The environment is a crucial element of human civilisation. Since the dawn of civilisation, people have gradually shaped their surroundings. Plant and animal life develop in harmony with the environment, creating a close link between nature and humanity. However, human civilisation faces a significant threat today due to the increasing levels of environmental pollution.
Our environment encompasses everything that surrounds us, including plants, animals, houses, roads, rivers, mountains, and more. These elements are essential for healthy survival of humans and other organisms. When these components are damaged, the natural balance is lost.
The environment is a combination of both natural and man-made elements. Due to human ignorance and uncontrolled behaviour, the environment is becoming increasingly polluted, and biodiversity is under threat. Harmful substances produced by human activities, such as greenhouse gases, radioactive materials, industrial chemical waste, herbicides, and general waste, are seriously polluting the environment. In response, the government passed two laws-the Environment Conservation (Amendment) Bill 2002 and the Environment Court (Amendment) Bill 2002-to protect the country's environment. Unfortunately, these laws are not being properly implemented.
Due to the growing use of biofuels and the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) from industries, the level of CO2 in the atmosphere is increasing. The release of gases from various types of vehicles is also contributing significantly to environmental pollution. In addition, population growth and the indiscriminate felling of trees are causing deforestation. Air pollution from industries, brick kilns, waste, and greenhouse gases further worsens the situation. Household, market, and industrial waste, often drained into reservoirs, is polluting the water. As a result, the overall environment is deteriorating.
A pollution-free environment is essential for healthy living. Everyone must refrain from activities that contribute to pollution. Indiscriminate deforestation must be stopped, and tree planting should be encouraged wherever possible. For environmental protection, 30 per cent of the country's total land area should be forested. Alternative energy sources, such as solar and hydroelectric power, should also be utilised.
Sakibul Hasan
Department of sociology
Dhaka College, Dhaka
sakibulhasanlearning@gmail.com