huge environmental problem. A report on single-use plastics has been released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), outlining steps towards environmental sustainability. This research analyses the efforts made at the national, state, and local levels to reduce the usage of disposable plastics. Policymakers considering restricting the manufacturing and use of single-use plastics may find the insights it presents helpful. In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly established the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By 2030, the world’s population should be free of poverty, the planet would be in good shape, and people would live in peace and prosperity. Several of these targets address plastic use; for example, 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, 13: Climate Action, 14: Life Below Water, and 15: Life on Land.

Introduction

Intellectual Property emerged in new type of property referring to creation of the mind in today’s globalized world. While IP such as copyrights, patents, and trademarks are centuries old, but the extension of IPRs to living beings and knowledge related to them is relatively recent. Similarly Intellectual Property Rights (hereafter IPRs) mean legal protection to protect data from new inventions. In exchange for being required to reveal the formula or strategy underlying the technique, these rights enable the owner to stop imitators from commercializing the inventions or processes for a limited time. Biological Diversity refers to all kinds of living organisms found in an area which maintain balance and support life hence may be called as the cornerstone of sustainability of all living creations i.e. the hallmark of the life of living beings since origin. In general, all organisms, including flora and living things, microbes, and their ecosystems, are together referred to as biodiversity.

Introduction

Among the various countries worldwide, such as China, Kenya, and Sri Lanka, India stands as a significant player. In 2016, China and India collectively accounted for over 60% of the world’s total tea production. Furthermore, India holds the distinction of being the foremost producer of black tea, while China and Japan lead in green tea production. In India, Assam and Darjeeling are recognized as the primary states for tea production, while the Nilgiris and North-East regions also contribute significantly, playing a crucial role in boosting the country’s economic growth.

Assam annually produces over 400 million kilograms of tea, making it the largest tea-growing region globally.Assam has the world’s biggest tea plantations, which are important for India’s economy. The state is near the Brahmaputra River and shares borders with Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Because of its geographical location, this region encounters significant rainfall, especially during the monsoon season, with daily precipitation reaching as high as 250 to 300 mm (10 to 12 inches).A daytime temperature reaches to around 36 °C (96.8 °F), fostering greenhouse-like conditions of intense humidity and heat. The unique malty flavor for which Assam tea is renowned is shaped by the pivotal role played by its tropical climate.

Introduction

In an era increasingly defined by environmental consciousness and the imperative for sustainable practices, the sports industry emerges as a pivotal arena where innovation in green intellectual property (IP) holds transformative potential. At the forefront of this movement are patents, which not only safeguard inventive ideas but also serve as catalysts for integrating eco-friendly technologies into sports equipment. This chapter explores the profound impact of green patents within the sports sector across four key dimensions, illuminating their role in driving sustainability initiatives and reshaping industry dynamics.

The integration of sustainable technologies in sports equipment represents a paradigm shift towards greener practices. From advanced materials in athletic apparel that reduce environmental impact to the design of energy-efficient stadiums, innovations in sports equipment are diversifying to align with global sustainability goals. Cutting-edge developments include biodegradable materials, solar-powered facilities, and water-saving technologies, each contributing to minimizing ecological footprints across the sports industry. By examining these advancements, we uncover how green patents not only spur technological advancement but also foster a culture of environmental stewardship among sports manufacturers and stakeholders.

Introduction

For upliftment of the Indian economy agriculture plays an important role as it has contributed immensely. Nearly, three quarters of India’s family depend on rural incomes. Majority of India’s poor live in rural areas. Most people depend upon the crops, vegetables, fruits grown by these rural population. India’s food security is depended upon the inputs made by the farmers which has been a reason for increasing food insecurity in India. To meet with this accelerated pace a productive, competitive, diversified and sustainable agriculture sector needs to be introduced (The World Bank, 2012).

India being a global agricultural powerhouse, is the world’s largest producer of millet, pulses and spices and also has the largest cattle herd in the world, India also produces largest amount of wheat, rice and cotton. Agriculture is a part of India’s culture and tradition. In India, the culture, tradition and festivals are in a way related to different crops grown by the farmers. Along with this agriculture is deeply rooted with the community lifestyle in India. The community freely share their knowledge related to growing, sowing and harvesting of crops, they also distribute or share the produced crops among each other freely (OECD, 2018).

Introduction

People visit tourist destinations for the purpose of enjoying the beauty, to relax and rejuvenate. One of the popular destinations chosen by all are hill stations. Darjeeling, also known as the Queen of Hills, is a popular tourist destination visited by six-hundred-thousand Indians and thirty-thousand foreigners annually (Bhattacharya, n.d.). The primary attractions that make Darjeeling worth visiting are the magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga range and the lush tea gardens. As a result of the advancement in technology, the luxury of travel is now feasible to all sections of society because of which tourism in India has rapidly expanded in the past three decades. This is the result of: great progress and advancement of the Indian economy, India’s roaring IT sector and promotion of “Unbelievable India” by the Tourism Ministry. Although tourism has significantly boosted revenue and employment, it comes with its downsides: the harm that it poses to the environment if it goes unchecked. Since the number of tourists is greater than the ability of the environment to cope up with, it puts tremendous pressure upon the environment which can have irreversible negative impacts

Introduction

Resource management balances human needs with environmental preservation, focusing on sustainable development, responsible use, and conservation of natural resources. It involves environmental stewardship, economic efficiency, and social equity, ensuring equitable access for all societal segments while meeting present and future demands (Study Smarter, N.D; Mohd Akhter Ali et al., 2023).

There are specific areas such as water, soil, forests, waste, and sustainable harvesting practices. Each area presents unique challenges and opportunities, requiring tailored strategies and interventions to promote sustainability. The interplay between human activities, environmental impacts, and socio economic dynamics through the lens of resource management highlights the need for sustainable practices that balance development with ecological preservation, ensuring equitable resource distribution and long-term economic stability. Emphasis is placed on holistic approaches, participatory decision making, and capacity building to enhance resource governance and promote sustainable practices.

Introduction

One of the main challenges in sustainable farming is determining the patentability of living organisms, including genetically modified crops and biotech innovations. Balancing the rights of inventors and the public’s access to agricultural resources can be so complex the Seed saving and farmer’s rights Seed saving is a traditional practice where farmers save and reuse seeds from their harvest. However, some intellectual property rights (IPR) regimes restrict farmers’ ability to save and exchange seeds, potentially limiting their autonomy and leading to dependence on commercial seed suppliers. Biopiracy and traditional knowledge Protecting traditional knowledge and preventing biopiracy is a significant concern in sustainable farming. Nearby agriculturists and inborn individuals habitually have imperative conventional information approximately plant sorts and rural procedures that’s esteemed, and they are decently compensated for their endeavors. Maintainable advancement became a major worldwide agenda thing within the afterward decades of the 20th century! According to the Brundtland report from 1987: “Our Common Future,” provided the most recognized concept of sustainable development, meeting future demands without sacrificing existing practices to be adopted for future aspects. (Ahmed Abdel-Latif, 2021). While a few Intellectual property rights have been pointed out such as the plant breeder’s rights trademark, security of plant assortments and ranchers’ rights (PPV and FR), topographical signs, and exchange insider facts are exceptionally significant to horticulture. In expansion, format plans for chips particularly planned for farming; logical papers, and tv programs covering thoughts related to horticulture and partnered segments must be considered. (Datta, 2016).

Introduction

In today’s world, where environmental issues are prominent and there’s a growing realization of our planet’s limited resources, the concepts of sustainable harvesting and conservation have become extremely important. They act as guiding principles, directing us to use resources responsibly and to protect the diverse life and ecosystems on Earth. The paper is designed to explore the core principles of sustainable harvesting and conservation, emphasizing their critical importance and the pressing need for a careful equilibrium between utilizing resources and safeguarding the environment. The paper analyzes laws, policies, and delving into Sikkim’s sustainable conservation and harvesting methods, and argues that successful implementation of these strategies presents Sikkim as a model that can be replicated worldwide. Sikkim’s proactive initiatives, such as banning plastic and harmful substances, as well as implementing measures to reduce pollution, showcase a forward thinking approach to environmental stewardship(Sikkim, ND),. These actions set an example for other areas to emulate, promoting a more sustainable and responsible relationship with our natural surroundings.

Introduction

Western world started paying attention to climate change after the Industrial Revolution when collateral environmental problems began appearing with the development. But in India, many shastras gave philosophy of sustainable development before the evolution of many civilizations.

It means that “All this is for habitation by the Lord, whatsoever is individual universe of movement in the universal motion. Man should use all resources by renunciation, he should not see them with feeling of lust”. Here, renunciation means controlled use of resources. It is known as Green Application of the resources nowadays.

Whenever the term ‘green’ is used as an adjective with certain phrases, the said phrase is considered to depict a friendly character with the environment. In this sense, the Cambridge Dictionary defines the word ‘green’ as “relating to or believing in the protection of the natural environment.” For instance, Green Technology, one of those concepts towards which this paper is concerned, will refer to those technologies which are environment friendly. But this won’t help us understand what green technology actually means.

Introduction

The recognition of environment as the desired precondition for human existence and development both by Millennium Development Goals (MDG) as well as Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDG) unquestionably shows its importance and necessity. The impact of climate change is fast getting into our understanding and are realizing the enormity of the situation. Consequently, global environmental issues are a growing concern among the people and communities of various regions today. The impending ecological disasters have forced the right-thinking people and organizations to seek an alternative in the form of managing natural resources without jeopardizing the developmental activities. The challenge is to enhance the standard of living compatible with ecology and environment. This underlines rather unquestionably the need to pursue a line of lifestyle and development design that is compatible with nature and the issue of the environment cannot left to languish at the bottom of priorities.

Sanitation

Sanitation and maintaining good hygiene conditions are the important aspect of seed storage in storage godowns. Maintenance of good hygiene conditions will maintain the quality of produce in the long run (Mahapatra et al., 2014) and these practices should not be overlooked. The threshing floors should be cleaned properly before the operation so that there is no mixing of seeds or any insect-pests or pathogens. Harvesting and threshing should be followed by cleanliness of godowns to protect the seeds from the harmful pest and pathogens (Upadhyay and Ahmad, 2011). The storage godowns should be well lighted and the area should be preferably sunny, free from weeds and mostly situated at elevated areas. Damp areas should not be selected for building storage godowns as it will affect the moisture per cent of seeds thereby enabling easy growth of insect-pests and diseases (Parimala et al., 2013). Before bringing the new produce to the storage godowns, they should be cleaned properly. The cracks and crevices of storage godowns if any should be sealed ahead and the walls of the godowns should be whitewashed (Hazam and Kumar, 2022). The new seed lots should not be mixed with the older lots. The floors should be disinfected, and it should be cleaned regularly.

Stored grain pests are one of the major constraints in obtaining quality seeds. They cause substantial yield loss in storage conditions affecting both the quality and quantity of the produce. Apart from causing direct loss to the grains, they also make them unfit for consumption through their excreta, scales and wings resulting in development of unpleasant odour (Upadhyay and Ahmad, 2011). They also act as a source of medium for growth of fungi or bacteria (Daglish et al., 2018). The method of infestation of stored gain pests is different from the insect pests infesting crops under field condition. Generally, the infestation of storage pests starts after harvesting. It has been reported that in India, there is a loss of about 14 million tons worth Rs. 7000 crores due to the infestation by different storage pests (Chaubey, 2022). The post-harvest loss in terms of quantity and quality by different storage insect-pests accounts for about 10-30 per cent (Rajasri and Kavitha, 2015; Yaseen et al., 2019).

Concept: A few of the numerous environmental elements that affect seed quality maintenance are moisture, temperature, humidity, and storage conditions. When some seedborne diseases or pests like insects are taken into consideration, seed quality can still be negatively impacted. Applying one or more pesticides to seed is the most economical and efficient way to keep pests away and improve seed quality.

Because pesticides are harmful, handling treated seeds after application requires additional caution and safety measures.

Definition of Treated Seed

The definition of “treated” is “application of a pesticide or subject seed to a process intended to reduce, control, or repel insects, disease organisms, or other pests which attack the seed or seedlings.”