Here is a summary of the article in 400 words:
Five-year-old Roohi Mohazzab has made a groundbreaking request to the world leaders to replace traditional passport paper with recycled paper, aiming to save trees and protect the environment. This idea has the potential to position India as the first country to introduce passports made from recycled paper, setting a global precedent for sustainability.
Roohi’s initiative is built on a compelling statistic: India issued over 13 million passports in 2023, consuming approximately 468 metric tonnes of paper, and globally, nearly 100 million passports are issued annually, requiring around 3,600 metric tonnes of paper. Switching to recycled paper passports could save thousands of trees every year, reducing environmental damage.
The global demand for paper is a significant contributor to deforestation, with 15.3 billion trees cut down annually, 40% of which is used for paper production. Producing one tonne of paper requires 24 trees, releasing carbon emissions and worsening climate change. India’s paper consumption is expected to reach 30 million tonnes by 2026-27, growing at a 6-7% annual rate.
While digital alternatives are gaining traction, passports remain a physical necessity, making Roohi’s proposal a timely and impactful solution. India has a unique opportunity to set a global precedent by introducing recycled paper passports, aligning with the country’s sustainability goals, circular economy vision, and commitment to combating climate change.
However, there are challenges to consider, including durability and security, cost and implementation, and symbolic impact. Despite these challenges, Roohi’s campaign highlights the importance of rethinking everyday choices that impact the planet. Her initiative has started a global conversation about sustainability, responsibility, and the power of a simple idea. At just five years old, she has demonstrated that young minds can hold significant influence and inspire change.