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Initiating Change: A few practical steps to save the planet earth

Would you like to be a part of the campaign for safeguarding our planet after the world leaders return to their respective countries following the crucial agreements and negotiations at the United Nations Climate Summit (COP-28) in Dubai? Our participation counts, regardless of whether we were present at the COP-28 conference or not.
By KAMAL RAJ SIGDEL/ UPENDRA LAMICHHANE

Would you like to be a part of the campaign for safeguarding our planet after the world leaders return to their respective countries following the crucial agreements and negotiations at the United Nations Climate Summit (COP-28) in Dubai? Our participation counts, regardless of whether we were present at the COP-28 conference or not.


If we love our planet, we can be a true superhero in the quest to save the Earth. We do not need daring stunts like that in the movies; being an Earth hero requires only love and care. It's not about showing off or impressing others—it's about embracing our shared home. Here are some simple and practical ways to contribute to saving the planet earth.


Less consumption


Mahatma Gandhi once said that “Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's needs, but not every man's greed ”. That's why consuming less matters. Controlling our urge to consume is key. Overspending not only diminishes our belongings but also creates stress, and attracts pests. What's the point of buying beyond necessity? By avoiding this, not only will your space thank you, but so will the entire planet.


Focus on energy


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One can become brave not from consuming energy, but by conserving it. It's simple to do so. Turn off unused lights and gadgets, switch off LEDs when leaving a room, and cut down on AC usage. Leaving lights on indoors while we are outside doesn't add to our decency, only incurs extra bills to the electricity authority. If possible, embrace solar energy to light up our home—it brightens both our face and the Earth.


Greenery


We don't have to be a pro cyclist, but using a bicycle when possible makes journeys easier and saves energy. Opt for public transport or carpooling to cut down on individual energy use. Sharing rides not only helps others but also benefits the planet we all share. Additionally, consider using an electric vehicle for pollution-free travel to your destination.


Work hard, shop smart


Be mindful of the Earth while shopping. Avoid opting for short-lived fashion trends. Ensure that the fashion choices prioritize the planet by selecting eco-friendly products. Pay attention, especially to items like bags, considering the fashion industry's significant carbon emissions. Let's focus on environmentally conscious products. This small shift in awareness can contribute significantly to maintaining a cleaner Earth. After all, fashion production isn't solely for personal gain; it impacts our planet's health.


Nurturing nature


We give tremendous importance to parenting, yet we often overlook caring for our Earth, our universal mother. How can we claim to be good children if we neglect the well-being of our planetary mother? Shouldn't we honor and cherish Mother Earth, the ultimate provider for the world? Instead of sweating it out at the gym, consider channeling that energy into nurturing the Earth. Cultivating flower beds not only brings beauty to our surroundings but also brings a glow to your face, just as it does to your yard. Planting species that support biodiversity is crucial. After all, who doesn't know that trees play a pivotal role in purifying the Earth's air?


Emphasis on reuse


Sort our household waste diligently and practice reusing items whenever possible. Research conducted on several hundred households in Nepal revealed that over 80 percent of waste from an average lower-middle-class household can find reuse. The remaining 20 percent typically comprises plastics, metals, and similar materials.


Consider obtaining a compost bin or delve into making vermicompost to gather our daily kitchen scraps, producing the compost essential for our garden. Embrace the organic approach to transform waste into valuable compost, benefiting both our garden and wallet. Not only does this method save money on buying fertilizers, but it also contributes to the joy of growing organic vegetables while promoting a healthier kitchen and lifestyle.


Why miss out on such an opportunity? Consider donating or selling plastic and metal materials to recyclers. This action not only lightens the Earth's load but also our hearts’.


Transform into an environmental hero among our peers. Share insights on the significance of Earth and initiate a green movement. Even small tips and ideas can spark significant changes. Remember the words of Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." Start making a difference today.


Start practicing these simple tasks today and witness the changes by sharing our experiences with everyone. If not today, then when? Let’s realize that today is an auspicious moment to begin such crucial work. Act now. By doing so, the Earth will bestow its gratitude, and future generations will undoubtedly thank us for our efforts.

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