Environment Definition in EVS

In Environmental Studies (EVS), the term Environment refers to the sum total of all surroundings of a living organism, including the natural, man-made, social, and cultural conditions that influence its life and development.

Components of the Environment

The environment is a complex system comprising various interconnected elements. Let's break down the components mentioned in the question:

• Man-made environment: This includes all the physical surroundings created or modified by humans. Examples include cities, buildings, roads, bridges, farms, and industries.
• Natural environment: This encompasses all living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) things that occur naturally on Earth. It includes the atmosphere, hydrosphere (water bodies), lithosphere (land), and biosphere (all living organisms).
• Social environment: This relates to the interactions and relationships among people within a society. It includes family structures, community life, social norms, customs, and institutions.
• Cultural environment: This involves the ideas, customs, beliefs, arts, knowledge, and social behaviour of a particular society or group of people. It shapes how people perceive and interact with their surroundings.

Understanding the Holistic Environment

An EVS perspective emphasizes that all these components are integral parts of the overall environment. The natural world is influenced by human activities (man-made environment), and human life is deeply embedded within social and cultural contexts. Therefore, a complete understanding of the environment must consider all these dimensions.

The question asks what constitutes the environment in EVS. Based on the comprehensive understanding:

• The man-made environment is a part of our surroundings.
• The natural environment forms the fundamental basis of our existence.
• The social environment shapes human interactions and community living.
• The cultural environment influences our values, beliefs, and practices.

Consequently, the environment in EVS encompasses all these aspects: man-made, natural, social, and cultural.

Therefore, the correct option is the one that includes all (a), (b), (c), and (d).