MEVE 012: Unit 13 - Internet and Environmental Management

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 UNIT 13: INTERNET AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

13.0 Introduction

The internet and digital technologies have revolutionized the way we approach environmental management. From real-time pollution monitoring to global awareness campaigns, the internet enables rapid data exchange, collaboration, and access to environmental information. Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing play a critical role in environmental protection, policymaking, and disaster response.

This unit explores how the internet enhances the functions of global and national environmental organizations, facilitates monitoring and disaster management, and introduces emerging tools like IoT in environmental governance.

13.1 Objectives

After studying this unit, learners should be able to:

  • Understand the role of the internet in supporting environmental management.
  • Identify major international and national organizations utilizing the internet for environmental protection.
  • Explore the structure and functions of the MoEFCC and CPCB in India.
  • Recognize how internet-based systems support environmental monitoring and disaster response.
  • Understand the concept and application of the Internet of Things (IoT) in environmental contexts.

13.2 Internet and Environment Protection Organisations

Environmental organizations across the globe rely on the internet for outreach, information sharing, policy dissemination, data collection, and public engagement. Below are key organizations and how they leverage internet tools.

13.2.1 United Nations (www.un.org)

The United Nations system hosts multiple specialized bodies focused on environment and sustainability, all of which utilize online platforms for research, knowledge exchange, and action.

13.2.1.1 The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

  • Website: https://www.unep.org
  • UNEP is the leading global authority on the environment. It sets the global environmental agenda and promotes sustainable development.
  • Online tools include databases, environmental assessments, climate reports, and interactive maps.
  • It supports international agreements like the Paris Agreement and hosts platforms like World Environment Situation Room for real-time data.

13.2.1.2 International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN)

  • Website: https://www.iucn.org
  • IUCN maintains the Red List of Threatened Species, accessible online.
  • It uses internet tools to support research, conservation planning, and communication among scientists, governments, and NGOs.

13.2.2 The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

  • Website: https://moef.gov.in
  • It is India’s nodal agency for planning, promoting, and coordinating environmental policies and programmes.
  • The ministry uses online portals for:
    • Publishing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs)
    • Granting environmental clearances
    • Hosting national reports to international conventions (e.g., CBD, UNFCCC)
    • Engaging in public consultations through online forms

13.2.3 Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

  • Website: https://cpcb.nic.in
  • CPCB monitors pollution levels across India using online platforms and publishes air and water quality indices.
  • Initiatives like the National Air Quality Index (NAQI) and Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS) provide real-time data on pollution.

13.2.3.1 State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)

  • SPCBs work under CPCB in each state and have dedicated websites and portals.
  • They:
    • Issue permits
    • Conduct environmental audits
    • Upload inspection and compliance reports
    • Engage with citizens and industries via e-filing systems

13.2.4 The Legislative Structure

India’s environmental legislation is accessible online, improving transparency and enforcement. Key laws include:

  • The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
  • The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
  • The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
  • The Forest Conservation Act, 1980
  • The Biological Diversity Act, 2002

Web-based portals like ENVIS (Environmental Information System) help disseminate legal documents, case studies, and updates on regulations.

13.3 Monitoring and Disaster Management System

The internet significantly enhances environmental monitoring and disaster preparedness:

  • Remote Sensing and GIS: Used for tracking deforestation, glacier melting, land-use changes, and disaster-prone zones.
  • IMD and NDMA Portals: The Indian Meteorological Department and National Disaster Management Authority use internet platforms to issue early warnings for floods, cyclones, heatwaves, and earthquakes.
  • Bhuvan Portal (ISRO): Provides geospatial data for disaster management.
  • Real-Time Water Monitoring: Central Water Commission uses online dashboards to monitor river levels.

These systems improve accuracy, speed of response, and informed decision-making during disasters.

13.4 The Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT refers to a network of interconnected devices that collect and exchange data in real-time. In environmental management, IoT offers transformative potential:

Applications of IoT in Environment:

  • Smart Air Monitoring: Sensors track air pollutants like PM2.5, NOx, and SO2.
  • Water Quality Monitoring: IoT devices monitor pH, turbidity, and contaminants in rivers and lakes.
  • Waste Management: Smart bins and GPS-tracked vehicles optimize waste collection.
  • Forest and Wildlife Monitoring: Sensors detect fires or illegal logging; camera traps monitor wildlife movement.
  • Smart Agriculture: Sensors track soil moisture, rainfall, and optimize irrigation.
  • Energy Efficiency: IoT in smart grids and smart homes helps reduce emissions.

These tools are vital for real-time monitoring, efficient resource use, and timely interventions.

13.5 Let Us Sum Up

The internet has become an indispensable tool in environmental management, enabling better communication, data sharing, monitoring, and public participation. From global organizations like UNEP to national bodies like MoEFCC and CPCB, online systems have transformed environmental governance. Emerging technologies such as IoT further enhance our capacity to track, predict, and respond to environmental challenges efficiently. As digital infrastructure evolves, it is essential to ensure equitable access, robust cybersecurity, and integration with sustainability goals.

13.6 Keywords

  • Internet of Things (IoT): A system of interconnected devices that collect and share environmental data.
  • Environmental Monitoring: Use of tools and systems to track environmental parameters like air and water quality.
  • UNEP: United Nations Environment Programme – coordinates global environmental activities.
  • MoEFCC: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change – India’s nodal agency for environmental governance.
  • CPCB: Central Pollution Control Board – monitors pollution and enforces environmental laws in India.
  • SPCBs: State Pollution Control Boards – implement environmental laws at the state level.
  • Remote Sensing: Technique to observe Earth’s surface using satellite imagery.
  • GIS: Geographic Information System – for spatial analysis and environmental mapping.
  • Disaster Management: Preparedness and response activities aided by internet tools and digital platforms.
  • ENVIS: Environmental Information System – a decentralized platform to spread environmental awareness and information.

 

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