Environmentalism

Origin And Development-

- The ecology word coined by Ernest Heackel. I mean household or habitat. As a political
ideology it is based on the belief that nature is interconnected whole , embracing humans
and non- humans as well as the inanimate world.
- The impact of air and water pollution on human life and health was noted even in
Roman times. Between the late 14th century and the mid-16th century AD, pollution was
seen to be associated with the spread of epidemics. Soil conservation was practised in
China, India, and Peru as early as 2,000 years ago. However, these concerns did not lead to
social movements and activism like the contemporary environmental movements. The
Industrial Revolution and its impact upon the natural environment and on human health, can
be considered as the key factor in the emergence of the contemporary environmental
movement in the late 19th century Europe and America.
- The American environmental movement began in the late 19th century with the
consideration of preservationist issues. Nature was considered as something to be enjoyed
and valued and not merely a factor of production. Because of the preservationists' agenda in
the 1960s and the Land and the Wilderness Act and the Water Conservation Fund of 1964
and the National Trails System Acts and the Wild and Scenic Rivers Acts of 1968, the first
wave of national environmental legislation started.
- The modern-day multifaceted environmental movement in the United States began in
the 1970s. This movement originally considered few important environmental issues of that
time. The best-seller “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson, who came to be known as the
“mother of the environmental movement” was published in 1962 and drew attention to
pesticides and their noxious effects on nature.
- Environmental movements also took place in developing countries like India. The
history of environmentalism in India is believed to have started in 1900’s, during the British
colonial period. The protests in rural communities have initiated environmentalism in India
whereas in the West it was started by scientists. On the 27th of March 1973, a group of
peasants in a remote Himalayan village stopped a group of loggers from felling trees. Thus
was born the Chipko movement, and through it the modern Indian environmental movement
was born.
- The environmental movements also have a distinct ideology like any other social
movement. An ideology can be defined as 'a group of ideas which give authenticity to an
existing or proposed system of relationships, and correspondingly support an action
programme to sustain the prevailing system'. It is an essential element of a social movement
and is action-driven and provides inspiration to the social movement. It also provides a
framework for the movement. There are diverse actors and issues of the environmental
movements and its ideologies. The environmental movements have two different ideological
orientations. The first is ‘ecocentric ideology’ and the second is ‘technocratic ideology’.

Shallow ecology and Deep ecology

○ Shallow ecology refers to the philosophical or political position that environmental
preservation should only be practised to the extent that it meets human interests.
○ It is more like a powerful and fashionable fight against pollution and resource
depletion rather than a radical change.
○ Exponents of this philosophy believe in continuing our present lifestyle, but with
specific tweaks aimed at minimising the damage to the environment.
 ○ Deep ecologism believes that humans should radically change their relationship with
nature.
○ Its proponents reject shallow ecologism for prioritising humans above other forms of
life, and subsequently preserving the environmentally destructive way of life in
modern societies.
○ It maintains that by sustaining this lifestyle, shallow ecologism further widens the
inequalities between countries
Objective-It aspires to sustain nature by making large-scale changes to our lifestyle
A reaction against the process of industrialization’

Unofficial un report only earth 1972

World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated annually on 5 June and encourages awareness
and action for the protection of the environment. It is supported by many non-governmental
organisations, businesses, government entities, and represents the primary United Nations
outreach day supporting the [Link] Environment Day was established in 1972 by the
United Nations at the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment ( 5–16 June 1972), that
had resulted from discussions on the integration of human interactions and the environment. One
year later, in 1973 the first WED was held with the theme "Only One Earth".

Idea of sustainable development was advanced in the 1987 Brundtland report

In 1987, the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), which had been
set up in 1983, published a report entitled «Our common future». The document came to be
known as the «Brundtland Report» after the Commission's chairwoman, Gro Harlem
Brundtland. It developed guiding principles for sustainable development as it is generally
understood [Link] Brundtland Report stated that critical global environmental problems
were primarily the result of the enormous poverty of the South and the unsustainable
patterns of consumption and production in the North. It called for a strategy that united
development and the environment – described by the now-common term «sustainable
development». Sustainable development is defined as follows:«Sustainable development is
development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs.»In 1989, the report was debated in the UN General
Assembly, which decided to organise a UN Conference on Environment and Development.

Pressure group like - greenpeace and friends of earth

Greenpeace is an independent global campaigning network, founded in Canada in 1971 by
Irving Stowe and Dorothy Stowe, immigrant environmental activists from the United States.
[3]
Greenpeace states its goal is to "ensure the ability of the Earth to nurture life in all its diversity"
and focuses its campaigning on worldwide issues such as climate change, deforestation,
overfishing, commercial whaling, genetic engineering, and anti-nuclear issues. It uses direct
[4]
action, lobbying, research, and ecotage to achieve its goals

Rio earth summit 1992 -

The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), also known as
the 'Earth Summit', was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 3-14 June 1992 The primary
objective of the Rio 'Earth Summit' was to produce a broad agenda and a new blueprint for
international action on environmental and development issues that would help guide
international cooperation and development policy in the twenty-first century.
Kyoto protocol 2005 2020
The Kyoto Protocol was an international treaty which extended the 1992 United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) that commits state parties to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, based on the scientific consensus that (part one) global warming
is occurring and (part two) that human-made CO2 emissions are driving it. The Kyoto
Protocol was adopted in Kyoto, Japan, on 11 December 1997 and entered into force on 16
February 2005. There were 192 parties (Canada withdrew from the protocol, effective
December 2012)[5] to the Protocol in 2020.
The Kyoto Protocol implemented the objective of the UNFCCC to reduce the onset of
global warming by reducing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere to "a level
that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system"

Principles of Environmentalism-
1. Ecology-
Ecology is the scientific study of the relationships between living organisms and their
environment. In environmentalism, ecology is an important principle that emphasises the
need to understand and protect the natural world.
Arguments for ecology in environmentalism include the following:
1. Interconnectedness: Ecology recognizes that all living organisms and their
environment are interconnected. This means that changes in one part of an
ecosystem can have far-reaching effects on the rest of the system. By understanding
these complex relationships, we can work to protect and preserve ecosystems.
2. Sustainability: Ecology recognizes the importance of managing natural resources in a
sustainable way. This means using resources in a way that does not deplete them
and allows them to regenerate over time. By adopting sustainable practices, we can
ensure that we meet our needs without compromising the ability of future generations
to meet their own needs.
3. Conservation: Ecology recognizes the importance of conservation and protecting
endangered species and ecosystems. This means preserving natural habitats and
working to prevent the loss of biodiversity.
An example of ecology in environmentalism is the study of wetland ecosystems. Wetlands
are important ecosystems that provide a range of benefits, such as water filtration and flood
control. By studying wetland ecosystems, ecologists can better understand how these
ecosystems function and the importance of conserving them.
Another example of ecology in environmentalism is the concept of ecosystem services.
Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans derive from ecosystems, such as clean air
and water, food, and medicine. By understanding the value of these ecosystem services, we
can work to protect and preserve ecosystems for future generations.
In summary, ecology is an important principle in environmentalism that emphasises the need
to understand and protect the natural world. By studying ecosystems and understanding the
complex relationships between living organisms and their environment, we can work to
protect and preserve the environment for future generations.

2. Holism-
Holism is the principle in environmentalism that emphasises the interconnectedness and
interdependence of all living organisms and their environment. This principle recognizes that
everything in nature is connected, and that changes in one part of an ecosystem can have
far-reaching effects on the rest of the system. Holism is based on the idea that the whole is
greater than the sum of its parts.
Arguments for holism in environmentalism include the following:
1. Interdependence: Holism recognizes that all living organisms and their environment
are interdependent. For example, bees and other pollinators are essential for the
reproduction of many plants. If bees were to disappear, it would have a significant
impact on the entire ecosystem, including the animals that rely on those plants for
food.
2. Systems thinking: Holism encourages systems thinking, which involves looking at the
larger picture rather than just the individual components of a system. This helps us to
better understand the complex relationships and feedback loops that exist within
ecosystems.
3. Resilience: Holism recognizes that ecosystems are resilient, but only up to a point. If
we disrupt the balance of an ecosystem by removing key species or introducing
pollutants, it can have a cascading effect on the rest of the system. By recognizing
the interconnectedness of all living organisms and their environment, we can work to
preserve the resilience of ecosystems.
An example of holism in environmentalism is the concept of ecosystem services. Ecosystem
services are the benefits that humans derive from ecosystems, such as clean air and water,
food, and medicine. Holism recognizes that these ecosystem services are not just the result
of individual species or natural resources, but are the result of the complex interactions
between all living organisms and their environment. By protecting ecosystems and the
species that inhabit them, we can ensure the continued provision of these important
services.
In summary, holism is an important principle in environmentalism that recognizes the
interconnectedness and interdependence of all living organisms and their environment. By
adopting a holistic perspective, we can better understand the complex relationships and
feedback loops that exist within ecosystems and work to protect them for future generations.

3. Sustainability
Sustainability is based on a simple principle: Everything that we need for our survival and
well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment. To pursue
sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can
exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations.
Sustainability is the principle in environmentalism that emphasises the importance of
meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to
meet their own needs. This principle recognizes that humans are dependent on natural
resources and that we must manage them in a way that is sustainable and does not harm
the environment.
Arguments for sustainability in environmentalism include the following:
1. Resource management: Sustainability requires us to manage natural resources in a
way that allows them to regenerate and replenish over time. This means using
resources such as water, forests, and fish stocks in a way that does not deplete
them.
2. Climate change: Sustainability requires us to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions
to mitigate the impacts of climate change. This includes transitioning to renewable
 energy sources, such as wind and solar power, and reducing our reliance on fossil
fuels.
3. Biodiversity: Sustainability requires us to protect biodiversity and prevent the loss of
species and ecosystems. This means preserving natural habitats and protecting
endangered species.
An example of sustainability in environmentalism is the concept of sustainable agriculture.
Sustainable agriculture involves using farming practices that are environmentally
responsible, socially just, and economically viable. This includes practices such as crop
rotation, organic farming, and conservation tillage. By adopting sustainable agriculture
practices, farmers can reduce their impact on the environment while still producing food for a
growing population.
Another example of sustainability in environmentalism is the use of green building practices.
Green building practices involve designing and constructing buildings in a way that is
environmentally responsible and resource-efficient. This includes using materials that are
locally sourced and renewable, incorporating energy-efficient features, and minimising waste
during construction.
In summary, sustainability is an important principle in environmentalism that emphasises the
need to manage natural resources in a way that allows us to meet our needs while
protecting the environment for future generations. By adopting sustainable practices in
agriculture, construction, and other areas, we can work towards a more sustainable future
for ourselves and for the planet.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member
States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the
planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a
global partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go
hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur
economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and
forests
Sustainable development is a concept that seeks to meet the needs of the present
generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It
recognizes that economic development, social development, and environmental protection
are interdependent and mutually reinforcing pillars of sustainable development.
At its core, sustainable development is about creating a world where everyone can live a
dignified life, with access to the resources they need to thrive, without degrading the natural
systems that support life on Earth. This means promoting economic growth that is inclusive
and equitable, reducing poverty and inequality, and ensuring that economic activities do not
harm the environment or contribute to climate change.
Sustainable development also requires a commitment to social progress, including access to
education, healthcare, and social protection systems. It recognizes that social development
is essential for creating a fair and just society and that it is a critical factor in promoting
economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Need for Sustainable Development-

 1. Environmental protection: Sustainable development is needed to protect the
environment and prevent the depletion of natural resources. It promotes the
conservation of natural resources, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and
the protection of biodiversity.
2. Economic growth: Sustainable development is essential for promoting inclusive and
equitable economic growth that benefits everyone, not just a privileged few. It creates
opportunities for decent work, entrepreneurship, and innovation, and helps to reduce
poverty and inequality.
3. Social progress: Sustainable development recognizes that social progress is
essential for creating a fair and just society. It promotes access to education,
healthcare, and social protection systems, and ensures that marginalised groups are
not left behind.
4. Climate change: Sustainable development is crucial for addressing the challenges
posed by climate change. It promotes the transition to a low-carbon,
resource-efficient economy that is resilient to the impacts of climate change.
5. Future generations: Sustainable development ensures that we meet the needs of the
present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet
their own needs. It recognizes that economic, social, and environmental goals are
interdependent and mutually reinforcing, and that we must balance them to ensure a
sustainable future for all.
In summary, sustainable development is essential for protecting the environment, promoting
economic growth, ensuring social progress, addressing climate change, and securing a
sustainable future for all.

Sustainable Development Goals-

SDG 1 aims to end poverty in all its forms by addressing economic, social, and
environmental factors. This requires promoting economic growth, creating decent jobs,
expanding access to education and healthcare, and implementing social protection systems.
To achieve this goal, governments, businesses, and civil society must work together to
create an enabling environment that promotes sustainable economic development and
reduces inequalities. The future plans include continued investment in infrastructure,
education, and healthcare, as well as the promotion of inclusive and sustainable growth. It
will also require increasing awareness about poverty and the need for collective action to
address it.
SDG 13 aims to combat climate change and its impacts by taking urgent action to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and build resilience to climate-related hazards. Strategies include
transitioning to renewable energy sources, promoting sustainable transport, reducing
deforestation, and building climate-resilient infrastructure. Achieving this goal requires
creating awareness about climate change, supporting research and development of new
technologies, and providing financial resources to developing countries. Collaboration across
sectors and industries is essential for promoting sustainable practices and ensuring a
sustainable future for all.
SDG 16, or Sustainable Development Goal 16, aims to promote peaceful and inclusive
societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective,
accountable, and inclusive institutions. It recognizes that peace, stability, and good
governance are essential for achieving sustainable development and reducing poverty. This
goal seeks to reduce violence and corruption, promote the rule of law, increase access to
justice, and ensure that institutions are transparent and accountable. Achieving SDG 16 will
contribute to promoting prosperity and reducing inequality, creating a more stable and
peaceful world by 2030