I MAKE MANY ECOCONSCIOUS, RESPONSIBLE CHOICES

On Earth Day, today, Bhumi Pednekar talks about the need to make climate-positive changes in our lifestyle

Bhumi Pednekar has been quite vocal about environment-related issues. The actor feels a great deal of responsibility to speak out about the climate change crisis and changing realities, not only as a public figure, but also as a responsible global citizen. On Earth Day today, she is urging people to make more climate-positive choices.

She says, “We have seen so many climaterelated disasters in the last few years — from areas in South Africa being submerged to the pandemic and [unexpected] drought and famine [in unexpected places]. Climate change is the reason this is happening.” The Badhaai Do actor rues that “communities at large aren’t doing enough towards addressing the issue” and adds that “there has been a shift, but it is not enough”. She says, “We need stronger policies by corporations and the government to support the cause.”

The actor, who will plant a tree to mark the day, says “every step counts”. Ask her about the eco-conscious lifestyle and she informs, “I live a good life, but I try to reduce my carbon footprint as much as possible. I make as many conscious and responsible choices as I can.” She goes on to share that she opts for environment-friendly alternatives such as carrying her water bottle, refillable metal sipper and her own cutlery set. She is also committed to ditching single-use plastic bottles, plastic straws and paper plates.

For the 32-year-old, the responsibility to be vocal about the issue doesn’t come from a place of being someone with certain power. “It comes from a place of fear and a desire to protect my loved ones. I’m fortunate that I’m at a place where I have people listen to what I have to say, and that’s why I’m making the most of it,” concludes the actor, who is currently shooting for her next project in Manali.