World Environment Day: 9 easy and impactful ways to protect our planet

India Today

03-06-2025

On World Environment Day, it becomes increasingly vital to recognise a fundamental truth: the health of our planet and the health of its people are deeply interconnected. Environmental degradation isn't just a threat to biodiversity or the climate — it's a direct concern for public health.By Dr Anupama Sardana, General and Critical Care Physician at Holy Family Hospital, Bandra, Mumbai (MBBS, DNB Medicine)advertisementDr. Sardana explains that, as a practising physician, she frequently witnesses the impact of environmental factors on her patients' health. 'Whether it's deteriorating air quality, contaminated drinking water, or an unsustainable food system, all these environmental issues eventually manifest in the clinical setting,' she says. However, she emphasises that it goes beyond just medical symptoms or hospital visits.
According to Dr. Sardana, our personal choices, everyday actions, and overall attitudes toward the environment play a pivotal role in shaping not only the planet's future but also our well-being. By embracing sustainable habits and advocating for eco-friendly practices, individuals can actively contribute to a healthier world — and, in turn, healthier lives. This World Environment Day serves as a timely reminder that protecting nature isn't a distant or abstract concern — it begins with each one of us.advertisementSome of the simple and effective methods to help one become healthier and at the same time make the planet healthier are:1. Eat mindfully:An environmental diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains greatly reduces the carbon footprint. It also plays a major role in preventing non-communicable diseases that are induced by hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. At least one plant-based meal a day goes a long way for both your body and the environment.2. Type 2 diabetes: Walk and cycle more, drive lessAlong with lower carbon emissions, choosing to walk or cycle a short distance instead of the car may increase ability, reduce stress levels, and maintain a healthy body weight. It is a simple way to keep your heart and lung systems working for you.3. Plastic-free: Endocrine health protectionThis includes materials that wreck the environment in ways similar to endocrine disruption. Better options are glass bottles, steel bottles, and BPA-free reusable bottles, along with natural food wrapping.4. Invite nature insideConsistent exposure to fresh air and natural sunlight supports good moods, circadian rhythm, and seasonal affective disorders. Ventilating your house and bringing in natural daylight help conserve energy and promote good sleep as well as emotional stability.advertisement5. Choose clean, safe productsCommercial cleaning and cosmetic products often contain chemicals that are environmentally toxic and too harsh on skin, lungs, and immunity. Switching to natural, fragrance-free, or eco-certified products lowers exposure to allergens and carcinogens, as a better long-term health choice for your family.6. Dispose of medical waste responsiblyThrowing expired drugs in the rubbish or flushing them down contaminates soil and water. Unused medicines should always be returned to a chemist or hospital collection point. At Holy Family Hospital, biomedical waste disposal procedures are strictly adhered to, and communities are also encouraged to do the same.7. Address eco-anxiety and emotional wellnessYoung patients now report feeling helpless and anxious about climate change; this is what is called "eco-anxiety." As physicians, we suggest individuals channel those feelings into small, fruitful actions, such as participating in cleanups, planting trees or cutting down on waste, that provide a greater sense of purpose and optimism.8. Community health is climate healthParticipating in community activities, whether tree-planting, rainwater harvesting, or waste segregation programs, not only helps serve the environment, but it also builds social cohesion and mental well-being. It is terribly uplifting and empowering to belong to an active community so conscious of the climate.advertisement9. Preventive health means health promotionPreventive health largely concerns minimising the stress imposed on health infrastructure in terms of resource use and long-term effects. This has basically reduced preventive measures such as regular check-ups, immunisation, stress management, and screening for very early stages of illnesses. A healthy population demands fewer resources and generates less medical waste.On this World Environment Day, let's understand that taking care of the Earth isn't a separate task — it's part of our personal, professional, and public health responsibilities. Sustainable living is smart medicine.