What is Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZ)?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
ESZs are defined under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
- 2.
The extent of ESZ can vary, but is generally up to 10 km around the protected area.
- 3.
Activities prohibited in ESZs include mining, quarrying, construction of major infrastructure projects, and polluting industries.
- 4.
Regulated activities include agriculture, tourism, and small-scale industries.
- 5.
The purpose is to minimize the impact of human activities on the protected area.
- 6.
State governments are responsible for identifying and managing ESZs.
- 7.
The MoEFCC provides guidelines and monitors the implementation of ESZ regulations.
- 8.
ESZs aim to create a buffer zone to prevent ecological damage to protected areas.
- 9.
Local communities are involved in the management and conservation of ESZs.
- 10.
ESZs promote sustainable development practices in the surrounding areas.
Visual Insights
Evolution of Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZs)
Timeline showing the key events and developments related to the concept of Ecologically Sensitive Zones in India.
The concept of ESZs evolved from the need to protect areas around protected areas and minimize human-animal conflict. The Environment Protection Act, 1986 provides the legal framework for ESZs.
- 1972Wildlife Protection Act enacted.
- 1986Environment Protection Act enacted.
- 2002National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016) emphasizes protecting areas outside protected areas.
- 2006EIA Notification, 2006 mandates environmental clearances for projects.
- 2011Gadgil Report on Western Ghats submitted, recommending ESZs.
- 2013Kasturirangan Committee report submitted, proposing a different approach to ESZs in Western Ghats.
- 2018Ongoing debates and court cases regarding ESZ implementation around protected areas.
- 2024MoEFCC issues revised guidelines for ESZ implementation.
- 2026Continued discussions on balancing environmental protection and economic development in ESZs.
Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZ) - Concept Map
Mind map illustrating the key aspects and related concepts of Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZs).
Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZ)
- ●Definition & Purpose
- ●Legal Framework
- ●Key Provisions
- ●Recent Developments
Recent Developments
5 developmentsRecent debates on the extent and implementation of ESZs around various protected areas.
Concerns raised by local communities about the impact of ESZ regulations on their livelihoods.
Court cases challenging the validity and implementation of ESZ notifications.
Government efforts to balance environmental protection with economic development in ESZs.
Revised guidelines issued by the MoEFCC to address concerns about ESZ implementation.