“We only get one planet”, these were the words of famous American actor Leonardo DiCaprio to the General assembly of the United Nations few years ago. Looking back now, those words are of great essence giving the precarious state of mother earth.
Our environment consists of everything that makes up our planet, living thigs and non -living things included. From the water bodies, the land, diverse climates, the plants even the air we breathe. However, the state of our environments continues to deteriorate as little or no attention is giving to environmental protection.
The increase in the rate of pollution, the growing desertification and the rise in temperature with global warming shows us that our environment is not totally safe. For the survival of the human race, it is expedient that the state of our environment is given large concern. To curb this menace and consequently protect our environment, consistent actions need to be implemented in our daily activities.
Our actions as individuals will go a long way to ensure the preservation of our environment. Here are practical ways, we can together save our environment.
1. Planting a tree
Indeed, they beautify our surroundings and provide shade from the sun but trees serve greater purposes than just these. Trees not only provide food but also serve as habitation for numerous species of animals and other organisms beneficial to the soil and the environment at large.
Trees supply energy by producing the oxygen we need and they absorb the harmful gases in the atmosphere. Hence, planting more trees can go a long way in solving the global warming our planet is facing.
They also help in controlling flood by serving as water and wind breakers thereby helping to minimize the damages resulting from flood. Though we see almost trees everywhere, the number is reducing drastically as a result of human activities. It is therefore important we all engage in planting of trees for a healthier, greener environment.
2. 3 “Rs” Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Ever heard of the 3 “Rs”- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle? We live in a world of disposables. From disposable coffee cups, to disposable bottles, plates and other utensils to carrying disposable bags. All these leave a huge pile of waste in the end, harmful to our environment.
It is important we reduce the use of these plastic products and encourage the use of reusable items that can be recycled thereby, protecting the environment. Not all items deserve to be thrown into the trash can, think of creative ways those newspapers, bottles can be recycled.
3. Proper waste disposal
Aside recycling of items, the importance of a proper waste in protecting the surroundings cannot be overemphasized. Proper waste management ensures that the environment is protected from harmful gases like carbon monoxide and the overall effect of greenhouse gases on the environment. Our soil and water are also protected through proper waste disposal. Soil organisms and the marine life which are mostly endangered by these dangerous chemicals are preserved leading to a cleaner environment.
4. Reduce Energy Consumption
Cutting back on the amount of energy we daily consume helps in contributing to a healthier environment. Simple actions in our homes like turning of lightbulbs when not in use, unplugging unused electric items means less energy consumption and ultimately helps to reduce fossil fuels needed by power plants to create more energy. Opting for cleaner and renewable source of energy like wind and solar is another admirable alternative. They reduce our reliance on fossils fuels and also
5. Limit car use
Leaving the car in the garage few times a week saves our planets from tons of dangerous gases emitted from automobiles. Alternative means of commuting like taking a biking, walking, taking a public transport or even carpooling with friends are environmentally friendly as they help reduce the amount of greenhouse gases which are the major cause of climate change.
6. Conservation of Water
Water conservation is essential if we want to protect our environment. People need to encourage the conservation of water by preventing water wastage. Think of the large amount of water wasted daily due to faulty pipes, switching on taps when brushing or washing utensils.
Water conservation also includes ensuring that water bodies are being protected from pollution as our water bodies are faced with increase deposit of toxic materials. This has an adverse effect on the marine life and ultimately the human population.
7. Grow Your own food
Having your own garden where you grow vegetables and other food products is a great advantage to the environment. Think of the satisfaction that comes from consuming foods you watch grow; this not only saves the planet but also saves you some money.
8. Consuming locally grown produce
Why go for that chemically preserved food item when you can get a fresh natural one in your local market? When growing your food is not an option, we can still choose to buy local grown food produce. There are many benefits to buying locally grown food not only for the environment but also for us as individuals. The soil is nourished when food is grown organically.
Patronizing local farmers encourage the production of food locally which is beneficial to the environment, farmlands are being maintained and this also prevents food wastage as more people buy. Also, imported foods are often shipped for months hence needs to be preserved with preservatives containing chemicals which might be harmful not only to the environment but also to the human body.
9. Role of the government
Our government is not left out in this urgent task of protecting the nature. We need to hold them accountable to ensure policies and programs that seeks to protect the environment are executed. Laws should be implemented that prevent indiscriminate falling of trees, inconsiderate disposal of waste products especially by industries.
The public authority needs to also encourage a greener environment by granting incentives to farmers and agencies that promote forest conservation and a healthier environment.
10. Educate others
Now that you are aware of the numerous benefits of protecting our environment, it is necessary you educate others. Encouraging others and telling them about the importance of a more environmental healthy culture and practices helps to ensure we all partake in protection our planet. We all need to be educated about the dangers inherent in activities that are detrimental to the environment.
In all, to protect the environment, all hands must be on deck. It takes our collective effort to ensure that our home is preserved for the betterment of our lives and that of the future generation. For truly, we have only one planet and it is our role to protect it.
