AADIL SIR’s Material

(Ph.D; [Link]; [Link]; NET; [Link]; PGDDM; COPA)

Multidisciplinary Course

as per NEP 2020

(Environmental Issues and Sustainability)

Semester First

(Session 2022-2023)

Date: 8/11/2022

[Link]: 7006285180

Email: ehaan900@[Link]

Department of Environmental Science

Govt. Degree College Kokernag, Kashmir

Vision
“This course is designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of basic
environmental issues, drivers of environmental change and management
perspective. Furthermore, this paper will help the students to understand key
governance and policy interventions needed to improve the wellbeing of the
environment. This course will also highlight the role of citizens and eco-
movements to achieve the objectives of sustainability”.

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 COURSE CONTENT
Page No.
Unit I: GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES 3
1.1 Global Warming 3-5
1.2 Climate Change 6-7
1.3 Human Population Explosion 8-9
1.4 Desertification 10-12
1.5 Ozone Layer Depletion 13-15
1.6 Acid Precipitation 16-17
1.7 Global Biodiversity Loss 18-20
Unit II: ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE AND POLICY 21
2.1 Concept of Environmental Governance 21-22
2.2 Environmental Literacy 23
2.3 Environmental Governance at Global Level 24-25
2.4 Role of NGO’s and Corporate in Environmental Decision 26-27
Making
2.5 Constitutional Provisions for Environmental Protection 28
(Article 21, 48A, 51A (g))
2.6 National Environment Policy-2006 29-30
UNIT III: ENVIRONMENTALISM, CITIZEN SCIENCE AND 31
SUSTAINABILITY
3.1 History and Development of Environmentalism, 31-32
Biocentrism, Anthropocentrism, Ecocentrism
3.2 Environmental Movements or Greenbelt Movements 33-36
(Chipko Movement, Narmada Bachao Andolan)
3.3 Role of Citizen Science to Foster Environmental 37-38
Protection
3.4 Concept of Environmental Justice and Environmental Stewardship 39-41
3.5 Ecological Footprint and Sustainability 42-43
3.6 Sustainable Development Goals (Overview) 44-47

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 UNIT I

GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

1. 1 Global Warming
Definition
“Global warming is an average increase in the temperature of the atmosphere
near the Earth’s surface and in the troposphere, which can contribute to changes
in global climate patterns. Global warming can occur from a variety of causes,
both natural and human induced. In common usage, “global warming” often
refers to the warming that can occur as a result of increased emissions of
greenhouse gases from human activities.”
Greenhouse Gases
The phenomenon that worries the environmental scientists is that due to
anthropogenic activities there is an increase in the concentration of the greenhouse
gases in the air that absorb infrared light containing heat and results in the re-
radiation of even more of the outgoing thermal infrared energy, thereby increasing
the average surface temperature beyond 15°C. The phenomenon is referred to as
the enhanced greenhouse effect to distinguish its effect from the one that has been
operating naturally for millennia. The greenhouse gases present in the troposphere
and resulting in an increase in the temperature of air and the earth are discussed
here: Carbon dioxide (CO2); Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs); Methane (CH4) and
Nitrous oxide (N2O).
(i) Carbon dioxide (CO2)
It contributes about 55% to global warming from greenhouse gases produced by
human activity. Industrial countries account for about 76% of annual emissions.

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The main sources are fossil fuel burning (67%) and deforestation, other forms of
land clearing and burning (33%). CO2 concentration in the atmosphere was 355
ppm in 1990 that is increasing at a rate of 1.5ppm every year.
(ii) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
These are believed to be responsible for 24% of the human contribution to
greenhouse gases. They also deplete ozone in the stratosphere. The main sources of
CFCs include leaking air conditioners and refrigerators, evaporation of industrial
solvents, production of plastic foams, aerosols, propellants etc. Atmospheric
concentration of CFC is 0.00225 ppm that is increasing at a rate of 0.5% annually.
(iii) Methane (CH4)
It accounts for 18% of the increased greenhouse gases. Methane is produced when
bacteria break down dead organic matter in moist places that lack oxygen such as
swamps, natural wetlands, paddy fields, landfills and digestive tracts of cattle,
sheep and termites. Atmospheric concentration of methane is 1.675 ppm and it is
increasing at a rate of 1% annually.
(iv) Nitrous oxide (N2O)
It is responsible for 6% of the human input of greenhouse gases. Besides trapping
heat in the troposphere it also depletes ozone in the stratosphere. It is released from
nylon products, from burning of biomass and nitrogen rich fuels (especially coal)
and from the breakdown of nitrogen fertilizers in soil, livestock wastes and nitrate
contaminated groundwater. The atmospheric concentration of N2O is 0.3 ppm and
is increasing at a rate of 0.2% annually.
Impacts of Enhanced Greenhouse Effect
The enhanced greenhouse effect will not only cause global warming but will also
affect various other climatic and natural processes.

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(i) Global temperature increase: It is estimated that the earth’s mean temperature
will rise between 1.5 to 5.5°C by 2050 if input of greenhouse gases continues to
rise at the present rate.
(ii) Rise in sea level: With the increase in global temperature sea water will
expand. Heating will melt the polar ice sheets and glaciers resulting in further rise
in sea level.
(iii) Rise in sea level will inundate low lying areas of cities like Shanghai, Cairo,
Bangkok, Sydney, Hamburg and Venice as well as agricultural lowlands and deltas
in Egypt, Bangladesh, India, China and will affect rice productivity. This will also
disturb many commercially important spawning grounds, and would probably
increase the frequency of storm damage to lagoons, estuaries and coral reefs.
(iv) Effects on human health: The global warming will lead to changes in the
rainfall pattern in many areas, thereby affecting the distribution of vector-borne
diseases like malaria, filariasis, elephantiasis, etc.
(v) Effects on agriculture: There are different views regarding the effect of
global warming on agriculture. It may show positive or negative effects on various
types of crops in different regions of the world.
Control: To slow down enhanced global warming the following steps will be
important:
(i) Cut down the current rate of use of CFCs and fossil fuel.
(ii) Use energy more efficiently.
(iii) Shift to renewable energy resources.
(iv) Increase nuclear power plants for electricity production.
(v) Shift from coal to natural gas.
(vi) Stabilize population growth.
(viii) Efficiently remove CO2 from smoke stacks.
(ix) Plant more trees.
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1. 2. Climate Change
Definition
Climate is the average weather of an area. It is the general weather conditions,
seasonal variations and extremes of weather in a region. Such conditions which
average over a long period (at least 30 years) are called climate.
The phrase ‘climate change’ represents a change in the long-term weather patterns.
Climate change is not a change of weather in a particular day; it is the cumulative
change of long term weather pattern i.e. changes in climate.
In other words, Climate change means a change of climate which is attributed
directly or indirectly to human activity that alters the composition of the global
atmosphere and which is in addition to natural climate variability observed over
comparable time periods.
Factors responsible for climate change
Significant human-led factors responsible for climate change are:
 Exponential growth in human population.
 Massive and unplanned urbanization and industrialization over the last
century.
 Burning of fossil fuels such as coal, petroleum, and natural gas at huge scale
to meet the growing energy needs of the bulging world population.
 Change in lifestyle and massive increase in the number of machinery,
gadgets, etc.
Impact of Climate Change on Human Environment
The following are some consequences of climate change:
 Change in hydrological cycle and water supply.
 Increase in tropical and temperate cyclones, cloud cover, tornadoes and
storms.

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 Changes in pressure belts and atmospheric circulation.
 Warming of ocean water may endanger the corals worldwide.
 Expansion of deserts and more desertification within deserts.
 Effect on food supply and international trade of grains.

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1. 3. Population Explosion
Definition
Population: A group of organisms of the same species which live together in one
geographical area at the same time is called population.
Population Explosion
There has been a dramatic reduction in the doubling time of the global human
population. In the 20th century, human population has grown much faster than ever
before. Between 1950–1990, in just 40 years the population crossed 5 billion
marks with current addition of about 92 million every year, or so to say, adding a
new Mexico every year. In the year 2000, the world population was 6.3 billion and
it is predicted to grow four times in the next 100 years. This unprecedented growth
of human population at an alarming rate is referred to as population explosion.
Causes of Population Explosion
Population explosion is causing severe resource depletion and environmental
degradation. Our resources like land, water, fossil fuels, minerals etc. are limited
and due to over exploitation these resources are getting exhausted. Even many of
the renewable resources like forests, grasslands etc. are under tremendous pressure.
Industrial and economic growth are raising our quality of life but adding toxic
pollutants into the air, water and soil. As a result, the ecological life-support
systems are getting jeopardized. There is a fierce debate on this issue as to whether
we should immediately reduce fertility rates through worldwide birth control
programs in order to stabilize or even shrink the population or whether human
beings will devise new technologies for alternate resources, so that the problem of
crossing the carrying capacity of the earth will never actually come.
Consequences of Population Explosion
The following are some consequences of population explosion:
(i) It can lead to depletion of resources.
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(ii) Severe competition for food and space.
(iii) Increase in psychological stress and strain.
(iv) Rapid pollution of environment.
(v) Large scale unemployment.
Measures to Control over Population
Various methods for discouraging population growth in shortest period are:
(i) To educate the people about the abuses of overpopulation (Population
education), food production, self-employment.
(ii) To provide free family planning aids (Family planning methods).
(iii) Motivating people to undergo sterilization process (Birth control).
(iv) More incentives to families observing family planning norms (Limited family).
(v) By imposing legal restrictions (by laws).
(vi) Over-population is one of the numerous problems facing India.

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1. 4. Desertification
Definition
Desertification is defined by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (CCD)
1995 as “land degradation in arid, semi-arid, and dry-sub-humid areas resulting
from various factors including climate variation and human activities”.
It can also be defined as ‘the diminution or destruction of the biological potential
of the land which can ultimately lead to desert like conditions’.
Causes of Desertification
Some of the principal causes, which promote desertification, are: over cultivation,
overgrazing, deforestation, increased population and water logging.
(a) Over Cultivation
Every cycle of cultivation is preceded by ploughing to remove weeds. The
ploughed land turns soil upside down thus exposing rich sub-soil to wind and water
erosion. Such land may remain barren for most part of the year and in turn lose
more soil due to erosion. Such erosion is most pronounced on slopes.
(b) Overgrazing
Deserts receive less rainfall. Deserts have sparce vegetation mostly consisting of
grasses and herbs less and best used for grazing. Overgrazing by goats, domestic
cattle remove the protective vegetation and expose the soil. Further the movement
of grazing animals loosens the soil surface by their hoofs. Unprotected loose soil
becomes highly susceptible to erosion by wind and water.
(c) Deforestation
Forests and vegetation prevent soil erosion and to hold water in soil. Plant roots
absorb and recycle nutrients released from the decaying organic matter. Forests are
often cleared to agriculture, timber, construction wood, firewood, raw material for
paper etc. All this leads to barrenness of the land leading to desertification.
(d) Increased population
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Livestock pressure on marginal lands accelerates desertification.
(e) Water logging
When free water is standing on the surface of soil, the soil is called waterlogged
soil. This condition usually arises under shallow ground water table due to seepage
from the adjoining canal or non -exploitation of the brackish groundwater and poor
drainage of the soil. Generally farmers apply flood irrigation to meet the water
requirement of the crops. Excess irrigation water, which is necessary for the
leaching of salts beyond the root zone of crops, may also sometimes causes water
logging due to poor drainage condition of the soil. Some soils are permanently
waterlogged whereas some are seasonally waterlogged especially during rainy
season. Under waterlogged condition, plant growth and development is restricted
mainly due to the deficiency of oxygen as plant roots require oxygen for
respiration. Water logging is most often associated with the problem of soil
salinity.
Effects of Desertification
A major impact of desertification is biodiversity loss, and loss of productive
capacity, such as the transition from grassland dominated by perennial grasses to
one dominated by perennial shrubs. In extreme cases, it leads to the destruction of
lands’ ability to support life.
Measures to Control Desertification
1. Afforestation and planting of soil binding grasses can check soil erosion, floods
and water logging.
2. Crop rotation and mixed cropping improve the fertility of the soil. It would
increase production which can sustain large population.
3. Desertification can be checked by artificial bunds or covering the area with
proper type of vegetation.

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4. Shifting of sand can be controlled by mulching (use of artificial protective
covering).
5. Salinity of the soil can be checked by improved drainage. Saline soil can be
recovered by leaching with more water, particularly where water table of the
ground is not very high.

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1. 5. Ozone Layer Depletion
Ozone: The word ozone is derived from the Greek word ‘ozein’, meaning “to
smell.” Ozone has a pungent odor that allows ozone to be detected even in very
low amounts.

Ozone Location: Most ozone (about 90%) is found in the stratosphere, a region
that begins about 10-16 kilometers (6-10 miles) above Earth’s surface and extends
up to about 50 kilometers (31 miles) altitude . The stratosphere begins at higher
altitudes (16 kilometers) in the tropics than in the Polar Regions (10 kilometers).
Most ozone resides in the stratosphere in what is commonly known as the “ozone
layer.” The remaining ozone, about 10%, is found in the troposphere, which is the
lowest region of the atmosphere between Earth’s surface and the stratosphere.

Importance or Significance of Ozone Layer/Ozonosphere: The significance of

ozone layer lies in the fact that presence of ozone in stratosphere, because the
lethal UV-radiations from the sun are blocked by this layer and protect the living
organisms on the earth. That is why this layer is called as earth’s protective
umbrella.

Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)

The substances that cause the destruction or depletion of ozone in ozone layer are
called as Ozone depleting substances. The main ODS include chlorofluorocarbons,
halons, carbon tetrachloride, hydrofluorocarbons, etc. that are responsible for the
depletion of ozone layer.
▪ Scientific evidence indicates that stratospheric ozone is being destroyed by a
group of manufactured chemicals, containing mainly chlorine or bromine, called
“ozone-depleting substances” (ODS).

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Thinning of Ozone Layer: The ozone depletion has caused thinning of the ozone
layer generally called as ozone hole. Ozone hole formation in Antarctica due to its
unique climatic and weather conditions. The Antarctic ozone hole was discovered
by Dr. J. C. Farman in 1985. During the cold, dark, southern winter in Antarctica, a
powerful swirling vortex of westerly wind is formed. In these conditions,
temperature drops below -85oC and clouds of ice particles called as polar
stratospheric clouds are formed. These clouds trap and concentrate the highly
reactive chlorine on the surface. Chlorine atoms get frozen and locked within ice
particles. At the end of the polar winter, with the first rays of the spring sun, the
chlorine atoms are released and these begin reacting with ozone. Thus, the hole is
observed every spring season.
Effects of Ozone Depletion
The following are some effects of Ozone Depletion
1. Effects of human and animal health
• Potential risks include an increase in the incidence of and morbidity from eye
diseases, skin cancer and infectious diseases.
• UV radiation has been shown in experimental systems to damage the cornea and
lens of the eye. Experiments in animals show that UV exposure decreases the
immune response to skin cancers, infectious agents and other antigens and can lead
to unresponsiveness upon repeated challenges.
2. Effects on terrestrial plants
• Psychological and developmental processes of plants are affected by UV-B
radiation.
• Response to UV-B also varies considerably among species and also cultivars of
the same species. In agriculture, this will necessitate using more UV-B tolerant
cultivars and breeding new ones.
3. Effects on aquatic ecosystems
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• Exposure to solar UV-B radiation has been shown to affect both orientation
mechanisms and motility in phytoplankton, resulting in reduced survival rates for
these organisms.
Control of Ozone Depletion : In order to prevent further damage to ozone layer, a
large number of substances are now being used as substitutes for ODS that are
being phased out under Montreal Protocol. These ozone friendly chemicals are
now widely being manufactured as alternatives to CFCs in refrigeration, foam
sector, industry and fire extinguishing by both developing as well as developed
countries.
Montreal Protocol
The Montreal Protocol is related to the substance that depletes the ozone layer of
the atmosphere. This International Treaty is designed to protect the ozone layer, by
phasing out the production of numerous substances believed to be responsible for
ozone depletion. The Treaty was opened for signature on 16 September, 1987 and
came into force on 1 January, 1989.
The main objective of this protocol was to reduce the consumption of ozone
depleting substances like CFCs, HCFCs, Halons, CCl4, etc.

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1. 6. Acid Rain/Acid Precipitation
Definition
The term ‘acid rain’ was coined by a British Chemist, Robert Angus Smith, in
1872. It is the major factor responsible for biodiversity depletion and
environmental degradation.
Acid rain literally means ‘the presence of excessive acids in rain waters’. Acid
precipitation is the rain water containing sulphuric acid (H2SO4) and nitric acid
(HNO3) along with a small amount of hydrochloric acid (HCl) which are formed
from the oxides of sulphur and nitrogen present in the air as pollutants and has a
pH of less than 5.6.
Effects of Acid Rain
 It causes deterioration of buildings especially made of marble e.g.
monuments like Taj Mahal.
 Crystals of calcium and magnesium sulphate are formed as a result of
corrosion caused by acid rain.
 It damages stone statues. Priceless stone statues in Greece and Italy have
been partially dissolved by acid rain.
 It also damages iron and steel structures.
 Aquatic life especially fish are badly affected by lake acidification.
 Many lakes of Sweden, Norway, Canada, etc have become fishless due to
acid rain.
 It damages foliage and weakens trees.
Control of Acid Rain
 Emission of SO2 and NO2 from industries and power plants should be
reduced by using pollution control equipments.

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 Liming of lakes and soils should be done to correct the adverse effects of
acid rain. A coating of protective layer of inert polymer should be given in
the interior of water pipes for drinking water.
 Implementation of the environmental pollution laws more effectively.
 EIA on any major/minor industry before the establishment.
 Public awareness about acid rain and its impact on economy, society and
ecology.
 Planting air pollution tolerant tress (like Peepal tree) near industries is
known as Greenbelt Designing.

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1. 7. Global Biodiversity Loss
Definition
The term ‘Biodiversity’ was coined by Walter G. Rosen in the national forum on
Biodiversity held in Washington [Link] 1986. Biodiversity is now an international
buzzword through its use in the Biodiversity Convention which has been agreed on
by the UNCED.
Bio = life/living beings; Diversity = Variations/variety
It is defined as “variety or variability among living organisms and variety among
the ecosystems in which they live, is known as biodiversity”.
Loss of Biodiversity/Threats to Biodiversity
The main human impacts which threaten biodiversity are:
(i) Habitat Destruction: Destruction of habitats by humans is the largest causes of
loss of biodiversity. The greatest destruction of biological communities is caused
due to expansion of human activities and human population. As per JUCN, UNEP-
report (1986), more than 50% of the wild life habitats have been destroyed in the
old world tropical countries and there are high rates of destruction going on in
Asian countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and India too. Most of the habitat
destruction has been caused in recent times due to rapid expansion of human
population and human activities like mining, deforestation, expansion of
agriculture, constructions, all have caused a great threat to the world biodiversity.
(ii) Habitat Fragmentation: Sometimes the loss of habitat is in installments so
that the habitat is divided into small and scattered patches, a phenomenon known
as habitat fragmentation. Due to habitat fragmentation many song birds are
vanishing.
(iii) Hunting: Animals are killed for enjoyment to provide food is known as
hunting.

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(iv) Poaching of Wildlife: Illegal trading of animals to obtain useful and costly
materials is known as poaching. Poaching of wildlife for trade and commercial
activities has been on the rise for the last many decades. It has been a significant
cause of the extinction of hundreds of species and the endangerment of many
more, such as whales and many African large mammal, Asian tigers, etc. Most
extinction over the past several hundred years is mainly due to overharvesting for
food, fashion, and profit. Illicit trade in wildlife in current times is driving many
species of wild animals and plants to extinction. Elephants are poached for ivory;
tigers and leopards for their skin; pangolins for meat and scales; and rare timber is
targeted for hardwood furniture.
(v) Introduction of Exotic Species: species which are not the natural members of
a community but have been introduced into that community arte known as exotic
species. These may be free from diseases, parasites and competition in the newly
introduced area and may become super aggressive. Such successful establishment
of the exotic species may kill the native species to the point of extinction by
aggressively dominating the area or may change the habitat conditions of the new
area so that the native species could no more persist.
(vi) Pollution: High temperature is caused by global warming and climate change.
Polar bear and penguins cannot survive at high temperature; they are threat and
becoming extinct.
(vi) Diseases: Organisms are more prone to diseases when under stress or under
captivity or are confined to a small geographical area. Human activities like plant
introduction may increase the incidences of diseases to wild species
(vii) Overexploitation: overexploitation of valuable species usually causes the
extinction of that very species at a much greater pace. Market hunting gives rise to
smuggling of furs, Hades specimens, teeth, tusks, skin etc. to have maximum
gains. Unsustainable methods of harvesting, international trade of species also
19
exploits the species to the point of extinction or reduces the size of population to a
point where from its recovery is very much difficult e.g. 200 yrs ago, the Passenger
pigeon, worlds most abundant bird inhabiting Eastern North American was drawn
to extinction in 1900 because of hunting pressure and habitat destruction causing
the complete removal of this species from the globe.

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 UNIT II
ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERANCE AND
POLICY
2. 1. Concept of Environmental Governance
Environmental Governance comprises the rules, practices, policies and institutions
that shape how humans interact with the environment. Good environmental
governance takes into account the role of all actors that impact the environment.
From governments to NGOs, the private sector and civil society, cooperation is
critical to achieving effective governance that can help us move towards a more
sustainable future. UNEP’s mandate is to be the leading global environmental
authority. From delivering expert scientific assessments to providing international
platforms for negotiation and decision making,
Goals of Environmental Governance
The Environmental Governance sub-programme focuses on strengthening global,
regional, national and local environmental governance to address agreed
environmental priorities. The sub-programme has four key goals:
• Sound science for decision-making: UNEP aims to influence the international
environmental agenda by reviewing global environmental trends and emerging
issues, and bringing these scientific findings to policy forums.
• International cooperation: UNEP helps States cooperate to achieve agreed
environmental priorities, and supports efforts to develop, implement and enforce
new international environmental laws and standards.
• National development planning: UNEP promotes the integration of
environmental sustainability into regional and national development policies, and
helps States understand the benefits of this approach.

21
• International policy setting and technical assistance: UNEP works with States
and other stakeholders to strengthen their laws and institutions, helping them
achieve environmental goals, targets and objectives. UNEP’s work on
Environmental Governance is focused on four core services:

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2. 2. Environmental Literacy – Three Levels of Learning
In examining the various ways that environmental experts and educators think
about and position public environmental education and information activities, a
framework emerges with three basic levels of learning: 1) Environmental
awareness, 2) personal conduct knowledge, and 3) true environmental literacy.
The first level is environmental awareness: NEETF/Roper research finds that
about 50% to 70% of adults have "heard of" most major environmental subjects
such as water and air pollution, energy efficiency, solid waste, habitat loss, and
climate change. Awareness is best characterized by simple familiarity with an
environmental subject with little real understanding of its deeper causes and
implications. The research demonstrates that environmental awareness by itself has
limited lasting effect on environmental stewardship attitudes (although it can
reinforce existing sentiments) and by itself has little effect on "environmentally-
friendly" behavior. The main advantage of widespread environmental awareness is
its contribution to public support for government action in environmental policy
and management.
Personal conduct knowledge does not require detailed knowledge of causal
sequences because most of the connections are fairly simple and usually require
just one step. We refer to this level as "personal conduct" knowledge because,
unlike general environmental awareness, people willingly go a step farther to take
personal action and make the connection between an environmental issue and their
own individual conduct.
The third and final level is "environmental literacy" and it is distinct from simple
awareness or immediate personal conduct instruction because of its depth of
information and the actual skills (thinking and doing) that are imparted. True
environmental literacy takes time. It can't be placed in an educational
"microwave."
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2.3. Environmental Governance at Global Level/Outlook (institutional
arrangements)
The GEO is UNEP’s flagship assessment and the only UN report with an outlook
component to provide a regular update on the state and trends of the global
environment. It identifies policy options and their indicative costs and benefits,
bringing diverse stakeholder groups together to raise awareness on these key trends
and policy solutions. UNEP is currently working on the fifth GEO which will be
published in 2012, and will contribute to the Rio+20 preparations.
 Scientific networks: To help close science-policy gaps, UNEP works to
connect key scientific networks to policymakers and development
authorities.
 Capacity building tools and services: UNEP helps States and other actors
design and deploy tools to regularly monitor their natural resources and keep
their environmental situation under review. International cooperation UNEP
catalyses international efforts to implement internationally agreed
objectives.
 International laws, norms and standards: UNEP promotes cooperation
on environmental policy between governments, UN agencies, other
intergovernmental bodies, and major groups and stakeholders. UNEP’s work
focuses in particular on aligning international laws and standards with the
goals, targets and commitments identified in the UN’s Programme for the
Development and Periodic Review of Environmental Law (Montevideo
Programme).
 Setting the global agenda: UNEP uses alert services, such as annual
reports, to update the global community on emerging environmental issues,
problems and trends. UNEP also uses its many assessments and indicators
on the state of the global environment to steer the global policy dialogue. To
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 enhance cooperation, UNEP helps link national and regional agendas
through the priorities set by regional and sub regional ministerial
environmental forum and the Governing Council.
 Environmental law and institutions: UNEP helps governments develop
and strengthen their judicial, political and legal systems to provide a sound
basis for environmental governance.
 Regional institutions: UNEP helps develop and strengthen institutional
arrangements across the world that support sustainable management of
shared natural resources, and address transboundary environmental issues.

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2. 4. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO’s)
 NGO’s are non-governmental organizations usually referred to as
organizations which are not part of government though could be funded by
the government. The primary objective of these organizations is public
service.
 Environmental NGO’s can play a crucial role in helping to plug gaps by
conducting research to facilitate policy development, building institutional
capacity and facilitating independent dialogue with civil society to help
people live more sustainable lifestyles. Environmental NGO’s typically take
up causes related to the environment such as climate change, air pollution,
deforestation, ozone layer depletion, waste management, biodiversity and
land use, energy, conservation, environmental degradation, land degradation,
etc.
 Some of the prominent examples of environmental NGO’s working in India
are Bombay Natural History, Assam Science society, Centre for
environmental Education, Centre for science education, Kerela Sastra
Sahitya Parishad, Greenpeace India, etc. These NGO’s have been successful
in protecting the environment to a great extent. Thus we can say that NGO’s
have played an active role in the protection of environment in India.
Characteristics of NGO’s
• Environmental monitoring and reporting.
• Protecting the environment.
• Management of resources and environment: Community based project.
• Providing basic social services.
• Awareness-raising, campaigning and advocacy.
• Education, training and capacity building.
• Government and NGO’s partnership.
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Role of NGO’s in Protecting the Environment
The NGO’s that work to save the environment conduct campaigns across the
country to create awareness among people about the depleting natural resources.
Moreover, due to the increasing number of factories, chemical waste gets mixed
with clean drinking water causing health problems. NGO’s for environment in
India have helped reduce deforestation, soil erosion and they educate the people on
the significance of segregating waste material into biodegradable waste. NGO’s for
environment in India, take steps to educate people and make them aware of the
perishing environment. There are NGO’s in India that help in preserving the
environment: Creating awareness among the public on current environmental
issues and solutions. These also help in
i. Facilitating the participation of various categories of stakeholders in the
discussion on environmental issues.
ii. Conducting participatory rural appraisal.
iii. Being involved in the protection of human rights to have a clean
environment.
Conclusion
NGO’s contribute to global environmental governance in different ways and
to different degrees by offering knowledge and expertise, moral arguments
and new ideas, and by taking action on implementing policies and assuming
the role of stakeholders. The approaches used by NGO’s, and ultimately
their influence, depend in some part on their resources and their
comparative advantages in terms of, for example, expertise, access to policy-
makers, or the ability to join networks. The overall landscape of NGO’s
involved in global environmental governance is hence characterized by
plurality, inequality, and contradictions.

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2.5 Constitutional Provisions for Environmental Protection
Provisions for environmental protection in the Constitution of India were made
within four years of Stockholm Conference, in 1976, through the 42nd amendment
as follows:
 Article 48-A of the Constitution provides: “The state shall endeavour to
protect and improve the environment and to safeguard forests and wildlife of
the country.” This article falls under the Part IV of the Constitution deals
with the Directive Principles of State Policy.
 Article 51A (g) provides: “It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to
protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers
and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures.” This article falls
under the Part IVA of the Constitution deals with the Fundamental Duties.
 Articles 21: Under Fundamental Rights (Part-III), Articles 21, 14 and 19
have been used by judiciary to establish Right to clean environment as one
of the implied fundamental rights. Article 21 which says: “no person shall be
deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure
established by law”, has been subject to maximum scrutiny by Supreme
Court, which has mandated for more than once that the right to environment,
free of danger of disease and infection are inherent in this act.
 Thus, whenever any problem of environment occurs or is brought before the
court, the Article 21, 48A and51A (g) play an important role in giving
justice and reminding states and their citizens their due duties towards
improvement and protection of our environment.
 Apart from the above, Supreme Court (via Article 32) and High Courts (via
Article 226) have frequently admitted to public interest litigation related to
environment.

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What is an Environmental Policy?

Environmental policy is defined as “any action deliberately taken to manage

human activities with a view to prevent, reduce, or mitigate harmful effects on
nature and natural resources, and to ensure that man-made changes to the
environment do not have harmful effects on human or the environment”.
2. 6. National Environment Policy-2006
The National Environment Policy seeks to extend the coverage, and fill in
gaps that still exist, in light of present knowledge and accumulated
experience. It does not displace, but builds on the earlier policies.
 The dominant theme of this policy is that while conservation of
environmental resources is necessary to secure livelihoods and well-being of
all, the most secure basis for conservation is to ensure that people dependent
on particular resources obtain better livelihoods from the fact of
conservation, than from degradation of the resource.
 The policy also seeks to stimulate partnerships of different stakeholders, i.e.
public agencies, local communities, academic and scientific institutions, the
investment community, and international development partners, in
harnessing their respective resources and strengths for environmental
management.
 Involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies has been
highlighted.
 It also seeks to revisit the Coastal Regulation Zone notifications to make the
approach to coastal environmental regulation more holistic and, thereby,
ensure protection to coastal ecological systems, waters and the vulnerability
of some coastal areas to extreme natural events and potential sea level rise.

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Objectives of National Environment Policy-2006
The principal Objectives of this policy are enumerated below. These Objectives
relate to current perceptions of key environmental challenges.
 To protect and conserve critical ecological systems and resources.
 To ensure equitable access to environmental resources and quality for all
sections of society, and in particular, to ensure that poor communities, which
are most dependent on environmental resources for their livelihoods, are
assured secure access to these resources.
 To ensure judicious use of environmental resources to meet the needs and
aspirations of the present and future generations.
 To integrate environmental concerns into policies, plans, programmes, and
projects for economic and social development.

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 UNIT III
ENVIRONMENTALISM, CITIZEN SCIENCE AND
SUSTAINABILITY

3.1. Concept of Environmentalism, Biocentrism, Anthropocentrism,

Ecocentrism
Environmentalism
The Encyclopedia Britannica defines the term environmentalism as “a political
and ethical movement that seeks to improve and protect the quality of the natural
environment through changes to environmentally harmful human activities:
through the adoption of forms of political, economic and social organizations that
are thought to be necessary for or at least conducive to, the benign treatment of the
environment by humans; and through a reassessment of humanity’s relationship
with nature”. A simpler definition of environmentalism calls it “a social movement
that seeks to influence the political process by lobbying, education, activism and
setting an example in order to protect natural resources and ecosystem.
Bio-centric Philosophy: Bio-centric philosophy claims that nature has an intrinsic
moral worth that does not depend on its usefulness to human beings and it is this
intrinsic worth that gives rise directly to obligations to the environment. Humans
are therefore morally bound to protect the environment, as well as individual
creatures and species, for their own sake. In this sense, bio-centric thinkers view
human beings and other elements of the natural environment, both living and often
non-living, as members of a single moral and ecological community. The bio-
centric principle of interconnectedness was extensively developed by British
environmentalist James Lovelock, who postulated in his Gaia: A New Look at Life

31
on Earth that the planet earth is a single living, self regulating entity capable of re-
establishing an ecological equilibrium even without the existence of human life.
Environmental Ethics: Between Anthropocentrism and Ecocentrism
Environmental ethics is defined as the moral relationship between humans and the
natural environment. It is an area of environmental philosophy that faces a lot of
conflict due to the various subdivisions in terms of ethical perceptions. For
traditional and religious views, some people believe that they were given dominion
over nature’s plants and animals to serve their needs.
It all depends on how do we think and act. If we consider, nature has supplied us
with all the resources for success, the good-looking life and nurture us like a
mother, this is called as an earth-centric thinking or Ecocentrism. Due to this
perspective, it becomes obligatory to preserve the mother planet. The fundamental
reality is that humans cannot wear away the mother planet completely, but it can
devastate us in altogether. It is our fundamental demand to safeguard the
environment so that we can assure our survival, and avert ourselves from
deteriorates. Thus, it can say all that exists in nature and all natural systems have
indigenous value. If human beings have to remain alive, the environment needs to
be safeguard. The earth is our home and dwell for all other living beings too. We
need to remind the age old adage “live and let live”. Now it is our moral duty to
protect our mother planet from any detriment and if it is harm we have to support
in its recapture. Similarly, if we consider, man is all mighty and the highest
creature on this mother planet and human is the dominant of nature and can
harness it at his desire, it shows our human-centric perspective and thus it is called
anthropocentric.

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3. 2. Environmental Movements/Greenbelt Movements
Environmental movements are generally understood as those movements that are
taken up against the development projects as the latter depend on vast amounts of
natural resources and their injudicious use and exploitation.
Chipko Movement/The tree-Hugging Movement
 The first recorded event of Chipko however, took place in village Khejarli,
Jodhpur district, in 1730 AD, when 363 Bishnois, led by Amrita Devi
sacrificed their lives while protecting green Khejri trees, considered sacred
by the community, by hugging them, and braved the axes of loggers sent by
the local ruler, today it is seen an inspiration and a precursor for Chipko
movement of Garhwal.
 The women spotted the labour with axes, who came to cut the trees, they
protested and vowed to protect the trees. Small groups of women kept
constant vigilance and hugged the trees in order to prevent the felling. Led
by Gauri (sometimes referred as Gaura) Devi and Gunga Devi, along with
their co-workers, the movement was a much successful one.
 The Chipko Movement, which is also identified chiefly as a women’s
movement, originated in the Garhwal Himalayan mountain region of the
present Uttarakhand state.
 This movement was launched by Sunderlal Bahuguna along with Chandi
Prasad Bhutt in Dec, 1973 at a small hilly village at Tehri, District Garhwal
of Uttarakhand State.
 It is a social-ecological movement that practised the Gandhian methods of
satyagraha and non-violent resistance, through the act of hugging trees to
protect them from falling.

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  The movement was launched from Srinagar (Garhwal) to Siliguri (West
Bengal).
 The main aim of movement was to save trees on the Himalayan slopes.
 According to Chipko Movement, a self sustained community requires 5F’s
i.e., (food, fodder, fuel, fibre and fertilizer).
 The landmark event in this struggle took place on March 26, 1974, when a
group of peasant women in Reni village, Hemwalghati, in Chamoli district,
Uttarakhand, India, acted to prevent the cutting of trees and reclaim their
traditional forest rights that were threatened by the contractor system of the
state Forest Department.
 By the 1980’s the movement had spread throughout India and led to
formulation of people-sensitive forest policies, which put a stop to the open
felling of trees in regions as far reaching as Vindhyas and the Western
Ghats.
Appiko Movement
• Appiko movement was a revolutionary movement based on environmental
conservation in India.
• The Chipko movement in Uttarakhand in the Himalayas inspired the
villagers of the district of Karnataka province in southern India to launch a
similar movement to save their forests.
• It was started in 8 September 1983, men, women and children of Salkani
village, District Kanara in Karnataka State “hugged the trees and forced the
axeman to stop felling the trees” in Kalase forest. (The local term for
“hugging” in Kannada is ‘appiko’.)
• Appiko movement gave birth to a new awareness all over the southern
India.

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Narmada Bachao Movement/Andolan
India’s first Prime Minister Mr. Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru once said that the “Dams
are the temples of the modern India”. Such remark of his is considered the
construction of the dams is quite essential part of the development of a country,
although he reiterated them as “a disease of gigantism” which India should
abandon. During 1970’s Govt. of India formulated a plan to build 30 dams on the
river Narmada that flows through Gujarat, MP and Maharashtra. The construction
of two major dams Sardar Sarovar project in Gujarat and Indra Sagar project in
Madhya Pradesh raised the main conflict among the masses of the Narmada valley.
As a part of Narmada Dam Project the aim of these dams is to provide irrigation
and electricity to these states. Thus the Narmada Bachao Andolan got developed
gradually as a resistance movement spearheaded by native tribal’s, farmers,
environmentalists and human rights activists against the construction of these
dams. The mode of campaigning under this Andolan includes court actions, hunger
strikes, rallies and gatherings and other support from notable persons. The chief
leaders of this movement, Baba Amete and Medha Patker later on received the
Right Livelihood Award in 1961. Baba Amete registered a case in courts against
both these projects in both the states. As per the reports of MoEF, the
environmental cost of Sardar Sarovar and Indra Sagar project will be the loss of
forest area worth 30923 crores and 8190 crores respectively. About 80 million
trees will be cut down in one go and the ecological balance of the area would be
seriously damaged by changing the climate and hydrological cycle. As per the
official report, about 130428 hectares of land area would be submerged including
55681 hectares of agricultural lands and 56066 hectares of forest land. Besides,
there would be displacement of about thousands of inhabitants and thousands of
livestock would be rendered devoid of grazing area. As a result, the report
submitted by Forest Advisory Committee in 1990 advocated that work on project
35
be stopped with an immediate effect. There were many stakeholders like Narmada
Asar Grastha Samiti (Gujarat based), Narmada Ghati Nav Nirmaan Samiti
(Madhya predesh) and Narmada Dharangrastha Samiti (Maharashthra based) who
worked for the need of fair rehabilitation plans for the people and voluntarily
opposed the dam construction. The movement was also joined by several
environmental organizations, local people, professionals and activists as founders
of a non-violent movement to pressurize the World Bank to stop the aid for the
construction of the project. With the help of experts from different fields this
Andolan has worked out alternate measures for both irrigation as well as electricity
generation for these states. For energy scenario, a combination of energy
conservation, decentralized power generation and natural gas plants was suggested
to prove less harmful to the environment than the energy provided by Narmada
project in terms of cheaper electricity, less displacement of people and less damage
to the forest land. For ensuring safe supply of water to these states, stress was laid
down on new strategy of water conservation and watershed development projects.
These measures help in preserving and reviewing ground water and waters of
many small and large surface water bodies. This is to be done in a non destructive
manner with full public involvement which is beneficial to both environment and
people to yield significant results. In reality, the project is neither modified nor
stopped till date for any decisive conclusion.

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3. 3. What is Citizen Science?
Citizen science is an approach to environmental information that actively and
genuinely encourages and solicits public input in the scientific process and
incorporates data and information generated outside of traditional institutional
boundaries. In citizen science, the public participates voluntarily in the scientific
process, addressing real-world problems in ways that may include formulating
research questions, conducting scientific experiments, collecting and analyzing
data, interpreting results, making new discoveries, developing technologies and
applications, and solving complex problems. EPA has engaged in citizen science
primarily by working with community groups engaged in community citizen
science. Community citizen science is collaboratively led scientific investigation
and exploration to address community defined questions, allowing for engagement
in the entirety of the scientific process.
Citizen science is more than the participation of volunteers in research. It is a
model for the democratization of research and policy making. In addition, it is an
environmental movement that is changing the way the government and institutions
interact with the public.
Citizen Science in the Context of Global Sustainability
Citizen science is part of a global trend of sustainability that is built on
empowerment and community engagement. From community gardens and
renewable energy to community pollution monitoring, communities and cities are
building greater resilience and transitioning to greater self-sufficiency. Scientists
are finding new, cost-effective approaches to work with members of the public to
expand and increase scientific knowledge.
Citizen science—and greater citizen involvement in all aspects of government—
will play an important part in working toward a more sustainable future. EPA

37
should create conditions that support this transformation to advance the protection
of human health and the environment.
Citizen science can be driven by Individuals, Communities and/or Institutions
Community citizen science can be initiated and implemented almost entirely by
nonprofessional scientists in community groups. Although these groups may
approach the Agency for advice, EPA researchers have limited or no involvement
in project design and implementation. These efforts are conceived organically and
reflect areas of interest and concern among individuals and groups of community
members who are motivated to document local existing conditions and encourage
local, state, tribal and/or federal action toward greater environmental protection.
EPA often becomes aware of these projects when members of the public approach
the Agency with data and information indicating an environmental concern.
Institutions also may design studies that involve citizen scientists in activities such
as data collection or processing. Some institution-driven projects are initiated and
implemented within EPA, whereas others are designed and managed by
professional researchers and scientists. Citizen Science and Its Role in Sustainable
Development: Status, Trends, Issues, and Opportunities

38
3.4. Concept of Environmental Justice and Stewardship
What is Environmental Justice?
The concept of environmental justice as a mobilizing force emerged in the US in
the last forty years, in opposition to practices that were classified as environmental
racism. This is defined as ‘any policy, practice or directive that differentially
affects or disadvantages (whether intentionally or unintentionally) individuals,
groups or communities based on race or color’.
As defined by (Bullard RD. 1996), environmental justice is the principle that “all
people and communities are entitled to equal protection of environmental and
public health laws and regulations.” In the words of Bunyan Bryant,
“Environmental justice is served when people can realize their highest
potential”.
The key points considered in the environmental justice are:
1. Environmental justice mandates the right to ethical, balanced and responsible
uses of land and renewable resources in the interest of a sustainable planet for
humans and other living things.
2. Environmental justice calls for universal protection from nuclear testing,
extraction, production and disposal of toxic or hazardous wastes and poisons that
threaten the fundamental right to clean air, land, water, and food.
3. Environmental justice affirms the right of all workers to a safe and healthy work
environment, without being forced to choose between an unsafe livelihood and
unemployment. It also affirms the right of those who work at home to be free from
environmental hazards.
4. Environmental justice demands that public policy be based on mutual respect
and justice for all peoples, free from any form of discrimination or bias.
Environmental justice affirms the sacredness of earth, ecological unity and the
interdependence of all species, and the right to be free from ecological destruction.
39
5. Environmental justice is the social justice expression of environmental ethics.

Environmental Stewardship
Definition
Environmental Stewardship refers to the responsible use and protection of the
natural environment through active participation in conservation efforts and
sustainable practices by individuals, small groups, non-profit organizations,
federal agencies, and other collective networks. In other words,
The responsible use and protection of the natural environment through
conservation and sustainable practices to enhance ecosystem resilience and human
well-being.
Example of Environmental Stewardship
Environmental Stewardship is the responsible use and protection of the
environment. Examples of responsible use including the limiting the harvest of
natural resources. Examples of protection include conservation the creation of
national and provincial parks.
Why is it important?
Environmental Stewardship conserves natural resources, combats pollution and
protects biodiversity, but most importantly, it means we protect and sustain our
environment for future generations.
What are the Objectives of Environmental Stewardship?
The main objectives of include restoring habitats, recovering wildlife, increasing
and protecting at risk species, improving biodiversity, preserving natural resources
and ecosystems, and overall improving the sustainability of our environment
including both our urban and natural ecosystems.
Principles of Environmental Stewardship

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Core Principle 1: Resource Conservation – making the most efficient use of
resources (materials, energy and water) through:
 Energy Efficiency and Conservation
 Water Efficiency and Conservation
 Solid Waste Management and Conceptualizing Waste as a Resource
 Publications Management
 Events Management
Core Principle 2: Pollution Prevention – minimizing contamination of the
environment by chemicals or other materials through:
 Vehicle/Fleet Management
 Management of the Use of Chemicals and Other Hazardous Substances

41
3.5. Ecological Footprint and Sustainability
An Ecological Footprint is a measure of the amount of bioproductive land and sea
required to support a person’s lifestyle. It includes the land needed to grow their
food, dispose of their waste and absorb their carbon emissions. The footprint
counts all the impacts of personal spending as well as the business and government
expenditure on their behalf. In other words, the effect that a person, company,
activity, etc. has on the environment is called an environmental footprint. For
example, the number of natural that they use and the amount of harmful gases that
they produce.
Advantages of Ecological Footprints
 1. It is a single unit that allows disaggregation of indicators.
 2. It could be widely applied to various programs/ activities.
 3. It may be top down or bottom up.
 4. It is useful as a means of communication policy.
 5. The method is constantly being updated and improved by the Global
Footprint Network.
Disadvantages of Ecological Footprints
 1. Ecological footprint analysis uses hypothetical land, which does not
represent the actual land use.
 2. It simplifies the use of natural resources,
 3. It risks as having double counting.
 4. Most are portraits of consumption.

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Sustainability
Sustainability means meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability is a holistic approach
that considers ecological, social and economic dimensions, recognizing that all
must be considered together to find lasting prosperity.
Pillars of Sustainability
There are three pillars of sustainability:
Environmental Sustainability
 Ecological integrity is maintained, all of earth’s environmental systems are
kept in balance while natural resources within them are consumed by
humans at a rate where they are able to replenish themselves.
Economic Sustainability
 Human communities across the globe are able to maintain their
independence and have access to the resources that they require, financial
and other, to meet their needs. Economic systems are intact and activities are
available to everyone, such as secure sources of livelihood.
Social Sustainability
 Universal human rights and basic necessities are attainable by all people,
who have access to enough resources in order to keep their families and
communities healthy and secure. Healthy communities have just leaders who
ensure personal, labour and cultural rights are respected and all people are
protected from discrimination.

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3.6 Concept of Sustainable Development

Brundtland Report, also called Our Common Future, a publication released in 1987
by the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED) introduced
and defined the concept of Sustainable Development as “meeting the needs of the
present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own
needs.”

Today sustainable development has become a buzz word and hundreds of

programmes have been initiated in the name of sustainable development. A clear
discussion on sustainable development emerged on an international level in 1992,
in the UN Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), popularly
known as The Earth Summit, held at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Rio Declaration
aims at “a new and equitable global partnership through the creation of new levels
of cooperation among states”. Out of its five significant agreements,
Agenda-21 proposes a global programme of action on sustainable development in
social, economic and political context for the 21st century. This was followed by
UN World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) or “Rio + 10” in
Johannesburg, South Africa in 2002 (26 August - 4 September 2002) to review
progress since the Rio conference in 1992, and to agree a new global deal on
sustainable development and emphasize on national strategies for sustainable
development.
The key aspects for sustainable development are:
(a) Inter-generational equity: This emphasizes that we should minimize any
adverse impacts on resources and environment for future generations i.e. we should
hand over a safe, healthy and resourceful environment to our future generations.
This can be possible only if we stop over-exploitation of resources, reduce waste
discharge and emissions and maintain ecological balance.

44
(b) Intra-generational equity: This emphasizes that the development processes
should seek to minimize the wealth gaps within and between nations. The Human
Development Report of United Nations (2001) emphasizes that the benefits of
technology should seek to achieve the goals of intra-generational equity. The
technology should address the problems of the developing countries, producing
drought tolerant varieties for uncertain climates, vaccines for infectious diseases,
clean fuels for domestic and industrial use. This type of technological development
will support the economic growth of the poor countries and help in narrowing the
wealth gap and lead to sustainability.
Measures for Sustainable Development
Some of the important measures for sustainable development are as follows:
(i) Technology: Using appropriate technology is one which is locally adaptable,
eco-friendly, resource efficient and culturally suitable. It mostly involves local
resources and local labour.
(ii) Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle Approach: The 3-R approach advocating
minimization of resource use, using them again and again instead of passing it on
to the waste stream and recycling the materials goes a long way in achieving the
goals of sustainability. It reduces pressure on our resources as well as reduces
waste generation and pollution.
(iii) Promoting Environmental Education and Awareness: Making
environmental education the centre of all learning process will greatly help in
changing the thinking pattern and attitude of people towards our earth and the
environment. Introducing subject right from the school stage will inculcate a
feeling of belongingness to earth in small children. ‘
(v) Improving Quality of Life Including Social, Cultural and Economic
Dimensions: Development should not focus just on one-section of already affluent
people. Rather it should include sharing of benefits between the rich and the poor.
45
The tribal, ethnic people and their cultural heritage should also be conserved.
Strong community participation should be there in policy and practice. Population
growth should be stabilized.

Sustainable development is a wholesome process of change in which the use of

resources, investment, the orientation of technological development and
institutional changes are all in harmony with and enhance both the current and
future potential to meet human needs and aspirations.

Elements of Sustainable Development:

 Population stabilization
 New technologies/technology transfer
 Efficient use of natural resources
 Waste reduction and pollution prevention
 “Win-win” situations
 Integrated environmental systems management
 Determining environmental limits
 Refining market economy
 Education
 Social and cultural changes
New UN Development Goals for 2030
 End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
 End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote
sustainable agriculture.
 Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
 Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong
learning opportunities for all.

46
  Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
 Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for
all.
 Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
 Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive
employment, and decent work for all.
 Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable
industrialization, and foster innovation.
 Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impact.
 Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for
sustainable development.
The new goals replace the eight Millennium Development Goals adopted at a
Summit in 2000, which expired at the end of 2015.

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 Environment Calendar

 World Wetland Day February 2

 World Forest Day March 21
 World Water Day March 22
 World Meteorological Day March 23
 World Earth Day April 22
 International Biodiversity Day May 22
 Anti-tobacco Day May 3
 World Environment Day June 5
 World Ocean Day June 8
 World Population Day July 11
 World Ozone Day Sept. 16
 World Habitat Day Oct. 3
 Wildlife Week Oct. 1–7
 International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction Oct. 13
 World Conservation Day Oct. 24
 International Day for Biological Diversity Dec. 29

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Role of Contemporary Indian Environmentalists in Environmental Awareness

In our country, efforts to raise environmental awareness have been initiated, and several

landmark judgments related to environmental litigations have highlighted the importance of this

subject to general public. Two noted personalities, who need a mention here, are Justice

Kuldeep Singh, known popularly as the green judge and Sh. M.C. Mehta, the green advocate,

who have immensely contributed to the cause of environment.

In 1991, the Supreme Court of our country issued directives to make all curricula environment-

oriented. This directive was, in fact, in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by

M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India (1988) that prompted the apex court to give a mandate for

creating environmental awareness among all citizens of India. Based on the judgement,

Environmental Studies is being taught as a compulsory course to all students. There are some

environmentalists in the present time who have made a mark in our country through

environmental activism. Sh. Sunderlal Bahuguna, known for his ‘Chipko movement’ and

‘Tehri Bachao Andolan’, Smt. Medha Patkar and Ms. Arundhati Roy known for their

‘Narmada Bachao Andolan’, the Magsaysay awardee Sh. Rajender Singh known for his water

conservation efforts are some such contemporary figures. Salim Ali is a renowned

ornithologist, famous for his work on Indian birds. In modern India, our late Prime Minister

Mrs. Indira Gandhi was instrumental in introducing the concept of environmental protection

in the Constitution of India as a fundamental duty while Mrs. Maneka Gandhi, formerly

environment minister, has worked a lot for the cause of wildlife protection. Citizen’s report on

environment was first published by late Sh. Anil Aggarwal, the founder Chairman of Centre

for Science & Environment. Even with many such key persons leading the cause to

environment, India is yet to achieve a lot in this field.

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About the Author

Dr. Aadil Gulzar Khan (Ph.D; [Link]; [Link]; NET; [Link]; PGDDM; COPA) presently is working as
Contractual Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Science, GDC Kokernag, Kashmir. He
has published 21 research papers in journals of repute, 10 book chapters and 3 articles. He has completed
4 training programs and has also worked in 3 projects as JRF position. He has attended more than 30
National and International conferences, seminars, workshops and webinars. He has also five years
teaching experience at University and College levels and also working IGNOU Counselor in [Link]
Environmental Science course. He has received the BEST YOUNG RESEARCHER NATIONAL
AWARD for the outstanding excellence and remarkable achievements in the field of TEACHING,
RESEARCH and PUBLICATIONS as well as received the Best Oral presentation award at
“International Conference on Environmental and Ecological Sustainability: Engaging the Stakeholders”
under IGNOU University. His areas of interested are Biodiversity and Conservation Biology,
Environmental Laws, Alpine-Treeline Ecotone Vegetation, Soil and Water Quality Analysis. He is a
member of Environmental Policy Group, Srinagar (J&K) and Ecoparyavaran Organization (Chandigarh).

“Start by doing what is necessary, then what is possible and suddenly you are doing the
impossible”. (Dr. Aadil)

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