Environmental Economics in India

Contents: Preface. 1. Environmental economics: an introduction. 2. Environment in India: policies and programmes. 3. Air pollution. 4. Water pollution. 5. Protection of forests. 6. Urban development and environment. 7. Rural development and environment. 8. Disaster management. 9. Climate change. 10. Recent initiatives to improve environment in India. Appendices. Bibliography. Index.

"Environmental economics is a branch of economics which deals with the inter-relationships between environment and development. Environmental economics examines the interface between economic agents and environment. Economic activities of human beings have a profound impact on natural environment. Hence, use/abuse of natural resources has raised many moral, legal and practical questions for present and future generation.

Environmental pollution is one of the major problems faced by the world community, especially in the cities of the developing countries which have experienced unbridled growth of population, urbanization and industrialization. Municipal services, such as water supply and sanitation, drainage of storm water, management of solid and hazardous wastes, supply of adequate and safe food and housing, are unable to keep pace with urban growth. The unplanned location of industries in and around urban areas and volume of traffic have caused serious pollution problems. All these factors have led to deteriorating environmental conditions and adverse effect on the health of the people.

This book deals with various environmental problems in India and the remedial measures taken by the government to mitigate them." (jacket)