1)) Human Rights Issues: Environmental Protection

Environmental protection and human rights are closely interlinked, as a

healthy environment is essential for the realization of many fundamental
human rights. These include the rights to life, health, food, water, and an
adequate standard of living. The degradation of the environment—whether
through pollution, climate change, deforestation, or loss of biodiversity—can
severely impair these rights, especially for vulnerable populations.

1. Environmental Rights as Human Rights

In recent decades, the concept of a clean, healthy, and sustainable

environment has increasingly been recognized as a human right. The United
Nations Human Rights Council, in 2021, formally recognized the right to a
healthy environment, highlighting the connection between environmental
health and human well-being. This recognition affirms that environmental
protection is not just an ecological or scientific issue but a matter of justice and
equality.

2. Impact on the Right to Life and Health

Environmental degradation poses direct threats to the right to life and health.
Air and water pollution, exposure to toxic substances, and hazardous waste
disproportionately affect poor and marginalized communities. For example,
contaminated drinking water can cause serious health issues such as cholera
and dysentery, while prolonged exposure to polluted air is linked to respiratory
and cardiovascular diseases. Thus, safeguarding environmental quality is
essential to protecting basic human survival and health.

3. Climate Change and Displacement

Climate change has become one of the most pressing human rights
challenges of our time. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and
prolonged droughts are not only environmental phenomena but also social and
human rights crises. They lead to forced displacement, food insecurity, and
loss of livelihoods, particularly for communities that are least responsible for
emissions yet most vulnerable to its impacts. Climate refugees face a lack of
legal recognition and protection under international law, raising ethical and
legal concerns.
4. Indigenous and Marginalized Communities

Environmental degradation often disproportionately affects indigenous peoples

and marginalized communities who depend closely on their natural
environments for culture, sustenance, and identity. Large-scale industrial
projects such as mining, dam construction, or deforestation frequently
encroach on their traditional lands, leading to displacement and loss of
ancestral heritage. These actions frequently occur without their free, prior, and
informed consent, violating their rights to land, self-determination, and cultural
integrity.

5. Environmental Justice and Equity

Environmental justice is a key human rights concern, aiming to ensure that no

group of people, especially those who are economically or socially
disadvantaged, bears a disproportionate share of environmental harm. It also
involves equitable access to natural resources and clean air, water, and land.
The concept calls for fairness in decision-making processes and accountability
from those who cause environmental harm, aligning closely with principles of
human rights.

6. Role of Environmental Defenders

Human rights defenders who advocate for environmental protection often face
serious threats, including harassment, imprisonment, and even assassination.
According to global watchdogs, environmental activists are among the most
targeted groups of human rights defenders. Protecting their rights to freedom
of expression, assembly, and security is essential to fostering public
participation and accountability in environmental governance.

7. International and National Legal Frameworks

Various international agreements and declarations link environmental

protection with human rights, including the Stockholm Declaration (1972), the
Rio Declaration (1992), and the Paris Agreement (2015). At the national level,
many constitutions and legal systems now recognize the right to a healthy
environment either explicitly or implicitly, giving citizens the legal grounds to
challenge environmental harm through courts.
8. Sustainable Development and Intergenerational Equity

Environmental protection is integral to the principle of sustainable

development, which seeks to meet the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This
principle incorporates intergenerational justice, acknowledging that current
human rights obligations extend to protecting the environmental rights of future
generations, thereby linking sustainability directly with human rights
frameworks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, environmental protection is no longer seen solely as a matter of

ecological concern but as a central human rights issue. It demands a
rights-based approach that ensures environmental policies are inclusive,
equitable, and accountable. Upholding the right to a healthy environment is
critical not only for human dignity and quality of life today but also for securing
a livable world for future generations. Hence, integrating human rights into
environmental governance is essential for achieving justice, sustainability, and
peace.

2)) Jurisprudence on Environmental Rights in India

The jurisprudence on environmental rights in India has evolved primarily through

judicial activism and interpretation of constitutional provisions. Although the Indian
Constitution does not explicitly recognize the right to a healthy environment as a
fundamental right, the Supreme Court has consistently interpreted Article 21 —
which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty — to include the right to a
clean, healthy, and safe environment. This interpretation has made environmental
protection a legally enforceable component of fundamental rights.

In addition to Article 21, Article 48A of the Directive Principles of State Policy directs
the State to protect and improve the environment, and Article 51A(g) of the
Fundamental Duties encourages citizens to protect the natural environment. Though
these provisions are not justiciable by themselves, the judiciary has used them to
give greater depth to environmental rights.

Indian courts have developed and reinforced several important environmental

principles through their rulings:

● Sustainable Development: Balancing economic growth with environmental

protection.

● Precautionary Principle: Preventive measures must be taken when there is a

risk of serious environmental harm, even if scientific certainty is lacking.

● Polluter Pays Principle: Those responsible for environmental damage must

bear the costs of restoration and compensation.

Public Interest Litigations (PILs) have played a crucial role in environmental

jurisprudence, with the courts allowing broad access to justice for environmental
matters even when the petitioners are not directly affected. This has empowered
civil society to play a more active role in environmental governance.

Over the years, this judicial approach has led to the establishment of various legal
standards, monitoring mechanisms, and even specialized bodies like the National
Green Tribunal (NGT), which was established in 2010 to handle environmental
disputes efficiently and ensure effective enforcement of legal rights relating to the
environment.

Thus, environmental jurisprudence in India has transformed from being a moral and
administrative concern into a robust, legally protected human right, central to the
idea of constitutional justice and sustainable development.

Ecology vs Economy – A Well-Written and Detailed Note

Introduction

In the 21st century, two powerful forces shape the future of human civilization:
ecology and economy. Although the two words sound similar and both come from
the Greek root “oikos”, meaning “home”, their meanings differ greatly. Ecology is the
science of the natural world—how living beings interact with each other and with
their environment. Economy, on the other hand, is the system through which
societies manage resources to produce goods and services for human needs.

While both are essential to life, a growing concern is that economic development
often comes at the cost of environmental damage, creating a conflict between
ecological protection and economic progress. This brings us to the vital question:
Can ecology and economy go hand in hand? The answer lies in finding a
sustainable balance.

Understanding Ecology

Ecology studies the relationship between living organisms (humans, animals, plants)
and their environment. It focuses on ecosystems, biodiversity, natural resources,
and environmental processes like the water cycle, carbon cycle, and climate
regulation.

Key elements of ecology include:

● Clean air and water

● Healthy soil and forests

● Climate stability

● Biodiversity and natural habitats

When these systems are balanced, nature provides everything we need—food,

water, oxygen, and raw materials. However, human activities such as
industrialization, deforestation, pollution, and overconsumption disturb this natural
balance.

Understanding Economy

The economy is the engine that powers human society. It includes all activities
related to the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.
Economic growth leads to:
 ● Better infrastructure and housing

● More employment and income

● Improved healthcare and education

● Enhanced standards of living

But traditional economic systems are mostly resource-intensive. Industries consume

fossil fuels, forests, water, and minerals at high rates, often without considering the
long-term environmental cost.

The Conflict Between Ecology and Economy

There is often a direct conflict between economic development and ecological

protection:

● Cutting down forests for timber or construction may boost the economy but
harms wildlife and causes soil erosion.

● Establishing factories increases employment but may lead to air and water
pollution.

● Mining creates wealth but destroys landscapes and ecosystems.

This conflict reflects a short-term mindset—economic gain is immediate, while

environmental damage becomes visible later. If not addressed, such practices can
lead to serious problems like:

● Global warming and climate change

● Water scarcity

● Loss of biodiversity

● Health issues due to pollution

 ● Natural disasters (floods, droughts, heatwaves)

Balancing Ecology and Economy – The Way Forward

To solve the ecology vs economy conflict, we need to change our approach to

development. The goal should not be to choose one over the other, but to find
balance and harmony between both.
1. Sustainable Development

This means using resources in a way that meets the needs of the present without
harming the future. For example:

● Using solar and wind energy instead of coal

● Practicing rainwater harvesting

● Promoting public transport to reduce pollution

● Limiting plastic use and encouraging biodegradable alternatives

2. Green Economy

A green economy focuses on economic growth that:

● Reduces environmental risks

● Promotes energy efficiency

● Creates eco-friendly jobs (like renewable energy technicians, waste recyclers,

etc.)

● Encourages eco-tourism and green buildings

3. Environmental Regulations and Policies

Governments must implement strict environmental laws to control pollution and

overexploitation. Industries should be held accountable for waste and emissions.
For example:
 ● “Polluter Pays Principle”

● Bans on single-use plastics

● Compulsory Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA)

4. Role of Technology

Modern technology can help bridge the gap. Innovations in agriculture (like drip
irrigation), clean energy, waste recycling, and green construction can make
economic activities more sustainable.
5. Public Awareness and Responsibility

Citizens must also play a role. Small actions like saving electricity, planting trees,
avoiding plastic, and choosing eco-friendly products can contribute to a greener
future.

Conclusion

Ecology and economy are not enemies—they are two sides of the same coin. A
healthy environment provides the resources and stability that a strong economy
depends on. At the same time, a smart and sustainable economy can help protect
the environment. Ignoring one will eventually harm the other.

The key lies in understanding that economic development must go hand-in-hand

with ecological responsibility. We need to adopt sustainable practices, invest in
green technologies, and raise awareness about the importance of environmental
protection. Only then can we ensure a future that is both economically prosperous
and ecologically safe—for ourselves and for the generations to come.

Green Bench – A Comprehensive and Detailed Note

 Introduction

As environmental challenges intensify globally—rising pollution levels, deforestation,

loss of biodiversity, and climate change—there is a growing need for legal
frameworks to safeguard nature. In India, the judiciary has played a proactive role in
environmental protection. One of its most important contributions is the
establishment of Green Benches—specialized divisions within High Courts to deal
with environmental issues exclusively. These benches are essential in ensuring that
economic development does not come at the cost of environmental degradation.

What is a Green Bench?

A Green Bench is a special judicial body or division within a High Court that focuses
solely on environmental matters. It was introduced to provide speedy, expert, and
effective redressal of ecological and environmental cases.

Green Benches are responsible for:

● Interpreting and applying environmental laws

● Preventing and punishing violations of ecological norms

● Hearing Public Interest Litigations (PILs) related to the environment

● Ensuring sustainable development through legal intervention

Historical Background

● The first Green Bench in India was set up in the Calcutta High Court (1996),
based on the need to give exclusive focus to environmental matters.

● Encouraged by its success, other High Courts such as Madras, Bombay,

Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, and Allahabad also established Green Benches.

● These benches helped reduce delays and ensured specialized attention to

cases involving pollution, deforestation, mining, and other environmental
issues.
 ● Their success and increasing environmental litigation later led to the creation
of a dedicated environmental court at the national level—the National Green
Tribunal (NGT) in 2010, under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.

Types of Cases Handled by Green Benches

Green Benches hear a wide range of environmental cases, often complex and
involving scientific, legal, and social dimensions.
1. Pollution-Related Cases

● Industrial pollution (e.g., untreated chemical waste)

● Vehicular emissions and noise pollution

● Water pollution from domestic or industrial sources

● Cases under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Water
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974

2. Deforestation and Land Use Cases

● Illegal logging and tree felling

● Encroachment into protected forest areas

● Diversion of forest land for commercial or infrastructure projects

● Violations of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

3. Wildlife and Biodiversity Conservation

● Poaching and illegal trade of endangered species

● Destruction of wildlife habitats

● Encroachments in national parks and sanctuaries

● Cases under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

4. Mining and Extraction Activities

● Unregulated sand, coal, or stone mining

● Mining in eco-sensitive zones or tribal lands

● Environmental damage due to poor rehabilitation

● Cases requiring application of the Mines and Minerals (Development and

Regulation) Act, 1957

5. Waste Management Disputes

● Illegal dumping of solid and hazardous waste

● Failure of municipalities to manage sewage or garbage

● Industrial e-waste issues

● Linked to the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

6. Urban Development and Construction

● Illegal buildings in ecologically sensitive zones

● Infrastructure projects without proper Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

● Disputes over wetland reclamation and groundwater depletion

7. Climate and Natural Resource Cases

● Protection of rivers, hills, lakes, and green belts

● Climate adaptation and disaster risk-related disputes

● Compensation for environmental damage and restoration orders

 Importance and Functions of Green Benches

Function Explanation

Speedy justice Fast-tracks environment-related

disputes, which may otherwise take
years in regular courts

Specialized attention Judges and advocates with

environmental law knowledge handle
cases more effectively

Public interest support Allows individuals and NGOs to file PILs

without personal gain

Enforcement of legal provisions Enforces over 200 central and state

environmental laws and international
treaties

Preventive and corrective action Can issue stop-work orders, fines, and
restoration orders to prevent irreversible
harm

Examples of Judgments by Green Benches (General Types)

● Closure of polluting industries near rivers or in residential areas

● Suspension of mining activities in forest-rich belts without proper clearance

● Orders for afforestation or tree plantation as environmental compensation

 ● Demolition of illegal constructions in coastal regulation zones (CRZ)

● Ban on use of loudspeakers or firecrackers during certain hours or seasons

● Shifting of hazardous industries away from populated zones

Legal Framework Supporting Green Benches

Green Benches derive their authority from several environmental laws, including:

● Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

● Air and Water Acts (1981, 1974)

● Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

● Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

● Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991

● National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 (which later led to the formation of NGT)

They also support constitutional provisions, such as:

● Article 21: Right to life includes the right to a clean and healthy environment.

● Article 48A: The State shall protect and improve the environment.

● Article 51A(g): It is the duty of every citizen to protect the natural environment.

Conclusion

The establishment of Green Benches in Indian High Courts marked a significant

shift in recognizing the importance of environmental justice. These benches ensured
that environmental protection is not neglected in the rush for industrialization or
urbanization. Though their role has been largely taken over by the National Green
Tribunal, Green Benches played a foundational role in shaping India’s environmental
legal system.

By focusing on various types of environmental cases—from pollution and mining to

biodiversity conservation and urban planning—they helped spread awareness,
enforce laws, and encourage a sustainable model of development. Their legacy
continues to inspire judicial activism and legal innovations in environmental
governance across the country.

Occupational Diseases Due to Air Pollution

Introduction: Air pollution in occupational settings refers to the presence of harmful

airborne substances like dust, fumes, gases, vapors, and biological agents in the
workplace. Workers in sectors such as mining, construction, agriculture, and
manufacturing are particularly vulnerable. Long-term exposure to these pollutants
can lead to serious and often irreversible diseases. Occupational air pollution not
only affects the health and well-being of workers but also reduces productivity and
increases healthcare costs.

1. Silicosis is a serious lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust,

commonly found in industries like mining, stone cutting, sandblasting, and
construction. It leads to inflammation and scarring in the lungs, causing
chronic cough, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, respiratory failure.

2. Asbestosis is a chronic respiratory disease caused by the inhalation of

asbestos fibers, mainly affecting workers in shipbuilding, construction, and
insulation industries. It causes lung tissue scarring, persistent cough, and an
increased risk of lung cancer, particularly mesothelioma.

3. Pneumoconiosis is a group of lung diseases, including silicosis and

asbestosis, caused by the inhalation of various types of mineral dust. These
diseases are progressive, incurable, and often lead to severe respiratory
impairment.

4. Occupational asthma is caused by exposure to airborne allergens and irritants

such as flour dust, wood dust, animal dander, and chemical vapors. It results
in wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and breathlessness that often worsens
 during working hours.

5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) occurs due to long-term

exposure to chemical fumes, smoke, and dust in industries like welding,
agriculture, textile, and construction. It leads to chronic bronchitis,
emphysema, and reduced lung function.

6. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an immune-related lung disorder resulting from

inhalation of organic dusts like mold spores, animal proteins, and fungal
elements. It is commonly seen in farmers, bird breeders, and mushroom
growers.

7. Lung cancer may develop from prolonged exposure to occupational

carcinogens such as asbestos, diesel exhaust, arsenic, and radon gas.
Mesothelioma, a rare and fatal cancer, is specifically linked to asbestos
exposure.

8. Metal fume fever is an acute condition caused by inhaling metal oxide fumes
(e.g., zinc, magnesium) during activities such as welding. It presents flu-like
symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches but usually resolves in a few
days.

9. Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs in workplaces using fuel-burning

equipment in poorly ventilated areas. Carbon monoxide binds with
hemoglobin, reducing oxygen supply to the body, leading to headache,
dizziness, unconsciousness, or death.

10. Irritant-induced respiratory diseases like bronchitis and Reactive Airways

Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS) result from exposure to irritants such as
ammonia, chlorine, and sulfur dioxide, causing coughing, airway inflammation,
and breathing difficulty.

11. Pesticide and DDT exposure is common in agricultural settings. Inhalation

or skin contact with pesticides like DDT can lead to headaches, nausea,
respiratory problems, neurological disorders, hormonal disruption, and even
cancer. Chronic exposure has been associated with liver damage and
reproductive issues.
Solutions to the Problem

1. Proper ventilation systems must be installed to ensure continuous flow of

clean air and reduce the accumulation of harmful airborne substances in
enclosed workspaces.

2. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators, face masks,

gloves, and protective clothing should be mandatory for workers in high-risk
environments.

3. Regular health check-ups and medical surveillance should be conducted to

detect early signs of respiratory or systemic diseases, allowing for timely
intervention and treatment.

4. Training and awareness programs should educate workers about the risks of
occupational air pollution, safe handling of hazardous substances, and
emergency response protocols.

5. Enforcement of occupational safety laws such as air quality standards,

exposure limits, and regular workplace inspections by authorities ensures that
employers follow safety guidelines.

Conclusion: Occupational diseases due to air pollution are a growing health

concern that can lead to chronic respiratory conditions, cancer, and systemic toxicity.
Specific conditions like silicosis, asbestosis, and pesticide-induced illnesses
highlight the need for urgent preventive measures. A combination of engineering
controls, personal protection, health monitoring, education, and legal enforcement is
essential to protect workers’ health and ensure a safe and sustainable work
environment.
Environmental Ethics in the Field of Sustainable Development
Introduction: Environmental ethics is a branch of applied philosophy that defines the
moral relationship of human beings with the environment and its non-human
contents. In the era of environmental crises such as climate change, deforestation,
and pollution, environmental ethics serves as a guiding force for sustainable
development — a development model that balances economic growth,
environmental protection, and social equity. It brings moral reasoning into
decision-making processes to ensure that development today does not compromise
the needs of future generations.

Importance of Environmental Ethics in Sustainable Development

1. Foundation for Intergenerational Equity:

It emphasizes moral responsibility towards future generations. Sustainable

development rests on the idea that we must leave behind an ecologically
viable planet for those who come after us.

2. Regulation of Resource Use:

Ethical guidelines help decide how much we can take from nature without
destroying it. It fosters responsible consumption, reduces waste, and promotes
renewable resources over depletable ones.

3. Environmental Justice and Equity:

Ethical reasoning helps ensure fair distribution of environmental benefits and

burdens. It fights against environmental racism and protects the rights of
indigenous and marginalized communities.

4. Eco-centric over Anthropocentric Approach:

While traditional models focus on human benefit (anthropocentrism),

environmental ethics promotes respect for all life forms and ecosystems,
giving intrinsic value to nature (eco-centrism and biocentrism).

5. Influences Law and Policy:

 Many modern environmental laws — like Environmental Impact Assessments
(EIA), the Polluter Pays Principle, and Precautionary Principle — stem from
ethical concerns about ecological well-being and justice.

6. Climate Change Mitigation:

Ethical responsibility urges both developed and developing nations to cut

emissions and transition to clean energy, ensuring climate justice and
planetary health.

7. Education and Cultural Values:

Environmental ethics integrates with education, culture, and religion,

promoting sustainable thinking through values like simplicity, balance, and
harmony with nature.

8. Global Sustainability Goals:

Ethical values underpin international efforts like the UN Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs) — especially SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15
(Life on Land), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Core Ethical Principles in Environmental Sustainability

● Stewardship – Humans are caretakers, not owners, of the Earth.

● Respect for Nature – All species and ecosystems have intrinsic value.

● Justice and Fairness – Equal access to environmental benefits and protection

from harm.

● Responsibility and Accountability – Every individual and institution must

answer for environmental degradation.

● Precautionary Principle – Avoid actions with uncertain but potentially serious

risks to the environment.
 ● Sustainable Reciprocity – What we take from nature must be returned or
replenished.

Brief Case Examples Supporting Environmental Ethics

1. Narmada Bachao Andolan – Ethical protest against displacement and

ecological damage by dam projects.

2. Minamata Disease – Corporate irresponsibility led to severe mercury

poisoning; highlighted need for ethical industrial practices.

3. Silent Spring (Rachel Carson) – Exposed ethical failure in pesticide use; led to
awareness about ecological health.

4. Bhopal Gas Tragedy – A symbol of unethical corporate behavior; called for

stronger accountability in development.

5. Chipko Movement – Showed how local communities protected nature ethically

through non-violence.

6. Amazon Deforestation – Raises global ethical concerns about biodiversity,

indigenous rights, and climate impact.

Conclusion: Environmental ethics serves as the moral compass of sustainable

development. It ensures that human advancement respects ecological boundaries,
protects the rights of all life forms, and maintains harmony between present and
future needs. By embedding ethical values in education, policy, industry, and
individual behavior, societies can foster truly sustainable and just development. In
the face of climate crisis and environmental degradation, embracing environmental
ethics is not just wise — it is essential for our survival and dignity as a global
community.
What is Smog? Detailed note
Smog is a type of air pollution that appears as a thick, hazy fog mixed with smoke
and harmful gases. The word “smog” is a blend of “smoke” and “fog.” It reduces
visibility, affects human health, and damages the environment. Smog is most
common in cities with high levels of pollution and heavy traffic.

How is Smog Formed?

Smog is formed when various air pollutants mix in the atmosphere under certain
weather conditions. The main components that cause smog include:

● Vehicle emissions (carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons)

● Industrial emissions (sulphur dioxide, particulate matter)

● Burning of fossil fuels (coal, diesel, petrol)

● Weather conditions, especially temperature inversion, which traps pollutants

close to the ground.

There are two main types of smog:

1. Classical Smog (Sulphurous Smog)

○ Forms in cold, humid weather

○ Caused by smoke and sulphur dioxide from burning coal

○ Example: Great London Smog of 1952

2. Photochemical Smog
 ○ Forms in hot, sunny weather

○ Caused by a chemical reaction between sunlight, nitrogen oxides (NOx),

and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

○ Produces ground-level ozone, a harmful pollutant

○ Common in modern cities like Los Angeles or Delhi

Instances of Smog
● London (1952): The Great Smog caused over 4,000 immediate deaths and
serious health issues.

● Delhi (India): Every winter, Delhi faces severe smog due to vehicle emissions,
stubble burning, and industrial pollution.

● Beijing (China): Often experiences “airpocalypse” conditions due to heavy

smog.

● Los Angeles (USA): Known for photochemical smog caused by vehicle

pollution and sunlight.

Problems Caused by Smog

a)

Health Issues

● Breathing problems like asthma, bronchitis, and lung infections

● Eye irritation and throat pain

 ● Headaches and fatigue

● Increases heart problems and risk of stroke

● Children and elderly are more vulnerable

b)

Environmental Impact

● Damages plants by blocking sunlight, reducing photosynthesis

● Harms forests and reduces crop yield

● Causes acid rain

● Pollutes water bodies

c)

Economic and Social Effects

● Reduces visibility, increasing road and air accidents

● Lowers tourism due to poor air quality

● Increases medical expenses due to health impacts

Prevention and Control of Smog

1. Reduce vehicle emissions

○ Use public transport, bicycles, electric vehicles

 ○ Maintain engines to reduce smoke

2. Control industrial pollution

○ Install air filters, scrubbers, and follow emission norms

3. Promote clean energy

○ Use solar, wind, or natural gas instead of coal and diesel

4. Avoid burning waste or crop residue

5. Increase green cover

○ Trees absorb pollutants and purify air

6. Raise public awareness

○ Educate people on pollution and eco-friendly practices

7. Government policies and monitoring

○ Enforce laws like the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act

○ Use real-time air quality monitoring systems

Conclusion
Smog is a serious environmental problem affecting health, nature, and daily life.
With rising urbanization and vehicle use, smog is becoming more common in major
cities. It can only be controlled through a combination of government action, public
responsibility, and sustainable development practices.

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) –

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are highly toxic chemical compounds that
resist degradation and remain in the environment for long periods. They can travel
long distances through air, water, and migratory species, and tend to accumulate in
the fatty tissues of living organisms, including humans—a process known as
bioaccumulation and biomagnification.

POPs are mostly man-made chemicals used in agriculture, industry, or produced as

by-products of combustion. They are dangerous even in small quantities and can
cause serious health problems such as cancer, hormone disruption, reproductive
disorders, and immune system damage.
Examples of POPs:

● DDT (a pesticide)

● PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls)

● Dioxins and Furans (industrial by-products)

Seveso Disaster
The Seveso disaster was a major industrial accident that occurred on July 10, 1976,
in Seveso, a small town in northern Italy. The accident happened at a chemical
manufacturing plant owned by ICMESA, a subsidiary of the Swiss company
Hoffmann-La Roche.

A chemical reactor overheated, causing the release of a toxic cloud containing

dioxin (specifically TCDD, one of the most dangerous dioxins). This highly
poisonous gas spread over nearby towns.

Salinity – Definition
Salinity refers to the amount of dissolved salts (mainly sodium chloride) present in
water. It is usually expressed in parts per thousand (ppt) or grams of salt per
kilogram of water (g/kg).
 Thunderstorm –

A thunderstorm is a weather phenomenon that involves thunder, lightning, rain, and

sometimes strong winds and hail. It occurs when warm, moist air rises rapidly into
the atmosphere, cools, and condenses to form cumulonimbus clouds.

Impact of Globalisation
Introduction

Globalisation refers to the process of increasing interconnectedness and

interdependence among countries through the exchange of goods, services,
information, technology, capital, and culture. It has accelerated significantly since the
late 20th century due to advancements in communication, transportation, and trade
liberalisation. While globalisation has brought substantial benefits to many countries
and individuals, it has also led to several challenges that continue to spark debate
around the world.

Positive Impacts of Globalisation

1. Economic Growth and Development:

Globalisation has enabled countries, especially developing ones, to grow their

economies by participating in global trade and attracting foreign investment.

2. Employment Opportunities:

Multinational companies have created millions of jobs in developing countries,

improving income levels and living standards for many people.

3. Access to Technology and Innovation:

Globalisation allows countries to access advanced technologies and

 innovative practices, boosting productivity and efficiency.

4. Cultural Exchange and Awareness:

Globalisation facilitates the sharing of cultural values, traditions, music, and

food, fostering understanding and tolerance among different communities.

5. Improved Quality and Variety of Products:

Consumers benefit from a wider selection of goods and services at

competitive prices due to global competition and supply chains.

6. Better Education and Knowledge Sharing:

Globalisation has promoted international collaboration in education and

research, enabling the spread of knowledge and academic exchange.

7. Infrastructure Development:

Investment from foreign businesses has led to the development of

infrastructure like roads, ports, and communication networks in many
countries.

Negative Impacts of Globalisation

1. Loss of Domestic Industries:

Local industries often struggle to compete with large multinational

corporations, leading to closures and unemployment.

2. Widening Income Inequality:

While globalisation has made some people very rich, it has also increased the
gap between the rich and the poor within and between nations.

3. Cultural Homogenisation:

Traditional cultures and languages risk being overshadowed or replaced by

 dominant global cultures, especially Western lifestyles.

4. Environmental Degradation:

Increased industrial activity, transportation, and resource extraction have led

to pollution, deforestation, and climate change.

5. Exploitation of Labour:

In some cases, multinational corporations exploit cheap labour in developing

countries by providing poor working conditions and low wages.

6. Economic Dependency:

Over-reliance on global markets can make countries vulnerable to global

economic fluctuations and financial crises.

7. Loss of Sovereignty:

International agreements and foreign influences can limit a nation’s ability to

make independent policy decisions.

Conclusion

Globalisation is a double-edged sword. While it has opened up vast opportunities for

economic growth, technological advancement, and cultural exchange, it has also
brought challenges such as inequality, cultural erosion, and environmental harm. To
maximise its benefits and minimise its drawbacks, globalisation needs to be
managed with balanced policies that promote inclusivity, sustainability, and respect
for local values and sovereignty.

Chipko Movement
Introduction

The Chipko Movement was a non-violent environmental movement aimed at

protecting trees and forests from commercial logging. The word “Chipko” means “to
hug” in Hindi, and the movement is so named because villagers, especially women,
hugged trees to prevent them from being cut down. It is one of the most well-known
environmental movements in India and had a far-reaching impact on forest
conservation and public awareness.

Historical Background

● Location: The movement began in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand (then

part of Uttar Pradesh) in the Himalayan foothills.

● Time Period: The major uprising started in 1973, but its roots go back to earlier
forest struggles.

● Earlier Inspiration: The movement drew inspiration from the Bishnoi

community’s forest conservation practices and the 1730 Khejarli Massacre in
Rajasthan, where 363 people sacrificed their lives to protect trees.

Reasons Behind the Movement

1. Exploitation of Forests:

Local forests were being over-exploited by logging contractors, often

supported by the government, for commercial purposes.

2. Environmental Degradation:

Deforestation led to soil erosion, landslides, drying up of springs, and loss of

biodiversity.

3. Neglect of Local Needs:

Villagers were denied access to forest products (like firewood, fodder, and
 timber), while outside companies received permits.

4. Demand for Forest Rights:

People demanded community rights over forests and local participation in

forest management.

Major Events of the Chipko Movement

1. 1973 – The Beginning in Mandal Village

● Trigger: The government gave permission to a private company to cut trees in

the Mandal forest.

● Protest: Led by Chandi Prasad Bhatt and supported by the local community.

● Action: Villagers hugged trees to stop the loggers, forcing the government to
cancel the permit.

2. 1974 – Reni Village Protest

● Leader: Gaura Devi, a village woman.

● Incident: When male villagers were away, loggers came to cut trees. Gaura
Devi and other women confronted them and hugged the trees.

● Result: The loggers had to retreat, and the event gained national attention.

3. Role of Women

● Women played a central role in the movement. As primary collectors of

firewood, water, and fodder, they were directly affected by deforestation.

● Their courage and leadership made the Chipko Movement a symbol of

women’s environmental activism.

4. Expansion to Other Regions

 ● The movement spread to other parts of Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and
Karnataka.

● It inspired other movements like Appiko Movement in Karnataka in 1983.

Key Leaders of the Movement

● Sunderlal Bahuguna – Environmentalist and Gandhian who spread the

movement nationally and coined the slogan “Ecology is permanent economy.”

● Chandi Prasad Bhatt – Social activist and founder of DGSM (Dasholi Gram
Swarajya Mandal).

● Gaura Devi – Local woman leader who led the Reni village protest.

Impact of the Chipko Movement

1. Ban on Commercial Logging:

In 1980, the Indian government, under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, banned
the cutting of trees in Himalayan forests for 15 years.

2. Policy Change:

The movement influenced forest policy, emphasizing ecological balance,

conservation, and local participation.

3. Women Empowerment:

It showed the power of grassroots women’s leadership in environmental

protection.

4. Environmental Awareness:

Chipko awakened national and global awareness about deforestation and its
 dangers.

5. Birth of Eco-activism in India:

It is considered the beginning of the environmental movement in modern

India.

6. Recognition:

Sunderlal Bahuguna received the Padma Vibhushan, and the movement was
acknowledged by international environmental organizations.

Slogans of the Movement

● “What do the forests bear? Soil, water and pure air.”

● “Ecology is permanent economy.”

● “Embrace the trees and save them from being felled.”

Conclusion

The Chipko Movement was more than just a protest to save trees; it was a people’s
movement for environmental justice, sustainable development, and empowerment. It
successfully brought environmental issues into public discourse and policymaking.
Even today, it serves as a powerful example of how local communities, especially
women, can lead the way in protecting nature through peaceful and collective
action.