Rajouri, Apr 22: The Environmental Sciences Department, Centre for Biodiversity Studies, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Rajouri celebrated World Earth Day with great enthusiasm. A brainstorming session was organised to mark this year’s theme “Planet VS Plastics,” which saw active participation from staff, scholars, and students of Environmental Sciences.
Prof Akbar Masood, Vice Chancellor of BGSBU, highlighted the significance of the 2024 Earth Day theme, emphasising the urgent need to shift towards sustainable practices for the future. He underscored the importance of collective action in repairing the planet’s ecosystems, addressing climate change, and preserving biodiversity for future generations. The VC also mentioned various campaigns and events aimed at motivating people to come together and find solutions to global environmental challenges.
Dr A A Shah, Associate Dean of the School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, reflected on the origins of Earth Day as a response to environmental crises, noting its role in launching the modern environmental movement. He highlighted the ongoing international significance of Earth Day and its message of living in harmony with nature.
Dr Shreekar Pant, Coordinator of the Centre for Biodiversity Studies, highlighted the importance of World Earth Day, commemorating the anniversary of the Modern Environmental Movement that began in 1970. He said there is a need to protect and safeguard the Earth and its species, making it a better place for future generations. This year marks the 54th anniversary of Earth Day.
The brainstorming session saw active participation from faculty, students, and research scholars from the Environmental Sciences Department and the Centre for Biodiversity Studies. Dr Rifat Azam, Assistant Professor of Environmental Sciences, concluded the program with a formal vote of thanks.
