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CHAPTER – I

INTRODUCTION

“Environment” is a difficult word to define. Its normal meaning relates to

surrounding, but obviously that is a concept which is relatable to whatever object it

is which is surrounded. Einstein had once observed, “The environment is

everything that isn’t me”.1 Environment is a polycentric and multifaceted problem

affecting the human existence. Man is nature’s best promise and worst enemy. If

for the progress of the society industry is necessary, pollution is inevitable. Since

progress and pollution go together, there can be no end of progress, and

consequently, no escape from pollution. If Industry is a necessary evil but

pollution surest sufferance. “Pollution” is a noun derived from the transitive verb

“pollutes” which means to make foul or unclean, dirty, to make impure or morally

unclean. “Pollution” also means the direct or indirect discharge by man of

substance or energy into the aquatic environment resulting in hazard to human

health, harm to living resources and aquatic ecosystems, damage to amenities on

interference with other legitimate uses of water.2

The protection of environment is a global issue and it is not an isolated

problem of any area or nation. The problem of environmental pollution in an

increasingly small world concerns all countries irrespective of their size, level of

development or ideology. Notwithstanding political division of the world into

national units, the oceanic world is interconnected whole; and winds that blow over

1 See T.N. Godavarman Thirumalpad V. Union of India, (2002) 10 SCC 606 at 618.2 Id., at 627-628. See also Halsbury’s Laws of England, 4th Edn. Vol. 38 para 66; Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board V.C. Kenchappa, (2006) 6 SCC 371.

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the countries are also one.3 If the nuclear test is carried out in one part of the world,

the fall out may be carried by winds to any other part of the world and such fall out

of irresponsible disposal of radioactive waste from a remote energy plant in one

country may turn out to have greater adverse effect on the neighboring countries

than the danger of fully fledged war.4

The problem of environmental pollution is not new in its origin. It is as old

as the emergence of Homo sapiens on the Planet and it was realized in the times of

Plato 2500 years ago.5 However, different dimensions of the problem of

environment protection and its management have taken a serious turn in the

present era. Today, Society’s interaction with nature is so extensive that

environment question has assumed proportions affecting all humanity.

Industrialization, Urbanization, Population explosion, poverty, over-

exploitation of resources, depletion of traditional resource of energy and raw

materials and the research for new sources of energy and raw materials, are

some of the factors which have contributed to environmental deterioration the

world over. While the scientific and technological progress of man has invested

him with immense power over nature, it has also resulted in the unthinking use of

the power, encroaching endlessly on nature.6

It is a basic right of all to live in a healthy environment. The acute poverty

in the country requires developmental process to be accelerated, but we cannot do

so at the cost of environment thereby endangering not only the present generation

3M.C. Mehta V. Union of India, (1991) 2 SCC 353 at 354 4 Due to the agricultural chemicals, solvents and mercury, which flowed into the Rhine River during a warehouse fire in Switzerland, millions of fish were killed and the drinking water in the Federal Republic of Germany and the Netherlands was threatened.5 See Hambro, E., “The Human Environment-Stockholm and After”, Year Book of World Affairs, 20 (1974).6 Shri Sachidanand Pandey V. State of West Bengal, A.I.R. 1987 S.C. 1109. See also T.N. Godavarman Thirumalpad V.Union of India, (2002) 10 SCC at 622

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but also the future generation. The crying need of the hour is the “sustainable

development”. “Sustainable development” is that development which meets the

need of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet

their needs.7 At present, human beings are indeed at the heart of the search for

sustainable development as our very survival depends on very narrow range

environmental conditions.

The line of thinking in Government circles could now change to address the

above issues, with more awareness and the development of ISO 14001 by the

International Organization for Standardization to provide organizations worldwide

with a consistent and globally recognized structure for creating, implementing,

monitoring and improving environmental management systems. The Government

alone cannot accomplish much. Initiative has to be taken by the Common man in

general and by Industry in particular. And to make a Company's Environment

Management System a success, contribution should come in from every employee,

no matter how small. As they say "Nobody made a greater mistake than he who

did nothing because he could only do a little."

Astounding Reality:

The Human race has only one or perhaps two generations to rescue itself

• 420 million people live in countries which no longer have enough land to

grow their own crop food and have to rely on imports

• About one quarter of the developing world’s crop land is being degraded and

the rate is increasing

7 See Our Common Future- The World Commission on Environment and Development, 43 (1987).

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• More than 500 million people are living in regions prone to chronic drought.

By 2025 that number is likely to have increased fivefold

• Global warming is accelerating and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has

reached 370.9 parts per million

• Global production of hazardous waste has reached more than 300m tonnes a

year

• About 30% of the world’s forests are seriously degraded or fragmented and

are being cut down at the rate of 50,000 sq, miles a year!

• The 20% of the world's people who live in the highest income countries

consume 86% of the world's resources. (New Internationalist, March 1999)

In India

• Forest cover in India declined from 42% in 1947 to 5% in the next 50 years!

• More than 40,000 people die a premature death every year due to pollution

• Carbon dioxide levels are in excess of 500mg/m3 at traffic intersections

which is five times more than the WHO recommended levels

• Most surface water in India is polluted

• India is home to the most degraded environment

• Monetary loss due to water, air and land pollution is estimated to be Rs 20, 5

and 10 thousand crores per year respectively

Monetary loss due to water, air and land pollution is estimated to be Rs 20, 5

and 10 thousand crores per year respectively

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1. METHODOLOGY

DOCTRINAL (TRADITIONAL) RESEARCH:

PRIMARY SOURCES: Collected information from Various Text Books and

Websites (Details are mentioned in Bibliography and Footnotes)

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2. HYPOTHESIS

The importance is given to Save Earth from Global Warming all over the

world.

The environment pollution is due to cutting down the trees, increase in

vehicles which resulting in giving out Carbon Dioxide, cutting down the

hills, closing the lakes and converting them into residential and commercial

lands, etc.,.

The nature is God given gift to the mankind which is hidden with many

preventive measures in itself which man cannot think of.

The earth has its own tolerance level which man cannot test it. When the

tolerance limit of the earth exceeds, mankind should suffer its after-effects.

Today, we think it is government’s job to save our planet. We do not ready

to own any responsibilities in this regard.

Today a lot of NGOs, Giant IT Companies and Other Top companies in

India as well as worldwide have come forward to work towards reducing

Global Warming and prevent environment pollution so that attempting to

save our natural resources.

As a first step, we have to bring this awareness among our people so that

they could teach their children about starting saving our natural resources

from home itself.

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3. PROBLEM

The Global Warming is resulted in Global Problem today. It is the burning

issue of today’s world. It is threatening to see that we are inviting our own end by

ending our own nature for our selfishness. The global warming is being increased

day-by-day which causing an alarm among the mankind. The global warming is

being increased due to greediness and Selfishness of human beings which resulted

in Environment Pollution. We are destroying our nature with our own hands. This

made me to select this topic for my project. We need to give utmost importance in

saving our own earth. A relevant education needs to be given to our children and

youth in this regard. We need to bring awareness about avoiding environment

pollution so that we can bring down the global warming.

The environment is the surroundings in which an organization operates,

including air, water, land, natural resources, flora, fauna, human beings and their

interrelation. According to the first law of Thermodynamics, Matter and Energy

cannot be created or destroyed. Thus we can never really get rid of anything! In the

natural processes, matter and energy tend to flow in cycles. Environmental quality

is maintained by these cycles and the interactions between them. Have you ever

wondered that one day, there may not be anyone alive anymore? To be concerned

about environmental issues is not done for the sake of the environment, but rather,

to secure the people who are depending on it.

The environment has arrived! It is no longer just the air we breathe, or the

world we live in, it has become a requirement for businesses to address the

environment in order to build lasting relationships with customers, and thrive in an

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ever more critical global economy. With many pressing problems in the world

right now such as poverty, war etc, why do we need to show interest in the

conservation of our environment?

Planet Earth, the third rock from the sun and the fifth largest is home to a

multitude of living creatures including homosapiens the two-legged; myopic;

highly volatile and cantankerous creatures whose number has increased multiple

times over in the last decade alone bringing with it a huge strain on the resources

needed to satisfy his wants.

In the last four decades or so, Man has become aware that not everything is

well with his environment. He has come to realize that he cannot take Mother

Nature for granted. Global warming, acid rain, the depleting ozone layer, delayed

monsoons, floods and such natural disasters are issues that are beginning to worry

mankind. To his dismay, he found that it does not take a nuclear bomb alone to

destroy this wonderful planet that he lives on.

Today, as he looks to his future, he sees natural resources like water, wood,

oil etc., that he took for granted, dwindling away, and faces the bleak prospect of a

life without many of these once abundant raw material. And when he started

wondering how this horrifying thing was happening, he could see that he had

himself and none other to blame for this catastrophe. If the Chernobyl nuclear

accident and the Bhopal gas tragedy were examples of destruction due to industrial

callousness, man got a taste of what unhygienic living habits could lead to after the

calamity in the form of Plague in Surat.

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CHAPTER – II

“ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION AND GLOBAL

WARMING”

Definition of Environment

The term Environment is derived from the French word “Environner”, which

means “to surround”. The term environment literally means the surroundings and

conditions under which men live and work. Environment refers to the sum total of

all conditions and influences that affect the development of life of all organisms.

According to section 2(a) of the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986,

“environment includes water, air and land and human beings, other living

creatures, plants, microorganism and property.”

Environmental Pollutant

According to section 2(b) of the Act, “environmental pollutant means any

solid, liquid or gaseous substance present in such concentration as may be, or tend

to be injurious to environment”.

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Environmental Pollution

According to section 2(c) of the Act, “environmental pollution” means the

presence in the environment of any environmental pollutant”.

(A) GENESIS OF THE PROBLEM

In order to achieve sustainable development environment protection

constitutes an integral part of developmental process and it cannot be considered in

isolation. Peace, development and environment are interdependent and invisible.8

Today we are confronted with a perpetuation of disparities between and within

nations, a worsening of poverty, hunger, ill health and illiteracy, and the continuing

deterioration of the ecosystem on which we depend for our well-being. However,

integration of environment and development concerns and greater attention to them

will lead to the fulfillment of basic needs, improved living standards for all, better

protected and managed ecosystem and a safer, more prosperous future.9

There is a close relationship which exists between a healthy environment

and economic condition of the community at large. The problem of environmental

pollution is the problem of both developed and under developed or poor nations.

As far as developing nations are concerned, “poverty and lack of development”

constitute an essential element of the problem of environmental pollution. In fact,

the poverty is the worst form of pollution. The poor people who do not have

means to get one meal a day, clothes to cover themselves and shelter to live in,

cannot possibly think about the environment protection. For them any method by

8 Principles 4 and 25 of the Rio Declaration of 1992.9 See the Preamble to the Agenda – 21.

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which they can survive is the best, least caring about its effect on the environment.

They are not educated and hence they are not having enough awareness to know or

understand the problem. On the other hand, the developed countries have

problems of their own. Over Production, nuclear radiations, over exploitation of

resources, industrial wastes in different forms, industrial accidents and the living

style of the people are some of the contributing factors for environmental problem

in the developed countries.

The present century, particularly, in the later half has seen a lot of growth

and economic development in almost all the countries. The methods of economic

development, which mankind has followed, are also creating environmental

problem. With the industrial and technological development, mankind has not

only improved the economic conditions but also altered the natural ecological

balance. Industrialization, urbanization and erosion of biodiversity have affected

the natural environment adversely.10

(B) INDIAN SCENARIO

In India, as elsewhere in the world, uncontrolled growth and consequent

environmental deterioration is fast assuming menacing proportions and all Indian

Cities and majority of the population are afflicted with the problem. Global

warming, ozone depletion and toxic pollution are some of the negative effects of

existing development strategy.

10 B.K.Jindal, K.L. Toky and Paramjit S. Jaswal, Environmental Studies, 292-93 (1997). See also T.N. Godavarman Thirumalpad V. Union of India, (2002) 10 SCC 606 at 621; Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board v. O. Kenchappa, (2006) 6 SCC 371 at 380.

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Today, most of our rivers are polluted. Deforestation of most of our forests

is increasing day by day. Leakage of poisonous gases and other harmful gases,

liquids and solid wastes from the industries has almost become a regular

phenomenon of the present day. The problem of noise pollution, particularly, in

big cities is at alarming stage. Land erosion through winds and water has become

the common feature.

(C) ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND RELIGIOUS AND

CULTURAL HERITAGE IN INDIA

Professor Paras Diwan has expressed the view that “traditionally we are a

pollution loving nation”. According to him:

We pollute air by bursting crackers on Diwali, Dussehra and on the

occasions of marriages and other festivals. We pollute our rivers by disposing of

our dead bodies and all other human and other waste. We take out so much wood

from our trees for fuel that in many areas trees have become scarce. We are

primarily a vegetarian nation, but our wildlife is on the verge of extinction. We are

lovers’ cleanliness and, therefore, broom out all our household and other waste on

the public streets. Any space is good enough for us to ease. We are a country

which believes in open latrines. Municipalities are oblivious of their duties and all

city wastes, human and industrial effluents are allowed to flow in open drains and

to flood the streets. We are equally fond of noise pollution. God men’s voice must

be heard by all, day and night, and our Ratjagas, Akhandpaths and ozone must use

loudspeakers and amplifiers; no one should be deprived from hearing God’s and

God man’s voice – and Gods too are far away beyond the hell and heaven. Our

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Voice must reach them; otherwise our spiritual needs will remain unmonitored.

We are not less noisy in our secular matters. Our marriage and burial processions

must be accompanied by bands, twists and Bhangras.11

However, from the above observations it should not be understood that in

ancient India there was no concern for environment protection and that this

concern is only of recent origin. In fact, the concern for environment protection in

India can be traced back to the period between 321 and 300 B.C. The ancient

Indian law on environment protection is found in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.12 It

was the dharma of each individual in the society to protect the nature. The people

worshipped the objects of nature. The trees, water, land and animals gained

important position in the ancient times.13 The cultural and religious heritages of

Indians show a deep concern for the protection and preservation of the

environment.

Environmental pollution was controlled rigidly in the ancient times. It was

not an affair limited to an individual or individuals but the society as a whole

accepted its duty to protect the environment.14

The Indian society has, since time immemorial, been conscious of the

necessity of protecting environment and ecology. The main motto of social life

has been “to live in harmony with nature”. Sages and saints of India lived in

forests. Their preaching contained in Vedas, Upanishad’s, smritis, etc. are ample

11 Id., at 11.12 See Armin Rosencranz., Shyam Divan Martha L. Noble, Environmental Law and Policy in India – Cases, Material And Statutes, 27 (1991)13 C.M. Jariwala, “Changing Dimensions of Indian Environmental Law”, in P. Leelakrishanan (Ed.) Law And Environment, 1-25 at 2 (1992).14 See T.N. Godavarman Thirumalpad V. Union of India, (2002) 10 SCC 606 Para 20

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evidence of the society’s respect for plants, trees, earth, sky, air, water and every

form of life. It was regarded as a sacred duty of everyone to protect them. In those

days, people worshipped trees, rivers and sea which were treated as belonging to

all living creatures. The children were educated by their parents and grandparents

about the necessity of keeping the environment clean and protecting earth, rivers,

sea, forests, trees, flora, fauna and every species of life.15

In Hinduism, we find that from Vedic period, the environment was part of

ethos of ancient people. In Rig Veda, it is mentioned that the universe consists of

five basic elements. They are Earth, Water, Air, Fire and Ether (space). These

five elements provide the basis for life in everything and man is ordained to

conserve them. It is further ordained that nobody will destroy vegetation and no

one shall kill animals. Thus, it shows compassion for both animals and plants.

The basic tenets of Buddhism are simplicity and ahimsa or non-violence.

Both these principles of Buddhism are of great importance in the conservation and

protection of natural environment. The principle of simplicity teaches us that man

should not overexploit the natural resources. Man should not become greedy to

earn more and more in the shortest possible time by exploiting the natural wealth

And leaving nothing for the future generation.

The other basic principle of Buddhism, i.e., ahimsa or non-violence,

teaches us that we should not kill animals. It shows the love for fauna and flora.

In Buddhism we also find emphasis on tree plantation and their preservation.

King Ashoka wanted the non-violence to be the cultural heritage of the people.

Therefore, punishment was prescribed for killing animals.

15 See Fomento Resorts and hotels Ltd. V. Minguel Martins, (2009)3 SCC 57.

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The basic thrust of Jainism is on the minimum destruction of living and

non-living resources for the benefit of man. People following Jainism also believe

in the principle of simplicity, i.e., to meet their minim um needs without over-

exploiting the nature and natural wealth. Thus, Jainism is also based on the

principle which is in close harmony with nature and help in protecting and

preserving the nature.

The Holy Koran declares that everything is created from water. Thus, there

is a significance of purity of water. Allah is considered to be the owner of land

and mankind is the trustee or guardian whereas other living creatures are

considered to be the beneficiaries. In Islam also there is close harmony between

man and nature.

Christians are baptized in water, as a sign of purification. In fact, in almost

all religions, a common thread is the sacred quality of water. Pope Paul VI, in his

message to the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held at

Stockholm in June, 1972 stated that the environment and resources are for

everyone; they are inalienable property of everyone, and there does not exist over

this universal property discretionary sovereignty exempting from responsibility

towards the humanity of today and tomorrow. This message of Pope Paul makes it

amply clear that there is a close link between Christianity and environment and the

thrust is for sustainable development. The man of today should not exploit the

natural resources in such a way so that nothing is left for the coming generations.

Sikh religion is comparatively of recent origin. The concern for

environment is evident from the fact that it considers every creature to be the

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incarnation of God and hence conservation and preservation are essential

principles.

(D) GLOBAL ISSUES OF DEPLETION OF OZONE LAYER AND

GLOBAL WARMING (GREEN HOUSE EFFECT)

The depletion of ozone layer and global warming (Green House Effect) is one

of the major problems before the present generation. In order to understand the

phenomenon of global warming and green house effect it is necessary to

understand about the ozone layer and the role it plays in the protection of this

planet Earth.

1. Ozone Layer

Ozone (O3) is a colorless gas, which is allotropy of oxygen (O2). Thus, it

has three atoms as compared to oxygen, which has two atoms. Ozone is produced

by recombination of oxygen under the influence of ultraviolet radiations from sun

in the upper layers of atmosphere. The ozone formation occurs 16 km above the

surface of the earth. It is mainly found in the stratosphere and extends from 12 km

to 35 km. This part of the stratosphere, which is rich in ozone, is called ozone

sphere, ozone umbrella or ozone layer.

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2. Ozone Layer as Protective Umbrella

The presence of ozone layer in the stratosphere forms a protective umbrella

around the earth. It absorbs the harmful short wave ionizing ultraviolet (UV)

radiations coming from the sun and thus prevents them from reaching the surface

of the earth. These ultraviolet (UV) radiations are very harmful and if all the

ultraviolet (UV) radiations coming from the sun reach the surface of the earth then

there would be no life on this earth planet. Thus, ozone layer forms a protective

umbrella around the earth and protects all the living organisms on the earth from

the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiations coming from the sun. In this

way ozone layer acts as a great friend of mankind and all other living creatures. It

also plays a crucial role in controlling the earth’s temperature, wind pattern and

rain, etc.

3. Depletion of Ozone Layer and Ozone Hole

This highly useful ozone layer blanket in the upper atmosphere has been

under threat by a wide range of human activities. Though most of the ozone is

produced above the equator of the earth as the maximum sun rays fall directly in

that region, yet the highest concentration of ozone has been noted in the polar

region. This is due to global air circulation. In the year 1985, Farman and his

team of scientists noted that a gap or hole in ozone layer exists over the Antarctica

region of the earth. This is called Antarctica Hole or Ozone Hole. In fact, there is

no actual hole in the ozone layer has many adverse effects. The ultraviolet (UV)

rays, which were earlier almost completely blocked by this ozone layer, can now

enter the earth’s lower atmosphere to some extent through this ozone hole. This

will increase gradually the level of ultraviolet (UV) radiations reaching the surface

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of the earth. As stated earlier, high level of ultraviolet (UV) radiations are harmful

to nearly all forms of life.

(E) PREVENTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

The global problem of the present day is the environmental pollution. The

environmental pollution is a serious threat to the existence and survival of human

race. Unpolluted air to breathe, uncontaminated water to drink, nutritious food to

eat and hygienic condition to live are unavoidable essentials for survival of human

race. Land surface, water resources, atmosphere, forests and wild life are part and

parcel of the environment. An unpolluted environment helps all round

development of one’s personality and a bad environment inhibits its development.

It affects living beings both directly and in directly. So environment should be

prevented from being polluted and destroyed.

Man is considered to be the most intellectual gene among the creations of God. In

his greed for socio-economic progress man has initiated exploitation of not only

his co-human and other being, but also the bounty of natural resources. In this

process man has reached to an extreme stage of polluting his own surrounding

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environment thereby endangering the very existence of peaceful and natural living

of all beings.

(F) CAUSES OF POLLUTION

1. Increasing use of chemicals and fertilizers in the productive process and

programmers’ of industry and agriculture.

2. Growing methods of research and development in Science and Technology.

3. Atomic tests

4. Construction works leading to the emission of dust and other particles

5. Loud sounds and resounds causing vibrations and noise pollution

6. Deforestation for human dwelling and other purposes causing destruction of

forest resources and wildlife

7. Mining Operations

8. Mechanization

9. Transportation

10. Unnatural storage of water

11. Unplanned sewerage and drainage systems

12. Population growth with concomitant poverty and frustration

(G) GROWING ATTACKS ON THE ENVIRONMENT

1. Poisonous Gases

In metropolitan cities of India around 800-1000 tons of poisonous gases are

being released every day in the atmosphere in which 50% is contributed by Motor

Vehicles, 20% by housing fuels and the rest by industries around the cities.

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2. Loud Noise

In big cities noise pollution has reached up to 90 decibels as against the limit

for human tolerance which is only 20-40 decibels. This is likely to cause high

blood pressure, cardiac diseases and deafness.

3. Ozone Depletion

In the atmosphere around earth, at about 16 to 60 Kms. above earth surface,

Ozone gas forms a layer around earth. This ozone layer protects all inhabitants and

vegetation on earth from the dangerous ultra-violet solar radiation which are

powerful enough to damage living cells apart from causing sun-burns and skin

diseases like skin cancer. Ozone gas is produced by the union of atomic oxygen

formed by the splitting of molecular oxygen by sunlight with the molecules of

oxygen. The emission of chloro flouro-carbons and nitrous oxide by industrial

units on earth destroys this atmosphere ozone layer and causes the creation of holes

in this protective covering of earth, resulting in ultraviolet sun light reaching earth

which is responsible for the increase of skin cancer.

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4. Acid Rain

The presence of dangerous gases produced by the burning of petroleum

products and military ammunition on earth produces dangerous gases like sulphur

dioxide and ammonia. These gases precipitate as acid rain on earth which

contains sulphuric acid and nitric acid among other dangerous acids. The acid rain

causes defoliation and death of trees, pollution of lakes killing all living creatures

in them and ultimately resulting in infiltration of dangerous chemicals into the soil

and ground water.

5. Nuclear Energy

The use of nuclear energy on a vast scale by the developed countries for

peaceful and military purpose has put the Mother Earth and the environment in a

new danger of pollution by nuclear radiation. The life on this planet is becoming

more dangerous with the addition of every atomic power station or atomic weapon.

6. Industrial Resolution

The emergence of the Industrial Revolution encouraged the growth of

factories and the labour needs of the factories resulted in the migration of

population from villages to urban area which was largely situated alongside rivers.

In these areas Industrial and household refuse and wastes are disposed off directly

into streams and those results in the pollution of river water.

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(H) DESTRUCTION OF NATURAL CALAMITIES

Over exploitation of forests have destroyed natural soil conservation,

damaged water resources and natural compost and natural beauty. It has also

resulted in increased release of carbon dioxide in the air (since trees are the

pools/banks of the carbon dioxide), thereby creating the “greenhouse” effect. This

“greenhouse” effect has added to global warming and change of climatic pattern

throughout the world. As a result of which there is rain in the Thar Desert and

Chirapunji is no more a place of highest rainfall in the world.

Mythological studies reveal that when the degree of ‘Sin’ (offence) on the

Earth raises to its maximal, making the life impossible, the God, the invisible,

incarnates on Earth to be her savior. But to one’s own unexpectations, apparently,

today, in the modern high-tech and scientific era, man, a creation of God, is self-

volunteering to save the Mother Earth from growing ‘Sin’ of “Environmental

Pollution”. In this direction, the United Nations Conference on the Human

Environment held at Stockholm during the period from June 5 to 16, 1972 was

the real maiden attempt. This conference has virtually alarmed the immediate need

to take necessary steps to control the menace or dangers of pollution of earth, air

and space. The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development

convened at Rio-de-Janeiro, Brazil in June 1992 (Popularly known as Earth

Summit) also reaffirmed the philosophy as originated at the Stockholm

Conference, 1972.

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(I) SOURCES AND KINDS OF POLLUTION

The object of the environmental law is to preserve and protect the nature’s

gifts to man such as water, air, earth and atmosphere from pollution. In order to

effectively protect the environment from pollution, first of all we should ascertain

the meaning, the sources, and different kinds of pollutions.

1. Natural causes:

Pollution caused by the operation of natural forces such as cyclone, flood,

earthquake, etc., are called ‘natural pollution’ or ‘pollution caused by natural

causes’. In the case of natural pollution, there is no intervention of human agency.

2. Artificial Causes

Pollution caused by intervention of human agency is called ‘artificial

pollution’ or ‘pollution by artificial causes’. The following constitute ‘artificial

pollution’:

(a) Population Growth

(b) Industrialization

3. Population Growth

Population explosion is a serious threat to the developing countries like

India. Population is growing by leaps and bounds. The rapid growth of population

and consequential demand for food products, goods and commodities compel the

people to exploit the natural resources without considering the adverse effect on

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environment. The discharge of house-hold wastes, dust resulting from

construction work, fumes resulting from housing fuel, poisonous gases and sound

emitting from motor vehicles, etc., cause pollution of water, air and land.

4. Industrialization

The main source of environmental pollution is rapid growth of

industrialization. Industries release noxious and hazardous gas (methylisocynate)

released from Union Carbide Corporation India Ltd., on December 4, 1984

claimed thousands of lives of men and cattle. The wastes and effluents from the

factories are released into nearby water bodies like rivers, ponds, lakes and the sea.

This result in water pollution. The industrialization results in ozone depletion, acid

rains etc., and making the life in the earth dangerous.

(J) KINDS OF POLLUTION

1. Water Pollution

Water is an important factor in the life of organisms. It is a universal solvent

in which practically all the minerals, present in soil, may be dissolved. It supports

life system. It covers about one-third of the earth’s surface. Clean and pure water

is the inherent right of every man.

Although industries and factories manufacture useful goods, they are also

responsible for creating harmful waste products called “effluents”. They are

generally released into nearby water bodies like rivers, ponds, lakes and the sea.

These chemical effluents adversely affect the life of water animals and plants. Sea

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Water gets polluted by oil spillage from large ships resulting in the death of fish

and other sea animals. Use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers also cause

pollution to water. Water also gets polluted by human and animal excreta and dead

organisms. This contaminated water spreads diseases like typhoid, cholera and

jaundice.

The presences of pollutants in water especially toxic substances either in the

sea, tanks, ponds or wells have affected life on earth badly. People are not getting

clean water to drink, for bath and household activities. In order to prevent

pollution of water our Parliament has enacted the Water (Prevention and Control of

Pollution) Act, 1974.

According to section 2(e) of this Act, “pollution” means such contamination

of water or such alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of

water or such alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of water

or such discharge of any sewage or trade effluent or of any other liquid, gaseous or

solid substance into water (whether directly or indirectly) as may, or is likely to,

create a nuisance or render such water harmful or injurious to public health or

safety, or to domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural or other legitimate uses,

or to the life and health of animals or plants or of aquatics organisms.

The following can be treated as water pollution Contamination of water

which is likely to create a nuisance or render such water harmful or injurious to

public health or safety, or to domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural or other

legitimate uses, or to the life and health of animals or plants or of aquatic

organisms.

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Alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of water which is

likely to create a nuisance. Discharge of any sewage or trade effluent or of any

other liquid, gaseous or solid substance into water which is likely to create a

nuisance. The main cause of water pollution is the discharge of solid or liquid

waste products containing pollutants.

1. Domestic and commercial wastes;

2. Industrial Wastes;

3. Pesticides and chemical fertilizers used in agricultural operation;

4. The acid rain resulting from air pollution;

5. Thermal wastes, etc.

Various measures have been taken for prevention of water pollution in India.

The Indian Parliament passed Act, as supplement to the Environment Protection

Act, 1986 relating to quality of water. Water Pollution Control Boards have been

set up at the Centre and State to promote cleanliness of water and to prevent

pollution. The Municipalities are entrusted with the control of solid wastes

through treatment plants, throughout the country. The Union Ministry of Forests,

Environment and Wild Life have developed action plans for the prevention of

pollution of the rivers, Ganga and Yamuna. Despite above efforts, the massive

problem of water pollution still remains unabated.

2. Air Pollution

Unpolluted air to breathe is the inherent right of every man. Air is the chief

constituent of human life without which we cannot survive for a few minutes. Air

is the mixture of various gases that forms the earth’s atmosphere and it extends up

to the height of about 300 kms, above the earth’s surface. Various gases such as

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nitrogen, carbon dioxide, oxygen and hydrogen which are present in the air

perform various functions useful for living beings. The industrializations, motor

traffic, construction works, housing fuels, incineration (burning of wastes like

rubber, plastic products etc in open place) and natural causes such as earthquake,

cyclone etc., cause pollution to air. In metropolitan cities of India around 800-1000

tons of poisonous gases are being released every day in the atmosphere in which

50% is contributed by motor vehicles, 20% by housing fuels and the rest by

industries.

According to section 2(b) of the Act, “air pollution” means “the presence in

the atmosphere of any air pollutant”. According to section 2(a) of the Act “air

pollutant” means “any solid, liquid or gaseous substance including noise present in

the atmosphere in such concentration as may be or tend to be injurious to human

beings or other living creatures or plants or property or environment”. The

definition of air pollutant includes noise as a potential pollutant. As per the

provisions of Act, the central and State pollution control Boards have been

established to prevent and control air pollution.

3. Land or Soil Pollution

The land or soil is considered to be the heart of life. The major source of

land pollution is the massive amount of solid wastes disposed of by the people.

This includes household refuse, commercial rubbish, industrial wastes, garbage,

trash, automobile, tyres, cans, waste paper, etc. But the most dangerous pollutant

is the plastic components such as plastic bags, plastic papers, plastic wrappers and

other plastic products. These materials remain undecayed for a long time in the

soil, and they not only have nuisance value but also are health hazards. Dumping

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of solid wastes into oceans will affect marine eco-system as well as territorial eco-

system.

Apart from solid wastes, land pollution is causes by the excessive use of

chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Fertilizers are used to improve crop production.

Pesticides are chemicals used to kill insects that attack plants. Both are highly

poisonous and harmful to human beings. Pests increase in number because of an

imbalance in the ecosystem. If snakes are killed in large numbers, the number of

rats will increase. If fish are killed in large numbers, mosquitoes will increase

because eggs are food for fish. Mining operations, felling of trees, agricultural

operations and urbanization result in land pollution.

4. Noise or Sound Pollution

Noise is a form of sound. It is an unwanted or undesired and unpleasant

sound. It is also termed as misplaced sound. It produces bad effect on health. The

most commonly produced effect on health is the loss of hearing capacity and

fatigue. It causes annoyance and sleep interruptions. It may affect digestive

system. It may increase blood pressure.

Industries, stone quarries, loudspeakers, automobiles, aircrafts, trains,

construction works, Radio, Television, etc, are the main sources of noise pollution.

In England, Noise Abatement Act, 1960 was enacted to prevent and control air

pollution. In America, there is Noise Pollution and Abatement Act, 1970 for

prevention of Noise Pollution. In India there is no law exclusively dealing with the

problem of noise. However sections 268 and 290 of the India Penal Code, 1860,

Chapter III of the Factories Act, 1948, The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and the

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rules made there under and the Environmental Protection Act, 1986 and the rules

made there under are useful to prevent and control noise pollution.

The Environmental (Protection) Rules as amended in 1989 prescribe

ambient air quality standards in respect of noise. These standards lay down the day

time and night time limits of noise in industrial, commercial and residential areas

as well as in “silence zones”. The use of vehicle horns, loudspeakers and bursting

of crackers is banned in silence zones. A ‘Silence zone’ has been defined as and

area up to 100 meters around hospitals, educational institutions, courts, etc. Noise

pollution can be mitigated by playing musical instruments at low volumes, banning

the use of loudspeakers and using good quality silencers in motor vehicles and

factories.

In Church of God (Full Gospel) in India V. K.K.R. Majestic Colony Welfare

Association (2000) 7 SCC 282, the respondent Welfare Association filed petition

against the appellant, a minority denominational church, for causing noise

pollution during the course of their regular prayer service. It was undisputed that

the Church used loud-speakers, drums and other instruments during prayers. The

appellant contended that the complaint was a motivated one, aimed at disrupting

the religious activities of a majority religious institution. The High Court found

that there was no malice or objectionable motive in the petition filed by the

respondent Welfare Association. The High court clearly held that as the noise

created by the church loudspeakers exceeded permissible decibel level it is to be

reduced. The Church preferred an appeal to the Supreme Court.

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The Supreme Court dismissed the appeal and held

Undisputedly, no religion prescribes that prayers should performed by

disturbing the peace of others nor does it preach that they should be through voice

amplifiers or beating of drums. In a civilized society in the name of religion,

activities which disturb old or infirm persons, students or children having their

sleep in the early hours or during daytime or other persons carrying on other

activities cannot be permitted. Aged, sick people afflicted with physic

disturbances as well as children up to 6 years of age are considered to be very

sensitive to noise. Their rights are also required to be honored.

Under the Environmental Protection Act, 1986, rules for noise- pollution

level are framed which prescribe permissible limits of noise in residential,

commercial, industrial areas, or silence zone. The question is, whether the

appellant can be permitted to violate the said provisions and add to noise pollution.

Even to claim such a right it would be unjustifiable. In these days noise pollution

has become more serious with the increasing trend towards industrialization,

urbanization and modernization and is having many evil effects including danger

to health. It may cause interruption to sleep, affect communication, loss of

efficiency, hearing loss or deafness, high blood pressure, depression, irritability,

fatigue, gastro-intestinal problems, allergy, distraction, mental stress and

annoyance. This also affects the animal life. The extent of damage depends upon

the duration and the intensity of noise. Sometimes it leads to serious law and order

problem. Further, in an organized society rights are related with duties towards

others including neighbors’. Under such a circumstances it is not possible to allow

the Church to increase the noise pollution by beating drums or by use of voice

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amplifiers, loudspeakers or by such other musical instruments beyond the

permissible limits.

5. Food Pollution

Every living being requires food to grow and to obtain energy for carrying

on his activities. If the food is polluted and adulterated it will cause injurious

effect on the consumer. Food gets polluted from its source to its use. Food

pollution begins when chemicals are used for plant growth. These chemicals

directly and indirectly affect the quality of food. Food also gets polluted during

processing, storage, transportation and retailing. In addition to the above causes

the food is polluted by intentional act of food adulteration. In order to prevent

food adulteration, the Parliament of India has enacted the Prevention of Food

Adulteration Act, 1954.

6. Radio-active Pollution

Radio-active pollution is the pollution caused by the blast of atoms. Some

elements like radium, uranium, etc, emit invisible effects known as radiations. The

emission of these invisible radiations is known as radio-activity and such

substances are called radio-active substances. Radio-active substances emit three

kinds of rays known as alpha rays, beta rays and gamma rays. Out of these three

gamma rays are most dangerous for living beings. Nuclear power plants and

testing of atom bombs are the main sources of radioactive pollution. Atomic

pollution is a slow and silent killer but very lethal. In order to control and regulate

use of atomic energy, the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 has been enacted by the Indian

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Parliament. Nevertheless, our environment is exposed to greater atomic pollution

due to the magnitude of use of atomic energy.

(K) IMPACT OF GLOBAL WARMING

Global warming is the greatest challenge facing our planet.16 It is, in fact,

the increase in the temperature of the earth’s neon- surface air. It is one of the

most current and widely discussed factors. It has far-reaching impact on

biodiversity and climatic conditions of the planet. Several current trends clearly

demonstrate that global warming is directly impacting on rising sea levels, the

melting of ice caps and significant worldwide climate changes. In short, global

warming represents a fundamental threat to all living things on earth.  Global

average temperature rose significantly during the past century. The prevailing

scientific view is that most of the temperature increases since mid-20th century has

been caused by increases in atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations produced

by human activity. Most scientists agree that planet’s temperature has risen 0.5

degree Celsius since 1900 and will continue to increase at an increasing rate. As a

result, the world is getting warmer.

Wetlands are lost as the level rises. Rise in atmospheric temperature will

lead to the outbreak of air borne and water-borne diseases. It would also contribute

to the rise in death caused by heat. The problem of drought would be frequent.

Consequently, malnutrition and starvation will pose serious challenge before

humanity.  Global warming is a great threat to the flora and fauna of the earth. A

large number of species of them may become extinct. The expanse of desert would

increase. Low rainfall and rising temperature could add to the intensity and

16 http://www.shareyouressays.com/2893/1309-words-essay-on-global-warming-causes-effects-and-remedies

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frequency of dusty storm. This in turn will immensely affect the quality of

agricultural land, ultimately causing adverse effect on agricultural produce. It

would have far-reaching socio-economic impact.  In Indian context, the impact of

global warming is a matter of grave concern. As is well known, India is mainly an

agricultural country and agriculture here is gamble of the monsoon, e.g. largely

depending on rainfall. Though it is to affect the whole country, the worst likely

impact would be on central and northern India which is high-yielding parts of the

country. These are the regions which produce the largest agricultural yield. The

rise in atmospheric temperature and fall in rain would naturally result in decline in

crop production. Moreover, it would have great effect on biodiversity as well. 

The growing concerns over global temperatures have led to the nations,

states, corporations and individuals to draw out a plan of action to avert the

situation. As a result the world’s primary international agreement on combating

global warming was reached in Kyoto in 1997 which came to be known as Kyoto

Protocol. However, ten years have passed; the situation does not appear to be very

changed. It seems that the member countries are not very serious about its

devastating effects.  In addition, forestation can be of great help in this regard.

Planting more trees and reducing timber cuts worldwide will help restore the

imbalance. Secondly, we must follow on environmental policy of ‘reduce, reuse,

recycle’, i.e. promoting the reuse of anything. Thirdly, the use of fuel-efficient

vehicles should be promoted as these vehicles have lower emissions of harmful

gases. Fourthly, every individual should be aware of the importance of the

protecting environment. Besides, eco- friendly technologies must be promoted,

and must be substituted with the technologies which cause great emission of global

warming gases. Public awareness campaign can be of great help in this regard

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because unless each and every individual is aware only governments’ effect cannot

bring desired difference.

One of the biggest problems facing the world today is global warming.17

Many scientists believe that our production of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse

gases is having a heating effect on the atmosphere, and this could be very

dangerous for human life. Many problems could result from global warming. One

of the biggest problems is raising sea level. This could result in the flooding of

low lying coastal areas and cities, such as Egypt, the Netherlands, and Bangladesh.

Some countries might even disappear completely! Another problem caused by

global warming is changes in weather patterns. Many areas of the world are

experiencing increased hurricanes, floods, and other unusual weather. A third

problem associated with global warming is the effect on animals. Fish populations

could be affected, while some insects which spread disease might become more

common. There are several things we can do to solve the problem of global

warming. One solution is to stop producing C02. We can do this by switching

from oil, coal and gas to renewable energy. Another solution is to plant more

trees. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, which is not a greenhouse

gas. A third solution is to use less energy and to recycle more products.

Generating electricity is one of the main sources of carbon dioxide. If we use less

electricity, we will produce less C02.

17 http://www.admc.hct.ac.ae/hd1/english/probsoln/prob_solv_gw2.htm

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CHAPTER – III

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CONSTITUTIONAL MANDATE AND

INTERNATIONAL CONCERN

(A) CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITMENTS

Indian Constitution is perhaps one of the rare constitutions of the world

which contains specific provisions relating to environment protection. It puts duty

on the “State”18 as well as “citizens”19 to protect and improve the environment.

The judicial grammar of interpretation has made the right to live in healthy

environment as sanctum sanctorum of human rights. Now it is considered as an

integral part of right to life under article 21 of the Constitution.20

Articles 32 and 226 of the Constitution empower the Supreme Court and the

High Courts, respectively, to issue directions, orders or writs, including writs of

habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto and certiorari. The

writs of mandamus, certiorari and prohibition are generally resorted to

environmental matters.

The Indian judiciary has made an extensive use of these constitutional

provisions and developed a new “environmental jurisprudence” of India.21 In India

most of the environmental matters have been brought before the judiciary through

“Public Interest Litigation” (PIL). Out of all the legal remedies available for the

18 See Article 48-A, of the Constitution of India19 See Article 51-A(g)20 For details of this aspect, see infra chapter III on “Constitutional Provisions and Environment Protection in India”.21 See infra Chapter V on “Sustainable Development and Judiciary in India”.

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protection of environment, the remedy under the constitution is preferred because

of its relative speed, simplicity and cheapness.

The Supreme Court while developing a new environmental jurisprudence

has held that the powers of the Supreme Court under Article 32 are not restricted

and it could award damages in public interest litigation or writ petition in those

cases where there has been any harm or damage to the environment due to

pollution. In addition to damages, the person guilty of causing pollution can also

be held liable to pay exemplary damages so that it may act as deterrent for others

not to cause pollution in any manner. The said approach of the Supreme Court is

based on “Polluter Pays Principle”. 22 The Supreme Court has imposed exemplary

damages on multinational companies such as Coca Cola and Pepsi for damaging

the ecology in the States of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir by painting

advertisements on the rocks. The Supreme Court directed the companies to

remove these advertisements without further polluting the environment.

(B) INTERNATIONAL CONCERN FOR ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION

AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

International concern for environment protection and sustainable

development is comparatively of recent origin. The U.N. Conference on Human

Environment and Development at Stockholm in 1972 is considered to be the

Magna Carta of environment protection and sustainable development. This

conference resulted in the “Stockholm Declaration on the Human Environment”.

The Declaration, besides preamble, consists of seven universal truths and twenty

22 See M.C. Mehta V. Kamal Nath, (1997) 1 SCC 388. See also M.C. Mehta V. Kamal Nath, (1999) 1 SCC 702 and M.C. Mehta V. Kamal Nath, (2000) 3 SCC 745. For details see infra chapter V on “Sustainable Development and Judiciary in India”.

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six principles. It proclaimed that man is both creator and molder of his

environment which gives him physical sustenance and affords him the opportunity

of intellectual, moral, social and spiritual growth. Both aspects of man’s

environment, the natural and manmade are essential to his well-being and to the

enjoyment of basic human rights even the right to life itself.

The protection and improvement of the human environment is a major issue

which affects the well-being of people and economic development throughout the

world. A point has been reached in history when we must shape our actions

throughout the world with a more prudent care for their environmental

consequences. To defend and improve the human environment for the present and

future generations has become an imperative goal for mankind- a goal to be

pursued together with, and in harmony with, the established and fundamental goals

of peace and of world-wide economic and social development. To achieve this

environmental goal will demand the acceptance of responsibility by citizens and

communities and by enterprises and institutions at every level, all sharing equitably

in common efforts.

Principle 1 on the Declaration rightly stated that “man has the fundamental

right to freedom, equality and adequate conditions of life, in an environment of a

quality that permits a life of dignity and well-being, and he bears a solemn

responsibility to protect and improve the environment for present and future

generations”.

The report of the World Commission on Environment and Development in

1987 not only provided impetus to sustainable development but also brought in to

focus the common concerns of the people, the report of the World Commission on

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Environment and Development in 1987 not only provided impetus to sustainable

development but also brought into focus the common concerns of the people,

common challenges which we face the world over and the common endeavors’

which we need for peace, security development and environment.

Earth Summit of 1992 at Rio de Janeiro, through Rio Declaration and

Agenda 21, has further concretized the concept of environment protection and

sustainable development.23

In 1997 the World Climate Conference was held at Kyoto (Japan) where a

historic accord was signed by the participating countries for mandatory cuts in

emission of green house gases particularly by the industrialized nations to help in

saving the planets from global warming. In August-September, 2002, the World

Summit on Sustainable Development was held in Johannesburg, South Africa. In

this Summit the representatives of the people of the world adopted the

Johannesburg Declaration on Sustainable development and to build a humane,

equitable and caring global society cognizant of the need for human dignity for all.

Different Conferences of Parties (COP) have regularly insisted on the reduction of

Green House gases. The Kyota Protocol has also come into force w.e.f. 16.2.2005.

(C) PEOPLE’S RESPONSE AND ROLE OF JUDICIARY IN INDIA

23 See infra Chapter IV on “Sustainable Development and the Law”.

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Enactment of a law, but tolerating its infringement, is worse than not

enacting a law at all. Continued tolerance of such violation of law not only renders

legal provisions nugatory but such tolerance by the enforcement machinery

encourages lawlessness and adoption of means which cannot, or ought not to, be

tolerated in any civilized society. A law is usually enacted because the legislature

feels that it is necessary. It is with a view to protect and preserve the environment

and save it for future generations and to ensure good quality of life that the

legislature has enacted anti-pollution laws and incorporated many statutory

provisions for the protection of the environment. Violation of anti-pollution laws

not only adversely affects the existing quality of life but the non-enforcement of

the legal provisions often results in ecological imbalance and degradation of

environment, the adverse effect of which has to be borne by the future

generations.24

The environmental imperative is ultimately a matter of public and private

rights and duties and interests of future generations which are not available as

negotiable commodities to be purchased at any “going rate”.25

Effective environmental protection and improvement is, therefore, a matter

of legal rights and duties.

Therefore, it is essential that the people should be aware of the adverse

consequences of environmental pollution and they should not only protect and

improve the environment but also ensure the compliance of anti-pollution laws and

24 Indian Council for Enviro-legal Action V. Union of India, (1996) 5 SCC 281 at 293 (popularly known as Coastal Protection case).25 Law Society of India V. Fertilizers and Chemicals Travancore Ltd., A.I.R. 1994 Ker. 308 at 321.

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if need be, to take help of the judicial forum to enforce such laws to maintain the

ecological balance.

Fortunately, in India, the people’s response to ecological crisis has been very

positive. In certain cases they have formed the pressure groups and exerted

influence on the government to take decision on certain developmental projects

only after making proper environment impact assessment (EIS). For example,

Silent Valley Movement in Kerala. The role of NGO’s (non-governmental

organizations) in this regard is very important. The scientific and academic

community has contributed their share in environmental decisions by new

researches. For example, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute,

Nagpur (NEERI); The Centre for science and Environment, New Delhi; the Centre

for Environment Education, Ahmadabad, are a few institutions among many others

in the country which are continuously engaged in conducting research in the field

of environment. Some people have shown their deep concern for environmental

issues by filing public interest litigations (PIL) and got favorable directions from

the Courts in appropriate cases. In this regard the name of Mr. M.C. Mehta comes

in the forefront who single-handedly has filed a number of public interest

litigations in the Supreme Court relating to different aspects of the environment

protection. Thus, the environmental activists, lawyers and judges have made their

significant contributions. Local people of the municipality (e.g., in Ratlam) have

raised their voice against the local authorities for the non-performance of their

duties. Thus, in India, the people have responded to the environmental issues at

local level, zonal level, and State level and at the national level in different ways.

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It is interesting as well as significant to note that in India different laws

relating to environment protection recognize the role of people in protecting the

environment.26

“CHIPKO” movement and “APPIKO” movement (in Karnataka) for

saving the forests for exploitation are the examples of peoples’ responses for the

protection of environment by their involvement. In Kerala, at the grass root level,

the campaign against the Silent Valley Project was led by Kerala Sastra Sahitya

Parishad (KSSP). The Society for Protection of Silent Valley filed a PIL against

the government to stop the execution of the project. There has been sustained

agitation by certain environmentalists and social workers against the

Narmada Valley Project. The movement is known as Narmada Bachao

Andolan (NBA) or Save the Narmada Movement, which has been led by Baba

Amte and Medha Patikar. The Tehri Bandh Virodhi Sangharsh Samiti (TBVSS),

led by Shri Sunder Lal Bahuguna has been protesting against the construction

of the Tehri Dam Due to its adverse environmental effects.

26 See for example, Section 91 of C.P.C.; Section 133 of Cr.P.C.; Section 49 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974; Section 43 of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: Section 55 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; and section 19 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

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The judicial response to almost all environmental litigations has been very

positive in India. The primary effort of the Court while dealing with the

environmental related issues is to see that the enforcement agencies, whether it be

the State or any other authority, take effective steps for the enforcement of the

laws. Even though it is not the function of the Courts to see the day to day

enforcement of the law, that being the function of the executive, but because of the

non-functioning of the enforcement agencies to implement the law, the courts as of

necessity have to pass orders directing them to implement the law for the

protection of the fundamental right of people to live in healthy environment.

Passing of the appropriate orders requiring the implementation of the law cannot

be regarded as the court having usurped the function of the legislature or the

executive.27

Though the judicial development of environmental law has been vigorous

and imaginative, yet at times it may be found wanting. It has certain limitations of

its own. For example, in some cases frivolous or vexatious writ petitions are filed

in the name of public interest litigation involving environmental matters. It has

been noticed that such litigations are filed mala fide and arise out of enmity

between the parties. 28 Sometimes the judicial order is not fully obeyed by the

parties concerned. Even the government and its agencies like Pollution Control

Board (PCB) have been issuing directions contrary to the orders of the court.29 The

courts also do not have any scientific and technical expertise in environmental

27 Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action V. Union of India, (1996) 5 SCC 281 at 294 (popularly known as Coastal Protection case)28 See Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar,(1991) 1 SCC 598; and Chhetriya Pradushan Mukti Sagharsh Samiti v. State of U.P., (1990) 4 SCC 449.29 Vineet Kumar Mathur v. Union of India, (1996) 7 SCC 714. See also Vineet kumar Mathur v. Union of India, (1996) 11 SCC 119.

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cases and thus it has to depend upon the findings of various commissions and other

bodies.30 It is because of this reason that the courts have suggested for setting up

of environmental courts to deal with environmental matters.31 The government has

set up the National Environment Appellate Authority in 1998 to hear the appeals

with respect to restrictions of area in which any industries, operations or processes

shall not be carried out or shall be carried out subject to certain safeguards under

the environment (protection) Act, 1986.32

In View of the above scenario, following fundamental key issues arise for

consideration:

(i) How are the “environment” and “sustainable development” defined?

(ii) How has the concept of sustainable development been developed at

the international and national levels?

(iii) What are the constitutional provisions in India for the protection and

improvement of the environment?

(iv) What is the existing legal mechanism ensuring environment protection

and sustainable development?

(v) Is the existing legal mechanism foolproof to ensure environment

protection and quality of life for all?

(vi) What has been the response of the people and NGO’s for the protection

and improvement of the environment?

30 See M.C. Mehta v. Union of India, A.I.R. 1987 S.C. 965 (popularly known as Oleum Gas Leakage case).

31 Ibid, at 982. See also Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India, (1996) 5 SCC 647 (popularly known as T.N. Tanneries case)32 See infra chapter on “Environment(protection) Act, 1986 and the National Environment Appellate Authority Act, 1997”

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(vii) What role has the judiciary played in providing impetus to the movement

of environment protection and sustainable development in India? Is it

only a cosmetic approach by way of public interest litigation or is there

any substance in it?

(viii) What is the impact of socio-economic problems such as poverty,

illiteracy, over population on the environment?

(ix) How to protect the victims of the environmental harm? And how the

basic principles of sustainable development help in this regard?

(D) COMMON LAW AND OTHER STATUTORY REMEDIES

1. Nuisance

Nuisance means anything which annoys hurts or that which is offensive. It

may be in the form of obnoxious smells, noise, fumes, air or water pollution due to

the effluents or discharge or it may be any kind of obstruction which interferes

with the right of the person to which he is otherwise entitled or exclusive use.

Under the Common Law Principle, the nuisance is concerned with then unlawful

interference with the person’s right over wholesomeness of land or of some right

over or in connection with it.

Nuisance can be further divided into two categories. These are:

1. Private Nuisance

2. Public Nuisance

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Private nuisance can be defined as an unreasonable interference with a

general right of the public by above mentioned methods. However, the primary

difference between private and public nuisance lies in the remedies sought.

Public nuisance is both a tort and a crime. But private nuisance is not a

crime but only a tort.

In Ram Baj Singh V. Babu Lal (A.I.R. 1982 All. 285), a person built a brick

grinding machine in front of the consulting chamber of medical practitioner. The

machine was generating lot of dust and noise which polluted the atmosphere and

entered the consulting chamber of the medical practitioner and caused physical

inconvenience to him and the patients. The Allahabad High Court held that it

amounted to private nuisance which can reasonably be said to cause injury,

discomfort or annoyance to a person. The court granted injunction against the

defendant.

2. Trespass

It means direct interference with personal or proprietary rights without

lawful excuse. The tort of trespass is actionable per se and there is no need to

show damage as a result of trespass. There are two things which are required to be

proved for constituting the tort of trespass, i.e., there must be intentional or

negligent interference with the personal or proprietary right and secondly, such

interference must be direct rather than consequential. For example, when A throws

waste on B’s land or when a discharges effluent from his factory on the land

belonging to B intentionally or negligently, it amounts to trespass. The aggrieved

plaintiff can approach a court for compensation and injunction.

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3. Negligence

Negligence means want of care. When there is a duty to take care and the

care is not taken which results in some harm to another person, we can say there

was negligence. It is based on the principle of fault. In order to succeed in an

action for negligence, there has to be some fault on the part of the defendant. In

environmental cases, the tort of negligence is utilized when other torts of nuisance

or trespass are not available. In order to succeed in an action for negligence, it

must be established that there was direct link between the negligence and the harm

caused. Further, it has to be proved that the person guilty of negligence has not

taken due care which he has required to take under the law.

In Naresh Dutt Tyagi V. State of U.P., (1995 Supp (3) SCC 144) Chemical

pesticides were stored in the godown in a residential area. Fumes emanating from

the pesticides leaked to the contiguous property through ventilators which resulted

in death of three children and an infant in the womb of the mother. It was held that

it was a clear case of negligence.

4. Strict Liability and Absolute Liability

The rule of strict liability was evolved in the year 1868 in the case of

Rylands V. Fletcher (1868) LR 3 HL 330 by Blackburn, J.

This rule provides that a person who for his own purpose brings, collects and

keeps on his land anything likely to do mischief by its escape must keep it at his

peril and, if the thing so collected escapes and causes any mischief he is prima

facie liable for the damage which is the natural consequence of its escape. The

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liability under this rule is strict and it is no defense that the things scoped without

that person’s willful act, default or neglect or even that he had no knowledge of its

existence. This rule laid down a principle of liability that if a person who brings in

to his land collects and keeps there anything likely to do harm and such thing

escapes and does damage to another, he is liable to compensate for the damages

caused.

However, this rule of strict liability is subject to following exceptions:

1. An act of God (e.g., flood or earthquake)

2. The act of third party (e.g., sabotage)

3. The plaintiff’s own fault

4. The plaintiff’s consent (volunti non fit injuria)

5. The natural use of the land by the defendant;

6. Statutory authority

The rule of strict liability is very useful in cases of environmental pollution,

particularly, in those cases where the harm is caused by the leakage of hazardous

substances. In order to have the applicability of this rule, two conditions must be

satisfied. Firstly, there must be non-natural use of the land. Secondly, there must

be escape from the land of something which is likely to cause some harm or

mischief if it escapes.

The rule of strict liability was evolved in the 19th century when the modern

developments of science and technology had not taken place. It cannot afford any

guidance in evolving any standard of liability consistent with constitutional norms

and the needs of the present day economy and social structure. Therefore the

Supreme Court of India propounded the Rule of Absolute Liability.

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The rule of absolute liability propounded by the Supreme Court of India is to

provide a law to afford the change in society. The society is ever-changing and the

law cannot afford to remain static. Law should keep pace with changing and the

law cannot afford to remain static. Law should keep pace with changing socio-

economic norms. If a law in the past did not fit in the present context, the court

should evolve a new law. The rule of Absolute liability propounded by the

Supreme Court is an extension Rule in Rylands V. Fletcher. The rule of absolute

liability was propounded by our Supreme Court while deciding the case M.C.

Mehta V. Union of India.

(E) FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS

RIGHT TO LIFE AND RIGHT TO LIVE IN HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

1. In M.C. Mehta V. Union of India,33 where the tanneries were discharging

effluents from their factories in the holy river Ganga resulting in water

pollution and not setting up a primary treatment plant in spite of being asked

to do for several years, nor even caring to express their willingness to take

appropriate steps to establish primary treatment plant, it was held that so far

as they are concerned, an order directing them to stop working their

tanneries should be passed as effluent discharged from tanneries is ten times

noxious when compared with the domestic sewage water which flows into

the river. Accordingly, the Court passed the following order:

We are, therefore, issuing the directions for the closure of those tanneries

which have failed to take minimum steps required for the primary treatment of 33 A.I.R. 1988 S.C. 1037

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industrial effluent. We are conscious that closure of tanneries may bring

unemployment, loss of revenue, but life, health and ecology have greater

importance to the people.

The Court also rejected the plea of financial incapability to set up the

treatment plant. In this regard the Court observed:

The financial capacity of the tanneries should be considered as irrelevant

while, requiring them to establish primary treatment plants. Just like an industry

which cannot pay minimum wages to its workers cannot be allowed to exist, a

tannery which cannot set up a primary plant cannot be permitted to continue to be

in existence, for, the adverse effect on the public at large is likely to ensue by the

discharging of the trade effluents from the tannery to the river Ganga would be

immense and it will outweigh any inconvenience that may be caused to the

management and the labour employed by it on account of its closure.

From the above decision it is evident that the Court has considered the protection

and improvement of environment as a matter of general public interest and

employed this tool in putting reasonable restrictions on the citizen’s right to carry

on any trade occupation and business.

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2. In M.C. Mehta v. Union of India,34 (popularly known as Oleum Gas Leakage

case), the supreme court one again impliedly treated the right to live pollution

free environment as a part of fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the

Constitution.35 A clarion call was given by the Andhra Pradesh High court when

34 A.I.R. 1987 S.C 1086. See also A.I.R. 1987 S.C. 965.35 Id., at 1089

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in monumental judgment of T. Damodhar Rao v. S.O. Municipal Corporation,

Hyderabad,36 it observed:

It would be reasonable to hold that the enjoyment of life and its attainment

and fulfillment guaranteed by Article 21 of the Constitution embraces the

protection and preservation of nature’s gifts without (which) life cannot be

enjoyed. There can be no reason why practice of violent extinguishment of life

alone should be regarded as violative of Article 21 of the Constitution. The slow

poisoning by the polluted atmosphere caused by environmental pollution and

spoliation should also be regarded as amounting to violation of Article 21 of the

constitution.

Thus, the right to live in healthy environment was specifically declared to be

a part of Article 21 of the Constitution. In this case, the petitioners prayed that the

land kept for recreational park under the developmental plan ought not to be

allowed to be used by the Life Insurance Corporation or Income Tax Department

for constructing residential houses.

36 A.I.R. 1987A.P. 171

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CHAPTER – IV

ANALYSIS OF GLOBAL WARMING WITH

INCIDENTS AND EFFECTS

Global Warming affects the natural balance of environment. The world

climate is going a significant change day by day.37

There are many causes of Global Warming. The destruction and burning

down of tropical forests , traffic clogging up the city streets , rapid growth of

unplanned industries, the use of CFCs in packaging and manufacturing products,

the use of detergents etc. cause Global Warming. Besides, overpopulation,

deforestation are the causative factors of Global Warming. The setting up of mills

and factories in an unplanned way has a great effect on environment. These mills

and factories produce black smoke which gets mixed with air and increases the

amount of CO2.

Burning of Gas such as Methane (CH4) and fuel also increase CO2 in the

environment. Killing animals like birds, big cats, lions, tigers are also an alarming

cause of Global Warming.

(A) HARMFUL EFFECTS OF DEPLETION OF OZONE LAYER37 http://www.preservearticles.com/201107119041/free-essay-on-global-warming.html

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Due to the depletion of the ozone layer, more ultraviolet (UV) radiations will

fall on the surface of the earth and it will cause the following harmful effects:

i. Increase in ultraviolet (UV) radiations will result in the increase of skin

cancer among human beings and animals.

ii. The increase in ultraviolet radiations reduces considerably the

photosynthetic pigment of the plants. Thus, it adversely affects the

productivity and growth of plants.

iii. Ultraviolet radiations suppress the immune system of the body and thus

many more new diseases will occur in the body.

iv. The increased ultraviolet radiations will also kill many plants and animals

and thus the food chain will be disturbed and consequently ecosystem will

also be affected.

v. The increase in ultraviolet radiations will increase the carbon dioxide (CO2)

near the surface of the earth which will result in global warming

vi. Due to the increase in ultraviolet radiations, the life on the earth planet will

become impossible.

(B) GREEN HOUSE EFFECT

It has been discussed above that there is a protective layer of ozone in

stratosphere, that is, in the upper part of the atmosphere. There is also a blanket

or layer of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas in the lower atmosphere. When the

sunlight consisting of ultraviolet rays, visible light and infra-red rays fall on the

top of the atmosphere, then first of all the harmful ultraviolet radiations are

absorbed by the ozone layer. The visible and infra-red rays pass through the

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layer of carbon dioxide and fall on the surface of the earth. It must be noted

that the infra-red rays coming from the sun are of short wavelength and they

pass through the layer of carbon dioxide easily. The infra-red rays have the

unique heating effect in them so they heat the earth and various objects on the

surface of the earth. Since the earth and its objects become hot, they also start

emitting heat rays or infra-red rays. These infra-red rays are of long

wavelength. These infra-red rays cannot escape out from the carbon dioxide

layer in the atmosphere. In other words, the blanket of carbon dioxide gas in

the atmosphere traps all the infra-red rays or heat rays in the atmosphere and the

atmosphere of the earth is heated up. This heating up of the atmosphere of the

earth due to the trapping of infra-red rays of long wavelength by the carbon

dioxide layer in the atmosphere is called green house effect. Thus, green house

effect is the progressive warming up of the earth’s surface due to blanketing

effect of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. The thick layer of carbon

dioxide in the atmosphere works like the glass panels of greenhouse or just like

the glass windows of motor-car, that allows the sunlight to filter through it, but

prevent the heat from being x-radiated in outer space.

(C) GREEN HOUSE GASES

Those gases which can trap the infra –red rays to produce green house effect

leading to heating up of the environment are called green house gases. We have

already stated that basically it is the carbon dioxide alone, which is responsible

for causing the green house effect. However, in addition to carbon dioxide,

water vapors, methane gas, nitrous oxide and ozone layer also have the ability

to trap the infrared- radiations and thus they are also called green house gases.

But water vapors are present very near to the surface of the earth and ozone

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layer is present in upper part of the atmosphere and as such they do not

contribute much green house effect. It is mainly the carbon dioxide, which is

responsible for causing the green house effect. It is estimated that 72 percent of

the global warming is contributed by carbon dioxide whereas methane is

responsible to the extent of 18 percent for causing global warming.

(D) IMPORTANCE OF GREEN HOUSE EFFECT

The green house effect results in the heating of earth and its atmosphere

which is very necessary for our existence because without it, the whole planet

earth would be converted into an extremely cold planet, making the existence of

life very difficult. Without green house effect, earth would be frozen waste

land.

(E) GLOBAL WARMING AND ACTION PLAN

As we know the cause of global warming is the increase of carbon dioxide

concentration in the atmosphere, so in order to protect ourselves from the

harmful effects of the global warming, we should try to control the emission of

carbon dioxide in the atmosphere of the earth. Urbanization, industrialization,

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increased population, increasing vehicular use; changing life-style and decrease

in forest cover are some of the factors responsible for increased rate of emission

of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere of the earth. Today, the

atmospheric level of carbon dioxide is 26% higher than pre-industrial

concentration.

In 1992, at Rio-de-Janeiro Conference two important conventions were

signed. The first one was the convention on Climate Change and the second

one was on Biological Diversity. The Convention on Climatic Change puts an

obligation on every signatory State to take effective steps to reduce the

emission of green house gases so as to protect the earth and its atmosphere from

global warming.

In June, 1997, at the Earth Summit plus Five at New York, it was pointed

out that from 1992 to 1997 there has been increase of carbon dioxide

concentration by 2 percent in the atmosphere of the earth leading to further

global warming.

(F) THE ASIAN HAZE OR ASIAN BROWN CLOUD

In the beginning of the twenty first century, INDOEX (Indian Ocean

Experiment) scientists have identified a new threat to the world climate. A UN

study, commissioned by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP),

conducted by about 200 scientists, including Indians, have discovered a 3km

thick deep blanket of brownish layer of pollution spread over south Asia and

most of tropical Indian Ocean. To this they have named as “Asian Haze” or

Asian Brown Cloud (ABC).” This is a major environmental hazard for the

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region. This haze consists of deadly cocktail of ash, acids, sulphates, nitrates,

black carbon, and suspended particles in the air called aerosols and several

other damaging air-borne pollutants. The burning of wood and fossil fuels

causes a large part of aerosols. It can also result from natural causes like desert

sand and sea salt. It may be noted that in the rural areas the cow dung and

kerosene are used to cook the food and it results in air pollution. In the mega

cities air pollution is much larger with contribution both from burning of

biomass and fossil fuel combustion. In fact, poverty is one of the major causes

of “Asian Brown Cloud.”

Many people have criticized that why this haze should be called as “Asian

Haze” or “Asian Brown Cloud.” Because the pollution likes corruption, is a

global phenomenon. In fact, the study itself shows that sulphur dioxide

emission by North America, Europe, China and East Asia were many times

larger than those of South Asia. Man made aerosol pollutants are rampant in

Europe and the USA. “Biomass burning “ from forest fires, vegetation clearing

and fossil fuel was just as much to blame for the haze as dirty industries the

South Asian region. The developed world’s progress has been based on the

indiscriminate exploitation of the natural resources. The rest of the world is

following the same route of progress. It is not the industry alone that pollutes,

mechanized farming does the same. Some people have questioned the timing

and veracity of the report regarding the Asian haze. According to them, the

report was released in August, 2002 just before the start of Johannesburg

Summit wherein it was to be used to pressure developing nations to agree on

sharing the burden of cleaning up the earth’s environment. Whatever may be

the timing of the report, we cannot ignore the fact there is continuous

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deterioration of the environment and the whole world has to think seriously

about this growing threat.

Some of the possible harmful effects of this “Haze” are as under:

1. It can reduce the solar radiations reaching the surface of the earth because

the pollutants scatter and absorb the incoming solar radiations. This may

result in the heating of lower atmosphere and decrease in the temperature of

the land surface.

2. The reduction in the land temperature may radically change the monsoon

pattern and thus cause drought in South Asia while the rainfall may increase

over the oceans. The increase in the rainfall over the oceans may result in

the flooding of the coastal regions. It is said to have caused a reduction in

rainfall by 20-40 percent in northwest India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

3. The haze could have potential effects on the agriculture. It will reduce

India’s winter rice yield by 10 per cent. Similarly, it will also affect the

wheat production in South Asian region.

4. The haze may lead to a spurt in respiratory and other diseases due to

pollution and thus may become responsible for hundreds of thousands of

deaths a year from these diseases. Press reports emanating from London

convey a shocking data that about 24,000 premature deaths occurred in India

annually in the early nineties due to pollution and a few years later the figure

jumped to 37,000 deaths every year.

5. The haze may cause acid rain, which will not only affect the agriculture

but also contaminate water resources.

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This discovery of “Asian Haze” has sent a shock wave in the sub-continent

and the countries likely to be affected from this are India, Pakistan, Afghanistan,

Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Maldives. But the threat is not

restricted to Asian countries. This has also frightened much of Europe. The

UNEP’s executive director, who released the report at a press conference in

London in August, 2002, warned that “there are global implications not least

because a pollution parcel like this can travel half way round the globe in a week.”

But it is not yet clear as to what is the relationship of haze to global warming,

which the scientists believe is caused due to emission of greenhouse gases that trap

the earth’s heat. It is also not clear how this will affect the world-wide

concentration of ozone and other pollutants. The Asian haze only reminds man of

the dangers of mindless pursuit of growth by ransacking nature’s reserve without

replenishing them. Thus, the protection and perseverance of the environment is the

need of the hour.38

Scientists agree that even a small increase in the global temperature would

lead to significant climate and weather changes, affecting cloud cover,

precipitation, wind patterns, the frequency and severity of storms, and the duration

of seasons.

Rising temperatures would raise sea levels as well, reducing supplies of

fresh water as flooding occurs along coastlines worldwide and salt water

reaches inland.

Many of the world’s endangered species would become extinct as rising

temperatures changed their habitat.

38 See, S.K. Bal and J. Mukherjee, “Asian haze: threat to world climate”, The Tribune, at 13, November 7, 2002. See also the Editorial, “The deadly haze”, The Tribune, at 10, August 17, 2002.

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Millions of people also would be affected, especially poor people who live

in precarious locations or depend on the land for a subsistence living.

Certain vector-borne diseases carried by animals or insects, such as malaria,

would become more widespread as warmer conditions expanded their range.

(G) CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS ARE THE BIGGEST PROBLEM

Currently, carbon dioxide accounts for more than 60 percent of the enhanced

greenhouse effect caused by the increase of greenhouse gases, and the level of

carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is increasing by more than 10 percent every 20

years.

If emissions of carbon dioxide continue to grow at current rates, then the

level of the gas in the atmosphere will likely double, or possibly even triple, from

pre-industrial levels during the 21st century.

(H) CLIMATE CHANGES ARE INEVITABLE

According to the United Nations, some climate change is already inevitable

because of emissions that have occurred since the dawn of the Industrial Age.

While the Earth’s climate does not respond quickly to external changes,

many scientists believe that global warming already has significant momentum due

to 150 years of industrialization in many countries around the world. As a result,

global warming will continue to affect life on Earth for hundreds of years, even if

greenhouse gas emissions are reduced and the increase in atmospheric levels

halted.

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(I) WHAT IS BEING DONE TO REDUCE GLOBAL WARMING?

To lessen those long-term effects, many nations, communities and

individuals are taking action now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow

global warming by reducing dependence on fossil fuels, increasing the use of

renewable energy, expanding forests, and making lifestyle choices that help to

sustain the environment.

Whether they will be able to recruit enough people to join them, and whether

their combined efforts will be enough to head off the most serious effects of global

warming, are open questions that can only be answered by future developments.39

Global warming is the term used to describe a gradual increase in the

average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere and its oceans, a change that is

believed to be permanently changing the Earth’s climate. Even though it is an

ongoing debate, it is proved by the scientists that the planet is warming.40

The 29th century is experiencing a continued increase of Earth’s mean

atmospheric temperature by about 1.4 degrees F and about two thirds of it

occurring since 1980.  This is global warming is affecting the nature’s balance and

has a huge impact on life like continued heat waves, and sudden occurrence of

storms and floods. Don’t we see time to time the epidemics that are devastating to

human life and the flooding of the farmlands that puts economy in a deep hole?

39 http://environment.about.com/od/globalwarming/a/greenhouse_2.htm

40 http://thecafetechno.com/tutorials/essay/global-warming-cause-effect-and-prevention/

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Scientific evidence indicates that since 1950, the world’s climate has been

warming, primarily as a result of emissions from non -stop burning of fossil fuels

and the razing of tropical forests. Since the industrial revolution till this day, there

is a constant emission of the carbon into the atmosphere, everything we do we

leave carbon footprints. It is a man made cause of the global warming.  The global

emissions jumped 3 percent in 2011 and are expected to jump another 2.6 percent

in 2012, researchers reported.

The greenhouse effect is a process by which the greenhouse gases absorb

thermal radiation; these are then reradiated in all directions. But when some of

these radiations come back to the surface and lower atmosphere, it causes increase

in the average surface temperature leading to global warming.

(J) GLOBAL WARMING CAUSES

The causes are many of which the main culprit is the increase in the

greenhouse gases that is produced by burning fossil fuel and deforestation, thus

intensifying the greenhouse effect leading to global warming. The four main

contributors of the greenhouse effect are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane and

ozone.

Mining for coal and oil releases methane in the atmosphere. More ever the

leakage from natural gas fields and landfills are additional source of methane. 

Excessive cutting down of the trees is another factor causing global warming.

When deforestation happens the efficiency by which carbon dioxide is stored and

oxygen released by the green plants are decreased to a huge rate in turn causing

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increased concentration of carbon dioxide that leads to increased greenhouse

effect.

The nitrous oxide from fertilizers, gases used for refrigeration and industrial

processes are other factors that cannot be forgotten as the cause of Global

Warming.

Another source of methane is methane clathrate, a compound containing

large amounts of methane trapped in the crystal structure of ice. As methane

escapes from the Arctic seabed, the rate of global warming will increase

significantly.

Ice caps and glaciers reflect sunlight, bouncing high temperature sun -rays

back into space away from the Earth. When these icecaps are removed the earth

gets warmer as the dark oceans absorb much thermal radiation from the sun.

Some regions may be wet with rain and some areas will suffer drought due to

global warming. The climatic changes happen due to global warming. Seasonal

changes are unpredictable unexpected thunderstorms might result as mentioned

earlier.

The burning of wood (should be reduced to a greater extent) releases

oxidizable carbon to the atmosphere whose presence in greater amount causes the

elevation of temperature.

There is strong evidence that emissions of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were

the major cause of the recent abnormal warming.  Like carbon CFC do not trap

heat but in the presence of UV rays the chlorine gets detached from CFC, drifts up

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into the stratosphere and these unattached chlorines catalytically convert Ozone

molecules into Oxygen molecules depleting the ozone layer.

(K) CLIMATE CHANGE

One of the biggest threats to humanity & nature

The impacts of global warming:

It's nearly impossible to overstate the threat of climate change. Greenhouse

gas emissions are rising more rapidly than predicted and consequently the world is

warming more quickly. 

Global warming will have catastrophic effects such as accelerating sea level

rise, droughts, floods, storms and heat waves. These will impact some of the

world's poorest and most vulnerable people, disrupting food production, and

threatening vitally important species, habitats and ecosystems.  Despite compelling

scientific evidence, governments and businesses have responded very slowly. Even

if countries fulfill all current mitigation pledges, the world will still face between

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2.6 and 4 ºC of warming. As we work to reduce emissions, we must

simultaneously begin to adapt to the increasing impacts of climate change.

(L) THE JOHANNESBURG DECLARATION ON SUSTAINABLE

DEVELOPMENT, 2002

A. From our Origins to the Future

1. We, the representatives of the peoples of the world, assembled at the World

Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa from 2-

4 September 2002, reaffirm our commitment to sustainable development.

2. We commit ourselves to build a humane, equitable and caring global society

cognizant of the need for human dignity for all.

3. At the beginning of this Summit, the children of the world spoke to us in a

simple yet clear voice that the future belongs to them, and accordingly

challenged all of us to ensure that through our actions they will inherit a

world free of the indignity and indecency occasioned by poverty,

environmental degradation and patterns of unsustainable development.

4. As part of our response to these children, who represent our collective

future, all of us, coming from every corner of the world, informed by

different life experiences, are united and moved by a deeply-felt sense that

we urgently need to create a new and brighter world hope.

5. Accordingly, we assume a collective responsibility to advance and

strengthen the independent and mutually reinforcing pillars of sustainable

development – economic development, social development and

environmental protection – at local, national, regional and global levels.

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6. From this Continent, the Cradle of Humanity we declare, through the Plan of

Implementation and this Declaration, our responsibility to one another, to

the greater community of life and to our children.

7. Recognizing that humankind is at a crossroad, we have united in a common

resolve to make a determined effort to respond positively to the need to

produce a practical and visible plan that should bring about poverty

eradication and human development.

B. From Stockholm to Rio de Janeiro to Johannesburg

1. Thirty years ago, in Stockholm, we agreed on the urgent need to respond to

the problem of environmental deterioration. Ten years ago, at the respond to

the problem of environmental deterioration. Ten years ago, at the United

Nations Conference on Environment and Development, held in Rio de

Janeiro, we agreed that the protection of the environment, and social and

economic development are fundament al to sustainable development, and

social and economic development are fundamental to sustainable

development, based on the Rio Principles. To achieve such development,

we adopted the global programme, agenda 21, and the Rio Declaration, to

which we reaffirm our commitment. The Rio Summit was a significant

milestone that set a new agenda for sustainable development.

2. Between Rio and Johannesburg the World’s nations met in several major

conferences under the guidance of the United Nations, including the

Monterrey Conference on Finance for Development, as well as the Doha

Ministerial Conference. These conferences define for the world a

comprehensive vision for the future of humanity.

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3. At the Johannesburg Summit we achieved much in bringing together a rich

tapestry of peoples and views in a constructive search for a common path,

towards a world that respects and implements the vision of sustainable

development. Johannesburg also confirmed that significant progress has

been made towards achieving a global consensus and partnership amongst

all the people of our planet.

C. The Challenges we Face

1. We recognize that poverty eradication, changing consumption and

production patterns, and protecting and managing the natural resource base

for economic and social development are overarching objectives of, and

essential requirements for sustainable development.

2. The deep fault line that divides human society between the rich and the poor

and the ever-increasing gap between the developed and developing worlds

pose a major threat to global prosperity, security and stability.

3. The global environment continues to suffer. Loss of Biodiversity continues,

fish stocks continue to be depleted, desertification claims more and more

fertile land, the adverse effects of climate change are already evident, natural

disasters are more frequent and more devastating and developing countries

more vulnerable, and air, water and marine pollution continue to rob

millions of a decent life.

4. Globalization has added a new dimension to these challenges. The rapid

integration of markets, mobility of capital and significant increases in

investment flows around the world has opened new challenges and

opportunities for the pursuit of sustainable development. But the benefits

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and costs of globalization are unevenly distributed, with developing

countries facing special difficulties in meeting this challenge.

5. We ask the entrenchment of these global disparities and unless we act in a

manner that fundamentally changes their lives, the poor of the world may

lose confidence in their Representatives and the democratic systems to

which we remain committed, seeing their representatives as nothing more

than sounding brass or tinkling cymbals.

D. Our Commitment to Sustainable Development

1. We are determined to ensure that our rich diversity, which is our collective

strength, will be used for constructive partnership for change and for the

achievement of the common goal of sustainable development.

2. Recognizing the importance of building human solidarity, we urge the

promotion of dialogue and cooperation among the world’s civilizations and

peoples, irrespective of race, disabilities, religion, language, culture and

tradition.

3. We welcome the Johannesburg Summit focus on the indivisibility of human

dignity and are resolved through decisions on targets, timetables and

partnerships to speedily increase access to basic requirements such as clean

water, sanitation, adequate shelter, energy, health care, food security and the

protection of bio-diversity. At the same time, we will work together to assist

one another to have access to financial resources, benefit from the opening

of markets, ensure capacity building, use modern technology to bring about

development, and make sure that there is technology transfer, human

resource development, education and training to banish forever

underdevelopment.

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4. We reaffirm our pledge to place particular focus on, and give priority

attention to, the fight against the worldwide conditions that pose severe

threats to the sustainable development of our people. Among these

conditions are: Chronic hunger, malnutrition; foreign occupation; armed

conflicts; illicit drug problems; organized crime; corruption; natural

disasters; illicit arms trafficking; trafficking in persons; terrorism;

intolerance and incitement to racial; ethnic, religious and other hatreds;

xenophobia; and endemic, communicable and chronic diseases, in particular

HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis.

5. We are committed to ensure that women’s empowerment and emancipation,

and gender equality are integrated in all activities encompassed within

Agenda 21, the Millennium Development Goals and the Johannesburg Plan

of Implementation.

6. We recognize the reality that global society has the means and is endowed

with the resources to address the challenges of poverty eradication and

sustainable development confronting all humanity. Together we will take

extra steps to ensure that these available resources are used to the benefit of

humanity.

7. In this regard, to contribute to the achievement of our development goals and

targets, we urge developed countries that have not done so to make concrete

efforts towards the internationally agreed levels of Official Development

Assistance.

8. We welcome and support the emergence of stronger regional groupings and

alliances, such as the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD),

to promote regional cooperation, improved international co-operation and

promote sustainable development.

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9. We shall continue to pay special attention to the development needs of Small

Island Developing States and the Least Developed Countries.

10.We reaffirm the vital role of the indigenous peoples in sustainable

development.

11. We recognize sustainable development requires a long-term perspective and

broad-based participation in policy formulation, decision-making and

implementation at all levels. As social partners we will continue to work for

stable partnerships with all major groups respecting the independent,

important roles of each of these.

12.We agree that in pursuit of their legitimate activities the private sector, both

large and small companies, have a duty to contribute to the evolution of

equitable and sustainable communities and societies.

13.We also agree to provide assistance to increase income generating

employment opportunities, taking into account the International Labour

Organization (IL0) Declaration of Fundamental Principles and Rights at

Work.

14.We agree that there is a need for private sector corporations to enforce

corporate accountability. This should take place within a transparent and

stable regulatory environment.

15.We undertake to strengthen and improve governance at all levels, for the

effective implementation of Agenda 21, the Millennium Development Goals

and the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation.

E. Multilateralism is the Future

1. To achieve our goals of sustainable development, we need more effective,

democratic and accountable international and multinational institutions.

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2. We reaffirm our commitment to the principles and purposes of the UN

Charter and International law as well as the strengthening of

multilateralism. We support the leadership role of the United Nations as the

most universal and representative organization in the World, which is best,

placed to promote sustainable development.

3. We further commit ourselves to monitor progress at regular intervals

towards the achievement of our sustainable development goals and

objectives.

F. Making it Happen!

1. We are in agreement that this must be an inclusive process, involving all the

major groups and governments that participated in the historic Johannesburg

Summit.

2. We commit ourselves to act together, united by a common determination to

save our planet, promote human development and achieve universal

prosperity and peace.

3. We commit ourselves to the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation and to

expedite the achievement of the time-bound, socio-economic and

environmental targets contained therein.

4. From the African continent, the Cradle of Humankind, we solemnly pledge

to the peoples of the world, and the generations that will surely inherit this

earth, that we are determined to ensure that our collective hope for

sustainable development is realized.

We express our deepest gratitude to the people and the Government of South

Africa for their generous hospitality and excellent arrangements made for

the World Summit on Sustainable Development.

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(M) DEFORESTATION

Deforestation is the conversion of forested areas to non-forest land use. It

can be the result of the deliberate removal of forest cover for agriculture or urban

development, or it can be a consequence of grazing animals, wild or domesticated.

Deforestation has thus many causes. Population pressures, profits, and

internal social and political forces can also all push up the rate of forest loss.

Generally the removal or destruction of significant areas of forest cover has

resulted in a degraded environment with reduced biodiversity. Deforestation

includes not only conversion to non-forest, but also degradation that reduces forest

quality, the density and structure of the trees, the ecological services supplied, the

biomass of plants and animals, the species diversity and the genetic diversity.

Deforestation results from removal of trees without sufficient reforestation and

usually results in a significant loss of biodiversity. From 2000 to 2005, the net

forest loss was 7.3 million hectares per year, an area the size of Sierra Leone or

Panama and equivalent to 200 km 2 per day (FAO – Appendix 4). Jungle burned

for agriculture in southern Mexico. Impact on the Environment Deforestation

affects the amount of water in the soil and groundwater and the moisture in the

atmosphere. Forests influence thus climate. Forests support considerable

biodiversity, providing valuable habitat for wildlife; moreover, forests foster

medicinal conservation and the recharge of aquifers. Forests are also important

stores of organic carbon, and forests can extract carbon dioxide and pollutants from

the air, thus contributing to biosphere stability and probably relevant to the

greenhouse effect. Tropical deforestation contributes as much as 90% of the

current net release of biotic carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This change may

represent as much as 20% - 30% of the total carbon flux due to humans, i.e. the

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carbon release due to fossil fuel burning. Deforestation thus is an important

potential source of carbon. Forests are also valued for their aesthetic beauty and as

a cultural resource and tourist attraction. Global Warming is mainly a result of

Heat Emissions.

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CHAPTER – V

CONCLUSION

 The environment affects us in many different ways to include our health,

habitat, and food supply. If we choose not to protect the environment we will not

be able to sustain life for our future generations. We must make to right choices to

protect the environment from global warming.  We must take action and stop the

warming trend that is happening every day around us, by reducing greenhouse

gases and seeking alternate means for energy. The environment continues to

diminish due to global warming.  The constant polluting of our environment will

leave our world inhabitable for future generations to come.

It is extremely unfortunate to know that lawyers these days, instead of

fighting for the survival of the forests and the ecosystem are making money by

going down into real estate business and are converting agricultural lands into

commercial lands. The environmental issues we face today are a direct reflection

of mans greed to make money.  The lack of respect for the environment and how it

affects us will cause us grave harm from the effects of climate changes. 

 There can be a solution for helping the environment. The educated and

knowledgeable people should realize their responsibilities towards social

contributions and strive to protect our environment and also, it is their

responsibility to bring awareness about the hazardous consequences of destroying

the environment among the illiterates and less knowledgeable people and

especially lawyers need to play a great role to provide justice to the environment

along with the fellow human beings.  If we reach out to people who don't care

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about our environment, we could change their point of view of thing and join

hands together as one country and make the world a better place for all of us to live

in.

Advocates find a huge profit in settling the land deals or property deals

which fetch a high commission on percentage basis and make them rich within a

short span of time.  The advocates are losing interest in arguing in the court and

getting justice to the victims.  They are more attracted towards the real estate as it

doesn’t demand any intelligence or time on collecting the information or turning

the pages of law books.

 

In earlier days, people were selfless and they used to plant the saplings

which bear fruits or give shade to the mankind.  They do it even in their old age

without even thinking whether they will be benefitted by it or not.  However, they

used to do it for the benefit or use of the next generation.  Unknowingly they were

contributing towards saving the environment.  Thus, in olden days we had proper

rains.  There was no water problem.  Today people are so self-centered that they

fear what if their effort yield fruits to others.  These days’ people do not tolerate if

their neighbors’ pluck the fruits from their tree/plant which is extended its

branches in their compound.  They do not mind cutting their trees/plants when

such things happen but they do not show the same zeal in re-planting them.

Thus the modern generation is very active in destroying the nature resulting

in global warming knowingly or unknowingly.

Environment protection and its preservation is today the concern of all. The

environment is one of the clearest examples that all human activities on this earth

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are interconnected. Today, Society’s interaction with nature is so extensive that

environmental question has assumed all proportions affecting all humanity.

Environmental destruction and pollution has seriously threatened the human life,

health and livelihood. Thus there has been a thrust on the protection of

environment the world over. If the quality of life is to be assured to the present

generation and if the future generation is to be saved from the environmental

catastrophe, the nature’s gift to us in the form of flora and fauna has to be

preserved in the natural form. The proper balance of the ecosystem is the need of

hour. The only answer to tackle this problem is sustainable development.

The object of the environmental law is to preserve and protect the nature’s gifts to

men and women such as water, air, earth and atmosphere from pollution. But the

law alone cannot tackle the problem of pollution. There has to be awareness of the

problem and sustained efforts are required to tackle it.

In conclusion, if we make small changes now in the way we live, we can

avoid huge changes in the future. Scientists, governments and individuals must

work together to overcome this threat.

The effects of Global Warming are very dangerous for our existence and

survival. The sun’s scorching heat comes to earth in a direct way. Therefore, the

earth’s surface becomes seriously heated. Agriculture, forestry and fishery are

seriously being damaged. This can catastrophically reduce mankind’s ability to

grow foods, destroy wildlife. Global Warming also cause sea-water to swell up.

All species are important for maintaining ecological balance. If one is lost,

the whole natural environment changes. To prevent the dangerous effects of

Global Warming necessary steps should immediately be taken.

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People should not be allowed to cut off trees which cause deforestation.

Rather they should be advised and suggested to plant more and more trees in

accordance with their capability and convenience. Forests also control the natural

balance. People should be made aware of it. Mills, factories, brick-fields should be

set up in a very good planned way. There should be well drainage system to pass

away waste materials, wastages and poisonous chemicals.

The alarming world’s climate is very dangerous for mankind and ecological

balance. Unless Global Warming is not controlled, no men, animals will be able to

live, grow and thrive. So, we should try maintaining the ecological balance to

decrease the effects of Global Warming.

However, I had very little knowledge about Environment Pollution & Global

Warming before going in depth about it. The causes and the intensity of the effects

were not thought of very seriously. As the study progresses, many astounding

realities were unveiled. It is threatening to think what would happen in the coming

years if we continue to harm our nature for our greediness. The severity of the

consequences cannot be measured.

Though my analysis was right before taking up this subject, I truly had no

wide knowledge about it. Once I went into deep, I came to aware several things

which were beyond my imagination.

The nature has provided us hills, lakes, rivers, forests, etc. These are all

required for the well-being of man. If we destroy these for our selfishness,

naturally, nature will revolt against the mankind. No one can save him from these

consequences. Instead, man should realize and try to save earth so that he could

prevent the consequences of destruction. When he utilizes the natural resources,

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he should know he that he is responsible for saving it as well as maintain it for the

next generation.

We do not realize what government is. The government is “WE”. The

government exists because of us. If we are not there, where the government comes

from? We should realize that each one of us is responsible for saving our earth.

We need to join hands with government in order to save the environment.

The NGOs, IT Industries and other Top companies are already in action

towards reducing the global warming & saving the earth. This definitely inspires

us to contribute our bit towards saving earth in our own way. A lot of

Associations, Social Service Groups are working towards eradication of Global

Warming. If we cooperate with them, definitely we can achieve our goals.

We should focus on spreading this awareness through our education system.

Though it’s been started already, it’s not very extensive in nature. We should take

it up seriously and work towards it. This should be started from home first. We

need to avoid buying more than one or two vehicles. Start using public transport

as far as possible. Stop using Electronic Items like Refrigerators, Ovans, etc.,

which harm our Ozone Layers. We should protect our nature as we protect

ourselves. We should nurture our environment as we nurture our children. We

should think of our earth in each activity of ours. We should think twice before we

take up any action against the nature. If we protect the mother earth, she will

definitely protect us. We should not forget it.

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Some of the possible solutions I could think of in order to save our earth from

Global Warming are:

Increasing land productivity through agro forestry

Improving availability of fertilizer – cheaper price – smaller packets

Urgent need for more and better:

Transportation infrastructure: roads, waterways ports, railways,

research, education, health…

Investments in water systems: dams, large and small-scale irrigation systems,

wells and most of all, water harvesting and storage at farm level

o Provision of fuel and energy (e.g. solar powered) in rural areas

o Communications (use of IT is key, cell phones)

o Investments in agro-industries (processing of agricultural

products)

Sewage treatment to recycle waste water

Rain water harvesting

Resources management through use of technology

Preventive maintenance and judicious use of resources

Use of energy efficient lighting systems

Reduction in electricity consumption

Reduction paper consumption

Reduction in water consumption

Conversion of chemical fertilizers into organic fertilizers

Establishing a system for phasing out / reuse of thermocol

Safe disposal of e-waste

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Taking action during any abnormal situations such as spillage, fire, leakage, waste

storage, resource consumption, etc.

Stopping converting agricultural land into commercial lands.

Planting Trees as much as possible

Saving Lakes, Forests, Rivers, Hills, etc.

Reduction in using Refrigerators, Ovans, etc. which causes harm to

our Ozone Layers. The birds like sparrows have disappeared already

due to use of these electronic items.

Steps to be taken to save Ozone.

Save Wild Life.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Environmental Law by Dr. P.s. Jaswal and Dr. Nishtha Jaswal – Third

Edition-2009, Allahabad Law Agency, Law publishers, Faridabad(Haryana)

2. Environmental Law Prepared by Anil K. Nair, Advocate, High Court of

Kerala.

3. Law of Tort by S.P. Singh, LL.M. (Comell – U.S.A.), Director, Amity Law

School, Noida. And Indrajit P. Singh B.A.Hons.) Economics, (D.V.), LL.B.

(Gold Medalist), Fourth Edition – 2006

4. Law of Tort by P.S. Achuthen Pillai, Eight Edition – 1987, Reprinted 2010

5. Constitutional Law of India by Dr. Narendra Kumar – Seventh edition 2008

6. Outline of Indian legal and Constitutional History by M.P. Jain Sixth Edition

2006

7. Indian Penal Code by Prof. Surya Narayan Misra – Eighteenth Edition

(reprint) 2012.

8. Criminal Procedure by R.V. Kelkar’s –5th Edition – 2008, reprinted 2012

with supplement.