In the blind race of modernization, we are increasingly neglecting the importance of the environment. Presently, various parts of the country are facing severe environmental pollution crises. In such a scenario, the significance of environmental preservation has multiplied manifold. Numerous provisions exist in the law to control and prevent pollution in the country. These include the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974, the Water Cess Act of 1977, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981, the Environment Protection Rules of 1986, the Hazardous Chemicals Rules of 1989, among others.
Other regulations include the Hazardous Wastes Rules of 1989, guidelines for the production, storage, and import/export of genetically engineered organisms, the Chemical Accidents Rules of 1996, the Biomedical Waste Rules of 1998, rules for the production and use of recycled plastics of 1999, the Ozone-Depleting Substances Rules of 2000, Noise Pollution Rules of 2000, the Maharashtra Bio-Waste Control Ordinance of 2006, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification Rules of 2006.
Despite such extensive legal measures, the levels of pollution in the country continue to rise, with cities like Delhi ranking among the most polluted in the world concerning air quality. Pollution is not just a national concern for India but a global crisis.
According to the National Health Portal, nearly seven million people lose their lives annually due to air pollution. Currently, the pollution situation worldwide is so severe that nine out of ten people lack access to clean air. If we fail to address this issue promptly, future generations will inevitably suffer the consequences of toxic air. As Professor Michael Greenstone of Chicago remarks, pollution cannot be tackled at an individual level; it requires collective efforts.
Various reports highlight that about 75% of the world’s population resides in areas where air pollution levels exceed the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Air pollution is reducing average life expectancy globally. Research from the University of Chicago suggests that air pollution is more harmful than smoking or diseases like tuberculosis.
The threat of climate change is escalating, leading to a decline in agricultural productivity. Europe and the Mediterranean region face the highest risk of heat, with populations above 65 years being most vulnerable.
The loss of tree diversity is a significant threat to environmental balance. Deforestation has put many tree species on the brink of extinction worldwide. According to a 2021 global report, one-third of tree species are at risk of extinction, destabilizing entire ecosystems. The loss of tree diversity results in decreased carbon storage, climate change, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss.
Trees and forests play a vital role in our lives. They regulate climate, produce oxygen, and act as natural water reservoirs. Additionally, they provide habitats for animals, birds, and insects. Trees facilitate nutrient exchange in the soil. If trees vanish, the life cycle of the environment will be disrupted. Therefore, it is our responsibility to protect them.
The beauty bestowed upon the Earth by nature is deteriorating due to pollution. As rapidly as development progresses, pollution levels rise equally fast. Immediate measures are required; otherwise, future generations will face severe consequences.
Regarding trees, many species are on the verge of extinction. According to the Global Tree Status Report, one-third of tree species worldwide are endangered. Trees are not merely plants but the foundation of entire ecosystems. Tree diversity maintains environmental balance. Without trees, the biological equilibrium is disrupted, endangering various species.
Trees not only store carbon but also play a crucial role in the water cycle, air purification, and precipitation. A mature tree can store up to 15,000 liters of water annually. Losing tree diversity disrupts the cycles of water, carbon, and nutrients, exacerbating environmental issues.
The destruction of trees poses a grave danger to the entire environment. Hence, prioritizing tree plantation and halting deforestation is essential. Without understanding the importance of trees, environmental conservation is impossible. Collective efforts are needed to prevent deforestation. Everyone must recognize the importance of trees and take concrete steps to protect the environment. Otherwise, future generations will have to bear severe repercussions.
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*Senior journalist
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