The Earth is our most important resource, and taking care of it deserves our daily attention. On Sunday, the entire world celebrated Earth Day, which started in 1970 as a conscious way to bring attention to the place we all call home. The day takes on particular significance as global warming is emerging as the biggest threat to humanity over the last few decades. Climate change is being felt across the world, including in our state, Arunachal Pradesh. A greater need to together fight the challenges posed by climate change has been recognized by all the leaders of the world.
Barring a few skeptics, everyone knows its significance. In this regard, Earth Day plays an important role. While public policies can and do have significant impact on the environment, personal responsibility plays a meaningful role also – especially at the local level. The energy we consume, the products we buy, how we discard trash; these are all parts of the equation that determines global health. The Earth is the responsibility of each and every one of us. Personal responsibility begins at home, but it should also include active involvement in the community. Institutional responsibility includes carrying behaviours over into the workplace and providing education. With or without the support of policy and leadership, it is on each of us to accept this responsibility and help take care of our most important resource. Observing Earth Day just for the sake of it will not serve the purpose. The people will have to make sincere efforts to save the Earth in the true sense.