Ms. Praweena Pratchayakupp, 40

A dentist from Udonthani Province, Thailand

Supporter

I am a dentist by profession. Although I work in the medical field, I have always believed that whatever we do today, no matter how big or small, affects the environment- our natural home, the planet we live in. People think that environment is not their top concern now, but they should consider it because our very existence depends on a clean and healthy environment. It would be like comparing the world to a fish tank that needs constant cleaning and maintenance. If you lived in a fish tank, could you then live in a filthy one?

I got to see the wilderness of Borneo- the lungs of Southeast Asia. It depressed me to see how most of the forest has been cleared, leaving Orangutangs homeless. These animals, which have inhabited these forests for millions of years, are now living in cold cages. Those responsible simply have no regard for these peaceful creatures or for those ancient trees. They clear the forests to grow oil palm plantations, fueling more greenhouse gas emissions. It is good that Greenpeace continues to raise the public’s awareness on the importance of forests and biodiversity.

We cannot survive on this planet on our own. We need a healthy ecosystem and all its natural resources. Now more than ever, environmental campaigning is needed to educate people on issues, to expose who is responsible and who needs to be accountable for environmental crimes. This is what Greenpeace has been advocating. As concerned individuals who believe in the same principles, we must support Greenpeace and take on the cause. Let’s not forget that we get what we give. By protecting and nurturing our natural environment today, the future of our planet will be guaranteed.