In recorded history, the challenges to planet Earth have never been greater or more dire than where the 21st century finds us. The expression, “Nero fiddled while Rome burned,” has disconcerting relevance, but pales into insignificance as we witness the devastating effects of global warming, denudation of forests and horrific pollution of rivers, dams and the oceans.
Man, through greed, ignorance regarding animal husbandry and its effects, the myopic exploitation of natural resources and depletion of non-renewable and destructive sources of energy, is responsible for the rapid approach to ‘ground zero’ for life as we know it. Are we beyond the point of ‘no return’ or is there still hope?
It is alarming that many governments, global corporations, industrialists and humankind in general, ignore the warnings of scientists and experts in the fields of climatology, oceanography, marine biology and forestry. Ecologists and environmentalists who are focused on sustainable life, make impassioned pleas based on empirical evidence realities which, disturbingly, fall on ‘deaf ears’.
The current wanton colonisation of Africa and the ‘capturing’ of some of its economies, while denuding natural resources, is frightening. Is there light at the end of the tunnel, or is that our fast-approaching train of self-destruction?
That light just may be the desperately needed hope that is championed by those who display the necessary levels of consciousness, appreciate the ‘big picture’ of survival needs and heed the call to tirelessly serve their planet.
Environmental and eco warriors including Greenpeace, the Worldwide Fund for Nature, Amnesty International, Unicef and Sea Shepherd Conservation are all doing admirable and critically important work for the health of our planet. Our support is crucial.
At national, regional and local levels, authorities must take the lead and encourage environmental awareness through example, and effective legislation and policing.
On the educational front, there is an urgent need for meaningful and ongoing sensitisation of all, from a young age, to the dire consequences of pollution and ecological suicide.
The school academic curriculum must include ongoing focus on conservation, preservation and ecological balance. Families should ideally guide their young to adopt lifestyles and practices that include recycling, nature clean-ups and litter awareness.
May the signs of a movement away from the deplorable effects of plastics use and pollution by supermarket chain stores, grow into a groundswell of sensitivity to the needs of our planet.
The example set by Sweden and other developed countries regarding litter-free practices and lifestyles should become the norm. Singapore is a shining example of zero tolerance of environmental, ecological and aesthetic damage. Global emulation is crucial.
Among many quotes on environment, the following capture the essence:
“One of the first conditions of happiness is that the link between man and nature shall not be broken.” — Leo Tolstoy.
“The Earth will not continue to offer its harvest, except with faithful stewardship. We cannot say we love the land and then take steps to destroy it for use by future generations.” — John Paul II.
“A nation that destroys its soils destroys itself. Forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.” — Franklin D Roosevelt.
The environmental clock is ticking … pray that it’s not a global time bomb.
