What is Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZs)?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
Legal Basis: Declared under Section 3(2)(v) of the Environment Protection Act 1986 and Rule 5(1) of the Environment (Protection) Rules 1986.
- 2.
Purpose: To create a 'shock absorber' or transition zone around Protected Areas, reducing the impact of developmental activities and enhancing conservation.
- 3.
Extent: Typically extend up to 10 km around Protected Areas, though the extent can vary based on ecological sensitivity and local context.
- 4.
Prohibited Activities: Include commercial mining, setting up of polluting industries, major hydroelectric projects, establishment of sawmills, discharge of untreated effluents, and commercial use of firewood.
- 5.
Regulated Activities: Include felling of trees, establishment of hotels/resorts, natural gas production, non-polluting industries, construction activities, and tourism, requiring prior permission and environmental clearance.
- 6.
Permitted Activities: Organic farming, use of renewable energy sources, rain-water harvesting, adoption of green technology, and existing agricultural practices.
- 7.
Zonal Master Plan: Each ESZ requires a Zonal Master Plan to be prepared by the State Government, integrating conservation and development, and approved by the MoEFCC.
- 8.
Monitoring Committee: A Monitoring Committee is constituted at the district level to oversee the implementation of the Zonal Master Plan and monitor compliance.
- 9.
Role of EPA 1986: Provides comprehensive powers to the Central Government to take measures for environmental protection, including setting standards, restricting industrial operations, and inspecting sites.
- 10.
Identification Criteria: Based on factors like species endemism, rarity, ecological fragility, geomorphological features, and biological richness.
Visual Insights
ESZ Declaration and Management Process
This flowchart illustrates the step-by-step process for the declaration and management of Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZs) in India, highlighting the roles of various governmental bodies and public participation.
- 1.MoEFCC Identifies Area & Proposes ESZ
- 2.Draft Notification Issued (under EPA 1986)
- 3.Public Consultation & Stakeholder Feedback (60 days)
- 4.Review of Objections/Suggestions by MoEFCC
- 5.Final Notification Published by MoEFCC
- 6.State Govt. Prepares Zonal Master Plan (ZMP)
- 7.ZMP Approved by MoEFCC
- 8.Monitoring Committee Constituted (District Level)
- 9.Implementation & Monitoring of ZMP
Activities in Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZs)
This table categorizes various activities within ESZs into prohibited, regulated, and permitted, providing a clear understanding of the restrictions and allowances aimed at balancing conservation with local livelihoods.
| Activity Type | Prohibited Activities | Regulated Activities | Permitted Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial/Commercial | Commercial Mining, Polluting Industries, Major Hydroelectric Projects, Sawmills, Untreated Effluent Discharge | Non-polluting Industries, Establishment of Hotels/Resorts, Natural Gas Production | Small-scale industries (non-polluting), Cottage industries |
| Land Use/Construction | New Commercial Construction (large scale), Conversion of agricultural land to commercial | Felling of Trees, Construction activities (with prior permission), Infrastructure development (roads, power lines) | Existing agricultural/horticultural practices, Rain-water harvesting, Adoption of green technology |
| Resource Extraction | Commercial use of firewood, Sand mining (commercial) | Extraction of groundwater (regulated), Collection of minor forest produce (sustainable) | Organic farming, Use of renewable energy sources |
| Tourism/Local | Large-scale tourism infrastructure (e.g., theme parks) | Tourism activities (regulated, eco-tourism), Local community activities | Existing local livelihoods, Promotion of eco-friendly tourism |
Recent Developments
5 developmentsOngoing debate on the extent of ESZs, particularly concerning human settlements and development needs.
Supreme Court directives on mandatory ESZs around Protected Areas, leading to increased notifications.
Challenges in implementing Zonal Master Plans and ensuring effective monitoring by state governments.
Increased focus on identifying and protecting other ecologically sensitive areas beyond Protected Areas, such as parts of the Western Ghats and Aravallis.
The current news highlights the judiciary's role in enforcing protection in such sensitive areas, even if not formally notified as ESZs under the 10 km rule.