Biggest Ecological Problems

PATNA: Altogether 25 educational institutions came forward for the pre-celebration of World Earth Day on the premises of Tarumitra here on Friday. Various events were organised to connect the school with the nature and biodiversity.

Cheerful students sang 'earth anthem' in the morning assembly which was followed by a plantation drive at Tarumitra. Students prepared and sowed seed bombs of 'kachnar', state plant of Bihar. Students, teachers, principals and social activists participated in roundtable conference to discuss the status of environment in today's education system.

While addressing the gathering, Fr Robert Athickal talked about the importance of biodiversity for the proper functioning of ecosystem. "The depletion of biodiversity is a biggest ecological problem that the world is facing today. The climate is rapidly warming due to the deforestation and many natural species are on the verge of extinction. We need to conserve the species as once it's gone, it won't come back. The goals have to be about ecological restoration and function, " said Fr Robert, the force behind the Tarumitra.

Fr Robert added, "Environmental education should be a part of the curriculum and it should be integrated into each subject. It's time to sensitize the future generation."
Among the many suggestions that came up included introduction of national ecologically oriented student bodies like National Service Scheme (NSS) to help the students understand the biodiversity and natural species. Many were in favour of introducing some kind of grading system for environmental studies.
Students shared their experiences of the celebration of World Earth Day and also talked about how they are going to celebrate the day this year. Delhi Public school, Don Bosco Academy, Notre Dame Academy, Radiant International School, Baldwin Academy, St Dominic Savio's High School, A N College, St. Xavier's College and other educational institutions participated in the programme.
A presentation on ecological crisis was shown to assess the present scenario of environmental problems the earth was coping with. Students exhibited the varieties of seeds and spices during the programme and talked about their importance. The participants left their hand impression on wall as a promise to safeguard the environment.