UNIT-5

Environmental Ethics
and
Disaster Management
Environmental Ethics

• A branch of philosophy concerned with the moral principles and values that guide human interactions

with the natural world.

• It explores questions about the intrinsic value of nature, the ethical obligations humans have towards

the environment, and the moral responsibilities associated with environmental sustainability.

• Environmental ethics is a critical reflection of what humans should do in the face of moral choices

related to environmental issues, including moral choices in meeting the needs of human and other life

which impact the environment.

 Basic Principles of Environmental Ethics
Sufficiency and Compassion:
Justice and Sustainability:
• According to the sufficiency principle, all living things must have

• Inequitable access to environmental resources is a access to enough resources to survive and thrive.

concern of environmental justice (clean food, air, • No one should waste or hoard resources meant for everyone's

and water). sufficiency.

• Concern for the well-being of animals is motivated • It serves as the foundation for empathy.

by the idea of fairness. • The idea of sufficiency is expanded by compassion to include the

planet.
• The ability of future generations to meet their own
• Humans have a duty to take action to ensure that the requirements
requirements must not be compromised in order to
of other creatures, plants, and the elements (such as water, soil, or
satisfy the wants of the current generation
air) are met.
(Sustainability).
Contd…

Solidarity and Participation:

• The idea of solidarity/ harmony challenges us to think about how we interact with one another in the

neighborhood.

• In order to be in a position of solidarity, we must take into account this type of larger community and

behave in a way that demonstrates our concern for the welfare of others.

• Solidarity is made more concrete through participation.

• The ethical concept of participation calls for us to acknowledge all parties, both human and non-human,

who may be impacted by a decision and to acknowledge that each party has a right to participate in the

process of making the decision.

Animal Welfare –
• Humane Treatment: Ensures animals are treated with kindness and compassion, minimizing pain, suffering, and distress.

• Well-being: Focuses on providing animals with proper living conditions, including adequate space, shelter, and enrichment.

• Health and Nutrition: Ensures animals receive appropriate nutrition and medical care to maintain their health.

• Regulated Use: Accepts the use of animals for purposes such as food, research, and entertainment, provided it is done
under strict humane regulations.

• Ethical Responsibility: Emphasizes the moral obligation to treat animals with respect and to safeguard their welfare in all
human interactions.

Animal Rights –
• Intrinsic Value: Animals have inherent worth and should be respected as individuals with their own rights.

• Opposition to Exploitation: Animals should not be used for human purposes such as food, clothing, research, or
entertainment.

• Legal Recognition: Advocates for laws that grant animals legal rights and protect them from exploitation and harm.

• Moral Consideration: Emphasizes that animals deserve moral consideration similar to that given to humans.

• Abolition of Use: Seeks to end all practices that treat animals as property or resources for human use.
 Animal Welfare vs Animal Rights
Basis of
Difference Animal Welfare Animal Rights
Definition Focuses on the humane treatment and well-being of animals. Advocates for the fundamental rights of animals, often
opposing their use by humans for any purpose.
Philosophical Utilitarianism – seeks to minimize suffering and maximize Deontological ethics – animals have inherent rights
Basis well-being. similar to human rights.
Ensuring animals are not used as resources, recognizing
Primary Concern Reducing pain, suffering, and ensuring humane conditions. their intrinsic value.
Examples of Focus Improved living conditions, humane slaughter practices, Abolition of animal testing, ending factory farming,
Areas regulated testing procedures. banning animals in entertainment.
Legislation Supports laws and regulations that ensure humane treatment Supports laws that recognize animal rights and prohibit
Support (e.g., Animal Welfare Act). their use (e.g., bans on animal circuses).

Organizations American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA),
(ASPCA), Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). Animal Liberation Front (ALF).

Advocacy Campaigns for better living conditions, legislative changes, Campaigns for the abolition of practices involving animal
Methods public education. use, legal rights for animals, direct action protests.
 Deep Ecology
A philosophical and environmental movement that emphasizes the inherent worth of all
living beings, regardless of their utility to human needs.

• Intrinsic Value: Proposes that all living beings, ecosystems, and • Sustainability: Calls for sustainable living practices that reduce
natural processes have intrinsic value and an inherent right to human impact on the planet, promote biodiversity, and maintain
exist and flourish independently of their utility to humans. the health and integrity of natural ecosystems.

• Holistic View: Emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life • Long-term Perspective: Encourages considering the long-term
forms and the importance of preserving the natural environment impacts of human actions on the environment, promoting
in its entirety, including its complex web of relationships and policies and practices that ensure the well-being of future
processes. generations of all species.

• Radical Change: Advocates for profound and fundamental

changes in human society, attitudes, and behaviors to align with
ecological principles, moving away from anthropocentric
(human-centered) views towards a more eco-centric (ecosystem-
centered) perspective.
 Ecofeminism
A movement and theoretical approach that connects the treatment of women with the treatment of the environment. It emphasizes how
the oppression of women and the degradation of nature are linked and seeks to address both issues simultaneously.

• Interconnectedness: Ecofeminism shows how harming the environment and treating women unfairly are often connected, typically due
to the same social systems like patriarchy and capitalism.

• Gender and Nature: It looks at how traditional views about men and women contribute to environmental problems and values the
roles women play in caring for the earth.

• Holistic Perspective: It promotes seeing the world as interconnected, valuing cooperation and diversity instead of separating humans
from nature and men from women.

• Social Justice: Ecofeminism fights for fairness and justice, arguing that environmental problems are also social problems, and supports
the empowerment of women.

• Activism and Practice: It encourages people to take action locally, combining environmental and feminist ideas to build fair and
sustainable communities.
 Types of Ecofeminism
1. Liberal Ecofeminism:
 Focuses on achieving gender equality within existing social and political structures.
® Advocates for women's participation in environmental decision-making and policy formulation.
2. Cultural/Spiritual Ecofeminism:
® Emphasizes the spiritual and cultural connections between women and nature.
® Celebrates women's traditional roles as caregivers and nurturers, often drawing on indigenous and pagan traditions.
3. Social/Socialist Ecofeminism:
® Links the oppression of women and environmental degradation to capitalist and patriarchal systems.
® Advocates for a radical restructuring of society to achieve both gender equality and environmental sustainability.
4. Radical Ecofeminism:
® Focuses on the deep connections between patriarchy and environmental destruction.
® Calls for fundamental changes in how society views and interacts with the natural world, promoting a more harmonious
relationship.
5. Materialist Ecofeminism:
® Examines the material conditions and economic factors that contribute to the exploitation of both women and the environment.
® Emphasizes the need to address economic inequalities and support sustainable practices.
6. Postcolonial Ecofeminism:
® Highlights the impact of colonialism on both women and the environment, particularly in the Global South.
® Advocates for decolonization and the recognition of indigenous knowledge and practices.
 Guiding Principles of Environmental
Ethics
Some guiding principles of environmental ethics govern the attitude and behavior of human beings in their interaction
with the environment. These principles are the principle of no harm, no interference, loyalty, and justice:

• The principle of no harm states that no harm be done to the environment; that humans not destroy species or
biotic communities.

• The principle of no interference states not to impose barriers to the freedom of organisms, namely freedom to find
food, shelter, and breeding.

• The principle of loyalty states not to trap, deceive, or set obstacles against living things for only the sake of human
interests.

• The principle of justice states to restore what we have damaged or make compensation.
 Environmental Movement
The environmental movement encompasses a range of individuals, organizations, and businesses united by a
common goal: protecting our planet. They advocate for practices that ensure we meet the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs [Brundtland Commission, 1987].

Key Focus Areas:

• Conservation: Protecting ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources.

• Pollution Reduction: Minimizing air, water, and soil pollution caused by human activities.

• Climate Change Mitigation: Addressing the causes and effects of climate change through reduced
greenhouse gas emissions.

• Sustainable Practices: Promoting resource efficiency, renewable energy sources, and responsible waste
management.
 Flood
A flood is an overflow of water that submerges land that is normally dry. It can happen due to various reasons
and can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure.

Causes of Floods:

• Heavy rain: When rain comes down faster than the ground can absorb it or drainage systems can handle,
it can lead to flooding.

• Rising rivers and streams: If the water level in a river or stream exceeds its capacity due to heavy rain,
melting snow, or other factors, it can overflow its banks and flood surrounding areas.

• Storm surges: Coastal areas can experience flooding due to powerful storms pushing ocean water ashore.

• Dam or levee failures: If a dam or levee breaks, the sudden release of a large volume of water can cause
catastrophic flooding.
• Types of Floods:

• Riverine floods: These are the most common type of flood, caused by overflowing rivers and streams.

• Coastal floods: These occur when storm surges or high tides cause seawater to inundate coastal areas.

• Flash floods: These are sudden and violent floods that can rise very quickly, often within minutes or hours, and
can be extremely dangerous.

• Urban floods: These occur in developed areas where heavy rain overwhelms drainage systems, causing
flooding in streets and low-lying areas.

• Impacts of Floods:

• Loss of life and property damage

• Disruption of transportation and communication networks

• Contamination of water supplies

• Damage to agricultural land and crops

• Spread of diseases
 Management of Flood
1. Prevention:
 Land-use planning: Directing development away from floodplains and towards higher ground reduces flood
risks for communities.
 Watershed management: Maintaining healthy vegetation cover in watersheds helps slow down water runoff
and allows for better absorption by the soil. This reduces peak floodwater levels downstream.
 Floodplain management: Regulations can restrict development in floodplains, or mandate flood-resistant
building practices in these areas.
 Structural measures: Building dykes and dams can control river flow and prevent overflows. However, these
require careful planning and maintenance to avoid unintended consequences.
2. Preparedness:
 Early warning systems: Monitoring weather patterns and river levels allows for timely warnings to be issued
to communities in case of potential floods.
 Public awareness campaigns: Educating communities about flood risks, evacuation plans, and safety
measures can minimize panic and loss of life during floods.
 Stockpiling essential supplies: Ensuring access to food, water, and medicine during and after a flood is crucial
for emergency response.
 Floodproofing measures: Raising electrical components, waterproofing basements, and installing backflow
preventers in homes can minimize flood damage to property.
3. Response:
 Emergency evacuation: Having clear evacuation plans and designated shelters plays a vital role in
saving lives during floods.
 Search and rescue operations: Trained personnel are deployed to locate and rescue people
trapped in floodwaters.
 Delivery of essential supplies: Providing food, water, and medical aid to affected communities is
essential during the immediate aftermath of a flood.
4. Recovery:
 Damage assessment: Evaluating the extent of damage to infrastructure, property, and livelihoods
is crucial for directing recovery efforts.
 Financial assistance: Governments and organizations may provide financial aid to individuals and
businesses to rebuild homes and livelihoods.
 Debris removal and infrastructure repair: Clearing debris and repairing damaged roads, bridges,
and other infrastructure is essential for restoring normalcy.
 Mental health support: Floods can have a significant psychological impact on survivors. Providing
mental health support services is crucial for their well-being.
 Earthquake
Earthquakes are a powerful reminder of the Earth's dynamic nature. They are sudden and often violent shaking of
the ground, caused by the release of energy within the Earth's crust. Here's a breakdown of earthquakes, their
causes, impacts, and how we can manage the risks:

Causes of Earthquakes:

• Tectonic Plate Movement: The Earth's crust is made up of massive, rigid plates that are constantly moving.
Earthquakes occur most frequently along the boundaries of these plates, where the immense pressure and
friction cause them to grind past each other, or suddenly shift position.

• Fault Lines: The boundaries between tectonic plates are called fault lines. When these plates move, the stress
can cause the rock along the fault line to break, releasing a burst of energy that travels as seismic waves,
causing the ground to shake.

• Other Causes: While less frequent, earthquakes can also be triggered by volcanic eruptions or the sudden
collapse of large caverns underground.
Impacts of Earthquakes:
• Ground Shaking: This is the primary effect of an earthquake and can cause buildings and
other structures to collapse, leading to loss of life and widespread destruction.
• Ground Rupture: Along fault lines, the shaking can cause the ground itself to crack open,
creating a potentially hazardous surface displacement.
• Landslides: Earthquakes can trigger landslides, especially on slopes where the shaking
loosens the soil and rocks.
• Tsunamis: Powerful underwater earthquakes can generate large waves known as tsunamis,
which can travel long distances and cause immense devastation to coastal areas.
• Fires: Earthquakes can damage electrical lines and gas pipelines, sparking fires that can
further add to the destruction.
Management of Earthquake Risks:

• Earthquake-resistant building codes: Implementing stricter building codes that mandate earthquake-resistant
construction can significantly reduce building collapse and casualties.

• Land-use planning: Avoiding construction of critical infrastructure or densely populated areas on or near fault
lines can minimize risks.

• Public awareness and preparedness: Educating the public about earthquake safety measures, such as the
"drop, cover, and hold" technique, and conducting regular drills can save lives during an earthquake.

• Early warning systems: Developing and deploying early warning systems that can provide crucial seconds of
notice before shaking arrives can allow people to take cover or evacuate.

• Post-earthquake response: Having a well-coordinated response plan for search and rescue, medical aid, and
infrastructure repair is essential for minimizing losses and facilitating recovery.
 Cyclones
Cyclones, also known as hurricanes or typhoons depending on the region, are powerful rotating storm systems that form
over warm ocean waters. They bring heavy rain, destructive winds, and storm surges, posing a significant threat to coastal
communities.

Causes of Cyclones:

• Warm Ocean Temperatures: Cyclones form over warm ocean waters (typically above 26°C) where evaporation is high.
Warm, moist air rises rapidly, creating a low-pressure zone at the surface. This low pressure draws in surrounding air,
creating a cycle of rising air, condensation, and energy release that fuels the storm.

• Coriolis Effect: The Earth's rotation creates a Coriolis effect, which deflects winds circulating around the low-pressure
center. In the Northern Hemisphere, winds curve counter-clockwise, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they curve
clockwise, giving cyclones their characteristic spiral form.

• Atmospheric Instability: Certain atmospheric conditions, such as low wind shear (minimal change in wind direction and
speed with altitude), are necessary for cyclones to develop and intensify.
Impacts of Cyclones:

• Destructive Winds: High wind speeds associated with cyclones can cause widespread damage to
buildings, infrastructure, and power lines.

• Storm Surge: The low pressure and strong winds of a cyclone can cause a rise in sea level along the
coast, leading to devastating flooding in low-lying areas.

• Heavy Rainfall: Cyclones often bring torrential downpours, which can cause flash floods, landslides, and
disrupt transportation.

• Coastal Erosion: The powerful waves and storm surge associated with cyclones can erode beaches and
coastlines, altering landscapes and damaging coastal infrastructure.

• Disruption and Loss of Life: Cyclones can disrupt essential services, damage communication networks,
and displace communities. In severe cases, they can lead to loss of life and widespread devastation.
Management of Cyclone Risks:

• Monitoring and Prediction: Meteorological agencies monitor weather patterns and use sophisticated models to predict cyclone

formation, track their paths, and issue timely warnings.

• Early Warning Systems: Effective early warning systems are crucial for alerting communities about impending cyclones, allowing

them to evacuate to safer locations and take necessary precautions.

• Cyclone Shelters: Building well-designed and strategically located cyclone shelters can provide safe haven for communities during

storms, minimizing casualties.

• Coastal Defenses: Seawalls, dykes, and mangrove restoration projects can help buffer coastal areas from storm surges and minimize

erosion.

• Public Awareness and Preparedness: Educating communities about cyclone risks, evacuation plans, and safety measures is essential

for minimizing panic and ensuring a coordinated response.

• Disaster Preparedness Planning: Developing comprehensive disaster preparedness plans that involve local authorities, emergency

services, and communities is crucial for effective response and post-cyclone recovery.
• Hurricane – In the North Atlantic and Northeast Pacific oceans

• Typhoons – In the Northwest Pacific Ocean

• Tropical cyclone/ severe tropical cyclone/ severe cyclonic storm – In the South Pacific and Indian

oceans.
 Landslides
Landslides are a natural phenomenon involving the movement of a mass of rock, earth, or debris down a slope under the
influence of gravity. While they can occur anywhere with slopes, some areas are more prone to them due to specific geological
and human-induced factors. Here's a breakdown of landslides, their causes, impacts, and strategies for managing the risks:

Causes of Landslides:

1. Natural Causes:

• Heavy Rainfall: Intense or prolonged rainfall can saturate the soil, increasing its weight and decreasing its stability. This
can trigger landslides, especially on steep slopes.

• Earthquakes: Seismic shaking can destabilize slopes, triggering landslides even in areas with relatively dry soil conditions.

• Erosion: Natural processes like weathering and erosion can weaken slopes over time, making them more susceptible to
landslides.

• Volcanic Activity: Volcanic eruptions can trigger landslides due to ground shaking, ash deposition, and changes in water
flow patterns.
2. Human Activities:

• Deforestation: Trees and vegetation play a crucial role in stabilizing slopes by anchoring the soil with their roots.
Removing trees can increase the risk of landslides.

• Improper Land Management: Activities like overloading slopes with heavy structures, inadequate drainage systems, and
poorly planned construction practices can contribute to landslides.

• Road Building: Cutting into slopes for road construction can weaken them and increase the risk of landslides, especially
during heavy rains.

Impacts of Landslides:

• Loss of Life and Property: Landslides can cause widespread destruction, burying houses, buildings, and infrastructure
under tons of debris. This can lead to significant loss of life and property damage.

• Disruption of Transportation: Landslides can block roads and railways, disrupting transportation networks and hindering
access to affected areas.

• Environmental Damage: Landslides can damage forests, pollute water sources with debris, and disrupt ecosystems.

• Economic Costs: The cost of repairing damage caused by landslides, including infrastructure repair, search and rescue
operations, and relocation of affected communities, can be substantial.
Management of Landslide Risks:

• Hazard Mapping: Identifying areas susceptible to landslides through detailed geological surveys and hazard mapping
is crucial for land-use planning and mitigation efforts.

• Early Warning Systems: Developing and implementing early warning systems that monitor rainfall, slope movement,
and other factors can provide valuable time for evacuation in case of an impending landslide.

• Slope Stabilization Techniques: Techniques like retaining walls, drainage improvements, and vegetation reinforcement
can be used to stabilize slopes and reduce the risk of landslides.

• Land-use Planning: Developing regulations and policies that restrict construction or development in high-risk areas
can help minimize landslide risks.

• Public Awareness and Education: Educating communities about the signs of impending landslides and evacuation
procedures is essential for preparedness and minimizing casualties.