Opinion This Earth Day, a reminder: There is no Planet B

Indian Express

23-04-2025

What does it take to sustain human life on Earth? The answer remains simple: Clean air, safe water, nourishing food, and access to the natural resources that allow us to live with dignity and purpose. Now ask yourself: Can there be any system, any kind of 'bank', from which we keep withdrawing these essentials endlessly, without ever making a deposit?
Surprisingly, there is. And it is nature itself, what many of us call Mother Earth. We have turned Mother Earth into a one-way bank account, mindlessly withdrawing while giving little or nothing back. Catalysed by consumption, greed, and the illusion that nature is infinite, humanity has entered an era of ecological overdraft. Our forests are vanishing; our oceans are choking with plastic and the air in many cities has become unbreathable. Groundwater reserves are dwindling and soil fertility is declining. Weather patterns have become erratic, with extreme events like floods, wildfires, and heat waves occurring more frequently. The Earth can no longer afford our greed.
As a reminder of humanity's responsibility to preserve Earth's resources for future generations, we celebrate April 22 as Earth Day. It is a day to reflect on the planet's health, educate communities about pressing environmental issues, and advocate for sustainable practices.
Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day has influenced global environmental frameworks, fostered international cooperation and inspired landmark agreements. However, it often gets reduced to symbolic gestures — a social-media post, a tree-planting event, a school skit. While awareness matters, this day is not just about optics. It is a powerful reminder to introspect, act, and shift from exploitation to stewardship.
India, one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, is making a crucial pivot toward sustainability. At the 2021 COP26 Summit in Glasgow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Panchamrit — a five-point agenda that includes achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, meeting 50 per cent of energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030, and reducing the carbon intensity of the economy by 45 per cent. These are bold goals and signal a clear shift from rhetoric to responsibility.
Solar energy has emerged as one of India's most powerful climate solutions. The International Solar Alliance, co-led with France, is reshaping global energy diplomacy. Domestically, initiatives like the National Solar Mission and PM-KUSUM are empowering farmers to use solar-powered irrigation, while large solar parks in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan are redefining how India powers its homes and industries. Solar power already contributes to over 15 per cent of India's renewable energy mix — and it is growing.
Electric mobility is another frontier. With schemes like FAME, the government is making electric vehicles more affordable and accessible. Indian Railways is committed to becoming net-zero by 2030. Meanwhile, cities are expanding public transport networks and investing in clean fuels.
India's biodiversity and wildlife conservation programmes have shown tangible success. Project Tiger and Project Elephant have led to population increases. India is now home to over 75 per cent of the world's tiger population. Wetlands are being protected under Ramsar designations. The Green India Mission is working to improve forest cover — not just in quantity but in ecological quality.
Urban air pollution remains a persistent threat, but interventions like the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) are gaining traction. Cities are receiving funds to monitor air quality, switch to cleaner fuels, and improve waste management. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, while initially focused on sanitation, has broadened its scope to plastic waste-segregation and composting. Water conservation, too, is evolving, with flagship programmes like Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Atal Bhujal Yojana and Namami Gange.
India's agricultural sector is also adapting. Organic farming is being encouraged through schemes like Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana. Micro-irrigation and climate-resilient farming practices are gaining ground.
Importantly, from the foundational Environment Protection Act to newer rules on e-waste, plastic management, and green building codes, India's legal framework is expanding to meet contemporary challenges. Meanwhile, campaigns like the Lifestyle for Environment (LIFE) initiative remind us that environmentalism isn't just about big policy — it's also about small, everyday choices.
Yet, we must acknowledge the gaps. Implementation is inconsistent across states. Climate finance is not at the scale required. Development and conservation are still seen as competing agendas, especially in urban planning. Illegal encroachments, deforestation and pollution continue despite the existence of laws and guidelines.
But here's the hope: The momentum is real. Sustainability is no longer a niche issue. It is entering mainstream governance, infrastructure planning, business strategy and citizen consciousness. From classrooms to boardrooms, the idea that we must live with nature, not against it, is gaining ground.
This Earth Day, let us not ask what nature can still give us. Let us ask what we can still give back. Planting trees is good. Reducing plastic use is essential. But we must go further. Consume consciously. Choose public transport when possible. Support policies and leaders who put sustainability first. Reconnect with nature, not just on holidays, but in daily life. Educate children to be Earth's caretakers. Push for accountability — from industries, governments, and ourselves.
If we continue on this path of unchecked exploitation, nature will not wait for permission to rebalance itself. Unlike a man-made bank, Mother Earth doesn't offer bailouts. Once we bankrupt this system, there's no Planet B. Let Earth Day be more than a date on the calendar. Let it be a turning point — for policy, people, and the planet.