“Personally, I do not know whether humankind is alone in this vast universe. But I do know that we should cherish our existence on this precious speck of matter…the greatest gift that could be bestowed upon us. For all practical purposes, there is only one planet Earth.” – Ban Ki MoonEARTH has forever been a faithful friend to us. Regrettably, we have not shown the same level of love, loyalty or gratitude. From Industrialisation to leaving the tap on, we have trodden upon the bounties of clean air, fresh water, soil, trees and animals.

However, with the reality of global warming and the resulting climate change, it is becoming ever more important to rekindle public commitment and build community activism around the world for a safer Earth. Everyone must make that personal decision to become a good steward of the environment. The Environment needs us as much as we need it.

Every year, the United Nations observe special environmental days, weeks, years and decades, to raise awareness on the importance of various issues plaguing the environment. Further, they foster policy making, international goals and agendas which are needed for international cooperation and action on issues related to the environment.

The fact is, however, that these cannot be fully realised until persons all around the world become willing agents of change.

How to be a good steward of the Environment
 Learn about environmental issues
Numerous resources such as books, television, the internet and environmental educators are available to help you develop an educated perspective on environmental issues. Take some time to learn about the burdens many people face because of climate change, polluted seas, food scarcity, and lack of fresh water. Then think about what you can do to make it better.

 Start a kitchen or flower garden
In this corner of mother earth, Guyana benefits from huge amounts of fertile land. You can start a garden right in your own back yard. Observe the tender process from preparing the ground to watching everything grow, share a plate of your produce with a friend, see the variety of colours, and appreciate the importance of the earth for food. This is especially a great way for children to appreciate the quiet processes of the environment.
 Choose eco-friendly household products
Technology has advanced many to the detriment to our planet but has also made it possible to minimise some of that damage by the creation of some eco-friendly products. Today, many household products such as toilet cleaners, laundry detergents and window cleaners are available with fewer chemicals in them. Now is a great time to make that switch.

 Walk, ride or take the bus
Global warming happens chiefly as a result of greenhouse gas emissions. Reduce your carbon footprint by walking more, riding more or taking the bus instead of driving a car everywhere you need to go. You will end up spending less time sitting in traffic and get a lot more exercise which is also good for your health.

 Become an environmental volunteer
The time to act is now. You can volunteer right in your neighbourhood or community with a designated volunteer group or just with friends and family. Assist in an educational session, create a green space or help clean up some parapets. You are guaranteed to have a fulfilling experience as you become an agent of change.
Starting with these few tips will make you a good example for someone else. Now that’s a great start!

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: ‘Our Earth, Our Environment’, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown, or email: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com