The recently launched State of India’s Environment report 2023 provides a comprehensive view of the country’s environmental scenario. Compiled by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and Down to Earth (DTE) magazine, the report covers diverse domains including climate change, agriculture, industry, water, plastics, forests, and biodiversity. An annual publication, it brings together facts and assessments related to various aspects such as climate change, migration, health, food systems, pollution and waste, among others.
About CSE
CSE is a New Delhi-based public interest research and advocacy organisation. Committed to advancing environmental sustainability, it plays an instrumental role in bringing critical environmental issues to the forefront.
Main Findings of the Report
Encroachment: The report highlights that over 30,000 water bodies across India have been encroached upon. Furthermore, the country generates roughly 150,000 tonnes of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) daily, more than half of which gets dumped into landfills or remains unaddressed.
The Impact of Air Pollution
Underscoring the grave impact of air pollution, the report reveals that Indians lose, on average, four years and eleven months from their lifespan due to this issue. Interestingly, rural India suffers more due to air pollution-related health problems compared to urban areas.
Rising Environmental Crimes
Environmental crimes continue to be a major concern. To clear the backlog, courts need to address 245 cases every day.
Weather Extremes
India experienced extreme weather events on 271 days between January and October 2022, claiming over 2,900 lives.
India’s performance on SDGs
In terms of the UN-mandated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), India’s global rank has dropped by nine places over the past five years, standing at 121 in 2022. The country faces challenges in achieving 11 out of 17 SDGs.
Managing Plastic Waste
Despite the massive problem of plastic waste, cities are becoming more responsible by segregating waste at source, minimising plastic usage, and reusing and reprocessing waste into resources.
Progress in Agriculture
In the realm of agriculture, there is growing evidence supporting traditional and regenerative farming methods. Although deforestation remains a persistent issue, more communities are demanding, and receiving, rights over forests.
Report Recommendations
The report emphasizes the need for a common minimum programme that unites all countries on crucial issues: averting the existential crisis we face today and building a just, inclusive world order. The proposed pandemic treaty is pointed out as a significant step in this direction.