My Journey to Environmentalism | Jonita Doda
Hi Everyone,
Often people ask me—“When did you become an environmentalist?” But the truth is, I didn’t wake up one day and decide it. Looking back now, I realize… it was always there. Like a seed quietly growing within me.
As a child, I didn’t know the word “environmentalist.”
But I knew one thing—I couldn’t stand wasting water.
If my father or later brother were shaving and the tap was left running even for a second, I would rush in and shut it off. Not angrily—just urgently. I remember the anxiety I’d feel if anyone—even a house help—forgot to close it. It used to shake me up inside. P.S- i still do it 😛
And everyone in my family—especially my father—noticed and respected that. They were always water-conscious too. Maybe I got it from him. Maybe it was just in me.
It’s only now, as I reflect on this journey, that I realize…
This wasn’t new. It was always who I was.
🎥 From Films to Forests
My environmental work became intentional when I started working on my documentary:
India – The Golden Sparrow: Disaster & Reduction.
As I researched, what I found was beyond alarming. Climate change, water scarcity, species extinction, environmental apathy—it wasn’t a distant threat. It was here, now. And dangerously underestimated.
That’s when something shifted in me.
I thought—Why wait for someone else to stand up?
If I want change, I need to be the one who stands up.
And so, I did.
🗣 Using My Voice Where It Matters
Over the last couple of years, I’ve immersed myself in learning, understanding, and advocating for the planet. I’ve been:
• Training government officers in environment protection and disaster risk reduction.
• Giving lectures across the state—civil departments, police teams, education officers.
• Creating awareness at every opportunity—annual meets, school sessions, public talks.
• And yes, I’ve also been sharing truths through my social media, hoping it will reach just one more person who needs to hear it.
Whether I’m speaking at a formal government event or casually meeting people at a college fest—I make sure I talk about the Earth. About our responsibility. About the small things that matter.
🌱 What’s Next?
I’m currently planning to create a Miyawaki forest—a dense micro forest that can bring life back to urban corners. It’s something close to my heart and I can’t wait to begin.
But that’s just one piece of the larger picture.
I also plan to start a series of DIY eco-solutions:
• Natural enzyme-based cleaners
• Household waste composting
• Conscious living hacks
All rooted in what our grandmothers already knew. Simple, effective, honest.
❤️ My Hope
I’m not a scientist or politician.
I’m someone like you—deeply connected to this land, and deeply worried for it.
But I believe in action. I believe in awareness.
And I believe that one person—you—can make a difference.
This journey is not about perfection. It’s about participation.
So if you’ve ever planted a sapling, refused a plastic bag, or simply felt uneasy watching a tap run dry—
You’re already part of this.
Let’s protect what we love. Let’s be the voice. Together.
With love and hope,
Jonita Doda