Syllabus
Unit I
Environment, Natural Resources & Sustainability. Concept and components of environment. Man–environment relationship and environmental movements. Natural resources: renewable and non‑renewable. Over‑utilization of resources and conservation strategies. Sustainability concepts and sustainable development. Issues: deforestation, water scarcity, energy security, food security. Intergenerational and intragenerational equity. Role of education and public awareness.
Unit II
Ecosystems, Biodiversity & Sustainable Practices. Structure and functions of ecosystems. Types of ecosystems (forest, grassland, aquatic – conceptual). Ecosystem resilience, homeostasis, and carrying capacity. Biodiversity: meaning, values, and threats. Conservation strategies: in situ and ex situ. Protected areas and India as a mega‑diverse nation.
Unit III
Environmental Pollution, Waste & Disaster Management. Types of pollution: air, water, soil, noise, marine. Causes and impacts of pollution. Climate change, greenhouse effect, ozone depletion, acid rain. Pollution issues and case examples from India. Solid waste management and cleaner technologies. Natural and man‑made disasters and disaster management. Role of organizations and businesses in disaster risk reduction.
Unit IV
Social Issues, Legislation & Sustainable Development. Sustainable development and environmental ethics. Role of industry and business in sustainability. Environmental legislation in India: Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Role of judiciary in environmental protection. Environmental justice, refugees, rehabilitation and resettlement.