For almost two decades, this book has been considered the most reliable textbook on the subject for all undergraduate students. This fourth edition has been revised as per the new syllabus (2023) set down by the UGC (along the NEP guidelines) and has been made extremely user-friendly. The aim of this book is not only to create an awareness of environmental issues, but also to bring about pro-environmental action.

Salient features

• Tailored precisely to the latest 2023 curriculum set down by the UGC.
• Colour plates showing the biogeographical zones, and various species of flora and fauna, add value to Unit 4.
• Questions that induce reflection and follow-up action are highlighted in boxes and provide a thought-provoking feature.
• The thread of ‘sustainable living’ runs through the entire book, thus awakening the students to reality and suggests solutions for commonly encountered environmental issues.
• Unit 9 has been thoroughly revamped to include practicals, outreach activities as well as case studies relevant to each unit.

Dr Erach Bharucha is Director, Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Environment Education and Research, Pune. He has been engaged actively in implementing a variety of environmental education programmes for schools and colleges. He has been associated with the NCERT, SCERT and UGC to further the cause of formal environmental education and is a passionate crusader for the well-being of the environment.

Foreword to the Fourth Edition
Foreword to the First Edition
Preface to the Fourth Edition
Preface to the First Edition
Acknowledgements
How to Use the Textbook and QR Section
Syllabus mapping

1. Humans and the Environment
2. Natural Resources and Sustainable Development
3. Environmental Issues—Local, Regional, Global
4. Conservation of Biodiversity and Ecosystems
5. Environmental Pollution and Health
6. Climate Change: Impacts, Adaptation and Mitigation
7. Environment Management
8. Environmental Treaties and Legislation
9. Case Studies and Field Work

Index