World Earth Day – Wake up call

By Taranjit Kaur | OPINION

The world today is far too dynamic, instantaneous and interrelated. Interestingly, we are all part of a wider ecosystem. Our actions largely impose some level of impact across the social value chain.

There is more. The many natural resources our lives revolve around are finite, that simply means it will either cease to exist or be available in limited quantities. A perfect example is water! The issue unfolding in Cape Town, South Africa is in itself an eye opener.

Okay! So what? We recently celebrated the World Earth Day, and we should be cherishing a life of abundance. True enough, part of which calls for contemplation and a sense of gratefulness. The looming question being – how are we going to sustain our Mother Earth, making it a beautiful place for generations to come?

Surely not an easy task ahead. The world’s population is growing, the need for natural resources is rising, individual footprint is increasing and natural resources are depleting. A colourful situation, indeed!

SEE ALSO: Today, 14 March, is Sikh Environment Day

Closer to home, we witnessed a change in weather patterns and its associated consequences. The truth is, climate change is here, and it is real, and new experiences are likely to unfold. The choice is ours; to either benefit by making a positive change or worsen the situation further. Opting for the latter should be nowhere close!

Instead, let’s pledge this World Earth Day to start changing ourselves. We can make a difference in our own unique ways, as individuals and communities, alike. Decisions we make today will determine the quality of our shared tomorrow. We are all liable, like it or not!

Sustainability entails every person to embrace universally binding values to ensure our world remains a flourishing avenue. After all, sustainability means the ability to sustain and in essence, is about staying relevant and purposeful.

Here are some quick and easy solutions to be more respectful of Mother Earth:

1. Minimise the use of energy i.e. switch off electrical points and equipment when unused, invest in energy saving appliances

2. Do more with less i.e. be water savvy, recycle and reuse items, zero paper use (go digital!)

3. Reduce waste i.e. be conscious of domestic waste such as food, eliminate use of plastic (bring your own)

4. Cap off individual footprint i.e. get healthier – walk and take the stairs instead of taking lifts or driving over short distances, carpool if possible or if convenient, use public transport

5. Nurturing others i.e. inculcating awareness at home and in our circle of influence on the need to be more sustainability conscious i.e. propelling the teaching of Sikhi in a more humane manner; such as concepts of sharing and greed management.

There is a lot more we can do, if we put our minds to it – going beyond our individual selves to embedding the elements of sustainability in our households, societal practices (even in the way we operate our Gurdwaras!) and far beyond.

We owe utmost love and compassion for Mother Earth,. Every small deed matters! Time for action is now!

Taranjit Kaur is a Kuala Lumpur based executive who gets involved in Sikh activities. 

[ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs in Southeast Asia and surrounding countries. We have a Facebook page, do give it a LIKE. Follow us on Twitter. Visit our website: www.asiasamachar.com] 18224

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