Lacking: Sensitizing people about 'balanced use' of natural resources

By Vikas Meshram*

The world is constantly developing in various ways, but this development is also inviting numerous challenges and crises. While these problems persist, few are taking on the important role of addressing them. According to the World Wildlife Fund for Nature, the demand for resources has exceeded nature's capacity. With the rise of multinational corporations and market forces, the trend of overutilizing natural resources has intensified.

This overexploitation is creating new issues, and at the same time, global environmental crises are emerging. The rapid changes in climate and seasons, a direct result of meddling with nature, indicate that such interference could lead to major disasters for humanity. Melting glaciers, tsunamis, ice storms, droughts, and unseasonal rains are clear signs of this crisis.

For the past three decades, scientists have been concerned about what alternatives can be used in place of natural resources and which measures can help mitigate the impact of these natural changes. The United Nations is especially worried about the reckless exploitation of natural resources.

Coal reserves may last for at most 90 years, petroleum for 50 years, water for 50 years, and minerals for only 50 years. Beyond that, they are unlikely to sustain. Due to severe water problems, future water wars could erupt, especially in West Asia, where water wastage is at its peak.

From the perspective of natural wealth, India is one of the richest countries. However, the exploitation of natural resources is causing several problems and crises. Despite efforts to raise awareness, people remain uninformed. The waste of water has led to severe water shortages in thousands of fields and cities across the country, with drought-like conditions persisting in many areas year-round. Because of droughts, grain had to be imported, though the food crisis stems more from insufficient storage than from a lack of production.

Thousands of acres of land lie uncultivated, which, if improved, could resolve the issues of oilseeds and pulses. The central and state governments have launched several schemes to increase the production of oilseeds and millet, but despite these efforts, little has changed. Moreover, floods that occur annually in Bihar, Assam, and many northeastern states cause loss of life and property due to poor management. Fertile soil layers are carried away by rivers into the sea, which significantly affects agricultural output.

If proper water management is implemented, the scarcity of clean drinking water can be alleviated, and all the essential needs of daily life and agriculture will be met. After globalization, under the banner of liberalization and privatization, the central and state governments have given multinational companies a free hand to exploit natural resources.

Many natural resources in the country have either been exhausted or are on the verge of depletion

As a result, many natural resources in the country have either been exhausted or are on the verge of depletion. Furthermore, the exploitation of valuable minerals, forests, mines, and various chemical products has led to numerous environmental problems. Sensitizing the general public about the balanced use of natural resources can be effective. The central government, state governments, and non-governmental organizations can play a crucial role in this.

Water resources, gardens, forests, lakes, and other natural resources are continually being destroyed. Instead of blindly following Western lifestyles, we must selflessly embrace Indian culture. The principles of fair use, development for all, and respect for nature should reach everyone. However, the root cause of the entire problem lies in the lack of organizational knowledge.

It is essential to understand what is needed for a good life, in what quantity, in what form, when, and how it should be used. The judicious use of natural resources is crucial for maintaining environmental balance and securing our future. Adopting principles of sustainable development, using eco-friendly technologies, and recycling resources are necessary steps toward this goal.

Additionally, every section of society should participate in this process and contribute to environmental conservation. This will enable us to secure a safe and sustainable future for ourselves.

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*Social activist

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