Why environment friendly livelihood is the need of the hour

The world is grappling with the effects of climate change in today’s world . Rising sea levels erratic weather conditions , melting glaciers and sudden forest fires are all effects of climate change . But this change has not happened overnight , we have chosen to bring this upon ourselves . We have , over the years , modified our lifestyle to include elements that can bring sustained harm to our environment . It is our very day choices and very day decisions that can affect not only us but also our planet in the long run. Excessive use of vehicles have a direct co relation with the usage of fuel which are obtained from non renewable sources of energy and also increase the level of pollution . However , are we taking any actions to curb this menace ? Nowadays we cannot imagine our daily life without the use of plastics . From food storage container to carry bags to bottled water – the usage of plastic has become an every day affair . We know the consequences but we do not take any efforts to address the issue . Toxic chemicals have unknowingly entered our lives in endless forms added to this improper waste management system have compounded the effect . Almost every food that we consume is laced with chemicals through toxic pesticides application , usage of chemicals fertilizers and using harmful cooking elements . However , are we seriously doing anything about it. However, if our intentions are right we can take small steps to bring changes in our life and livelihood that can slow down the environmental negative impact . At Vanaja our attempt is to encourage the youth to not just take up actions against environmental degradation but also embrace livelihood opportunities that can uphold environment friendly living . It is also imperative to showcase traditional processes and products that are extremely environment friendly but are gradually being replaced . This is the reason we are supporting production of Indian spices and native pulses that are grown without the usage of any chemicals , are dried and ground without the usage of mechanical equipment’s . This is how we are also encouraging the youth to usage of more effective yet lesser known environment friendly Neem and Mohua oil for multipurpose usage . We are supporting young people in making and selling 100% earth friendly soaps , face packs and hair packs that do not contain SLS or Paraben . We are celebrating the making and usage of beautiful fashion hand made jewellery with clay , jute and reused items. Instead of synthetic mats and bags we are encouraging the young people to make and sell bags , doormats , table mats and coasters using Baboi grass and jute material . We are making people believe that there can be beautiful home decors such as paper Chhou masks and bamboo craft decorative . We are also promoting environment friendly agriculture through 100% herbal fertilizers and pesticides made with neem oil, Mohua and other plant extracts . Purchase of these items would upscale the cause of environment as well as provide strong livelihood opportunities to the young people .