On World Environment Day observed on June 5, several politicians and political parties were seen planting saplings to mark the day. Every day of the year needs to be observed as World Environment Day. If one is really concerned about the environment then there should be a stop to the rampant destruction of trees and hill-cutting activities which are carried out for real estate development. It takes several years for trees to grow but a few minutes of madness to cut it down. A symbolic gesture of planting a few saplings will not address the issue which is contributing to climate change in a big way globally. Van Mahotsav week is celebrated in the first week of July to spread awareness about forests and plantation drives are carried out. Initiatives like distribution of saplings, plantation drives and awareness sessions on the need to grow more trees need to be carried out in schools. The need to protect our environment should be emphasized among young impressionable minds if we are to protect our planet. By just planting a few saplings the responsibility does not end. These saplings need to be nurtured and cared for till they grow up to become strong trees. Otherwise the vagaries of nature or stray cattle will destroy these saplings. It is pertinent to note that in Singapore every student has to plant ten trees in order to graduate.
