By Er. Gargi Mishra
Nature is the foundation of human existence,providing essentials like clean air, water, soil and food for our survival. However, deforestation, pollution, resource overexploitation, and industrial expansion are causing environmental degradation. Nearly 1 million species are at risk of extinction, and climate change is causing extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and desertification. Conservation helps preserve biodiversity, mitigate climate change, and sustain natural resources.
World Nature Conservation Day promotes actions to protect Earth's natural wealth for present and future generations.World Nature Conservation Day is celebrated annually on July 28,highlights the urgent need for the conservation of natural resources and biodiversity as well as reminds the world of our responsibility to protect and preserve the natural environment. As climate change intensifies, biodiversity declines, and ecosystems face increasing pressure, this day urges individuals, communities, and governments to take conscious steps towards sustainability.These issues compromise human health, economics, and quality of life in addition to wildlife and ecosystems. In order to protect vital natural resources, the day promotes the adoption of sustainable behaviours and increases awareness of the interdependence between humans and the natural world.
Originating in India, the day is supported by organizations like the ENVIS Center and the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
How do individual actions impact large-scale conservation efforts?
Individual actions can fuel large-scale change by influencing collective effect, behavioural norms, and cultural shifts. Collective influence, such as adopting eco-friendly habits, reduces strain on ecosystems and natural resources. Behavioural norms and cultural shifts can transform wasteful products into ethical trends. Grassroots movements, such as beach clean-ups and tree-planting drives, can spark environmental policies. Governments pay attention to constituents' concerns, and public petitions and votes can sway environmental legislation. Digital influence, such as social media movements and citizen science apps, can inspire thousands of people to take action.
Global Conservation Efforts
International agreements and movements are vital for environmental preservation.
Organisations such as WWF, Greenpeace, and IUCN work tirelessly to protect species and natural habitats.
How can we Participate
Small, consistent efforts can lead to significant change in environmental practices.
Examples include reducing, reusing, recycling, planting trees, conserving water, supporting sustainable brands, educating and advocating, and protecting wildlife.
Constant choices like planting trees, choosing eco-friendly transportation, spreading awareness, and practicing recycling contribute to a greater change.
Adopting simple habits, practicing water and energy conservation, teaching future generations, and participating in awareness programs can also contribute.
It encourages collective actions for a strong, healthy, and sustainable future.
World Nature Conservation Day is a reminder that our actions today will shape the environment, our children receive tomorrow. Hence “Protect Nature: Protect Future”, is widely acknowledged as a product of international environmental movements and organizations, particularly in India.
The author is an accomplished researcher, holding a Master's degree (M.Tech) additionally PGIPR law. with diverse expertise spanning across fields, including Biotechnology, Genetics, Life science, Clinical research, nutrition, IPR Law, environmental science, bio conservation, Molecular biology, Computer sc. etc. She has significantly contributed to government Research centres and Universities as well as various private sectors, applying her expertise to address critical challenges and drive meaningful progress.
(DISCLAIMER: This is an opinion piece. The views expressed are the author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)