In this blogpost, Haridya Iyenger, Student, Jindal Global Law School, Haryana, writes about laws on the environment in India and suggests steps which can be taken by individuals to combat climate change.
In recent years, the biggest problems faced by human beings is the rapidly changing climate. It is one of the biggest environmental, social and economic threats facing the planet. This paper seeks to analyse the existing laws and suggests a day to day implementations to reduce the change in climate.
Important Climate Change Laws in India
The Environmental Protection Act of 1986 is the most important legislation with respect to climate changes in India. The Act confers power on the Central and State government for the purpose of – First, protecting and improving the quality of the environment. Second, preventing and abating environmental pollution.
The Air Prevention and Control of Pollution Act of 1981 is an innovative legislation which lets the State regulate the standard for emission of air pollutants. The Act empowers the State to inspect any factory and check any control equipment and manufacturing process. It further allows the State to take necessary steps for the control of air pollution. No industry can operate without meeting the requirements mentioned in this act.
The National Green Tribunal Act of 2010 was enacted to govern the National Green Tribunal. These Tribunals were established to ensure the fast and effective disposal of cases which relate to the protection of the environment. These tribunals also have jurisdiction over cases where a substantial question relating to the environment arises.
To know more about the scope of constitutional provisions for environmental protection in India in brief, please refer to the video below:
The Energy Conservation Act of 2001 was enacted to provide a legal framework for the efficient use of energy. It does this by ensuring that only energy efficient equipment is provided to consumers and by providing a comprehensive framework for power development.
The Forest Conservation Act of 1980 was enacted to conserve and protect the existing forests in India. After the enactment of this act all forests became the reserved property of the government. The act also provides a compensatory measure to be taken when any reserved forest is directed to non- forest purposes.
The Water Prevention and Control of Pollution Act of 1977 was enacted to prevent pollution of water through agricultural, industrial and household waste. The act also regulates the cess paid on consumption of water.
The Wildlife Protection Act of 2002 was enacted to protect wildlife within the borders of India. The act has three main objectives – First, to establish a uniform legislation for wildlife. Second, to establish a network of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Third, to regulate the illicit trade of wildlife and its products.
The Biological Diversity Act of 2002 was enacted for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in the country. This act helps bring India one step closer to the objective of realising equitable sharing of its biodiversity.
Steps that can be taken by Individuals to Combat Climate Change
While the country has a good framework to  fight against climate change, individuals need to actively participate in helping make a big difference. Our day – to – day activities play a major role in slowing down climate change. By following the steps below, we can help make a big difference in the world.
1)Â Â Â Energy Efficiency
Reports indicate that energy sector emits almost 40% of the total carbon emission in India[1]. Small steps such as changing light bulbs to LED or fluorescent bulbs, hand drying clothes instead of using the dryer and buying appliances with energy STAR make big changes.
2)Â Â Â Improving transportation method
Reports indicate that the transport sector emits over 142.04 million tons of carbon dioxide a year[2]. So it is important to walk, cycle or use public transport whenever possible. When this is not possible, try carpooling to the location.
Another way to reduce emission in this sector is by switching to eco-friendly cars.
3) Â Â Control on Food we eat
While meat is tasty, a huge portion of the greenhouse gases is emitted from meat and dairy production. It is also important to eat organic food rather than processed items.
4)Â Â Â Recycle
A huge step in reducing carbon emission is by recycling plastics, paper, metal and glass. This is practiced by most developed foreign countries. However, it is yet to pick up in India.
5)Â Â Â Switch to Renewable Power
Many appliances can be run by renewable sources of energy rather than electricity. This not only helps reduce carbon emission but, also helps reduce the electricity bill.
Conclusion
To reduce the effects of climate change, it is not only important to stay informed but, also actively participate.
[1] http://www.moef.nic.in/downloads/public-information/Report_INCCA.pdf
[2] http://www.moef.nic.in/downloads/public-information/Report_INCCA.pdf
