Earth is not our property, she is our responsibility

We are living on this planet as if we have another one to go to - Terry Swearingen

Crayon Art by Tharuni V Ra aptly depicting the current state of our planet

The Australian bushfires, covid pandemic, abnormally high rainfalls, global warming, climate change, are all ways nature is warning us. Telling us to slow down and take a look around at the chaos we have created. The amount of damage we have done to our planet is almost irreversible but we can help to slow down the rate at which we are causing destruction and try to improve the situation.

Everyone seems to think it is either not their problem or an individual's efforts will not amount to much. This is not true. Though our contribution as an individual may not seem like much, our collective efforts will make a huge difference. Here are a few things you can change in your daily lives and contribute to helping our planet - * Save water by fixing taps and pipes that leak water. Use water from a bucket instead of taking a shower. Reuse water used for washing vegetables and rice to water plants.

* Avoid constructing cement pathways around our homes. Water cannot seep in through cement hence rainwater gets wasted and underground water table will not replenish. Instead pavement stones can be an option that can also be an architectural interest. * Plant a few trees in and around your home which will help purify the air and to keep the temperature cool. We should also take care of the avenue trees planted by the government. * Walk, cycle or use public transport where possible instead of driving. This is not only a healthy option for us but also for the environment. * Use energy-conserving appliances such as CFL or LED bulbs instead of tungsten bulbs. Switch off appliances and gadgets when not in need. * Create a composting system at home. Segregate waste into dry and wet waste and dispose accordingly. * Use bio-enzymes or non toxic chemicals instead of products containing harmful chemicals. There are many eco friendly options if one want to make an effort. * Replace plastic and non biodegradable products with biodegradable options such as jute bags, bamboo toothbrushes, coconut leaf straws, steel water bottles, cloth sanitary pads etc. * Eat locally available food and locally manufactured and sourced products to live sustainably. * Volunteer for clean up drives or programs and encourage people around you to take up such activities * Be a responsible and aware citizen

Take action, our planet needs us to step up!