Madhav Gadgil Receives UN's Champions of the Earth Award

Renowned ecologist Madhav Gadgil has been awarded the United Nations’ Champions of the Earth, the highest environmental honour, for his groundbreaking work in the Western Ghats, one of the world’s most significant biodiversity hotspots. Gadgil is the only Indian recipient of the award this year.

Pioneer of Environmental Advocacy

Gadgil chaired the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), which was tasked with studying the impact of population pressure, climate change, and development activities on the ecologically sensitive region. In 2011, the panel recommended designating the entire hill range as an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) and dividing it into three Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZ 1, 2, and 3) based on environmental sensitivity.

The recommendations included:

• A ban on mining, quarrying, new thermal power plants, and large-scale energy projects in ESZ 1.
• Measures to promote sustainable development and conservation across the region.

Despite opposition from state governments, industries, and local communities, Gadgil stood firm on the panel’s findings, advocating for environmental protection aligned with the Indian Constitution.

Gadgil's Perspective

In an interview, the 82-year-old scientist said, "I feel happy for standing up and writing such an honest report. It’s available for people to look at, understand, and engage in meaningful discussions."

Reflecting on his work, Gadgil emphasized the importance of transparency and public awareness:
"The gap between the haves and have-nots in accessing information is narrowing. People are becoming more aware and organized to resist environmental degradation."

Legacy and Challenges

In 2012, UNESCO declared the Western Ghats a World Heritage Site, recognizing its ecological importance. However, progress on protecting the region has been slow:

• A 2013 High-Level Working Group, led by K Kasturirangan, identified 37% of the Western Ghats as ecologically sensitive.
• Despite repeated draft notifications, a final decision to protect the area remains pending, with ongoing discussions between the central government and states.

Gadgil’s work has been instrumental in raising awareness about the ecological fragility of the Western Ghats and the need for sustainable development practices.

Moving Forward

As environmental degradation continues to pose challenges, Gadgil remains optimistic:
"Eventually, it will be people's awareness and ability to organize that will turn the tide. I believe I have played a decent role in bringing this awareness."

The Champions of the Earth Award celebrates Gadgil’s lifelong dedication to preserving India’s natural heritage and advocating for environmental justice.