National Energy Conservation Day : Energy, Climate Change, And Health

Today, everyone is enjoying the benefits of energy in some way or the other. The continuous exploitation is leading the energy sources to die and increasing carbon emission. Simultaneously, it is contributing to climate change and global warming. To make people familiar with this issue, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) celebrates National Energy Conservation Day on December 14 every year.

BEE comes under the Union Ministry of Power. It uses the occasion to advocate energy conservation and being vigilant of the environment. Climate change also poses challenges for health, as it affects the quality of food, air, water, shelter, and other basic needs of human life. Let’s discuss some key climate change facts to understand its impact on our lives better.

Climate Change Facts

National Energy Conservation Day is an occasion to create awareness on the importance of energy efficiency and conservation and remind ourselves of the climate change facts, helping us understand it as a real issue. Here are the most important facts everyone should know:

• Coal is the biggest reason for producing more carbon emission than any other source of energy.
• Coal power plants produce mercury at large. This contaminates the waterways and infects the fish we would eat with high levels of mercury.
• Coal and fossil sources are going to die soon.
• Solar, wind, and water can be used as the ultimate source of energy with less risk of climate change.

Impact on Health Due to Climate Change

Climate change leads to food contamination, weather change, and mental disabilities due to which there are several health issues.

1. Contaminated Foods

Large amount of mercury in fish, plastic properties on plants, or lack of nutrients have been found in food items, leading to:

• Nervous system issues
• Digestive problems
• Weak immunity system
• Obesity
• Kidneys and lungs issues
• Respiratory disease
• Cardiovascular risk

2. Risks Related to Extreme Weather

Weather change is growing erratic owing to climate change. The frequent changes in weather lead to serious outcomes like:

• Premature deaths
• Heat-related illnesses
• Increased food and water-borne illnesses
• Enhanced vector-borne diseases

3. Increased Risk to Mental Health

With large carbon emission, lack of sun exposure due to climate change has not only curbed physical health but also impacted mental health. Some of the common mental health issues occuring due to climate change are:

• Sleeping disorders
• Anxiety and depression
• Loneliness
• Hormonal imbalances

How can We Contribute Towards Energy Conservation Day?

Energy can’t be conserved only with the efforts of any institution. Common people have to come together and play their part. Here are some ways in which anyone can make the Energy Conservation Day successful:

1. Save Electricity

Don’t use electricity when it is not needed. Turn off the lights and other appliances (fans, TV, Cooler, AC, refrigerator) when you leave the room. Use LED bulbs in place of the normal ones and save more electricity. Moreover, doing the most of the work under natural light (sunlight) will help you to save power and stay healthy as well.

2. Avoid Traffic Pollution

CNG-run vehicles are not only pivotal for the environment but are a cost-effective choice as well. India is also planning to switch to solar vehicles in the coming times.

3. Go Green

Cut down your meat consumption and practice reusing and recycling of resources. There are various green building projects taking place in India – a huge step toward green living. These green buildings are designed in a way that aids in using less water and energy sources. Additionally, they aim to generate less wastes and carbon footprints with a comfortable lifestyle.

Conclusion

A little drop of water can make an ocean. Just with small steps, the entire population of a nation can achieve the purpose of National Energy Conservation Day. Sensitising the younger generation on the same is also important since they are the future of the nation. Inculcating habits that are focused towards energy conservation since an early age may help bring behavioural changes. This will further help establish these habits in the generations that are to come. These steps will support longevity, health, and sustainable development.