P. A. Chacko
The 2012 UN proclamation of 21 March as the International Day of Forests is meant to engender in us all the need for caring for forests which are the lungs of Mother Earth. They sustain the life of all beings on planet earth. Their green cover protects us all beings. They filter air and give us oxygen. They give us shade and cool environment.
It is estimated that, due to deforestation, 10 million hectares of forest disappear every year. Insects damage 35 million hectares of forest annually.
Commercial exploitation of forests and looting of forest resources have been doing harm to our environment and ecology. Healthy forests are health promoting resources.
Studies show the life promoting importance of trees and forest wealth. A visit to a forest environment is said to lower blood pressure, pulse rate and cortisol levels. Forest are home for over 50,000 medicinal species.
If only our growing young generation understands the importance of green cover, trees and plants, forests and forest resources, it will be a great asset for the future of humanity. Let our students learn the importance of planting trees and how to care for them. Let them learn how to talk to trees and plants. Let them learn to thank a tree when they have enjoyed its shade or when they pluck its fruit. These are simple ways of vibrating with nature and promoting respect for God’s creation.