ABSTRACT

The controversial root of current environmental problems has generated heated arguments among various scholars with their critical views channeled through political means. Mackinnon noted that,

The fact that we differ in our evaluation (of environmental problems) is not a problem in itself for the anthropocentric position or for attempts to use cost-benefit analyses to aid our decision making. We argue, and changes [sic] our minds and sometimes we agree to disagree, then, we find political ways to negotiate these differences. 1

The issue of environment, especially its influence on the economy, has made it an imperative concern for the political authorities of most nations. The scourge of environmental degradation particularly in developing countries was highlighted as one of the main Millennium Developmental Goals (MDG) in the September 2000 Summit of the United Nations where world leaders gathered to set a time and measurable targets to combat the ills of underdeveloped nations including poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy and environmental degradation. 2