On the occasion of World Environment Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday gave a clarion call for adopting a lifestyle that is in tune with the planet and does not harm it, saying those with such a lifestyle are known as "pro-planet people".
Launching the global initiative Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) Movement., PM Modi said, “The need of the hour is human-centric, collective efforts and robust actions that further sustainable development."
The launch will initiate ‘LiFE Global Call for Papers’ inviting ideas and suggestions from academics, universities and research institutions to influence and persuade individuals, communities and organisations across the world to adopt an environment-conscious lifestyle.
The idea of LiFE was introduced by the Prime Minister during the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow last year. The idea promotes an environment-conscious lifestyle that focuses on 'mindful and deliberate utilisation' instead of 'mindless and destructive consumption.
“I am grateful that the resolution of the LiFE Movement is being realised today. I express my gratitude for such record support," PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister explained that Mission LiFE borrows from the past, operates in the present and focuses on the future.
He said that the circular economy is an integral part of our culture and lifestyle. PM Modi pointed out that Indians have been able to do many good things for the environment in the country.
"Thanks to our 1.3 billion Indians, we have been able to do many good things for the environment in our country. Our forest cover is increasing and so is the population of lions, tigers, leopards, elephants and rhinos," he said.
The Prime Minister said that India's commitment to reach 40 per cent of installed electric capacity from non-fossil-fuel-based sources has been achieved, nine years ahead of schedule.
PM Modi further said that Mahatma Gandhi proposed 'Zero Carbon Lifestyle' and urged to pick the most sustainable options and follow the principle of reuse, reduce and recycle.
India stands in support of any effort to further global wellness. On World Environment Day, let us pledge to make 'LiFE – Lifestyle For Environment' a global mass movement," he added.
The programme also witnessed the participation of Mr Bill Gates, Co-Chairman of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; Lord Nicholas Stern, Climate Economist; Prof. Cass Sunstein, author of Nudge Theory; Mr Aniruddha Dasgupta, CEO and President of World Resources Institute; Ms Inger Andersen, UNEP Global Head; Mr Achim Steiner, UNDP Global Head and Mr David Malpass, World Bank President, among others.
Also read: India has met target of 10% ethanol blending in petrol 5 months ahead of schedule, says PM Modi
