On Tuesday, 28 July, we observe World Nature Conservation Day, to increase public awareness about the importance of protecting Earth’s natural resources. Our planet’s natural resources appear abundant, but many are finite if not managed correctly. We all depend on these natural resources – water, air, soil, plants, marine life, and much more – every, single day.
World Nature Conservation Day reminds us that we all must participate in protecting, preserving, and managing our natural resources in a sustainable manner, as the conservation of our environment is vital for all life on Earth.
We must understand that every living creature on earth is integral to the functioning of their ecosystem and the environment, which ultimately also benefits us humans. Orangutans, for example, help maintain the quality of tropical rain forests in Sumatra and Kalimantan, and well-preserved forests help reduce the rate and intensity of global climate change.
An article in the Guardian newspaper once found that a single ton of plastic waste reduces the environmental value by up to US$33,000. Another source states that the volume of global plastic waste is estimated to be around 6 billion metric tons. We cannot begin to fathom the economic value our natural world has lost due to plastic waste alone.
However, plastic is not the only problem threatening our environment. Our daily activities, and the industries we rely on, consume a huge volume of natural resources. It is estimated that around 80% of the world’s energy currently comes from fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas. These are sources that are non-renewable, meaning they are depleting by the day.
Meanwhile, deforestation and forest exploitation can cause the release of CO2 from carbon sinks and reduce their ability to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, in turn increasing air pollution. According to the World Health Organization, nine out of ten people worldwide breathe air containing high levels of pollutants and seven million people die annually from the effects of air pollution.
There are many simple ways to slow the rate of damage to our planet. We can stop using single-use products, such as plastic bags or straws, and replace them with reusable alternative, like tote bags or metal straws. We can also try to reduce our dependence on natural resources and disposable goods, and promote conservation efforts by providing support on public platforms, through donations, or with the purchase of ethical products.
Let’s start small! If we are willing to work together and support one other, then those first small steps can create a huge impact globally. Happy World Nature Conservation Day!
Text by: BOS Foundation Communication team