Protecting our Earth : Advancing sustainable development through climate action and forest conservation
- Part 2 -
Marjing Mayanglambam *
Consultation on Climate Change in Manipur and COP28 of UNFCC in December 2023 :: Pix - YFPHR
4. Enhancing Education and Awareness
Education and public awareness are essential for fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
Educational programs on climate change, conservation, and sustainable prac- tices should be integrated into school curricula to build environmental literacy from a young age. Media campaigns, public seminars, and community workshops can further educate people about the importance of climate action and forest conservation.
Informed citizens are more likely to support environmentally friendly policies and adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.
As a young person, I believe I have a powerful role to play in climate action and forest conservation, starting with the choices I make every day and the conversations I engage in. One of the first steps I can take is to reduce my carbon footprint by using public transportation, biking, or walking instead of driving, and by being mindful of my energy use at home.
Simple actions like switching off lights, using energy-efficient appliances, or reducing water consumption can collectively make a real diffe- rence. I can also support forest conservation by consuming less single-use paper and wood products, buying sustainably sourced items, and choosing plant-based options more often, as our food choices impact deforestation.
Beyond my personal habits, I can advocate for larger changes by joining or supporting local environmental organizations, participating in tree- planting events, and volunteering for local conser- vation efforts.
I see my voice as another critical tool for change; I can share information, educate my peers, and even reach out to my local representatives to push for stronger environmental policies and renewable energy incentives.
Using social media, I can raise awareness about climate action and forest conservation, inspire others to get involved and build a community around sustainability. Even in school or university, I can advocate for recycling programs, green spaces, or campus initiatives to reduce waste.
By making sustainability part of my lifestyle and engaging others, I’m not only contributing to environmental protection but also inspiring a broader movement for change among my generation.
To get help from the government in saving the Earth and protecting the environment, I can start by advocating for stronger environmental policies, such as stricter regulations on pollution, the promotion of renewable energy, and the protection of forests. I can reach out to local representatives, attend public meetings, or participate in campaigns that push for environmental change.
Govts often offer grants, funding, or incentives for green projects, so I can look for opportunities to apply for these resources to support community-based conservation or sustainability efforts.
Additionally, by supporting political candidates who prioritize environmental issues, I can help ensure that the government takes meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future. If I were to advise young children about what they can do to help with climate action and forest conservation, I’d start by saying that even small actions matter, and they have the power to make a big difference.
I would encourage them to start by taking care of the world around them — things like planting trees, helping in the garden, or even just picking up litter in their neighbourhood can have a positive impact.
I’d also suggest they take care of nature by learning to respect animals, plants, and trees, understanding that they are all connected in the world we live in. I would tell them to always try to use less plastic, because plastic harms animals and takes a long time to break down. Instead, they can use reusable bottles, bags, and containers.
I’d encourage them to save water, turn off lights when they don’t need them, and always recycle paper, plastic, and cans to make sure they don’t end up in the trash. Most importantly, I’d tell them to talk about what they learn — whether it’s at school, at home, or with friends — and share the message that protecting the environment is fun and important.
They don’t have to wait until they’re older to make a difference. If they get involved in activities like planting trees, taking care of animals, or even organizing small clean-up events in their community, they’ll already be helping.
In this way, they can not only help the Earth but also inspire their families, friends, and everyone around them to take action, too. I’d remind them that, even though they’re young, every little action counts and that together, we can all protect the world for the future.
In conclusion, protecting our Earth through climate action and forest conservation is not just a matter of environmental responsibility; it’s a commitment to a healthier, more resilient, and just world for ourselves and future generations.
As I see it, these strategies aren’t isolated goals—they’re deeply connected threads that hold together the fabric of sustainable development. By addressing the root causes of climate change and deforestation, we’re not only safeguarding biodiver-sity and ecosystems but also investing in the long-term well-being of societies around the globe.
I recognize the challenges involved, from powerful economic interests that resist change to the political and financial hurdles faced by many communities and nations. Yet, I firmly believe that collaboration can help us overcome these barriers. Governments, organizations, local communities, and each of us as individuals have a role to play.
If we strengthen policies that protect natural resources, embrace technologies that support low carbon living, and include diverse voices in the conversation, we can create a more sustainable and equitable world.
What inspires me most is the role of local and Indigenous knowledge in these efforts.
These communities have lived in harmony with their surroundings for generations and bring invaluable insight into how we can manage and protect the land. When we involve and empower these voices, conservation efforts become more inclusive and impactful, rooted in respect and shared responsibility.
Ultimately, I see sustainable development as a journey that we’re all on together. The actions we take now — reducing emissions, conserving forests, investing in resilience, and prioritizing education and community engagement — will determine the future we leave behind.
For me, this isn’t just about what we’re saving but about the world we’re building: one that respects nature, values diversity, and prioritizes long-term well-being. We have a long way to go, but I’m hopeful.
With dedication, compassion, and a shared sense of purpose, we can combat climate change, preserve our ecosystems, and create a sustainable legacy for generations to come.
Concluded.....
* Marjing Mayanglambam wrote this article for The Sangai Express
This article was webcasted on January 19 2025.
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