Introduction

Our century appears to be one of the epochs in which talks about man and his environment have been central. Yet, it remains a paradox that it is one of the periods which have experienced the deepest anguish and in-ordinate degradation of the environment. We live in an era characterised by advancements in science and technology. These advancements have a lot of ethical and ecological implications that render most actions of human beings unjust to the environment. Therefore, what is the future of the African environment; our common home?

Man’s Disregard for the Environment

Contemporary man has engaged in many activities that deplete and destroy the environment. Those activities are deforestation, over-exploitation of natural resources, overcrowding, and pollution. Consequently, it leads to further degradation of the environment because of an increase in soil erosion and depletion of the ozone layer, leading to global warming and climate change. Man cannot remain indifferent in the face of all this quagmire. 

Way Forward

To stop this environmental injustice, the promotion of sustainable development is indispensable. Sustainable development meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In such a case, man has to create a mutual relationship with the environment. Our conception of society is what will eventually make or mar sustainable development and future peace. UNESCO’s Education for Sustainable Development rightly captures that the collective activities of human beings have altered the earth’s ecosystems. So our very survival seems in danger because of changes more difficult to reverse every passing day.

If we exploit the present resources without consideration for future generations, it is clear that we are not working towards future peace. Man’s symbiotic relationship with the environment rather than parasitism is categorically imperative. 

Conclusion

With the above considerations, man has to be re-inscribed with the consciousness that nature does not forgive, we must act in ways that will not offend it. Bringing contemporary man to this consciousness is of utmost importance. As aforementioned, maintaining a mutual relationship with the environment can guarantee sustainable development and future peace. Also, it is worthy of note that this relationship with the environment is not a commodity to be obtained but a way of life. Thus, to maintain it, we must act in ways that promote it. It starts with you and me. The environment deserves to be taken care of.