Central Pollution Control Board
GS II: Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodiesity
Overview
- The bodies established by acts passed by the Parliamentary houses are known as statutory bodies.
- The government, on the other hand, usually creates regulatory agencies.
- They are able to enact rules.
- Additionally, non-judicial entities having certain judicial rights are known as quasi-judicial organisations.
About Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization.
- It is under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) of the Government of India.
- It was established in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974,
- Later expanded to include air pollution control functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
The primary mandate of the Central Pollution Control Board is to promote and implement environmental laws and policies related to pollution control in India. It plays a crucial role in coordinating and monitoring pollution control activities across the country.
Key functions and responsibilities of the Central Pollution Control Board include:
- Air and Water Quality Monitoring: The CPCB is responsible for monitoring and assessing air and water quality across various locations in India. It establishes and operates a network of monitoring stations to measure pollutants and identify pollution hotspots.
- Pollution Control Standards: The CPCB formulates and revises standards and guidelines for the prevention, control, and abatement of pollution. These standards serve as the basis for regulating emissions and effluents from industries and other sources.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): The CPCB evaluates and reviews environmental impact assessments for various development projects to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and minimize adverse impacts on the environment.
- Waste Management: It plays a role in the management and disposal of hazardous and solid waste. It promotes waste reduction, recycling, and safe disposal practices.
- Environmental Awareness and Capacity Building: The CPCB conducts awareness programs, workshops, and training sessions to educate stakeholders about environmental issues and pollution control measures.
- Environmental Enforcement: The CPCB has the authority to issue directions and take enforcement actions against industries and entities violating pollution control norms. It can recommend closure or prosecution of non-compliant facilities.
- Research and Development: The CPCB engages in research and studies related to pollution control technologies, best practices, and emerging environmental challenges.
- International Cooperation: The CPCB collaborates with international organizations and agencies on matters related to environmental protection and pollution control.
The CPCB works in coordination with State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) in different states and union territories to implement pollution control measures effectively at the regional and local levels.
Overall, the Central Pollution Control Board plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the environment and public health by addressing pollution-related issues and promoting sustainable development practices in India.
Daily Current Affairs : Click Here