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We Asked: What should be our New Year resolve to solve environment-related issues, and help our biosphere to recover?…
The beginning of a new year is a time for reflection, renewal, and resolve. Human activities like deforestation, pollution, habitat destruction, overfishing, and climate change are driving biodiversity loss. These actions disrupt ecosystems, lead to species extinction, and diminish genetic diversity. The loss of biodiversity weakens ecosystem resilience, jeopardizes food security, and impacts essential services like pollination, water purification, and climate regulation, threatening global sustainability. The biosphere, the delicate layer of life that supports all living organisms, is under immense strain. The health of our planet is at a tipping point due to deforestation, pollution, climate change, and loss of biodiversity. It is our collective responsibility to act before it’s too late. Resolutions to reduce our environmental impact and work toward restoring balance to the biosphere will be: Support reforestation and biodiversity: Forests are the lungs of the Earth, and their restoration is crucial. I plan to actively participate in tree-planting drives and support initiatives that protect natural habitats. Also, I will advocate for sustainable farming practices and biodiversity conservation to protect endangered species. Reduce carbon footprint: I will adopt sustainable habits to minimize my carbon footprint. This includes conserving energy by using energy-efficient appliances, carpooling or using public transportation, and adopting a more plant-based diet. These actions collectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a major contributor to climate change. Combat pollution: Reducing waste is essential to curbing pollution. I will aim for a zero-waste lifestyle by reusing, recycling, and composting. Avoiding single-use plastics and supporting biodegradable products. Promote renewable energy: I will try to promote renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. I will encourage the adoption of clean energy solutions in my community and invest in renewable energy for my personal use wherever possible. Raise awareness about the global challenges due to environmental degradation: Education is a powerful tool for change. I will use my voice to spread awareness about environmental issues and inspire others to join the cause. -Dr Kuruvilla Thomas, IFS(R), Administrative Member, Kerala Real Estate Appellate Tribunal, Ernakulam
Net zero emission! This is the resolve we have to make to help our planet heal. Today global warming or climate change is the biggest challenge before humanity. Global warming is caused by to unlimited increase in the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that are emitted by human activities like the burning of fossil fuels as coal and petroleum products, vehicular emissions, industries, and others. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere as they allow the sunlight to pass through them but prevent heat from going from the atmosphere. This is what is called the Green House Effect. Carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), etc. are the main greenhouse gases. The result of the Green House Effect is the increase in the atmospheric temperature. More emission means more increase in temperature. The effect of such an increase in emission has been such that the atmospheric temperature has increased by 1.1°c above the average temperature since the start of the Industrial Revolution (1850-1900). With the same rate, it may increase up to 4°c by the end of the century. This will be unbearable to humans and other living creatures apart from disastrous climatic changes causing storms, hurricanes, cyclones, floods, droughts, glacier melting, increase in sea levels, loss of food production and so many others. Sensing the gravity and urgency of the problem the world community under the auspices of the UN Environment Program (UNEP) has started to handle the problem of global warming and emissions and targeted to restrict the rise in temperature up to 1.5°c with respect to the start of the industrial revolution Era by the end of the century. This is only possible by restricting the emissions in phases and ultimately reaching net zero emissions. Net zero emission is the state when emission is fully countered by absorption. This is possible first by reducing emissions and offsetting them by absorption and removal from the atmosphere with the help of carbon sinks like oceans and trees and other technologies. This process is called carbon sequestration. Recognizing the urgency and a number of national governments and businesses are making commitments and fixing targets to reach net zero emissions between 2050-2070. How big this problem of global warming is, the common man is not understanding and taking it lightly as just a technical term. But the reality is that this is the greatest danger of the 21st century. Still, the good thing is that it is not beyond our reach to resolve it. When we create it, it is in our hands to resolve it. We have just to control and stop those activities that are responsible for emissions. We have to replace thermal energy with renewable energy as most emission is created from the burning of fossil fuels. We have to grow more plants and trees. We have to replace traditional vehicles with electric vehicles. We have to save energy in our houses and use more public transportation than individual transportation. When emission and absorption become equal there will be a state of net zero emission and then only humanity will be saved. -VP Srivastava, Member Commercial Tax Tribunal (retd), President C-CARBONS
As we welcome the New Year, we have a unique opportunity to come together and pledge to protect our city's environment. Agra's natural beauty, rich heritage, and iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal are deeply intertwined with its environmental health. The responsibility to safeguard this heritage lies with each one of us. Agra faces pressing environmental concerns, including air pollution: Vehicular emissions and industrial activities have led to deteriorating air quality. The smog not only affects the health of residents but also tarnishes the beauty of the Taj Mahal. Water scarcity: The Yamuna River, which runs through Agra, is threatened by pollution and over-extraction. The river's declining health impacts both the ecosystem and the water supply for the city. Waste management: Improper waste disposal has become a significant environmental concern. Piles of garbage in public spaces and the lack of effective waste segregation contribute to pollution and health hazards. To address these challenges, citizens can take the following steps: Adopt sustainable practices: Reduce plastic use, opt for public transport or carpooling, and plant trees. These small changes can collectively make a big difference in reducing pollution and conserving resources. Conserve water: Fix leaky taps, harvest rainwater, and avoid water wastage. Simple actions like turning off the tap while brushing teeth can save significant amounts of water. Manage waste effectively: Segregate waste, compost kitchen waste, and recycle. Proper waste management reduces the burden on landfills and promotes a cleaner environment. Citizens can organize: Clean-up drives and collaborate to clean public spaces and water bodies. Regular clean-up drives not only beautify the city but also foster a sense of community and responsibility. Awareness campaigns: Educate people about sustainable living and environmental conservation. Awareness campaigns can be conducted in schools, colleges, and local communities to spread the message of environmental protection. Workshops: Conduct workshops on sustainable practices, waste management, and water conservation. These workshops can provide practical knowledge and skills to implement eco-friendly habits in daily life. This New Year, let us resolve to work together towards a more environmentally sustainable society and our fragile biosphere. Every individual can pledge to adopt at least one eco-friendly habit and inspire others to follow suit. Together, we can help our cities thrive and contribute to global efforts to protect the environment. By taking collective action, we can ensure that Agra remains a city of beauty and heritage for future generations. Let's make 2025 the year we commit to making a positive impact on our environment. - Brij Khandelwal, noted journalist and environmentalist, Agra
As we enter the New Year, let us resolve to address the pressing environmental challenges threatening our planet. Climate change, deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss demand urgent attention. Here are key actions to prioritize: Adopt sustainable practices: Minimize waste through reducing, reusing, and recycling. Use eco-friendly products, cut down single-use plastics, and conserve water and energy in daily life. Shift to renewable energy: Transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. Advocate for clean energy policies and consider adopting solar panels for personal or community use. Restore ecosystems: Support afforestation, conserve forests, and restore degraded lands. Engage in efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats, fostering biodiversity. Promote sustainable agriculture: Choose locally grown, organic produce to reduce the carbon footprint. Encourage sustainable farming practices that conserve soil health and water resources. Advocate for policy change: Support laws aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, controlling industrial pollution, and protecting natural resources. Engage with policymakers and communities to drive meaningful climate action. Raise awareness: Educate yourself and others on environmental issues. Inspire collective action by sharing sustainable practices and solutions. Prem Saran Nagar Colony in Bijnor, Lucknow, exemplifies these resolutions in action. The community has adopted eco-friendly practices, such as operating a sewage treatment plant (STP) with treated water used for agriculture, rainwater harvesting, and waste segregation. They produce compost, plant fruit trees, grow organic vegetables, and host plastic-free events. Solar panel installations further showcase their commitment to renewable energy. Residents of the colony collaborate to maintain & support the colony farm. This community proves that consistent, collective efforts can drive significant change. Let their example inspire us to make bold strides toward a greener, healthier planet in the New Year. Protecting the Earth is not just a choice but a shared responsibility.
-HN Singh, environmentalist, Bijnor
I, Deepali Bahadur, personally think as we step into the new year, it becomes our responsibility to solve environment-related issues on our planet Earth. We should join hands to overcome this problem and help our biosphere to recover. The first thing in this direction is that we should stop the usage of plastic in our daily lives. Our world would be much better and peaceful for some of the living organisms when we switch to reusable bags and glass jars. We should refuse plastic bags, straws, and water bottles and opt for reusable alternatives. The next big step is to decrease energy consumption. We should turn off lights, fans, and electronics when not in use. It saves electricity. It is also important to conserve water by closing taps to save it. The most crucial one is the plantation of trees. Plantation drives should be encouraged by planting dozens of saplings and giving our environment a greener look. It is the need of the hour to save our Planet from depletion. We should not cut trees; we should support local sustainable businesses which help Mother Earth and the People around us. Sugarcane waste is burnt, which is causing pollution in the atmosphere and creates smog that we should put an end to. Factories should be situated away from cities as the waste that comes out and the smoke from chimneys do affect public health. Another factor is that vehicles emit black smoke which pollutes the environment and results in common health problems. Every vehicle should have a Pollution-free certificate by regularly getting it checked for pollution. The biggest problem for the world and wild animals is deforestation So, We should minimize the use of paper and other wood-based – products because they are the main reason for deforestation. Another solution to this whole vehicle pollution thing is to start carpooling to reduce pollution in the air. For short distances, We should use bicycles or metros. We should make people aware of the chemicals we are burning ultimately depleting the ozone layer of the Earth and ruining the future ahead of us. We all have seen the Cases in Delhi. So, My opinion is to make all the people fully aware of all of this and make the world a better place.
-Deepali Bahadur, entrepreneur
Deadly wildfires, catastrophic flooding, and hurricanes created hell on Earth for millions of humans and other animals in 2024. Yet, while the planet burns, humanity is fueling the fire—literally—with its addiction to meat, dairy, and eggs. If we’re serious about restoring our biosphere, there’s one resolution we all need to make: Go vegan. It’s not hard in our bountiful land where we are truly feeling the heat but witness both drought and floods. 2024 will be the hottest year on record, thanks to human activities, according to The World Meteorological Organization. Copious amounts of planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions are traced back to animal agriculture—nearly 60% of farming’s greenhouse gas emissions. And as the planet heats up, more moisture enters the atmosphere, leading to more intense storms. According to the Global Climate Risk Index 2021, India is ranked 7th among the most affected countries by climate change and is already facing its worst impacts. This is because its geographical diversity, large population, and socioeconomic challenges make it susceptible to a range of climate-related hazards. The unprecedented heavy rains and flash floods in the Himalayan regions last year alone have estimated losses worth Rs 1,140 crore and several lives. Cyclone Asna (August 2024) brought torrential rains to Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, leading to extensive flooding. In Gujarat alone, 49 lives were lost, over 4,000 kilometres of roads were damaged, and the state incurred losses exceeding Rs250 crores in public infrastructure. A recent study: "Assessment and Quantification of Methane Emission from Indian Livestock and Manure Management", conducted by researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) and the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), that Indian livestock releases about 12.74 teragrams of methane each year. This is roughly 13% of global livestock methane emissions, with dairy cattle being the largest source, making India one of the top contributors. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has a global warming potential 28 times greater than carbon dioxide over a span of 100 years. This system is as destructive as it is wasteful: Raising animals for food consumes 83% of global farmland yet provides a mere 18% of our calories, according to research from the University of Oxford. This cruel food system steals land, water, and resources from animals in nature, who are losing their homes and lives in record numbers. According to a United Nations report, some 1 million animal and plant species are currently facing extinction—a number greater than we’ve ever known. As we enter this new year, remember that almost every single minute, a patch of forest the size of a football field is destroyed—much of it to clear land for grazing cows or to grow crops to feed them, a rate of 6-20 times the number of crops we could eat ourselves without funnelling them through an animal’s body. Take soybeans. They are versatile, delicious, and bursting with rich flavour. This superfood generates five to fifteen times more protein per acre than meat and dairy. If humans got all their protein from soy—instead of animals—deforestation could be reduced by 94%. The soybean’s impressive efficiency is exactly why animal agriculture uses them in the first place. The industry also feeds animals corn, wheat, barley, and oats—all of which could be cultivated for humans instead. That’s also a lot of carbon-storing trees—and a lot of animal homes, including those of birds and terrestrial wildlife. At this rate, it should come as no surprise that animal agriculture is responsible for 91% of Amazon deforestation alone. Meanwhile, rivers and oceans are poisoned by agricultural runoff, such as chemicals used in “modern” farming, manure, and offal, creating massive dead zones where no life can survive. The good news? We have the power to change things. A worldwide shift to vegan eating could cut greenhouse gas emissions from food by up to 73% and free up 75% of agricultural land—an area the size of the U.S., China, and Europe combined. Think of all the habitats we could restore and how many trees we could plant with that amount of land. So, please, let’s fill our plates with plants. And let’s ponder what animals raised for food endure because of our desire for their flesh, eggs, and milk. Workers force many of these sentient beings to live in cramped spaces, unable to move about and stand on their own faeces. And, instead of feeling everything wonderful nature has to offer - a breeze, the sunlight, watching the dawn - they feel pain, abuse, and neglect—culminating in a horrifying, petrifying death. This year—and this reader—can change everything. But only if we act. So, in 2025, let’s resolve to go vegan. And let’s save the world or at least a part of it.
| -Dr Kiran Ahuja, Manager of Vegan and Corporate Projects for People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India
This New Year we can use the occasion to make some special resolutions like freeing the world of pollution, poverty, and environmental destruction. The simplicity of this “New Decade Resolution” lies in choosing to make everyday activities that help to create a better world. Small changes to your daily routine in the new year can help to reduce the environmental impact of your lifestyle and protect the environment. Being vegetarian: The single most important thing an individual can do for the environment is to adopt a vegetarian diet. Protect the animals' planet, help end world hunger, and foster a kinder, gentler society by shopping and eating vegetarian. Reduce waste: Reduction in waste material by reusing, recycling, and minimizing waste near your circle For example, making paper from recycled stock instead of virgin materials saves trees and takes 60% less energy. Purchase reusable over disposable, and buy safe, non-toxic household cleaners and body care items. You can also use reusable utensils, straws, and bags more focus should be on alternatives to plastic packaging & on avoiding plastic to-go containers. Conserve water: Use water-efficient appliances, take shorter showers, and turn off faucets when you're not using them. Save water where you can as extreme weather conditions brought on by climate change are making our water supply unpredictable. There are many ways you can use less water such as only running your washing machine or dishwasher when full, and turning off taps when you are not using them. Choose eco-friendly cleaning products to help reduce the amount of chemicals polluting the air and water. Purchasing habits: Purchasing local, in-season produce saves you money and helps sustain local farmers. Buying organic produce guarantees that you, your family, and the farming community are safe from hazardous and toxic agricultural chemicals. Others: Select energy/water efficient household appliances, lighting, showerheads, etc. efficient household appliances, lighting, and showerheads Make paper from recycled stock. Additionally Volunteer for cleanups in your community. Donate to organizations that advocate for or conserve the environment. Educate others about environmental issues. - Manoj Kumar Chaturvedi, a bank employee, and animal activist, Lucknow, UP
Nothing is more important than the health of our biosphere, because it is the only self-sustaining system that contains, supports, and propagates all life on earth. If even a small part of the biosphere changes, all life on Earth is impacted. In recent times, climate change and over over-exploration of resources have threatened the very structural integrity of our biosphere. The Planetary Boundaries concept identifies nine processes that are critical for maintaining the stability and resilience of the Earth system as a whole. Latest research has shown that six of the nine boundaries have already been transgressed. Thus, the situation is clearly dire and definitely calls for significant changes on a global scale. However, individual contributions cumulatively build up and contribute to that transformation. And it's not difficult. To impact the health of our biosphere positively, as responsible individual citizens, just 3 easy steps can make all the difference. Consume less: The more we buy, the more our earth's resources are abused and the more difficult it is to tackle disposal. Switch to paperless systems, and conserve electricity. Make simple changes on a daily basis - take shorter showers, turn off taps and switches when you leave a room, walk or cycle more. In short, be aware and conscientious as you go through the day. Consume consciously: Buy long-lasting eco-friendly products (but beware of greenwashing - take the effort to educate yourself on certifications and ecolabels that are authentic, scientifically robust, and based on comprehensive standards such as Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, etc), purchase energy-efficient electrical appliances, support sustainable agriculture by buying and eating local produce. Dispose responsibly: Reduce waste, recycle and compost at home, segregate your waste, and research to find the right places for waste recycling and disposal in your vicinity. A wicked problem is a complex, difficult, and often impossible-to-solve social or cultural issue. Sustainable production is not enough to tackle the sustainability challenge - one of the most 'wicked problems' staring the world in the face and threatening our very survival. Sustainable consumption is equally (if not more) important. What we consume, and how we consume drives production trends. So come to think of it, the power of transformative change lies in your hands and mine - the inconspicuous little consumer sitting at the far end of the production-consumption spectrum, with the power to change the world. What will you be doing this year to become a better consumer? What steps will you take to heal the world? -Shakuntala Majumdar, President, CPCA Thane
Topic of the month: Do you think we need better medical facilities for animals and strays, along with a dedicated 24-hour ambulance service? You may send your views (either in Hindi or English) in 300 words or more to [email protected]. Please also attach a colour photo of yourself.
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