NIOS Class 12 Introduction to Law Chapter 24 Environmental Law

NIOS Class 12 Introduction to Law Chapter 24 Environmental Law Solutions English Medium As Per New Syllabus. to each chapter is provided in the list so that you can easily browse throughout different chapters NIOS Class 12 Introduction to Law Chapter 24 Environmental Law Notes and select need one. NIOS Class 12 Introduction to Law Chapter 24 Environmental Law Question Answers Download PDF. NIOS Study Material of Class 12 Introduction to Law Paper Code: 338.

NIOS Class 12 Introduction to Law Chapter 24 Environmental Law

Also, you can read the NIOS book online in these sections Solutions by Expert Teachers as per National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) Book guidelines. These solutions are part of NIOS All Subject Solutions. Here we have given NIOS Class 12 Introduction to Law Chapter 24 Environmental Law Solutions, NIOS Senior Secondary Course Introduction to Law in Hindi Medium for All Chapter, You can practice these here.

Environmental Law

Chapter: 24

Module – 7 A: Environmental Law and Sustainable Development

INTEXT QUESTIONS 24.1 

1. Define the term ‘Environment’. 

Ans: ‘Environment’ is the sum total of water, air and land and the interrelationships that exist among them with human beings, other living organisms and materials. 

2. Give the definition of ‘Environment’ as given by the Supreme Court of India.

Ans: “Environment” is a difficult word to define. Its normal meaning relates to the surroundings, but obviously that is a concept which is relatable to whatever object which is surrounded. Environment is a polycentric and multi-faceted problem affecting human existence.

INTEXT QUESTIONS 24.2 

1. Define the following terms: 

(a) Water Pollution. 

Ans: ‘Water pollution’ is the contamination of water bodies (e. g. Lakes, rivers, oceans, aquifers and ground water).

(b) Air Pollution.

Ans: ‘Air Pollution’ is the introduction into atmosphere of chemicals particals, or biological materials that cause discomfort, disease, or death to humans, damage to other living organisms such as good crops, natural environment, of built environment. 

(c) Noise Pollution. 

Ans: Noise Pollution is any unwanted sound that disrupts environmental equilibrium and has harmful effects on environment, humans and animals 

2. Identify the major sources of Air pollution. 

Ans: Industrial emissions; Vehicular emissions; and Domestic emissions

3. Find out some adverse effects of noise pollution on human health. 

Ans: (a) Hearing loss or hearing impairment. 

(b) Rise in blood pressure.

(c) Increase in stress level. 

(d) Cardio–vascular health effects and. 

(e) Decrease in efficiency and concentration.

INTEXT QUESTIONS 24.3 

1. Define the term ‘Environmental Protection’. 

Ans: Environmental protection is a practice of protecting the natural environment at individual organization or governmental levels, for the benefit of natural environment and humans.

2. List the factors which influences ‘Environmental Protection’. 

Ans: Environmental protection is influenced by three interwoven factors : environmental, legislation, ethics and education. 

INTEXT QUESTIONS 24.4 

Fill in the Blanks:

1. The human beings need clean food and water for _______. 

Ans: Survival.

 2. If we do not stop pollution, it is sure that the world will come to an _____.

Ans: End.

INTEXT QUESTIONS 24.5 

Write True/False. 

1. The Ministry of environment and Forests (MOEF) is the nodal agency for planning, promotion, cooperations and overseeing the implementation of India’s environmental and forestry policies and programmes. (True/False)

Ans: True.

2. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 was enacted to provide for the prevention and control of water pollution. (True/False)

Ans: True.

3. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 was enacted to provide for the prevention, control and abatement of air pollution in India. (True/False) 

Ans: True.

4. The objective of the Environment Protection Act, 1986 is to protect and improve the environment in the country. (True/False) 

Ans: True.

5. The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 lays down rules to reduce environmental noise pollution. (True/False) 

Ans: True.

6. The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1981 aims to provide immediate, relief to the persons affected by accident occurring while handling any hazardous substance. (True/False) 

Ans: True.

7. The main objective of the ‘Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) (ODS) Rules, 2000’ is protection of ozone layer. (True/False)

Ans: True.

INTEXT QUESTIONS 24.6 

1. Describe two main functions of Central Pollution Control Board. 

Ans: The two main functions of Central Pollution Control Board are: 

(i) To promote cleanliness of streams and wells is different areas of the states by prevention, control and abatement of water pollution; and.

(ii) To improve the quality of air and to prevent, control or abate air pollution in the country. 

2. List any two functions of State Pollution Control Board. 

Ans: The two main functions of State Pollution Boards are : 

(i) To advise the state government an matters relating to pollution and on siting of industry; and.

(ii) To plan programmes for pollution control.

TERMINAL EXERCISES

1. Define the term ‘Environmental Pollution’. 

Ans: Environmental pollution refers to any unfavourable change in the natural environment, wholly or largely caused by human activities. It involves the addition of harmful or foreign substances to air, water or soil, which alters their natural physical, chemical and biological characteristics and makes them injurious to living organisms.

Such changes may occur immediately or after a period of time. Factors like industrialisation, population explosion, urbanisation, poverty and over-exploitation of natural resources have significantly contributed to environmental pollution and environmental deterioration.

2. Explain the following terms: 

(a) Air Pollution. 

Ans: Air pollution is the contamination of the atmosphere by harmful substances such as gases, chemicals, particles or biological materials, which cause harm to human health, other living organisms and the environment.

Air contains a mixture of various gases like oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide and argon. When harmful substances are introduced into the atmosphere, they cause discomfort, disease or death to humans and damage food crops, the natural environment and the built environment.

The major sources of air pollution are:

(i) Industrial emissions.

(ii) Vehicular emissions.

(iii) Domestic emissions.

The most common air pollutants in urban areas include Sulphur dioxide (SO2 ), Nitrogen oxides (NO & NO2 ), Carbon monoxide (CO), etc. Apart from this, the gases discharged from refrigerators, air conditioners etc. are responsible for depletion of the Ozone layer.

(b) Water Pollution.

Ans: Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies such as rivers, lakes, oceans, aquifers and groundwater. It occurs when harmful substances like chemicals, sewage, industrial waste, agricultural runoff and domestic waste are discharged directly or indirectly into water bodies without proper treatment.

Water pollution makes water unfit for drinking, irrigation and other domestic uses. It also harms aquatic life and disturbs the natural balance of the ecosystem. Continuous discharge of pollutants leads to serious environmental and health problems.

(c) Noise Pollution.

Ans: Noise pollution refers to the presence of excessive or unwanted sound in the environment that disturbs environmental equilibrium and causes harm to living beings.

The word ‘noise’ originated from the Latin word ‘nausea’ meaning sea-sickness. ‘Noise’ is any unwanted sound that disrupts environmental equilibrium. Noise is measured in decibels. A major source of ‘noise’ is by motor vehicles, aircrafts, fire-crackers, sirens, loud speakers and machinery. 

According to a survey conducted by the National Physical Laboratory, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata are amongst the noisiest cities in the world. Noise pollution has harmful effects on the environment, humans and animals.

Some adverse effects of noise pollution on human health are: 

(i) Hearing loss or hearing impairment.

(ii) Rise in blood pressure.

(iii) Cardio-vascular health effects.

(iv) Increase in stress level. and

(v) Decrease in efficiency and concentration.

3. Environment Protection Act is an umbrella legislation that consolidated the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981. Explain. 

Ans: (i) The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 is known as an umbrella legislation because it provides a comprehensive framework for the protection and improvement of the environment.

(ii) Earlier, environmental protection in India was governed separately by the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

(iii) The Water Act mainly focused on preventing and controlling water pollution, while the Air Act dealt with the prevention and control of air pollution.

(iv) The Environment Protection Act consolidated the provisions of both these Acts by granting wide powers to the Central Government to protect air, water and land.

(v) It authorises the government to set environmental standards, regulate industrial activities, control emissions and effluents, and impose penalties for violations.

(vi) Thus, the Act integrates the objectives of the Water Act and the Air Act under a single, comprehensive law, making environmental protection more effective.

4. Describe the main functions of Central & State Pollution Control Boards. 

Ans: Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB): The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organisation constituted in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to deal with the rising problem of pollution in India. It is also entrusted with powers under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

Main functions of the Central Pollution Control Board are:

(i) To advise the Central Government on matters concerning the prevention and control of water and air pollution and improvement of air quality.

(ii) To plan and execute nationwide programmes for the prevention, control or abatement of water and air pollution.

(iii) To provide technical assistance and guidance to State Pollution Control Boards and to carry out or sponsor research related to water and air pollution.

(iv) To prepare manuals, codes and guidelines for the treatment and disposal of sewage and trade effluents and for stack gas cleaning devices, stacks and ducts.

(v) To lay down or modify, in consultation with State Governments, standards for streams and wells and standards for air quality.

State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs): Every State has its own Pollution Control Board, such as UPPCB (Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board), DPCC (Delhi Pollution Control Committee), HPCB (Haryana State Pollution Control Board) and RPCB (Rajasthan Pollution Control Board).

Main functions of the State Pollution Control Boards are:

(i) To advise the State Government on matters relating to pollution and the siting of industries.

(ii) To plan and implement pollution control programmes within the State.

(iii) To collect and disseminate information related to pollution.

(iv) To carry out inspection of polluting industries and areas.

(v) To lay down effluent and emission standards for industries.

(vi) To issue consent to industries and other activities to ensure compliance with prescribed emission and effluent standards.

5. Visit the river Yamuna, observe the activities going on there. Check the pollution causing activities. Write a report in five hundred words on the causes of pollution of Yamuna and the measures required to check it. 

Ans: The river Yamuna is one of the most important rivers of northern India and a major source of water for Delhi and nearby regions. A visit to the Yamuna, especially along the Delhi stretch, clearly shows that the river is highly polluted. Various human activities along the riverbanks and within the river itself have severely affected its water quality. This report discusses the major causes of pollution of the Yamuna and the measures required to control and reduce it.

Causes of Pollution of River Yamuna:

(i) Discharge of Untreated Sewage: A large amount of domestic sewage from residential colonies is directly discharged into the Yamuna without proper treatment. This is the biggest source of pollution and makes the river water highly contaminated.

(ii) Industrial Effluents: Many industries located near the river release chemical waste, toxic substances and heavy metals into the river. These effluents pollute the water and make it harmful for aquatic life.

(iii) Solid Waste Dumping: Garbage such as plastic, polythene, food waste and other solid materials are dumped into the river and on its banks, leading to severe water pollution.

(iv) Religious Activities: Idol immersion, disposal of flowers, ashes and other religious offerings in the river increase organic and non-biodegradable waste.

(v) Washing and Bathing: People use the river water for washing clothes, bathing animals and for personal hygiene. This adds detergents, soap and dirt to the river water, thereby increasing pollution.

(vi) Agricultural Runoff: Fertilisers and pesticides from nearby agricultural fields enter the river through rainwater runoff and contaminate the water.

Measures Required to Check Pollution:

(i) Treatment of Sewage: All domestic sewage should be properly treated in sewage treatment plants before being discharged into the river.

(ii) Control on Industrial Waste: Industries must strictly follow the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and treat their effluents before discharge.

(iii) Proper Solid Waste Management: Dumping of garbage into the river should be strictly prohibited and effective waste collection systems should be implemented.

(iv) Regulation of Religious Activities: Separate tanks and designated places should be provided for idol immersion and disposal of religious waste.

(v) Public Awareness: People should be made aware of the harmful effects of river pollution and encouraged to protect the river.

(vi) Government Initiatives: Effective implementation of programmes such as the Yamuna Action Plan is necessary to restore the health of the river.

6. The levels of air-pollution are very high in Delhi these days. Taking help from the lesson, check out the causes of air pollution and the remedial measures to check further pollution. Write a report of about five hundred words. 

Ans: Delhi is one of the most polluted cities in the world. In recent years, the level of air pollution in the city has increased rapidly, posing a serious threat to human health and the environment. The presence of harmful gases and particulate matter in the air has resulted in respiratory diseases, eye irritation, cardiovascular problems and reduced visibility. This report examines the main causes of air pollution in Delhi and suggests remedial measures to check further pollution.

Causes of Air Pollution in Delhi:

(i) Vehicular Emissions: A large number of vehicles in Delhi emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. Traffic congestion further increases emissions and worsens air quality.

(ii) Industrial Emissions: Industries and thermal power plants release smoke, dust and toxic gases into the atmosphere, contributing significantly to air pollution.

(iii) Construction and Road Dust: Rapid urbanisation has led to continuous construction activities. Dust from construction sites and unpaved roads adds fine particulate matter to the air.

(iv) Burning of Crop Residue: Stubble burning in neighbouring states releases large amounts of smoke and pollutants, which are carried to Delhi by wind and worsen pollution levels.

(v) Burning of Garbage: Open burning of municipal waste and plastic releases poisonous gases and increases air pollution.

(vi) Use of Firecrackers: The use of firecrackers during festivals releases toxic chemicals and fine particles, leading to a sudden rise in air pollution.

Remedial Measures to Check Air Pollution:

(i) Promotion of Public Transport: Encouraging the use of public transport such as buses and metro trains can reduce the number of private vehicles on roads.

(ii) Use of Cleaner Fuels: Vehicles should be encouraged to use cleaner fuels such as CNG and electricity to reduce emissions.

(iii) Control on Industrial Pollution: Industries must install pollution control devices and strictly follow the provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

(iv) Control of Construction Dust: Construction sites should be properly covered, and water sprinkling should be done regularly to control dust.

(v) Ban on Waste Burning: Strict action should be taken against open burning of garbage and crop residue.

(vi) Afforestation: Planting more trees and developing green belts help in absorbing pollutants and improving air quality.

7. Visit five major government hospitals of Delhi and collect data on the number of patients who come to the OPD with complaints of respiratory problems caused due to air pollution. Write your report in five hundred words referring to the relevant promises of law. 

Ans: Report on Respiratory Problems Caused by Air Pollution in Delhi:

(i) Introduction: Air pollution is one of the major environmental and public health challenges in Delhi. Pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide and vehicle emissions contribute to respiratory diseases like asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and allergies. This report is based on sample data collected for educational purposes from the OPDs of five major government hospitals.

(ii) Methodology:

The survey was conducted for one week (__________) in the OPDs of the following government hospitals:

• All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).
• Lok Nayak Hospital.
• Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital.
• Safdarjung Hospital.
• Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital.

The data below is sample data prepared for project work.

(iii) Sample Data:

Hospital	Total OPD Patients	Respiratory Cases due to Air Pollution
AIIMS	8,250	2,100
Lok Nayak Hospital	7,500	1,850
Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital	6,800	1,540
Safdarjung Hospital	9,000	2,420
Dr. RML Hospital	7,200	1,680

(iv) Observations:

• A significant number of patients reported cough, breathlessness, wheezing and chest congestion.

• Children, senior citizens and people with existing respiratory illnesses were the most affected.

• Doctors observed that symptoms often became more severe during periods of high pollution.

• Long-term exposure to polluted air increases the risk of chronic respiratory diseases.

(v) Relevant Laws:

• The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 – Provides for the prevention, control and reduction of air pollution.

• The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 – Empowers the Central Government to protect and improve environmental quality.

• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), 2019 – Aims to improve air quality by reducing pollution levels in major cities, including Delhi.

Conclusion: The sample data indicates that respiratory illnesses are a major health concern in Delhi due to air pollution. Although India has laws such as the Air Act, 1981 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, stronger implementation, stricter emission control, promotion of public transport, increased green cover and public awareness are necessary to reduce pollution and protect public health.

8. Assuming you are living in a residential area which also has two hospitals. The city airport which is located close to your colony works for 24 hours with flights landing and taking off. Incidentally, the colony already existed, but the airport authorities have started using a newly constructed runway recently. The day somehow passes off but at might, the deafening sound of landing and taking-off of aeroplanes traumatises the in-patients and contributes to them increasing stress levels which can be dangerous at times. 

Ans: The continuous landing and take-off of aeroplanes near the residential colony and hospitals causes severe noise pollution, especially during night hours. This creates serious problems for in-patients by increasing stress levels and disturbing sleep, which can be dangerous for their health.

Measures to control noise pollution:

(i) Night landing and take-off of aeroplanes near residential and hospital areas should be restricted.

(ii) Hospitals and nearby houses should be properly soundproofed.

(iii) Silence zones should be strictly enforced around hospitals.

(iv) Noise barriers and green belts should be developed near the runway.

(v) Aircraft with noise-reducing technology should be used.

(vi) Noise pollution control laws should be strictly implemented by authorities.

9. Draft a letter to the concerned authority stating the problem of these patients while referring to the applicable laws on noise pollution. Request them to close the airport at least at night to give some respite to the patients in the hospitals. 

Ans: From:

A Resident, __________ Colony

To:

The Airport Authority, __________ City

Date: __________

Subject: Request to restrict night-time airport operations due to noise pollution

Sir/Madam,

I wish to draw your attention to the serious problem of noise pollution caused by continuous landing and take-off of aircraft near our residential colony, which also has two hospitals. The loud noise during night hours causes severe disturbance to in-patients and increases their stress levels.

According to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, silence zones must be maintained around hospitals, especially during night hours. I therefore request you to kindly restrict or close airport operations at night to provide relief to the patients.

I hope necessary action will be taken at the earliest.

Thank you.

Yours faithfully,