June 4th 2024.
In preparation for World Environment Day on June 5th, some environmental experts in Bhubaneswar have expressed their concerns about the current heatwave sweeping through the state and other parts of the country. They believe that this is a direct result of global warming and other climate changes. It is a critical time for us as new governments are about to take office and the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals have ranked India quite low in terms of its readiness to tackle these challenges.
According to the Centre for Science and Environment's 2024 report, India has experienced extreme weather events for 318 out of 365 days in the past year. To gain a better understanding of this situation, OrissaPOST spoke to several environmental specialists about what can be done to address these environmental hazards and climate change. JK Panigrahi, an environmentalist and secretary of Odisha Environmental Society, stated that we are facing serious challenges and the current heatwave is a clear indication of the impacts of global warming and climate change. He believes that the root cause of this crisis is the continuous release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere through the use of fossil fuels.
Panigrahi also highlighted this year's World Environment Day theme of "Land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience" with the slogan "Our Land, Our Future. We are Generation Restoration." He stressed the need for the world to focus on combating destructive land degradation practices and implementing conservation measures. The increasing issue of climate change has only worsened land degradation and desertification, leading to frequent droughts and affecting the rural population, marginal farmers, and the poorest of the poor.
As the quality of soil deteriorates and ecosystems become barren, it puts pressure on both humans and natural ecosystems. Panigrahi believes that the newly formed governments at the Centre and in the state must take decisive action and involve citizens in the fight against environmental challenges.
On the other hand, some environmentalists have raised concerns about the government's environmental action plan. Ranjan Panda, also known as the "Water Man of Odisha", stated that as we celebrate World Environment Day, we are on the edge of a crisis. The heatwave has taken a toll on our lives, and our preparations seem to fall short. Our transition to a green economy, powered by green energy, is slow, and our current development models are hindering this transition.
Panda urged for collective action to transition to green and inclusive growth pathways, stating that without it, we are digging our own graves. Neelima Mishra, a climate activist and founder of an environmental impact startup, Ceiba Green Solutions, Odisha, echoed similar concerns. She stressed the need for waste segregation, reducing single-use plastic, composting, and participating in activities like plogging and nature trails. Although becoming zero-waste households may seem like a daunting task, Mishra believes that adopting small habits can have a significant impact in reducing waste and plastic usage.
As we continue to face the effects of climate change and rising sea levels, it is essential to work towards adopting sustainable lifestyles with minimal use of plastic, garbage, and packaging. Our collective actions can make a significant difference in protecting the environment and our future. Let us strive to make a positive impact and protect our planet for the generations to come.
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