Definition: Environment
Environment word is derived from the French word ‘Environmer’ which means to encircle or
surround. Biologist Jacob Van Erkul (1900) s derived this term
“The sum total of water, air and land and the inter-relationships that exist among them and
with the human beings, other living organisms and material.”
Environment refers to the sum total of conditions which surround man at a given point in
space and time.
Environment is sum of all social, economic, biological, physical, or chemical factors which
constitute the surroundings of man who is both creator and molder of his environment.
Environment is the sum total of water, air and land, interrelationships among themselves and
also with the human beings, other living organisms, and property. [Environment (protection)
Act, 1986].
Biotic factor: Plants, animals, microbes, human beings.
Abiotic factor: Soil, air, water, sunlight, temperature, rock, volcanos, earthquake, floods,
cyclones etc.
Environmental Studies
Environmental Studies is a multidisciplinary academic field which systematically studies
human interactions with the environment.
Environmental Studies can be defined as an interdisciplinary subject which involves
systematic approach for educating the people about the causes and effects of environmental
problems and touches upon the possible solution to it with an aim to preserve the quality of
environment. Environment encompasses the interaction between the living (natural) and
nonliving (cultural) world, within a particular geographical area. Because of revolution in all
sectors physical distances has shrinked the whole earth into a village called ‘Global Village”
Most traditions refer to our earth as ‘Mother Nature’ and most traditional societies have
learned that respecting nature is vital to protect their own livelihoods.
Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies
Multidisciplinary means interaction of various subjects or disciplines. Environmental studies
deal with all the aspects of biotic and abiotic components of the environment. Also,
Environment and environmental issues are complex in nature. Therefore, expertise from
different subjects or disciplines is required to understand different aspects of the
environment. We may require expertise from different disciplines to resolve various
environmental issues. Environmental science is a multidisciplinary subject where we deal
with different aspects using a holistic approach.
Environment is complex and has multifarious aspects. Environmental studies is a mixture of
all streams like Humanities, Science and Engineering, Life science, Law etc.
Life science includes Botany, Zoology, Microbiology, genetics, and biochemistry
For understanding Abiotic factors, one must know Physics, Chemistry, Geology,
Atmospheric Sciences, Geography, Geology, Oceanography etc.
Social Sciences, Sociology and Economics: to assess the socio-economic stature of the
population and possible changes the same with on-going developmental projects.
Law and Legal Aspects: expertise from legal background is also required to satisfy different
legal aspects during a developmental project activity (like land acquisition, relocation and
rehabilitation etc.). Environmental Laws provide the guidelines and legal measures for
effective management and protection of environment
Mathematics, Computer Modelling and Statistics: we need different statistical tools and
models to statistically validate the obtained data from the study. Also, we are using numerous
mathematical and computational models in day-to-day activities like meteorological
predictions.
It is associated with Engineering to provide technical solution for controlling pollution
Environmental education and mass communication this two subjects create awareness,
Environmental ethics provide the guidelines for sustainable lifestyle.
Environmental science: Environmental science is the study of the basic components of our
surroundings and their interactions.
Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies
Our history and mythology tell us how all forms of life are important for our wellbeing. But
we are utilizing nature for our greed and not for our need. For example, we use wood for n
number of reasons but we didn’t plant any trees. If the removal of the trees for any reason is
faster than regrowth and regeneration of the trees, then the supply of wood cannot be
replenished.
Indian Cultural heritage and people known for their contribution for Environment.
● Our Vedas have glorified every aspect of Nature including sun, water, mountains,
animals and plants and rivers as God and Goddesses
● Religions like Buddhism and Jainism call for non-violence and use of minimal
resources
● In 15th century saint environmentalist Guru Jambheshwar ji have remarkable
significance for environmental conservation. He preached about conservation of
biodiversity and a creed of ‘Bishnoi’ was created who followed his 29
commandments. Total 363 Bishnoi women and men who laid down their lives
protecting the Khejri tree in Rajasthan.
● The popular Chipko movement by Sunderlal Bahuguna in 1973 is derived inspiration
from those great sacrifices of 1730, led by Amrita Devi who laid her life saying, “If a
tree is saved from felling at the cost of one’s head, it should be considered as a cheap
bargaining.”
● Late Prime minister Indira Gandhi known for introducing the concept of
environmental protection in the constitution of India as a fundamental duty.
● Justice Kuldeep Singh, popularly known as green judge and sh. M. C. Mehta, the
green advocate has immensely contributed to the cause of environment. Because of
one public interest litigation the directives were given to introduce environmental
studies as compulsory study subject.
● Smt. Medha Patekar and Ms. Arundhati Roy are known for their ‘Narmada Bachao
Andolan’
● Water Man of India Sh. Rajendra Singh he was awarded The Magsaysay award for
his work on water conservation
● Mrs. Maneka Gandhi , former environment minister has work a lot for the cause of
environment
● Sh. G.D. Aggarwal a renowned scientist involved in ‘Ganga Bachao Andolan’
Environmental Protection efforts at National level
1. We have full-fledged Ministry named Ministry of Environment and Forests
since(MOEF) 1986, looking after all environment related issues and framing
guidelines, polices and legislations for environmental protection.
2. Concept of Eco mark- In order to increase consumer awareness about environment,
the Government of India has introduced a scheme of eco- labelling of consumer
products as “Ecomark” in 1991. It is an ‘earthen pitcher’ a symbol of eco friendliness
and our traditional heritage. A product that is made, used or disposed off in a harmless
manner is called eco-friendly and is awarded this eco-mark.
3. Eco-clubs- The MoEF has set up Eco-clubs in schools and colleges to create
awareness among student and their participation for noble causes.
4. Eco- task force- Army men are involved in various environment protection activities
under Eco-task force