Just take a look around you, what do you see? More concrete than nature right, and the irony is that we are on an Island! Can we say that we live in a concrete jungle? I am afraid that with time, this will be a sad reality and Mauritius will lose its natural beauty. We are not only losing more green lands but along, endemic plants. ELI Africa has been working towards a program of replanting of endemic plants around the Island and we can proudly say that we have been doing an amazing work by planting more than 1500 plants already.
The extinction rate has increased a hundredfold in the last century, so it is of paramount importance that the Mauritian people realise that it is crucial to save our endemic plants. Why? The world is already facing mass extinction of several species and the least we need right now is seeing our own endemic plants disappearing. For if these endemic plants are to become extinct, it might affect the ecosystems which might
thus prove to be disastrous.
These endemic plants are unique to our country and they were here well before the first human settlement on our Island. We have no rights to let them go extinct, for, we have as responsibility to save and protect them. Even though, our endemic plants are little in numbers (for the time being), another reason why we need to save our plants is because nature is beautiful. This aesthetic value is a good reason to maintain it, just like we preserve artistic masterpieces like the Mona Lisa or Angkor Wat. The fact that some of us find nature beautiful, by itself, won’t do. We are to blame for the current situation but we can still remedy to it.
Education can help in our goal to save our endemic plants. Educating the population and encouraging them to plant one endemic plant in their garden is a very encouraging path to follow. Nearly everyone has access to media today. So, mass extinction around the world isn’t going unnoticed by our people, especially the youngsters. Moreover, actions speak louder than words. We need to act and alongside, educate people about the importance of preserving what Mother Nature has given us. Fortunately, at ELI Africa, with more than 1500 endemic plants already planted and a plan for the plantation of 2500 plants additionally for the year 2017-2018, we know we are on the right track.
Now, it is crucial to motivate others to save what is an important part of our biological heritage. For remember, if our ecosystem is disturbed, we will also be affected. To achieve this goal, we need your help. So, stand up for this good cause and together, we will save our world.
