Environment - By K.D. Lakithi Liyanga Kumarage

Written By: K.D. Lakithi Liyanga Kumarage

Category: Essay

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poignant essay titled "Environment," K.D. Lakithi Liyanga Kumarage brings to light the indispensable relationship between humanity and nature. This submission, part of the Essay category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, delves into the ancient and modern dynamics of our natural environment. With compelling insights, Kumarage addresses the critical theme of environmental preservation, urging a collective awareness and responsibility towards our planet.

About the Work

"Environment" by K.D. Kumarage is a reflective exploration of humanity's intrinsic bond with nature. The essay eloquently captures the essence of environmental stewardship, reminding readers of the harmony our ancestors once shared with the natural world. Kumarage's narrative is rich with imagery, evoking a deep sense of nostalgia and urgency. The work is a clarion call for action, highlighting the dire consequences of neglecting our duty to protect and conserve the environment.

Environment

Original Submission by K.D. Lakithi Liyanga Kumarage

Environment

Since ancient times, the environment has been a part of human lives. The first living organisms, single-celled organisms called prokaryotes, emerged in water. Modern humans, known as Homo sapiens, evolved from ape-like ancestors and are an inseparable part of nature.

Early humans respected nature. They went to the extent of worshipping nature believing it to be God. They worshiped the sun, moon, stars, rocks and even trees. They did this because they understood the importance of nature. They knew that we live and survive in this world because of nature. They also knew that nature is the cradle of life.

Even in today's AI-driven world, humanity cannot survive without the environment. Every breath we take, every drop of water and every piece of food are available because of nature. Ever since ancient times people have depended on nature for various things. For food, shelter and solely for survival they have depended on nature. But in the present world, it is visible that people pay no regard for our environment.

The Earth is called as the “Green planet”. Why do people who have seen this planet from outer space call this the “Green planet”? It is because when looking at the Earth from outer space the earth appears in green color. This is because of the vast amount of trees and forests available on the earth. But in a few more years we will have to call it as the “Brown planet”, or even as the “Dead planet” because of the increasing amount of destruction happening on the earth.

In earlier days people paid much attention to the environment. They planted trees, protected water bodies, and even constructed essential things such as houses without doing any damage to the environment. Some people even lived in caves without living in houses, because they were that close to the environment. But now, people are so wrapped up in their lives that they forget to pay any heed to the calls of nature. In the present world, everywhere we look is filled with destruction. People are so wrapped up in their own worlds that they forget to pay any attention to any other world, especially the world of nature. Everywhere we look we can see trees toppled to the ground, blue waters have become brown, and some have even gone dry. Animals are arriving at villages because their homes are being destroyed, and humans destroy the lives of these valuable beings. Animals are being hunted for food, skin and tusks. Everywhere we look, destructions taken place.

When was the last time you went to the beach and looked at the calming waves? Can you remember the calming and relaxing sensation which went through your body when looking at the distant horizons? Can you remember in the days you faced examinations and was constantly under pressure, that time your parents and counsellors advised you to relax your mind and eyesight by looking at something green such as grass or trees? Do you remember the pleasure it gave you to see trees in full bloom during the new year season, or the pleasant sounds of birds chirping and the feeling of freshness after the morning’s slight drizzle? Just imagine what would happen to humans if all these wonders and miracles of nature were to disappear one morning when you wake up. How would you feel to wake up and see vast numbers of buildings where ever you look, get up in the morning and breathe in a lungful of polluted air, drink a whole glass of contaminated water, and step outside to the constant roar of machines? Is this the future we want to live in? Is this the future which we want to present to our children? No, this is not what we want. This is not what we should do.

At present, people are so wrapped up in their own lives that they don't have time to look even a few years ahead. They don’t have time to forecast the consequences of their present actions in a few years’ time. But now, it’s time to set some time aside and think about the future, of ourselves, our children and our nature.

There are several things which people can do individually as well as, as a society in order to stop the destruction happening worldwide. Encouraging children to grow a home garden, taking steps to plant trees at various institutions such as at school, at workplaces, etc. increasing awareness about the importance of nature among people, making use of the available space for our use without cutting trees to fulfil our various needs, take steps to protect wildlife, and opposing unnecessary deforestation and encouraging governments to protect forests and promote reforestation are some steps which will help to ensure the survival of nature in the future as well.

In the end, protecting nature is not merely an environmental responsibility-it is our duty as human beings. Nature has cared for us since the beginning of time, providing us with everything we need to live. Now, it is our turn to protect and preserve it. Every tree we plant, every river we keep clean, every animal we protect, and every small step we take today shapes the world our future generations will inherit. Let us not wait until the green planet turns brown before we act. Instead, let us become the generation that restored the beauty of the Earth rather than destroyed it. After all, when we protect nature, we are ultimately protecting ourselves, our children, and the only home we have ever known.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, organized by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating literary excellence across the globe. This competition provides writers with an opportunity to share their unique voices and perspectives on pressing issues. It aims to inspire creativity and provoke thought through diverse categories, including Poetry, Short Story, Essay, and Creative Writing.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to K.D. Lakithi Liyanga Kumarage for their insightful contribution, "Environment," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through this evocative essay, Kumarage has reminded us of the crucial role we play in safeguarding our planet. We commend their dedication to raising environmental awareness and look forward to seeing the positive impact of their message.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.