The present era is the age of globalization. In this age, society—founded the pillars of science and technology—is progressing rapidly day by day. Thousands of factories and numerous new industries are being established daily. At the same time, the population is growing at an alarming rate. As a result, the use of fertilizers and pesticides to increase food production has also risen excessively. Advanced technology has enabled humans to travel even into space. In this scientific age, new tools, equipment, and substances are being invented every day. Countless medicines and chemicals are being developed. A radical transformation is taking place all around. Overall, with the progress of science and technology, human thought is also advancing swiftly. Along with the observance of World Environment Day in this age of globalization, concern for the environment has also gained momentum. On the other hand, the environment has an undeniable impact on every aspect of human life. Humans cannot imagine life without the environment. Hence, there exists an inseparable relationship between humanity and nature.
However, in today’s time, environmental issues have emerged as a major global challenge. Some short-sighted people are attempting to turn Earth into an artificial satellite, destroying forests in the name of industrialization, and cutting down trees for their selfish interests. No one seems to care about others anymore—everyone is only concerned with themselves. Some are so engrossed in personal gain that they are exploiting natural resources indiscriminately. As a result, global temperatures are rising steadily. While the environment protects humans, humans, in turn, are destroying the environment. This has led to a conflict between man and nature, giving rise to a number of problems.
As a consequence, pollution has become rampant. In the name of industrial and commercial development, and due to the unplanned establishment of industries, waste materials from these industries are polluting the soil, water, and air, severely contaminating the environment. Although India is known as an agricultural country, today, 53% of its arable land is affected due to pollution. This has made the economic condition of farmers quite pitiful. Cutting down trees and destroying forests in mountainous areas has led to riverbank erosion, increasing rainfall, and worsening floods. This causes financial distress to the public—homes, livestock are washed away in floods, and agricultural land diminishes.
Additionally, chemical waste from industries, chemical fertilizers used in agriculture, animal waste, and garbage have caused severe water pollution. Most waterborne diseases originate from such contaminated water, costing many lives. The rapidly growing number of vehicles also adversely affects the environment. The noise pollution caused by cars, machines, and factories contributes to sensory damage and other health issues. Industrial waste—especially chemical waste—further degrades the environment. The stench from garbage and dead animals dumped along roadsides leads to diseases as well. In recent times, plastic has become a significant source of pollution due to its frequent misuse. The excessive foul smell caused by plastic waste has led to several health hazards despite awareness campaigns being undertaken. Authorities seem largely indifferent. The lack of a healthy environment has now led to poverty, illiteracy, malnutrition, and various diseases among the population.
Since the environment is intrinsically linked to human life, we must protect it to ensure a better future for the next generation. With this goal, on June 5, 1972, many countries across the world collectively pledged to protect the environment. Since then, this day has been celebrated as World Environment Day globally. But should our immense love and concern for the environment be remembered only on June 5? For a healthy environment, everyone should think about it every single day—from morning till night. Efforts must be made continuously to make the Earth pollution-free. Given the current pace at which the environment is heading toward destruction, the time has come to protect and purify it.
Celebrating Environment Day with awareness meetings, drawing competitions, and planting trees on just one day is not enough. Concern for the environment should be constant. Since every human is an integral part of nature, we must not put excessive and unjust pressure on it. Greater awareness must be spread among the public, and people should prioritize environmental issues. After all, living in a good environment is a fundamental right of every individual.
In conclusion, we must curb the various sources of pollution. All it takes is a little effort and awareness. Only then will the environment improve, and the Earth remain beautiful. We must also encourage future generations to take a positive step toward environmental protection. If everyone becomes aware and responsible, a clean, pollution-free, and evergreen Earth can truly be achieved.
(Author Deborshi Gautam is Executive Editor of Assamese E- Magazine Sobdobak.)
