A Shift from Anthropocentric Approach to Ecocentric Approach for the Protection of Environment and Non-Human Animals

Abstract

The biodiversity of the earth and the non-human animals living on this planet is losing their lives and their intrinsic worth at an ever-increasing rate due to human activities. Recently, it was observed that the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India, in the Centre for Environmental Law, Advocacy & Research v. Union of India & Ors. case, took steps towards addressing the anthropocentric approach and recognizing the intrinsic value of non-human animals and the environment.WWF-1 Vs Union of India on 15th April 2013 adopted Tom Regan’s philosophy which considered all subjects – of-life notwithstanding human or nonhuman, as equally intrinsic value. In this case, the Court shifted its focus from Anthropocentric to Eco- Centric approach and clearly stated that human interest cannot take control over animal's life and humans have duties towards nature and non-human animals as mentioned under Article 51 –A (g) of Indian Constituiton. Ecocentrism means respecting ecosystems that recognize the intrinsic value in all life forms and ecosystems and equally respect both humans and non-humans irrespective of any instrumental value.
This chapter will focus on the shift from an anthropocentric to an eco-centric approach for protecting the environment and non-human animals, using the case study method.