World Environment Day is observed on June 5 every year to promote awareness on the importance of preserving our biodiversity, the need to identify problems related to the environment and ways to take corrective action.
It is an occasion to tackle environmental challenges that include climate change, global warming, disasters and conflicts, harmful substances, environmental governance, ecosystem management and resource efficiency.
Like other developing countries in the world, India too is plagued by many environmental issues.
According to data collection and environment assessment studies of World Bank experts, between 1995 through 2010, though India has made one of the fastest progress in the world, in addressing its environmental issues and improving its environmental quality, the country still has a long way to go to reach environmental quality similar to those enjoyed in developed economies.
Pollution remains a major challenge and opportunity for India. Environmental issues are one of the primary causes of disease, health issues and long term livelihood impact for India. The latest urban air quality database released by the World Health Organization (WHO) says that India ranks among the world's worst for its polluted air. Out of the 20 most polluted cities in the world, 13 are in India. The report reconfirms that most Indian cities will soon becoming death traps because of very high air pollution levels. India appears among the group of countries with highest particulate matter (PM) levels. Compared to other cities. Delhi is among the most polluted cities in the world today.
Last year, the Global Burden of Disease study pinned outdoor air pollution as the fifth largest killer in India after high blood pressure, indoor air pollution, tobacco smoking, and poor nutrition. About 620,000 early deaths occurred in India due to air pollution-related diseases in 2010. The fact of the matter is that Indian cities are witnessing a rapid increase in air pollution and untamed motorization. Cities need to curb pollution from all sources, but vehicles need special attention as they emit toxic fumes within our breathing zone.
Besides, government’s approach in tackling environmental issues, each individual, organization (both govt and private) need to act fast in taking remedial measures to arrest all kinds of environmental problems. A great amount of onus lies on the new government which should essentially come out with a proactive and positive environment agenda, strengthen environmental oversight and go beyond clearance of projects to take urgent steps and water pollution, sanitation and regeneration of forests and water bodies; and provide access to clean energy to all.
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