BL module 5
BL module 5
The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 is a primary piece of Indian environmental legislation enacted to
protect and improve the environment, and to prevent, control, and abate pollution. It empowers the
Central Government to take measures to address environmental issues and establish authorities to enforce
these measures. The Act also defines terms like "environment," "environmental pollutant," and
"environmental pollution".
To implement the decisions of the UN Conference on the Human Environment (Stockholm, 1972):
The Act was passed to implement decisions made at the Stockholm Conference, where global concerns
about environmental degradation were formally addressed.
Definitions:
Environment: “Environment” includes water, air and land and the inter-relationship which exists
among and between water, air and land, and human beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-
organisms and property.
Environmental pollutant: Environmental pollutant” means any solid, liquid or gaseous substance
present in such concentration as may be, or tend to be, injurious to environment.
Environmental pollutant: “Environmental pollutant” means any solid, liquid or gaseous
substance present in such concentration as may be, or tend to be, injurious to environment.
Hazardous substance: “Hazardous substance” means any substance or preparation which, by
reason of its chemical or physic-chemical properties or handling, is liable to cause harm to human
beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-organisms, property or the environment.
Occupier: “Occupier” in relation to any factory or premises, means a person who has control over
the affairs of the factory or the premises and includes, in relation to any substance, the person in
possession of the substance.
1. Air Pollution
Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful or excessive quantities of substances in the atmosphere,
such as gases, particulates, and biological molecules. These pollutants can be released from natural
sources like volcanic eruptions and forest fires, but human activities such as burning fossil fuels,
vehicular emissions, and industrial discharge are the major contributors. Common air pollutants include
carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Air
pollution poses severe health risks including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and can also
lead to environmental issues like acid rain, smog formation, and the depletion of the ozone layer. It also
contributes to global warming due to increased levels of greenhouse gases.
2. Water Pollution
Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies like rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater by
harmful substances. This pollution can result from industrial waste discharge, sewage, agricultural runoff
(pesticides and fertilizers), oil spills, and plastic debris. Water pollution affects both aquatic ecosystems
and human health. It can lead to the death of marine life, disruption of food chains, and diseases such as
cholera and dysentery in humans. Excess nutrients from agricultural runoff can cause eutrophication,
where algal blooms reduce oxygen levels, killing aquatic organisms. Clean water is essential for life, and
its contamination poses a major threat to environmental sustainability and public health.
Soil pollution occurs when the top layer of soil is contaminated by hazardous chemicals or waste,
reducing its quality and fertility. Common sources include the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and
pesticides, improper disposal of industrial and household waste, oil spills, and deforestation. Soil
pollution affects agricultural productivity, contaminates food crops, and can harm organisms living in the
soil. It also leads to groundwater contamination when toxic substances seep into the water table. Long-
term soil degradation can result in desertification, making land unusable for farming or habitation, and
posing risks to food security.
4. Noise Pollution
Noise pollution is the presence of excessive or disturbing sounds in the environment that negatively affect
human and animal health. Common sources include traffic, construction activities, industrial machinery,
loudspeakers, and airports. Unlike other forms of pollution, noise pollution does not accumulate in the
environment but its effects are immediate and harmful. It can lead to hearing loss, high blood pressure,
sleep disturbances, stress, and reduced productivity. In animals, it can interfere with communication,
mating calls, and navigation, especially in birds and marine life like dolphins and whales.
5. Thermal Pollution
Thermal pollution refers to the rise in the temperature of water bodies caused by human activities,
particularly the discharge of heated water from industrial plants and power stations. This sudden change
in temperature affects aquatic ecosystems by decreasing dissolved oxygen levels, making it hard for
marine organisms to survive. Many species are sensitive to temperature changes, and thermal pollution
can lead to large-scale fish kills, migration disturbances, and loss of biodiversity. It also disrupts the
natural balance of aquatic ecosystems and can encourage the growth of invasive species or harmful algae.
6. Radioactive Pollution
Radioactive pollution is caused by the presence of radioactive substances in the environment, which emit
harmful radiation. This type of pollution is often a result of nuclear power plant accidents, improper
disposal of radioactive waste, mining activities, and testing of nuclear weapons. Radioactive pollutants
can remain active in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years, making them extremely
dangerous. Exposure to radiation can cause severe health issues such as cancer, genetic mutations, organ
damage, and even death. It also affects wildlife and can render large areas of land uninhabitable for long
periods.
7. Light Pollution
Light pollution is the excessive or misdirected artificial light that brightens the night sky and disrupts
natural darkness. It is mainly caused by over-illumination in urban areas, streetlights, advertising boards,
and industrial sites. While it may seem harmless, light pollution has significant environmental
consequences. It affects ecosystems by interfering with the natural day-night cycle of animals,
particularly nocturnal species. For humans, it can cause sleep disorders, fatigue, and increased stress
levels. Additionally, light pollution obscures our view of the stars, affecting astronomical observations.
8. Plastic Pollution
Plastic pollution refers to the accumulation of plastic materials in the environment, particularly in oceans
and soil. It is mainly caused by the widespread use and improper disposal of single-use plastics such as
bags, bottles, packaging, and micro plastics found in personal care products. Plastic is non-biodegradable
and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. Marine animals often mistake plastic for food,
leading to injury or death. Plastic pollution also enters the food chain in the form of micro plastics,
affecting human health. On land, it clogs drainage systems and contaminates soil and groundwater.
Powers of Central Government to Protect Environment in India:
The Environment Protection Act, 1986 grants the Central Government broad powers to take action for
the protection and improvement of the environment. These powers enable the government to enforce
laws, set standards, and regulate activities that might harm the environment.
Framing Regulations:
The government has the authority to frame rules and regulations to ensure the environment is
protected. These include rules for preventing and controlling pollution, handling chemicals, and
managing waste.
Consultation with Experts:
It may consult environmental experts, scientists, and other stakeholders before implementing such
rules, ensuring they are scientifically sound and effective.
Inspection of Premises:
The Central Government can inspect factories, industries, and other premises to ensure they
comply with environmental laws and standards. This includes checking pollution control devices,
waste disposal practices, and emissions.
Monitoring Pollution Levels:
It has the authority to monitor pollution levels in air, water, and land, and can take corrective
action if the levels exceed permissible limits.
Import Control:
The Central Government can regulate and control the import of hazardous chemicals and
substances to ensure that toxic and harmful materials do not enter the country.