INTRODUCTION:
In recent years, the urgency to address climate change has led to a significant transformation in the field of environmental law in India. As the nation faces the escalating impacts of climate change, there is a growing recognition of the need to adapt legal frameworks to meet new realities.
Mitigating Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
India, as one of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, has taken substantial steps to mitigate its carbon footprint. Environmental law in India is increasingly focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions through various measures. These include the development of renewable energy policies, the establishment of emission reduction targets, and the implementation of market-based mechanisms such as carbon pricing. Additionally, laws are being revised to promote energy efficiency, sustainable transportation systems, and the adoption of cleaner technologies across industries.
Protecting Ecosystems and Biodiversity:
India boasts diverse ecosystems and a rich biodiversity, making it imperative to safeguard these natural resources in the face of climate change. Environmental law plays a vital role in protecting ecosystems and biodiversity by regulating land use, conserving forests, safeguarding coastal areas, and preserving wildlife habitats. Legal frameworks are being adapted to strengthen conservation measures, prevent deforestation, mitigate habitat fragmentation, and address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable species. Additionally, laws are being enacted to promote sustainable agriculture and reduce the use of harmful chemicals that can degrade ecosystems.
Climate Adaptation and Resilience:
With climate change impacts becoming more evident, environmental law in India is increasingly focused on climate adaptation and building resilience. Legal frameworks are being developed to integrate climate change considerations into various sectors such as urban planning, infrastructure development, water resource management, and disaster preparedness. These efforts involve assessing climate risks, developing adaptive strategies, enhancing early warning systems, and promoting nature-based solutions. By incorporating climate adaptation into legal frameworks, India aims to minimize vulnerability, protect communities, and ensure the resilience of critical infrastructure in the face of climate-related hazards.
Promoting Corporate Responsibility and Accountability:
Recognizing the significant role played by corporations in contributing to climate change, environmental law in India is placing increased emphasis on corporate responsibility and accountability. Laws and regulations are being enacted to incentivize sustainable practices and encourage businesses to adopt climate-friendly approaches. This includes promoting energy efficiency, waste reduction, and responsible resource management. Furthermore, environmental impact assessment laws are being strengthened to ensure that businesses consider climate change impacts in their operations. Legal mechanisms are also being employed to hold polluters accountable through strict penalties and liability provisions.
LAWS INVOLVED:
The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: This comprehensive legislation serves as the foundation for environmental protection in India. It empowers the central government to take measures for the conservation and improvement of the environment, including the prevention and control of pollution. The Act provides the legal framework for regulating activities that may have an adverse impact on the environment, such as industrial pollution, waste management, and environmental clearances.
The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established under this Act as a specialized forum for the effective and expeditious disposal of environmental cases. The NGT has jurisdiction over matters related to environmental laws, including issues concerning air and water pollution, biodiversity conservation, climate change, and the enforcement of environmental impact assessments.
The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980: This legislation aims to conserve and protect forests and biodiversity in India. It regulates activities such as diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes, including infrastructure development projects. The Act requires prior approval from the central government for such diversions and mandates compensatory afforestation to mitigate the loss of forest cover.
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: This law provides for the protection and conservation of wildlife and their habitats in India. It prohibits hunting, poaching, trade in wildlife, and the destruction of habitats. The Act also establishes protected areas, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries to safeguard critical ecosystems and species.
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: This legislation aims to prevent, control, and abate air pollution. It provides for the establishment of state and central pollution control boards responsible for monitoring and regulating air pollution sources, including industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and indoor air quality.
The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974: This law addresses issues related to water pollution and the protection of water resources. It establishes pollution control boards at the state and central levels to monitor and regulate water pollution sources, such as industrial effluents, sewage, and agricultural runoff.
The Renewable Energy Act, 2022: This recently enacted legislation focuses on promoting renewable energy sources and facilitating their integration into the grid. It provides for the development of renewable energy projects, feed-in tariffs, power purchase agreements, and other incentives to accelerate the adoption of clean energy in India.
CASE LAWS:
M.C. Mehta v. Union of India, AIR 1987 SC 1086:
This landmark case dealt with the issue of air and water pollution in Delhi. The Supreme Court issued several directives to address the problem, including the conversion of public transport vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and the relocation of polluting industries outside the city.
Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India, AIR 1996 SC 2715:
In this case, the Supreme Court emphasized the importance of the precautionary principle in environmental matters. The court held that industries must take preventive measures to avoid environmental degradation and that the polluter must pay for the costs of pollution and remediation.
Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action v. Union of India, AIR 1996 SC 1446:
This case dealt with the issue of hazardous waste management and the implementation of the Basel Convention in India. The Supreme Court directed the government to take effective measures to regulate the import, handling, and disposal of hazardous wastes, ensuring compliance with international agreements.
Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar, AIR 1991 SC 420:
In this case, the Supreme Court upheld the fundamental right to a clean environment as part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. The court held that it is the duty of the state and its agencies to ensure a clean environment for the citizens.
Samatha v. State of Andhra Pradesh, AIR 1997 SC 3297:
This case focused on the rights of tribal communities over land and natural resources. The Supreme Court ruled that tribal communities have a right to control and manage their resources and that mining activities cannot be undertaken without their consent.
Goa Foundation v. Union of India, (2014) 6 SCC 590:
In this case, the Supreme Court imposed a temporary ban on mining activities in Goa due to violations of environmental laws. The court ordered the establishment of a permanent fund for the restoration of the environment and directed the government to ensure sustainable mining practices.
These case laws have had significant implications for environmental protection and climate change mitigation in India. They have provided important legal precedents and guidelines for environmental management and have played a crucial role in shaping the country’s environmental jurisprudence.
CONCLUSION:
As India confronts the challenges posed by climate change, the evolution of environmental law is crucial to effectively address the new realities. By focusing on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, protecting ecosystems and biodiversity, promoting climate adaptation, and enforcing corporate responsibility, India is taking important strides towards a sustainable future. However, continued efforts are necessary to strengthen and enforce environmental laws effectively. The adaptation of legal frameworks is essential to safeguard the environment, ensure the well-being of current and future generations, and build a resilient nation capable of addressing the impacts of climate change.
REFERENCES:
https://indiankanoon.org/doc/1486949/
https://indiankanoon.org/doc/1818014/
https://indiankanoon.org/doc/1934103/
https://indiankanoon.org/doc/1646284/
https://indiankanoon.org/doc/1969682/
https://indiankanoon.org/doc/81576067/
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ARTICLE REVIEWED BY VETHIKA D PORWAL, BMS COLLEGE OF LAW
