In 2001, the UN General Assembly declared November 6th as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict. War devastates people, community, infrastructure and the economy. Even more telling, the effects of war on the environment are most devastating–for generations to come. November 6th was declared to commemorate this unrecorded victim of war—our environment. It takes decades for the environment to recover from the damage. In some cases, the damage is irreversible.
Winter is on its way, and will continue its seasonal journey for the next four months in India. Winter brings forth the beauty of nature, while warning us about the quality of our air. Recently, researchers found that up to 50% of the road space in Mumbai is being occupied by private cars. Experts say that this surge can cause serious problems to the city. Air pollution and traffic congestion are the main problems that a city has to face. Experts suggest only one way out—public transportation.
Over the past few years, governments have been urging people to choose public transport. Yet, what we see is a declining number of public transit ridership. The key reasons for this decline are lack of punctuality, safety, cleanliness, and reliability.
Solving these issues is one way of promoting public transportation among the public. Dedicated lanes for pedestrians and cyclists is the way ahead for countries like India. Bus rapid transit systems and light trains are another form of sustainable transportation.
A key environmental event observed in November is World Toilet Day, which is focused on protecting groundwater from human waste pollution. This campaign also focuses on the fact that we are way behind in ensuring safe toilets for all by 2030. Over 78% of sewage generated remains untreated in India. This toxic waste is then disposed of in rivers, groundwater or lakes, contaminating 90% of all surface water in our country, with devastating consequences. So, this year’s theme policy makers must work on average four times faster to achieve the goal of safe toilets for all by 2030.
In the meantime, are you an ecopreneur? Do share your green stories and opinions with us!
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