Abstract

Environmental literacy is described as “the degree to which individuals possess an objective and educated grasp of environmental concerns.” Today, it is critical to have a working knowledge of environmental concerns. This is because the human economy is involved in a broad variety of activities that are wreaking havoc on the ecosystems that support both our species and the Earth’s biological heritage. Pollution, climate change, failing fisheries, deforestation, soil degradation, species extinctions and endangerment, and other impacts are all evidence of this. Nonetheless, we do not need to be too negative. If our society takes positive action now, or in the near future, it will not be too late to avoid or fix many of these serious environmental issues that endanger the wellbeing of humans and the majority of other species. Within certain parameters, people are clairvoyant beings, and our society is capable of establishing a sustainable economy that supports both our lives and healthy environments. However, it is evident that any sustainable economy would need business models that are distinct from those that have lately been prevalent. Additionally, it will need major adjustments in the habits of many people, particularly those in India. In the end, such socioeconomic revolutions must use far less energy, materials, and other resources than many of us take for granted today. Additionally, a more respectful attitude toward the natural environment is critical. Achieving this shift will need people to have a firm grasp of environmental challenges. Restriction of access to resources will first be unsettling for a large number of individuals. Nonetheless, we think that individuals will be more receptive to lifestyle adjustments if they understand the rationale for such adjustments in terms of future generations’ livelihoods and ecological sustainability in general. With this perspective, the majority of people will favour economic and social reforms that preserve the quality of their current and future surroundings. A widespread environmental literacy would be critical if India is to successfully transition to an environmentally viable economy. This book was written in that context to assist Indian students at universities and colleges in developing an impartial and well-informed awareness of critical environmental challenges. Naturally, much work has been spent updating the contents in this data-rich textbook. This was done when new data became available, ensuring that the information is current and accurate. Additionally, the book’s language and structure have been extensively modified to increase its clarity and accessibility, with the goal of making the subject more accessible to undergraduate engineering students.

Keywords: Environmental literacy, Eco system, Pollution, Climate Change, Deforestation

References

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Citation

Ravi Kumar, B. S., Ravi Kiran, S., & Mamatha, S. (2021). Environmental Studies (1st ed., Vol. 1). Magestic Technology Solutions (P) Ltd. ISBN: 978-81-947070-8-0. DOI: https://doi.org/10.47716/MTSPL.B.5.2021.9788194707080.