Define Environmental Studies?
There are several fields of study associated with the environment. With time, man realized the growing importance of maintaining his environment, and subjects such as ecology, environmental engineering, environmental sciences, environmental studies etc. gained popularity. There is a fundamental difference between environmental science and environmental studies. The former lays emphasis on scientific qualities and issues of environmental interest, while environmental studies focus on questions related to environmental ethics and aesthetics. The concern for preserving the environment is a relatively new phenomenon. There was a time when man would derive the maximum benefit from his surroundings, without thinking of the consequences. It was only since the 1950s that nations of the world started conservation and wise utilization of their natural resources — such as water, soil, fuel, flora and fauna. It has been accepted that nature is a treasure-house that provides us with food, water, energy, medicine and various other amenities. No wonder the prevention and protection of the environment has become so crucial. Developed countries have made considerable progress in the field of protection and conservation of the environment on a-long-term basis. However, the developing nations, were quite late in understanding the gravity of the situation, and, hence, they are lagging behind.
