Published in Dwareka Express on 3.8.24

‘Think globally, act locally’ is a loud thinking. Many feel that environment is a complex subject and needs more time and effort to do some visible work. And some are of the firm belief that the environmental protection and nature conservation are the responsibility of the Government and authorities. Some are of the opinion that carrying a cloth bag to a shop will not make a difference in environment. Recently we came across one ‘Mr. Green’, who vociferously challenged our advisory (see picture), saying that he would use cloth flag but would not give up balloons, as they are just 0.001% of plastic dumped. He comfortably had forgotten that the balloon is a part of Single use Plastic (SUP) category which was banned in India on 1.7.2022. Even the manufacturing of SUPs was banned on that day. When we pointed out to the inclusion of balloons in SUP, Mr. Green shamelessly vanished from WhatsApp Chat (posting a ‘folded hand’ Smiley). Unfortunately, social media has become a garbage dump and everyone use it liberally. So.., we are still using polythene bags and balloons. Street vendors say that they are left with no option. At least id there any economic value for a balloon? Can’t we think of other eco-friendly way of celebrating the occasions.

Economic conservatism and environmental conservatism go hand in hand. Let us try small deed such as ‘switch off the lights not in use’, ‘fix aerators in our water tabs so that water consumption can be reduced’, ‘do not fill up full water in glass and take only as per your need’ or ‘walk small distances’, ‘travel by buses’ and ‘avoid private automobiles wherever possible’. The list is not exhaustive but just indicative. Lot more ways are there. Many of my friends who visit USA or any other developed nations come back to say that the roads are spic and span. Is it not possible for the fifth largest economy to remain cleaner? It is all in our commitment and determination to keep the nation clean. India has brought Swachh Bharat Abhyan a decade ago. Single Use Plastic ban was enforced from July 1, 2022. So, where do we fail? Any reader will obviously rest the blame squarely on enforcement authorities. But are we adopting simplest eco-friendly ways which could easily be enforced?

Nation building is every one’s responsibility, not just that of the Government alone. In history, there were occasions when certain things were thrown out of circulation. Unfortunately, paper pockets, banana leaf parcels, reuse of one-sided papers, refill pens, cycling for shorter distances, using ever silver plates and glasses have all almost vanished. It is not possible for an ordinary citizen to recreate a destroyed forest. But one can do small things which will have a direct bearing on environment. A small voluntary organization may at the maximum plant 10000 trees. A school may educate the children not to waste anything. Or a corporate may check water misuse. In fact, there are 100 small ways to contribute to environment.

Simplest way is to give a thumbs up to those who contribute in even a small way!