— Vijay Kumar Dhingra
Human nature often follows a familiar pattern — we create a problem, complicate it further, and once it spirals out of control, we raise an alarm. Ironically, we tend to seek solutions based solely on surface symptoms, rarely addressing the root causes. The ongoing environmental crisis is a stark example of this flawed mindset.
We speak eloquently against the use of plastic, yet take no serious steps to curb its production. Yes, we understand the economics attached to it. But shouldn’t the very survival of the human race outweigh the additional cost of cleaner alternatives?
We complain about water pollution, but rarely act against those who contaminate our rivers and lakes. Monitoring and regulation often remain low on the priority list for policymakers — many of whom are more focused on grandiose projects that serve their electoral agendas.
We continue to blame farmers for stubble burning and rising air pollution, yet fail to offer them practical, affordable alternatives. In effect, we resort to token gestures — treating symptoms instead of curing the disease.
Yes, we are now moving towards green energy, and the widespread use of solar panels and batteries is a positive step. But have we asked: What happens after 20–25 years when these devices reach the end of their lifespan? Is there any solid plan for their safe disposal or recycling?
Unfortunately, the answer is still no. Ask a policymaker and you may hear: “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.” Because the politician’s horizon is limited to a five-year term, and the bureaucrat’s priority is often to push maximum projects under limited budgets to please political superiors.
Someone must take the lead in breaking this cycle. We need thinkers and doers who can plan 30 years ahead — giving innovation time to develop, and making new technologies viable. Don’t we owe that much to future generations?
Each year on World Environment Day, we organize events and take pledges to raise awareness. But awareness alone is not enough. If we are serious about saving our environment, we must tackle the issues at their root — and this demands both individual responsibility and visionary policymaking.
As long as we dodge our responsibilities and rely on quick fixes, environmental recovery will remain a mirage — an illusion of progress with little real change. The time has come not just to think, but to act — decisively and sincerely.
Let’s stop waiting for someone else to act.
The healing of the Earth begins with us — and from within.
Inspire Positivity 