Ethical Implications of Environmental Policies and Practices

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the ethical implications of environmental policies and practices.

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive's time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the ethical implications of environmental policies and practices. Preliminary empirical review revealed that environmental decision-making is complex, involving trade-offs between competing values. It emphasized the importance of incorporating principles of justice and equity into governance processes, recognizing the disproportionate impact of environmental degradation on marginalized communities. The study identified gaps and shortcomings in current policies, highlighting the need for enhanced accountability and inclusivity. It advocated for a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to environmental governance, involving collaboration across diverse stakeholders to develop more effective and morally defensible strategies for addressing environmental challenges.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Environmental Justice theory, Ethical Decision- Making theory and Sustainability theory may be used to anchor future studies on the ethical implications of environmental policies and practices. The study made several recommendations, contributing to theory, practice, and policy. It recommended integrating ethical frameworks into policy development, strengthening community engagement, promoting environmental justice and equity, enhancing transparency and accountability, implementing ethical education and training, and fostering international cooperation. These recommendations aimed to ensure that environmental policies reflected ethical considerations, empowered communities, addressed systemic inequalities, promoted democratic governance, enhanced ethical awareness, and facilitated collaborative solutions to global environmental challenges.

Keywords: Ethical Implications, Environmental Policies, Sustainability, Environmental Justice, Equity, Community Engagement, Transparency, Accountability, Policy Development, Participatory Governance, Democratic Deliberation, Environmental Inequalities, Ethical Frameworks, Education And Training, International Cooperation, Solidarity, Stakeholders, Decision-Making Processes, Global Environmental Challenges