UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 Questions Number 2(b) Solution

Global warming and climate change are the outcomes of human greed in the name of development, indicating the direction in which extinction of organisms including human beings is heading towards loss of life on Earth. How do you put an end to this to protect life and bring equilibrium between the society and the environment?

Introduction

The pursuit of development fueled by human greed has led to unsustainable practices and excessive consumption leading to environmental degradation and climate instability. It  presents a grave moral challenge as they threaten the well-being of current and future generations as well as countless other species.

Measures to protect life and restore equilibrium

• • Intergenerational responsibility: Ethical duty to preserve the environment for future generations by adopting sustainable development practices.
    • Eg. The Paris Agreement (2015) to limit global temperature rise to 2°C.

• Environmental justice: Climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, and developed nations have an ethical responsibility to assist them.

• Eg.Green Climate Fund supports developing countries in adaptation.

• Ethics of consumption and lifestyle modification: Society must shift towards sustainable consumption to reduce environmental harm.

• Eg. Mission LiFE of India. 

• Global solidarity and cooperation: Global cooperation to address climate change with shared responsibility and mutual aid.

• Eg.: Kyoto Protocol, Montreal protocol etc.

• Respect for all Life Forms: Ethically, humans must respect all life and ecosystems, moving away from exploitation of nature.

• Eg. Convention on Biological Diversity promotes biodiversity conservation. Philosophy of Jainism also promotes respect for all lifeforms. 

• Environmental stewardship: Humans have a moral duty to restore and conserve ecosystems that sustain life.

• Eg. traditional practice of conserving sacred groves. .

• Ethical innovation and technology: Investing in green technology can advance development without harming the environment.

• Eg. Green hydrogen mission.

• Education and awareness: Raising environmental awareness through education to promote responsible behavior towards nature.
• Eg. : Eco Clubs in schools.

Conclusion

“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” – Robert Swan

It is our collective responsibility to act towards environment friendly lifestyle ensuring ethical choices, sustainable practices and global cooperation to create a healthier, sustainable and more balanced world.

Sharing is caring!