Source: The Hindu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for rainwater collection, waste water management, and waste recycling on the 120th episode of his monthly radio show Mann ki Baat in order to create a sustainable future.
More than 11 billion cubic meters of water have been saved over the past 7–8 years thanks to newly constructed ponds, tanks, and other water-recharge facilities. Through their meager efforts, the citizens have been able to save 11 billion cubic meters of water across the nation.
He noted that a lot of items, including toys, stationery, handbags, and decorative pieces, are manufactured from textile waste as part of the push for sustainable fashion. Additionally, there will soon be new rental platforms that offer designer clothing for hire. Some groups gather used clothing, repurpose it, and give it to the underprivileged.
When it came to handling textile waste, some cities were also forging new identities. Haryana’s Panipat is becoming a major textile recycling hub worldwide. Bengaluru is also using cutting-edge technological solutions to forge a unique identity for itself. Using renewable energy and waste water treatment, Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, manages textile waste.
He declared that this year’s International Day of Yoga would have as its subject “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”
Model Question:
Q: Discuss the significance of water conservation and waste recycling in the context of sustainable development. Suggest effective strategies to promote these practices in India.
Model Answer:
Water conservation and waste recycling are critical components of sustainable development, ensuring resource efficiency and environmental protection. In a country like India, with growing population and urbanization, these practices are essential for addressing water scarcity and managing waste effectively.
Significance of Water Conservation and Waste Recycling:
- Resource Management: Efficient use of water resources ensures availability for future generations.
- Environmental Protection: Reduces pollution of water bodies and landfills.
- Energy Savings: Recycling reduces the energy required for raw material extraction and water treatment.
- Economic Benefits: Promotes circular economy and generates employment in waste management sectors.
- Climate Resilience: Enhances water security and reduces carbon emissions from waste decomposition.
Strategies for Promoting Water Conservation:
- Rainwater Harvesting: Promote rooftop harvesting and recharge structures in rural and urban areas.
- Efficient Irrigation: Encourage drip and sprinkler irrigation systems.
- Watershed Management: Implement community-driven watershed development programs.
- Water Pricing and Regulation: Ensure judicious use through proper water pricing and stringent regulation of groundwater extraction.
Strategies for Waste Recycling:
- Source Segregation: Promote waste segregation at source through awareness and incentives.
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Hold manufacturers responsible for post-consumer waste management.
- Waste-to-Energy Plants: Invest in technologies to convert waste into energy.
- Public Participation: Encourage community-level participation through self-help groups and NGOs.
Water conservation and waste recycling are integral to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) like clean water and sanitation (SDG 6) and sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). A multi-stakeholder approach involving government, industries, and citizens is essential to ensure long-term environmental sustainability in India.
