Courts Tell Companies: Green Spending is Not Optional
The Supreme Court of India has made a landmark decision. It mandates that companies must allocate funds for environmental protection. This is not merely a suggestion—it is now the law.
The Case of the Great Indian Bustard
The court examined a case involving the Great Indian Bustard, a critically endangered bird. The ruling stipulates that companies operating near the bird's habitat must act as responsible guests. They must ensure that their activities do not harm the bird or its environment.
Constitutional Duty
The court emphasized that companies must adhere to India's Constitution, which mandates environmental protection as a fundamental duty. Companies are no exception—they must allocate resources to safeguard nature. This is not optional; it is their legal obligation.
Specific Protections for the Great Indian Bustard
The court issued clear directives:
- Companies must protect the Great Indian Bustard.
- They must avoid constructing large solar projects or power lines in the bird's habitat.
- The bird is a symbol of India's natural heritage and must be preserved.
A Shift in Corporate Responsibility
This ruling redefines corporate accountability. Companies are now legally required to:
- Invest in environmental protection.
- Adopt sustainable practices.
- Collaborate with experts to ensure their projects benefit the environment.
- Monitor and report their environmental impact.
A Legal Imperative
This decision sends a strong message: protecting the environment is not just ethical—it is the law. Companies must prioritize nature conservation as part of their legal and moral duty.
