Author: Dr. Santanu Biswas
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/03060034
Abstract: Environmental policies play a critical role in addressing challenges such as pollution, climate change, and natural resource depletion. This article examined the social impacts of environmental policies, highlighting both successes and failures from global and national perspectives. Case studies revealed that policies promoting air quality improvement in Europe and community-based forest management in Nepal successfully enhanced public health, supported sustainable livelihoods, and strengthened social cohesion. Conversely, initiatives such as conservation-induced displacement in Madagascar, urban-biased regulations in the United States, and poorly enforced fisheries policies in Indonesia led to unintended negative outcomes, particularly for marginalized and rural populations. Analysis indicated that the successes were associated with effective implementation, stakeholder participation, and scientific grounding, whereas failures resulted from inadequate consultation, weak enforcement, and socio-economic barriers. The discussion emphasized the trade-offs between environmental objectives and social equity, highlighting lessons for future policymaking. Recommendations included designing policies with social inclusivity, ensuring transparency and adaptive management, and conducting ongoing evaluation of social outcomes alongside ecological goals. Overall, integrating social considerations into environmental policymaking emerged as essential for achieving sustainable and equitable outcomes.
Keywords: Environmental Policies, Social Impacts, Sustainability, Public Health, Community Participation, Equity, Policy Evaluation.
Page No: 291-300