Game theory is the study of human conflict and cooperation within a competitive situation. In some respects, game theory is the science of strategy, or at least the optimal decision-making of independent and competing actors in a strategic setting. Game theory has become one of the main analytical tools for addressing strategic issues in the field of economics and is increasing its influence in other fields of social sciences. With the increased level of extraction of natural resources and pollution of environments, game theory has come to be recognized as a tool to solve problems in the environmental sphere also.

This month, our cover story, titled, 'So, It's All a Game?' highlights how the game theory applies to environmental issues. Game theory is used to analyse choices where the outcome of a decision by one player depends on the decisions of the other players and where the decisions of the other players are not known in advance. Such interdependence among groups is evident in environmental problems. A good example that comes to mind is that of greenhouse gas emissions abatement and the climate change conundrum. As the net benefits of each country depend on the actions of the other country, game theory helps us explain such outcomes in a mathematically rational manner.

Our cover story discusses that game theory helps us identify the best way to stop environmental free-riding, which may take the form of sanctions against non-cooperative polluting countries or ensuring the existence of linked benefits. Moreover, game theory can also alert policymakers to unintended outcomes of implemented strategies. Forest management is yet another issue that can benefit from the application of the game theory. While game theory only answers the problem as accurately as the data inputted into the game many difficult decisions encountered in conservation management and pollution control can be guided via game theory.

The special report this month discusses about the possible link between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and high levels of organochlorine pesticides found in the bodies of patients in some recent studies in Delhi that associate pesticide levels with kidney disorder. Based on the building body of evidence, some researchers postulate that the long-term exposure to organochlorine pesticides could have adverse consequences on renal function and health. This could contribute to progressive renal injury over a lifetime or an end stage renal failure. They advocate the need to bring in regulatory efforts and strict monitoring to limit the exposure to these chemicals to reduce the burden of renal diseases in the community.