How does Environmental Protection Act plays a vital role in environmental governance system in India

Critically analyze the role of Environmental Protection Act 1986 in promoting environmental conservation and safeguarding biodiversity in India.
The Environmental Protection Act 1986 is a key legislation governing the environmental governance system in India. Its role in promoting environmental conservation and safeguarding biodiversity in India can be analyzed in the following points:
  • The Act provides a legal framework for the prevention, control, and abatement of environmental pollution.
  • It sets standards for emissions and discharges of pollutants and defines penalties for violations.
  • The Act provides for the establishment of authorities, such as the Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Boards, to monitor and enforce the provisions of the Act.
  • It empowers citizens to file complaints and take legal action against violations of environmental laws.
  • The Act provides for the assessment of the environmental impact of development projects and requires that projects be approved only if they are found to be environmentally sustainable.
  • The Act has been instrumental in promoting environmental awareness and creating a culture of environmental responsibility among individuals and businesses in India.
  • Through its provisions, the Act has helped promote the conservation of India's rich biodiversity, including endangered species and ecosystems.
  • However, the Act has also faced challenges such as weak enforcement and insufficient penalties, resulting in continued environmental degradation.
Overall, the Environmental Protection Act 1986 has played a crucial role in promoting environmental conservation and safeguarding biodiversity in India, but there remains a need for stronger enforcement and penalties to ensure its effectiveness.
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