Saving the Environment: Strategies for Preservation
Published on: October 17, 2023.
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THE harvesting season of rice crop has commenced in Pakistan, bringing with it the annual tradition of burning straw residue. This practice, common in the wheat-rice belt of Punjab, has been found to cause smog and air pollution, adversely affecting the health and lifespan of residents in Lahore, Sheikhupura, and Peshawar. According to a recent report by the Energy Policy Institute, individuals living in these regions may have their lifespan reduced by up to four years due to the air pollution resulting from crop residue burning.
In 2019, the government made efforts to discourage the burning of crop residue, but there were challenges in fully implementing these measures. To address this issue, we can look to successful strategies employed in other countries like India and China. One such strategy is conditional cash transfer, where farmers are incentivized to refrain from burning crop residue through financial rewards. Additionally, the use of specialized equipment like straw shredders, happy seeders, rotavators, and rice straw choppers can help eliminate the need for burning.
Farmers can also utilize the crop residue as fodder for livestock, providing an alternative use for the waste. Moreover, administrative activism, in collaboration with rural communities and associations, can play a crucial role in educating farmers about sustainable practices. By leveraging collective efforts, we can prevent this problem from escalating and ensure a better and safer future for generations to come.
It is imperative that we take action now and begin implementing these solutions to mitigate the harmful effects of crop residue burning. Through proactive measures and sustainable practices, we can protect the environment, improve air quality, and safeguard the health and well-being of our communities.
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Source: [Dawn](https://www.dawn.com)
