We need to live a simple life and practice more self-control to save the world from a grave catastrophe, says Rajyogi Brahmakumar Nikunj Ji
Looking at the recent series of events, we can observe how the environment is increasingly witnessing a global change. There is now a greater realisation of the serious danger that the depletion of the ozone layer has been posing. The greenhouse effect is now resulting in an increase in the ultra-violet radiation and eventually, graver consequences like global warming, rise in the level of oceans and vanishing islands and coastal countries from the world map.
Hence, in the context of preservation of environment and planning for development, ‘sustainable’ has become a catchword. And that is why it is now being emphasised that our efforts to improve the living standards of people in the under-developed countries, as also our means of production and transport should not result in depletion of natural resources and degradation of environment. Greater emphasis is thus being put on the term ‘sustainable’ whenever one talks of development. Many steps in that direction are, therefore, being suggested. However, in this whole planning, not much has been thought and done to reduce the population growth rate, especially in some Asian countries. It is not being realised that if the population continues to grow in these countries, the efforts of development, however slow and small, would certainly cause more and more damage to the natural environment. Even if there were not much industrial expansion in these and other developing Asian countries, the huge population and its continuous growth would itself result in the rise of the greenhouse effect because of the production of methane from human and cattle resources. On the other hand, even if the developed countries continue to practice control over growth in human population, the per capita consumption of energy and non-renewable, natural resources in these countries is already so high that it will certainly result in a serious depletion of natural resources.
The excessive use of automobiles and other factors would gravely affect the environment. Thus, the threat posed by the lifestyles in these countries is real. But almost nothing is being done to bring the desired change in people’s outlook on their everyday habits which majorly contribute to an environmental imbalance.
World over, it is still not being properly realised that if the population continues to grow, to meet the over all demands of that population, developmental efforts also go on. Which will lead to a deterioration of the environment. Similarly, if the lifestyle of the people in the developed countries continues to be what it is today, then there would certainly be a depletion of natural resources. Combining the two factors together, one can say that ‘sustainable development’ has become a dream rather than a reality.
If, therefore, we wish to avert a major catastrophe because of these two grave threats, we must inspire people to have self-control and live a simple life and for that purpose, adopt a spiritual outlook on life. And for that we need to realise our spiritual identity and values. Such awareness will make us naturally eco-friendly and send out a positive energy that will bring the elements of nature into harmony with us again. If a critical mass of humans begin to live with this spiritual awareness, nature will by itself become our friend, and humanity will look at a golden instead of doubtful future.