In a certain forest, two trees were very much upset because the lions deposited the remains of the animal carcass among the trees spreading foul odour in the whole forest. Frustrated by the situation, the trees resolved to get rid of the lions somehow. Though an elderly tree cautioned them of the possible risks, the two trees were adamant in their decision to chase away the lions from the forest.

On the following day, swaying in unison with the wind, the trees made terrific noise and created a frightening atmosphere. The lions, thinking that something terrible was about to happen, ran away from that forest. Soon the news spread in the villages around that there were no more lions in that forest, and so people came armed with sows and axes, entered the forest, and started chopping down the trees starting with those two disturbed trees. Then they realized their folly and the wisdom of the elderly tree.

As we commemorate in this month of March, World Wildlife Day (3), World Forest Day (21), and World Water Day (22), we need to recognize the harmonious balance between trees, animals, water and humans as the essence of a healthy ecosystem. Trees, often referred to as the lungs of the Earth, provide oxygen and mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. Animals too, both on land and in water, contribute to biodiversity, helping to maintain ecological balance. Water, the source of life, is indispensable for all living organisms. However, thoughtless human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and over-extraction of water resources jeopardize this delicate equilibrium.

Preserving biodiversity is vital for the survival of various species of flora and fauna and the overall health of the planet. Conservation efforts, reforestation initiatives and sustainable water management practices are of paramount importance to restore and maintain harmony among trees, animals, and water. Wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas play a pivotal role in safeguarding the endangered species and preserving their habitats.

We celebrate International Women’s Day on 8 March, globally acknowledging and appreciating women’s achievements and advocating gender equality in every field. Recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental and social issues, it is imperative to address the man-woman ratio in the context of preserving nature. Women, often disproportionately affected by environmental degradation, can play a crucial role in sustainable development and conservation.

As stewards of our planet, we must recognize and support the interconnectedness of plants, animals, the Earth, and human relationships. Supporting and maintaining the balance in nature is not just our responsibility; but it is our collective obligation that transcends boundaries.

Most of you are busy this month with your annual examinations. The Teenager Today wishes all of you a stress-free preparation, successful and cool execution and glorious results!

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World Environment Day (WED), celebrated every year on June 5, is the United Nations’ principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of our environment. First established in 1972, World Environment Day is of utmost importance to Mother Nature and her inhabitants. It is born of the awareness that the environment is our home, and preserving it for future generations is more crucial than ever today.

Ecosystem restoration!

World Environment Day has grown to become a global platform for public outreach, with participation from over 143 countries annually. Each year, WED provides a new theme that NGOs, communities, governments and celebrities worldwide adopt to advocate environmental causes. The theme of World Environment Day 2021 is Ecosystem Restoration. Pakistan will act as global host of the day, this year. World Environment Day 2021 will also see the launch of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

Ecosystem restoration can take many forms: Growing trees, greening cities, building gardens, changing diets or cleaning up rivers and coasts. The need to restore damaged ecosystems is more urgent now than ever. Ecosystems support all life on Earth. The healthier our ecosystems are, the healthier our planet and its people.

The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration aims to prevent, halt and reverse the degradation of ecosystems on every continent and in every ocean. It can help to end poverty, combat climate change and prevent mass extinction. The UN Decade runs from 2021 through 2030, which is the timeline scientists have identified as the last chance to prevent catastrophic climate change.

Why WED?

Ever since the first WED was celebrated in 1972, more and more people have begun to understand that we need to sustainably manage our planet’s resources and ecosystem. WED provides an occasion to raise awareness and teach friends and family that the physical environment is fragile and indispensable. Pope Francis says in Laudato Si, “This sister now cries out to us because of the harm we have inflicted on her by our irresponsible use and abuse of the goods with which God has endowed her. We have come to see ourselves as her lords and masters, entitled to plunder her at will.”

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