Chapter 6: Environment and Natural Resources

Summary (English)

1. Importance of Environment in World Politics
– Environment became a global issue after the 1960s due to pollution, deforestation, and overuse of resources.
– Environmental issues are transnational, crossing borders and affecting all countries.
– They are linked with development, equity, and security.

2. Major Environmental Concerns
– Global Warming & Climate Change: Greenhouse gases causing higher temperatures, melting glaciers, sea-level rise.
– Ozone Depletion: CFCs damaging ozone layer, increasing UV risks.
– Deforestation & Biodiversity Loss: Forest destruction reduces species diversity and carbon absorption.
– Pollution & Waste: Industrialisation and urbanisation increase air, water, and land pollution.
– Depletion of Natural Resources: Over-extraction of water, oil, and minerals; unsustainable consumption.

3. Environmental Movements
– Grassroots movements in developing countries link environment with survival and justice.
  – Chipko Movement (India): Villagers protected forests.
  – Narmada Bachao Andolan: Protest against dam displacement.
– Highlight sustainability and justice for local communities.

4. Global Environmental Governance
– Environment issues require global cooperation.
– Stockholm Conference (1972): First UN environment meeting.
– Rio Earth Summit (1992): Agenda 21 and sustainable development.
– Kyoto Protocol (1997): Framework to cut greenhouse gases.
– Paris Agreement (2015): Pact to limit warming below 2°C.
– UNEP coordinates global environmental efforts.

5. Common but Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR)
– Recognises that developed nations contributed more historically.
– Developing countries need economic growth.
– Hence, responsibilities are common but differentiated.

6. India’s Environmental Concerns and Policies
– India faces pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss, water scarcity.
– Supports sustainable development—balancing growth and protection.
– Active in Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement.
– Advocates equity in responsibility and promotes solar and renewable energy.

7. Natural Resources and Global Politics
– Natural resources unevenly distributed, leading to conflict and competition.
– Oil politics and OPEC’s influence in West Asia.
– Water sharing disputes and rising renewable energy importance.
– Control over resources is a major factor in world politics.

8. Key Concepts
– Sustainable Development: Meeting present needs without harming future generations.
– Ecological Footprint: Human demand on Earth’s ecosystems.
– Energy Security: Reliable and affordable energy supply.

9. Conclusion
– Environmental issues are central to world politics.
– Local struggles connect with global governance.
– Solutions require international cooperation, equity, and sustainable practices.