Mains Syllabus: GS III - Environmental pollution and degradation;
According to a new study published in Nature, India is the biggest plastic polluter in the world, releasing 9.3 million tonnes (Mt) annually.
Environmental Principles Developed by Judiciary |
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Principle |
Case |
About |
Precautionary Principle |
Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India |
It states that lack of scientific certainty should not be used as a reason to postpone measures to prevent environmental degradation where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage. |
Absolute Liability |
M.C. Mehta v. Union of India - Oleum Gas Leak Case |
The entity undertaking hazardous or inherently dangerous activities is liable for any damage caused, irrespective of whether they took reasonable care |
Polluter Pays Principle |
Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action v. Union of India |
It holds that the financial cost of preventing or remedying environmental damage should lie with the entity causing the pollution |
Public Trust Doctrine |
M.C. Mehta v. Kamal Nath |
It asserts that the State is a trustee of natural resources like air, water, and forests, and these resources should be available for public use and not be subject to private ownership or exploitation |