Environmental Concerns and Management (Semester-I)

Unit II Environmental Governance and Management

Environmental Management: Concept

According to the United Nations report on Development and Environment 1972,
“Environmental Management covers functions designed to facilitate comprehensive
planning that takes into account the side effects of man’s activities and thereby protects
and improves the human environment for the present and future generations.”
Environmental management is not “management of the environment.” It means managing
our activities consciously within the limits set by the environment with ecological care in
mind.
Environmental management is the optimal utilization of the finite resources
between different possible uses and at the same time demand that such an allocation is
efficient. Management of the environment is achieving the well-being of all who are a part
of this environment not only in the present but also in the future.
Thus, Environmental Management refers to all the systematic planned efforts by the policy
makers directed towards;
• Regulating and managing the utilization of natural resources
• Minimizing irreversible damages to the environment through all types of human
activities and
• Measures undertaken to regulate the ongoing activities in different areas.
Optimal use of resources with foresight has to be the guiding principle in environmental
management with the objective of achieving human welfare and environmental quality at the
same time. The task of environmental manager will therefore be to bring into focus the
limited availability of the material resources – renewable and non-renewable – and therefore
the question of how we need to balance our needs amongst all of us.
A sound environment management calls not for just a balanced and effective use of
existing resources, revised terms of trade, debt relief for poor countries and tackling issues
like preserving biodiversity, but also generating sensitivity and a responsible awareness in the
present generation.

Need for Environmental Management

Emergence of modern industrial era has disturbed the ecological balance through heavy
industrialization, technological revolution, fast growth of means of transportation,
materialistic exploitation of resources, unplanned urbanization etc. The anthropogenic
activities have disturbed the harmonious relationships between the environment and human
beings. If the natural resources are overexploited, it will affect socio-economic development
of a nation.
 Environmental stress is becoming severe day by day. Degradation of environment
poses a serious threat to humanity. Humanity is on the crossroad to find solutions to the
environmental problems created by local, national and global developmental activities. For
this we need to recognise the impact of human actions on environment and the measures to
minimize and mitigate them. The administrators and policy makers responsible for designing,
planning and implementation should show an environmental responsibility. Their actions
should address the environmental issues along with economic viability and technical
feasibility.
Following points stress the need for environmental management
1 For efficient use of resources - Resources are limited, if we don't use them properly,
they will get exhausted very soon. For appropriate and reasonable use of resources,
environment management is necessary.
2 To overcome environmental and ecology crisis - The present development has
reached a point where environment and ecology are in critical state, if the same has to
continue, then it will create a disastrous effect on the environment. The whole earth’s
ecological balance will be destroyed.
3 To reduce disasters - Environmental Management reduces the risk of disasters like
flooding, forest fire, earthquakes, desertification, transport accidents, Global warming,
etc. We need to explore the link between environmental system and disasters and
also the synergies between man-made and natural disasters.
4 To decide the limits to growth-Environmental Management is essential to draw a line
of limit for development. E.g., If our development needs to lead to global warming or
depletion of the ozone layer, then we must not use the materials, and modify our
ways of development. We may adopt the policy of afforestation.
5 For sustainable development - Environmental management is required for
development without destruction or overuse of natural resources and to reduce
pollution and degradation of nature. Considering the welfare of future generations,
proper decisions regarding use of environment are necessary.

Approaches to Environmental Management

Proper utilisation of resources is the prime objective of environmental management
conservation. In the World Conservation Strategy (1980), the three main objectives of
Environment Management stated were;
 the maintenance of essential ecological processes,
 the preservation of genetic diversity, and
 the sustainable utilisation of natural resources
Keeping in view the above objectives, the most common approach to environmental
management is a Conservative Approach which states that there should not be
overexploitation of nature and conservation of natural resources is essential for sustainable
development.
 In recent years, several approaches have been developed for the management of
environment. Regional planners often adopt a human ecology approach, while other planners
suggest a system analysis or an ecosystem approach.
The various approaches developed for the environmental management are:
i. Ad hoc approach- developed in reaction to a specific situation. Using this approach, an
organization may conduct special surveys and studies to deal with specific
environmental issues from time to time. E.g. addressing the problem of flooding of
parts of Mumbai during monsoon.
ii. Problem-solving approach: Adopted for identification of problems and needs and
then implementing solutions. It requires designing an action plan, implementation and
then evaluation of the same. E.g. – addressing the problem of water scarcity in villages
with implementation of rainwater harvesting techniques. These techniques involve
collecting and storing water for future use or recharging underground water.
iii. Systems approach: such as ecosystem, agro-ecosystem, etc. E.g., addressing the
problems like salinization of soil in the state of Punjab is an example of agro-
ecosystem approach. Some measures could be use of drip irrigation or sprinklers that
can help the locals with water and soil management
iv. Regional approach: based on ecological zones such as watershed, river basin, coastal
zone, island, etc. E.g., addressing the environmental issues faced by the coastal areas
like pollution caused due to litter caused by visitors, flooding etc.
v. Specialist discipline approach, often adopted by professionals for air, water and land
management, urban management, tourism management, and environmental health.
E.g. – Measures taken by Delhi government to curb the air pollution in the National
Capital Region like odd and even policy for vehicles, replacing the diesel run buses
with a fleet of CNG buses etc.
vi. Voluntary approach: Voluntary approach is taking environmental responsibility
whereby firms make commitments to improve their environmental performance
beyond legal requirements. The Orchid Ecotel has adopted several environment
friendly practices voluntarily such as composting wet waste, recycling water,
supplementing energy requirement through solar power generation etc. which has
earned the hotel Ecotel certification.
vii. Commercial approach: Adopted by industry and business to ensure environmental
objectives are implemented and followed. WIPRO is an energy and water efficient
company. It is also into pollution and waste management
viii. Human ecology approach - The main emphasis in this approach is on man-
environment relationship which is a primary aspect of any management for planning
and development. Governments need to adopt this approach while implementing
development projects like construction of dams, power plants, infrastructure projects.
Development and ecological care should go hand in hand. It is the responsibility of the
local governing body that the benefits of development should be distributed
equitably.
 ix. Political ecology approach- to develop policies and laws for use of resources and
protection of resources. This approach involves the legislations, regulations, policies
through which government agencies can control, regulate and manage the activities.

Integrated Approach to Environmental Management

The best approach to environmental management is an integrated approach in which all the
components of the environment are taken into consideration and its proper management, as
a whole, is done. It is designed to ensure that an environmental policy and environmental
objectives are adopted and followed by industries and other organizations.
EMS approach helps organisations to:
1. Develop a proactive environmental approach;
2. Ensure a balanced view across all functions;
3. Enable effective, directed environmental goal setting; and
4. Make the environmental auditing process effective
While adopting Integrated environmental management following aspects must be taken
into account;
A. Perception and awareness of environment in planning
B. Environmental education and training at school, college and university levels - about
conservation and proper utilisation of natural and human resources
C. Assessment of the impact of industrial and technological developments on
environment - Environmental Impact Assessment
D. Control over environmental degradation and pollution – monitoring of activities,
pollution control, repairing the damages caused to the environment
The institutional framework that exists for environmental management broadly refers to the
government institutions, non-government institutions, and other autonomous bodies that
collectively contribute to the overall objective of managing the environment.

Environmental Governance
Environmental governance refers to the set of regulatory processes, mechanisms and
organizations through which government & non-government agencies influence
environmental actions and outcomes. Environmental governance is synonymous with
interventions aiming at changes in environment-related incentives, knowledge, institutions,
decision making, and behaviours. (Source: Lemos, Maria & Agrawal, Arun. (2008). Environmental
Governance. Annual Review of Environment and Resources, 31.10.1146/annurev.energy.31.042605.135621)
Governance is not the same as government. It includes the actions of the government at
different levels and, in addition, encompasses actors such as communities, businesses, and
NGOs. 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. The decentralisation of decision-making powers from governments,
downwards towards local institutions, NGOs and communities, is an important feature of the
environmental governance approach because it is intended to improve accountability,
accessibility, and a voice for local people and their representatives (Batterbury and Fernando,
2006).
Environmental Governance comprises the rules, practices, policies and institutions that
shape how humans interact with the environment. International agreements, national
policies and legislation, local decision-making structures, transnational institutions, and
environmental NGOs are all examples of the forms through which environmental governance
takes place. The main role of government institutions and agencies is to ensure compliance
with law and regulations.
The term ‘good governance’ typically refers to a set of public sector reforms designed to
attain positive, lasting changes in accordance with key governance principles (Batterbury and
Fernando, 2006). Effective environmental governance at all levels is critical for finding solutions
to the challenges such as air pollution, water pollution and biodiversity loss etc. To achieve
their environmental commitments and goals, countries need strong legislative, political and
judicial systems. The mobilization of individual incentives and their incorporation into
innovative strategies of environmental governance is essential for efficient governance.
However, effective environmental governance also requires the incorporation of knowledge
about restrictions on human activities that rely on high intensities of resource exploitation or
lead to high levels of pollutant emissions. In designing and assessing strategies of
environmental governance, it is critical therefore to focus not just on efficiency and equity,
but also on criteria related to long-term sustainability and a concern for nature.

Tools or mechanisms with government for regulating the environmental

behaviour of industries, corporations, organisations and society, such as:
1. International conventions and treaties – There is an increasing concern
internationally about mitigation of several global and regional environmental issues,
which can be attained through cooperation among the countries. India is party to
many such international agreements concerning the management of the environment.
Some of the important agreements are as follows:
 The Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar Convention, 1971)
 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild fauna and
flora (CITES), 1973
 Basel Convention on Trans-Boundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes, 1989
 UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), 1992
 Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992 (CBD)

2. Environmental legislations – Environmental legislation refers to the body of laws and

regulations designed to protect the environment and manage its resources. Since
1970s an extensive network of environmental legislation has grown in the country.
Some of the important legislations are The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972; The Water
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974; The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980;
 The Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution Act, 1981; The Environment (Protection)
Act, 1986

3. Regulations –
From time to time the central government of India, issues notifications under the
Environment Protection Act, 1986 for the protection of ecologically-sensitive areas or
issues guidelines for matters under the EPA. Some of the important regulations are;
o Coastal Regulation Zone Notification (1991), which regulates activities along
coastal stretches.
o The Environmental Impact Assessment of Development Projects Notification,
1994 and amended in 1997.
o Taj Trapezium Notification (1998), provided that no power plant could be set
up within the geographical limit of the Taj Trapezium assigned by the Taj
Trapezium Zone Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority.

4. Policies & Programs –

Governments formulate national and sector policies, often in the form of strategies,
development plans and action plans. It is a good practice to involve different
stakeholders and interest groups in the process of designing policy to ensure that all
important issues are considered and policies are built on comprehensive
understanding of stakeholders. Some Policies to protect environment in India
National Water Policy, 1987, National Forest Policy of 1988, National Environment
Policy, 2006
Since the enforcement of the Environment (Protection) Act in 1986, the Government
of India has launched programs for conservation of natural resources and biodiversity.
Some of the programmes and schemes undertaken by the GoI towards a greener
and cleaner nation are; Swachh Bharat Abhiyan; Namami Gange Programme; National
Clean Air Programme; Jal Jeevan Mission; Nagar Van Scheme

5. Permits –
Depending on the type of activities undertaken by a company, multiple permits may
need to be obtained. The key environmental permits must be obtained from the local
State Pollution Control Board (SPCB). Consent to Establish (CTE) and subsequent
Consent to Operate (CTO) and their renewals under the Water Act and Air Act can
typically be obtained by submitting a combined consent application to the relevant
SPCB.
The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) classifies
industries into Red, Orange, Green, and White categories based on their Pollution
Index (PI) scores.
o Red category industries, with a PI of 60 and above (e.g., asbestos, nuclear
power plants, shipbreaking), are the most polluting.
 o Orange category, with scores from 41 to 59, includes sectors like food
processing, printing ink, and pharmaceuticals.
o Green category industries, scoring 21 to 40, cover activities like saw mills and
plastic products.
o White category industries, with a PI up to 20, are considered non-polluting and
only need to notify the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) without requiring
Consent to Operate or Environmental Clearance.
Location restrictions for industries in India –
In India, industrial licenses are regulated by the Industries (Development and
Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 Under this provision, industries located within 25
kilometres of the periphery of cities having a population of at least one million, must
obtain an industrial license from the government. The location of industrial units is
subject to appropriate local zoning, land use regulations, as well as environmental
regulations in order to maintain ecological discipline.

6. Environmental Auditing
Environmental auditing involves a systematic assessment of an organization's
environmental performance. It focuses on ensuring compliance with environmental
regulations, identifying areas for improvement, and quantifying environmental
impacts. By providing objective evidence and promoting accountability, environmental
audits support stronger and more effective environmental governance systems.
An environmental audit serves as a tool to evaluate whether an organization is
meeting its environmental responsibilities. For example, a legislative compliance audit
examines whether a company's activities comply with applicable environmental laws
and regulations. Similarly, an audit may assess whether an organization's waste
management practices align with the industry sector's best practice guidelines it has
committed to follow.

In addition, there are two other instruments of environmental governance;

a Economic instruments - environmental charges, taxes and emission trading
schemes
b Voluntary instruments such as: Environmental Management Systems (EMS) that
allows an organization to systematically manage its environmental and health
safety matters.

Institutional Framework for Environmental Governance in India

The environmental governance in post-independent India started with setting up of the
Central Pollution Control Board in 1972 followed by the state boards. The department of
environment came into existence on November 1, 1980 which later evolved into a full-fledged
Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) in 1985 which today is the apex administrative
body in the country for planning, regulating and coordinating all environmental activities.
Since the 1970s an extensive network of environmental legislation has grown in the country.
The MoEF and the Pollution Control Boards (CPCB i.e., Central Pollution Control Board and
SPCBs i.e., State Pollution Control Boards) together form the regulatory and administrative
core of the environmental governance along with the local governing bodies.

Role of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change

(MoEF & CC) in Environmental Governance in India
The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF), Government of India started functioning from
4th January, 1985. The Ministry of Environment & Forests known as Ministry of Environment,
Forest & Climate Change (MoEF & CC) since 2014 is the nodal agency in the administrative
structure of the Central Government, for the planning, promotion, co-ordination and
overseeing the implementation of environmental and forestry programmes and policies.
The broad Objectives of MoEF & CC are:
 Conservation and survey of flora and fauna, forests and other wilderness areas
 Prevention and control of pollution
 Afforestation and regeneration of degraded land
 Protection of the environment
 Ensuring welfare of animals and
 research related to these activities
The main tools utilized to attain these objectives, include;
Surveys, Impact Assessment, control of pollution, regeneration programmes, support to
organizations, research to solve problems relating to environment and provide training to
enlarge the requisite manpower, collection and dissemination of environmental information
and creation of environmental awareness among all sectors of society in the country.
Primary concerns of MoEF & CC
 Implementation of policies and programmes relating to conservation of natural
resources of the country (including its lakes and rivers, biodiversity, forests and
wildlife),
 ensuring the welfare of animals and the prevention and abatement of pollution

While implementing these policies and programmes, MoEF & CC is guided by the principle of
sustainable development and enhancement of human well-being. These objectives are well
supported by a set of legislative and regulatory measures, aimed at the preservation,
conservation and protection of the environment. Besides the legislative measures (Acts), a
National Conservation Strategy and Policy Statement on Environment and Development,
1992, National Forest Policy, 1988, a Policy Statement on Abatement of Pollution, 1992 and a
National Environment Policy, 2006 has also been evolved.
The Ministry also serves as the nodal agency in the country for the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP), South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP),
and International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and for follow-up of
the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED).
The Ministry is also entrusted with the issues relating to multilateral bodies such as the
Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD), Global Environment Facility (GEF) and of
regional bodies like Economic and Social Council for Asia and Pacific (ESCAP) and South Asian
Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) on matters pertaining to environment.
The organizational structure of the Ministry covers number of Divisions, Directorate,
Board, Subordinate Offices, Autonomous Institutions, and Public Sector Undertaking.

Environmental Committee
The MoEF & CC has published a Resolution that in every district a District Environmental
Committee shall be constituted for advising the state government on district level matters of
environmental protection and pollution control.
The committee undertake the following programmes;
• To plan environmental awareness campaign in the district
• To make recommendations to the state government on Action Plan based on a district
level review of environmental problems
• To coordinate activities of agriculture, irrigation and animal husbandry
• To prepare a District Environmental Status Report
An industry can take help of this Committee by adopting a right approach to see if some of its
problems can get a solution at the district level itself.

Role of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in Environmental

Governance in India
Central Pollution Control Board is the national apex body for assessment, monitoring, and
control of water and air pollution. CPCB performs functions as laid down under the Water
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and The Air (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act, 1981
Functions of the CPCB
1 Advise the Central Government on any matter concerning prevention and control of
water and air pollution and improvement of the quality of air.
2 Plan and cause to be executed a nation-wide program for the prevention, control or
abatement of water and air pollution;
3 Co-ordinate the activities of the State Board and resolve disputes among them;
4 Provide technical assistance and guidance to the State Boards,
5 Carry out and sponsor investigation and research relating to problems of water and air
pollution, & for their prevention, control or abatement;
6 Plan and organise training of persons engaged in programme on the prevention,
control or abatement of water and air pollution;
 7 Organise through mass media, a comprehensive mass awareness programme on the
prevention, control or abatement of water and air pollution;
8 Collect, compile and publish technical and statistical data relating to water and air
pollution and the measures devised for their effective prevention, control or
abatement;
9 Prepare manuals, codes and guidelines relating to treatment and disposal of sewage
and trade effluents as well as for stack gas cleaning devices, chimneys and ducts;
10 Disseminate information in respect of matters relating to water and air pollution and
their prevention and control; CPCB has identified 17 categories of heavily polluting
industries
11 Lay down, modify or terminate, in consultation with the State Governments
concerned, the standards for stream or well, and lay down standards for the quality of
air; and
12 Perform such other function as may be prescribed by the Government of India.
13 Conducts inspections to ensure compliance by industrial units to various pollution
control norms

Role of State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) in Environmental

Governance in India
There are State Pollution Control Boards at various state capitals of the country to advise
respective state governments to control and protect environment. A person of repute in the
field of environment or environmental scientists heads the SPCB as chairman. The SPCB has
its own team of scientists and laboratories to check quality of air, soil and water of different
samples collected from industrial areas.
Functions of SPCBs
(a) Planning a comprehensive programme for prevention, control and reduction of pollution
of streams and wells. Studies
(b) Advising the State Government regarding water pollution control or location of industries.
(c) Conducting and encouraging investigations and research relating to different aspects of
water pollution.
(d) To collaborate with the Central Board for training personnel for handling water pollution
programmes and organising related mass education programmes.
(e) Inspecting trade effluents and waste water treatment plants.
(f) Prescribing effluent standards for the sewage and trade effluents.
(g) Evolving economical and reliable methods of disposal, treatment and reuse of waste water
(in agriculture).
(h) Laying down the standards of treatment of sewage and trade effluents to be discharged
into any stream.
(i) Making, varying or revoking any order for preservation or control of discharge of waste into
streams and wells or construction of systems for disposal of effluents.
(j) Establishing or recognising laboratories for analysis of samples.
(k) Performing such functions as may be entrusted by Central Board or State governments.

‘Consent to Operate’ mechanism of State Pollution Control Boards:

(a) Person/industries discharging any sewage or effluent into any stream or well or on land
will have to seek the consent of the State Board. Board must decide an application for
consent within four months failing which consent will be deemed to have been given.
(b) A person may appeal against the order of the State Board within 30 days, to an appellate
authority established by the State Government. The State Govt, can alter the decision of the
State Board, if necessary.
(c) While giving consent, if any work is required to be executed and the applicant fails to do
so, the Board may itself execute it and recover the expenses along with interest.
(d) The State Board must be informed in case due to an accident in any industry or treatment
or disposal system, any polluting matter is likely to be discharged into any stream, well or on
land which in turn may pollute wa­ter. The Board may take remedial measures wherever
necessary.
(e) The Board may approach a court for restraining a person who is likely to cause pollution by
disposal discharge of polluting matter into a stream, well or on land.
(f) The person concerned may be directed by the court to remove the polluting matter and in
case of non-compliance, the court may authorise the board to do the needful and the
expenses incurred by the Board may be recovered from the person concerned.
(h) The Board may order closure, prohibition or regulation of any industry or operation. It may
stop or regulate the supply of electricity, water or any other service.

Powers of the SPCB

i. Power to Obtain Information:
According to Section 20.2, the State Board may make surveys, take measurements or
obtain information for purpose of performing functions under The Water (Prevention
and Control of Pollution) Act. Failure to comply with any directions under the Section
is a punishable offence under subsection (1) of Section 41.
ii. Power to Take Samples:
The State Government has the power to take samples of water of any stream or well
or any effluent being discharged into such a stream or well, for analysis. The State
Board further has the power to obtain a report of the result of the analysis by a
recognised laboratory.
iii. Power of Entry and Inspection: The State Board is empowered by the State Govt.,
with the right to enter any place for the purpose of performing any of the functions
entrusted to it.
iv. Power of Prohibition on Disposal of Polluting Matter into a Stream or Well – It
prohibits entry of any poisonous, noxious or polluting matter directly or indirectly into
any stream, well or sewer or on land.
Role of National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Environmental Management
National Green Tribunal was established in 2010 under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution
which guarantees the citizen of India the right to healthy environment. National Green
Tribunal Act, 2010 provides for the establishment of National Green Tribunals. India is the
third country following Australia and New Zealand to have such system. The tribunal is a
special fast-track quasi-judicial body comprising of judges and environment expert who will
ensure prompt disposal of cases.
NGT was set up in response to the Supreme Court and the Law Commission’s
recommendations pointing out the large numbers of environment-related cases pending in
courts. The Supreme Court of India in its judgment referred the needs for establishment of
environmental court which would have the benefit of expert advice from environmental
scientist and technically qualified persons as a part of judicial process

Structure of NGT
Following the enactment of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, the Principal Bench of the
National Green Tribunal has been established in the National Capital – New Delhi, with
regional benches in Pune (Western Zone Bench), Bhopal (Central Zone Bench), Chennai (South
Bench) and Kolkata (Eastern Bench). Each bench has a specified geographical jurisdiction
covering several States in a region. There is also a mechanism for circuit benches. For
example, the Southern Zone bench, which is based in Chennai, can decide to have sitting in
other places like Bangalore or Hyderabad.
The chairperson of the National Green Tribunal is retired Judge of the Supreme Court,
Head Quartered in Delhi. Other Judicial members are retired Judges of High Courts. Each
bench of the National Green Tribunal will comprise of at least one Judicial Member and one
Expert Member. Expert members should have a professional qualification and a minimum of
15 years’ experience in the field of environment/forest conservation and related subjects.

Procedure for filing an Application or Appeal

The National Green Tribunal has a simple procedure to file an application seeking
compensation for environmental damage. If the party is not satisfied with the decision can file
an application before tribunal against an appeal, an order or any decision of the Government.
If no claim for compensation is involved in an application / appeal, a fee of Rs. 1000/- is to be
paid. In case where compensation is being claimed, the fee will be one percent of the amount
of compensation subject to a minimum of Rs. 1000/-.
Claim for Compensation under NGT
A claim for compensation can be made for:
 Relief / compensation to the victims of pollution and other environmental damage
including accidents involving hazardous substances;
 Restitution (restoration) of property damaged;
  Restitution of the environment for such areas as determined by the National Green
Tribunal.
Further no application for grant of any compensation or relief or restitution of property or
environment shall be entertained by the tribunal unless it is made within a period of five
years from the date on which the cause for such compensation or relief first occurred
Jurisdiction of the Green Tribunal
The National Green Tribunal has power to hear all civil cases relating to environmental issues
and questions that are linked to the implementation of laws listed in Schedule I of the
NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL Act. These include the following.
• The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974;
• The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980;
• The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981;
• The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986;
• The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991;
• The Biological Diversity Act, 2002
This means that any violations pertaining only to these laws, or any order / decision taken by
the Government under these laws can be challenged before the NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL.
This Act confers on the Tribunal, the jurisdiction over all civil cases where a substantial
question relating to environment (including enforcement of any legal right relating to
environment) is involved. It further provides a time-limit of six months within which the
applications for settlement of dispute under this section shall be entertained by the Tribunal.

Notable orders of NGT

A. The Yamuna floodplain case
In March 2016, NGT imposed a fine of Rs 5 crores on the Art of Living Foundation
because it had organized World Cultural Festival on Yamuna floodplain and damaged
the environment of floodplain.
B. Ban on decade old Diesel vehicles at Delhi NCR
In an attempt to minimize air pollution at the capital of India and National Capital
Region (NCR), NGT announced that 10 years old vehicles are not allowed to ply on roads
of Delhi NCR
C. 2011 Sinking of ship: NGT slaps Rs 100-crore fine on shipping company Upholding the
‘polluter pays’ principle of environmental law, the National Green tribunal (NGT)
ordered Panama-based shipping company and its two Qatar-based sister concerns to
pay Rs 100 crore for damages caused due the sinking of their ship off Mumbai’s coast in
2011. The ship, MV Rak, sank 20 nautical miles off the south coast of Mumbai with a
cargo of more than 60,000 metric tonnes of coal while on its way from Indonesia to
Dahej, Gujarat. It also contained 290 tonnes of fuel oil and 50 tonnes of diesel on board
2.3 GEOSPATIAL TECHNOLOGY
Geospatial Technology refers to the use of various tools and techniques to collect, store,
analyse, and visualize geographic and spatial data. It helps in understanding and managing the
Earth's surface, natural resources, and human activities through precise mapping and data
analysis. Geospatial technology is widely used in various fields, including urban planning,
environmental management, disaster management, agriculture, transportation, and defense.
Geospatial technology allows us to measure assets, understand patterns of change,
better understanding about the consumption of resources, and identify the impact of
human-induced changes.

Components of Geospatial Technology

1. Geographic Information System (GIS): GIS is a system that captures, stores, analyses, and
presents spatial or geographic data. It helps in making informed decisions by integrating
various data layers, such as land use, vegetation cover, and hydrology. It is used in various
applications like urban planning, disaster response, environmental monitoring, resource
management, etc.
2. Global Positioning System (GPS): GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that provides
real-time location and time information. It helps in navigation, tracking, and mapping
applications in transportation, logistics, and outdoor activities. It is having different
applications of precise positioning in agriculture, environmental management, defense,
surveying, etc.
3. Remote Sensing (RS): The process of collecting information about the Earth's surface using
satellite imagery, aerial photography, and drones. Provides valuable data on land use
changes, deforestation, climate change, and natural disasters. It is used for monitoring
environmental conditions, agriculture, and disaster management.

Significance of Geospatial Technology

Geospatial Technology plays a crucial role in various sectors due to its ability to provide
spatial insights and data-driven decision-making. Some key significances include:
1. Improved Decision-Making – Helps governments and organizations make informed
decisions about infrastructure, resource management, and urban development.
2. Disaster Management – Assists in predicting, monitoring, and responding to natural
disasters like floods, earthquakes, and wildfires.
3. Environmental Conservation – Tracks deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate
change impacts to support conservation efforts.
4. Urban and Regional Planning – Helps in designing sustainable cities, transportation
networks, and land-use planning.
5. Agriculture and Food Security – Supports precision farming, soil analysis, and crop
monitoring for increased agricultural productivity.
6. Water Resource Management – Assists in monitoring water bodies, managing
watersheds, and preventing pollution.
7. Public Health and Epidemiology – Helps in tracking disease outbreaks, healthcare
accessibility, and environmental health risks.
8. Defense and Security – Provides intelligence for border security, military planning, and
surveillance.
I. Geographic Information System (GIS)
GIS is a powerful technology used for capturing, storing, analyzing, managing, and visualizing
spatial (geographic) data. It integrates multiple layers of geospatial data and provides a
framework for understanding spatial relationships, patterns, and trends. GIS is widely applied
in environmental management, urban planning, disaster risk reduction, agriculture,
transportation, and many other fields.

Definition: A geographic information system (GIS) is a system that creates, manages,

analyses, and maps all types of data. GIS connects data to a map, integrating location data
(where things are) with all types of descriptive information (what things are like there). -
Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI)

Applications of GIS
a. Environmental management
• Forest monitoring: Detecting deforestation and illegal land encroachments.
• Air and water quality assessment: Mapping pollution sources and affected areas.
• Biodiversity conservation: Tracking wildlife habitats and ecosystem changes.
b. Disaster risk management
• Flood mapping and prediction: Identifying flood-prone zones and risk areas.
• Earthquake and landslide mapping: Determining seismic activity zones and slope
stability.
• Emergency response planning: Optimizing evacuation routes and disaster relief
logistics.
c. Urban and regional planning
• Smart cities development: Integrating GIS for efficient urban management.
• Infrastructure planning: Designing road networks, metro lines, and utility distribution.
• Land use planning: Allocating zones for residential, commercial, and industrial
development.
d. Agriculture and precision farming
• Soil and crop monitoring: Identifying suitable crops based on soil properties.
• Irrigation management: Mapping groundwater resources for sustainable water use.
• Yield prediction: Forecasting agricultural production using GIS models.
e. Public health and disease surveillance
• Epidemiological mapping: Tracking the spread of diseases like COVID-19, malaria, and
dengue.
• Healthcare infrastructure planning: Identifying underserved areas for medical
facilities.
• Pollution and disease correlation: Analysing environmental health risks using GIS
data.
f. Transportation and logistics
• Traffic flow management: Optimizing road networks and reducing congestion.
• Public transport planning: Enhancing bus and metro route efficiency.
• Logistics and supply chain optimization: Ensuring timely delivery of goods and
services.
Advantages of GIS
• Efficient decision-making: Supports evidence-based planning for sustainable
development.
• Improved resource management: Helps optimize the use of natural resources.
• Better environmental protection: Monitors deforestation, climate change, and
pollution control.
• Enhanced disaster preparedness: Identifies risk areas and enables quick response.
• Cost and time efficiency: Reduces manual effort in spatial analysis and mapping.
• Customization and scalability: Can be adapted for various sectors and industries.

II. Global Positioning System (GPS)

GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that provides accurate location, velocity, and time
information anywhere on Earth. It is widely used in various fields, including transportation,
environmental management, military operations, disaster response, agriculture, and scientific
research. GPS enables users to determine their precise position in real-time and navigate
efficiently.

Functions of GPS
a. Positioning and navigation: It determines precise location coordinates (latitude, longitude,
and altitude). Further guides navigation for vehicles, ships, aircraft, and hikers.
b. Timing synchronization: It provides highly accurate time signals used in
telecommunications, banking, and power grid synchronization.
c. Velocity and movement tracking: Measures speed and direction of movement, useful in
sports, logistics, and military applications.
d. Mapping and surveying: Supports cartographic mapping, land surveying, and Geographic
Information System (GIS) applications.
e. Disaster management and emergency services: Helps in earthquake monitoring, flood
forecasting, and emergency rescue operations by providing real-time location data.

Applications of GPS
a. Environmental monitoring and conservation
• Wildlife tracking: GPS collars help in studying animal migration and preventing
poaching.
• Climate change research: Scientists use GPS to measure sea level rise and glacier
movement.
• Deforestation control: GPS enables precise monitoring of illegal logging activities.
b. Disaster management
• Earthquake monitoring: GPS sensors detect tectonic movements and ground
displacement.
• Flood and cyclone warning systems: GPS-linked meteorological models improve
disaster prediction.
• Search and rescue operations: GPS helps locate missing persons, aircraft.
c. Transportation and navigation
• Aviation and marine navigation: GPS is used for flight paths, air traffic control, and
ship routing.
 • Vehicle navigation: GPS is integrated into cars, buses, and trains for route
optimization and safety.
• Logistics and fleet management: GPS enhances real-time tracking of goods and
delivery vehicles.
d. Military and defense
• Missile guidance systems: GPS ensures precision targeting in modern warfare.
• Troop and equipment tracking: Used for battlefield navigation and coordination.
• Geofencing: Defines restricted zones and security perimeters using GPS technology.
e. Agriculture and precision farming
• Soil and crop analysis: GPS allows farmers to assess soil health and optimize
fertilization.
• Automated tractors and drones: Enables precision farming with self-guided
machinery.
• Irrigation management: GPS helps map water distribution for efficient irrigation
systems.
f. Public health and epidemiology
• Pandemic tracking: GPS-assisted mobile apps track COVID-19 hotspots.
• Mosquito-borne disease control: Helps monitor malaria and dengue outbreaks based
on geospatial data.
• Healthcare logistics: GPS ensures efficient delivery of vaccines, medicines, and
medical supplies.
g. Space exploration
• GPS technology is adapted for satellite navigation, deep-space missions, and planetary
research.

Advantages of GPS
• Global coverage: GPS works anywhere on Earth, 24/7, regardless of weather
conditions.
• High accuracy: Can pinpoint locations within a few centimeters with advanced
techniques.
• Real-time data availability: Supports live tracking and navigation.
• User-friendly and portable: Available on smartphones, smartwatches, and vehicle
dashboards.
• Cost-effective: No subscription fees for civilian use.

III. Remote Sensing (RS)

Remote Sensing (RS) is the process of acquiring information about an object or phenomenon
without physical contact, typically using satellites, aircraft, or drones equipped with sensors. It
plays a crucial role in environmental monitoring, disaster management, urban planning,
agriculture, forestry, and climate change studies.
Remote Sensing collects data in various electromagnetic spectrum ranges, including visible
light, infrared, microwave, and radio waves. The collected data is processed to generate
images, maps, and models used for scientific and practical applications.

Applications of Remote Sensing

a. Environmental monitoring and climate change
• Tracks deforestation, desertification, and glacier melting.
 • Measures greenhouse gas emissions, sea level rise, and temperature variations.
Examples: NASA’s MODIS, Sentinel-5P for air pollution monitoring.
b. Disaster management
• Flood prediction and mapping: Satellite imagery helps in early flood warnings and
relief planning.
• Earthquake damage assessment: Radar and LiDAR detect ground displacement and
building collapses.
• Forest fire detection: Thermal sensors detect heat signatures of wildfires.
Examples: NASA FIRMS, Sentinel-1 SAR, Landsat.
c. Agriculture and precision farming
• Crop monitoring: Identifies crop health, drought stress, and pest infestations.
• Soil moisture analysis: Helps optimize irrigation and fertilization.
• Yield prediction: AI-based remote sensing predicts harvest potential.
Examples: Sentinel-2, MODIS NDVI, NASA SMAP.
d. Water resource management
• Water quality monitoring: Tracks pollution, algal blooms, and sedimentation in lakes
and rivers.
• Groundwater and drought assessment: Monitors reservoir levels and drought
intensity.
Examples: Landsat, Sentinel-2, GRACE satellite.
e. Urban planning and land use management
• Infrastructure development: Identifies suitable areas for roads, buildings, and
utilities.
• Urban heat islands (UHI) analysis: Detects temperature variations in cities to improve
green space planning.
• Illegal encroachments detection: Tracks deforestation and unauthorized land use.
Examples: Landsat, Sentinel-2, Google Earth Engine.
f. Oceanography and marine ecosystems
• Oil spill detection: Detects marine pollution from ship accidents.
• Coral reef monitoring: Tracks coral bleaching due to climate change.
• Tsunami and hurricane forecasting: Measures ocean temperature, currents, and
storm intensity.
Examples: NOAA GOES, Sentinel-3, NASA Aqua MODIS.
g. Wildlife conservation and biodiversity
• Habitat mapping: Identifies critical wildlife habitats and migration corridors.
• Poaching prevention: Satellite images detect illegal wildlife trade and deforestation.
• Ecosystem health analysis: Tracks changes in forests, wetlands, and grasslands.
Examples: NASA GEDI, Google Earth Engine, Sentinel-2.

Advantages of Remote Sensing

• Large-scale coverage: Captures data over vast areas.
• Non-intrusive data collection: No need for physical access to remote or dangerous
locations.
• Real-time monitoring: Provides frequent and up-to-date information.
• Multi-spectral analysis: Captures data beyond the visible spectrum.
• Improved accuracy with AI & machine learning: Enhances automated feature
detection.
Challenges and limitations of Remote Sensing
• High cost: Advanced satellites and sensors require significant investment.
• Cloud cover interference: Optical sensors cannot see through clouds, requiring radar
alternatives.
• Complex data processing: Requires expertise in GIS, image processing, and AI.
• Resolution limitations: Some sensors lack high-resolution capabilities for detailed
studies.
• Geopolitical restrictions: Some satellite data is restricted due to national security
concerns.

GOOGLE EARTH
Google Earth is a powerful geospatial tool that allows users to explore the world using
satellite imagery, aerial photography, and geographic data. It is widely used in education,
research, urban planning, environmental studies, and more.
Google Earth is a virtual globe software that allows users to explore the Earth in 3D. It
provides high-resolution satellite imagery, terrain mapping, and Street View images. Google
Earth is available as a desktop application, mobile app, and web-based service, making it
accessible from various devices and platforms. It's a powerful tool for exploration, education,
and research. Google Earth Pro can also be leveraged to view its extremely high-resolution
satellite imagery, upload or download geospatial data in its native interoperable file-format
(KML), and also find locations (e.g. for simple geocoding).
Google Earth is available on different platforms i.e. Desktop, Web and Mobile. Google
Earth Web is available online without installation. However, the Google Earth Mobile App is
available on Android and iOS for on-the-go exploration. Google Earth Pro (Desktop
Application) has advanced features like high-resolution printing, GIS data import/export, and
measurements.

Key Features of Google Earth

1. Activity dashboard: The Activity Dashboard feature in Google Earth Pro provides users
with a comprehensive overview of their activities, including the places they have visited, the
routes they have taken, the layers they have added, and more. Google Earth provides search
capabilities and the ability to pan, zoom, rotate, and tilt the view of the Earth. It also offers
tools for creating new data and a growing set of layers of data, such as volcanoes and terrain,
that reside on Google’s servers and can be displayed in the view.
2. 3D Earth exploration: Google Earth provides a 3D model of the Earth, allowing users to
navigate across different terrains, cities, and natural landscapes. Google Earth Pro allows
users to collect their data by adding place-marks, lines, and shapes to their maps, enabling
them to annotate and document specific locations or areas of interest.
3. Satellite imagery & street view: Users can zoom in to see satellite images of different
locations. Street View allows real-world navigation with 360-degree images. Google Earth
supports the import and export of geospatial data in various formats, making it easy for users
to work with data from other sources and share their data with others.
4. Historical imagery: Users can view past satellite images to analyze changes over time
(useful for tracking deforestation, urban growth, climate change, etc.).
5. Measurement tools: Distance and area measurement tools help in geographic and land-
use analysis. The Color Codes/Icons feature in Google Earth Pro allows users to customize the
appearance of their maps by assigning different colors and icons to different elements,
making it easier to visualize and interpret data.
6. Voyager (guided tours & stories): Google Earth Voyager offers guided tours on nature,
culture, and history, making it an educational tool.
7. 3D Buildings & terrain: Cities and landscapes are rendered in 3D, providing realistic views
of urban and natural environments.
8. Importing GIS data (KML/KMZ files): Users can upload their geographic data for analysis.
9. Time-lapse Feature: Allows users to visualize environmental year wise changes.
10. API: Google Earth Pro offers an API (Application Programming Interface) that allows
developers to integrate Google Earth’s functionality into their applications and websites.

Uses of Google Earth

Google Earth is an essential tool for various applications across industries, helping in
visualization, analysis, and decision-making. Whether in education, urban planning, disaster
management, or agriculture, it provides valuable insights and real-world data.
1. Education & research: Google Earth is extensively used in schools, colleges, and research
institutions for interactive learning and data analysis. It is used in geography, environmental
science, and history education for virtual field trips and spatial analysis. Google Earth Pro
allows users to integrate census data into their maps and visualizations, providing valuable
demographic information for analysis and decision-making.
2. Urban planning & infrastructure development: Helps city planners visualize land use,
traffic congestion, and infrastructure development. It helps urban planners analyze land use
in various ways for analysis and simulation. Urban planners use Google Earth to analyze green
spaces, traffic flow, and building density.
3. Environmental studies & climate change analysis: Scientists and environmentalists use
Google Earth to track environmental changes and implement conservation programs. It
provides time-lapse imagery to track deforestation, glacier retreat, ocean level rise, the
depletion of Sundarbans mangrove forest, and other environmental changes.
4. Disaster management: Google Earth plays a crucial role in disaster preparedness,
response, and recovery. It is useful for monitoring natural disasters like earthquakes, floods,
and hurricanes. Meteorologists use Google Earth to overlay storm paths and predict impact
areas.
5. Agriculture & Landuse mapping: Farmers, agronomists, and policymakers use Google
Earth for land mapping, soil analysis, and crop monitoring. Monitoring farmland conditions,
planning irrigation, etc. are significant for decision-making.
6. Tourism & exploration: Google Earth is used by travellers to explore destinations, plan
trips, and navigate routes. It allows users to explore famous landmarks, natural wonders, and
remote locations.
7. Other: Google Earth is used by police and security agencies for surveillance and
investigation. It helps identify crime hotspots and track movements. Real estate developers
and home buyers use Google Earth for location analysis. Specially to analyze flood-prone
zones before construction. Buyers can check neighborhoods, proximity to schools, and
infrastructure before purchasing a home.

Limitations:
However, Google Earth has many limitations, such as inconsistent image quality, a limited
capability for making quantitative measurements, a lack of analytical functionality, and the
inability to support. Overall, while Google Earth has some advantages for land cover change
analysis, it also has limitations that should be considered when conducting studies. It can be a
useful tool for preliminary analysis or for studies that do not require high accuracy.

*****