The Intrinsic Greening: When Ecocentrism Modulates Conservation and Development

This book explores the critical role of ecocentric ethics in environmental conservation and restoration. It argues that adopting ecocentric principles in policies and practices is essential for achieving lasting and widespread conservation. Inspired by Aldo Leopold’s land ethics, the book emphasizes respect and reverence for Nature as vital for fostering an “ecological conscience.”

The book revisits the pioneering contributions of Sir Jagadish Chandra Bose, the “father of plant neurobiology,” whose revolutionary findings on plant sensory responses and proto-consciousness were ahead of their time. It challenges the dichotomy of ‘global versus local’ by advocating for a synthesis of these concepts, while rejecting the ‘othering’ of nonhuman Nature. The book also calls for integrating ecocentric principles into environmental education and restoration projects, offering fresh perspectives on conservation ethics. Supported by a wealth of case studies, it provides practical insights into the application of ecocentric principles, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience.

This book shall be useful to the departments of environmental studies, conservation biology, ethics, and education. It would also be an essential resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students, researchers, educators, and nature lovers. By addressing western environmental ethics, Aldo Leopold’s contributions, and globalization, supported by case studies from diverse regions, it appeals to a global audience invested in the ethical dimensions of environmental conservation.

Abhik Gupta is a former professor of Ecology and Environmental Science and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Assam University, Silchar, India. He has an experience of over 35 years of teaching biology and environmental science in both undergraduate and postgraduate courses and has mentored over 30 doctoral theses. Prof. Gupta’s research interests include environmental pollution, biodiversity, environmental policy, and ethics, in which he has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. His recent books include: Heavy Metal and Metalloid Contamination of Surface and Underground Water: Environmental, Policy, and Ethical Issues (CRC Press), 2021; Environmental Issues and Challenges (Routledge), 2024 – coauthored with Susmita Gupta; and Many Layers of Ecocentrism: Revering Life, Revering the Earth (Routledge), 2024.