If we can all be a little more mindful of our surroundings, then we can play a vital role in combating global warming
ISLAMABAD: Global warming is creating catastrophes in the lives of people and leaving devastating effects on our planet. We fail to notice the damage it has already caused; for example, the melting of glaciers, rising sea levels and consequent flooding. There are also extreme weather changes such as hurricanes and cyclones.
The increase of deforestation definitely has a negative impact on the environment. Cutting down and burning forests has led to the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This massive undertaking by humans is slowly but surely killing our planet. Therefore, we must adopt certain practices to mitigate the damage. This includes the execution of the ‘3 Rs’: reduce, reuse and recycle. We must also explore solar energy to generate fume-free energy. We should also reduce waste. When waste is burned, which is a common practice especially in Karachi, it releases toxic gases adding to global warming. Therefore, with recycling, landfills that are major contributors of toxic gases can be reduced dramatically.
Other little ways that can help range from not using too much hot water, not purchasing items with lots of packaging and turning off lights and other electronics when not in use. If we can all be a little more mindful of our surroundings, then we can play a vital role in combating global warming.
Hammad Hassan
Published in The Express Tribune, December 19th, 2016.
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