Definition of Appropriate Technology The concept of appropriate technology was popularized by economist E.F. Schumacher in his influential book “Small is Beautiful: A Study of Economics as if People Mattered” (1973). It refers to technology that is suitable to the environmental, cultural, social, and economic context of the people using it. It emphasizes local needs,…
Month: May 2025
Concept of Carrying Capacity and Ecological Footprint
Carrying Capacity: Meaning and Significance Carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size of a species that an environment can sustain indefinitely, given the availability of food, habitat, water, and other necessary resources. In the context of human societies, it is the ability of Earth to support human life without degrading natural resources and ecosystems….
Sustainable Development and Its Objectives
Definition of Sustainable Development Sustainable development is a holistic approach to growth that aims to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The most widely accepted definition was provided in the 1987 report of the World Commission on Environment and Development (commonly known…
Why Should the Ecosystem Be Conserved? Explain.
Ecosystems—comprising living organisms and their physical environments—are the foundation of all life on Earth. Their conservation is essential for ecological balance, biodiversity preservation, and sustaining human life. 1. Provision of Essential Services Ecosystems provide crucial services such as clean air and water, soil fertility, pollination of crops, climate regulation, and waste decomposition. Forests, for instance,…
What is ADB? State Any Four of Its Goals.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank established in 1966 with its headquarters in Manila, Philippines. Its primary objective is to promote social and economic development in Asia and the Pacific through loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments. ADB functions as a financial institution dedicated to reducing poverty and fostering sustainable…
Role of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in Environmental Protection in India
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has emerged as a powerful tool in the Indian judicial system to promote environmental justice and sustainability. Introduced in the late 1970s and early 1980s, PIL allows any public-spirited individual or organization to approach the courts on behalf of marginalized communities or public causes. In environmental matters, PILs have ensured that…
Two Factors of Inequality Between Developed and Developing Countries
The disparity between developed and developing countries remains a pressing issue in global development discourse. These inequalities manifest in economic, technological, environmental, and human development indicators. Two primary factors contributing to this imbalance are: 1. Economic Disparity One of the fundamental factors of inequality lies in the stark differences in economic development. Developed nations, such…
Discuss the strategies adopted for achieving sustainable development in mountain ecosystems. Give suitable examples.
Strategies for Achieving Sustainable Development in Mountain Ecosystems Mountain ecosystems are highly diverse, fragile, and critical for the sustenance of both local and downstream populations. They provide essential resources such as water, biodiversity, medicinal plants, and minerals. However, these regions are also vulnerable to climate change, deforestation, unsustainable agriculture, and socio-economic marginalization. Sustainable development in…
Describe the Methods and Tools for Stakeholder Participation
Stakeholder participation can take many forms—ranging from information sharing to active collaboration and empowerment. The appropriate method depends on the project stage, socio-political context, and available resources. 1. Public Consultations and Hearings These are formal meetings where citizens are informed about a policy or project and given the opportunity to comment. In India, Environmental Impact…
What is the Importance of Stakeholder Participation in Sustainable Development?
Definition of Stakeholders A stakeholder is any individual, group, or organization that has an interest in or is affected by the outcomes of a decision, policy, or project. In the context of sustainable development, stakeholders include: Importance of Stakeholder Participation: Stakeholder participation is the process of involving these diverse groups in planning, decision-making, and implementation…
What are the Key Indicators of Sustainable Development?
Definition of Indicators: Indicators are quantifiable variables used to assess, compare, and track the progress of sustainable development. They provide evidence-based data to inform policy decisions, monitor outcomes, and promote accountability. The United Nations Framework: Under the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are broken down into 169 targets and…
What is Meant by Sustainable Development?
Definition and Origin: Sustainable development is a multifaceted concept that refers to a model of progress which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This widely accepted definition comes from the Brundtland Report (1987) titled Our Common Future, issued by the World Commission on…