Earth Day: What Must We Do to Save the Planet?
Background:
Earth, within the solar system, is so far the only planet where life is sustainable. Though Mars, as an alternative, is under exploration, and is often found as a theme in sci-fi movies, and is perhaps in your mind also, but, environmental conditions over there make habitability questionable. So, we live only as long as the earth is habitable. But, with climate-changing at such a pace, exactly how long will this sustainability of life over the earth will last, is the question that must ring the alarm bell for us.
The last time when life was almost wiped out from the earth was around 250 million years ago. Perhaps, almost 85% of species living on land and 95% marine species were extirpated. The threat of this intensity or maybe even severe than this is lurking ahead. Owing to accelerating climate change, towards the end of this century, certain parts of the earth will nearly be inhabitable and some others gravely hostile to life, thanks to our living habits. Even today biodiversity, ecosystem and health are under serious threat.
Earth day: what is it all about?
Earth Day was first celebrated on 22 April 1970 and continues to be celebrated ever since with exponentially increasing participation every year. With an ever-increasing number of people joining the cause, it has now become the largest secular observance, doesn’t it sound interesting?
But what exactly is earth day celebrated for, lets discuss. The day serves as a phenomenon promoting clean and sustainable living of both humans and animals on earth. It calls global leaders, NGOs, state governments and individuals for action against changing conditions of the earth. It also is a reminder of how one hundred and fifty years of industrialization has made our planet this fragile and tells that how important it is to protect our home, the earth. Had the stand not been taken 51 years ago, we may still be gulping lead produced by vehicles and industries.
How it all started?
In 1970, the post-war economic boom was approaching the zenith with an increasing number of expanded industries with enhanced manufacturing capabilities than ever. It made the life of inhabitants somewhat easier but at the peril of pushing the world towards being hostile to life. Dark clouds of smoke emitted from vehicles and industries had already started hovering in the air. And, the world was becoming chocked by industrial waste.
Rachel Carson in her book Silent Spring in 1962 had shown the red light. This attracted the attention of many and set the stage for activism and changes that were to follow.
Senator Gaylord Nelson was already concerned about the decaying environmental conditions of the United States, and, became particularly worried after the oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. He, along with his allies, announced teach-in on schools. To ensure maximum participation, 22 April was decided as it was a weekday between spring break and exams. Soon it caught the attention of the media and a wide range of organizations and individuals joined the cause. On earth day (22 April), 10% of America’s population back then took to roads, auditoriums, and Parks to protest for the deteriorating environment of Earth.
Rare alignment was formed among the disintegrated groups who were protesting against hazards of industries, political parties including Republicans and Democrats for the cause in 1970. Rich and poor, urban population and farmers showed support alike. The endeavours didn't go fruitless! Following the protests, the United States Environmental Protection Agency was established shortly after. And, the first of their kind laws were also passed. National Environmental Education Act and the Occupational Safety and Health Act are examples of such laws. This eventually saved the lives of millions of people and other inhabitants.
In 1990, Denis Hayes, the closest ally of Nelson, was approached by a group of environmentalists. They asked him to once again organize the campaign but this time globally. It met a huge success! around 200 million people from almost 141 countries joined the demonstrations. Thus the world earth day went global leading to the United nation earth summit of 1992.
How about the present moment?
So, after this long struggle have we overcome the danger? Not yet. Climate change is accelerating every year. In fact, the rise in global temperature was far slower before 1970. The rise in average temperature since 1901 was 0.14 f per decade. Since the late 1970s, the rate of change in temperature increased dramatically. The warmest year so far was 2015 which wasn’t long ago. The rainfall rate is lessening. In January 2021, Pakistan received 59pc below normal. Climate is getting dry. What does that mean? It only means that we are on the verge of danger. Does it imply that all the struggle got us nowhere? Not at all! This only means that we need to do something yet greater to save our home. What is that “something greater”, let's attempt find out.
What must we do to save the planet?
Target is clear: prevention of climate change. Global warming needs to be resisted. Paris agreement says the goal is to keep it below 2 Celcius. The biggest contributor to warming is Carbon, we need to reduce its usage. Simple, isn’t it? But how do we do that is hard knut to crack as life has become greatly dependent on it. Below are listed some practical ways.
1. Demand your government to take action:
If the earth doesn’t remain habitable, your country won’t be an exception. So, to prevent warming, you must demand your government not to contribute to warming. Besides, ask your governments to try to reduce already increased warming. Shifting to electric trains, utilization of environment-friendly means of energy production, and enhanced public transport wouldn’t be too much to ask for, right?
2. Arrange renewable energy for yourself if you can
Get power supply from the companies which use wind and solar energy for the greater part of power production. Make sure that your power supply company is Green-e Energy certified. if any such company doesn’t supply energy in your locality, you can power your residence on your own. It is quite affordable. A few solar plates will save you from the curse of heavy bills. You will be contributing to the planet alongside, doesn’t that sound great!
3. Go Green
What could resist climate change better than trees! More are the trees, the greater amount of carbon they will inhale and the increased amount of oxygen we will get in return. Besides, more trees will attract more rainfall. Earth won't go dry, this way. Inhabitants won’t dehydrate to death. And, warming will be resisted. Wasn’t this our goal! So, forestation is key. If you can’t contribute on a large scale, plant just one tree on this earth to show that you care.
4. Consume less
Less consumption means less production. The lower the production is, the lower the emission of greenhouse gases will be. How can it be done? Not a big heck. Just shift to appliances that consume less energy. LED bulbs for instance can be better than conventional incandescents as they require around 80% lesser energy. Moreover, usage of personal vehicles isn't favourable to the environment as more carbon will be emitted. So, if possible, use public transport instead.
Following these simple steps for this great a cause won’t be big deal, right?
What are your plans this earth day, let me know.
