Here the question rises – which is the better way of living – Sustainable or luxurious living? The Human race with the growth of the modern techniques and lifestyles has become ignorant about the environment. In short humans have got this addiction to automatic lifestyles. Erecting a luxurious house, automatic equipments and machineries or showcasing the latest technical possessions is the main objective of each individual today. A walk in the garden has become tiresome and boring while sitting under an air conditioned roof is much preferred. Technologies have advanced to a level where almost anything can be obtained by just pressing a button.
The most sought after word is ‘Development’. Development is the fundamental process around the Globe. Globally development is being achieved in every sector except in the case of the environment. The nature has turned haughty and now there is hue and cry among the people. From past few years the climatic conditions and the ecosystem is showing serious signs of devastation. Humans have forgone the fact that a healthy ecosystem and environment is necessary for the survival of human race and other organism. The human impacts on the atmosphere are such harsh that the nature is losing its balance. The wetlands are being occupied illegally and plants and trees are cut out to provide more and more space for human activities and erecting buildings and roads. Carbon emission, deforestation and extinction of the small water bodies and wetlands are major reason for the cause of ecological destruction.
This rapid rise in urbanization brings with it tremendous challenges – people need housing, infrastructure, water, food and jobs, as well as rising pollution and social inequality issues. Urbanization is a great concept when, it is achieved by maintaining the balance. Environmental factor is an integral part in the process of development. Urban living can move in two ways – being urban in a devastating way or being sustainable urban. Moving towards sustainability is also a social challenge. It entails better urban planning and transport, local and individual lifestyles and ethical ways of living. Eco villages, eco municipalities, green building, sustainable agriculture, sustainable cities, sustainable architecture, green technologies, renewable energy and adjustments in the individual lifestyles are few ways of sustainable living.
It is estimated that more 50% of world’s total population resides in cities and urban areas. These large communities provide distinct advantages to further refining and working towards the goal of sustainable city. Contrary to the common belief, proper urban planning is much beneficial and environmentally sustainable than the rural and sub urban areas. With proper planning, management and environmental friendly innovation human needs and the balance in the environment can be achieved. Infrastructure is the most common thing which leads to destruction of trees and plants. Green building, green roof, eco valleys are few of the answers to maintain the green environment. Creating Eco Industrial Park will help in generating low industrial waste. Focus on both the public and individual household areas equally important.
When it comes to implementing sustainable initiatives 10 cities are leading the way around the world. Melbourne, Copenhagen, Mexico, Bogota, Munich, Rio-De-Jenerio, New York, San Francisco, Singapore and Tokyo are among them. From cutting down of carbon emission to renewable energy and recycling waste product these cities are contributing towards a sustainable environment. A lot of effort has been made by these cities to create an eco friendly environment. The infrastructure of a city is the most fascinating thing which one gets influenced to. These cities have targeted on developing the sustainable and urban infrastructure planning. Both the households and public infrastructure are built with the concept of sustainable architecture. Most of these cities are advance in infrastructure and energy efficiency. Carbon emission, waste management, solar energy and urban transport in these cities are highly commendable. The governing bodies in these cities have stated that by the year 2030 they will have pollution free and sustainable society.
Achieving sustainability will let our mother earth continue to support human life. There is an old saying ‘A stitch in time saves nine.’ A step forward by every individual can bring a greater change. However Sustainable living doesn’t mean to be underdeveloped or adopt unsophisticated lifestyles. In fact it feels more pleasant to live in traffic choked and pollution free clean cities. The green cities are much eye soothing and charming in contrast to the noisy and carbon emitted cities. A responsible society and an enthusiastic Government can bring a lot of change for a better environment.
