The environment is a space we live in, our homes, offices, schools, places of worship, parks, and community areas. The immediate environment refers to the surroundings we interact with daily. It is one of the factors that plays a crucial role in our health, well-being, and overall quality of life. Unfortunately, due to some human activities and negligence, many local environments are now rampant with pollution, insecurity, and poor infrastructure. What we failed to understand is that every individual could make a difference. That's where the question pops up, "What can I do for my immediate environment?".
- Keep it clean: This is one of the many things I can do for my environment. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve my environment even though many still find it tasking. Cleanliness shouldn't be a cause for debate; it should be everyone's priority, as it impacts human health. Proper disposal of waste, avoiding littering, and participating in clean-up exercises. This is why I applaud my community leaders, every weekend is always set aside for cleanup. Where the leaders would go round to see how clean every surroundings are and fine anyone who's found lagging in the area of cleaning, as we all know, "cleanliness is next to godliness". A clean environment reduces diseases and promotes a sense of pride in the community.
- Promote and practice recycling:- Waste is a major challenge in many neighbourhoods. All I think I can do to reduce it is by promoting and practicing recycling. Instead of throwing everything away, separate recyclable materials like plastic, paper, and glass. Items like bottles, clothes, and containers can also be reused. By reducing waste, we can protect the environment and as well as conserve resources.
- Beautify my surroundings:- This is one thing only a few people engage in and those few are the ones that had the knowledge of how beautiful it is to plant trees. Deforestation is now the order of the day and everyone seems to be cool with it. Planting flowers and trees in the compound and surroundings wouldn't be a bad idea at all. It would only make it look more attractive. Trees not only provide shade, but also absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving air quality. Planting a few potted plants at home would definitely go a long way.
- Raise awareness and educate others:- Acquiring knowledge should be a choice everyone should make. A change begins with knowledge. Many people are careless about their environment because they do not know better. A difference can be made by educating one's family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues about the importance of environmental care.
- Encourage sustainable practices:- First thing I will cut some slack on is reduce the use of plastics, saving electricity and water, and avoiding unnecessary burning of waste. This is about using resources in a way that won't hurt future generations.
The best way to inspire others is to lead by example, which is demonstrating environmentally friendly habits that others can follow. I know that my immediate environment is my responsibility. The reason why many environments are in chaos is that inhabitants are waiting for the government and NGOs to begin the change, which might not be possible in the years to come. Protecting our environment is creating better lives for ourselves and the generation to come.
Thanks for your time and your comments will be appreciated.