“The first step in being a part of the solution is to not be a part of the problem”.
It becomes very difficult for us to suddenly accept that many of our activities of daily living are problem creators, “I’ve been doing this all my life… my parents have lived their life the same way and so have my friends”. Unsustainable habits and practices are many and they’ve infiltrated so deeply and effectively into our lives that life without them seems unimaginable.
The challenge now for those working on environmental issues to answer one question,” Is it better to concentrate on stopping unsustainable practices or, is it better to allow convenience to prevail and redesign lifestyle to make ‘comfort’ sustainable?” After all, the individual is looking for the ’service’ rather than the item per se, in most situations. For example, in a cold area a family need a ‘warm house’ and dont really mind how their house is kept warm as long as it is affordable, acceptable and available. If someone were to design a solar warmer for that family which would provide warmth in a similar manner as an electric warmer, then the family would accept it because the ’service’ of warmth has been achieved.
Several brands in the market are now coming out with energy efficient alternatives and gives the choice to the consumer. In many cities, rain water harvesting and sewage treatment plants are being made compulsary by the authorities. The question is – will steps like this be enough to answer the problem?
Obviously we had to start from somewhere and with someone. As increasing number of people become more active in their involvment with local and world issues, things may gradually take their course for the better.
