MEVE 017: Unit 07 - Eco-Social Movements

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UNIT 7: ECO-SOCIAL MOVEMENTS

7.0 Introduction

Eco-social movements are collective efforts by people who come together to protect the environment and fight for social justice at the same time. These movements are not just about saving trees or cleaning rivers—they also stand for the rights of people, especially those who are poor, marginalised, or affected by environmental damage. Eco-social movements bring together ecological concerns and social issues like caste, class, gender, and labour rights.

7.1 Objectives

This unit will help you:

  • Understand the meaning and importance of eco-social movements
  • Learn about local and global movements that protect both environment and people
  • Explore how different social groups such as workers, Dalits, and women participate in these movements
  • Recognise the role of civil society and famous environmental pioneers

7.2 Eco-Social Movements

Eco-social movements aim to bring both ecological protection and social equality. These movements often arise when large development projects, pollution, or industrial activities threaten nature and local communities. Many of these movements in India have focused on saving forests, rivers, and land while also fighting for human rights, justice, and dignity.

7.2.1 Ecological Movement

An ecological movement focuses mainly on protecting the environment. Examples include the Chipko Movement, where people hugged trees to stop deforestation, and the Save Silent Valley Movement, which aimed to protect a forest from a dam project. These movements show how ordinary people can protect natural resources through peaceful protest.

7.2.2 Local and Global Movements

Some eco-social movements are local, fighting for specific forests, rivers, or villages. Others are global, raising awareness about issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and plastic pollution. Movements like Fridays for Future (led by Greta Thunberg) show how young people worldwide are demanding climate action. Both local and global efforts are important in the fight for a healthier planet.

7.2.3 Labour Movement

The labour movement fights for the rights of workers, especially those working in unsafe or polluting industries. Many workers suffer from health problems due to exposure to chemicals or poor working conditions. Labour unions often join eco-social movements to demand safe jobs, clean environments, and fair wages.

7.2.4 Dalit Movement

The Dalit movement raises the voice of those who have historically been oppressed in the caste system. Dalits are often the worst affected by environmental damage—they live near polluted areas, lack access to clean water, and suffer displacement during big projects. Their involvement in eco-social movements highlights the need for environmental justice, where no group is unfairly burdened.

7.2.5 Women’s Movement

Women, especially in rural areas, are closely connected to nature. They gather water, fuel, and food for their families. When forests are cut or rivers dry up, their daily lives are directly affected. The women’s movement has played a strong role in many eco-social struggles. In the Chipko Movement, for example, it was mostly women who stood up to protect the trees. These movements show how women are powerful protectors of nature.

7.2.6 Civil Society Movements

Civil society includes NGOs, community groups, environmental activists, students, and concerned citizens. These groups often lead eco-social movements by organizing protests, spreading awareness, filing petitions, and engaging with the government. Their efforts help create pressure for sustainable policies and responsible development.

7.2.7 Pioneers in Environment Conservation

India has seen many pioneers—leaders who have worked selflessly for the environment. Some well-known names include:

  • Sunderlal Bahuguna – leader of the Chipko Movement
  • Medha Patkar – leader of the Narmada Bachao Andolan, which opposed big dams and displacement
  • Vandana Shiva – an environmentalist and writer who promotes organic farming and biodiversity
    These pioneers have inspired people to act and helped shape environmental awareness in India and beyond.

7.3 Let Us Sum Up

Eco-social movements show how environment and society are deeply connected. They bring together different sections of people—workers, Dalits, women, students, and civil society—who stand up for nature and justice. From protecting forests and rivers to fighting pollution and unfair development, these movements are powerful examples of people’s voice in protecting both the Earth and their rights. Learning about these movements helps us understand the importance of sustainable development, equality, and community participation in building a better future.

 

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