A Noble Mind, A Global Responsibility: Insights by Vineet Mittal

अयं निजः परो वेति गणना लघुचेतसाम् ।

उदारचरितानां तु वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम् ॥

"This is mine, that is yours, is the thinking of the narrow-minded. For the noble-minded, the whole world is a family."

This timeless Sanskrit verse beautifully encapsulates a worldview that is rapidly slipping away in our modern society. In our pursuit of technological advancements and economic growth, we’ve somehow distanced ourselves from the very essence that binds us to the Earth. As we compartmentalize our problems—drawing lines between "ours" and "theirs"—we lose sight of the fact that we all share one home, one family: Earth.

A recent Bloomberg article highlights the environmental impact of metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), crucial for over 260 million asthma sufferers globally. As of July 2024, inhalers account for approximately 3.5% of the UK's healthcare carbon emissions, with each traditional inhaler producing emissions equivalent to a 290-kilometer car drive per 100 puffs. Innovative alternatives like dry powder inhalers could reduce these emissions by 63 million kg CO2 equivalents annually. Pharmaceutical companies are advancing greener options, including propellants with 90% lower global warming potential, aiming for a more sustainable approach to respiratory care while managing chronic conditions effectively. These inhalers, while critical for managing respiratory diseases, are also significant contributors to climate change. Every puff release potent hydrofluorocarbon (HFCs), which are thousands of times more harmful to the atmosphere than carbon dioxide.

It's a paradox—where the very tool designed to aid breathing is damaging the air we breathe. But this isn’t just about inhalers; it’s a reflection of a much deeper, systemic problem.

The Disconnect Between Man and Nature

The wisdom of the Vedas has always emphasized that nature is not separate from us; it is us. As the Isha Upanishad reminds us: "All this—whatever exists in the universe—is pervaded by the Lord. Protect your Self through renunciation. Do not covet others' wealth."

In simpler terms: everything belongs to everyone, and by extension, everything must be cared for. Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, supports this holistic worldview, suggesting that when we disrupt natural rhythms, whether in our bodies or the environment, imbalance and disease follow. Our reliance on products that harm the planet in the name of progress shows just how far we've strayed from these principles. But there’s good news- Researchers and pharmaceutical companies worldwide are championing dry powder inhalers, which require patients to inhale the medication. This innovative approach not only empowers users but also significantly reduces environmental impact—emissions from dry powder inhalers are an impressive 18 times lower than those from traditional MDIs. By embracing this alternative, we’re not just protecting ourselves; we're healing a longstanding disconnect between humanity and nature.

Bridging Ancient Wisdom with Modern Solutions

In U.S. alone, over 70 million inhalers are prescribed annually which contributes enough GHG equivalent to a car driving 60 miles. While dry powder and soft-mist inhalers offer eco-friendlier alternatives, their higher cost limits accessibility, especially for those most vulnerable. To eradicate this very issue, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s L.I.F.E. bridges this gap, urging a shift back to sustainable practices. Drawing from principles our ancestors upheld, it challenges us to adopt eco-conscious behaviours while maximizing the tools of modern science to lessen our carbon footprint. By integrating policy support and raising public awareness, L.I.F.E. will help us to adopt accessible, eco-friendly solutions for the sustainable health.

Ayurveda’s Role in Respiratory Health

India’s deep-rooted connection with Ayurveda spans thousands of years, with ancient texts like the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita documenting the practice of this holistic healing system. Known for addressing the body, mind, and spirit, Ayurveda’s emphasis on respiratory health has been especially notable. While modern medicine offers quick fixes, Ayurveda is known for addressing the body, mind, and spirit. Ayurveda’s holistic approach to respiratory health uses herbs like Tulsi and Vasaka, which act as anti-inflammatories to relieve asthma. Additionally, seasonal practices such as Nasya (herbal nasal oil) and Neti pot cleansing also help keep nasal passages hydrated and clear, offering benefits during colder months when respiratory issues are more prevalent.

This makes me think that is it a coincidence that we now face rampant pollution, climate-related disasters, and a surge in health issues? Probably not. Our ancestors understood something we've forgotten: what you take from nature, you must give back. The cycle of give and take keeps everything in balance. By adopting more natural and sustainable approaches to healthcare—both individually and globally, we can make a significant difference.

A Broader Ecological Imbalance

The rising incidences of wildfires, extended pollen seasons, and increasing air pollution are not just random occurrences—they’re symptoms of an ecosystem out of balance. And while it's tempting to believe that these issues are beyond individual control, the truth is quite the opposite. As the Vedic teachings suggest, every action counts. Whether it's choosing a low-emission inhaler or reducing single-use plastics, the cumulative effect of individual choices can either deepen the problem or drive the solution.

Towards a Noble-Minded Future

Returning to the verse that opened this discussion, “For the noble-minded, the whole world is a family.” Noble-mindedness, in this context, means recognizing our role as caretakers of the Earth, not as consumers. It means that the air in Delhi affects the forests in the Amazon, just as the seas rising in the Maldives impact the plains of northern India. I mean, we are all dependent on each other.

But nobility is also about action. How can we embody these noble principles in our daily lives?

• Support eco-friendly technology: Pharmaceutical companies like GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca are leading the charge in developing inhalers that use low-emission propellants like HFO-1234ze.

• Choose sustainable healthcare options: Whenever possible, explore natural remedies like those found in Ayurveda. Herbal alternatives and practices like yoga have been shown to have not only health benefits but also a far lower environmental impact.
• Advocate for policy changes: Governments and healthcare providers need to offer more affordable, low-emission alternatives for patients, especially for those who rely on MDIs daily. It’s about making the right choices more accessible.
• Plant to Air Pollutants: Plant air-filtering plants like Peace Lily, Aloe vera and Snake plants to improve indoor air quality.
• Strengthen the Immune System through Diet: A diet rich in antioxidants (like vitamins C and E), omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory foods (such as turmeric and ginger) can help build resilience against respiratory infections and reduce inflammation in the lungs.

The Path Forward

The challenges outlined in the Bloomberg article are a reminder that we can't treat environmental issues as separate from human health. When we harm the planet, we harm ourselves. But the reverse is also true: when we heal the planet, we heal ourselves.

This journey begins with reconnecting to the wisdom of the past—understanding that the Earth is not something to be owned or dominated, but something to be cared for, with respect and reverence. As we embrace both modern innovation and ancient wisdom, we pave the way for a future that is sustainable, equitable, and in harmony with nature. Let’s not forget that the Earth is our home, and it’s time we start treating it as such. I request you to ask yourself that are we ready to shift from being mere inhabitants of this planet to true guardians of its future?