UNIT – 1: INTRODUCTION TO
ENVIRONMENT STUDIES
Meaning of Environment
• The word environment is derived from “French’ word “Environ” which means
‘surrounding’. Our surroundings include both Abiotic & Biotic factors. Abiotic means
non-living beings like light, air, water, soil. Biotic means living beings like plants,
human beings, animals, micro-organisms.
• Hence environment is the combination of physical, biological, social and geographic
conditions that surround an individual or organism that ultimately affects its life.
Meaning of environmental studies:
Environmental studies is the science which studies the interaction between man and the
environment, emphasizing the links between different subjects related to this issue, including
ecology, economics, geography, geology, meteorology, politics and sociology.
The Government of India enacted Environment Protection Act in the year 1986
Components of Environment
The four major components of environment include lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and
biosphere, corresponding to rocks, water, air and life respectively.
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An atmosphere is a layer of gasses that envelop an astronomical object, held in place by the
gravity of the object. planet retains an atmosphere when the gravity is great and the
temperature of the atmosphere is low.
1) It implies the protective blanket of gases, surrounding the earth
2) It transmits only UV, near UV(300 to 2500 nm) and radio waves(0.14 to 40 m)
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The hydrosphere is the combined mass of water found on, under, and above the surface of a
planet, minor planet, or natural satellite.
1) It comprises of all types of water resources such as ocean, seas, lakes etc.
2) 97% -oceans.
3) 2% - polar icebergs and glaciers
4) 1% - Fresh water(rivers, lakes)
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A lithosphere is outermost rocky shell of a terrestrial planet or natural satellite
1) It is the outer crust of earth’s mantle.
2) It consists of minerals
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The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems and living organisms on Earth.
1) It indicates the realm of living organisms
Scope and importance of Environmental studies:
Environmental studies encompass a broad range of topics aimed at understanding the complex
interactions between humans and the natural world. Its scope includes:
[Link] Conservation:
Environmental studies emphasize the sustainable management of natural resources like
water, air, minerals, forests and wildlife. By studying resources usage patterns and limitations,
it encourages strategies for conservation & efficient resource use to prevent depletion and
ensure availability for future generations.
2. Pollution Control
Environmental studies address various forms of pollution – air, water, soil and noise
pollution & the environment. By studying sources, effects & control measures, it aims to reduce
pollution through waste management, emission regulations, promoting a healthier
environment.
3. Sustainable Development
• Exploration of renewable energy sources and green technologies.
• Advocacy for sustainable agricultural and industrial practices.
• Promotion of conservation strategies for natural resources.
4. Environmental Policies and Governance
• Evaluation of local, national, and global environmental policies.
• Study of environmental laws, treaties, and regulatory frameworks.
5. Public Awareness and Education
1. Education and advocacy on environmental issues.
2. Promotion of eco-friendly lifestyles and community-based initiatives.
6. Health and Environmental Linkages
• Study of the effects of pollution and environmental degradation on human health.
• Investigation of diseases related to contaminated water, air, and food.
Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies
Environmental studies are inherently multidisciplinary, as they integrate
knowledge and methodologies from various fields to understand and address
complex environmental issues.
It includes:
1. Natural Sciences:
Environmental Studies draws heavily from disciplines like ecology, biology, chemistry,
geology, and meteorology. Ecology helps in understanding ecosystems and
biodiversity, while biology studies living organisms and their impact on habitats.
Chemistry and geology contribute to understanding pollution, soil composition, and
resource extraction impacts. Meteorology aids in analyzing climate and weather
patterns, essential for understanding climate change.
2. Social Sciences:
Sociology, anthropology, and psychology contribute insights into how human
behavior, culture, and society influence environmental practices. Sociology
examines societal impacts on the environment, highlighting issues such as
urbanization, population growth, and social justice. Anthropology offers perspectives
on indigenous practices and their sustainable resource management. Psychology
aids in promoting environmental awareness and sustainable behaviours among
individuals and communities.
3. Economics:
Environmental economics examines the allocation of resources, cost-benefit
analysis, and the economic impact of environmental policies. It studies market-
based solutions like carbon pricing and incentives for eco-friendly practices, helping
policymakers implement strategies that balance economic growth with
environmental conservation.
4. Political Science and Law:
Environmental Studies address policymaking, governance, and environmental law.
Political science examines the roles of governments, international bodies, and NGOs
in implementing policies and regulations. Environmental law regulates pollution,
resource use, and conservation efforts, enforcing regulations that protect
ecosystems and human health.
5. Ethics and Philosophy:
Ethical and philosophical dimensions in Environmental Studies address questions of
environmental justice, human responsibilities, and rights of non-human entities.
These perspectives encourage a holistic understanding of environmental
stewardship, advocating for fair treatment of communities impacted by
environmental issues and promoting respect for all life forms.
6. Engineering and Technology:
Innovations in engineering and technology provide practical solutions to
environmental problems. Environmental engineering focuses on waste management,
pollution control, and renewable energy. Technological advancements contribute to
the development of sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly infrastructure, energy
efficient systems, and water purification.
7. Health Sciences:
Public health and environmental health sciences explore the link between
environmental factors and human health, addressing how pollution, climate change,
and biodiversity loss impact physical and mental well-being.
Concept of sustainability & sustainability development
Sustainability:
It refers to the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability
of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes the balanced integration of
environmental health, economic viability, and social equity to ensure long-term well-being for
people and the planet.
Key principles of sustainability include:
1. Environmental Integrity: Maintaining ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources.
2. Economic Efficiency: Encouraging resource use that supports long-term economic
stability.
3. Social Equity: Ensuring fairness and inclusiveness in resource access and benefits.
Sustainable development
Builds on the concept of sustainability, providing a roadmap for achieving it. It was
first defined by the Brundtland Commission in 1987 as:
"Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs."
Three Pillars of sustainability (or) Core Dimensions of
Sustainable Development
1. Environmental Sustainability
o Protection of natural systems to maintain ecological balance.
o Mitigation of environmental challenges like pollution, deforestation, and climate
change.
2. Economic Sustainability
o Promotion of stable and sustainable economic growth.
o Efficient use of resources to minimize waste and maximize benefits.
3. Social Sustainability
o Ensuring social inclusivity, equity, and access to basic human needs like food,
water, health, and education.
o Fostering community resilience and cultural diversity.
Sustainability development goals
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as
part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These 17 goals provide a universal
blueprint to address pressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and
environmental degradation, while fostering peace and prosperity.
Here is a summary of the 17 SDGs:
1. No Poverty
• Objective: Eradicate extreme poverty and reduce the number of people living on less
than $1.90 a day.
• Focus: Providing equal access to resources, basic services, and social protection.
2. Zero Hunger
• Objective: End hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition.
• Focus: Promoting sustainable agriculture and equitable food distribution.
3. Good Health and Well-being
• Objective: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
• Focus: Reducing maternal and child mortality, combating diseases, and improving
mental health.
4. Quality Education
• Objective: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
• Focus: Eliminating disparities in access and fostering lifelong learning opportunities.
5. Gender Equality
• Objective: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
• Focus: Eliminating discrimination, violence, and harmful practices.
6. Clean Water and Sanitation
• Objective: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for
all.
• Focus: Improving water quality, access, and efficient management.
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
• Objective: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
• Focus: Expanding renewable energy use and improving energy efficiency.
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
• Objective: Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth and
productive employment.
• Focus: Reducing unemployment, especially among youth and marginalized groups.
9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• Objective: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive industrialization, and foster
innovation.
• Focus: Enhancing technological advancements and access to information.
10. Reduced Inequalities
• Objective: Reduce inequalities within and among countries.
• Focus: Improving income growth for marginalized populations and promoting social,
economic, and political inclusion.
11. Sustainable Cities and Communities
• Objective: Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
• Focus: Improving urban planning, reducing slum conditions, and enhancing disaster
resilience.
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
• Objective: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
• Focus: Reducing waste, improving resource efficiency, and promoting sustainable
lifestyles.
13. Climate Action
• Objective: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
• Focus: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening resilience, and integrating
climate measures into policies.
14. Life Below Water
• Objective: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources.
• Focus: Reducing marine pollution, protecting ecosystems, and regulating overfishing.
15. Life on Land
• Objective: Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
• Focus: Combatting deforestation, desertification, and biodiversity loss.
16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
• Objective: Promote peaceful, inclusive societies with access to justice for all.
• Focus: Reducing violence, corruption, and strengthening institutions.
17. Partnerships for the Goals
• Objective: Strengthen global partnerships to support sustainable development.
• Focus: Mobilizing resources, enhancing cooperation, and building capacities.
Ecosystem:
• The term "ecosystem" was first used in 1935 in a publication by British ecologist Arthur
Tansley.
• Ecology (from Greek: οἶκος, "house", or "environment"; -λογία, "study of") is the branch
of biology which studies the interactions among organisms and their environment..
Meaning of Ecosystem
An ecosystem is a dynamic entity composed of a biological community and its associated
abiotic environment. Often the dynamic interactions that occur within an ecosystem are
numerous and complex.
COMPONENTS / STRUCTURE OF AN ECOSYSTEM
1. Abiotic components
The non-living factors or the physical environment prevailing in an ecosystem form the
abiotic components. They have a strong influence on the structure, distribution, behaviour and
inter-relationship of organisms.
Abiotic components are mainly of two types:
1) Climatic Factors: It include rain, temperature, light, wind, humidity etc.
2) Edaphic Factors: It include soil, pH, minerals and topography
2. Biotic components
The living organisms including plants, animals and micro-organisms that are present in the
ecosystem is called as biotic components.
It is further classified as:
1. Producers
2. Consumers
3. Decomposers
1. Producers: are the living organisms in the ecosystem that take in energy from sunlight and
use it to transform carbon dioxide and oxygen into sugars. Plants, algae and photosynthetic
bacteria are all examples of producers. As the green plants manufacture their own food
they are known as Autotrophs (i.e. auto = self, trophos = feeder).
2. Consumers (heterotrophs – Hetero = others, trophos = feeder) are living organisms in the
ecosystem that get their energy from consuming other organisms. Herbivores eat producers,
carnivores eat other animals and omnivores eat both.
The consumers are of four types:
a) Primary consumers/first order consumers / Herbivores : These are the animals that
depend on plants or producers for their food.
E.g.: Rabbit, deer, goat, horse etc.,
b) Secondary consumers/ second order consumers/primary carnivores: These are the
animals that feed on herbivores.
E.g.: Cat, fox, snake etc
c) Tertiary Consumers or Third Order Consumers: These are the large carnivores which
feed on the secondary consumers.
E.g.: Wolves.
d) Quaternary Consumers or Fourth Order Consumers or Omnivores: These are the largest
carnivores which feed on the tertiary consumers and are not eaten up by any other animal.
E.g.: lions and tigers.
3. Decomposers (Saprotrophs- Sapros = Rotten, trophos = feeder ) are the living component
of the ecosystem that breaks down waste material and dead organisms. Examples of
decomposers include earthworms, dung beetles and many species of fungi and bacteria.
Functions of an Ecosystem
1. Energy Flow:
• Energy enters the ecosystem through the sun and is captured by producers.
• Energy flows through food chains from producers to consumers and decomposers.
• Energy is eventually lost as heat at each trophic level.
2. Nutrient Cycling:
• Recycling of essential elements like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus between living
organisms and the environment.
3. Regulation of Ecosystem Services:
• Provisioning services: Food, water, timber, and medicine.
• Regulating services: Climate regulation, air purification, and flood control.
• Supporting services: Nutrient cycling, soil formation, and pollination.
• Cultural services: Aesthetic, spiritual, and recreational benefits.
ENERGY FLOW IN AN ECOSYSTEM
On average about 10 percent of net energy production at one trophic level is passed on to the
next level. In the flow of energy and inorganic nutrients through the ecosystem, a few
generalizations can be made:
1) The ultimate source of energy (for most ecosystems) is the sun.
2) The fate of energy in ecosystems is for it to be lost as heat.
3) Energy and nutrients are passed from organism to organism through the food chain as
one organism eats another.
4) Decomposers remove the last energy from the remains of organisms.
• The energy flow occurs through three processes in an ecosystem such as:
➢ Food chain
➢ Food web
➢ Ecological succession
Food Chain
A food chain represents the linear flow of energy and nutrients from one organism to another
within an ecosystem. It illustrates the feeding relationships between different species and the
transfer of energy across trophic levels.
Components of a Food Chain
1. Producers (Autotrophs):
• The base of the food chain.
• Organisms like plants, algae, and phytoplankton that produce their own food through
photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.
2. Consumers (Heterotrophs):
• Depend on other organisms for energy.
• Primary Consumers: Herbivores that eat producers (e.g., deer, rabbits).
• Secondary Consumers: Carnivores that eat herbivores (e.g., foxes, frogs).
• Tertiary Consumers: Top predators that feed on secondary consumers (e.g., eagles,
lions).
3. Decomposers (Saprotrophs):
• Break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem (e.g., fungi,
bacteria).
Types of Food Chains
1. Grazing food chain
Starts from green plants and from autotrophs it goes to herbivores to carnivores and so on.
2. Parasitic food chain
It goes from large organisms to smaller ones without outright killing as in the case of
predator.
3. Saprophytic or detritus food chain
Starts with the dead organic remains including metabolic wastes and exudates derived from
grazing food chain.
Food webs
A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains that illustrates the feeding
relationships and energy flow within an ecosystem. Unlike a simple linear food chain, a food
web shows multiple pathways through which energy and nutrients pass among organisms
Structure of a Food Web
1. Producers (Autotrophs):
• The base of the food web.
• Include organisms like plants, algae, and phytoplankton that produce energy through
photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.
2. Consumers (Heterotrophs):
• Primary Consumers: Herbivores that feed on producers.
• Secondary Consumers: Carnivores that eat herbivores.
• Tertiary Consumers: Top predators that feed on secondary consumers.
• Omnivores: Feed at multiple levels of the food web (e.g., humans, bears).
3. Decomposers and Detritivores:
• Fungi, bacteria, and detritivores break down organic matter and recycle nutrients back
into the ecosystem.
Ecological Pyramid
An ecological pyramid(also trophic pyramid, eltonian pyramid, energy pyramid, or
sometimes food pyramid) is a graphical representation designed to show the biomass or bio
productivity at each trophic level in a given ecosystem.
Types of Ecological pyramid
1. Pyramid of numbers - This shows the number of organisms in each trophic level without
any consideration for their size.
2. Pyramid of biomass - This indicates the total mass of organisms at each trophic level.
Usually, this type of pyramid is largest at the bottom and gets smaller going up, but
exceptions do exist.
3. Pyramid of Energy: When production is considered in terms of energy, the pyramid
indicates not only the amount of energy flow at each level, but more important, the actual
role the various organisms play in the transfer of energy.