UNIT:5

ROLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

IN PROTECTING ENVIRONMENT

CVAC (SEMESTER 2)
ENVS 02: ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
VIDYASAGAR COLLEGE
 Environmental Education

Definition:
Environmental education is a process that allows individuals
to explore environmental issues, engage in problem solving,
and take action to improve the environment.
According to UNESCO, “Environmental education is a way
of implementing the goals of environmental protection.
It is not a separate branch of science but lifelong
interdisciplinary field of study.” It means education
towards protection and enhancement of the environment
and education as an instrument of development for
improving the quality of life of human communities

Role of Environmental education in

Protecting environment:
Environmental education plays a crucial role in protecting
the environment by fostering awareness, knowledge, skills,
attitudes, and behaviour necessary for individuals and
communities to make informed decisions and take
responsible actions.
 Objectives of Environmental Education
• 1. Raise Awareness: Environmental education seeks to raise awareness about environmental issues, such as climate
change, deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. It aims to ensure that individuals understand the
interconnectedness between human activities and the environment and recognize the impacts of their actions.

• 2. Promote Knowledge and Understanding: Environmental education aims to provide individuals with a sound
understanding of ecological principles, environmental systems, and the importance of biodiversity. It encourages the
acquisition of scientific knowledge related to environmental issues and fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• 3. Encourage Pro-environmental Attitudes and Values: Environmental education aims to develop positive attitudes and
values towards the environment, such as appreciation, respect, empathy, and stewardship. It seeks to cultivate a sense of
responsibility and commitment to sustainable practices and ethical decision-making.

• 4. Foster Environmental Skills and Action: Environmental education aims to equip individuals with the necessary skills
to address environmental challenges effectively. This includes skills related to sustainable resource management,
conservation practices, waste reduction, renewable energy, and environmental advocacy. It encourages individuals to take
action at personal, community, and societal levels to contribute to environmental sustainability.

• 5. Promote Sustainable Lifestyles: Environmental education aims to promote sustainable lifestyles by encouraging
individuals to make environmentally conscious choices in their daily lives. It focuses on areas such as energy
conservation, waste reduction, sustainable transportation, responsible consumption, and the adoption of eco-friendly
practices
 Life-long Learning (LLL) Procedure

LLL has become an important concept in the arena of international and national education policy. The concept implies that an
individual’s life course can no longer be divided into a period of preparation followed by a period of action, rather that learning
extends across the whole lifespan in different life phases.

The concept also implies that learning takes place not only in formal schooling and training settings but also in diverse
learning spaces, and that learning can be provided through a variety of means and pathways. This view affects individual
approaches to learning and has implications for the development and implementation of education policies

Today, the view that learning is a lifelong and life wide process – and that all education should follow this principle – is widely
acknowledged by education planners and policy-makers
 Essential Elements of LLL
There are five elements that support a comprehensive understanding of the UNESCO definition of Life Long Learning .

1. All age groups: Lifelong learning is a process that starts at birth and extends across the whole lifespan. It provides people of all
ages and origins (with learning opportunities and activities, responding to their specific needs in different life and professional
stages.
2. All levels of education. Lifelong learning is about linking all levels and types of
education, building adaptable pathways between them. This includes early childhood
care and education (ECCE), primary and secondary school education, higher education,
adult and non-formal education, and technical and vocational education and training
(TVET).

3. All learning modalities. Lifelong learning recognizes all modalities of learning:

formal, non-formal and informal

4. All learning spheres and spaces. Schools are just one part of a wide learning
universe, a space that also includes families, communities, workplaces, libraries,
museums and other online and distance learning platforms. To promote lifelong
learning is to build bridges between the formal education sector and non-formal and
informal learning environments in order to create new opportunities for very diverse
learning needs.

5. A variety of purposes. Lifelong learning is both people-centred and human rights-

based. Its purpose is to provide people with opportunities to develop their capabilities
and reach their potential throughout life, regardless of their starting points; to
acknowledge a wide range of learning needs and demands; and to contribute to the
development of an advanced economy and inclusive society. Providing equitable and
inclusive lifelong learning opportunities means responding to the needs of diverse
learners.
Lifelong Learning in Environmental Education
Lifelong learning in environmental education plays a crucial role in protecting the environment through the
following ways:
• Continuous Awareness and Knowledge: It ensures individuals stay informed about current environmental
issues, scientific advancements, and sustainable practices.
• Behavioural Change: Continuous education promotes eco-friendly behaviours and habits, such as recycling,
energy conservation, and sustainable consumption.
• Informed Decision Making: Educated individuals can make better choices that minimize their environmental
impact, from personal lifestyle decisions to influencing policies.
• Empowerment: Lifelong learning empowers people to take action in their communities, advocate for
environmental policies, and participate in environmental conservation projects.
• Adaptation to Changes: As environmental conditions and challenges evolve, ongoing education helps people
adapt to new circumstances and implement innovative solutions.
• Intergenerational Knowledge Transfer: Lifelong learning ensures that environmental knowledge and values
are passed down through generations, fostering a culture of sustainability.
• Professional Development: For professionals in various fields, continuous education ensures they integrate
environmental considerations into their work, promoting sustainable practices in industries like agriculture,
construction, and manufacturing.
By embedding environmental education into lifelong learning, individuals and societies can continuously improve
.
their efforts to protect and preserve the environment
 Pedagogy in Environmental Education
• Pedagogy refers to the art, science, and practice of teaching. It encompasses the methods and strategies that an educators use to facilitate
learning, as well as the underlying theories and principles that guide these methods.
• Pedagogy in environmental education focuses on the methods and practices used to effectively teach about the environment and sustainability.
• Pedagogical Strategies and rasponses
1. Inquiry-Based Learning
• Encourages students to ask questions, conduct research, and explore environmental topics through guided inquiry.
• Develops critical thinking and scientific reasoning skills.

2. Place-Based Education
• Utilizes the local environment and community as a context for learning.
• Connects students to their immediate surroundings and makes learning relevant and meaningful.

3. Outdoor and Experiential Learning

• Incorporates outdoor activities, field trips, and hands-on experiences.
• Enhances understanding through direct interaction with nature and real-life contexts.

4. Interdisciplinary Teaching
• Integrates subjects such as science, geography, social studies, and ethics.
• Provides a holistic understanding of environmental issues.
 Pedagogical strategies and approaches
5. Collaborative Learning
• Encourages group work and peer-to-peer learning.
• Fosters teamwork, communication, and shared responsibility.
6. Values and Ethical Education
• Discusses moral and ethical dimensions of environmental issues.
• Develops a sense of responsibility and stewardship.
7. Reflective Practice
• Incorporates reflection activities to help students process their experiences and learning.
• Encourages self-awareness and personal growth.
8. Systems Thinking
• Teaches students to understand the interconnections within ecosystems and human systems.
• Helps students grasp the complexity of environmental challenges.
9. Action-Oriented Education
• Encourages students to take action on environmental issues through projects, campaigns, and community involvement.
• Empowers students to become active participants in sustainability efforts.
10. Use of Technology
• Integrates digital tools and resources to enhance learning.
• Provides access to up-to-date information and global perspectives on environmental issues.
11. Cultural Relevance
• Acknowledges and incorporates diverse cultural perspectives and traditional ecological knowledge.
• Makes education more inclusive and relevant to all students.
 Types of environmental education
• Formal Education: Formal education refers to
environmental education that occurs in formal
educational settings, such as schools and
universities. This type of education often
includes courses and programs focused on
environmental issues and sustainability.

• Non-formal Education: Non-formal education

refers to environmental education that occurs
outside of formal educational settings, such as
community programs and workshops.

• Informal Education: Informal environmental

education refers to learning experiences that
occur outside of traditional classroom settings
and structured curricula. It encompasses a wide
range of activities, interactions, and resources
that contribute to environmental awareness,
knowledge, and skills in more relaxed or
spontaneous settings.
 Formal Environmental Education
Key aspects of formal environmental education include:

1.Curriculum Integration: Environmental education is often integrated into various subjects such as science,
geography, social studies, and even mathematics or language arts. This integration helps students understand
environmental concepts in the context of their regular academic studies.

2.Structured Learning: It involves planned lessons, activities, and projects that are designed to achieve specific
learning objectives related to environmental awareness, conservation practices, ecological principles, and
sustainable development.

3.Certified Programs: Some institutions offer certified environmental education programs, these may include
workshops, field trips, guest lectures, and hands-on activities.

4.Focus on Critical Thinking: Formal environmental education encourages students to think critically about
environmental issues, consider different perspectives, analyze data, and develop informed opinions.

5.Promotion of Environmental Citizenship: Beyond knowledge acquisition, formal environmental education

promotes active citizenship and encourages students to take personal and collective responsibility for
environmental stewardship.
 Formal Environmental Education
6.Educational Resources: Schools and institutions
often use textbooks, educational videos, interactive
websites, and other resources specifically designed
for environmental education to support teaching and
learning.

7.Global Perspective: Given the global nature of

many environmental challenges, formal
environmental education may also include
discussions on international environmental
agreements, cross-border environmental issues, and
the interconnectedness of ecosystems worldwide.

Overall, formal environmental education plays a

crucial role in equipping students with the
knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to address
current and future environmental challenges
responsibly and effectively.
 Informal Environmental Education
key characteristics and examples of informal EE:

1.Everyday Experiences: Informal EE often occurs through everyday experiences and interactions with the
environment. This could include exploring nature during leisure activities such as hiking, gardening, bird
watching, or visiting parks and nature reserves.

2.Hands-On Learning: It emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning where individuals directly engage with
natural environments. For example, participating in clean-up events, volunteering for habitat restoration
projects, or attending nature camps and workshops.

3.Media and Technology: Informal EE acquired through various media and technology platforms to
disseminate information and raise awareness about environmental issues. This includes documentaries, online
resources, social media campaigns, podcasts, and mobile apps focused on environmental topics.

4.Community-Based Initiatives: Local community organizations, museums, botanical gardens, and

environmental NGOs often play a significant role in informal EE by organizing events, exhibits, workshops, and
educational tours that highlight local ecosystems and conservation efforts.

5.Informal Conversations and Discussions: Informal EE also occurs through conversations with peers, family
members, and community members about environmental issues, sustainable practices, and personal
experiences related to nature.
 Informal Environmental Education
6.Lifelong Learning: Unlike formal EE, which is typically structured around specific learning objectives and
assessments, informal EE is more flexible and often fosters lifelong learning and curiosity about the natural
world.

7.Promotion of Environmental Values: Informal EE encourages the development of environmental values, such
as appreciation for biodiversity, conservation ethics, and a sense of responsibility towards sustainable living
practices.

8.Diverse Learning Settings: It takes place in diverse settings beyond schools, including homes, outdoor
recreational areas, community centers, and public events that promote environmental awareness and education.

Overall, informal EE complements formal education by providing opportunities for individuals of all ages to
deepen their understanding of environmental issues, connect with nature through informal and enjoyable
learning experiences.
Different modes of informal environmental education
Exhibition: Field Trip:
Purpose: Exhibitions can showcase various environmental issues, solutions, and Purpose: Field trips take participants out of the classroom and into natural
innovations. environments, conservation areas, or sustainable facilities.
Learning: Visitors can learn about environmental challenges such as climate change, Learning: Participants observe ecosystems, wildlife or sustainable practices firsthand,
biodiversity loss, or sustainable practices through interactive displays, visual aids, gaining a deeper understanding of environmental concepts and conservation efforts.
and demonstrations. Experiential Learning: Field trips provide experiential learning opportunities where
Engagement: Exhibitions encourage engagement with the public, raising awareness participants engage directly with the environment, fostering appreciation for nature and
and promoting discussion on environmental issues. environmental stewardship.

Quiz: Role Playing:

Purpose: Quizzes can test knowledge and raise awareness on environmental topics. Purpose: Role playing allows participants to explore different perspectives and scenarios
Learning: Participants research and study environmental facts, which can deepen related to environmental issues.
their understanding of ecological concepts, conservation efforts, and sustainability Learning: Participants assume roles such as policymakers, community members, or
practices. environmental activists, engaging in discussions and decision-making processes.
Competition: Quizzes foster a competitive spirit that motivates participants to learn Critical Thinking: Role playing promotes critical thinking, empathy, and understanding
more about environmental issues and solutions. of diverse viewpoints on environmental challenges and solutions..

Debate: Seminar:
Purpose: Debates encourage critical thinking and discussion on environmental Purpose: Seminars bring together experts, educators, and community members to
policies, practices, and ethical considerations. discuss current environmental issues, research findings, or sustainable practices.
Learning: Participants research and argue different viewpoints on environmental Learning: Participants learn from presentations, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions,
topics, promoting a deeper understanding of complex issues. gaining insights into emerging environmental trends and solutions.
Dialogue: Debates facilitate dialogue and exchange of ideas among participants, Networking: Seminars facilitate networking and collaboration among stakeholders
encouraging them to consider multiple perspectives and develop informed opinions. interested in environmental conservation and sustainability.

Eco Club: Project:

Purpose: Eco clubs promote environmental awareness and action among students or Purpose: Environmental projects involve hands-on activities designed to address local
community members. environmental issues or promote sustainability.
Learning: Members engage in activities such as tree planting, waste reduction Learning: Participants research, plan, and implement projects such as community
initiatives, or environmental cleanups. gardens, habitat restoration, waste reduction campaigns, or renewable energy initiatives.
Community Engagement: Eco clubs often collaborate with schools, local Community Impact: Projects empower participants to make a tangible impact on their
organizations, and communities to promote environmental stewardship and advocate environment, fostering teamwork, leadership skills, and a sense of environmental
for sustainable practices. responsibility.
Different modes of Informal Environmental Education

Poster Presentation: Demonstration:

Purpose: Poster presentations communicate research findings, environmental Purpose: Demonstrations showcase practical applications of environmental principles
data, or conservation initiatives to a broader audience. or sustainable technologies.
Learning: Participants conduct research, analyze data, and create visual Learning: Participants learn how to implement eco-friendly practices such as
presentations that educate others about environmental topics. composting, recycling, renewable energy solutions, or water conservation methods.
Communication Skills: Poster presentations enhance communication skills and Skill Development: Demonstrations offer hands-on experience and skill development
the ability to convey complex environmental concepts effectively. in sustainable practices, empowering participants to adopt environmentally responsible
behaviors.
 Role of NGOs and Government
• A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) is a social organization working towards a better society.
NGO's perform a variety of service & humanitarian functions, bring citizens concerns to the government,
advocate and monitor policies and encourage political participation through provisions of information.
Some are organized around specific issues, such as human rights, environment or health. They provide
analysis and expertise, serve as early working mechanisms and help monitor and implement
international arguments.
The functions of NGO's in protection of Environment
The NGO's constitute a worldwide net-work interacting with Governments and Internal intergovernmental
organization in shaping international environmental policies:
1. Creating awareness among the public on current environmental issues and solutions.
2. Facilitating the participation of various categories of stakeholders in the discussion on environmental issues.
3. Protecting the natural resources and entrusting the equitable use of resources.
4. Being involved in the protection of human rights to have a clean environment.
5. Analysis and monitoring of environmental quality.
6. Organizing seminars, lectures and group discussion for promotion of environmental awareness.
7. Helping the villages administrative officials projects on environmental protection

India has a number of NGOs that work in the field of environmental conservation and ecology
1. Assam Science Society:
It established as Gauhati Science Society in the year 1953 and subsequently renamed as Assam Science Society in the year
1956. They impart environmental education and training through camps for teachers and students and conduct surveys on
environment: This Society is Publishing Journal entitled: Journal of the Assam Science, Society.
2. The Bombay Natural History Society (BMIS)
One of the largest Non-Government organization established in 1883 with its Headquarters located in Hornbill House,
Mumbai, India. BNHS publishes its own journal entitled "Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society (Jour. Bombay Nat.
Hist. Soc.) since 1886 dealing with conservation of nature and biological diversity. The organization also sponsors studies in
Indian wildlife and conservation.
3. Centre for Environmental Education (CEE):
• This was established in August 1984 as a centre of excellence supported of by the Ministry of Environment & forest, Govt. of
India CEE, a National Institution with its Headquarter in Ahmadabad. They mainly aim to create environmental awareness in the
communities, conduct widespread environmental education and training programmes through a very vast network.
4. Centre for Science and Environment (CSE):
• This organization is founded by Mr. Anil Agarwal in the year 1980. Its Headquarter is situtated in New Delhi. It involved in
research, investigative and educational work in the field of pollution, forest, wildlife, land and water use. Publications; 'Down to
Earth'-a fortnightly environment magazine; Children's magazine: 'The Gobar Times'; books; reports; computer database; audio
visuals, etc. economic activities.
5. CPR Environmental Education Centre (C.P. Ramaswami Aiyar Foundation)
• CPR Ramaswami Aiyar Foundation was founded on 14 October 1966 as per the will of lawer C.P. Ramaswami Iyer. The
foundation is headquartered-in Chennai, India. It promotes environmental awareness, to produce and disseminate basic
educational and reference material on environment and to take up environmental projects. It works in the field of environmental
education.
6. Kerala Sastra Sahitiya Parishad
• It was established on 10th September, 1962. It head Office is situated in Parishad Bhavan, Guruvayoor Road, Trissur, Kerala.
The main aim is to preserve the environment, to provide alternative models for development and to popularize science among the
people. They have worked in the field of eco-development, creating awareness about water and energy conservation and
encouraging the use of non-conventional energy sources such as smokeless chulhas etc. This organization publishes two monthly
magazines-1. Sastra Keralam (for school students) and 2. Sastragathi and a biweekly, Eureka (for primary school students) and
also a news letter Parishad Vartha).
7. Kalpavriksh
• It began in 1979, with a campaign led by students to save Delhi. Its office in Pune, Maharashtra. It imparts environmental
education in schools and colleges by forming a network of nature clubs, conducting bird watching expeditions and nature trails
and has developed workbooks for the school level. Its Publications are: 1. The Little Green Book, 2. Narmada - a campaign
newsletter, 3. What is that bird (An illustrated guide)
8. Narmada Bachao Andalon
• Set up in 1986 (in MP) under the leadership of Medha Patkar. It aims mainly to educate those directly affected by large
development projects, such as tribals, on the social and environmental impact of such projects. To protest against the construction
of dams in the Narmada Valley in general. To help the tribals get a substantial share of the government's development
schemes/services and to unable them to undertake development activities themselves. They mainly educate, mobilize and organize
residents of the Narmada Valley on human rights and justice, alternative development policies, environmental issues related to big
dams in general and the Narmada project in particular. They undertake surveys of the affected villages, protest against land and
forest issues and government interference in this regard. Publication: They come out with a bi-monthly publication the Narmada
Samachar.
9. Foundation for Revitalization of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT)
• It is a registered public trust and Charitable society, which started its activities in 1993 under the guidance of Sam Pitroda and
Anant Darshan Shankar. Its Headquarter is in Bengluru. Its Mission is to demonstrate contemporary relevance of Indian Medical
Heritage by designing and implementing innovative programme on a size scale that will have societal impact. The three thrust
areas of FRLHTs work are: Conservation of natural resources used by Indian Systems of Medicine, Demonstrate the contemporary
relevance of traditional knowledge, Revitalizations of social processes for transmission of heritage. It envisage to systematically
elaborate concepts, theories, methodologies and techniques for trans-disciplinary doctoral research including the development of a
curriculum on inter-cultural science and applications of research to support endogenous development in rural communities.
10. The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT)
• A reptile zoo and a research station for reptiles and amphibians situated at 40 km south of Chennai (Tamil Nadu) was founded in
1976. The research station is a public trust and managed by a board of trustees. MCBT covers an area of 8.5 acres and is one of
the largest reptile zoos in the world. It also provides the nesting site for Olive Ridley Sea Turtles. The crocodile Bank is breeding
centre for gharials since 1989 and also known for the Indian painted roof turtle. The zoo has about 2500 reptiles including several
species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators.
11. Development Alternatives Group:
• Development Alternatives Group based in Delhi works in all parts of the country. It was established in 1983 (in New Delhi) to
design options and promote sustainable development through programs of economic efficiency, equity and social justice, resource
conservation, and self-reliance. Its activities cover the entire nation: It is working in the field of pollution monitoring and control,
waste recycling management, wasteland development, and appropriate technology. The main objectives of this NGO are: Economic
efficiency, Equity and social justice, Environmental harmony, Resource conservation, and Selfreliance.
12. The Energy Research Institute (TERI):
• Established in 1974, (It was formerly known as Tata Energy Research Institute) in Mithapur is a wholly independent, nonprofit
research institute. Its Headquarter is situated in New Delhi. It was founded by Darbari S. Seth. Its mission is to develop and
promote technologies, policies, and institutions for efficient and sustainable use of natural resources. It has been imparting
environmental education through projects, workshops, audio-visual aids, and quiz competitions. TERI also has a major program
in biotechnology, the applications of which are oriented towards increased biomass production, conservation of waste into useful
products & mitigating the harmful environmental impacts of several economic activities.

• List of International NGO's that work in the field of Environment

1. World Wide Fund for Nature-India (WWF-I):
• It is an autonomous non government organization and the Indian counterpart of the world wide Fund.
• This international organization deals with protection and conservation of the environment in India.
• Its office is housed at New Delhi.
• The energy conservation, forest biodiversity and climate change are the main areas being focused by the organization.
• WWF-I intends to develop healthy and sustainable world for the existing present and future human generations as well.
• WWF-I was launched as a charitable trust on 27 Nov. 1969. It was initially known as world wide fund with its office at the Horn
Bill House, Mumbai, In 1987 the name was changed to World Wide Fund for Nature India (WWF-I). The organization is now
simply, referred to as WWF.
• Its main aim is the promotion of conservation of nature and environmental protection as the basis for sustainable and equitable
development.
• Publications: They have innumerable books, cassettes and data on various issues which can be got from their outlets in the
cities. Some of them are-WWW Indian Network Newsletter (Quarterly), Nature News. The Web of Life - a resource pack for
children, The Law Digest, etc.
2. Greenpeace:
Greenpeace is an environment - friendly international organization present all across Europe, America and Asia. They aims at
promoting environmental awareness. It is an independent, campaigning organization, addressing the environmental abuse
through direct, non-violent confrontations with governments & companies. It exposes the global environmental problems and
provides solutions for a healthy environment. It was founded in 1971 by Irving Stowe and Dorothy Stowe, Canadian & US ex-
part environmental activists. This organization has offices in over 55 countries and an international coordinating body in
Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Greenpeace deals with the following objectives-
. climate change,
1. Stop
2. Protect Ancient forest,
3. Save the Oceans,
4. Stop whaling,
5. Say no to genetic engineering,
6. Stop the nuclear threat,
7. Eliminate toxic chemicals
8. Encourage sustainable trade.
Greenpeace India
•Greenpeace India is the Indian branch of Greenpeace.
•Greenpeace has been involved in a lot of major environment related decisions across India in the past few years like the Mercury
Thermometer factory shut down in Kodaikanal.
•They are strictly against thermal and nuclear power, coal and Aluminum mining etc.
•They are also promoting solar power for the benefit of us all.
•They are dependent on the common people for donations and do not accept donations from governments and organisations so
as to not bow down before them in case of any unprecedented favour.

3. East First:
It is a radical environmental advocacy group that emerged in the Southwestern United Group United State in 1979. It was
founded on April, 4, 1980 by Dave Foreman, Mike Roselle, Howie Wolke, Bart Kochler and Ron Kezar. The main Slogan of the
organization is "No compromise in defense of mother earth".
 Role of Information Technology
Information technology (IT) in the context of the environment refers to the application of digital technologies to monitor, manage,
and protect the environment. It encompasses a wide range of tools, systems, and techniques that maximize computing power and
data processing capabilities to address environmental challenges. IT can also be used to develop and built environment. IT tools and
software’s play an important role in environmental studies like disaster management, weather information, forest information etc.

Role: Information Technology (IT) plays a crucial role in environmental protection through various means:
1. Monitoring and Data Collection: IT enables the monitoring and collection of environmental data through sensors, satellites,
and IoT (Internet on Things) devices. This data helps in understanding environmental changes, pollution levels, climate patterns,
etc.
2. Simulation and Modeling: IT facilitates the creation of complex models and simulations that predict environmental outcomes
under different scenarios. This helps in making informed decisions about policies and practices.
3. Resource Management: IT systems are used for efficient management of natural resources such as water, energy, and forests.
This includes optimization of usage, reduction of waste, and sustainable practices.
4. Environmental Compliance: IT systems are employed for monitoring compliance with environmental regulations and standards.
This ensures that industries and businesses operate within legal environmental limits.
5. Green Technologies: IT supports the development and deployment of green technologies such as renewable energy systems,
energy-efficient devices, and sustainable agriculture practices.
6. Environmental Awareness: IT tools like websites, social media, and mobile apps are used to raise awareness about
environmental issues, educate the public, and promote eco-friendly behaviors.
7. Remote Work and Telecommuting: IT enables remote work and telecommuting, reducing the need for commuting and thereby
lowering carbon emissions associated with transportation.
8. Eco-friendly Design and Manufacturing: IT tools like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)
contribute to designing eco-friendly products, optimizing manufacturing processes, and reducing waste.
9. Supply Chain Management: IT systems improve transparency and efficiency in supply chains, promoting sustainable sourcing
practices and reducing the environmental footprint of products.
10. Policy Support and Advocacy: IT assists policymakers and environmental advocates by providing data-driven insights,
supporting policy formulation, and facilitating collaboration across different stakeholders.
 IT Tools Used In Environmental Protection
1. National Management Information System (NMIS): NMIS is a database compilation tool that is based on research and environmental development
projects. It also can be used for gathering scientific information and is used by scientists worldwide.

2. Environmental Information System (ENVIS): On December 1982, the Government of India after realising the importance of environmental
information established in ENVIS. The main objective of this database is to provide information to all the technical experts over the country. ENVIS has
also tied up with several Institutions and Organisation so the whole environment program would the meaningful. Several centres of ENVIS have been
developed in the recent years in conjunction with the focal point in the ministry of Environment and Forest. Its foremost objective is to build storage
repositories and dissemination centres for environment science

3. Geographical Information System (GIS): The Geographical Information System is mainly used for capturing,
analysing and storing data that has been obtained from the Geographic position of the Earth surface. It is the
tool that maps relationship, patterns and their respective trends. Geographical information system stores spatial
data in digital mapping environment, it can also be used for analysing the data and planning quick comparative
View of highly prone areas. It can also be used to produce graphical maps and patterns which can later be used
for analysis and presentation purpose. GIS plays an important role analysis and in formulating quick mitigation.

4. Remote Sensing: It involves gathering information through satellites which could be used to find the alterations in the environment and also protect
against natural disasters such as floods, Hurricane, cyclone etc. before they can attack the planet. Active sensors are used for scanning objects which help
us detect and measure the radiations that are reflected from the target. The sensors are usually mounted on the top of the satellite or airplanes which then
record the activities which are emitted from the surface of the earth.

5. World Wide Web (WWW): The World Wide Web, the powerful tool in providing information regarding all the social political and economic aspects. All
information about the environment its causes, hazards and how to overcome them can be obtained from the worldwide web.

6. Computer Aided Design (CAD): Computer aided design is used for accurately creating photo simulation that is required in the preparation of
environmental impact report. It also helps in minimizing the negative impacts of Planning and development which can be measured in terms of carbon
footprint, energy consumption and a water impact.

7. Building Information Modelling (BIM): It is not only a tool for assisting in design but it is also a change in design thinking and Management. All the
building information models are usually files of which can later be extracted or exchanged supporting decision making. The software currently is being
used by various individuals, business and organisations that use it to plan, design and construct the physical infrastructure. It also is a simulation
technology that has made it possible to carry out environmental protection.

8. Satellite Technology Satellites are used for monitoring the climate change as they monitor the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere
such as aerosol, water vapour carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and methane. It can also be used for monitoring the changes and help in promoting
responsible use of land and natural resources in order to protect our ecosystem. It helps us in monitoring the health of our forest. Canada producers a
yearly crop inventory that help the farmers better by using the satellite imagery.
 Mass Media In Environmental Protection

• The print (offline) and online media (social media) are the suitable platforms for the communication of social, political, and
economical news of the country. In the early twentieth century, awareness for environment protection took place an important
aspect among society through print and online media.
• From last decades, journalists were writing about the issues related to the environment to provide a vital link between field
workers, policy makers and the people who are layman in the field. It is undeniable that the media have played a big role to aware
people about various environment issues.
• Mass Media plays an important role in creating environmental awareness among people.
• For the saving of our nature, environmental awareness performs critical role among environmentalist, regulatory authorities,
government and non-government organization, academicians, researchers, students for creating interest in environment. The
environmental awareness leads to environmental protection.
• The different types of media can be categorized as:
Print Media which includes newspaper , Magazines and advertisement;
Broadcast Media which include Television and Radio;
Social Media (New Media) which includes Social Media and internet.
 Role of media for environmental awareness
Provides geographical knowledge - Newspapers, radio, television, and even the internet are providing a
comprehensive understanding of geographical knowledge to people. What is happening in the world today, which
place has been ignored and the relevant representations made through different forms of media produces deep
effects on the people;
Identification of forces affecting nature - Currently, human beings are building an artificial man made
environment by over utilising the natural resources in the name of economic and social development. Media can
report and educate people about certain forces and activities that adversely affect our environment;
Conservation of natural resources -Our primary target is not only controlling the wastage of various sources of
energy like oil, gas, coal, etc. the main focus should be on certain relative aspects which serve as a means of
environmental protection;
Dissemination of environmental information - Electronic media and print media are a major medium of
spreading information about environment among the population. Media educate people about various
environmental concerns and ways to address them;
Vocational information -Media also helps in providing vocational and professional information to a larger group
of the community. Recent programs on guidance about conversion of waste and garbage into compost by
households to save environment is an illuminating illustration;
Spreading awareness and civic responsibility -Media create awareness among people and enlighten them about
different problems of society. Media educates people about their roles in changing society through certain events
and programs. Helps to know how people can contribute towards environmental protection and sustainability and
build healthy environment.
 Types of Mass media in Environmental Awareness
A. Electronics:
• Radio happens to be the cheapest and easily accessible. The signals and frequencies of radio are covering almost the whole
country. Thus it can be used as a significant medium of creating environmental awareness. The weekly half-hour radio
magazine Living Planet tells environment stories from around the world, digging deeper into topics that touch our lives every
day;
• Television is another very good mode to communicate environmental issues among the society. Certain television channels
like Discovery Channel, National Geographic Channel, animal planet Channel broadcast exclusively on endangered species,
wild and sea life. Doordarshan Channel is being telecasted all over India and has regular programs on Environment. “Earth
Matters” focuses on one special environmental problem. It offers information on the sources, explains the consequences of the
problem considered and gives suggestions for the solution by changing individual behaviour.
B. Print Media:
•Print media is a powerful ally in educating the public on environmental matters. Newspapers, journals, magazines, etc. play
a key role in providing relevant information with required facts and pictures to the community. Articles and analyses explore
the environmental awareness in the common man about environmental problems. Sometimes separate column is there for
environmental issues.
C. Social Media:
•Today’s young generation makes ample of use of social media and internet platforms. They have emerged altogether as a new
form of media. Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, You Tube are connecting today’s generation. Certain global
environmental issues can be discussed on these platforms continuously. Government agencies and industries are also utilizing
social media as a preferred tool of communication with the people. There are several Facebook pages regarding environmental
issues. For example-Eco Resources, Adopt a Tiger Through the World Wildlife Fund, etc are some facebook pages on
environment.
• Internet The wide reach and accessibility of the Internet make it the best source of information for people around the world
about climate change, environmental issues and greenness. The Internet is more convenient for receiving news. Pointing your
browser to one of the many online news sites will show you all the latest news headlines, organized by topic, and more. The
Internet is not limited to computers. With a 3G or 4G connection, you can access the Internet anytime, anywhere at high
speed. Video sites like YouTube, Vimeo, etc. are a rich source of information. Just one tap on your smartphone and the world
is on your phone. Thus, these advanced technologies have enhanced environmental awareness.