The Orissa Environmental Society (OES) and the Society of Geoscientists and Allied Technologists (SGAT) jointly observed the 43rd World Environment Day a here on Sunday.
This year’s theme ‘Zero Tolerance for the Illegal Wildlife Trade’ was discussed in detail. OES secretary Dr Jaya Krushna Panigrahi said fate of wildlife lies in the hands of humans now. He also discussed about instrumental and intrinsic values of forest and animals.
“Human species is the only species which is responsible for the degradation of other species. Instead of focusing on Jive Daya, we should focus on Jive Adhikar,” Panigrahi opined. He also showcased various case studies on heinous crimes against wildlife.
Environmentalist Bijaya Ketan Patnaik said, “We should invest in the communities for conservation and people’s participation for safety of animals and birds. We should change our habits and behaviour so that demand for illegal wildlife trade can be checked.”
He also advised not to keep any habitats as pet.
Former bureaucrat Arabinda Behera said the disappearance of various species from the world is extremely disturbing. “We have to disseminate messages to conserve both the flora and fauna among the people,” Behera said.
He gave some suggestion on water conservation as people of the Odisha mainly depend on monsoon rains. Besides, he emphasized on prevention of air pollution and reduction in plastic use.
Environmentalist Sudhakar Kar was conferred with the Parvati Mishra Memorial Environmentalist Award. Kar has been conducting researches on crocodiles for several years. The occasion too marked the launching of a solar AC bed designed by former CET Principal BS Patra. A prototype of the AC bed was displayed at the hall.
OES president Dr Sundra Narayan Patro chaired the meeting. SGAT president SK Sadhangi also spoke.