Introduction The imperative of economic progress often clashes with the necessity of environmental preservation, creating a critical ethical dilemma. The recent Ken-Betwa river linking project exemplifies this conflict, pitting infrastructure development against ecological damage, raising questions about balancing utilitarianism with environmental ethics.

Stakeholder Identification Local communities, Government, Businesses/Industries, Environmentalists, Future generations, Wildlife/Ecosystem.

Answering the questions

Sustainable development offers a pathway to reconcile economic advancement with environmental protection. Prioritizing sustainable practices in industries through green technologies, like those promoted by the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, can minimize environmental impact while fostering economic growth. This addresses the dilemma of short-term gain vs. long-term gain by promoting eco-centric development, aligning with the ethics of care for future generations.

Government policies play a crucial role. Stringent environmental regulations, similar to Germany's stringent emissions standards for automobiles, coupled with incentives for sustainable practices, can steer businesses towards responsible growth. This tackles the issue of failure in implementing government policies by ensuring accountability and transparency, reflecting a deontological approach to duty and responsibility.

Public awareness campaigns, like those promoting the use of renewable energy in Denmark, can foster a sense of shared responsibility for environmental conservation. This addresses the conflict between public welfare and private gain by emphasizing the common good approach and promoting virtue ethics in individuals.

Integrating environmental education into curricula can cultivate a long-term perspective on sustainability, addressing the issue of moral myopia. Empowering local communities, similar to community-based forest management in India, to participate in environmental decision-making ensures their needs are considered, upholding the principles of social contract theory and addressing the global good vs. national interest dilemma.

The precautionary principle should guide developmental projects. Conducting thorough environmental impact assessments, like those mandated for large infrastructure projects in many countries, can mitigate potential harm, addressing the conflict between environmental conservation and economic development. This aligns with a utilitarian approach by maximizing overall well-being while minimizing harm.

Conclusion The pursuit of sustainable development requires a paradigm shift, prioritizing long-term well-being over immediate economic gains. The success of Bhutan's Gross National Happiness index, which prioritizes environmental conservation, demonstrates that economic growth and environmental protection can coexist. Moving forward, an ethical framework grounded in intergenerational equity, environmental justice, and a commitment to the common good is essential to navigate the complex interplay between economic development and environmental preservation. Promoting international cooperation, like the Paris Agreement on climate change, can facilitate the sharing of best practices and resources, ensuring a sustainable future for all.