By composting household waste instead of discarding it on the streets, we can enhance garden fertility and prevent waste from accumulating along roadsides, contributing to a cleaner environment, said Dayanand, the development officer of Thenkanidiyur gram panchayat.
Speaking at an environmental awareness program held on Sunday, February 23, at St Annama Church Hall in Thottam, Dayanand highlighted that the event was organized in partnership with the Church’s Environmental Commission, the Coordination Interfaith Harmony Committee – Thottam, and the gram panchayats of Thenkanidiyur and Badanidiyur. He stressed the importance of community responsibility in protecting the environment to avoid severe consequences for the entire ecosystem. Dayanand also encouraged tree planting to mitigate rising temperatures.
Fr Denis D’Sa, parish priest of St Anne’s Church, Thottam, addressed the audience, linking climate change to environmental imbalances and urging a shift towards environmental conservation. He emphasized the irreplaceable value of resources such as air, water, soil, and trees, calling for their perpetual preservation.
Ramesh Tingalaya, president of the Coordination Interfaith Harmony Committee – Thottam, highlighted the importance of raising environmental awareness among children. He also pointed out the growing waste management issues and called for proactive measures from the panchayats to curb indiscriminate waste disposal.
Prof Steven Quadros Permude delivered a lecture on the harmful effects of environmental degradation, while sanitation workers and ASHA workers from the local gram panchayat areas were recognized for their contributions.
The event was attended by key figures, including the presidents of Thenkanidiyur and Badanidiyur gram panchayats, community leaders, and representatives from various organizations. Leslie Aroja, secretary of the Coordination Interfaith Harmony Committee – Thottam, welcomed the gathering, and Joseph Pinto, director of the Environmental Commission, delivered the vote of thanks. Lavina A Fernandes hosted the program.
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