What’s the one luxury you can’t live without?

In a world filled with luxury goods designer clothes, fancy gadgets, and sleek carsthere are two essentials we simply cannot live without: clean, breathable air and safe, drinkable water. These are not just luxuries; they are the foundation of survival. While you can buy a new phone or a bigger house with money, clean air and water depend on factors often beyond our control. My recent experience moving from the pristine environment of Kerala to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai drove this truth home in a way I didn’t expect.

Growing up in Kerala, I took clean air and water for granted. The lush greenery and fresh breezes were part of everyday life. But after returning to Mumbai, the difference was stark. Within a month, I noticed my body resisting deep breaths, as if it instinctively knew the air wasn’t clean. The water, too, felt differentless trustworthy. This isn’t just a Mumbai problem; it’s a reality for millions living in densely populated cities worldwide. The price of urban progress often comes at the cost of our environment.

Big cities drive economies, but they also strain our natural resources. Air pollution from vehicles, industries, and construction fills our lungs with harmful particles. Water sources, meanwhile, are often contaminated by industrial runoff or inadequate infrastructure. According to the World Health Organization, 9 out of 10 people globally breathe air containing high levels of pollutants. Poor water quality affects billions, leading to health issues that could be prevented. These are not abstract statisticsthey’re realities we feel in our bodies and see in our communities.

As citizens, we’re not powerless. Small, collective actions can make a big difference in improving our urban environment:

• Reduce Waste: Proper garbage disposal and recycling can prevent pollution of air and water sources. Be mindful of how you dispose of plastics and hazardous materials.
• Plant Trees: Trees act as natural air filters, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Organizing or joining community tree-planting drives can transform city landscapes.
• Advocate for Change: Support policies and initiatives that prioritize clean air and water. Engage with local authorities to ensure better waste management and pollution control.
• Conserve Resources: Use water sparingly and invest in air purifiers or water filters for your home if possible.

The luxury of clean air and water shouldn’t be a privilegeit should be a right.