essay on environment protection in india and its effect

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The why and how of environmental protection: Evidence from India

Blog 29 Apr 2024 Sustainable Growth and Energy

Ideas for India's Editorial Advisor, Nalini Gulati reviews studies on the adverse impact of environmental degradation on human health and economic outcomes, and draws insights from research on how effective policy design and implementation in India can mitigate the damage and enable protection of the environment.

The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted that the summer months will likely be hotter than usual this year, with a higher number of heatwave days . The drop in voter turnout in the first phase of the general elections, from 69.9% in the same constituencies in 2019 to 65.5% this time, is largely being attributed to the extreme heat. Bengaluru, India’s IT hub, has been grappling with an acute water crisis over the past few months – with experts fearing that the worst is yet to come. Air pollution in the capital city of New Delhi in the winter of 2023 was worse than in the previous year, causing complications for residents with respiratory ailments . These recent headlines (among many others) make it amply clear that the harmful effects of environmental degradation are multifarious, grave, and impossible to escape.

Poor health of environment translates to poor health of humans

Various studies have documented the adverse impact of ambient air pollution on health, particularly for children. Analysing satellite data on fine particulate matter (PM2.5) together with National Family Health Survey (NFHS), 2015-16 data, Bali et al. (2020) find that in-utero exposure to air pollution during the first trimester negatively impacts child growth indicators. Along similar lines, Vyas (2020) shows that children who are born within 50 km of a median-sized coal plant are shorter than those born with no such exposure. Furthermore, exposed children are expected to be less likely to read by 0.5 percentage points, and to have lower hourly earnings (if this height deficit persists into adulthood). Leveraging seasonal variation in air quality caused by upwind agricultural fires, Pullabhotla (2019) uncovers that an increase in PM10 by 10 micrograms/cubic metre results in almost 96,000 deaths annually among children under the age of five.

Besides outdoor air pollution, bad air inside homes also harms children’s health. In their I4I post, Chafe et al. (2019) state that the median estimate of contribution of household air pollution to ambient PM2.5 is in the range of 22%-30%. In this context, Balietti and Mittal (2017) demonstrate that living in a household that burns solid fuels is associated with 6.5% of stunting cases in under-three children in India. As per this analysis, fuel type is almost half as influential as malnutrition in terms of impact on stunting.

Researchers have also explored the effect of water pollution on children’s health. Analysing the significant drop in pollution in Ganga River near tanneries in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh in response to a Supreme Court ruling, Joshi (2016) notes a reduction in infant mortality in the city: when the water became 40% more likely to fall in the ‘fit-for-bathing’ category, mortality among one-year-olds dropped by 50%. In a recent study, Frank and Sudarshan (2023) establish a link between collapse in vulture population and human mortality – on account of worsening sanitation. More broadly, the authors highlight that climate change may impose stress on some species, and their roles in the ecosystem may not be replaced by other species – leading to negative outcomes.

These studies remind us that while certain human activities cause damage to the ecosystem, the health of humans and of ecosystems are in fact intertwined.  

When the environment suffers, the economy does too

Noting that the evidence on the ‘non-health’ impacts of air pollution is relatively less well-known, Aguilar-Gomez et al. (2023) summarise studies that capture the harm caused by air pollution to day-to-day worker productivity in various industries in terms of impaired cognitive and physical performance – despite no diagnosable disease.

Given that a large proportion of India’s population continues to have climate-dependent agrarian livelihoods, a segment of the literature has assessed the impact of climate change on agriculture. Garg, Jagnani, and Taraz (2018) show that higher-than-normal temperatures in a particular year pull down agricultural incomes in the same year and have large negative impacts on children’s human capital in the subsequent year. In a 2020 study, Blakeslee, Fishman, and Srinivasan collect data on 1,500 farmers in rural areas surrounding Bengaluru in Karnataka, which face drought conditions. The researchers discover that farmers whose wells dried up experienced 25% lower incomes than those with operational wells. Farmers were not able to adapt cultivation to water shortage but those in areas with presence of large-scale manufacturing managed to move out of agriculture. However, a downside was that adolescents were also pulled out of school to take up these employment opportunities.

Delving into the impact of climate change-induced temperature variability on household consumption expenditure during 1987-2012, Aggarwal (2023) reveals sectoral inequality: while farmers and industrial workers in rural India experienced consumption declines on average, living standards improved for those working in services irrespective of region.

Ideas for policy

Besley and Hussain (2023) highlight that a key climate action governments can take is the phase-out of coal-fired power in favour of cleaner alternatives. Using global attitudes data on ambient air quality perceptions from 51 countries including India, the researchers compute citizens’ willingness-to-pay to phase-out coal power. Combining this with measures of wellbeing of residents in close proximity to power plants, they conclude that the benefits of switching to solar or wind energy are large enough to justify investing in a green transition involving the shut-down of coal plants.

Energy economist, Anant Sudarshan (2016) notes that “much of India’s strategy to reduce fossil fuels relies on a transition to renewable energy, namely solar.” Noting that adoption of off-grid solar technologies remains low despite their potential of filling gaps in electricity supply, Mahadevan, Meeks, and Yamano (2022) explore the constraint of information. In their study in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha, they focus on low- and middle-income customers – groups that are targeted by the government for subsidies in order to keep this energy source affordable. It is seen that when potential consumers are provided accurate product information loaded on a mobile application on electronic tablets during the sales process, they express stronger interest in adopting solar home systems.

To address air pollution in North India due to crop residue burning, the government banned this practice in 2015 and has been subsidising machinery that can help remove and manage residue. For instance, as recommended by Gupta and Somanathan (2016) , the government is providing large subsidies on equipment such as ‘happy seeders’ – tractor-mounted machines that cut and lift rice straw, sows the next crop wheat into the soil, and deposits the straw over the sown area as mulch. To enhance the impact of these policies, a study in Punjab by Jack et al. (2023) demonstrates that greater compliance can be achieved through well-designed payments for ecosystem services (PES) programmes that give farmers (that may lack liquidity and/or trust in the offered contract) partial upfront payments.

Political will matters too. Surveying village council leaders in Punjab, Jagnani and Mahadevan (2023) find that women leaders are more likely to consider crop fires a very serious issue – plausibly because they are more concerned about the associated health costs for children, display greater awareness of relevant government policies, and are more likely to strongly favour regulations aimed at curtailing crop fires. At an all-India level, the researchers find that the election of a female Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) over a male counterpart in a close contest decreases crop fires by 13% and monthly maximum biomass-related particulate emissions by 40%.

Acknowledging the high environmental cost of supplying water – a scare natural resource that is expected to further deplete with global warming – Vivek, Malghan, and Mukherjee (2021) write that current usage by affluent populations is unsustainably high, while for disadvantaged groups availability is too low for a reasonable quality of life. The authors test a behavioural intervention in a well-off residential community in Bengaluru encompassing the provision of a weekly water-usage report to households, a suggested water-use goal with feedback on performance, and tips on meeting the goal. They find that the resulting ‘habit change’ led to reduced water consumption – without any economic incentives or restrictions .

Turning attention to forest conservation, an important policy move in India was the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, which adopts a rights-based approach to forest conservation, seeking to place local communities at the centre of forest governance ( Gedam 2021 ). However, claims to land rights are often rejected ( Kukreti 2020 ) and even in cases where forest residents hold titles, the forest department does not seek community consent in the management of forest resources and may carry out afforestation projects on land under cultivation by forest residents Nandwani (2023) . Nandwani (2023) emphasises the need to adapt existing forest conservation legislations such as the Forest Conservation Act (FCA), 1980, whereby compensatory afforestation funds (paid by entities diverting forest land for non-forest purposes) are managed by state governments. Hence, there is a pressing need to harmonise conservation efforts and social justice for forest residents.

Good data are essential for effective policy design and implementation for environmental protection. Mehta and Pohit (2023) discuss the example of a project undertaken by National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) in collaboration with Tata Centre for Development (TCD), which used automated sensors attached to boats to collect data on water quality parameters at key points along the Ganga in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. They contend that such information can help understand the sources of pollution in order to craft suitable policy as well as ensure regulatory compliance. At a macro-level, focusing on India’s target under the Paris Agreement of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity by 33-35% by 2030, from 2005 level, Jain (2020) finds that there are differences in the relevant data captured by country reports and third-party sources. She makes suggestions for improving official reporting such as annual publication of GHG inventories to improve tracking and monitoring of achievements.

The evidence makes a compelling case for immediate actions to curtail further environmental degradation, both to protect human health and wellbeing and to promote economic progress. Awareness and information provision, political will, behavioural interventions targeted at the users of environmental services, and good data, are all important ingredients in the design and implementation of effective environmental policies.

This article was published in collaboration with Ideas for India as a part of the upcoming India Sustainable Growth Conference at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

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Table of Contents

Introduction to environmental laws and policies.

In a world grappling with the repercussions of climate change and environmental degradation, it’s imperative to understand the role of environmental laws and policies in India. This article explores India’s commitment to preserving its natural resources and fostering sustainable development through an array of regulations and initiatives.

The Evolution of Environmental Laws and Policies

India’s journey towards formulating comprehensive environmental laws began in the early 1970s. The urgency to address environmental issues gained prominence during the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm in 1972. This landmark event laid the foundation for India’s environmental policy framework.

The Environmental Protection Act, 1986

One of the pivotal moments in India’s environmental legislation was the enactment of the Environmental Protection Act in 1986. This act empowered the central government to take necessary measures to safeguard and improve the environment.

Key Environmental Policies

India’s approach to environmental protection is rooted in several key policies and strategies, aiming to strike a balance between economic growth and ecological preservation.

National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)

India’s NAPCC, launched in 2008, outlines a comprehensive strategy to combat climate change while promoting sustainable development. It consists of eight national missions, each targeting specific climate-related challenges.

Forest Rights Act, 2006

Recognizing the importance of tribal communities in conserving forests, this act grants legal rights to forest dwellers over the land they have inhabited for generations. It not only protects forests but also empowers marginalized communities.

The National Action Plan on Climate Change, launched in 2008, is a pivotal policy document that outlines India’s comprehensive strategy to combat climate change while simultaneously promoting sustainable development. It comprises eight national missions, each targeting specific climate-related challenges:

National Solar Mission

India’s National Solar Mission aims to promote the development and deployment of solar energy technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy security.

National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency

This mission focuses on improving energy efficiency in various sectors, including industries, transportation, and agriculture, to reduce energy consumption and mitigate climate change.

National Water Mission

The National Water Mission addresses water-related issues, such as water conservation, efficient water use, and sustainable management of water resources, to ensure water availability for all.

National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture

This mission seeks to promote climate-resilient agricultural practices and reduce emissions from the agricultural sector while ensuring food security.

National Mission on Sustainable Habitat

With rapid urbanization, this mission aims to promote sustainable urban planning and development, emphasizing energy-efficient buildings and public transport systems.

National Mission for Green India

Focused on forest and biodiversity conservation, this mission aims to restore and enhance forest and tree cover, as well as protect wildlife habitats.

This mission aims to promote climate-resilient agricultural practices and reduce emissions from the agricultural sector while ensuring food security.

National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change

This mission focuses on creating and disseminating knowledge related to climate change, adaptation, and mitigation strategies.

The Forest Rights Act, enacted in 2006, recognizes the historical injustice meted out to forest-dwelling tribal and indigenous communities. It grants legal rights to forest dwellers over the land they have inhabited for generations. This act not only protects forests but also empowers marginalized communities by giving them control over their resources.

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

This legislation aims to prevent and control water pollution by regulating the discharge of pollutants into water bodies and setting water quality standards.

Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981

Similar to the Water Act, the Air Act of 1981 addresses air pollution issues by regulating emissions from industries and vehicles, thereby improving air quality.

Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

This act provides legal provisions for the protection and conservation of wildlife in India. It designates protected areas and regulates hunting and poaching activities.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite India’s efforts to strengthen its environmental laws, several challenges and controversies persist. Rapid urbanization, industrialization, and population growth continue to exert pressure on the environment, leading to concerns about air and water pollution.

Rapid Urbanization and Industrialization

India’s rapid urbanization and industrial growth have brought economic prosperity but also environmental challenges. The expansion of cities and industries often leads to increased pollution, deforestation, and habitat destruction, impacting air and water quality, as well as biodiversity.

Air and Water Pollution

Air pollution is a significant concern in many Indian cities, with high levels of particulate matter and pollutants affecting public health. Water pollution, driven by industrial discharges and inadequate sewage treatment, poses a severe threat to water bodies and public health.

Deforestation and Loss of Biodiversity

The growth of infrastructure projects and agricultural expansion has resulted in deforestation and the loss of critical habitats for wildlife. This poses a threat to India’s rich biodiversity and can lead to ecological imbalances.

Inadequate Implementation and Enforcement

Despite robust environmental laws and policies, their effective implementation and enforcement can be challenging. Inconsistent enforcement across states and regions, bureaucratic delays, and corruption can hinder the intended impact of these policies.

Displacement of Indigenous Communities

Large-scale infrastructure projects, such as dams and mining, often lead to the displacement of indigenous and tribal communities who depend on the land for their livelihoods. This raises ethical and human rights concerns.

Water Scarcity and Resource Management

India faces significant challenges related to water scarcity and mismanagement of water resources. Competing demands for water from agriculture, industry, and households often lead to conflicts.

Controversy Over Environmental Clearances

The process of granting environmental clearances for development projects is often mired in controversy. Critics argue that some projects receive approval without adequate scrutiny of their environmental impact.

Climate Change Vulnerability

India is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events. Adapting to and mitigating these changes require substantial resources and policy adjustments.

Waste Management and Plastic Pollution

Inefficient waste management systems and the proliferation of single-use plastics contribute to environmental degradation. Proper disposal and recycling of waste materials are ongoing challenges.

Lack of Public Awareness and Participation

Engaging the public in environmental conservation efforts remains a challenge. Limited awareness and engagement hinder collective action for environmental protection.

Addressing these challenges and controversies requires a multifaceted approach that includes stricter enforcement of existing laws, sustainable development practices, public awareness campaigns, and proactive measures to combat pollution and protect natural resources. Achieving a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability is an ongoing endeavor for India’s policymakers and citizens.

• The Environmental Protection Act, 1986, empowers the central government to take measures to safeguard and improve the environment, making it a cornerstone of India’s environmental legislation.
• The Forest Rights Act grants legal rights to forest dwellers, helping conserve forests and empowering marginalized communities.
• NAPCC is a comprehensive strategy to combat climate change while promoting sustainable development through various national missions.
• India faces challenges such as rapid urbanization, industrialization, and population growth, leading to concerns about pollution and resource depletion.
• Individuals can contribute by adopting sustainable practices, conserving resources, and supporting initiatives that promote environmental conservation…. .Read more
• #Environmental Laws and Policies

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• Environmental Protection Essay

Essay on Environmental Protection

Environmental protection is improving, defending, and maintaining the quality of the environment. The main methods of environmental protection are recycling, reusing, and reducing; however, some other methods such as Green Energy production, green transportation development, and eco-friendly industrialization also exist. Not only residents but also businesses and industries should play their basic roles to improve the environment.

The History of Environmental Protection  

Humankind has always been concerned about the environment. The ancient Greeks were the first to develop environmental philosophy, and they were followed by other major civilizations such as India and China. In more recent times, the concern for the environment has increased because of growing awareness of the ecological crisis. The Club of Rome, a think tank, was among the first to warn the world about the dangers of overpopulation and pollution in its report "The Limits to Growth" (1972).

In the early days of environmentalism, people thought that the best way to protect nature was to set aside areas where humans would not disturb the environment. This approach, which is known as preservation, was given a major boost in the United States with the establishment of the National Park Service in 1916.

The modern environmental movement began in the 1960s when concerns about the negative impact of humans on the environment began to increase. In response to these concerns, governments around the world began to pass legislation to protect the environment. In the United States, for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established in 1970.

The Principles of Environmental Protection

There are three fundamental principles of environmental protection:

The precautionary principle: This principle states that if an activity has the potential to cause harm to the environment, then steps should be taken to prevent that harm even if there is no clear evidence that the activity is damaging.

The polluter pays principle: This states that the party responsible for causing pollution should be held responsible for cleaning it up.

The public right to know the principle: This principle states that the public has a right to know about any potential threats to the environment and what is being done to address them.

The goals of Environmental Protection

There are three main goals of environmental protection:

To protect human health: This is the most important goal of environmental protection because humans cannot survive without a healthy environment.

To protect ecosystems: Ecosystems are the foundation of life on Earth, and they provide many benefits to humans, such as clean air and water, food, and fiber.

To promote sustainable development: Sustainable development is a development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Environmental protection is a practice that aims to protect the natural environment from the hands of individuals, organizations, and governments. It is the need of the hour because the Earth's environment is deteriorating every day, and the reasons are human beings. They are mishandling the Earth's environment to fulfill their needs. If it goes like this, then it is difficult to say that the future generation will have a safer environment to live in. Through this essay, you will learn the importance of environmental protection.

A Long Essay on Environmental Protection

It is imperative to protect our natural environment from deteriorating, and the only way to do that is through environmental protection. This process should be adopted by every country as soon as possible before it is too late. The objective of this process is to conserve all the natural resources and try to repair some parts of the environment that are possible to get repaired. The biophysical environment is getting degraded permanently because of overconsumption, population growth, and the rapid development of technology. This can be stopped if the government plan strategies to restrict these activities to perform in a controlled way. This environmental protection essay can be a great help for the students to understand the environment they are living in.

Voluntary Environmental Agreements

Voluntary environmental agreements are getting popular in most industrial countries. Through this free essay on environmental protection, one will learn more about this type of agreement. These agreements provide the companies with a platform where they are recognized if they are moving beyond the minimum regulatory standards for protecting the environment. These agreements support the development of one of the best environmental practices. For example, the India Environment Improvement Trust (EIT) has been working in this environment field since the year 1998. Through this environmental protection essay, one is getting so much to learn.

Ecosystems Approach

An ecosystem approach to environmental protection aims to consider the complex interrelationships of the ecosystem as a whole to the process of decision making rather than just focusing on specific issues and challenges. The environmental protection essay writing will give a more precise overview of this approach. The ecosystems approach aims to support the better transferring of information, develop strategies that can resolve conflicts, and improve regional conservation. This approach has played a major role in protecting the environment. This approach also says that religions also play an important role in the conservation of the environment.

International Environmental Agreements

In the present scenario, many of the Earth's natural resources have become vulnerable because of humans and their carelessness towards the environment across different countries. As a result of this, many countries and their governments have come into different agreements to reduce the human impact on the natural environment and protect it from getting deterioration. Through this environmental protection essay in English, one will get a much clearer view on this matter particularly.

The agreements made between different governments of various countries are known as International Environmental Agreements. This agreement includes factors such as climate, oceans, rivers, and air pollution. These agreements are sometimes legally bound, and in case they are not followed, it may lead to some legal implications. These agreements have a long history with some multinational agreements that were made in the year 1910 in Europe, America, and Africa. Some of the most well-known international agreements are the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. Through this environmental protection essay, it is clear that governments are taking steps to solve the environmental issue, but it is not enough.

A Short Paragraph on Environmental Protection in English

Earth is a beautiful place to live in, with the most favorable environmental conditions for living beings. But we humans are making it vulnerable and are destroying our own homes with activities that are causing pollution at an increased rate. In this protecting the environment essay, 200 words will be explained properly on how to save the environment.

Environmental protection has become the need of the hour as it is getting destroyed each day. So, governments are making policies and are coming into agreements with other countries to come up with strategies that can protect the environment. Some companies also have the same aim of protecting the environment from the activities of humans.

In this short article on environmental protection, it is clear that if sudden steps are not taken then, our future generation will have to live in a polluted environment that is conserved very conserve difficult. Environmental protection is the key to a safe and secure future with a beautiful environment to live in. 

With pollution increasing each year and causing deterioration of the natural environment, it has become necessary to take steps to protect the natural environment. As we know that the reason for all these problems is humans, governments should make policies to restrict their activities that are causing harm to the environment. If they are not stopped urgently, then the world might see some catastrophic destruction in the coming years. For example, climate change has been a huge problem, and this is one of the causes of increased pollution. A secured future depends on the environment as a whole.

FAQs on Environmental Protection Essay

1. What are International Environmental Agreements?

International environmental agreements are legal contracts between countries that discuss the protection of the environment to provide better living to present and future generations. These include issues such as climate, oceans, rivers, air pollution, etc. we should always consider that if we harm our environment, then it can affect us as well, and we will become more vulnerable. If we do not take action now, it might get a lot worse. We need to be the generation that starts taking care of our planet and future generations!

2. What is the Kyoto Protocol?

The Kyoto Protocol is one of the most well-known and successful international environmental agreements that has been made in the past to protect the environment. This agreement between countries was made to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases which are causing damage to the ozone layer and climate change. With the help of Kyoto, protocol countries have reduced emission rates by 8% and are planning to reduce them more so that future generations can live in a healthy environment in which they can flourish.

3. What is the Paris Agreement?

The Paris Agreement was made in 2015 to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and to stop climate change. This agreement is very important as it includes every country in the world, and all have agreed to work together to stop climate change. This is a huge step forward as it means that everyone is now working together to try to save our planet. If we try to solve these problems together, then we will have a chance to save our planet.

4. What is the Green Climate Fund?

The Green Climate Fund comes from an agreement made in 2010 to provide money for developing countries that are going through issues such as deforestation and air pollution by making them more sustainable. This fund has a goal of collecting 100 billion dollars by 2020 for supporting developing countries. If this can happen, then many lives can be saved, and we will be able to see a lot of positive changes in the coming years and decades so that we can see an improved environment.

5. What are some activities that harm the Environment?

Some activities that harm the environment include burning fossil fuels, deforestation, air pollution, and wastewater discharge. These activities harm not only the environment but also humans, and we must take action now to reduce the impact which we are causing. For example, the burning of fossil fuels is one of the main reasons for climate change and air pollution, which both have a huge impact on humans. If we stop these activities, then it will be a lot better for everyone!

6. How can we protect the Environment?

Environmental protection is very much required in today's time. Some of the ways to protect the environment are to reduce, reuse, recycle, conserve water, save electricity, clean up the community, educate people on pollution, conserve water, preserve soil, tree plantation, use long-lasting bulbs, and plant trees. Heaven these are the ways which help us to protect the environment from getting polluted.

7.  Why is Environmental Protection Important?

The ecosystem in which we live provides the natural services that are very much important to humans and other species for health, quality of life, and survival. So to protect that, environmental protection is very important. Hence, governments of various countries should make strategies to protect our natural environment from getting polluted.

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5 Biggest Environmental Issues in India in 2024

In its latest climate assessment, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warned that it is “now or never” to limit global warming to 1.5C. The consequences of global warming are felt everywhere in the world. However, some nations suffer more than others. In this article, part of our ‘ Environmental Issues ‘ series, we look art some of the biggest environmental issues in India right now and how the country is dealing with them.

1. Air Pollution

Undoubtedly, one of the most pressing environmental issues in India is air pollution. According to the 2021 World Air Quality Report, India is home to 63 of the 100 most polluted cities, with New Delhi named the capital with the worst air quality in the world. The study also found that PM2.5 concentrations – tiny particles in the air that are 2.5 micrometres or smaller in length – in 48% of the country’s cities are more than 10 times higher than the 2021 WHO air quality guideline level. 

Vehicular emissions, industrial waste, smoke from cooking, the construction sector, crop burning, and power generation are among the biggest sources of air pollution in India. The country’s dependence on coal, oil, and gas due to rampant electrification makes it the world’s third-largest polluter , contributing over 2.65 billion metric tonnes of carbon to the atmosphere every year.  

The months-long lockdown imposed by the government in March 2020 to curb the spread of Covid-19 led to a halt in human activities. This unsurprisingly, significantly improved air quality across the country. When comparing the Air Quality Index (AQI) data for 2019 and 2020, the daily average AQI in March-April 2019 was 656, the number drastically dropped by more than half to 306 in the same months of 2020.  

More on the topic: India’s Coal Dilemma Amid Record-Breaking Heatwave

Unfortunately, things did not last long. In 2021, India was among the world’s most polluted countries, second only to Bangladesh. The annual average PM2.5 levels in India was about 58.1 µg/m³ in 2021, “ending a three-year trend of improving air quality” and a clear sign that the country has returned to pre-pandemic levels. Scientists have linked persistent exposure to PM2.5 to many long-term health issues including heart and lung disease, as well as 7 million premature deaths each year. In November 2021, air pollution reached such severe levels that they were forced to shut down several large power plants around Delhi. 

In recent years, the State Government of the Indian capital has taken some stringent measures to keep a check on air pollution. One of which is the Odd-Even Regulation – a traffic rationing measure under which only private vehicles with registration numbers ending with an odd digit will be allowed on roads on odd dates and those with an even digit on even dates. Starting from January 2023, there will also be a ban on the use of coal as fuel in industrial and domestic units in the National Capital Region (NRC). However, the ban will not apply to thermal power plants, incidentally the largest consumers of coal. Regardless of the measures taken to curb air pollution, as the World Air Quality Report clearly shows – the AQI in India continues to be on a dangerous trajectory.

More on the topic: 15 Most Polluted Cities in the World

2. Water Pollution

Among the most pressing environmental issues in India is also water pollution. The Asian country has experienced unprecedented urban expansion and economic growth in recent years. This, however, comes with huge environmental costs. Besides its air, the country’s waterways have become extremely polluted, with around 70% of surface water estimated to be unfit for consumption. Illegal dumping of raw sewage, silt, and garbage into rivers and lakes severely contaminated India’s waters. The near-total absence of pipe planning and an inadequate waste management system are only exacerbating the situation. Every day, a staggering 40 million litres of wastewater enter rivers and other water bodies. Of these, only a tiny fraction is adequately treated due to a lack of adequate infrastructure.

In middle-income countries like India, water pollution can account for the loss of up to half of GDP growth, a World Bank report suggests. Water pollution costs the Indian government between US$6.7 and $7.7 billion a year and is associated with a 9% drop in agricultural revenues as well as a 16% decrease in downstream agricultural yields.

Besides affecting humans, with nearly 40 million Indians suffering from waterborne diseases like typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis and nearly 400,000 fatalities each year, water pollution also damages crops, as infectious bacteria and diseases in the water used for irrigation prevent them from growing. Inevitably, freshwater biodiversity is also severely damaged. The country’s rivers and lakes often become open sewers for residential and industrial waste. Especially the latter – which comprises a wide range of toxic substances like pesticides and herbicides, oil products, and heavy metals – can kill aquatic organisms by altering their environment and making it extremely difficult for them to survive.

Fortunately, the country has started addressing the issue by taking steps to improve its water source quality, often with local startups’ help. One strategy involves the construction of water treatment plants that rely on techniques such as flocculation, skimming, and filtration to remove the most toxic chemicals from the water. The upgrade process at one of the country’s largest plants located in Panjrapur, Maharashtra, will enable it to produce more than 19 million cubic metres of water a day , enough to provide access to clean water to approximately 96 million people. 

The government is also looking at ways to promote water conservation and industrial water reuse by opening several treatment plants across the country. In Chennai, a city in Eastern India, water reclamation rose from 36,000 to 80,000 cubic metres between 2016 and 2019. 

Finally, in 2019, Gujarat – a state of more than 70 million citizens – launched its Reuse of Treated Waste Water Policy , which aims to drastically decrease consumption from the Narmada River. The project foresees the installation of 161 sewage treatment plants all across the state that will supply the industrial and construction sectors with treated water.

3. Food and Water Shortages

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), India is the country expected to pay the highest price for the impacts of the climate crisis. Aside from extreme weather events such as flash floods and widespread wildfires, the country often experiences long heatwaves and droughts that dry up its water sources and compromise crops. 

Since March 2022 – which was the hottest and driest month recorded in 120 years – the North West regions have been dealing with a prolonged wave of scorching and record-breaking heat . For several consecutive days, residents were hit by temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius, while in some areas, surface land temperatures reached up to 60C. There is no doubt among experts that this unprecedented heatwave is a direct manifestation of climate change .

The heatwave has also contributed to an economic slowdown due to a loss of productivity, as thousands of Indians are unable to work in the extreme heat. The agriculture sector – which employs over 60% of the population – is often hit hard by these erratic droughts, impacting food stability and sustenance. Currently, farmers are struggling to rescue what remains of the country’s wheat crops, piling on existing fears of a global shortage sparked by the war in Ukraine.

More on the topic: Water Scarcity in India

Already among the world’s most water-stressed countries , the heatwave is causing further water shortages across the nations. Even though water tankers are keeping communities hydrated, the supply is not enough to cover the needs of all residents. But heat is not the only factor contributing to water scarcity. In an interview with the Times of India , lead researcher at Pune-based Watershed Organisation Trust Eshwer Kale described the national water policy as very ‘irrigation-centric’. Indeed, over 85% of India’s freshwater is used in agriculture. This has led to a crisis in several states, including Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. The indiscriminate use of water for irrigation, coupled with the absence of conservation efforts and the huge policy gap in managing water resources has left over 10% of the country’s water bodies in rural areas redundant. A 2019 report predicts that 21 major cities – including New Delhi and India’s IT hub of Bengaluru – will run out of groundwater by 2030, affecting nearly 40% of the population. 

4. Waste Management

Among the most pressing environmental issues in India is also waste. As the second-largest population in the world of nearly 1.4 billion people, it comes as no surprise that 277 million tonnes of municipal solid waste (MSW) are produced there every year. Experts estimate that by 2030, MSW is likely to reach 387.8 million tonnes and will more than double the current value by 2050. India’s rapid urbanisation makes waste management extremely challenging. Currently, about 5% of the total collected waste is recycled, 18% is composted, and the remaining is dumped at landfill sites .

The plastic crisis in India is one of the worst on the planet. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India currently produces more than 25,000 tonnes of plastic waste every day on average, which accounts for almost 6% of the total solid waste generated in the country. India stands second among the top 20 countries having a high proportion of riverine plastic emissions nationally as well as globally. Indus, Brahmaputra, and Ganges rivers are known as the ‘highways of plastic flows’ as they carry and drain most of the plastic debris in the country. Together with the 10 other topmost polluted rivers, they leak nearly 90% of plastics into the sea globally. 

To tackle this issue, in 2020 the government announced that they would ban the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of single-use plastics from July 1 2022 onwards . Furthermore, around 100 Indian cities are set to be developed as smart cities . Despite being still in its early phase, the project sees civic bodies completely redrawing the long-term vision in solid waste management, with smart technologies but also awareness campaigns to encourage community participation in building the foundation of new collection and disposal systems. 

You might also like: 14 Biggest Environmental Problems of 2024

5. Biodiversity Loss

Last but not least on the list of environmental issues in India is biodiversity loss. The country has four major biodiversity hotspots , regions with significant levels of animal and plant species that are threatened by human habitation: the Himalayas, the Western Ghats, the Sundaland (including the Nicobar Islands), and the Indo-Burma region. India has already lost almost 90% of the area under the four hotspots, according to a 2021 report issued by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), with the latter region being by far the worst affected.

Moreover, 1,212 animal species in India are currently monitored by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, with over 12% being classified as ‘endangered’ . Within these hotspots, 25 species have become extinct in recent years.

Due to water contamination, 16% of India’s freshwater fish, molluscs, dragonflies, damselflies, and aquatic plants are threatened with extinction and, according to the WWF and the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) , freshwater biodiversity in the country has experienced an 84% decline. 

Yet, there is more to it. Forest loss is another major driver of biodiversity decline in the country. Since the start of this century, India has lost 19% of its total tree cover . While 2.8% of forests were cut down from deforestation, much of the loss have been a consequence of wildfires, which affected more than 18,000 square kilometres of forest per year – more than twice the annual average of deforestation. 

Forest restoration may be key to India’s ambitious climate goals, but some argue that the country is not doing enough to stop the destruction of this incredibly crucial resource. Indeed, despite committing to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by 2030, Narendra Modi’s government faced backlash after refusing to sign the COP26 pledge to stop deforestation and agreeing to cut methane gas emissions. The decision was justified by citing concerns over the potential impact that the deal would have on local trade, the country’s extensive farm sector, and the role of livestock in the rural economy. However, given these activities’ dramatic consequences on biodiversity, committing to end and reverse deforestation should be a priority for India.

This article was originally published on June 17, 2022

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Climate change and environmental sustainability, unicef estimates that by 2040, almost 600 million children globally are projected to be living in areas of extremely high-water stress.

India’s average temperature has risen by around 0.7°C during 1901–2018.1 This rise in temperature is caused largely on account of greenhouse gases (GHG) induced warming leading to climate change. In 2019, India was the 7th most affected country due to climate change led extreme weather events – both in terms of the fatalities (2,267 people) as well as the economic losses (66,182 million US$ PPP).2  In fact, extreme weather events due to climate change have led to 17 out of 20 people in India being vulnerable to extreme hydrological and meteorological (or “hydromet”) disasters like flood, drought and cyclone.3    UNICEF’s 2021 report titled ‘The Climate Crisis Is a Child Rights Crisis: Introducing the Children’s Climate Risk Index’  (CCRI), presents the first child-focused global climate risk index. The report ranks India as 26th out of 163 ranked countries. This implies that children in India are among the most ‘at-risk’ to the impacts of climate change, threatening their health, education, and protection.4 The same report also shares that around 90 per cent of the world’s children breathe poisonous air every day, while air pollution is associated with some of the biggest killers of children, such as pneumonia. In fact, globally, countries in Asia (including India as per reports) and Africa experience the highest age-standardized rates of death attributable to PM2.5 as found out in the State of Global Air report for 2020.5 With 21 of the world’s 30 most polluted cities being in India (IQ Air Report, 2020), millions are at risk to respiratory and other related illnesses. A Lancet study from 2018 estimates that air pollution in India killed 1.24 million people in 2017 (12.5 per cent of total deaths). 

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In 2020, after witnessing how the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing inequities and collapsed social systems for vulnerable communities globally, UNICEF India recognized the importance of strengthening its support to communities to build their resilience against climactic and environmental shocks that could aggravate the spread of any future health outbreaks. Going forward, UNICEF India is committed to:    

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Home > Books > Forest Degradation Around the World

Deforestation in India: Consequences and Sustainable Solutions

Submitted: 05 October 2018 Reviewed: 12 March 2019 Published: 04 October 2019

DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.85804

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Deforestation is one of the most pressing environmental issues that the world is facing currently. It is the conversion of forested land to non-forested land by humans. Deforestation occurs when a land dominated by naturally occurring trees is converted to provide certain services in response to the human demand. The indiscriminate felling of trees has resulted in a reduction of 3.16% in the global forest cover from 1990 to 2015. Although India has seen an increment in the total forest cover of ca. 1%, still there are certain regions in the country that have sought a decrease in the forest cover. The main reasons attributed to the reduction in forest cover are shifting cultivation, rotational felling, other biotic pressures, diversion of forest lands for developmental activities, etc. Continuous illicit cutting of trees has impacted the microclimatic conditions, hydrological cycle, soil quality, biodiversity, etc. of the country, thereby making the country more vulnerable for any uneventful happening. Sustainable forest management practices, alternatives for shifting cultivation, promotion of plantation outside the forest and the usage of certified forest products, etc. are some of the measures that can be adopted to curb the rate of deforestation.

• deforestation
• forest cover
• sustainable solutions

Author Information

Rima kumari.

• Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Jharkhand, India

Ayan Banerjee

Rahul kumar.

• Department of Land Resource Management, School of Natural Resource Management, Central University of Jharkhand, India

Purabi Saikia *

Mohammed latif khan.

• Department of Botany, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, India

*Address all correspondence to: [email protected]

1. Background

Forest is a conditional renewable resource which can be regenerated but needs a certain period of time to maintain its sustainable functioning. In India, the forest resources have been found to be depleting at a pace which is much high [ 1 ]. Rapid industrialization, urbanization and over-exploitation have resulted not only in decline but also in permanent loss of forest cover to an alarming rate [ 2 ]. The major driver behind all these factors is the uncontrolled population growth of humans which leads to the dramatic increase in the demand for wood and forest products. The over-exploitation of forest resources has taken place beyond the sustained yields to fulfil the needs of humans, thus bringing a change in the net forest cover [ 2 , 3 ]. With the current rate of population explosion, the world population could be expected to increase from 7.6 billion to about 10 billion in the next 30 to 35 years [ 4 ]. The growing demand for food can be expected to rise by 50% in the given period, and it is a matter of serious concern. Rational utilization and proper management of the forest resources are the most viable ways to prevent mass destruction of forests and large-scale species extinction. It is necessary to find the links between the growing demands and meeting the demands in a sustainable manner. The scope of future studies must focus on the solution to establish this link by incorporating the principles of forestry, restoration ecology and natural resource economics.

Deforestation occurs when a land initially dominated by naturally occurring tree species is converted to provide certain services in response to the human demand. The UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) has defined deforestation as the conversion of forest to another land use or the long-term reduction of tree canopy cover below the 10% threshold . Forest areas around the world are majorly cleared for agriculture, logging, mining and large-scale developmental projects. The Food and Agricultural Organization [ 5 ] coordinated the Global Forest Resources Assessment (FRA) which reported a 3.16% decline in the global forest cover from 1990 to 2015, and the total forest cover stands at about 30.6% in the present time compared to 31.6% in 1990. The rate at which the forest cover is declining poses a direct threat in the near future if not checked. With an estimated annual loss of 18.7 million acres, it is evident that future demands on forest resources would certainly lead to immense competition among nations [ 6 ]. Recently, in 2016, a study from the Maryland University reported that 73.4 million acres of the global tree cover were lost. Such a destruction of this essential and self-sustaining resource puts the implementation of the principle of sustainable development as mentioned in the Brundtland Report and Sustainable Development Goals of the 1992 of Rio Earth Summit in the state of question. And, it is an urgency to conserve the forests of which a vital part is already lost.

The value of forest is simple to understand but sometimes tough to quantify. The various values of the forest have been shown in Figure 1 . Forest has a major contribution on the global economy and supports livelihood of the majority of rural populations in the world [ 7 ]. The direct uses of forest are most easy to quantify as it is directly related to economic returns. The indirect use and option value although play a major role in defining the valuation of the forest resources are seldom quantified and are being intangible in nature [ 8 ]. There is also a no-use value of the forest resources which considers leaving the current forest intact as a heritage for the future generation and for satisfaction and happiness of the current population. But, these eco-centric views alone cannot suffice the support for a change in policy and land use pattern. There are some other important values of forests that are difficult to quantify. One of the major roles that forests play is that it acts as a major carbon sink [ 9 , 10 , 11 ]. Plants utilize carbon dioxide in the process of photosynthesis and store it in the form of carbohydrates, and these carbohydrates reach the soil as dead organic matter and contribute to soil carbon sink. When forests are cleared, less CO 2 is absorbed by plants, and atmospheric CO 2 concentration increases with the passage of time due to unavailable sink. Also, there is a marked reduction in soil organic carbon with the loss of vegetation cover, thereby affecting the productivity of the ecosystem. Productivity is believed to be an indicator of carbon assimilation capacity, and hence the more productive the forests are, the more carbon it stores [ 12 , 13 , 14 ]. The tropical forests are among the most productive as well as the most threatened ecosystem in present time with the maximum rate of deforestation. Thus, it is imperative to control the rate of deforestation in order to avoid the adversities associated with it.

Different values of forests ecosystems

2. Impacts of deforestation

The value and functions of forests are immense and diverse. Similarly, the impacts of deforestation are global and commune the whole forest community. One of the major constraints in understanding the true impact of desertification on forests is the inadequacy and imprecise form of data.

2.1 Impacts on global climate

The effect of large-scale deforestation is global, but it is necessary to assess its impacts on microclimate, regional climate and global climate to form a holistic understanding of mechanism [ 15 ]. The association of deforestation with the increased CO 2 concentration in the atmosphere and changes in the mass balances and surface energy can result in climate change at the local and global level [ 16 ]. The change in land use pattern especially the clearing of forest cover affects both hydrometeorological and global CO 2 concentrations leading to more warming as CO 2 readily absorbs infrared radiation [ 17 ]. Clearing tree cover and vegetation leads to increase in albedo of the region as bare soil reflects more solar radiation than vegetation, which again is a factor for altering regional radiation flux [ 15 , 18 ]. One of the noticeable changes in regional climates occurs when the cloud formation shifts to higher elevations from lowland plains as a result of deforestation in the later area [ 19 ]. In a global scale, deforestation leads to warmer and drier weather due to the synergistic effect of reduced evapotranspiration, increased albedo and CO 2 concentration that triggers desertification, loss in biodiversity and melting of polar ice caps, ultimately leading to food insecurity. All these effects are successors of extremes in climate variation that are produced by the large-scale reduction in forest cover [ 20 ]. The estimated quantity of CO 2 added to the atmosphere due to deforestation in the tropics is roughly two billion tonnes [ 21 ]. It is interesting to note that the CO 2 emissions due to clearing of forest will almost be equivalent to 25% of what is added to the atmosphere due to anthropogenic emissions [ 22 ]. The shift in climate is somehow correlated to reducing forest cover. Further researches can clearly define the mechanisms and pathways by which these shifts are progressing and how they can be mitigated.

2.2 Impact on hydrology and soil quality

The global water cycle depends on the amount and distribution of precipitation for which one of the influencing factors is evapotranspiration [ 23 ]. There is a direct effect on drinking water on the basis of quality and quantity, fisheries and aquatic habitats, occurrence of flood and drought, life of dams on account of increase siltation and agriculture due to poor quality irrigation and crop yield [ 24 , 25 ]. It must be recognized that the protective role of forests is operative and has a major impact on urban water resources [ 26 ]. Forests play an important role in maintaining the watersheds [ 27 ]. The degraded or degrading watersheds can be recovered by forestation, but once the forest or vegetation cover is lost, the watershed becomes vulnerable to erosion. This erosion leads to siltation in the downstream areas and consequently reduces the depth of river bed increasing the chances of flood. There are two main effects of deforestation that increase the chances of flooding. One is by reducing the tree fountain effect, i.e. interception and moisture uptake by the trees would cease after deforestation reducing the moisture holding capacity of soil that leads to greater runoff and erosion. And other is by the process of soil compaction and poor soil structure that will lead to reduced organic matter content of soil devoid of vegetation cover [ 28 ]. There are severe long-term effects on soil as a cause of deforestation. During slash-and-burn or shifting cultivation, an area of forests clears and exposes the bare soil to weather extremes of high solar insolation and heavy rainfall [ 29 ]. In the absence of the forest cover and organic matter, soil could not accommodate heavy precipitation, and the fertile layers of soil used to be easily washed away ultimately reduces the long-term productivity. The effect on soil is dependent on the interrelation and synergistic effect of evapotranspiration and infiltration that are directly altered due to loss in vegetation cover [ 23 ].

Deforestation directly increases erosion and siltation rates. There is an increased risk of flooding in Yangtze River basin in China and the major river basins in East Asia and the Amazonian basin [ 23 , 30 ]. The slopes and terrains are more vulnerable to such situations. There are formations of shallow gullies which may be accounted for the concentrated flow of runoff that prevails due to long-term erosion. Cultivation and ploughing along the slopes cause rapid erosion in the areas with less vegetation cover [ 31 ]. In the Loess Plateau, the slopes of steepness greater than 15° showed shallow gully erosion as a result of cultivation activities [ 32 ]. The availability of dead vegetation can reduce the surface runoff from the early season rain and check soil erosion [ 33 ]. It is necessary to sustain the forest and vegetation cover to maintain the soil productivity and water quality of both the surface and underground sources.

2.3 Impact on biological diversity

Forests are very rich in biodiversity and store a vast gene pool, and the majority of species occur in the tropical forests. It consists of two-thirds of all known species and 65% of 10,000 species that are recognized as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) [ 34 ]. The biodiversity could be regarded as an important asset that is necessary to conserve for future utilization. The World Health Organization states that the traditional people, almost 80% of them, rely on the local biodiversity for traditional medicines. A loss in the biodiversity may directly affect their health care and well-being [ 35 ]. Another most noticeable impact of deforestation is the increasing human-wildlife conflict. The decreasing forest cover is limiting the habitats of many species due to which is forcing them to intrude with human welfare [ 36 ]. There are increasing instances of invasion and animal killing. The northern margin of West Bengal, India, forms a significant portion of the Himalaya Biodiversity Hotspot. The area has observed heavy fragmentation in the last decade, and as a result, there was a huge loss in the agricultural crop and both human and elephant life due to conflicts. There are reports of mortality of 20 elephants and 50 persons annually from this area [ 37 ]. It is also estimated that if deforestation in the Himalayas continue at the current rate, the dense forest cover (>40% canopy cover) will be restricted to 10% of land area in the Indian Himalayas by 2100. This may lead to a significant loss of 366 endemic plants and 35 endemic vertebrates [ 38 ]. The loss in biodiversity is of global concern irrespective of regional and local importance. Conserving the forest and an increase in forest cover certainly find a positive correlation with the increase and sustenance of biodiversity. Conversion of forest land to agricultural fields and other land use could be a threat to major loss in biological diversity in the near future.

2.4 Impact on economic and social welfare

Forests contribute to the world economy in terms of timber production and other forest produces. There are different contributions of forest as a means of direct employment in forestry services and other value-added contributions as recreation and aesthetics. The loss of tropical forest cover annually may account for about 45 billion US dollars [ 39 ]. The destruction of forest eliminates the sources of economic gain directly obtained and also eliminates the potential gain from the resources that the forest sustains as biodiversity, soil and water. Also, the destruction of forest increases the negative externalities in the form of increasing CO 2 concentration, risk of flood and human-wildlife conflict [ 40 ]. The proximity of settlements to protected areas further intensifies the chances of human-wildlife conflict (HWC). It is reported that settled households face high risk of HWC due to their close proximity of the Kanha National Park in Central India [ 41 ]. Deforestation has its social influence in the form of long-term effect. Development is a serious concern for indigenous community as it certainly leads to a change or shift of their culture and tradition. The cultural and religious aspects of the community are seldom preserved amid infrastructural advancement that leads to land and social conflict [ 42 ]. In a study of household survey from rural areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh state of India, it was found that the poorest of the local community gained about 30% of their living from forest produce which was claimed to be even higher than the returns from agriculture. Also, forest provides an option as safety net during the period of crisis in rural areas [ 43 ]. Various ecological services provided by the forests have been lost due to deforestation which in turn has immediate effects on the local communities dependent on these services for their daily needs. The inclusive approach for the sustainable management of forest resource is a vital consideration that considers economy as a subset of the society which in itself is a subset of the environment. Such considerations can help sustaining the constantly declining forest cover and its long-term impacts.

3. Forest cover status in India

The forest cover was found to be increased by ca. 1% for the year 2017 which is 21.54% of the total geographic area when compared to that of forest cover status in 2015 which is a positive sign towards the constant efforts that are being put in to protect the forest ( Figure 2 ). This positive change in the forest cover is mainly attributed to the conservation and management practices that include afforestation activities, participation of local peoples for better protection measures in plantation areas and traditional forest areas, expansion of trees outside forest, etc. Also, with this increase in the forest cover, the country has procured 8th position among the top 10 countries reporting the greatest annual forest area gain. Although there has been an increase in the total forest cover in India, still there are certain regions within the country that has sought a reduction in the same ( Figure 3 ). The main reasons attributed for this reduction are shifting cultivation, rotational felling, other biotic pressures, diversion of forest lands for developmental activities, etc. [ 44 ]. A transition in the various forest cover classes has also occurred over the past. The present status of forest cover (%) of India belonging to various forest cover classes has been shown in Figure 4 . It has been found that there is a reduction in the moderately dense forest and an increment in the open forest depicting degradation of forest cover to some extent. Changes within the forest cover classes result in decrease in the production capacity, thereby leading to forest degradation [ 45 ]. Control and regular check of these activities can help in strengthening the conservatory efforts of forest protection. This is the necessity of the present time to conserve the forests in order to sustain the vital ecosystems and the major carbon sink to combat the effects of global climate change and ultimately maintain the environmental balance.

Forest cover status in India for the last 30 years (1987 to 2017).

MODIS-based land use/land cover map of India for the year (a) 2001 and (b) 2017.

Forest cover (%) of India for the year 2017 (Source: [ 44 ]).

4. Case studies of forest disturbances from different parts of India

Forests are an invaluable resource that is being subjected to so many threats. In order to protect our forests, it is very much necessary to understand the reasons behind their destruction. Differentiating the agents and causes of deforestation will enable in understanding the same [ 36 ]. Several disturbances within the forest directly or indirectly contribute in destruction of the forest. This can be interpreted from the results obtained while surveying in different forest patches in India.

4.1 Disturbances in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is one of the states that has more than 75% forest cover and has the maximum very dense forest cover type [ 44 ]. The state is highly diverse in terms of climate as well as forest cover with tropical, sub-tropical, temperate and alpine forests having higher NDVI (≥7.0) [ 46 ]. However, the pressure on forest resources is consistently increasing with the rise in population, development activities, large number of wood-based industries and unsustainable land use practices resulting in their degradation [ 47 ]. This has also resulted in decrease in the forest cover of the state [ 44 ]. Several disturbances were being observed during the field survey in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh during 2007 to 2010. The major disturbances that were found include lopping, cut stumps, litter collection, soil removal, grazing, fire, NTFP collection and fuelwood collection ( Figure 5 ). Of these, fuelwood collection was found to be the most recurrent activity followed by grazing. Generally, fuelwood collection has not been considered as the major cause of deforestation but leads to the same in certain regions with reduced forest area such as in the Philippines, Thailand and parts of Central America [ 36 ]. Forest fire has also been observed as an occasional event in certain parts of Arunachal Pradesh. Fires are generally used as a tool in clearing the forest for shifting cultivation which is one of the major agricultural practices performed in the state. Fires when used responsibly act as a valuable tool in managing forest and agriculture, but when abused, it can lead to deforestation [ 48 , 49 ]. Other disturbances that can be an indicator of deforestation include NTFP collection and presence of cut stumps in certain forests. Forests of the state are highly diverse in endemic as well as nonendemic species, which need intensive monitoring and management to conserve the species-rich ecosystems from ever increasing anthropogenic pressure and changing climatic conditions [ 50 ].

Major disturbances in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh.

4.2 Disturbances in the forests of Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is among one of the states of India which is endowed with rich and diverse forests and comprises the largest forest cover in the country [ 44 ]. This is mainly because of the efforts that the state has put in to conserve and harness this invaluable resource through innovative measures like community participation and decentralization (MP) [ 51 ]. Even after these continuous efforts, there are certain regions within the state where the occurrence of several types of disturbances in the forest has been found. The common disturbances that were being observed during the field survey (2017–2019) include fire, grazing, fuelwood collection, forage removal, litter collection, NTFP collection, lopping, thatch collection, root collection, soil removal, etc. ( Figure 6 ). Among all these fire has been found as the major recurrent type of disturbance in the forests of Madhya Pradesh. Other major disturbances were grazing followed by fuelwood collection. Since every type of deforestation is not intentional but some which are the results of amalgamation of anthropogenic and natural factors like wildfires and subsequent overgrazing can prevent the growth of young trees [ 52 ] and thus eventually degrade the quality and productivity of the forest.

Major disturbances in the forests of Madhya Pradesh.

4.3 Disturbances in the forests of Jharkhand

The name of the state ‘Jharkhand’ itself connotes ‘area of land covered with forests’ and has been exhibiting a unique relation with forests since time immemorial [ 53 ]. During the forest cover assessment [ 44 ], a net increase of 29 sq. km in the forest cover has been observed in the state which is mainly because of the plantation and conservation efforts within recorded forest areas. Although, there was an increment of 314 sq. km in the forest cover within the recorded forest areas, because of the felling of trees outside the forests area, its effect on forest cover has been offset. Also, several types of disturbances can be seen within the forest areas during the field survey (2016–2018), and the major disturbances were fuelwood collection, grazing, forage removal, lopping, cut stumps, thatch collection, root collection, soil removal, litter collection and NTFPs collection ( Figure 7 ). Most of these disturbances were occasional in nature. Although these disturbances are not that recurrent, a regular check is necessary in order to prevent the forests from degrading and in achieving a sustainable forest cover. The forest management strategies should focus on the increasing demands of different timber and non-timber forest produce to conserve the plant diversity of the natural forests of the state [ 54 ].

Major disturbances in the forests of Jharkhand.

5. Joint Forest Management in India: a case study

Forest management and protection by the local communities is an age-old practice in India which can be traced back to the protective nature of the Bishnoi Community of Rajasthan towards the local forest and animals as the black buck. The idea of community-based forest management emerged in an administrative level in the 1970s and 1980s. The declaration of the Government of India in June 1990 marked the establishment of Joint Forest Communities in different India states as per the National Forest Policy of 1988. The Earth Summit of 1992 provided with a clear objective of Sustainable Forest Management to which India responded in a positive way. From an increase in the forest cover, non-timber forest product (NTFP) to conservation of native flora and fauna, a whole new realm of forest management strategy by the collaboration of forest departments and local communities aided in decelerating the degradation of natural forest in India [ 55 ]. The Participatory Forest Management (PFM) is equivalent to an informal contract in which the local communities are allowed to consume a portion of harvest and NTFP if they protect and conserve it for 5–10 years. In India there is no legal authority of the local community on the forest resource where as in other countries as in Nepal the Community Forest User Groups (CFUG) are registered under their Forest Act, 1993 [ 56 ]. It is the positive effort of the local communities of India that the area under Joint Forest Management increased from 22,017,583 ha to 2,144,000 ha in March 2006 with 106,482 recognized Joint Forest Management committees countrywide [ 57 ].

6. Mitigation measures to curb deforestation

Deforestation is a major environmental challenge which has been persistent from the past, and the situation is more worsened at present. Therefore, there is an urgent need to focus on the mitigative measures in order to prevent the distressing effects of deforestation in the near future. In order to alleviate the problem of deforestation, the strategies should be based on the underlying causes of the same. Also, the strategies for mitigating the problem of deforestation require its effective implementation that needs the recognition of the roles of national, state and municipal governments along with the pro-active role of the civil society and private society [ 36 ]. The continuous increase in the human population especially in the developing countries has resulted in enhanced pressure on the forests for human settlements and other land use practices. A reduction in the growth rate of human population plays a crucial role in reducing the practice of deforestation [ 36 ]. Alternatives to slash-and-burn agriculture can be adopted as a strategy to mitigate the deforestation by boosting the agricultural and forestry productions for the shifting cultivators ([ 58 , 59 ]). The sustainable alternatives for slash-and-burn cultivation will assist the poor farmers in leading a better life without destroying additional forests [ 60 ]. Public policies and laws with greater security, accessibility to the minimal inputs required to maintain or enhance food production and an opportunity to the cultivators to market their products will aid in the sustainability of shifting cultivation systems [ 61 ].

Another strategy that can be applied to control the rate of deforestation is through the adoption of sustainable agroforestry, sustainable logging, agro-pastoral production systems, etc. [ 62 ]. The sustainable forest management practices can be promoted only if it is ecologically, economically and socially sustainable [ 36 ]. Agroforestry has been considered as one of the methods to curb deforestation which in turn aid in reduction of CO 2 emissions and mitigation of climate change effect [ 63 , 64 ]. The adoption of agroforestry practices has resulted in an increase in the income of agroforestry adopters as compared to that of non-agroforestry adopters and has also contributed towards improving soil fertility, reducing deforestation and conserving soil and water [ 65 ]. The provision of protected areas is one of the key steps towards an attempt to reduce deforestation which is generally motivated through biodiversity conservation [ 34 ]. Also, the global endeavours to reduce tropical deforestation are dependent heavily on the establishment of protected areas. It has been found that protection reduced deforestation as approximately 10% of the protected forests would have been deforested if they would have not been protected [ 66 ]. Tropical protected areas reduced deforestation which was liable for around one-tenth of total anthropogenic carbon emissions, thus playing a significant role in mitigating the effects of climate change and protecting biodiversity and ecosystem services [ 67 ]. Similarly, a total loss of 15.4% in the unprotected mangrove cover was compensated by the 15.7% rise in the protected mangrove cover (protected by government as per Ramsar Convention) which resulted in a net increase of 13.3% in mangrove cover across India in the last 25 years [ 68 ]. Implementation of forest certification can be among one of the strategies to control deforestation around the world. Forest certification is a process through which the producers identify their products in the marketplace and receive greater market accessibility and higher prices for their products by fulfilling certain stringent sustainable forestry standards [ 69 ]. Certification has played an important role in protecting Penten forests from 1986 to 2007, and the certified forests experience 20 times less deforestation than non-certified areas [ 70 ]. Thus, certification of forest can play a major role in controlling deforestation since the timber certification was found to be negatively related with deforestation, i.e. the increase in the certification process has resulted in a declination in the deforestation rate [ 71 ].

7. Role of Indian government in forest conservation

The Indian Forest Act, 1927: The act is an amalgamation of laws relating to forests, the transit of forest produce and the duty leviable on timber and other forest produces. It defines the procedures for declaring an area of a reserved forest, a protected forest or a village forest by the state government. With the amendment in the Act in 2012, it also prohibited the fresh clearances in forests and setting fire in a reserved forest.

Forest Conservation Act, 1980 (with an amendment in 1988): The main purpose of the proposition of this act was to conserve the forests and to look into the matters connected therewith or ancillary or incidental thereto. With the implementation of this act, a prior approval of the Central Government is required for any sort of diversion of forest areas for the non-forestry purposes.

[ 73 ]: The establishment of the National Forest Policy was also among one of the steps taken by the Government of India in order to ensure compensatory afforestation, essential environmental safeguards, sustainable utilization, maintenance, restoration and enhancement of forest areas.

Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: The wildlife protection act was enacted basically to protect wild animals, birds and plants and for matters connected therewith or ancillary or incidental thereto with a view to ensure the ecological and environmental security of the country.

The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006: The act was framed with the purpose to recognize and vest the forest rights and occupation in forest land in forest dwelling scheduled tribes and other traditional forest dwellers who have been residing in such forests for generations but whose rights could not be recorded. These recognized rights of the forest dwelling scheduled tribes and other traditional forest dwellers include the responsibilities and authority for sustainable use, conservation of biodiversity and maintenance of ecological balance which in turn aid in strengthening the conservation regime of the forests while ensuring livelihood and food security of the forest dwellings scheduled tribes and other traditional forest dwellers.

Apart from these laws, the Government of India has also established Forest Survey of India (FSI), an organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, whose primary work is to gather and evaluate the country’s forest wealth through a nationwide survey to measure forest areas [ 74 ]. This in turn aids in determining the factors and drivers behind the loss or gain in forest cover of any particular region in India. Another council, i.e. the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), was established by the Government of India in 2009 as a National Advisory Council under the chairmanship of the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for the monitoring, technical assistance and evaluation of compensatory afforestation activities. This was particularly meant to promote afforestation and regeneration activities as a way of compensating for forest land diverted to non-forest uses [ 75 ]. Certain scheme such as Integrated Forest Protection Scheme (IFPS) was being formulated by the government to save the forests from fire. The scheme was designed by combining the forest fire protection and management technique along with forest conservation. Various other missions and programmes such as the National Mission for a Green India (NMGI) and National Afforestation Programme (NAP) were also being launched by the Government of India where the main aim of NMGI was to improve the quality of five million hectares of degraded forests and to bring another five million hectares of non-forest areas under forest cover through social and farm forestry. On the other hand, the NAP was launched with the objective to develop the forest resources with people’s participation, with a focus on improving the livelihood of the forest-fringe communities, especially the poor [ 75 ].

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has been optimistic in strengthening the role of women in conservation of forest at local community levels since long. The National Forest Policy [ 73 ], for the first time, acknowledged the necessity of including woman members in forestry schemes. The Joint Forest Management Policy of 1990 mandated woman representatives not less than 40% in general body and 50% in executive body of the local forestry institutions like the JFM committee. Later in 2002, the Biodiversity Authority of India reframing the local biodiversity management committee structure mandated the reservation of one-third of its members as women. Thus, this understanding of the role of women in the local-level conservation measures and implementation of related rules has aided in improving the management of forest in rural regions of the country [ 76 ].

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Environmental Pollution and Degradation

Last updated on February 3, 2024 by ClearIAS Team

What is the Environment?

The environment is the physical surroundings of a person, a part of which they are, and on which they depend for activities including physiologic function, production, and consumption. The natural resources in his physical environment include air, water, and land as well as plants, animals, and ecosystems.

Table of Contents

Pollution and Pollutants

Pollution is any unfavorable alteration in the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of our environment, including the air, water, and soil, that may or will hurt people or other species as well as the life support systems of our biosphere. Pollutants can be natural, such as volcanic ash, and can also be created by human activity, such as trash or runoff produced by factories.

Categorization of Pollutant

According to the origin, pollutants are categorized as:

• Natural: A natural pollutant is a pollutant created by substances of natural origin such as volcanic dust.
• Anthropogenic: Anthropogenic pollutants are created by human activities.

According to their nature of disposal, pollutants are grouped into:

• Biodegradable pollutants: Biodegradable materials such as human and animal wastes, agro-based residues, and fertilizers can also pose a threat if their quantities or inputs exceed the “assimilative capacity of the environment.
• Non-biodegradable pollutants: The non-biodegradable pollutants such as heavy metals, and pesticides, move through the food chain and may get magnified to dangerous levels in higher trophic level organisms. Some of these combine with other compounds and produce toxic substances.

As per their existence in nature, pollutants are categorized as:

• Quantitative Pollutants: These occur in nature and become pollutants when their concentration reaches beyond a threshold level. E.g. carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxide.
• Qualitative Pollutants: These do not occur in nature and are man-made. E.g. fungicides, herbicides, DDT etc.

According to the form in which they persist after release into the environment, pollutants are categorized as:

• Primary Pollutants: Pollutants released into the environment as a result of some natural and/or human activity, e.g., carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, sulfur dioxide, suspended particulate matter, and hydrocarbons.
• Secondary Pollutants: formed by the chemical interaction of primary pollutants with atmospheric gases and moisture, often catalyzed by sunlight are known as secondary pollutants e.g. ozone (O.), peroxy acyl nitrates (PAN), aldehyde, sulphuric acid, and nitric acid.

Causes of Environmental Degradation

Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the environment caused by the deterioration of resources including soil, water, and air; the loss of ecosystems; and the extinction of wildlife.

The main contributors to environmental degradation include modern urbanization, industrialization, population expansion, deforestation, etc. Unplanned urbanization and industrialization have contaminated the water, air, and sound systems.  The air is additionally polluted by the smoke produced by automobiles and industries, which includes nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, and chlorofluorocarbon.

Climate Change

The release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere causes climate change . It mostly results from the burning of fossil fuels, agricultural emissions, and changes in land use brought on by the eradication, clearing, and burning of forests.

The biological and socioeconomic repercussions of climate change are already evident, and its anticipated effects have the potential to significantly alter the global mean surface temperature, sea level, ocean circulation, precipitation patterns, climatic zones, species distributions, and ecosystem function.

The rapid population growth and economic development in the country are degrading the environment through the uncontrolled growth of urbanization and industrialization, expansion and intensification of agriculture, and the destruction of natural habitats.

On just 2.4% of the world’s land, India is home to 17% of the world’s population. Population pressure on the environment is linked to environmental pressures like biodiversity loss, air and water pollution, and increased demand for arable land. Population affects the environment primarily through the use of natural resources and the generation of waste.

Stratospheric Ozone Depletion

Because of the pollution caused by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the atmosphere, stratospheric ozone is being depleted. It is a serious issue because the absence of protective ozone at high altitudes causes an increase in the amount of harmful solar ultraviolet (UV-B) radiation that penetrates the surface of the earth, leading to a variety of health problems and ecological effects.

Poverty is said to be both cause and effect of environmental degradation. The fast increment of human numbers joined with urgent poverty and rising levels of utilization are draining natural resources on which the vocation of present and future ages depends.

Degraded Air Quality

Worldwide, Approximately a billion people live in areas that mostly comprise industrial cities, and they are said to be the ones who are most affected by air pollution. The deterioration of air quality is caused by several air pollutants, but some major ones are particulate matter, such as oxides of nitrogen, oxides of sulfur, lead, and other aromatic compounds (such as benzene).

Degraded Water Quality

Impurities brought on by contaminants can also seriously affect water quality, having a variety of negative repercussions on both the environment and human health.

Numerous other human activities, such as mining and industrial processes that may release harmful effluents, contribute to water contamination. Other significant factors contributing to the marine environment’s substantial degradation are oil spills, plastic waste buildup, and biological accumulation of persistent organic pollutants.

Read:  Water Pollution Prevention

Deforestation

It has been estimated that around half of the world’s mature forests have been cleared by humans. Deforestation occurs for a variety of reasons, but the majority of deforestation now occurs when tropical forests are cleared for agriculture and pastoralism; destruction of trees for charcoal production, and the selective logging of forests for timber.

Effect of Environmental Pollution and Degradation

Environmental pollution and degradation have an impact on several aspects of life:

Public Health

Public health is threatened by pollution, a lack of fresh water, and population growth. According to the WHO, unhealthful settings are directly responsible for about one out of every four deaths each year.

Water-Related Challenges

According to a UNICEF report, 2.1 billion people do not have access to securely managed drinking water services, and 4.5 billion do not have access to safely managed sanitation facilities.

Additionally, diarrheal infections claim the lives of 340,000 children under five years of age every year. Water scarcity already affects four out of every 10 people and according to UNISDR, 90% of natural disasters are water-related.

Natural resources are strained by rapid population growth, which causes environmental degradation. Simply said, a growing population increases the need for food, clothing, and housing.

Ecosystems & Endangered Species

Both ecosystems and species are impacted by the long list of environmental problems that exist on this planet. In fact, by 2050, one in ten plant and animal species is predicted to become extinct.

Way Forward

• Social Awareness: The need to raise public awareness of the consequences of pollution is urgent.
• Population Control: If the environment is to be protected it is essential to check population growth.
• Environment Conservation Acts Implementation: The Environment (Protection) Act was passed in 1986 in India to check the deterioration in the quality of the environment. Such government measures should be strictly enforced.
• Control over Industrial and Agricultural Pollution: Controlling the air and water pollution brought on by industrial development is essential for environmental conservation. The use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers should be avoided to prevent agricultural pollution.
• Afforestation: An extensive afforestation campaign should be launched in the interest of environmental protection.
• Water Management: Provisions should be made to provide rural people with clean drinking water and river water should be made clean.
• Management of Solid Waste: Planned management of solid waste is very essential.

Read: Environmental Regulatory Bodies

Environmental pollution and degradation can have a disastrous effect on a country or region’s social, economic, and environmental systems as well as the entire planet’s ecosystem. Environmental catastrophes pose a threat to the legacy of a healthy and supportive environment left for future generations. To reduce the dangers associated with environmental degradation and its contributing elements, (such as climate change) governments, international organizations, and communities must collaborate at all levels.

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Article Written By: Priti Raj

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Environmental protection in India

• Legal Blogs
• November 26, 2022

Introduction

Environmental Protection is one of the fundamental requirements for any nation’s overall development. Environmental Protection is improving and maintaining the quality of the environment. It focuses on the aspect that no part of nature is affected by any activity of human beings. India is now a country that experiences strong GDP growth.

This implies that when there is an increase in urbanization, industrialization, and use of resources the nation experiences a steady rise. All of these advancements cause a backlash on the environment such as pollution, water scarcity, and rising temperature. This leads the nation to adopt sustainable development for the protection of the environment.

History of environmental protection

To understand the present-day environmental law protection system, we need to look into the history of where the protection of the environment started. A look into the past Indian traditions and practices of protecting the environment will give an idea.

The evolution of environmental protection has been divided into four phases-

Ancient Indian policies

Even the pre-Vedic Indian Valley Civilization, which flourished in northern India around 5,000 years ago, can be said to have been conscious of the environment. All this has been gathered from archaeological evidence.

The awareness about hygiene and sanitation is evident from the construction of houses, streets, wells, and many more. Cleanliness was one of the main focuses of the Vedic culture.

The Charka Samhita gives many verses about the use of water for maintaining its purity. There were also many punishments prescribed for the man if he or she cut a tree or harm the environment.

Medieval Indian policies

During the Mughals, forests were considered for hunting. During this period there were no such major environmental protection acts to laws took place.

British Indian policies

There were some of the major laws for environmental protection introduced such as the Shore Nuisance (Bombay and Kolaba) Act, 1853 imposed restrictions on the fouling of seawater; The Merchant Shipping Act of 1858 dealt with the prevention of sea pollution by oil; The Fisheries Act, 1897; The Bengal Smoke Nuisance Act of 1905; Bombay Smoke Nuisance Act of 1912.

After independence policies

The Constitution of India did not mainly deal with any such environmental protection acts or subjects. In 1972, the Stockholm Declaration focused on environmental protection. The National Council for Environmental Policy and Planning was set up in 1972 to focus on environmental protection.

Another act named the Wildlife (Protection) Act, of 1972 , aimed at the logical and contemporary management of wildlife. Up to the present, there have been several policies and laws enacted for the protection of the environment.

Present-day environmental protection acts and policies

Before the independence, the laws and policies for the environmental protection act existed but after the independence at the Stockholm Conference, the National Council for Environmental Policy and Planning was established in 1972. Later, this became the Ministry of Environment and Forests. This is today one of the main bodies for the protection of the environment.

Let us now discuss some of the important and prevalent legislation for environmental protection:

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

The purpose of this act was to prevent and control water pollution and to maintain or restore the country’s water wholesomeness. This act mainly focuses to prohibit the discharge of pollutants into the water bodies and also puts penalties on those who do not comply with the said acts.

At the Centre, the CPCB, and at the State, the SPCBs are there to lay down the standards for the protection of the water bodies. The cess is gathered to supplement the funds available to the Central Board and State Boards for the prevention and control of water pollution, which was established by the 1974 Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act. The Act last underwent revision in 2003.

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981

The purpose of this act is to prevent and control air pollution and also maintain the pollutants realized into the air. the Boards at the Centre and the State have been built to carry out the purpose of air protection. There were standards established under the Air Acts for the protection of Air quality.

These standards were laid down by prohibiting the use of polluting fuels and substances in the air. Through this Act, the State was empowered with the right to declare any area as having polluted air.

The Environment Protection Act, 1986

The purpose of this act was to protect and improve environmental conditions. Through this act, there is a framework established for the studying and implementation of the long-term requirements of the environment for its protection.

The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010

This is a tribunal established to provide a basis for the effective disposal of cases that are related to environmental protection and conservation. This Act had the establishment of NGT to deal with environmental laws.

In light of the National Green Tribunal’s establishment under the National Green Tribunal Act of 2010 and notification number S.O. 2570(E) dated October 18, 2010, the National Environment Appellate Authority established under section 3(1) of the National Environment Appellate Authority Act of 1997 stands dissolved.

Some of the other acts that are important from a viewpoint of environmental protection are:

• The Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
• The Forest Conservation Act 1980.
• Public Liability Insurance Act 1991.
• The Biological Diversity Act 2022.

Constitutional aspects of environmental protection

The of India is a living document and has in past years invalidated a lot of provisions related to environmental protection and conservation . The provisions such as who has the power to make laws regarding the environmental laws, how the laws are to be enacted, what can be the possible ways to protect the environment, and many more.

Under the Environmental Protection Act, of 1986 the word environment has been defined as “environment includes water, air and land and the interrelationship which exists among and between air, water and land, and human beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-organism, and property”.

Provision of the Constitution

At the Stockholm Conference, the Global Movement led the establishment of the 42nd Amendment of the Indian Constitution in 1976 . The environmental provisions were added to the Constitution. An example is that Article 48-A [1] was added to the Directive Principles of State Policy by this particular amendment.

Fundamental rights

These Articles state the right to a clean environment:

Article 14 states that every citizen is entitled to equality before the law and also gets equal protection from the law. This article is a way to have the state practice fairness between the citizens.

Article 19(1) can also be used in a way to deal with noise pollution.

Article 21 states that no person shall be deprived of the right to life and personal liberty.

Article 32 states the right to file a petition for constitutional remedies. Petitions can be filed under this section for matters related to environmental protection.

Fundamental duties

Article 51-A(g) : This article mentions that every citizen must preserve and enhance the natural environment such as the forests, lakes, rivers, animals, etc. Also, both the State and every person have the responsibility to preserve the environment.

Directive principles of state policy

Article 48-A: This article states that the State shall make every effort to protect the nation’s forests and wildlife, as well as to preserve and advance the environment. [2]

Importance of environmental protection

There is keen importance on environmental protection for the following reasons:

• To lessen pollution of the air, water, and land.
• To make it easier to protect natural resources for future generations.
• To make sure that biodiversity is protected.
• To put sustainable development into practice.
• To re-establish ecological harmony.
• To protect the environment from the damaging effects of global warming.

Environmental protection: need of the hour in India

As it is evident that the GDP of India is increasing and improving day by day. India is making constant efforts to become more and more self-sufficient and improve its economy.

As improving the economy requires more advanced technology, the advancement of technology is proportional to the harm the environment is causes by certain activities that the industries cause. Industrialization, urbanization, and all the means to lead a better life and have a clean and pure environment to live in.

So, for the conservation of the environment, India took some crucial steps such as obtaining sustainable development. India has brought measures for preserving water and energy resources, droughts, and many more.

There has to be a balance struck between economic development and the development of the environment. Certain steps can be taken, they are mentioned below:

• Sustainable development: In these, measures are taken to use the resources in a manner in which there is sufficient left for the future generation to use. India has adopted these models for better utilization of resources and the protection of the environment.
• Advancement and adoption of technology: India is taking certain steps to improve technology and advance it. There are steps taken such as Make in India, Smart Manufacturing, and Skill India.
• The three-fold collaboration: The collaboration and alliance between the industry, government and regulatory bodies will help the country to maintain the relationship between environmental protection and economic development. All the factors that contribute to the economy should in a combined way put efforts into the same.

Some of the recent environmental protection factors

There have been certain factors for the protection of the environment in respect of power generation the environment:

Special purpose vehicle (SPV) for afforestation

This is being set up jointing by NTPC and Central Power Sectors. This helps in the reduction of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Fly ash utilisation action plan

As per the Indian reports, all power stations together produce 90 million tonnes of fly ash per year. This plan has made several efforts and recommendations to use the fly ash in the production of cement, bricks, paving materials, floor tiles, wall panels, etc., as well as in farming, road building, land-filling, and mine backfilling.

Clean development mechanism (CDM)

The Tata Energy Research Institute (TERI) has engaged in providing consultancy services for concerns related to environmental protection. Project development, baseline surveys for each project, negotiations with CDM parties, identification of counterpart CDM parties from developed countries, cost of CO2 monitoring and verification of CO2 emission reduction, and project implementation oversight are all included in the terms of reference.

This was established in November 1975 to maintain Sustainable Power Development. As per the reports, with an installed capacity of 21,749 MW (19% of India’s installed capacity), contributing to 26% of the nation’s total generation, and having a high availability factor of its power plants, National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd. (NTPC) is now India’s largest power utility.

As to sum up, India is a developing country and is trying every day to make efforts for the improvement and advancement of the same. The judiciary of India has brought up a lot of laws and regulations for the same. The government is focusing on improving the economic conditions without the degradation of the environment.

Nature remaining intact is important for the people, flora, and fauna to survive. Recently, India has made a lot of new addition for the enhancement of the condition of the environment and its conservation as it is. Also, there have been constitutional provisions attached to environmental protection. There are fundamental duties, rights, and directive principles for the same.

The Indian government has passed and is working on many aspects that keep the economy growing and also protect the environment at the same time without any cost. Some of the major works are such as Make in India or Skill India. As for this moment, there are still advancements and improvements being made.

References:

[1] Indian Constitution.

[2] Sher Singh v. Himachal Pradesh it was held that “the residents of the country were found to have a fundamental right to a clean, safe, and dignified environment”.

This article has been authored by Suhani Gupta.

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Environmental Protection Essay

The environmental protection essay is a great way to assist the little ones in understanding how to protect the environment. Environmental protection has emerged as one of the major challenges in the world for centuries and has always been important to humans. As of late, it has seen a dramatic change in environmental policy, primarily through the use of the law. One way that law is used to protect the environment is by enacting government regulations on pollution and preventing environmental degradation.

Environmental protection is an integral part of today’s society, but many people lack even basic knowledge on what they can do to help protect our environment. The destruction of the environment and the depletion of natural resources are significant issues that are ever-present. In this essay, there will be a list of ideas for participating in the fight against these problems. This essay on environmental protection describes the meaning and importance of environmental protection and also teaches the right method to preserve the environment.

How to Protect the Environment Essay

Environmental protection is the practice of protecting the natural environment against various human activities that degrade, destroy, or otherwise reduce its quality for future generations. Environmental protection has become a widespread issue in recent decades as human pressures on the environment have increased exponentially.

There are many ways to protect the environment. One way to protect the environment is by recycling – a way to reduce the carbon footprint and conserve natural resources. It also decreases the amount of waste that goes into landfills, which causes less pollution to water bodies. Another way is to use eco-friendly products in your life. This can contribute to a healthier environment by reducing the number of harmful chemicals and toxins in the air, ground, and water.

To protect the environment, we should be conscious of what we consume and how we consume it. Many factors affect the quality of our air, water, and land, but it is best to start small by always considering its impact on the environment.

Afforestation and tree plantation help protect our environment by reducing global warming, soil erosion, etc. We can reduce our carbon footprint through carpooling instead of driving, which is cheaper and reduces our energy usage and emissions.

For more essays similar to the environmental protection essay, visit BYJU’S website. You can also find more exciting kids’ learning resources, such as poems, stories, worksheets, etc., on the website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is environmental protection.

Environmental protection is the practice of protecting the natural environment by maintaining the quality of air, water, land or ecosystem. The effects that humans have on their environment create issues for the natural environment. This can include air pollution, water pollution, and degradation of land. Governments and people are involved with environmental protection through policies and regulations.

How to protect the environment?

Environmental protection has seen a dramatic change, especially through environmental laws. These laws call for reducing pollution and environmental degradation.

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Conclusion: Environmental Protection—Our Common Responsibility

• First Online: 06 January 2023

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• Alberto A. C. C. Pais 4 &
• Telma Encarnação 4 , 5 , 6  

Part of the book series: Environmental Challenges and Solutions ((ECAS))

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Environmental pollution is increasing globally and, together with climate change, is a priority on the environmental, political, business, and scientific agendas. Air, land, and water pollution have an impact on all ecosystems and our lives and can jeopardize our future and future generations.

The importance of policies on public awareness and perception is recognized and can have an effective role in the protection of the environment. Policymakers, companies and industries, civil society, scientists, all sectors of society should be involved for the same purpose; coordinated efforts at an international level are needed to tackle all the challenges planet Earth face.

Therefore, it is crucial to stimulate the discourse, narrative, and debate about environmental pollution and degradation and mitigation strategies.

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Roberts KE, Valkan RS, Cook CN (2018) Measuring progress in marine protection: a new set of metrics to evaluate the strength of marine protected area networks. Biol Conserv 219:20–27

Xu G, Shi Y, Sun X, Shen W (2019) Internet of Things in marine environment monitoring: a review. Sensors 19:1711–1731

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Pais, A.A.C.C., Encarnação, T. (2023). Conclusion: Environmental Protection—Our Common Responsibility. In: Encarnação, T., Canelas Pais, A. (eds) Marine Organisms: A Solution to Environmental Pollution?. Environmental Challenges and Solutions. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-17226-7_13

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Essay on Effects of Deforestation for Students and Children

500 words essay on the effects of deforestation.

The world is losing most of its natural resources as and when you read this. There are many factors which are making this happen, however, one major concern is that of deforestation. Human activities are resulting in deforestation at a very rapid rate. Moreover, the effects of this activity are very dangerous. We do not realize the damage we are causing to living beings as well as the vegetation by cutting down trees. It will be clearer if we understand the impact of deforestation and make attempts to prevent it.

Impact of Deforestation

When we cut down even a single tree , the impact it has is huge. Now imagine if we clear out whole forests only altogether, how damaging would that be. We cut down forests to meet the needs of humans. In order to fulfill the agricultural , commercial , industrial , residential and other needs we remove forests . Most of the earth was covered with forests until a hundred years ago, however, now we don’t have much of them left.

Deforestation causes disruption in the ecological balance. Moreover, it also interferes with the lives of wildlife and human beings as well. Firstly, when there won’t be many forests left, the water cycle of the earth will get disturbed. There won’t be enough trees left to absorb the water. Moreover, it will cause floods and droughts too. Similarly, soil erosion will be another effect of deforestation.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Other than that, the climate will experience massive change. Global warming is also happening partly due to deforestation only. The oxygen level in the atmosphere will drop down by a great number and thus naturally carbon dioxide levels will increase. Most importantly, the wildlife is losing their habitats due to deforestation. Forests are their only home and with no place left to go, they either lose their lives or wreak havoc in the cities.

Therefore, we must all come together to stop this from happening and saving our earth as well as our lives. Humans must not be so selfish so as to make other animals homeless to shelter themselves. We must not damage our vegetation to create a beautiful garden for ourselves.

How to Prevent Deforestation?

We can do a lot of things that will contribute to preventing deforestation. To begin with, do not waste paper. The more demand there will be the more supply will happen. This way, trees will keep getting cut to meet these needs.

Similarly, the government must put a ban on deforestation so the big firms can find other alternatives instead of clearing forests for commercial and industrial needs. The laws must be made stringent enough and also implemented properly to prevent it.

Moreover, there must be measures taken to control the increasing population . As there are more mouths to feed and fewer resources, our nature and forests are getting burdened. There is not adequate supply to meet the ever-increasing demands of the population. Thus, the lesser the demand, the better the conditions of the forests as well.

FAQs on Effects of Deforestation

Q.1 What is the impact of deforestation?

A.1 Deforestation has many seriously damaging effects. It disrupts the water cycle and increases the level of carbon dioxide and decreases oxygen levels. Further, it also causes floods, droughts, soil erosion and more.

Q.2 How can we prevent deforestation?

A.2 We can do a joint effort to prevent deforestation. Do not waste paper so there will be lesser cutting of trees. The government must put a ban on deforestation. The government must practice population control so as to not burden forests to meet the ever-increasing needs.

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Climate Change: LASEPA Reitrates Commitment To Environmental Policing

… Partners Dangote, NB To Sponsor Essay Competition On Drought Resilience

LAGOS – The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing government-sustainable environmental policies aimed at mitigating climate change effects as the State prepares to commemorate the June 5 annual World Environment Day celebration, aimed at promoting a circular economy and ensure environmental protection against drought and desertification.

In achieving this, the agency stated that it is scaling up its advocacy campaigns in schools and colleges to carry youths along in the implementation of government reform policies geared towards combating climate change and greenhouse effect for sustainable environmental growth.

As part of its school advocacy programmes for the World Environment Day celebration for the year 2024, the Agency stated that it is partnering with Dangote Industries and the Nigerian Breweries to sponsor an essay competition among undergraduate students across all tertiary institutions in the State as a way of involving youths in the task of environmental preservation.

Dr. Tunde Ajayi, LASEPA’s General Manager, who disclosed this at the weekend during a pre-event Press Conference held in Alausa, stated that the essay competition is aimed at raising the consciousness of youth on environmental preservation, desertification and other climate change mitigating efforts towards achieving a sustainable environment for a healthy living.

The Theme of the Year 2024 World Environment Day, according to the LASEPA’s Boss is: “Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience”, which also forms the topic on which undergraduate participants in the competition will be tasked.

He said participating students are expected to give a write-up that will address environmental challenges in the State while exploring innovative solutions that could be useful in policy formulation.

The General Manager revealed that the essay competition is open to undergraduate students of all tertiary institutions in the State and will attract a cash prize of N500,000 for the overall winner, while the second and third runners-up will go home with N300, 000 N200, 000 respectively.

Ajayi explained further that there would be other consolation prizes for the participants in the competition, including becoming LASEPA’s ambassador on environmental protection, gaining free access to LASEPA e-Library and LASEPA ISO-certified laboratories and other facilities for learning and research development.

He therefore urged undergraduates across all tertiary institutions in the State to take the advantage of the competition to enrich themselves in knowledge and material resources, adding that every undergraduate student in all tertiary institutions in the State is qualified to participate in the competition, adding that the entry for participation closes on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

On how to participate in the competition and other necessary guidelines, Ajayi urged interested undergraduate students to visit [email protected] or the agency’s other social media handles.

In addition, the General Manager noted that relevant information and requirements on the essay competition have been sent to all tertiary institutions in Lagos, adding that after the submission deadline on Wednesday, 5th June, 2024, a panel of judges carefully selected on merit will grade the quality of the work submitted by participants for winners to emerge.

Ajayi, who commended Dangote Industries, Nigerian Breweries and other sponsors for prioritising environmental sustainability in their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy, assured that the State government would continue to create an enabling environment for the growth of businesses in the State.

He added that the agency will not relent in implementing government policies that will guarantee a sustainable environment that is devoid of pollution or other environmental infractions detrimental to the health of the citizenry.