Celebration of the World Environment Day seems to be getting more and more traction with each passing year in Nagaland. It is indeed reassuring to notice an unprecedented number of people from all walks of life coming together for a cause greater than each individual. Reports have been coming in from all across Nagaland of concerned citizens and groups participating to mark the day. The environment is essential to our well-being. It provides us with clean air, water, food, and shelter. It also supports a wide variety of plants and animals. However, our environment is under threat. Climate change, pollution of all sorts, and deforestation are just some of the challenges that we face. Fortunately, there is a growing sense of awareness and consciousness among the people in general about the importance of protecting the natural environment.
In Mokokchung, WED 2023 was a huge success in as far as citizen participation is concerned. It is hoped that the momentum created will not fade away in the days to come. The theme for this year was on plastic pollution and this is a very critical subject. To be honest, the day was focused more on tree plantation and not on plastic pollution. Hopefully, even though the day has come to pass, conscientious citizens will not ignore the theme of this year’s World Environment Day. Plastic pollution is a real threat to the environment that we all care about. Conscious efforts must be made by each and every single member of the society to ‘beat plastic pollution’. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal responsibility and making lifestyle changes that aligns to the ideal of a plastic-free society.
It is true that plantation drives are important. However, we must also retrospect on how successful we have been in ensuring that the saplings planted over the years have actually grown into trees. Further, it is also important to consider what species of trees we are planting. It has been scientifically proven that planting and growing indigenous species are far more effective in restoring biodiversity of a region. While planting ‘exotic’ species of trees are welcome, growing indigenous species must also be encouraged. We should also plan properly while planting saplings. Random plantation will prove to be problematic in the long run.
Rejuvenation of springs and natural water bodies as propounded by the Mokokchung DPDB is of utmost importance. Every ward in the town and every village must be encouraged to undertake measures for rejuvenation and conservation of such water bodies. The RRR Centers initiated by the Mokokchung Municipal Council is another noteworthy accomplishment. The number of people participating in this initiative was overwhelming, to say the least. It is hoped that WED 2023 will leave a lasting impact on the people of Mokokchung.
Meanwhile, it is pertinent to note here that any effort to contribute to environmental protection by individuals and groups should be properly planned out. If needed, experts must be consulted. Many times, our intentions and the outcome of our actions don’t quite complement each other. For instance, open burning of trash (which is actually unlawful) after conducting a cleanliness drive.
All in all, the celebration of WED in Mokokchung was a success. Congratulations! It was a great opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment and the need for everyone to do their part. It was also a great opportunity to come together as a community and work towards a common goal.
It is hoped that the momentum created by the celebration of WED in Mokokchung will continue and that the people of the district will continue to work together to protect their environment.