Environmental Studies - Unit 1 PDF

# Unit 1: Environmental Studies - A Multidisciplinary Subject ## 1.1 Environment - The word 'Environment' is derived from the French word _Environner_, meaning to encircle or surround. - The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 defines environment as "the sum total of water, air and land and the int...

# Unit 1: Environmental Studies - A Multidisciplinary Subject ## 1.1 Environment - The word 'Environment' is derived from the French word _Environner_, meaning to encircle or surround. - The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 defines environment as "the sum total of water, air and land and the inter-relationships that exist among them and with the human beings, other living organisms and materials." - The concept of environment can be understood through four key elements: - **Water** - **Air** - **Land** - **Living organisms**, including humans, which are interconnected through the exchange of materials. ## 1.2 Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies - Environmental studies are complex and require input from multiple disciplines. - The following fields are essential to the study of the environment: - **Life sciences:** biology, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology - **Physical sciences:** physics, chemistry, earth science, atmospheric science, oceanography, geography - **Basic and applied studies:** mathematics, statistics, computer science, modeling, economics, sociology, law, education, management, mass communication - **Engineering:** civil, chemical, hydraulics, nanotechnology ## 1.3 Scope - Environmental studies cover a broad range of areas, including: - **Natural Resource Conservation and Management** - **Ecology and Biodiversity** - **Environmental Pollution and Control** - **Social Issues related to Development and Environment** - **Human Population and Environment** ## 1.4 Importance of Environment - Environment is important to everyone, regardless of occupation or age. - The environment is constantly being affected by human actions, and we need to be aware of the consequences of our choices. - There is an international environmental calendar that marks important events and issues. - Some notable days include: - World Wetland Day (February 2) - World Forest Day (March 21) - Earth Day (April 22) - World Environment Day (June 5) - World Ocean Day (June 8) - World Population Day (July 11) - World Car-free Day (September 22) - World Animal Welfare Day (October 4) - International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction (October 13) - International Day for Biological Diversity (December 29) ## Global vs. Local Nature of Environment - Environmental issues can be global in nature, such as climate change, or local, such as waste management or pollution of a specific river. - We must consider both global and local perspectives when addressing environmental issues. ## Individualistic Nature of Environment - Environmental studies are crucial for maintaining a healthy and sustainable life for individuals. - Issues such as clean water, air, and food are directly related to our well-being. ## 1.5 Need for Public Awareness - International efforts to address environmental issues began in 1972 with the Stockholm Conference. - The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (Earth Summit) in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg in 2002 highlighted the need for global action. - The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai in 2004 for her work in sustainable development, democracy, and peace. - Public awareness is essential for achieving sustainable development. - It is important to understand the impact our actions have on the environment and to promote environmentally friendly practices. - The concept of 'Ecomark' in India, introduced in 1991, seeks to raise consumer awareness about environmentally friendly products. ## Important points to remember: - Environmental education is crucial for creating a better future for our planet. - We must all play a role in protecting and preserving the environment. - The goals of sustainable development cannot be achieved without public participation. - It is our responsibility to make informed choices and advocate for environmentally sound practices. - Taking action today is crucial, as the restoration of the environment may take decades.