My Friend Is Demotivating As Hell!

He thinks we — who talk for the environment — are hypocrites.

Yesterday, I was talking to one of my friends about how our simple actions may bring positive changes in our lifestyle. I told him that if we become a little aware of our ongoing lifestyle and make tiny adjustments, we can reduce plastic wastes significantly, and it’s really good for the environment.

My friend immediately said, ‘It doesn’t matter. Nothing will change.’

I asked him, ‘Why do you think nothing will change? Some people truly care for the environment and are making significant progress.’

My friend remained firm in his opinion and said, ‘Only policy level changes can solve environmental problems, plastic pollution, etc. Otherwise, nothing will happen, no matter how being an individual you reduce your daily waste.’

He then added, ‘And those who care too much for the environment should join politics. Otherwise, talking about the environment is just hypocrisy and self-centered mentality.’

I felt extremely irritated when he said that. But yes, he is right that only policy-level changes can significantly reduce plastic pollution or other environmental issues. And as the government is reluctant to do that, it’s very hard to bring changes by changing our lifestyle. Because people, in general, hardly care about the environment. Well, that doesn’t mean that we should stop talking and caring.

I said, ‘So, what do you think? If the government doesn’t do anything, we should just forget the issue and live our lives as we are living?’

My friend insisted, ‘You cannot impact just by changing your lifestyle. You do so because you want to feel good about yourself. That’s it. And it’s a selfish mentality.’

I was extremely surprised to listen to his words. I felt heartbroken, to be honest.

I said, ‘What wrong is there if we want to live an environment-friendly life and play our part to reduce plastic waste or fight other environmental issues? We don’t need to go for changing the entire world, just changing one individual at a time is enough. And I don’t think people who talk about the environment are hypocrites. Instead, they are conscious people who at least admit that the way we are living needs improvements.’

I told my friend about Rob Greenfield and how his efforts have been inspiring others and how he is making an impact. I also told him about a YouTube Channel that is exploring the alternatives we can think of when it comes to environment-friendly living.

Anyway, my friend is not convinced that our individual effort matters unless govt brings policy-level changes to reduce environmental pollution.

I really felt disheartened after the talk. At the same time, I was very shocked to see the amount of negativity resides in him.

Well, I don’t care if my actions or the tiny changes I’m introducing to my lifestyle inspire others or not. But I do want to die with the peace that, at least, I tried to live a life with an intention to produce less waste and speak for the environment and nature.

If that makes me selfish, then be it.

Thank you for reading.

Read the following articles about the environment and wildlife and take action to save the planet.

• The School of Nature
• Are We Greenwashing Ourselves?
• I Saved Three Turtles and a Dolphin Yesterday
• Add ‘Environment’ to Your New Year’s Resolution
• An Average Person Eats 70,000 Microplastics Each Year

You can also inspire others to experience the beauty of this lovely planet. Just click the below image and be a writer for The Environment