‘Some of the most significant responses to the challenge of environmental degradation have………………

Question 6:‘Some of the most significant responses to the challenge of environmental zegradation have come from the environmental movements’. Justify the
statement with special reference to movements against extraction of earth and
against mega- dams.

The correct answer is – The statement, “Some of the most significant responses to the challenge of environmental degradation have come from the environmental movements,” is true. Environmental movements have played a crucial role in raising awareness about environmental issues, mobilizing public opinion, and pressuring governments and corporations to take action to protect the environment.

Two examples of environmental movements that have been particularly effective in responding to the challenge of environmental degradation are the movements against extraction of earth and against mega-dams.

The movement against extraction of earth, also known as anti-mining or anti-extraction movements, aims to protect natural resources and communities from the harmful effects of mining and extraction activities. These movements have been particularly active in developing countries, where large multinational corporations often engage in mining and extraction activities with little regard for the environmental and social impacts of their actions. Anti-mining movements have been successful in pressuring governments and corporations to adopt more responsible practices, including stricter environmental regulations, better compensation for affected communities, and the adoption of alternative, more sustainable economic models.

The movement against mega-dams, on the other hand, aims to prevent the construction of large dams that can have significant environmental and social impacts. Mega-dams can lead to the displacement of local communities, the destruction of natural habitats, and the alteration of river ecosystems. Anti-dam movements have been particularly effective in developing countries, where large dams are often built without proper consultation with affected communities and without proper consideration of the environmental and social impacts of the project. These movements have successfully prevented the construction of many large dams around the world, and have promoted alternative, more sustainable approaches to water management, such as decentralized water systems and rainwater harvesting.

In both cases, environmental movements have been instrumental in raising awareness about the environmental and social impacts of these activities, mobilizing public opinion, and pressuring governments and corporations to adopt more responsible practices. Their efforts have resulted in significant changes in policy and practice, and have helped to promote more sustainable approaches to resource management and economic development.