Ecosystems—comprising living organisms and their physical environments—are the foundation of all life on Earth. Their conservation is essential for ecological balance, biodiversity preservation, and sustaining human life. 1. Provision of Essential Services Ecosystems provide crucial services such as clean air and water, soil fertility, pollination of crops, climate regulation, and waste decomposition. Forests, for instance,…
Category: sustainability
What is ADB? State Any Four of Its Goals.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank established in 1966 with its headquarters in Manila, Philippines. Its primary objective is to promote social and economic development in Asia and the Pacific through loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments. ADB functions as a financial institution dedicated to reducing poverty and fostering sustainable…
Role of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in Environmental Protection in India
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has emerged as a powerful tool in the Indian judicial system to promote environmental justice and sustainability. Introduced in the late 1970s and early 1980s, PIL allows any public-spirited individual or organization to approach the courts on behalf of marginalized communities or public causes. In environmental matters, PILs have ensured that…
Two Factors of Inequality Between Developed and Developing Countries
The disparity between developed and developing countries remains a pressing issue in global development discourse. These inequalities manifest in economic, technological, environmental, and human development indicators. Two primary factors contributing to this imbalance are: 1. Economic Disparity One of the fundamental factors of inequality lies in the stark differences in economic development. Developed nations, such…
Describe the Methods and Tools for Stakeholder Participation
Stakeholder participation can take many forms—ranging from information sharing to active collaboration and empowerment. The appropriate method depends on the project stage, socio-political context, and available resources. 1. Public Consultations and Hearings These are formal meetings where citizens are informed about a policy or project and given the opportunity to comment. In India, Environmental Impact…
What is meant by Environmental Ethics?
Definition and Scope: Environmental ethics is a sub-field of philosophy that studies the moral relationship of human beings to the environment and its non-human contents. It explores the ethical principles governing human interaction with the natural world and considers the moral status of animals, plants, ecosystems, and the biosphere. At its core, environmental ethics asks…
Explain any Two Poverty Alleviation Programme
Over the years, the Government of India has introduced various Poverty Alleviation Programmes (PAPs) to address both rural and urban poverty. These programmes aim to generate employment, provide food security, and support social welfare. Let us examine two prominent initiatives: 1. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005 Overview: MGNREGA is a landmark…
What is Poverty? Characteristics of Poverty
Definition of Poverty: Poverty is generally understood as the condition in which an individual or community lacks the financial resources and essentials for a minimum standard of living. It is a multidimensional phenomenon encompassing lack of income, access to basic services such as education and healthcare, social discrimination, and vulnerability to economic shocks. According to…
Integration of Scientific and Traditional Knowledge for Sustainable Development
Integration of Scientific and Traditional Knowledge for Sustainable Development The integration of scientific and traditional knowledge is essential for advancing sustainable development, as it combines modern technological advances with timetested practices rooted in cultural and ecological contexts. This collaborative approach promotes holistic solutions to complex environmental, social, and economic challenges. 1. Environmental Management Traditional Knowledge:…
Community based Civil Society Initiatives on Sustainable Development
Community based Civil Society Initiatives on Sustainable Development Community based civil society initiatives are grassroots efforts driven by local groups, NGOs, and community organizations to promote sustainable development. These initiatives play a vital role in addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges by focusing on local knowledge, participation, and self-reliance. 1. Environmental Conservation Initiatives Chipko Movement…
Regional initiatives for environmental protection
Regional Initiatives for Environmental Protection Regional initiatives play a crucial role in addressing environmental challenges that transcend national boundaries, fostering cooperation among neighboring countries to achieve shared sustainability goals. These efforts address specific ecological concerns while promoting regional stability and sustainable development. 1. South Asia: The South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP) Established to enhance…
Road blocks to global initiatives
Roadblocks to Global Initiatives Global initiatives, such as those addressing climate change, poverty, or inequality, aim to unite nations toward common goals like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite their significance, several roadblocks hinder their effectiveness and implementation. 1. Geopolitical Conflicts Conflicts between nations disrupt international cooperation. Disputes over resourcesharing, border tensions, or…