From a green perspective

When did the word “green” came to be widely associated with the environmental movement? In Century of New Words, John Ayto cites examples from 1971. The adjective was used to refer to environmentalists, who were “green” in their approach. In the 1970s, the colour green was associated with the protests against nuclear power stations in Germany, says the author.

It was in the early 90s that I came across this word. The Earth Summit at Rio in 1992 was the driving force. Words like “hotspots,”“sustainable development,” and “recycling” became the buzzwords of the decade. Other terms that become hits included global warming, greenhouse effect, nuclear winter, renewable energy, bioremediation, acid rain, pollution, smog, oil pollution, biodiversity, and extinction. Newspapers splashed several “green” stories and ran campaigns to caution people against the impending environmental doom. Green organisations and politicians brought green issues to the public arena by pitting development against the environment. Many made careers out of the "disaster scenarios" by starting non-governmental organisations and trusts.

Greenwashing

The word used to describe the recession-triggered enthusiasm for things green is “greenwashing.” Announcements by companies that they are going green are just PR spin.

Staycation

I like the word "staycation" because it justifies what I would love to do on weekends. Relax at home watching the TV, or reading a novel, or reading back issues of newspapers. If a large number decides to enjoy staycation, the environment will be the biggest beneficiaries.

I have always thought the days when bandhs and hartals are organised in India are the best ones to study air pollution. Vehicles will not be out on the road fearing stone throwing and violence by protesters. There will be a huge difference in the levels of sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and suspended particulate matter (SPM) in those days when the streets will be empty. Are pollution researchers listening?