Our Role in Safeguarding the Environment

A very good afternoon to the Principal, teachers and students. I am sure you are all aware that today is World Environment Day, so I will speak about the role that we can play in safeguarding the environment. Humans, in their overzealous attempts to develop the world around them, have set in motion the process of its deterioration. Today, we hear of environmental problems such as pollution, acid rain, ozone depletion and the greenhouse effect. Though we cannot undo the damage that we have already done, we can prevent it from becoming worse. It is our duty to protect and preserve the environment, and thus, Earth. Of course, the first place to start is at home. As the world's population grows, so does the amount of household waste. Many things that we throw away-old newspapers, glass bottles, plastic and metal containers-are not waste, and can be recycled. We should therefore, separate our rubbish and make sure that we dispose off only those materials which really cannot be reused or recycled. This way, we will not only reduce the amount of waste material that has to be destroyed, we will help reduce the consumption of raw materials needed in industries manufacturing paper, glass, plastic or metal items. As consumers, we should make an effort to buy only environment-friendly goods. We should avoid products that are disposable and those that contain elements which may harm the environment. Instead, we should buy only those that can be reused or recycled and are biodegradable. In the future, experts predict, the world may suffer a shortage of clean water. Therefore, we need to reduce the consumption of water because waste-water treatment is expensive, and untreated waste-water may become a source of pollution. Industries use a lot of clean water for cooling their machines, and often pollute rivers and seas with untreated wastewater. Much clean water is wasted when we leave the tap on while we brush our teeth or take time off to lather on shampoo and clean water becomes waste-water when we flush our toilets. Some cities have already begun recycling waste-water. We should install water-saving flush systems in our homes and use water wisely. Perhaps recycled water can be used in toilets or in industries. We should demand that all industries treat their waste-water to curb pollution. The same goes for electricity. Conventional generators contribute to pollution and hydroelectric dams are a danger to the ecosystem in rivers. Turning off fans and lights when we do not need them is a good habit. Another is to replace all bulbs with energy-saving bulbs or fluorescent lights. We should also play our part in encouraging the use of alternative ways of generating electricity, such as solar energy, as this is an environment-friendly method that can also help save us money. Motor vehicles are a major cause of environmental pollution. Leaving the engine running while we dash into the store to pick up one or two items, or while we lock the gates to our homes, are all bad habits that contribute to air pollution. We should also reduce the number of motor vehicles on the road by car-pooling or using public transport. As responsible consumers, we should put pressure on car manufacturers to produce more environment-friendly cars. All these efforts can help reduce pollution by motor vehicles. Every little action on our part can go a long way to protect the environment. Whatever we do serves as an example for others. If we all get together and make an effort to save the environment, we can make a big difference. Thank you.

overzealous   extremely eager       biodegradable   can be reduced to natural or harmless elements

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