Guwahati: In a move to sensitize and educate the masses on lifestyle for environment (LiFE) actions for promoting sustainable living and helping people tackle climate change, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday launched Mission LiFE, a weeklong program initiated by the science technology & climate change department, in the State.
Inspired by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the mission in Assam will be followed by a weeklong series of activities at the district level addressing seven categories of LiFE actions during 22-28 March. The first day will be dedicated to save water, second day save energy, third day reduce single use plastic, fourth day adopt sustainable food systems, fifth day reduce waste, sixth day reduce e-waste and seventh day to adopt healthy lifestyle.
CM Sarma commented that global warming is an alarming threat which is looming large on the lives of the planet. As an outcome of global warming, unprecedented flood & drought, drinking water scarcity etc are becoming very evident with a plausible impact on the economy. In such circumstances there is a growing need for awareness among the mass to comprehend the adverse effects of global warming on nature, added Sarma.
He also said that over the last few years there has been considerable shrinkage of wetland and green coverage in the city. As a result, the people of Guwahati along with its neighbouring areas are facing acute problems with regard to their health. People may have theoretical knowledge of climate change and its adverse effects, but there is a need for everybody to change their lifestyle and take actionable steps to reverse the trends of environmental degradation, he added.
Referring to PM Modi, who has been advocating for clean and green energy, Sarma stated that in view of the nation’s vision for generating 500 gagawatt (solar power) by 2030, the State government has taken several steps to contribute to the nation’s march towards green energy. The State government has already initiated to produce 3000 megawatt solar power.
With an aim to reduce the carbon emission, the State government is introducing electric vehicles in Guwahati and by 2026 entire public transport will be run on non-fossil fuel and electricity, announced Sarma, adding that the government is also taking various nature friendly steps like using earthen wares instead of plastic cups etc. He expects that the effort will also help revive the earthenware market.