Protection of The Environment: It is The Responsibility of Citizens

The protection of the environment is a shared responsibility that transcends borders and industries. In today’s world, the concept of environmental stewardship has become an integral part of corporate social responsibility. To thrive in a competitive global landscape, many industrial and corporate entities have embraced environmental sustainability as a cornerstone of their operations. They recognize that alongside business excellence, they must prioritize environmental considerations to achieve long-term success.

The urgency of addressing environmental issues on a global scale cannot be overstated. Environmental degradation poses significant challenges to social, economic, and political stability worldwide. National and international efforts are underway to curb, prevent, and mitigate the adverse effects of environmental pollution. In this regard, corporate environmental reporting (CER) has emerged as a pivotal tool for enhancing environmental management and overall corporate governance.

The growing awareness among stakeholders regarding corporate environmental performance has rendered traditional reporting practices obsolete. Companies risk losing stakeholder trust if they fail to incorporate environmental performance information into their mainstream reporting practices. Mere compliance with mandatory environmental reporting requirements is insufficient to meet stakeholder expectations. Transparency and accountability in environmental disclosure have become essential elements of corporate credibility.

Looking ahead, environmental reporting through internet platforms is poised to become the norm in scientific communication. Numerous national and international surveys have observed a rising trend in internet-based reporting by companies. In India, environmental reporting by companies can be broadly categorized into mandatory and voluntary disclosures. Preliminary investigations indicate a predominance of voluntary environmental reporting, encompassing satellite reporting, sustainability reporting, GRI reporting, and internet-based reporting.

The Indian Constitution, under Article 51A of Directive Principles, mandates every citizen to protect and enhance the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife. This constitutional provision is reinforced by a comprehensive framework of laws, acts, rules, and notifications aimed at environmental conservation and sustainability. These include the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974; the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, among others.

The establishment of the Department of Environment in India in 1980, subsequently restructured into the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MOEF) in 1985, marked a significant milestone in environmental governance. The Environment Protection Act, of 1986, enacted in response to the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, serves as a comprehensive legislative framework for environmental protection. The Ministry of Environment & Forest, Government of India, has introduced a range of regulatory and non-regulatory initiatives to harmonize environmental protection with economic development.

Companies in India are required to adhere to various reporting requirements related to environmental conservation and sustainability. These include mandatory disclosures on the conservation of energy, technology absorption, and environmental protection measures. Financial accounting and reporting guidelines issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) govern corporate reporting practices in India.

As global concerns over environmental protection continue to escalate, India has established a Union Ministry of Environment to coordinate environmental protection efforts at the national level. With the enactment of relevant legislation and the implementation of proactive measures, India is committed to safeguarding its natural heritage for future generations.

Safeguarding the environment is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative. It requires collective action and unwavering commitment from citizens, corporations, and governments alike. By embracing environmental responsibility, we can create a sustainable future for all.