This World Environment Day, experts say it’s time to save us, not just the planet
This World Environment Day, experts say – it’s time to save us, not just the planet
On the occasion of World Environment Day, leading environment and health experts have come together with a strong message: saving the Earth is not just about trees and rivers -- it’s about saving our own lives.
“We must shift our thinking -- from trying to ‘save the Earth’ to saving ourselves. The planet will survive, but will we?” asks Amit Kumar Mishra, environmental science professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
His words are a reminder that pollution, climate change, and the destruction of nature are not distant issues, they are directly harming our health.
Dr. Siddhartha Mandal, Senior Research Scientist at the Centre for Chronic Disease Control, explains: “Air, water, soil, and climate -- all these affect our health. If we continue to take the environment for granted, it will turn against us. When we talk about diseases and health risks, we must include the environment as a major factor.”
Doctors today are seeing more cases of asthma, heatstroke, allergies, and even mental stress -- all linked to poor environmental conditions.
Arpreet Kaur, a teacher and environmental education advocate, says the solution must begin early: “Catch them young, grow them green. If we want a cleaner and safer India, we must teach children to care for nature. Schools, homes, and parents all play a role in building habits that last for life.”
She believes that love for nature is built in childhood, and this awareness helps shape responsible adults.
This World Environment Day, experts are asking every Indian to think beyond slogans and focus on small, daily changes, saving water, reducing waste, planting trees, and talking to children about climate and nature.
As Professor Mishra said, saving the environment is not just for the Earth, it is for our own survival.
