Environmental Jurisprudence in Anthropocene: Evaluation of Law in Addressing Impact of Environment Degradation on Economically Disadvantaged Communities

Abstract

The Anthropocene represents a period in which human activities have become a major force influencing the Earth’s ecological systems. Environmental degradation arising from climate change, pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss and resource depletion does not affect all sections of society equally. Economically disadvantaged communities, including rural, tribal, forest-dependent, agricultural and fishing communities, often experience greater environmental burdens because of their dependence on natural resources and their limited capacity to adapt or to obtain effective remedies. This study examines the relationship between environmental degradation and environmental justice in the Indian context. It analyses the constitutional, statutory and judicial framework governing environmental protection, with particular emphasis on Articles 14, 21, 38, 39(b), 48A and 51A(g), on the major environmental legislation, and on principles such as sustainable development, the precautionary principle, polluter pays, public trust and intergenerational equity. The study further evaluates environmental justice through its distributive, procedural and recognition dimensions. Using a doctrinal and analytical methodology, it examines primary and secondary legal sources in order to assess whether existing Indian environmental law adequately protects economically disadvantaged communities. The study finds that although India has developed a substantial environmental legal framework, significant gaps remain between legal recognition and practical protection. Weak implementation, limited participation, inadequate access to remedies, displacement and loss of livelihood continue to produce environmental injustice. The study concludes that Indian environmental law requires a stronger justice-oriented approach that integrates environmental protection with socio-economic equality, livelihood security, meaningful community participation and recognition of vulnerable communities.