Consequent to the warnings issued by scientists, serious discussions are underway across the globe concerning the climate change. World leaders have begun efforts to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide to meet this challenge through adoption of various appropriate measures. However, there is urgency for the people to be more aware about the causes and prevention of global warming and climate change. They will then be empowered to face the natural disasters more effectively and help in identifying pertinent solutions.
Former Director General of Forests, Government of India, Siddhanta Das expressed such views as chief guest on the 41st foundation day and award ceremony of the Orissa Environmental Society (OES) here on Wednesday. He delivered the 11th Prasanna Kumar Dash Memorial Lecture, instituted after the name of the former Assembly Speaker and OES founder-president.
Citing the Prime Minister's announcement at the Paris Climate Conference, Das emphasised that we need to sequester more than two billion tonnes of carbon by 2030 through conserving forests and soils and undertaking massive plantations. It is highly desirable to express our commitment for the protection and conservation of natural forests and wetlands.
Former PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden Dr Bijay Ketan Patnaik was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the field of forest, wildlife and environmental protection. Prof Arun Kumar Sahu, eminent educationist and science-writer, was presented the Dr BC Panda Award for Environment & Science Communication. Besides, Prof B Sitaram Patro, Er Binod Chandra Padhi, Prof Nimai Charan Mishra, Er Harischandra Behera and Biranchi Mishra were felicitated as senior life members of OES.
OES president Dr Sundara Narayana Patro said the OES would perform a more proactive role and undertake further activities in Odisha to tackle the serious environmental problems that are visible in the current global landscape.
OES secretary Dr Jayakrushna Panigrahi revealed how despite the many obstacles in its journey, the OES has been spreading the message of environmental protection and awareness through expert opinions on various important issues. He opined that there is a need now for a significant change in our mindset, lifestyle and activities.
OES vice-president Dr Lala AK Singh introduced the guests and joint secretary Er Manoranjan Mishra presented information about the 20,000 tree plantation programme being implemented by the OES with support from the State Bank of India.