Syeda Fatima Batool
As I returned to Pakistan after a transformative one-and-a-half-month sojourn in the United States, I couldn’t help but reflect on the profound differences I observed in the two nations’ approaches to water, climate, and pollution management. My time in America was a masterclass in environmental stewardship, and I was struck by the citizens’ remarkable sense of responsibility.
One of the most striking aspects of American culture was the citizens’ dedication to proper waste disposal. I didn’t see a single person littering, even when it meant walking for minutes to reach a trash can. This commitment to keeping their surroundings clean was a far cry from what I’m accustomed to in Pakistan, where garbage often litters our streets and sidewalks, even when bins are mere meters away.
The Americans’ attention to detail when it came to water conservation was equally impressive. Low-flow showerheads, toilets, and faucets were ubiquitous, a testament to the nation’s commitment to preserving this precious resource. In contrast, Pakistan’s water scarcity crisis continues to worsen, with conservation efforts often taking a backseat.
But what left a lasting impression on me was the story my mentor shared about his own experience with environmental regulations. He had wanted to add an extra room to his house, which happened to be situated near a small water reservoir. However, he was required to pay a substantial fee to the government to ensure that the construction wouldn’t harm the local wildlife or compromise the water quality. This fee would be used to implement measures that would safeguard the reservoir and its inhabitants. I was amazed by this level of accountability and foresight, and it contrasted starkly with the often-lax regulations in Pakistan.
I was also struck by the Americans’ acute concern for climate change. One day, when the temperature rose slightly higher than usual in Amherst, I received not one, not two, but four alarm warnings from 911 within a single hour. The alerts urged me to take immediate action to protect myself from the heat wave and informed me that emergency services were available if needed. What was remarkable was that this temperature, which would be considered mild in Pakistan, was deemed a potentially life-threatening heat wave in the US. This level of vigilance and preparedness was a testament to the nation’s commitment to mitigating the effects of climate change.
My experiences in the USA also highlighted the country’s proactive approach to climate change. From the efficient public transportation systems to the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources, it was clear that Americans take their environmental responsibilities seriously. In Pakistan, climate change remains a pressing concern, with rising temperatures and changing weather patterns exacerbating our existing environmental challenges.
I was also struck by the frequency of rainfall in the US, a testament to the country’s lush green forests, vast wilderness areas, and robust conservation efforts. The presence of numerous lakes, rivers, and wetlands also contributed to the region’s high water table, ensuring a steady supply of moisture to the atmosphere. During my stay in Amherst, it rained almost every second day, with the surrounding areas of Northampton, Hadley, Springfield, and Chesterfield also receiving regular showers. This abundance of rainfall was a far cry from the severe shortage of rainfall we face in Pakistan, where factors such as deforestation, urbanization, and climate change have disrupted the natural water cycle.
In contrast, Pakistan’s rainfall has become increasingly erratic, with prolonged droughts and intense flooding becoming more frequent. The country’s lack of forest cover, inadequate water harvesting infrastructure, and pollution have all contributed to this crisis. The effects are evident in our depleted water reservoirs, dwindling groundwater levels, and struggling agriculture sector.
As I settled back into life in Pakistan, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of determination. My time in America had shown me a better way, and I was eager to do my part in raising awareness about environmental issues and inspiring change in my own community. The journey ahead would undoubtedly be long and challenging, but I was heartened by the knowledge that even small actions could collectively make a significant difference.
As I settled back into life in Pakistan, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of determination. My time in America had shown me a better way, and I was eager to do my part in raising awareness about environmental issues and inspiring change in my own community. The journey ahead would undoubtedly be long and challenging, but I was heartened by the knowledge that even small actions could collectively make a significant difference.
(Syeda Fatima Batool is a Political Science student at Hazara University, Mansehra.)