How can conflicting EVSs impact environmental policies?

Conflicting Environmental Value Systems (EVSs) can lead to disagreements and delays in implementing environmental policies.

Environmental Value Systems (EVSs) are the beliefs and values that influence how individuals, societies, or cultures perceive and evaluate environmental issues. These systems can vary greatly, leading to different perspectives on how to approach and solve environmental problems. When these EVSs conflict, it can significantly impact the development and implementation of environmental policies.

For instance, some people may prioritise economic growth over environmental protection, believing that the environment should be exploited for human benefit. This anthropocentric EVS often conflicts with ecocentric or biocentric EVSs, which place a higher value on preserving the environment and maintaining biodiversity. These differing viewpoints can lead to disagreements over policy decisions, such as whether to permit deforestation for agricultural expansion or to protect forest habitats for endangered species.

Moreover, conflicting EVSs can also lead to delays in policy implementation. For example, if a government proposes a policy to reduce carbon emissions, but a significant portion of the population or influential stakeholders hold an EVS that does not prioritise climate change mitigation, they may resist or obstruct the policy. This resistance can slow down the policy-making process, delay the implementation of necessary measures, and ultimately hinder efforts to address environmental issues.

Furthermore, conflicting EVSs can also result in inconsistent or fluctuating environmental policies. If the dominant EVS within a society or government changes, it can lead to shifts in environmental policy. For example, a government that previously prioritised economic growth may start to prioritise environmental protection if societal values shift. While this can lead to positive changes, it can also create uncertainty and instability in environmental management, making it difficult for businesses and individuals to plan for the future.

In conclusion, while diversity in EVSs can lead to a broader range of ideas and solutions, conflicting EVSs can also pose significant challenges for environmental policy-making. Understanding these conflicts and finding ways to navigate them is crucial for effective environmental management.