In earlier chapters, the focus has been largely on the core economic issues facing the Indian economy. While there is no denying that economic development is critical, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the growth so far has exacted a high toll on environmental quality. As India embraces globalisation and its promise of even faster economic growth, it becomes imperative to consider the long-term environmental consequences and to chart a course towards sustainable development. This chapter aims to shed light on these aspects, delineating the role of the environment, examining India’s current environmental state, and outlining actionable steps towards sustainability.

The term ‘environment’ is comprehensive, encompassing the sum total of our planetary inheritance and all available resources. This includes both biotic and abiotic elements. While biotic elements consist of all living entities like plants, animals, birds, forests, and fisheries, abiotic elements include non-living components like air, water, land, rocks, and sunlight.

The study of the environment is essentially an exploration of the complex interrelationships between these biotic and abiotic factors. The relationship is synergistic; what happens in one sphere often has a ripple effect across the others.

Four Vital Functions Of The Environment

1.Resource Supply: The environment provides renewable and non-renewable resources. The over-extraction of these, particularly non-renewable ones like fossil fuels, can lead to scarcity and environmental degradation.

2.Waste Assimilation: The environment has the capacity to absorb waste products from human activities, up to a certain limit. Beyond this, waste accumulation can harm ecosystems and biodiversity.

3.Life Sustenance: The environment sustains life by maintaining biodiversity and providing essential conditions like clean air and water. When we disturb these conditions, we threaten life on Earth.