Renowned Indian ecologist Madhav Gadgil has been honoured as one of six ‘Champions of the Earth’ by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for 2024. This prestigious accolade, the UN’s highest environmental honour, recognises trailblazers who are at the forefront of efforts to protect people and the planet.
A Lifetime of Achievement
Gadgil has been recognised in the ‘lifetime achievement’ category by UNEP as a testament to his decades-long commitment to environmental conservation and research. His career, spanning over six decades, has taken him from Harvard University to the highest echelons of India’s government, always maintaining his self-described role as a ‘people’s scientist’.
Throughout his illustrious career, Gadgil has made significant contributions to protecting marginalized communities, promoting community-driven conservation of ecosystems, and influencing high-level policymaking. His work has encompassed a wide range of environments, from forests to wetlands, demonstrating the breadth of his expertise and impact.
The Gadgil Report
One of Gadgil’s most notable contributions is the landmark ‘Gadgil Report,’ which called for the protection of India’s ecologically fragile Western Ghats mountain range. This work highlighted the growing threats to this region from industry and the climate crisis, emphasising the need for immediate action.
The Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel, chaired by Gadgil in 2011, recommended that 75% of the 129,037 sq km area of the Western Ghats be declared environmentally sensitive. This recommendation was based on the region’s dense forests and the presence of numerous endemic species. While controversial and deemed too restrictive by some states, this report has been instrumental in shaping the conversation around environmental protection in India.
However, Gadgil’s work extends far beyond his academic achievements. He has authored seven books and at least 225 scientific papers, contributing significantly to the field of ecology and environmental science. His research has not only advanced scientific understanding but has also had tangible impacts on policy and community engagement.
One of Gadgil’s most rewarding experiences has been working with gram sabhas (village councils) in areas granted community forest rights. He has helped these communities gain knowledge about their resources and provided technical input for information gathering, exemplifying his commitment to being a ‘people’s scientist’.
Ongoing Challenges and Future Hopes
Despite the recognition of Gadgil’s work, many of his recommendations are yet to be fully implemented. For instance, the eco-sensitive areas along the Western Ghats have not been notified by the Centre, 13 years after the initial demarcation was recommended. This delay highlights the ongoing challenges in translating scientific recommendations into policy actions.
However, Gadgil remains optimistic about the future. He hopes that increased public awareness and organization will build pressure for the implementation of recommendations that benefit the larger population. In the era of improved communication, he believes this collective action is increasingly possible.
A Global Perspective
The recognition of Gadgil and his fellow Champions of the Earth comes at a critical time for global environmental conservation. As Inger Andersen, executive director of UNEP, points out, nearly 40% of the world’s land is already degraded, with desertification and devastating droughts becoming more frequent. However, the efforts of individuals like Gadgil demonstrate that solutions exist and that it is possible to defend and heal our planet.
In conclusion, Madhav Gadgil’s recognition as a Champion of the Earth not only honors his lifetime of work but also serves as an inspiration for current and future generations of environmental advocates. His commitment to being a ‘people’s scientist,’ his influential research, and his unwavering optimism in the face of challenges exemplify the kind of leadership needed to address the pressing environmental issues of our time.
