A Small Contribution to the Conservation of Environment - Byju Joseph

Courtesy: sentinelassam.com

Generally, we can't understand the genuine worth of the environment. However, we can assess a portion of significance can assist us with understanding its significance. It keeps up the environmental equilibrium that will keep a check on life on earth. It gives food, sanctuary, air, and satisfies every human requirement, whether large or little. So it is essential to conserve the environment.

As a student, how can you contribute to it? Think about it. For instance, I will share a few things that you can follow and practice, which will contribute to the conservation of the environment.  

Shedding of leaves is a natural process. It is one of the methods of plants to get rid of their waste products produced and prevent moisture loss in them. We are lucky that we have many trees in our surroundings which provide a refreshing and pollution-free atmosphere. The fresh air and the greenery around us help to stimulate our minds. There is no doubt about it. But the problem then arises is to dispose of the dried leaves properly. Walking over the dead leaf layer on the ground is like walking over a spongy carpet. But it is not safe. Dumping of leaves in one place is also not safe. Dry leaf piles are considered dangerous because they shelter rodents and snakes. The burning of dried leaves is not at all a good idea because it creates pollution. Instead, we can use other ways to utilize them in a useful manner. Compost making is one of the useful and profitable ways to dispose of them.

Dried leaves being natural compost, and the best soil fertility enhancer can be utilized free of cost. They help to retain soil moisture, help to protect against temperature fluctuations, help to lessen the growth of other weeds, add much-needed nutrients and fertilize the soil if used as compost. For this purpose, simply we have to pile up the dried leaves and spread some soil over them in our garden. When it turns into nutrient-rich black soil, we can use them for growing plants. In this way, we can create our own natural fertilizer (manure), which is far better than chemical fertilizers. We are trying to save our environment because when we dump them, they produce methane, which contributes to global warming. 

As a solution, we can prepare pits, and these dried leaves can be put in them. Spread a net or mesh at the bottom of the pit. Instead of this, we can spread about 2 cm. thick layer of sand. Put a layer of dried leaves and spread a layer of cow dung. Thus a few more layers of dried leaves and cow dung can be made. Green leaves also can be added. Sprinkle a sufficient amount of water to make them wet. Cover it with an old cloth or gunny bag or grass. This will take five to six weeks for decay. If we add red worms to it, we can prepare vermicomposting. When the compost is ready, it can be provided to the growing plants in the garden.

Byju Joseph

The Fabindia School

bjh@fabindiaschools.in