This issue of Policy Watch is dedicated to the theme of Environment, Natural Resources, and Sustainability, presenting five articles that collectively address sustainable development solutions, future pathways for sustainability, and the importance of integrating people’s voices in environmental decision-making.
The first two articles focus on region-specific sustainable solutions in India. The article by Vijay Mahajan and SS Tabrez Nasar discusses “Amphibious Living Opportunities” for the Indian Sundarbans, a region increasingly threatened by erratic weather, drought, water scarcity, and agricultural failure. The authors propose that communities in the Sundarbans must adapt to extreme climate conditions through innovative, climate-resilient livelihoods and policy frameworks that support adaptation, such as elevation recovery, diversified agriculture, and water management. The second article, by Dr. Sanjiv Phansalkar, summarizes the positive impact of tank restoration projects by PRADAN in the semi-arid regions of Tamil Nadu, where reviving traditional water tanks has restored both local livelihoods and the village ecosystem.
The third and fourth articles turn to broader sustainability strategies. The third, sourced from the Economic Times, explores the concept of a Green Bank as a financial mechanism to help India achieve its net-zero carbon goals by 2070. It compiles recommendations from business and banking leaders for funding sustainable development. The fourth article covers the latest declaration from the Mountain Partnership, released at its sixth global meeting in September 2022. This declaration underscores a renewed commitment to sustainable mountain development through advocacy, partnerships, research, and field-level action.
The fifth article documents a grassroots movement in Uttarakhand, where local villagers are contesting the use of a community forest by a renewable energy company for waste dumping. For generations, these villagers have sustainably depended on the forest for fuel and fodder. This case highlights the complex, sometimes conflicting, interpretations of sustainability at the micro level and the necessity of incorporating local voices in development decisions.
Together, these articles provide a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in pursuing sustainable development in India, emphasizing climate resilience, financial innovation, inclusive policy, and the critical role of community participation.
Policy Watch: Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability – October 2022
Send download link to:
