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21 views3 pages

Unit 1 Topic 1

Uploaded by

hanishi shah
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Environmental studies is a field dedicated to exploring matters pertaining to the environment.

It can be
characterised as a branch of study that is primarily concerned with environmental issues.

This multidisciplinary discipline, known as environmental studies, is centered on the examination of


human interactions with the environment, with the ultimate goal of addressing intricate problems. It
draws upon principles from the physical sciences, economics and social sciences to confront
contemporary environmental challenges. By adopting a systematic approach, it endeavours to identify
solutions to environmental dilemmas that can benefit both society and the planet.

Environmental studies encompass a comprehensive range of factors that influence organisms and their
surroundings. This practical science strives to discover viable strategies for ensuring the sustainability of
human civilisation while operating within the constraints of the Earth’s finite resources.

Its various components span the fields of physics, chemistry, biology, geology, engineering, health,
sociology, statistics, economics, computer science and philosophy.

Scope of Environmental Studies

The field of environmental studies encompasses a wide range of scopes, which are not only important for
children but also for individuals of all ages. These scopes can be summarised as follows:

Resource Awareness
Environmental studies foster awareness about both renewable and nonrenewable resources in a particular
region. This involves assessing the available resources, their utilisation patterns and the need to maintain
a balance for future generations.

Ecological Understanding
It imparts knowledge about ecological systems and the cause-and-effect relationships within them.

Biodiversity Awareness
Environmental studies provide essential information about the richness of biodiversity and the potential
threats to plant, animal and microbial species in the environment.

Disaster Preparedness
This field helps individuals understand the causes and consequences of natural and human-induced
disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, landslides, cyclones and various types of pollution. It also explores
measures to minimise their effects.

Decision-Making
Environmental studies equip individuals with the ability to evaluate alternative responses to
environmental issues before deciding on a course of action.

Environmental Literacy
It enables individuals to become environmentally literate citizens by providing knowledge of
environmental laws, rights, rules and regulations. This knowledge empowers them to make informed
judgments and decisions for the protection and improvement of the Earth.
Social Issues
Environmental studies shed light on societal problems like overpopulation, public health and hygiene. It
also emphasises the role of arts, science and technology in addressing these challenges.

Eco-Friendly Technologies
The field identifies and promotes the development of appropriate, indigenous and eco-friendly skills and
technologies to address various environmental issues.

Sustainable Resource Use


It educates citizens about the importance of sustainable resource utilisation, emphasising that these
resources are inherited from our ancestors and must be passed on to future generations without
compromising their quality.

Practical Application
Environmental studies bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application,
demonstrating the multiple uses and benefits of a well-managed environment.

Importance of Environmental Studies

Environmental studies raise awareness about the critical importance of safeguarding and conserving our
planet, as well as the detrimental effects of pollution on the environment. Challenges stemming from
population growth, industrialisation and other factors have made the task of survival increasingly
difficult.

Numerous environmental issues have grown in scale, progressively complicating the global system and
endangering humanity’s existence on Earth. The significance of environmental studies can be attributed
to the following reasons:

Global Nature of Environmental Issues


It is widely acknowledged that environmental problems, such as global warming, ozone depletion, acid
rain, marine pollution and biodiversity loss, transcend national boundaries. Consequently, addressing
these issues requires international collaboration and concerted efforts.

Development and Its Environmental Impact


The development brings about urbanisation, industrial expansion, advanced telecommunications and
transportation systems, high-tech agriculture and housing, among other advancements. However, it has
often come at the cost of environmental degradation.

Some developed regions have shifted polluting industries to developing nations, contributing to
environmental challenges. The environmental consequences of development are not limited to specific
regions but affect the entire world.

Escalating Pollution Levels


The world’s population is on the rise and India, for instance, is home to a significant portion of the global
population. This puts immense pressure on natural resources, including land. Soil health problems, such
as nutrient deficiencies, soil salinity and degradation, have been recognised by agricultural experts.
The Need for Alternative Solutions
Particularly in developing countries, there is a pressing need to chart alternative pathways
towards sustainable development. This involves setting goals for development that are environmentally
responsible and sustainable. Such a goal should be universal, transcending the division between the
developing and over-consumptive developed world.

Preserving Humanity
It is of utmost importance to prevent the potential extinction of humanity due to activities that harm the
environment in the name of development. Striking a balance between development and environmental
protection is essential.

Wise Development Planning


Survival and sustenance rely on the availability of resources. Therefore, any development plan should be
ecologically sound and synchronised with the natural cycles of the environment. Planning should
prioritise environmental sustainability alongside economic development.

Conclusion

Environmental studies play a crucial role in fostering awareness, understanding and responsible action
towards environmental and societal challenges, making it relevant and essential for people of all ages.

Environmental studies serve as a vital tool for understanding the urgency of protecting our planet and
addressing the complex challenges that threaten our existence. By recognizing the global nature of
environmental issues and promoting wise and sustainable development, we can work towards a shared
goal of preserving the Earth’s environment for the well-being of all its inhabitants.

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