BAS-104/204: ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

UNIT-5
Environmental Protection, Human Population and
the Environment

Environmental Policy
Environmental policy, any measure by a government or corporation or other public or
private organization regarding the effects of human activities on the environment,
particularly those measures that are designed to prevent or reduce harmful effects of
human activities on ecosystems.
Environmental policy means the rules and plans made by governments and groups to
deal with environmental problems in a good way. These policies are very important to help
protect nature and make sure we use resources wisely for the future.

What are Environmental Policies?

Environmental policies encompass a wide range of measures aimed at protecting the

environment and promoting sustainable practices. These policies can cover various sectors
such as air and water pollution control, waste management, conservation of biodiversity,
renewable energy promotion, climate change mitigation, and more. By implementing
comprehensive environmental policies, governments strive to strike a balance between
economic development and ecological sustainability.

Working of Environmental Policy

Environmental policy dictates actions to safeguard the environment. It outlines rules for
industries and individuals. Government agencies enforce these policies. Monitoring
pollution levels is a key aspect. Fines or penalties deter violators. Environmental impact
assessments evaluate proposed projects. Conservation measures protect biodiversity.
Regular updates adapt policies to emerging challenges. Public awareness promotes eco-
friendly practices. Collaboration with international bodies enhances effectiveness.
Evaluation ensures policy goals are met. Continuous improvement is essential for
sustainable environmental management.

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List of Environmental Policies - Pre Stockholm Period

Before the Stockholm Conference held in 1972, environmental concerns were not given
significant attention globally. However, certain efforts were made at the national level to
address environmental issues, although they were relatively limited in scope.
During this period, India focused on a few key environmental policies and practices,
including:

Forest Conservation Act, 1927: This act aimed to curb deforestation and protect forests by
regulating the felling of trees and ensuring sustainable forest management practices.
Wild Birds and Animals Protection Act, 1912: This legislation sought to conserve wildlife
and protect endangered species by declaring certain areas as game sanctuaries and
national parks.

River Pollution Acts: Several acts were introduced to control the pollution of rivers caused
by industrial and domestic waste discharge.

Industrial Disputes Act, 1947: This act, although primarily concerned with labor disputes,
indirectly contributed to environmental protection by introducing provisions regarding the
welfare of workers, including their health and safety.

Environmental Policy – Post Stockholm Period (After 1972): The Stockholm Conference
marked a significant turning point in the global approach towards environmental
conservation. It led to increased awareness and action on environmental issues, prompting
nations to develop policies and institutions dedicated to environmental management.

Benefits of Environmental Policies

An environmental policy offers benefits:

 Ensures compliance with laws.
 Informs employees of their environmental responsibilities.
 Enhances cost control.
 Reduces incidents leading to liability.
 Conserves raw materials and energy.
 Improves monitoring of environmental impacts.
 Enhances process efficiency.

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Impact of Environmental Policies

 Implemented environmental policies enhance sustainability.

 British Columbia's 2012 gasoline sales tax led to an 11% to 17% reduction in sales,
indicating a willingness to explore cost-saving transportation alternatives.
 Stricter environmental policies may result in higher sustainability percentages.
 Environmental policies stimulate innovation in various ways.
 China's environmental policy employs notices, measures, 'opinions,' 'law,'
regulations, announcements, decisions, regulations, and rules to encourage
innovation.
 Diverse approaches allow environmental policies to impact the population
effectively, considering public opinions and setting standards through regulations.

Environmental Protection Act 1986

The Environment (Protection) Act was enacted in the year 1986. It was enacted with the
main objective to provide the protection and improvement of the environment and for
matters connected therewith.

Environment Protection Act (EPA)

India’s original Constitution did not contain any provision for the protection of the natural
environment. However, the Fundamental Duties, which were added by the 42nd
Amendment to the Constitution, prescribed the protection of the environment including
forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife as a duty of the citizens of the country.

This amendment also added new Directive Principles of State Policy, one of which was
Article 48A, which directed the State to protect and improve the environment and to
safeguard forests and wildlife.

These developments were a result of the United Nations Conference on Human

Environment, held in Stockholm in 1972. First, the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 was
enacted. Then, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 was passed,
followed by the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981. Then in 1986, the EPA
was passed by the Parliament, in the wake of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, which occurred
on Dec 2, 1984.

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Aims and Objectives of the Environment Protection Act

The chief aims and objectives of the Environment Protection Act, 1986 are listed below.

1. Implementing the decisions made at the United Nations Conference on Human

Environment held in Stockholm.
2. Creation of a government authority to regulate industry that can issue direct orders
including closure orders.
3. Coordinating activities of different agencies that are operating under the existing
laws.
4. Enacting regular laws for the protection of the environment.
5. Imposing punishments and penalties on those who endanger the environment,
safety and health. For each failure or contravention, the punishment includes a
prison term of up to five years or a fine of up to Rs. 1 lakh, or both. This can also be
extended for up to seven years in cases.
6. Engaging in the sustainable development of the environment.
7. Attaining protection of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.

Main Provisions of Environment Protection Act

The EPA empowers the Centre to “take all such measures as it deems necessary” in the
domain of environmental protection.

 Under the law, it can coordinate and execute nationwide programmes and plans to
further environmental protection.
 It can mandate environmental quality standards, particularly those concerning the
emission or discharge of environmental pollutants.
 This law can impose restrictions on the location of industries.
 The law gives the government the power of entry for examination, testing of
equipment and other purposes and power to analyse the sample of air, water, soil or
any other substance from any place.
 The EPA explicitly bars the discharge of environmental pollutants in excess of
prescribed regulatory standards.
 There is also in place a specific provision for handling hazardous substances, which
is prohibited unless in compliance with regulatory requirements.
 The Act empowers any person, apart from authorised government officers, to file a
complaint in a court regarding any contravention of the provisions of the Act.

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 Forest Conservation Act 1980

The Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980 (FCA, 1980) is an act by the Parliament of India
which ensures conservation of forest and its resources.

It was enacted by the Parliament of India in order to control the ongoing deforestation of
the forests of India. It came into force on October 25, 1980 containing five sections.

Amid news reports mentioning future amendments to the FCA 1980 by the Environment
Ministry, the act and its provisions become important from the current affairs perspective.

Need for Forest Conservation Act, 1980

Forests are an important resource that nature can bestow upon mankind. Therefore, it is
the duty of every citizen to preserve the ecosystems of forests. But due to rapid
deforestation, the cycle of nature is itself being disrupted. Therefore, the need to bring
about a law to ensure the preservation of forest was needed.

One of the first legal drafts to protect forest tracts was the Indian Forest Act, 1865 replaced
by a 1927 version of the same act. However, it was more geared towards protecting the
commercial interests of the British Empire in India.

The act gave authority to the British to restrict tribal activities by levying taxes on timber
and forest services. In other words, it mainly regulated the cutting of timber and flow of
raw materials rather than protecting forests.

Upon independence, the President of India enforced the Forest (Conservation) Ordinance
in 1980 which was later repealed by virtue of Section 5 of the Forest (Conservation) Act,
1980. Under the 1980 Act, the restriction was made on the use of the forests for non-forest
purposes.

Objectives of the Forest Conservation Act 1980

The aim of the Forest is to preserve the forest ecosystem of India by fulfilling the following
objectives:
1) Protect the forest along with its flora, fauna and other diverse ecological
components while preserving the integrity and territory of the forests.
2) Arrest the loss of forest biodiversity

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 3) Prevent forest lands being converted into agricultural, grazing or for any other
commercial purposes and intentions.

Features of the Forest Conservation Act 1980

The Forest Conservation Act of 1980 come with the following features:

1) The Act restricts the state government and other authorities to take decisions first
without permission from the central government.
2) The Forest Conservation Act gives complete authority to the Central government to
carry out the objectives of the act.
3) The Act levies penalties in case of violations of the provisions of FCA.
4) The Forest Conservation Act will have an advisory committee which will help the
Central government with regard to forest conservation.

Amendments to the Forest Conservation Act 1980

In order to balance economic and ecological concerns regarding the Forest Conservation
Act, 1980 several amendments were proposed by the Union Ministry of Environment,
Forest and Climate Change in March 2021. Some amendments were as follows:

a. The proposed new ‘section 1A’ created provision which exempts survey and
exploration for underground oil and natural gas. In other words, such activities will
no longer be classified as a ‘non-forest activity’ and will not require permission from
the government,
However, there will be certain conditions laid by the Central Government to carry
out such activities, one of which being, survey and drilling activities will not be
carried out within the proximity of wildlife sanctuaries.
b. Land acquired for railway networks will not be applicable to FCA and be exempt. Of
course, certain guidelines will be laid down by the Central government, which will
include planting trees to compensate for the loss of forest lands.
c. Section 2 of the FCA requires government approval for leasing forest lands not
owned by the central government for any commercial purposes to private entities.
d. This clause has been deleted in the proposed amendment. This will enable state
governments to lease forest lands without the Central government’s approval.
A new explanation to Section 2 proposes to exempt plantation of native species of
palm and oil-bearing trees from the definition of “non-forest purpose”.
The government will only impose conditions for compensatory afforestation and
payment of other levies and compensations.

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 e. The proposed amendments to FCA add to the list of non-forestry purposes activities
such as building checkpoints, fence boundary, and communication infrastructure.

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974

An Act to provide for the prevention and control of water pollution and the maintaining or
restoring of wholesomeness of water, for the establishment, with a view to carrying out the
purposes aforesaid, of Boards for the prevention and control of water pollution, for
conferring on and assigning to such Boards powers and functions relating thereto and for
matters connected therewith. WHEREAS it is expedient to provide for the prevention and
control of water pollution and the maintaining or restoring of wholesomeness of water, for
the establishment, with a view to carrying out the purposes aforesaid, of Boards for the
prevention and control of water pollution and for conferring on and assigning to such
Boards powers and functions relating thereto.

The government formulated this act in 1974 to prevent the pollution of water by industrial,
agricultural and household wastewater that can contaminate our water sources.
Wastewaters with high levels of pollutants that enter wetlands, rivers, lakes, wells as well
as the sea are serious health hazards.

Controlling the point sources by monitoring the levels of different pollutants is one way to
prevent pollution, by punishing the polluter. Individuals can also do several things to
reduce water pollution such as using biodegradable chemicals for household use, reducing
the use of pesticides in gardens, and identifying polluting sources at work places and in
industrial units where oil are or other petroleum products and heavy metals are used.
Excessive organic matter, sediments and infecting organism from hospital wastes can also
pollute our water. Citizen needs to develop a watchdog force to inform authorities to
appropriate actions against different types of water pollution. However, preventing
pollution is better than trying to cure the problems it has created, or punishing offenders.

Objectives of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974

The main objectives of the Water Act are to provide for prevention, control and abatement
of water pollution and the maintenance or restoration of the wholesomeness of water. It is
designed to assess pollution levels and punish polluters. The Central Government and State
Government have set up PCBs to monitor water pollution.

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The Water Act, 1974 with certain amendments in 1978 is an extensive legislation with
more than sixty sections for the prevention and control of water pollution. Among other
things, the Act provides for constitution of central and State Boards for preventing water
pollution, power to take water samples and their analysis, discharge of sewage or trade
effluents, appeals, revision, minimum and maximum penalties, publication of names of
offenders, offences by companies and Government departments, cognizance of offences,
water laboratories, analysis etc.

Functions of CPCB & SPCB

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) in
India play crucial roles in preventing and controlling environmental pollution, including air
and water pollution. Their functions are outlined in the Water (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Below are
the primary functions of both the Central Board for Pollution Control and State Boards for
Pollution Control:

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):

1. Setting Standards: The CPCB is responsible for setting national standards for the quality
of air and water. These standards serve as benchmarks for pollution control measures.
2. Monitoring and Surveillance: It conducts regular monitoring and surveillance of air and
water quality across the country. This includes the collection and analysis of samples to
assess pollution levels.
3. Research and Development: The CPCB engages in research and development activities
related to pollution control technologies, methodologies, and sustainable practices.
4. Advisory Role: It advises the Central Government on matters related to pollution control,
including the formulation of policies and programs.
5. Coordination: The CPCB coordinates activities between the Central Government and the
State Pollution Control Boards to ensure effective implementation of pollution control
measures.
6. Capacity Building: The board works on building capacity by organizing training programs
and workshops for personnel involved in pollution control and management.
7. Environmental Awareness: The CPCB is involved in promoting environmental awareness
and education to encourage public participation in pollution control efforts.
8. Implementation of Laws: It plays a key role in ensuring the implementation of
environmental laws, rules, and regulations at the national level.

State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs):

1. Implementation of Laws: SPCBs are responsible for implementing pollution control laws
and regulations within their respective states. They enforce standards and guidelines set by
the CPCB.

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2. Granting Consents and Authorizations: SPCBs issue consents and authorizations to
industries and other entities for the discharge of pollutants, ensuring compliance with
pollution control norms.
3. Monitoring and Inspection: SPCBs monitor air and water quality within their states and
conduct regular inspections of industries to check compliance with pollution control
measures.
4. Setting State-specific Standards: SPCBs have the authority to set state-specific standards
for the quality of air and water based on local conditions and requirements.
5. Advisory Role: They advise the State Government on matters related to pollution control,
environmental impact assessment, and sustainable development.
6. Emergency Response: SPCBs are empowered to take emergency measures in response to
pollution incidents to prevent or mitigate harm to the environment.
7. Public Awareness: Similar to the CPCB, SPCBs work towards creating awareness among
the public about the importance of pollution control and environmental conservation.

Both the CPCB and SPCBs collaborate to address environmental challenges collectively,
ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated approach to pollution control and
management.

Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981, or the Air Act, in short, was a law
passed by the Parliament of India to prevent and control the harmful effects of air pollution
in India. This act is seen as the first concrete step taken by the government of India to
combat air pollution.

Why should you read about the Air Act 1981?

 A study has been released in the Lancet Journal in January 2021 about air pollution
and its effects on pregnancy. According to the report, air pollution in India increases
the risk of pregnancy losses in India and a few other nations in South Asia.
 India cities of Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai make in the list of top 10 world’s most
polluted cities.
 The issue of stubble burning is a recurrent topic in the news.

Why was the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981 passed?

The effects of climate change caused by all forms of pollution became all too apparent in
the early 1970s. To mitigate their harmful effects, it was believed that nations would need
to pass their own laws. Thus during the United Nations General Assembly on Human

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Environment held in Stockholm in June 1972, a resolution was passed which implored the
nations of the world to preserve natural resources such as air.

India itself had issues regarding air pollution due to a wide variety of factors such
as stubble burning, improper industrial practices, environmental factors etc. To combat
these factors a special law was enacted under the Constitution of India, which was the Air
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981.

Penalties and Procedure under the Air Act

The failure to comply with the Central Pollution Control Board directives would result in
imprisonment of 1 year. It can be extended to 6 years with a fine with the additional fine of
5000Rs per day added provided the directives are still not met.

Any environmental complaint will only be taken into consideration by a court if it is made
by the following:
 An officer authorised by the CPCB.
 A person who has made a complaint to the board or an officer authorised by it. The
complaint must be made within sixty days of the offence committed.

Wildlife Protection Act 1972

The Indian Parliament enacted the Wildlife (Protection) Act in 1972, which provides for the
safeguard and protection of the wildlife (flora and fauna) in the country.

Wildlife Protection Act 1972

This Act provides for the protection of the country’s wild animals, birds, and plant species,
in order to ensure environmental and ecological security. Among other things, the Act lays
down restrictions on hunting many animal species. The Act was last amended in the year
2006. An Amendment bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha in 2013 and referred to a
Standing Committee, but it was withdrawn in 2015.

History of Wildlife Protection Legislation in India

 The first such law was passed by the British Indian Government in 1887 called the
Wild Birds Protection Act, 1887. The law sought to prohibit the possession and sale
of specified wild birds that were either killed or captured during a breeding session.
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  A second law was enacted in 1912 called the Wild Birds and Animals Protection Act.
This was amended in 1935 when the Wild Birds and Animals Protection
(Amendment) Act 1935 was passed.
 During the British Raj, wildlife protection was not accorded a priority. It was only in
1960 that the issue of protection of wildlife and the prevention of certain species
from becoming extinct came into the fore.

Need for the Wildlife Protection Act

Wildlife is a part of ‘forests’ and this was a state subject until the Parliament passed this
law in 1972. Now it is Concurrent List. Reasons for a nationwide law in the domain of
environment particularly wildlife include the following:

1. India is a treasure-trove of varied flora and fauna. Many species were seeing a rapid
decline in numbers. For instance, it was mentioned by Edward Pritchard Gee (A
naturalist), that at the turn of the 20th century, India was home to close to 40000
tigers. But, a census in 1972 showed this number drastically reduced to about 1827.
2. A drastic decrease in the flora and fauna can cause ecological imbalance, which
affects many aspects of climate and the ecosystem.
3. The most recent Act passed during the British era in this regard was the Wild Birds
and Animals Protection, 1935. This needed to be upgraded as the punishments
awarded to poachers and traders of wildlife products were disproportionate to the
huge financial benefits that accrue to them.
4. There were only five national parks in India prior to the enactment of this Act.

Protected Areas under the Wildlife Protection Act

There are five types of protected areas as provided under the Act. They are described
below.
1. Sanctuaries: “Sanctuary is a place of refuge where injured, abandoned, and abused
wildlife is allowed to live in peace in their natural environment without any human
intervention.”
2. National Parks: “National Parks are the areas that are set by the government to conserve
the natural environment.”
3. Conservation Reserves: The State government may declare an area (particularly those
adjacent to sanctuaries or parks) as conservation reserves after consulting with local
communities.
4. Community Reserves: The State government may declare any private or community land
as a community reserve after consultation with the local community or an individual who
has volunteered to conserve the wildlife.

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5. Tiger Reserves: These areas are reserved for the protection and conservation of tigers in
India. They are declared on the recommendations of the National Tiger Conservation
Authority.

Initiatives by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO)

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in environmental protection

by initiating various projects, campaigns, and awareness programs. Their efforts often
focus on sustainable development, conservation of natural resources, biodiversity, climate
change mitigation, and promoting eco-friendly practices. Here are some common initiatives
undertaken by NGOs for environmental protection:

1. Raising Awareness:
- Conducting awareness campaigns on environmental issues, climate change, and
sustainable living practices.
- Organizing workshops, seminars, and conferences to educate communities about the
importance of environmental conservation.

2. Afforestation and Reforestation:

- Planting trees and promoting afforestation to combat deforestation and enhance green
cover.
- Restoring degraded ecosystems through reforestation projects.

3. Waste Management:
- Initiating waste management programs to reduce, reuse, and recycle waste.
- Promoting the adoption of sustainable waste disposal practices.

4. Water Conservation:
- Undertaking projects to conserve water resources and promote efficient water use.
- Conducting campaigns on the importance of water conservation and pollution
prevention.

5. Environmental Education:
- Developing educational programs for schools and communities to promote
environmental literacy.
- Creating educational materials and resources on environmental issues.

6. Wildlife Protection:
- Supporting anti-poaching initiatives and wildlife rescue and rehabilitation projects.
- Creating awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and natural habitats.

7. Sustainable Agriculture:
- Promoting organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices.

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 - Providing training and resources to farmers for adopting eco-friendly farming methods.

NGOs often work in collaboration with government agencies, other NGOs, and local
communities to maximize their impact in addressing environmental challenges. Their
initiatives contribute significantly to the overall efforts for environmental sustainability
and protection.

List of Some NGOs involved in Protecting Environment in India

1. Tropical Research & Development Centre (TRDC)

2. SankalpTaru Foundation
3. Chintan Environmental Research and Action Group
4. Janmitram Kalyan Samiti
5. Gram Chetna Kendra

Population Growth

Population growth refers to the increase in the number of individuals in a population over
a specific period. It is a critical demographic factor that has significant implications for
societies, economies, and the environment. Here are some key points related to population
growth:

Managing population growth involves addressing complex social, economic, and

environmental factors. Sustainable development practices, access to education and
healthcare, gender equality, and responsible resource management are crucial elements in
shaping a balanced and equitable demographic future.

Effect of Population Growth on the Environment

One of the factors responsible for environment degradation is population growth or

population density. In particular, population density plays the most important role in
shaping the socio-economic environment. Its effects are felt on the natural environment
also.

1. Generation of Waste:
Due to his destructive activities, man has dumped more and more waste in environment.

2. Threat to Biodiversity:
Due to his destructive activities, man has extracted more and more minerals from the
earth.

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3. Strain on Forests:
Man has established new housing colonies. National highways and hydropower projects
have been built and forests have been wiped out. These destructive activities have
increased and led to ecological imbalance.

4. Urbanization:
Rapid growth of population has led to urbanization which has adversely affected
environment. Due to population pressure, natural resources in the cities are depleted at a
fast rate due to population pressure.

5. Industrialisation:
Underdeveloped countries are following the policy of heavy industrialisation which is
causing environmental degradation.

6. Land Degradation:
Intensive farming and excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides have led to over-
exploitation of land and water resources.

7. Transport Development:
Environmental degradation is also due to transport development in the different parts of
the world. The automobiles release huge quantities of poisonous gases such as carbon
monoxide, nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons.

8. Climatic Change:
Climatic changes are irregular due to greenhouse gases.

9. Productivity:
Environmental degradation not only harms health but also reduces economic productivity.
Dirty water, inadequate sanitation, air pollution and land degradation cause serious
diseases on an enormous scale in developing countries like India.

10. Technology:
Presently, environmental pollution is caused by old technology which releases gases and
pollutants causing chemical and industrial pressure on environment.

Population Explosion
a. It is a sudden increase in number of individuals in a specific area at a given time.
b. Population explosion is a cause of serious concern for all of us .

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 c. Its impact is already showing in many areas caused by a sudden increase in
population.
d. The world population is growing at the rate of 2% per year.

Factors Responsible for Population Explosion:

a. Increased birth rate i.e natality due to better infant healthcare.

b. Decreased death rate i.e mortality due to advanced medical technologies.
c. Increased supply and abundance of food due to agricultural developments and
advancements.
d. Overall increased life expectancy due to various improvements in medical science
and the increased difference between birth rate and death rate.

Population Explosion in India context

In January 2022, India has been experiencing a significant population growth, often
referred to as a "population explosion." It's important to note that demographic trends can
change over time, and for the most current information, you should refer to the latest
demographic data or news sources.

As of 2022, India is the second-most populous country in the world, with a population
exceeding 1.3 billion people. The factors contributing to the population explosion in India
include:

1. High Birth Rate:

2. Declining Death Rate
3. Age Structure
4. Socioeconomic Factors
5. Cultural and Religious Factors

Efforts to address the population explosion in India have included initiatives to promote
family planning, improve healthcare and education, and raise awareness about the benefits
of smaller family sizes. Government programs and non-governmental organizations play a
crucial role in implementing these initiatives.

It's worth checking the latest demographic data and government reports for the most
current information on population trends in India. Demographic patterns can evolve over
time, and new policies or interventions may impact population dynamics.

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 Environmental Education

Environmental education enables learners to develop a structure of knowledge about the

world and seek knowledge that they can use and develop throughout their lives.
Environmental education empowers learners by enabling them to participate in a
sustainable future. Thus the foundation for a lifelong learning is laid by environmental
education.

Objective of Environmental Education

• Define the concept of environment, environmental science and eco-system.

•Explain the objectives of the environmental education.
• Identify the historical development of the branch eco-system.
• Establish the relationship between eco-system and economic development.
• Understand the socio-economic concept of degradation of environment.

Scope of Environmental Education

Environmental education discipline has multiple and multilevel scopes. This study is
important and necessary not only for children but also for everyone. The scopes are
summarized as follows:

1. The study creates awareness among the people to know about various renewable
and nonrenewable resources of the region.
2. It provides the knowledge about ecological systems and cause and effect
relationships.
3. It provides necessary information about biodiversity richness and the potential
dangers to the species of plants, animals and microorganisms in the environment.
4. The study enables one to understand the causes and consequences due to natural
and induced disasters (flood, earthquake, landslide, cyclones etc.,) and pollutions
and measures to minimize the effects.
5. It enables one to evaluate alternative responses to environmental issues before
deciding an alternative course of action.

Need for Environmental Education

The need to protect the environment hence the rationales for environmental education
arise as a result of the following:

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  Environment is the basis of all life and therefore deserves proper care and
management.
 If the environment is threatened on a continuous basis, numerous problems which
would constitute a danger to human existence could arise.
 The environment is part of our cultural heritage which should be handed down to
prosperity.
 Some resources of the environment are not easily replaceable and should be
managed on a sustainable basis, to prevent the extinction of certain components of
the environment such as plants and animals.
 There is need to enhance the sanity and aesthetic quality of our environment in
order to promote healthy living.
 The environment is part of nature and needs to be preserved for its own sake.

Women Education

Education is the basic right of any human. May it be a girl or a boy child, education has set
no boundaries. Education enlightens the soul and makes a human differentiate between
wrong and right, justice and injustice. Education is not a requirement, but instead a
necessity of life.

Women are the building blocks of society. They play a vital role in empowering every
aspect of society and the nation. A nation is considered as well established and empowered
only when the female population of the country is established, empowered, and safe.
Education is that key element that helps every individual conquer the greatest war and also
create the most impactful changes in the world.
A woman is such an individual who has the knowledge and temperament to create lives
with meaning. Promoting women’s education is as necessary and useful as oxygen is for
breathing. India has been able to generate some of the famous leaders who are female. Yet,
in most of the portions of the country, women still lack the benefit of getting an education
and are deprived of their basic amenities and rights.

Importance of Women’s Education

Education is a basic right for everyone. Education for all is one of the major tasks that the
Indian government is working on, but still, India holds the lowest female literacy rate in the
Asian region.

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Society takes birth from the woman herself, and when the woman is not given the access to
education, then the society will be debarred from all the primary cultures, habits, and traits
that a human must inculcate in them.

When a woman is literate in a family, it brings out the best versions of a human being in
them. The importance of a woman’s education is reflected in the generation of the family
and the way of living of the family.

In a society, equality matters a lot to maintain a balance. Discrimination and inequality are
the two cursed spells of society that creates an imbalance in society. Only prioritizing the
male gender in society brings out all the negativities in a society and then in the family
itself. Depriving the girl child of attending schools or restricting them from getting their
basic rights makes them weaker. They suffer domination from the male section of society.
This makes a society weaker and even violates the basic rights of a human.

Education for women is important because it makes them empowered and independent
and helps them build self-confidence. It helps them dream and aim for a better future. It
boosts their strength and gives them the spark to work harder for themselves and achieve
their dreams.

Women’s Education in India

After India gained its independence, the ideology of females was meant for household
change. Higher education for the girls was what came into action, and many went for the
same. But when the education system became available for the women, then only the
higher section of the society was able to avail the opportunity. Still, most of the females
were not allowed or were not given a chance for the same.

It was with the passage of time and the revolutionary acts that happened that the females
got an opportunity to stand for themselves. The higher section of the society supported this
revolt, and many opposed it. But in the end, revolution for a betterment always pays off on
a good note. With the modification in the governmental policies, the democratic exercise of
power became viral. Females then started going to schools to get a basic education.

But as we see today’s scenario, it totally varies from the one that existed previously.
Women have now become part of all the frontline workers. They have revolutionized the
education system. They have modified the gender-based biased roles into equally
prevailing roles. They have come forward to achieve their goals, although after facing all
the allegations and restrictions from a larger part of society. The holistic approach of the
individuals towards an equal working environment makes them shine even in the crowd.

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As per the Census, the total literacy rate of India is around 74.04%, out of which 82.14%
compose the male literacy, and the female literacy rate counts up to 65.46%. Although the
female literacy rate has seen a rise in the percentage level, it has not accomplished the goal
which was set to have been achieved.

Factors Affecting Women’s Education

Females are a very vulnerable section of society. There is a list of factors that creates
problems for the education of women. The basic dilemma that lies in educating a female
child depends more upon the family to which she belongs rather than the whole society or
the whole nation.

The various factors that yet are considered to be the reasons for causing problems in the
education of the females are:

 Social discrimination
 Gender inequality
 Undernourishment and malnutrition of the girl child
 Sexual harassment and abuse at early age
 Lower socio-economic status of parents
 Infections and low immunity power at childhood
 So many social restrictions and taboo in their life
 Forced to follow orders of elders in family whether at home of parents or parents-
in-law

For the betterment of the women education in India following programmes have been run:

o Sarwa Shiksha Abhiyan

o Indira Mahila Yojana
o Balika Samridhi Yojana
o Rashtriya Mahila Kosh
o Mahila Samridhi Yojana
o Employment and Income Generating Training-cum-Production Centres
o Programme of Development of Women and Children in rural areas
o Short Stay Home for Women and Girls

Role of Women in Environmental Protection

The role of women in environmental protection is crucial and multifaceted. Women play a
significant part in addressing environmental challenges at various levels, from local

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communities to global initiatives. Here are some key aspects of the role of women in
environmental protection:

1. Women often act as primary caregivers and resource managers in many

communities.
2. Women are frequently involved in traditional knowledge and practices related to
biodiversity conservation.
3. Women are essential in promoting sustainable agricultural practices. They are
involved in organic farming and other methods that prioritize environmental health.
4. Women are often responsible for collecting water, fuelwood, and other natural
resources.
5. Women can play a pivotal role in educating their families and communities about
the importance of environmental conservation.
6. Women often play a crucial role in waste management, recycling, and composting at
the household and community levels.

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