lecture_notes

Environmental Law

Environmental Law

A body of law that regulates the interaction between humans and the environment with the goal of protecting nature.

Principle of Precaution

A principle that advocates for preventive action in the face of uncertainty regarding environmental harm.

Polluter Pays Principle

A policy approach where those who produce pollution bear the costs of managing it to prevent damage to human health or the environment.

Inter-generational Equity

The concept that requires the needs of current generations to be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Sustainable Development

Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Dharma

In the context of Indian philosophy, it refers to a moral order or duty which includes responsibilities towards nature and the environment.

Directive Principles of State Policy

Guidelines for the framing of laws by the government in India, intended to ensure social and economic justice.

Absolute Liability

A strict form of liability that holds defendants accountable for damages without need to prove negligence or fault.

Environment Protection Act, 1986

An act enacted by the Indian Parliament to protect and improve the quality of the environment and to control environmental pollution.

Customary Law

Law that derives its authority from long-standing customs and practices rather than written statutes.

Fundamental Duties

Responsibilities placed upon citizens by the Constitution of India, which include protecting and improving the natural environment.

Right to Life and Liberty (Article 21)

A provision in the Indian Constitution that has been interpreted to include the right to a healthy environment.

Hazardous Substances

Materials that pose a risk to health or the environment due to their chemical properties.

Central Pollution Control Board

A body established under the Water Act for monitoring and controlling pollution in India.

Public Nuisance

An act that causes inconvenience or damage to the public at large or to a community.