Environmental Governance

• Environmental Governance refers to the system of laws, policies, institutions, and processes through which governments, communities, and other stakeholders manage, protect, and sustainably use natural resources such as air, water, forests, land, and biodiversity.
• It focuses on decision-making, implementation, and accountability in environmental protection.

Policy & Laws under Environmental Governance 

1. Environmental Protection Act, 1986 (EPA)
The Environmental Protection Act is India’s umbrella environmental law. It empowers the central government to set environmental standards, regulate industrial activities, control pollution, and take emergency measures to protect the environment. Important rules such as the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) are framed under this Act.

2. Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
This Act aims to prevent diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes. Any use of forest land for mining, industry, or infrastructure requires prior approval of the central government. It plays a crucial role in conserving forests and maintaining ecological balance.

3. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
The Wildlife Protection Act focuses on the protection of wild animals, birds, plants, and their habitats. It provides for the creation of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Tiger Reserves and prohibits hunting and illegal wildlife trade.

4. Climate Policies
India’s climate framework includes the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs), and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. These policies aim to mitigate climate change, promote adaptation, and ensure sustainable development.