The Intrinsic Connection Between Environmental Wellbeing and Our Own

The Intrinsic Connection Between Environmental Wellbeing and Our Own

Marcus Fernandes, Year 6, Primary Head Boy

Marcus Fernandes, Year 6, is the Primary Head Boy who believes in leading by example. Marcus is extremely conscious of the fact that our planet is unique and is the nurturer and provider of billions of life forms. In this article, Marcus explores the intrinsic connection between environmental wellbeing and our own, and underscores the fact the wellbeing of the planet is linked the wellbeing of its inhabitants.

Environmental protection is being talked about more and more with every passing year. The urgency to protect the planet has been stressed on repeatedly and rightly so. The planet gives us everything we need to survive and the wellbeing of the planet is directly linked to our wellbeing in every other sphere of life. Yes, let’s put the focus on environmental wellbeing. Environmental wellbeing means being mindful of the space surrounding you. Human beings are a part of the ecosystem. Nature plays a very important role to human life, health, and well-being. Natural environments affect human health and wellbeing directly and indirectly. A clean and green environment is an asset to good health. Pollution is a major threat to life. The Father of Medicine, Hippocrates was the first physician to say that illness is not the consequence of mystical forces or punishments from the gods. He felt that his patients’ conditions are related to environment, diet, and living habits.

• Am I aware of human impact on the environment? • Do I recycle, reduce and reuse? • Do I engage in environmentally friendly behaviours like turning off lights/faucets etc. • Do I take time to appreciate my surroundings? • Do I find time to spend outdoors in nature?

Our planet, our responsibility

As dwellers of the planet, it is our duty to live sustainably and consider the impact of our actions on the environment. It is vital for people to have a clear understanding of how health and wellbeing of humans is inseparable from the health of the surrounding environment. The choices we make to care for our planet are also steps to care for ourselves. Taking care of the environment not only benefits the physical health of humans, but also helps to reduce feelings of stress. As children we too can play our part through small actions every day. Here are a few ways you can contribute to environmental wellbeing• Not waste food. • Not littering our surroundings. • Reducing our use of plastic items. • Not wasting water or electricity. • Participating in school and community sustainable projects. These are small actions but can have a huge impact on environmental wellbeing. So start today!