Law and regulation of wastes and wastewater: Indian perspective

Abstract

The United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, 1972, declared environment of quality is the basic right of human being. It laid emphasis on protection and improvement of environment for inter- and intra-generational equity. India as a participatory nation by the 42nd amendment of the constitution incorporated provisions under Art. 48A and Art. 51A (g) for protection and improvement of natural environment. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, is the elaborate text of such constitutional mandate. The Act has made provisions for creation of institutions to shape an environmentally sound future. Consequently, by considering alarming effects of wastes solid, liquid or e-waste - on environment, various rules are framed by the Central Government for the establishment of regulatory authorities to manage the situation. Present study covers the enforceability of such laws and rules to achieve the end, i.e. salubrious environment for all.