World Environment day 2025: Bridging tradition and technology for a sustainable future
Dr. Annapurna Boruah is a renowned academic, geoscientist, energy exploration expert, and social entrepreneur. She actively contributes to various initiatives, including the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG)'s I-HAV program, the Ministry of Education's Innovation Cell, WWICCI, AAPG, and more. Her impact on the academic field is evident through her extensive publications. Alongside her professional achievements, Dr. Annapurna is a folk dancer, trained in Sattriya classical dance, a proficient classical singer, and a state-level debater. In "Times of Terra" featured in The Times of India, Dr. Annapurna shares her insights, stories, and solutions that strive to create sustainability and equity for all. LESS ... MORE
As the world observes World Environment Day on June 5, 2025, under the theme 'Beat Plastic Pollution,' it is a moment to reflect on our environmental journey—from ancient traditions to modern innovations.
Traditional Wisdom: A Legacy of Environmental Stewardship
India's rich cultural heritage offers profound insights into sustainable living. India's eco-friendly traditions include using leaf plates (patravali), clay pots for cooking and storing water, and cow dung as natural fuel and disinfectant. Sacred groves (devrai) preserve biodiversity, while festivals like Makar Sankranti use biodegradable kites. These age-old practices reflect a deep respect for nature and sustainable living. Traditional homes are built with mud and bamboo, naturally regulating temperature. These customs showcase sustainable living, long before modern environmentalism emerged.
India's rich tapestry of environmental activism is woven with stories of communities and individuals who have stood resilient in the face of ecological challenges.
In 1730, in the village of Khejarli, Rajasthan, 363 Bishnoi villagers laid down their lives to protect a grove of Khejri trees from being felled by the Maharaja's men. This selfless act, led by Amrita Devi, became a symbol of unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.
In the 1970s, the Chipko movement emerged in Uttarakhand as villagers, led by women like Gaura Devi, embraced trees to prevent their felling. The movement's slogan, 'Ecology is permanent economy,' coined by Sunderlal Bahuguna, resonated globally. A 5,000-kilometer trans-Himalaya march by Bahuguna further galvanized support, leading to a 15-year ban on tree felling in the region.
In 1979, 16-year-old Jadav Payeng began planting bamboo on a barren sandbar in the Brahmaputra River. Over decades, his solitary efforts transformed the area into a lush forest spanning over 300 hectares, now known as Molai Forest. Home to diverse wildlife, including elephants and rhinos, Payeng's dedication showcases the profound impact of individual action on environmental restoration.
In the 1970s, the proposed construction of a hydroelectric dam threatened the pristine Silent Valley rainforest in Kerala. Activists, including poet Sugathakumari and ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, rallied against the project. Their efforts culminated in a High Court ruling halting the deforestation, preserving the valley's rich biodiversity.
Initiated in 1985 by Medha Patkar, the Narmada Bachao Andolan opposed the construction of large dams on the Narmada River. The movement highlighted the displacement of indigenous communities and environmental degradation. Despite challenges, it brought global attention to the socio-environmental costs of large-scale development projects.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the proposed Tehri Dam in Uttarakhand faced opposition due to concerns over seismic risks and ecological impact. Activist Sunderlal Bahuguna's fast unto death drew national attention, leading to a government assurance to review the project. While construction continued, the movement underscored the need for sustainable development practices.
Philosophical traditions like the Vedic hymns in the Rigveda and Atharvaveda celebrate Earth (Bhumi) as the mother of all beings, emphasizing living in harmony with nature . Such principles resonate with modern environmental ethics, highlighting the timeless relevance of these teachings.
Across the globe, various cultures have intertwined spirituality with environmental consciousness. In Taoism, concepts like 'wu wei' (non-action) and animism promote living in balance with nature.
These diverse traditions collectively underscore a universal truth: sustainable living is deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual values.
Despite these rich traditions, the modern world grapples with environmental degradation. Despite these rich traditions, the modern world faces serious environmental problems. For example, India generates over 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste every year, and only about 60% of it is recycled. Cities like Delhi and Mumbai struggle with air pollution—Delhi often ranks among the world's most polluted cities. Water bodies like the Yamuna River remain heavily polluted due to industrial waste and untreated sewage. According to the World Bank, India is among the top 5 countries most affected by climate change. These issues show that despite our heritage, urgent action is needed to protect the environment today.
Advancements in technology offer promising solutions to environmental issues. In the realm of transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) are at the forefront of reducing carbon footprints. Smart technologies, such as AI-based predictive maintenance and IoT-enabled charging infrastructure, enhance the efficiency and sustainability of EVs, making them a viable alternative to traditional vehicles . Globally, innovations like hybrid wind-solar systems and offshore floating wind turbines are revolutionizing renewable energy generation. These technologies maximize energy production while minimizing space usage, crucial for urban environments . India, too, is making strides in renewable energy. As of October 2024, the country's cumulative renewable energy capacity reached 203.18 GW, marking a 13.5% increase from the previous year. With a target of 500 GW by 2030, India is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy .
Innovations tackling plastic pollution include biodegradable plastics made from seaweed or corn starch, plastic-eating enzymes like PETase, and upcycling waste into products. Technologies such as ocean-cleanup devices, waste-to-fuel plants, and digital recycling platforms like Recykal are transforming plastic waste management and promoting a more sustainable, cleaner environment. Several Indian startups are leading the fight against plastic pollution. Zerocircle, creates biodegradable packaging from seaweed that dissolves in soil or water. EcoKaari upcycles plastic waste into handmade bags and accessories using traditional looms, blending sustainability with livelihood creation. In Kerala, the DROP project by Munambam fishers has recovered over 22,000 kg of ocean plastic by collecting waste caught in fishing nets. Additionally, Bioyug On Wheels promotes biopolymer use through India's first mobile awareness campaign. These innovations show how creativity and community can offer real solutions to the plastic crisis.
A Call to Action: Integrating Tradition with Innovation
World Environment Day serves as a reminder that environmental conservation is not a modern concern but a timeless value. By integrating traditional wisdom with contemporary technology, we can forge a path toward a sustainable future. As Mahatma Gandhi aptly stated, 'Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's needs, but not every man's greed'. Let this principle guide our actions as we strive to protect and preserve our planet for generations to come.
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