#HerdMuSings : Human or non-human, it's inhumane not to share habitats with all species. #Signofthetimes: It has now come down to 'You' and 'I'!!

As the Conversation Media Limited group recently reported, a billion people in Africa live in a climate risk blind spot, unable to anticipate or take preventive action against frequent natural disasters. It also stated, "Statistics show that the number of weather-related disasters globally has grown five-fold since 1970, with economic damages surging seventy times over the same period." This fact raises a crucial question: Are these disasters solely a result of weather patterns, or do human efforts play an enabling or mitigating role in their occurrence? The level of human intervention within the natural ecosystem has changed these past decades, led by Industrialisation consumption, but at whose expense??

?Moreover, National Geographic highlighted the disappearance of Fireflies earlier this year, which may seem insignificant compared to other environmental issues this year. As natural predators to mosquitoes, Fireflies help keep the numbers down, but they are vanishing; their numbers are falling. A thought comes to mind- Are these all interconnected? As I write this, the TV is flashing alarming headlines about a Dengue epidemic in Bangladesh – Isn't that caused by mosquitoes, overbreeding, exacerbated by heavy unseasonal rains? When does a weather-related disaster become a health-related disaster, or is it climate-related or a disaster that is man-made?

?Well, here's the catch- Could the loss of fireflies indirectly be a symptom of a deeper malaise of increasing environment and weather disasters, one that threatens human lives, in Africa and on all other contients? As humans, we tend to prioritize our comfort and security, often neglecting other living beings. This neglect negatively impacts the habitats of different species, leaving them defenceless against human encroachment. Take fireflies, for example. Fireflies are beautiful tiny winged beings and an essential part of our natural ecosystem. Using harmful chemicals as mosquito killers and excessive lighting at night for security, both ostensibly for human comfort, also kills fireflies as it impacts their habitats and survival.?

?While fireflies may not benefit us directly, they are vital in controlling mosquito populations by feeding on mosquitoes and other pests that spread malaria. By killing off these fireflies with pesticides and harmful chemicals, we undermine a natural pest control mechanism, an integral part of the natural ecosystem, and inadvertently risk our long-term health. Moreover, the use of lights for security in our housing societies and city illumination in the bright hoardings disrupt the biorhythmic cycles of other living beings, such as birds and fireflies, leading to a significant decrease in their population. As a result, with their more sensitive predators being killed, the mosquito population increases, and another nasty side effect is the emergence of pesticide-resistant strains, which makes controlling these disease-carrying pests even more challenging.

Frankly, the mosquitoes only run away and come back another day to bite us. Why can we not follow more sensible practices followed traditionally, switch off lights during sunset, use natural smoke and other natural repellents to drive them away and limit the use of kerosene or other harmful sprays. By harming our home environment and the natural habitats around us, we unknowingly adversely impact our well-being. It's no longer just about environmental conservation; it has become a matter of self-preservation. The negative consequences of our seemingly positive actions can lead to unintended consequences for future generations.

?Now is the time for each of us to reflect on our lifestyles and take action. It's not only about preserving the environment but also about preserving ourselves. Each one has to rethink our use of pesticides, harmful chemicals, and excessive artificial lighting or any consumption practice that is long-term harmful. Each one of us needs to manage our footprint. It means effort on our part, not the Government, not some international body or an NGO, but I, each one of us.

?Imagine a world where we switch off lights at night, allowing fireflies to flourish and control mosquito populations naturally. Imagine a world where we prioritize sustainable practices that ensure the well-being of all species, including ourselves. Imagine a world that we grew up is available to future generations! Whether we continue down the path of self-destruction or take a step back and act to preserve and create inclusive ecosystems - The choice is Ours!?

?