Finding the long-lost path: Developing environmental awareness through the pandemic

The continuous degradation and mass destruction of the environment has led environmentalists to believe that our planet would become uninhabitable for any species in the future. As a result of the restrictions in place due to the pandemic, critical aspects of our impact on the environment have been brought to our attention. This chapter focuses on such insights, and emphasises on how the observations during this time could help us understand the need of the hour, i.e., learning to share the same space with other species on the planet. To achieve this state, the priorities would have to shift from an attitude of constant consumption and short-term satisfaction, to a sense of well-being based on community and harmony with nature. The chapter further goes on to explore the contribution of psychology in changing the existing unsustainable actions of humans towards pro-environment and sustainable behaviour through an examination of both the contributing factors as well as obstacles to achieving such a change. Finally, a psychosocial model for sustainable action is proposed, focusing on promoting global health, wealth and peace; thus, creating a safe and secure space for all living beings.