Perspectives in Environmental Studies

Book excerpt: Environmental Studies pertain to a systematic analysis of the natural and man-made world encompassing various scientific, economic, social and ethical aspects. Human impacts leading to large scale degradation of the environment have aroused global concern on environmental issues in the recent years. The apex court has hence, issued directive to impart environmental literacy to all. In this book the fundamental concepts of environmental studies have been introduced and analysed in a simple manner strictly as per the module syllabus designed by the U.G.C. for undergradute courses in science, humanities, engineering, medicine, pharmacy, commerce, management and law. Besides the undergraduate students of all disciplines the book will also be useful for those appearing in various competitive exams since environmental issues now find a focus in most of such examinations. The contents of the book will be of interest to all educationists, planners and policy makers. Key features of the book include a simple and holistic approach with illustrations, tables and specific case studies mainly in the Indian context. The basic terminologies have been defined in the text while introducing the topics and some useful terms mentioned in the text have been explained in the glossary for an easy grasp by students of all disciplines.