Key Highlights
- Small actions, like planting trees, conserving water, using sustainable transportation, and minimizing energy usage, create a healthier environment.
- Get involved locally! Support tree planting, volunteer for clean-ups, and raise awareness in your community for a greener environment.
- Youth have power! Lead in environmental conservation from home to your community, embracing nature for a sustainable future.
ello, dear reader! My name is Usha Jain, and I am based in Belgaum, Karnataka. At the age of 60, I believe it is crucial for each one of us to take responsibility for the environment we live in. In this article, I will share my experiences, actions, and insights on how we can contribute to a healthier and greener world.
World Environment Day and its Significance
World Environment Day holds great importance to me. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness and taking action for the protection of our environment. The environment, in my view, is not something separate from us; it is embedded within us. A clean, green, and serene environment is vital for our well-being, health, and the pursuit of a peaceful and purposeful life. I have always been perplexed by the negligence and apathy of people towards Mother Nature. Many exploit the environment for their own selfish desires without considering the long-term consequences. This inspired me to become actively engaged in environmental protection and conservation. I believe that by safeguarding the environment, we are safeguarding our own future and the well-being of generations to come.
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Actions for a Healthier Environment
Contributing to a healthier environment starts from our very own homes. We can make a difference by taking small yet significant actions. Here are some specific steps I take in my daily life:
1. Volunteering for a Clean Environment
I actively volunteer to keep my society premises and the surrounding areas clean. Before the arrival of the monsoons, I plant various plants in the surrounding areas, enhancing the lush green ambiance. My compact balcony is adorned with numerous plants and herbs like Aloe vera, chilly, ash gourd vine, and curry leaves. Taking care of these plants rejuvenates and inspires me. I also strive to educate and raise awareness about the importance of the environment, ensuring that plants and trees in my society are watered adequately.
2. Water Conservation and Reuse
Water is a precious resource, and I make conscious efforts to minimize its usage. I reuse water drained from washing grains, vegetables, and fruits to water my plants. Additionally, I decompose vegetable and fruit peels, along with kitchen waste, to create rich, fertile soil. I do this in my small balcony, where I have stacked two bags of nutrient-rich soil for future use. Such practices not only contribute to a healthier environment but also promote sustainable living.
3. Embracing Sustainable Transportation
To reduce my carbon footprint, I choose to walk instead of hiring a vehicle for short distances. Although it takes about 40 minutes for me to reach home from school, this routine keeps me fit, fine, and exhilarated. I also inspire my grandchildren to develop simple habits like turning off lights, fans, and TVs before leaving a room. These small actions collectively make a significant impact in conserving energy and preserving the environment.
4. Minimizing Water Usage and Local Shopping
Living in Belgaum, where drinking water is supplied only once a week due to scarcity, I have realized the value of water and the need to use it judiciously. I use a glass while brushing my teeth and carry a jute or cloth bag while shopping. Moreover, I prefer to buy locally sourced products to reduce the wastage of fuel caused by long-distance transportation.
Supporting Environmental Organizations and Initiatives
In Belgaum, I actively support an organization called JIWO. This organization focuses on tree planting just before the monsoon season. By participating in their initiatives, I contribute to the greening of our city. I firmly believe that minimizing the use of electric appliances can save a significant amount of energy. For example, reducing the usage of heaters and hot water during the summer months can make a substantial difference. In the areas where we plant trees, I request the immediate next person to water and take care of them, fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
Advice for Younger Generations
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My personal journey in environmental conservation has taught me that change begins with small, consistent actions. By contributing to a healthier environment in our daily lives, we can make a significant impact on the world around us.
