Young professionals : high time to breathe clean

Following the recent torrential rains, we have witnessed how pollution has ruined our drains and rivers. It was such a shame to see so much garbage around. What are the possible solutions? How can we preserve our environment for future generations? Young professionals provide some possible solutions to breathe clean.

Ishan Rye : “Engineering controls and governance approaches”

The easiest way to curb the negative impacts of pollution is to take a pre-emptive approach, that is to reduce our consumption, says Ishan. “Engineering controls and governance approaches to solve the problem of pollution are indeed effective. But these methods are reactionary in most cases.

The buck stops with the individual when it comes to pollution prevention. Our excessive need to consume and to follow the path of least resistance has created a situation where we absolve ourselves of personal responsibility when it comes to the health of our biosphere. Understanding the interconnectedness between the anthropogenic aspects of life and the natural world is the ultimate way forward. That is the miracle solution that everyone is looking for.”

Husnoo Bibi Warda : “Pollution prevention is needed”

Warda Husnoo argues that attempts to reduce environmental pollution are gradually gaining momentum. “Environmental education has taught us a lot about saving the environment and preserving nature but sadly, most of us do not walk the talk when it comes to contributing to this environmental issue. In Mauritius, pollution has, unfortunately, reached an alarming stage. One of the measures is pollution prevention, which will help in protecting natural resources while at the same time strengthen economic growth through more efficient production in industry and less need for households, businesses and communities to handle waste.”

Another important step to curb pollution, as highlighted by her, is mass sensitization campaigns and education. “Many people are still ignorant of the effects of pollution on the environment, hence, their waste disposal patterns. If the public is better informed, efforts to reduce pollution will be more effective. Reducing pollution further requires efforts both by the Government and citizens.”

Khoushna Mudhoo : “Start with simple acts”

Each person can contribute something to alleviate pollution, believes Khoushna. “If we heal the earth, we heal ourselves. We can start by considering the task that we do in our daily life itself. Simple acts such as planting more trees, not wasting water, usage of cloth bag and not burning plastic can help coping with this alarming matter.

More measures in terms of making sustainable energy choices, such as turning off lights and electrical appliances when not using them as well as looking for small changes that can result into big energy savings and hence, help in mitigating pollution. Human beings should stand up for clean air. The use of environmentally friendly chemicals and getting regular maintenance of vehicles play another big role in providing a bit of relief on this issue.” 

Ishta Rakman : “Diminish affecting the earth”

Understanding the different types of pollution and how it is made frame the initial phases in finding the most ideal approach to stop it, states Ishta. “There are numerous things you can do to diminish affecting the earth. Each activity or inaction of any individual distresses the earth.

Stop smoking or don’t toss your butts on the ground. Cigarette butts are not biodegradable and contain to a great degree poisonous solvent chemicals. One butt tossed on the ground can stay for up to 25 years. Utilize reusable water bottles, not dispensable.

Exorbitant waste from our general public is an issue. It is best to have one water bottle that you refill as opposed to utilizing dispensable restrains that end in the waste, in the city, and in a landfill, or perhaps drifting down a stream, in a lake, or in the sea.”

Sabiah Heerah : “Sustainable energy production is needed”

Pollution is now a major concern, despite considerable efforts that are being made to clean up the environment, remarks Sabiah Heerah.

“The prevention and reduction of pollution is not a one man’s job, it requires the equal participation of each and every individual in society. It therefore begins with the sensitization of the population. Individuals should be made aware of the importance of preserving the environment.

Moreover, the application of the 3 R’s: Reducing, Reusing and Recycling of waste will also lead to a considerable minimisation in waste production. Finding new ways for sustainable energy production from renewable sources and cutting down on conventional pollution causing fuels will also be highly beneficial.”