The Claims Over the Environment and Its Resources: The Fierce Struggle

By Sakshi Gopal, (B.A. LL.B. Hons.), National University of Study

  and Research in Law, Ranchi.

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Abstract

The Earth, once a source of peace that provided soil, water, forests, and air for civilizations to flourish, has now become a battleground for intense disputes over natural resources. Ecosystems are disrupted, rivers dammed, mountains reduced to rubble, and forests destroyed—marking a stark departure from what was once a cooperative relationship between humans and nature. This study delves into the moral dilemmas, complex legal issues, and profound human costs associated with these conflicts. It raises pressing questions: Who truly owns these resources—governments, corporations, indigenous communities, or perhaps the natural world itself? And more critically, can these resources survive humanity’s insatiable greed?

The stakes are high. Vulnerable communities and voiceless ecosystems bear the brunt of destruction, while powerful interests pursue unchecked economic growth. Yet, resistance is rising. In defense of sacred lands and a sustainable future, activists, indigenous groups, and ordinary citizens are risking their lives. This study examines international treaties, landmark case studies, and evolving legal frameworks to explore whether a balance can be struck between environmental preservation and economic development. By analyzing the ecological and societal consequences of resource-related conflicts, it aims to offer equitable, sustainability-centered solutions. Ultimately, this work underscores the urgent need for a renewed harmony between humans and nature—before nature responds through droughts, floods, and the escalating crisis of global warming.

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