“Global warming and climate change are the outcomes of human greed in the name of development, indicating the direction in which extinction of organisms including human beings is heading towards loss of life on Earth. How do you put an end to this to protect life and bring equilibrium between society and the environment?” (2024, 10 Marks)

Paper	GS Paper 4
Word Limit	150 words
Syllabus Topic	Ethics – Environmental ethics and human values

Model Answer

The IPCC says human activity has unequivocally warmed the planet. Gandhi said the earth provides enough for every man’s need, but not for every man’s greed. Unlimited consumption in the name of development is now threatening all life.

Why Greed Is the Root

• Profit and comfort are placed above the rights of nature and future generations.
• Costs fall on the poor and voiceless species – a failure of climate justice.

How to End It

• Individual: Mindful consumption under Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). The Upanishadic idea “tena tyaktena bhunjitha” – enjoy through renunciation.
• Society: Learn from community models like the Chipko movement.
• State: Fulfil the duty under Article 48A; citizens follow Article 51A(g). Pursue net zero by 2070 and the Green Credit Programme.
• Business: Green accounting and the polluter-pays principle.
• Global: Intergenerational equity and common but differentiated responsibilities.

Conclusion

Development must move from greed to need. When we treat nature as family – Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – society and environment can live in balance.

Related PYQs

• What is meant by ‘environmental ethics’ ? Why is it important to study ? Discuss any one environmental issue from the viewpoint of environmental ethics. (2015)
• Keeping the national security in mind, examine the ethical dilemmas related to controversies over environmental clearance of development projects in ecologically sensitive border areas in the country. (2025)
• Achieving sustainable growth with emphasis on environmental protection could come into conflict with poor people’s needs in a country like India – Comment. (2025)