Assignment: Introduction to
Environmental Studies
Course: Environmental Science – AEC-2 (Semester II)
Unit 1: Introduction to Environmental Studies
Instructions:
- Answer all questions clearly and concisely.
- Word limit: 100–150 words for short answers, 200–250 for long answers.
- Submit in handwritten or typed format.
- Include relevant examples where possible.
Section A: Short Answer Questions (5 marks each)
1. 1. Define environmental studies and explain its multidisciplinary nature.
2. 2. What is the importance of environmental studies in the modern world?
3. 3. Define the concept of sustainability with suitable examples.
Section B: Long Answer Questions (10 marks each)
4. 4. Explain the multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies. Describe its link with
subjects like biology, chemistry, geography, economics, and sociology.
5. 5. Discuss the scope and importance of environmental studies for students and society.
6. 6. What is sustainable development? How does it help in achieving environmental
protection and economic growth together?
Section C: Application-Based/Case-Based (10 marks)
7. Prepare a case study/report on any one of the following:
- A local environmental issue and how it is being addressed.
- An example of a successful sustainable development project in India.
- Your suggestions for promoting environmental awareness in your college.
Total Marks: 60
Submission Date: [Insert Date]
Answer: Environmental studies is the field that deals with the study of the environment and
the solution of environmental problems. It is multidisciplinary in nature as it integrates
subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, geography, economics, and social sciences to
understand environmental issues and find sustainable solutions.
Answer: Environmental studies is important because it helps us understand the natural
world and our impact on it. It raises awareness about environmental problems like
pollution, climate change, and resource depletion, and encourages actions to protect and
preserve the environment for future generations.
Answer: Sustainability refers to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the
ability of future generations to meet their own needs. For example, using renewable energy
sources like solar power and practicing sustainable agriculture ensures long-term
environmental health and economic stability.
Answer: Environmental studies draws knowledge from multiple disciplines. Biology helps
understand ecosystems and species, chemistry explains pollution and chemical cycles,
geography studies landforms and climate, economics analyzes resource use and costs, while
sociology examines human behaviors affecting the environment. This multidisciplinary
nature helps in addressing environmental issues comprehensively.
Answer: The scope of environmental studies includes understanding environmental
processes, studying environmental problems, and learning about laws and policies. It is
important for students to develop awareness and skills for environmental protection.
Society benefits from informed citizens who can contribute to sustainable development and
responsible resource use.
Answer: Sustainable development refers to economic growth that meets current needs
without harming the environment or depleting resources. It involves practices like
recycling, using renewable energy, and conserving biodiversity. It balances economic,
environmental, and social goals to ensure a healthy planet and prosperity for all.
Answer: Example: Sustainable Development Project – Solar Power in Rajasthan
Rajasthan has implemented large-scale solar energy projects to harness renewable energy.
This helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lowers pollution, and provides clean energy.
The government supports the project with policies and subsidies. It creates jobs, promotes
local development, and serves as a model for sustainable practices in other regions.
