It is high time that we move forward in a planned and systematic manner initiating futuristic investments
Every year December 2 is observed as the National Pollution Control Day to honour those who lost their lives in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy on this day in 1984. It was one of the biggest industrial pollution disasters in history. The leakage of the poisonous methyl isocyanate from an insecticide plant of the Union Carbide Corporation created havoc in the residential neighbourhood and the impact of that disaster is still witnessed in the flora and fauna of the area.
According to many estimates more than 400 tons of the industrial waste is still present on the site, not surprisingly the pollution in soil and water is even blamed today for birth defects in the region. The aim of commemorating the day is to remind people of the significance of a healthy and safe environment and the imperative role that it plays in our wellbeing.
It is not a secret that the world is facing an existential crisis which has been further fuelled by the pandemic, making us realise the fragility of human life. History is witness to the innumerable ways in which man has directly as well as indirectly influenced his environment while being influenced by it with far reaching implications for both. Human population has been rather late in realizing the significance of a clean and pollution free environment but then it’s better late than never.
The last decade has witnessed impending changes to the ecosystem and resulted in an array of unwanted alterations that are a serious threat to mankind. It has not only disturbed the environment and the fundamental aspects essential for the existence of human life namely air, water, food and shelter but also lead to global warming as well as habitat loss. The pressing concerns if not addressed immediately can play havoc with the planet, which is our only resort to life and wellbeing.
Lately, there has been a growing focus on living sustainably in harmony with nature while also ensuring that we collectively work towards a greener and healthier planet. With Indian metros topping the chart of the most polluted cities in the world, the government has been trying to actively get involved in the discourse surrounding environment and pollution. From ban on single use plastic and firecrackers to river cleanliness projects, initiating reforms for a healthier environment has been on the government’s agenda. However, for a long-term and sustainable impact it should be noted that at the policy implementation level environmental concerns should receive precedence over financial gains.
It is high time that we move forward in a planned and systematic manner initiating futuristic investments which can address both the concerns with a more resource effective approach and help break the vicious circle of environment degradation and economic development.
With concepts like Vocal for Local, Go Green and Swatch Bharat catching the fancy of all, it is the time to include all stakeholders in this change for a better world. Governments and policy makers can initiate advocacy changes to achieve a sustainable world. Business organizations should encourage positive actions centred on ethical environmental practices.
The onset of the pandemic has made all of us realize that “Leave no One Behind” as proclaimed in the SDG’s is the much-needed approach. The knowledge of constitutional provisions regarding environment protection should be encouraged to bring greater public participation, environmental awareness and education and to sensitize people to work towards preserving ecology and environment.
Reusing disposable items instead of discarding them immediately, carrying a cloth bag on a shopping spree, opting for handmade porcelain and clay dishes in place of microwavable plastic utensils and using public transport or car-pooling are some small but significant steps that can prove beneficial in future, if followed as a mass change. Remember any policy regulation by the government can prove to be sustainable only through people’s participation and willingness, which in turn can be achieved through awareness creation.
The adverse health impact of pollution is an immediate public health concern in the country from different kinds of cancer to asthma, from infertility to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a multitude of diseases are linked to pollution. The post-Covid 19 recovery plans cannot be successful if we fail to include actions to mitigate the process of environmental hazards. Instead of opting for short-term, kneejerk solutions, it is imperative that we ensure long-term sustainable solutions to the ever-growing problem of pollution for a better future for all.
(The author is CEO, IHW Council)