Thursday, April 22, 2010

Green is Not Just For Today

It surprises me (hmm, on second thoughts it doesn't) that Earth Hour (60 minutes of self-imposed darkness) gets more PR than Earth Day (24 hours, 22nd April. Today).

That's why I am always skeptical of overzealously-promoted 'events'. Yes, the intentions are very good and noble, but what consequent and consistent actions follow after that? Like, during Earth Hour events what do people do? Drink from plastic cups, and leave the rubbish behind? Burn candles? I'd rather they organise some kind of clean-up, tree-planting or something like that. It's turned into shameless self-promotion and trying to cash-in in the name of 'going green'.

Does is have to be an event endorsed by celebrities and cities and whatnots to result in affirmative action? Where are our leaders and industry in this? Err, Copenhagen Global Summit? What's that?

If we were to imagine Earth as a living thing (it is, duh) then imagine too that angry volcano Eyjafjallajökull is one giant pimple abscess that's bursting because we can't get our dirty hands off Earth's face.

It starts with each one of us, no matter how small your contribution. If you have not 'pledged' any action yet, today will be a good day to start.
  • Stop using non-biodegradable plastic bags. Decline plastic bags when buying small items. Better, bring and use your own bag when shopping.
  • Go paperless as much as possible. Recycle paper.
  • Plant something good. Like your own herbs and chillies and stuff.
  • Conserve water and energy. Turn off, switch off.
Do all this (and more) consistently, consciously. Not just for an hour or for a day. Little you and me (I?) make a difference, even though it's just a tiny little dent, it is still a dent :) Unless of course you feel no guilt at all then to each his own.

What will it take then for you to act?

*bows to imaginary audience and steps down from soapbox on a balmy Thursday afternoon*

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