Unit V: Environmental Management & Sustainable Development (6)

 Environmental protection, management and legislation in India; Key international

environmental treaties and policies.
 Sustainable development concepts: Tragedy of commons; UN-Sustainable
Development Goals; Environmental Education; Nature-friendly lifestyle and nature-
based solutions.

Environmental protection is the practice of protecting the natural environment from damage
and degradation by individuals, groups and governments. Its objectives are to conserve
natural resources and the existing natural environment and, where it is possible, to repair
damage and reverse trends.
For environmental management India adopts a multi-pronged approach, including:
i. Resource Management: Programs for water conservation, renewable energy promotion, and
sustainable agriculture.
ii. Institutional Frameworks: Agencies like the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to
monitor and manage environmental issues.
iii. Community Participation: Reforestation and forest management to gain forest resources
and balance conservation objectives with fulfilment of livelihood needs. School gardens and
composting programs to reduce waste and promote organic farming. Encouraging
communities for walking, biking, using public transportation, and carpooling. Initiatives like
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan promoting cleanliness and waste management.

Legislation in India related to Environmental Protection

India’s Constitution highlights environmental protection under Articles 48A and 51A(g),
which encourage the state and citizens to protect the environment and safeguard natural
resources. Various initiatives focus on afforestation, wildlife conservation, and pollution
control.
Articles 48A: The State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to
safeguard the forests and wild life of the country. [Directive Principle of State Policy]
51A(g): It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural
environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life, and to have compassion for living
creatures. [Fundamental duties of citizens]

List of Environmental Laws in India

India has enacted various laws to regulate and protect the environment, conserve natural
resources, and ensure sustainable development.

Below is a list of key environmental laws in the country:

General Environmental Protection Laws
Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: Provides a comprehensive framework for
environmental protection and pollution control.
National Green Tribunal Act, 2010: Establishes the National Green Tribunal for effective
adjudication of environmental disputes and enforcement of legal rights related to the
environment.

Pollution Control Laws

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974: Prevents water pollution and
ensures the maintenance of water quality.
Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: Regulates air pollution by controlling
industrial and vehicular emissions.
Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000: Establishes standards to control
noise pollution from industrial and community sources.

Wildlife and Forest Protection Laws

Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Protects wildlife and their habitats, including establishing
national parks and sanctuaries.
Forest Conservation Act, 1980: Regulates the diversion of forest land for non-forest
purposes and promotes afforestation.
Indian Forest Act, 1927: Governs the use and conservation of forests and forest produce.

Waste Management Laws

Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989: Manages and regulates
hazardous waste.
Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016: Deals with the segregation, treatment, and
disposal of biomedical waste.
E-Waste Management Rules, 2016: Regulates the disposal and recycling of electronic
waste.
Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016: Focuses on the reduction and recycling of plastic
waste.

Climate and Energy Laws

Energy Conservation Act, 2001: Promotes energy efficiency and conservation.
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Act, 1987: Supports the development and
financing of renewable energy projects.

Coastal and Marine Protection Laws

Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011: Regulates human activities in coastal
areas to prevent degradation.

Mining and Land Use Laws

Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957: Regulates mining
operations and ensures sustainable use of mineral resources.
Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991: Provides immediate relief to persons affected by
accidents in handling hazardous substances.

India has enacted several laws to regulate and protect the environment:

Indian Forest Act, 1927

The Indian Forest Act, 1927, provides a legal framework for the protection, management,
and sustainable use of forests and forest resources in India. Key features include:

 Classification of Forests: Divides forests into Reserved Forests, Protected Forests,

and Village Forests, each with specific rules for use and protection.
 Regulation of Forest Produce: Controls the harvesting, movement, and trade of
forest produce.
 Penalties for Violations: Imposes fines and imprisonment for illegal activities such
as poaching, logging, or encroachment on forest lands.
 Power to Government: Empowers the government to notify forest areas and manage
resources sustainably.

The Act plays a significant role in conserving India’s forests and biodiversity while balancing
local needs.

Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, is a comprehensive law enacted by the Government of
India to protect wildlife, control hunting and poaching, and preserve biodiversity. It aims to
safeguard the ecological balance by ensuring the survival of endangered species and their
habitats. It forced government for the establishment of National Parks, Sanctuaries,
Conservation Reserves, and Community Reserves to protect wildlife habitats. The violations
of this law can lead to imprisonment, fines, or both, depending on the schedule and severity
of the offense.

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

It is India’s first major law enacted to address water pollution and ensure the preservation of
water quality. The Act aims to prevent and control water pollution by regulating the
discharge of pollutants into water bodies and promoting sustainable water management
practices.

 Establishment of Pollution Control Boards: Created the Central Pollution Control

Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to monitor, prevent, and
control water pollution. Pollution control boards have the authority to inspect
facilities, collect samples, and take legal action against offenders.
 Prevention of Pollution: Prohibits the discharge of harmful pollutants into water
bodies without prior consent from SPCBs.
 Regulation of Industrial Discharge: Industries must adhere to specific effluent
standards before releasing wastewater into water bodies. Imposes fines and
imprisonment for those who pollute water bodies or violate the provisions of the Act.
The Act is a cornerstone of water resource conservation in India, ensuring that water remains
clean and safe for consumption, agriculture, and industry. It also promotes the sustainable
development of water resources while addressing the growing challenges of industrialization
and urbanization.

Forest Conservation Act, 1980

The Forest Conservation Act, 1980, was passed to regulate the use of forest land and curb
deforestation in India. It aims to conserve forests and ensure the sustainable use of forest
resources for ecological balance and biodiversity preservation.

 Restriction on Forest Land Use: Prohibits the diversion of forest land for non-forest
purposes (e.g., agriculture, industry) without prior approval from the central
government.
 Compensatory Afforestation: Mandates that any approved diversion of forest land
must be accompanied by afforestation on an equivalent area of non-forest land.
Establishes committees to evaluate proposals for the diversion of forest land and
provide recommendations to the government. Imposes fines and legal action for
unauthorized use or destruction of forest land.

The Act plays a crucial role in preserving India’s forests, mitigating climate change, and
protecting the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. It ensures that development
projects are balanced with environmental conservation.

Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, was enacted to address air pollution
in India and preserve air quality. It seeks to prevent, control, and reduce pollution caused by
industrial emissions, vehicles, and other sources.

 Established the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control
Boards (SPCBs) to monitor and regulate air quality.
 Mandates industries to obtain consent from SPCBs before discharging emissions into
the atmosphere. Provides for fines and imprisonment for non-compliance with the
Act’s provisions.

The Act is pivotal in tackling air pollution and safeguarding public health and the
environment. It provides a framework to regulate industrial and vehicular emissions and
promotes cleaner technologies.

Environment Protection Act, 1986

The Environment Protection Act, 1986, is a comprehensive legislation enacted in India to

provide a framework for the protection and improvement of the environment. It was
introduced in response to the Bhopal Gas Tragedy of 1984 and aims to prevent environmental
degradation and ensure public safety.
Umbrella Legislation: Serves as an overarching law, integrating and strengthening previous
environmental laws, including those addressing air, water, and wildlife conservation.

Power to the Central Government: Grants the central government authority to regulate
industrial operations, hazardous waste, and emissions to protect the environment.

Environmental Standards: Prescribes standards for air, water, and soil quality and controls the
handling of hazardous substances.

Pollution Control Measures: Empowers authorities to close, restrict, or regulate industries

causing environmental harm. Imposes stringent penalties, including fines and imprisonment,
for non-compliance with the Act’s provisions.

The Act provides a robust legal framework to address environmental challenges and
promotes sustainable development. It underpins India’s commitment to environmental
conservation and plays a vital role in implementing international agreements like the
Stockholm Conference and the Paris Agreement.

Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989

The Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989 regulate the management,
handling, and disposal of hazardous waste in India to prevent environmental contamination
and public health risks. Key features include:

 Definition of Hazardous Waste: Specifies types of waste that are toxic, flammable,
or reactive, requiring special handling and disposal methods.
 Waste Management Standards: Sets guidelines for the safe storage, transportation,
and treatment of hazardous waste.
 Authorization and Licensing: Requires industries to obtain permits from authorities
for handling hazardous waste.
 Monitoring and Reporting: Obligates waste generators to maintain records and
report waste disposal to pollution control boards.

These rules aim to minimize environmental damage and ensure the safe disposal of hazardous
materials.

Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000

The Noise Pollution Rules, 2000, aim to regulate and control noise pollution to maintain
ambient air quality standards. Key features include:

 Classification of areas into industrial, commercial, residential, and silent zones,

each with specific noise limits.
 Restriction on the use of loudspeakers and sound-producing equipment, especially
between 10 PM and 6 AM.
  Provision for state authorities to monitor and enforce rules, with penalties for
violations.

These rules address public health concerns and ensure a quieter and healthier living
environment.

National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) Act, 2010 established the National Green Tribunal to
handle environmental disputes and enforce legal rights related to the environment. Key
features include:

 Fast-Track Justice: Provides a dedicated platform for the swift resolution of

environmental cases, ensuring timely justice in matters related to environmental
protection and conservation.
 Specialized Tribunal: Composed of experts in environmental law, science, and
policy, the NGT ensures informed decision-making.
 Appeals and Enforcement: Handles appeals against decisions of authorities and can
issue orders for compensation or remediation of environmental harm.
 Focus on Public Interest: Enables individuals, communities, and organizations to
approach the tribunal for addressing environmental issues.

The NGT plays a crucial role in strengthening environmental governance and upholding the
right to a healthy environment in India.

Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016

The Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016, regulate the collection, segregation,
storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal of bio-medical waste in India to prevent
environmental contamination and protect public health. Key features include:

 Waste Segregation: Mandates the segregation of bio-medical waste into categories

like infectious, non-infectious, and hazardous.
 Treatment and Disposal: Specifies methods for the safe treatment and disposal of
medical waste, including incineration, autoclaving, or deep burial.
 Authorization and Compliance: Requires healthcare facilities to obtain
authorization from state pollution control boards and comply with safety norms.
 Record Keeping: Obligates healthcare establishments to maintain records of waste
generation, treatment, and disposal.

These rules aim to minimize the risk of infection, ensure safe waste disposal, and promote
environmental sustainability in healthcare settings.

E-Waste Management Rules, 2016

The E-Waste Management Rules, 2016, regulate the collection, disposal, and recycling of
electronic waste (e-waste) in India to prevent environmental pollution and safeguard public
health. Key features include:

 Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Obligates producers to take

responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, including collection and
recycling of e-waste.
 E-Waste Segregation: Requires the segregation of e-waste at the source (e.g.,
households, businesses) to ensure safe recycling and disposal.
 Recycling and Disposal Standards: Sets guidelines for the environmentally safe
recycling, refurbishment, and disposal of e-waste.
 Authorization and Monitoring: Mandates registration for e-waste recyclers and
treatment facilities, with regular monitoring by state authorities.

These rules aim to reduce the environmental impact of e-waste, promote recycling, and
prevent hazardous substances from polluting the environment.

Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016

The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, regulate the collection, segregation, recycling,
and disposal of plastic waste in India to reduce environmental pollution caused by plastic.
Key features include:

 Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Requires producers, importers, and

brand owners to take responsibility for managing plastic waste generated from their
products, including take-back systems.
 Ban on Single-Use Plastics: Encourages the reduction, reuse, and recycling of
plastic, with a focus on phasing out single-use plastics.
 Plastic Waste Collection and Segregation: Mandates proper collection, segregation,
and recycling of plastic waste by municipal authorities and waste management
agencies.
 Awareness and Enforcement: Promotes public awareness campaigns and enforces
compliance through penalties for non-compliance.

These rules aim to minimize plastic waste, promote sustainable alternatives, and reduce the
adverse environmental impacts of plastic pollution.

Key international environmental treaties and policies

Treaties: Treaties are legally binding once they are ratified by the countries involved. If a
country fails to uphold its commitments under a treaty, it may face legal consequences.

Environmental Policies: Policies are typically non-binding or may only be partially binding,
serving as a guide for actions. However, policies may lead to the creation of laws or
regulations that are legally enforceable.
International environmental treaties and policies are legally binding agreements between
countries to work together in tackling global environmental issues such as climate change,
loss of biodiversity, pollution, and waste, both at the global and regional levels.

Here is a list of key international environmental treaties and policies that address various
global environmental challenges:

1. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), 1992

 Purpose: To combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and
supporting sustainable development.
 Key Outcome: Led to the Kyoto Protocol (1997) and the Paris Agreement (2015).

2. Paris Agreement, 2015

 Purpose: To limit global warming to below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C, compared to
pre-industrial levels, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
 Key Feature: Nationally determined contributions (NDCs) for each country to cut
emissions.

3. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), 1992

 Purpose: To conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable use of biological resources,
and ensure fair sharing of benefits from genetic resources.
 Key Outcome: The Nagoya Protocol (2010) for fair access and benefit-sharing of
biodiversity resources.

4. Kyoto Protocol, 1997

 Purpose: To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement binding targets for
industrialized countries.
 Key Feature: Introduced mechanisms such as carbon trading and clean development.

5. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), 2001

 Purpose: To eliminate or restrict the use of persistent organic pollutants (harmful
chemicals).
 Key Feature: Bans or reduces harmful chemicals like DDT and PCBs in the
environment.

6. Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, 1987

 Purpose: To protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption
of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).
 Key Outcome: Successfully led to the reduction of ozone-depleting chemicals and
recovery of the ozone layer.

7. Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, 1971

 Purpose: To conserve wetlands of international importance and ensure their
sustainable use.
  Key Feature: Designates wetlands as Ramsar Sites to protect biodiversity.

8. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

(CITES), 1973
 Purpose: To ensure that international trade in wild animals and plants does not
threaten their survival.
 Key Feature: Regulates and monitors trade in endangered species through a permit
system.

9. The Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, 1992

 Purpose: To promote sustainable development and environmental protection at the
global level.
 Key Outcome: The Agenda 21 for action on global environmental issues.

10. Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous

Wastes and Their Disposal, 1989
 Purpose: To minimize the movement of hazardous waste between countries,
especially from developed to developing nations.
 Key Feature: Provides guidelines on the environmentally sound disposal of
hazardous waste.

11. Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, 2000

 Purpose: To ensure safe handling, transport, and use of genetically modified
organisms (GMOs).
 Key Feature: Regulates GMOs' movement across borders, ensuring safety for
biodiversity.

12. The Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), 1994

 Purpose: To combat desertification and land degradation, particularly in Africa.
 Key Feature: Promotes sustainable land management and reforestation efforts.

13. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs), 2015

 Purpose: A global framework with 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to
promote economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
 Key Feature: SDG 13 specifically focuses on climate action, while other goals relate
to water, energy, and life on land and water.

These treaties and policies play a crucial role in addressing global environmental issues by
promoting cooperation, setting international standards, and encouraging nations to take
collective action.

Sustainable development

Tragedy of commons
The Tragedy of the Commons refers to a situation where individuals, acting in their own
self-interest, exploit a shared resource to the point of depletion, even though it is in
everyone's long-term interest to conserve it.

The term was popularized by the economist Garrett Hardin in 1968, describing how
common resources, like air, water, or grazing land, can be overused when there is no
regulation or collective management. Each person benefits from using the resource, but the
cumulative effect of everyone using it unsustainably leads to its degradation, harming all
parties involved in the long run.

UN-Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global goals

aimed at addressing pressing challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change,

environmental degradation, peace, and justice. Adopted in 2015 by all UN member states, the

SDGs are part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with the goal of creating a

better, more sustainable world for all by the year 2030.

The SDGs are interlinked, meaning progress in one goal often supports progress in others.
They encourage nations, businesses, and individuals to act collectively to tackle the world's
most significant issues while ensuring that no one is left behind.

Environmental Education

Environmental Education is a key concept of sustainable development that focuses on

teaching people about the environment and how human activities impact it.

It aims to raise awareness, develop knowledge, and encourage positive behaviours toward the
environment.

The goal is to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions that
contribute to environmental protection, conservation, and sustainability.

Key elements include:

 Awareness of environmental issues like pollution, climate change, and resource

depletion.
 Knowledge about ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable practices.
 Skills to help individuals take action to reduce their environmental impact, such as
recycling or conserving water.
  Attitudes that promote respect for nature and sustainable living.

Environmental education is essential in fostering a generation that understands the

importance of maintaining balance between human development and the health of the planet.

Nature-friendly lifestyle and nature-based solutions

Nature-friendly Lifestyle and Nature-based Solutions are important concepts in

sustainable development that emphasize living in harmony with the environment and using
natural processes to solve environmental challenges.

Nature-friendly Lifestyle

A nature-friendly lifestyle involves making everyday choices that reduce harm to the
environment and promote sustainability. This can include:

 Reducing consumption: Buying fewer, more sustainable products to limit waste.

 Conserving energy: Using renewable energy sources and reducing energy
consumption.
 Waste reduction: Recycling, composting, and minimizing single-use plastics.
 Sustainable transport: Using public transportation, cycling, or walking instead of
driving.
 Supporting eco-friendly practices: Choosing organic, locally sourced food and
supporting sustainable businesses.

Adopting a nature-friendly lifestyle helps reduce human impact on ecosystems and

encourages the protection of biodiversity.

Nature-based Solutions (NbS)

Nature-based solutions involve using natural processes and ecosystems to address

environmental challenges, such as climate change, water management, and biodiversity loss.
These solutions work with nature, rather than against it, to provide sustainable benefits.
Examples include:

 Forest restoration to combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide.

 Wetland protection for flood management and water purification.
 Green urban infrastructure, like parks and green roofs, to reduce heat and improve
air quality in cities.
 Coastal restoration, such as mangrove planting, to protect shorelines from erosion
and storms.

Nature-based solutions not only help solve environmental problems but also provide long-
term, cost-effective, and resilient benefits for communities. They highlight the importance of
maintaining the natural systems that support life on Earth.