GS Paper 3
Topics Covered: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
Context:
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in its pursuit of “Sustainable Development” of the coastal regions of India embarked upon a highly acclaimed & flagship program Beach Environment & Aesthetics Management Services (BEAMS).
What is it?
- BEAMS is one of the initiatives under ‘Integrated coastal zone management’ (ICZM) approach that the MoEF&CC has undertaken for the sustainable development of coastal regions of India.
- The prime objective of ICZM approach is to protect and conserve the pristine coastal and marine ecosystems through holistic management of the resources.
The objective of BEAMS program is:
- To abate pollution in coastal waters,
- Promote sustainable development of beach facilities,
- Protect & conserve coastal ecosystems & natural resources, and
- Seriously challenge local authorities & stakeholders to strive and maintain high standards of cleanliness,
- Hygiene & safety for beachgoers in accordance with coastal environment & regulations.
What is ICZM Project?
Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) aims to improve livelihood of coastal communities and conserve the coastal ecosystem.
- It is a World Bank assisted project.
- The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM), Chennai, will provide scientific and technical inputs.
- The concept of ICZM was born in 1992 during the Earth Summit of Rio de Janeiro.
Sources: PIB.