World Environment Day: It’s time for some ‘planned’ action

Is environment preservation and conservation an abstract topic that is best debated upon in seminar halls, and now on zoom calls and webinars? History is testimony to how humans have shaped the world in every possible way. To make the conservation of our environment and ecology a priority, it’s time for the human race to take stock of the otherwise miserable situation and combat it by adopting a rather sustainable approach. One must grow a civic conscience and do what’s good for us as well as for the planet. In this series, we bring to you visionaries who tell us how through taking small yet imperative steps, we can assure the planet is nurtured well and preserved for our future generation. Read on –

Vineet Vohra, Give Me Trees Trust, New Delhi : My aim has been to tap the endless potential trees give our lives. You will be surprised to know that all our problems have only one solution – trees. I work to impart information about these green treasures and share the ecological importance some of the rare and anonymous species of trees have. Today’s world is a rarefied space where pollution of every type is at its peak –  the cars are honking, the number of vehicles is increasing, the air is bad and the elements present in the air are enough to make us sick, very sick. There is perhaps only one solution that help us in all the dire situations our planet is facing today. And that is to increase the tree count and the leaf count. It has become an absolute necessity to plant more and more trees – if you have quantitative land, you can plant small plants abundantly in your balconies. The ‘Where, what and how’ becomes essential and this can be achieved through nature education. I firmly believe that we are the last generation who can take necessary steps to save our future generations and the habitat.

Trees are water magnets and Oxygen bombs, which help in keeping our immune system up and working in the most natural way. I feel trees are Gods on Earth and we must work together to save them, as they are life bearers as well. In an attempt to promote the increase in the tree count and the leaf count, I promote green activities and work closely with schools, colleges, corporates and institutes. Going green is the only viable option we have if we have to save our planet. Give Me Trees Trust is devoted to planting and protecting trees and in the process has facilitated the planting and preservation of over 20 million trees across India.

Follow Give Me Trees Trust for more information – https://www.facebook.com/givemetreestrust/

Smita Murarka, Vice President- Marketing & E-commerce, Duroflex – Reduce, reuse and recycle has been the mantra for sustainability. However, it all begins with adopting an approach to ‘reduce’. I resonate completely with the school of thought which states that the most successful way to reduce waste is to not create it. Manufacturing a new product is a lengthy procedure which requires time, energy, raw materials and fuel. The benefits of reduction and reusing are by far the most effective ways through which we can save our natural resources, conserve our environment and save up some money too! It’s time people start focusing on waste management and recycling.

A conscious effort in evaluating the need, avoiding mindless purchases can reduce waste to a large extent. Impulse buying is the one of the biggest things one can give up, easily. I, personally, try my level best to invest in things I really need or require, and that too, after a proper research of its utility and sustainability. I also make sure that I use my mobile phone till it gives up completely because e-waste is a big contributor to the landfill sites. Apart from that, I prefer walking as much as possible instead of using a car. Opt for minimalism because the less we use, the less we waste and eventually the more we save. I personally make sure I do not use straws, and over the years have switched to more natural fabrics in clothing. A little attention paid to small everyday things can lead to a better tomorrow.

Dr. Atraeyee Niharchandra, Naturopathy Physician: Taking charge of yourself and the planet begins with self-care. I feel one must begin the earth love by embracing your life as it is and do whatever it takes in your capacity to look after yourself. Planet love begins when your spoon doesn’t tamper with nature. I believe, practice and preach that one must add more seasonal, local and organic produce to their diets. I am a vegan and I can vouch good food can instantly boost your mood and keep you satiated emotionally as well. Give yourself a legacy of good health by investing in eating well, as it not only prevents and reverse diseases but also benefit the planet. Fruits should be your ideal go-to between meals as it revives poor appetite and energises the jaded taste buds. You can add idli or dosa to your five o clock hunger regime as they are healthy alternatives to the fried snacks.

Your choices reflect your attitude towards the life and for the overall energising the world requires. As a responsible global citizen, I have completely phased out the use of plastic from my life and I never feel shy in spreading awareness about it. I do not have any car or bike, never felt the need to have one actually. I recently bought a previously-owned property, and instead of spending my resources on renovating it lavishly, I chose to go minimalistic. I have also packed and bundled stuff such as clothes and things which I do not need any more in separate suitcases and boxes, which of course, I will be donating as and when. One must grow a civic conscience and do what’s good for us as well as for the planet.