Geographical Dimensions of Environmental Sustainability

This book presents selected papers from the International Geographical Union (IGU) Thematic Conference 2022, which was held at the Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, India, November 24–25, 2022. The theme of the conference was Sustainability, Future Earth, and Humanities: Opportunities and Challenges. Within the context of the physical environment, the book explores advanced research and innovative methodologies that illuminate significant discoveries pertaining to comprehensive perspectives on sustainability. Environmental sustainability is a critical global concern that revolves around the responsible use and preservation of natural resources to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It encompasses various dimensions that impact the health and resilience of our planet. Geographical factors play a crucial role in determining the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainability, offering valuable insights into the interconnectedness between nature and society. These insights are fundamental to understand environmental sustainability including ecosystem diversity, climate and weather patterns, land use and urbanization, water resources, natural hazards and vulnerability, resource distribution, transportation and connectivity, coastal and marine environments, political and social boundaries, and environmental justice. Understanding and integrating these geographical dimensions into environmental sustainability initiatives can lead to more effective and context-specific strategies to safeguard our planet's health and promote a harmonious coexistence between nature and human society. It requires interdisciplinary collaboration, international cooperation, and a shared commitment to protect and nurture the Earth for current and future generations. This book covers a broad range of issues, with an emphasis on how to create a physically and socially sustainable environment. In addition, this book provides comprehensive investigations of a range of subjects, including climate change, environmental risk assessment, climatic hazards, resource exploration, water resource management, seismic analysis, green synthesis, ground thermal regime, and glacial dynamics, among others.