---- Steps to be taken to preserve the natural environment ----

Steps to be taken to preserve the natural environment

Original picture from Royal National Park NSW Australia (Taken on xiaomi red note 2).

Planet earth, our natural habitat, our home. Mankind has existed on this planet for more than 200,000 years and in that time we have grown and evolved into what would be classified as the dominant species. We have adapted and found means of inhabiting some incredible corners of the earth. During this process we have also created a footprint on our environment, we have impacted our surroundings in a negative way. Be it through ignorance, naivety, greed or more, we have damaged this sanctuary we call home. This has been our actions for generations before us and many have chosen to bury their heads in the sand when it comes to the acknowledgment of these actions, the understanding of this impact, planning effective interventions, and creating positive change.

The concept of trying to preserve the natural environment is not new. Arguably one of the most recognised projects attempting to aid the planet would be Greenpeace formed in 1969. There are also many examples of various localised environmental groups attempting to halt negative impacts worldwide and trying to reverse the impact of human existence on the planet. With all of these movements in effect it can be a daunting thought when it comes to compiling a concept of what steps can be taken to preserve the natural environment as it seems so much has been tried without success.

The science and studies can be alarming when observing the effects of the results of man-made climate change, Chernobyl, Exxon Valdez Oil Spill, Fukushima, Pacific Gyre Garbage Patch, etc. The presentation of this data by the media can leave us feeling as though all of this is far beyond our control and that we cannot have an effect on these kinds of events. This could not be further from the truth, we each have choices to make each and every day which can have a direct impact on these events if we allow ourselves to believe in the power of the people.

The revolt of the people we saw in the 70s has long faded into the night, a distant memory of a simpler time when we could stand for something and implement change. We have slowly been conditioned to accept what we are given, to think we cannot make a difference, this is our new social climate. But this can change, we can choose a new direction. This can be done by making better choices for the long term benefit of the environment. Go green, switch to renewable energy products, reduce our footprint. Research companies that care for the environment and buy their products. Repurpose and recycle. The way we choose to spend our dollars is a vote of approval for the company. These are but some of the basic concepts which can be promoted to influence change through self-awareness.

The greatest step that can be taken to preserve the natural environment is mankind’s self-awareness. Yes, this may sound incredibly over simplified, but it is a key element to what is trying to be achieved. Many people are so focused on day to day existence that they are unaware of the power that lies within them to make positive changes in the world and environment. Each of us has the power to create change by being aware of what we are doing ourselves to support negative impacts to the environment and implement the formation of new habits which are of benefit to the environment.

Conclusion

Mankind must awaken from the long slumber which has enveloped our consciousness, refuse to be complacent in these matters and be vigilant in their efforts to send a message to the governments, multibillion dollar companies and conglomerates around the world that we will no longer support their greed and destructive nature. We will no longer accept what we are given. It is up to the people of the world to intervene. This is exemplified by a concept put forward by Albert Einstein which was that “The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who standby and do nothing.”

There are many steps which can be taken to improve the environment, but It is clear and evident that the first and most important step to be taken to preserve the natural environment is a shift in consciousness and awareness. To paraphrase Mahatma Ghandi we need all need to be the change we want to see in the world.

Article written for essay writing contest held by @sayee: Steps to be taken to preserve the natural environment and is supported by @steemiteducation