“The natural world is like the foundation for everything we think, do, and experience in life,” says Nandini Velho, distinguished wildlife biologist and a crucial part of the #SaveMollem movement. “It’s like the starting point for how we live, observe, and connect with the world around us,” she adds.
The connection humanity once held with nature is slowly getting severed as the world develops. It then becomes crucial, especially for younger generations, to connect with the planet that has birthed them. We’re all living through challenging times – the hottest year, the hottest months, and the hottest days. “The environment has to be our common denominator, the bottom line, the full stop, the exclamation mark and whatever it means to you,” says Nandini.
The youth is the future caretaker of the planet, which makes environmental awareness and education fundamental to their upbringing. “Encouraging sustainable activities and promoting environmental awareness can help our youth to appreciate the significance of preserving our natural resources for the generations to come,” says Anushka Gomes, the project coordinator for Live Happy NGO.
Over and above participation in sustainable activities, the key is to adopt a lifestyle that is mindful of its impact on the environment. “A great place to start is by reducing waste, conserving energy at home, work, or school, and making eco-friendly choices,” says Anushka. “These actions will not only help the environment but can also save money and promote healthier living,” she adds.
“It doesn’t have to always be huge steps,” says Niharika Yadav, a 20-year-old from Dabolim. “But simply switching off lights and using your own cloth bags instead of plastic when you shop can go a long way,” she adds. “It is not that difficult to do the basics of being sustainable.”
“I have a habit of picking up trash when I see any lying around,” Niharika says. She adds, “My family always carries our own boxes when we get food packed from outside.” She also says that the reason why she cares and does work for the planet is because she has seen her parents do so -- which brings forth the importance of leading by example.
“If you’re looking to find your own slice of peace and happiness in nature, there are so many things to get involved in,” says Nandini, “You can start a nature club at school where you can chat about the environment.”
Navy Children School in Dabolim has an eco-club that collects milk packets from all the students and teachers in the school to send them to a recycling plant. “The milk packets are turned into plastic pellets,” says Adwait Nair, a 12-year-old member of this club. “These can be used not only to make more milk packets but also for blocks for furniture,” he adds.
Adwait was also part of the team that participated in Goa’s largest climate clock assembly and display, which was attended by over 50 schools in Goa. “The climate clock tells you how much we have to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius,” says Adwait. “At the moment it is around 5 years and 345 days.”
Activities sponsored by schools and parents can make a huge difference in the way a young person looks at the world. “Through farming, you’ll get to know awesome folks in places like Chicalim, Curtorim, Taleigao, and Farm de Goa, Goa Green Brigade,” says Nandini. “If you’re into birds and conservation, the Goa Bird Conservation Network might be your thing. Like Arati Das and Dr Usha Desai, you can even start your own tree walks to explore Goa around you.”
“Goa is widely known as a tourist-friendly state, with both the government and business owners investing heavily in its promotion,” says Anushka. “However, what if a portion of this budget was allocated to waste management and sustainable tourism?” she asks.
This would not just preserve the state’s natural beauty, but also be of benefit to the local communities in Goa. “We must examine their impact on the environment; including waste and noise pollution, as well as substance abuse,” Anushka adds, “Only then can we ensure that tourism in Goa is truly sustainable and safe for the environment.”
Live Happy NGO’s ‘Sustainable Living project’ envisions a heritage walk in Assagao. “This initiative aims to bring attention to the neglected heritage of the region and educate students about the history of the community,” says Anushka. “The heritage walk is a great way for students to learn about their surroundings and understand the impact of their actions on the environment,” she adds.
“Sustainability is more than planting trees. It also means stop wasting clothes, food and energy,” says Komalilka Banerjee, a 21-year-old based in Saipem.”You never realise where unused clothes go,” she adds.” There are billions of unused clothes that contribute to landfills and so many of them are not biodegradable.”
Komalika also says that she cut out Air Conditioners and has stopped using them since the pandemic. “I would look outside and see an AC in everyone’s house, and they would be running all the time,” she said. “I still want to do more -- for instance, I want to turn to vegetarianism.” But she acknowledges the trouble that comes with giving up old habits, “It is not easy, but I think if the younger generation gives sustainable living a chance, we can reach a pivotal moment of change.” she says.
A retreat into nature really opens eyes, especially for those who live in cities. “I do think that the government could try doing this for the youth,” Komalika says, speaking of sponsored trips for young people in cities.”You need a few moments away from the noise, and then your minds opens up to the alternatives you have,” she says.
“Finding your happy place involves staying curious and, above all, asking questions. That’s what the natural world needs,” Nandini says. “Ask questions of your MLAs, your ward members, your professors, adults, and your peers.”
She adds, “The natural world has a growing tribe of those who appreciate its beauty, but going one step further means lacing up, booting up, and organizing to empower what a future full of forests should look like for us.”