World Environment Day is observed every year on June 5 to create awareness about the need to protect our environment.

The need to protect our environment is increasing day-to-day as a consequence to the harm being done to the natural world in full awareness or accidentally. From pollution, plastic, deforestation, climate change, population, global warming to loss of biodiversity, the planet is under already tremendous pressure.

The first World Environment Day was observed in 1974 with the theme 'Only One Earth'. After which different countries began to host the day following a different theme every year. World Environment Day 2019 theme is 'Beat Air Pollution' and the host nation is China.

Talking about the World Environment Day United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres said, "It is time to act decisively. My message to governments is clear: tax pollution; end fossil fuel subsidies; and stop building new coal plants. We need a green economy, not a grey economy."

However, there are still ways that we can adapt to save the Earth and make it green again.

Avoid Plastic as Much as Possible

 

Plastic is slowly choking the Earth to death. From oceans, wetlands, protected ecosystem, plastic has found its way everywhere. It has affected our environment to a point beyond renewal. While the current damage looks irreversible, there is an urgent need to stop using plastic products. Although that is next to impossible, we can adopt measures that will keep our plastic consumption in control.

One can carry their own cloth or jute bags while shopping. One-time use items like thin plastic bags, straws, use and throw pens should be avoided. Face-wash containing beads which are microplastic is also hazardous to marine life.

Use Less Fuel

 

Fuel is one of the non-renewable sources of energy on the planet which is running out of stock very quickly. More and more people are using bicycles to commute.

There is an increased need to adopt public transport and those that will leave less footprint. Cycling not only helps in reducing greenhouse gases but also burns calories and keeps weight in check.

Don’t Waste Water

 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an average American spends eight minutes in the shower. And they approximately use around 75 liters of water.

From household chores to farming, the wastage of water should be stopped at the root level. Water is a vital natural resource that is scarcely available to a lot of people. Our simple steps towards water conservation can help reduce its wastage and keep the balance maintained.

Use Long-Lasting Items

 

Using energy efficient light bulbs that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions to a considerable amount. Similarly using durable household items including furniture, utensils, and accessories can ensure you leave less carbon footprint.

Educate Children About the Problem

 

The future generation needs to be informed about the threat to the environment. They have to be aware of issues such as global warming, climate change, loss of biodiversity, pollution, deforestation, and overpopulation which is posing as the major threat to the environment.

Plant Trees

 

Deforestation has left the Earth yearning for oxygen. It is a good thought to incorporate planting trees as part of an anniversary and birthdays celebrations. An increase in green cover can help bring back our rain clouds and make the Earth cooler.

By Sowmya Sangam