In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, do you believe there is a connection between the global outbreak and the climate crisis?
The coronavirus pandemic is a result of human activities. The scientists have claimed, it was originated in an animal market in Wuhan, China where the virus jumped species. For decades, humans have encroached upon the natural habitat of animals and have engaged in the massive multi-billion dollar wildlife trade. When the animals are moved from their natural environment and kept in cramped, filthy conditions they develop diseases. If these animals were left untouched in their natural habitat, this may have never happened.
As for the connection between coronavirus and the climate crisis, since the world has entered the lockdown we have seen clearer skies and cleaner air, the rivers have become pristine, and thousands of flamingos have descended to Mumbai. Carbon emissions have dropped due to human inactivity—but it is not enough. However, this is proof that the environment can recover and there is a way we can build a sustainable Earth.
During this global lockdown, how is your collective operation carrying out activities? Especially because this is a crucial time for spreading awareness on climate.
All field activities are on halt right now. Our team has been focusing on creating awareness through social media. We have been video conferencing to continue our efforts. We have also been tweeting and posting on different social media platforms to increase our reach. In June, we’ll be launching our website to further reach people.
What kind of a planet do you visualise 20 years from now?
A greener planet, where life in all its varieties and forms flourish. An Earth that is more equitable and empathetic to all life forms and environment. To achieve that, we need to be conscious of every choice we make and ensure that it’s sustainable and ethical. Whether we buy clothes, food, or travel we need to keep our carbon footprint in mind.
To achieve a greener and sustainable Earth we need to support organisations and people who work in the same space. As consumers, we have immense power to drive demand and if we all demand sustainability, the producers will have to comply.
What are your ultimate goals to address the climate crisis?
Farmers are vulnerable to extreme drought conditions because of climate change. All the people who don’t have adequate access to resources, health care, and shelter are exposed to the consequences of climate change such as heatwaves, harsh winters, erratic monsoons, and other climate-induced calamities.
Our ultimate goal is to drive climate action and mitigation efforts at all levels of society. We want to help the communities that are more vulnerable to the consequences of climate crisis and environmental degradation. For instance, communities living in coastal areas are vulnerable to the rising sea levels and cyclones. Tribal communities are dependent on forests for their livelihood and are vulnerable to deforestation.
What do you think can and will mobilise the youth to become actively involved in crucial causes?
Not everyone has access to information and resources about the climate crisis and the consequences it will have. Which is why the first step is to create awareness. When an individual becomes aware of the gravity of a situation and its impact, they will realise change is necessary. This will mobilise the youth.
The youth’s opinions are often brushed aside, especially in serious matters like climate crisis. How do you plan to climb this obstacle in your journey to save the environment?
Our voices are brushed aside as our elders think that we don’t know enough or we shouldn’t be talking about this. However, the facts about the climate crisis are out there and they are clear from the beginning. Climate crisis is going to impact everyone. There is no escaping from it. So, we pursue a narrative where we make it personal for the people we are trying to convince. Personalising how it is going to impact them is one way of making them understand the seriousness of the crisis we are facing.
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