Question

According to Environmental (Protection) Act of 1986 "environmental pollutant" means

• A. any solid, liquid or gaseous substance present in such concentration as may be, or tend to be, injurious to environment;
• B. any substance present in such concentration as may be, or tend to be, injurious to environment
• C. any solid, liquid or gaseous substance present in such concentration as may be, or tend to be, injurious to a person
• D. any solid, liquid or gaseous substance present in such concentration as may be, or tend to be, injurious to the society

Hint:

When studying any statute, pay close attention to the 'Definitions' section (usually Section 2). The specific wording of definitions is crucial as it clarifies the scope and meaning of key terms used throughout the Act and is a common source for questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the specific definition of the term "environmental pollutant" as provided in the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. This requires knowledge of the definitions section of the statute.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The relevant statutory provision is Section 2(b) of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Section 2(b): `"environmental pollutant" means any solid, liquid or gaseous substance present in such concentration as may be, or tend to be, injurious to environment;`
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Comparing the definition from the Act with the given options:
- Option (A) is an exact match of the definition provided in Section 2(b) of the Act.
- Option (B) is similar but less precise as it omits the form of the substance (solid, liquid, or gaseous).
- Option (C) and (D) are incorrect because they limit the injurious effect to a "person" or "society," whereas the Act uses the much broader term "environment." The environment itself includes water, air, land, and the interrelationship which exists among and between water, air and land, and human beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-organism and property. So, injury to the environment is a much wider concept.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The definition that correctly reflects the text of the Act is option (A).