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Manipal, Karnataka – 22 April 2024 – In a significant initiative to combat plastic pollution, the Prasanna School of Public Health at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) collaborated with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), Udupi, and the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Udupi, to host an Earth Day awareness programme. The event, themed ’Plastic vs Planet’, aimed to heighten public awareness and encourage proactive measures to safeguard our environment.

The programme commenced with an inauguration by Mrs. Sharmila S, the Honourable Senior Civil Court Judge and Member Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Udupi. In her opening remarks, Mrs. Sharmila underscored the critical role of individual actions in combating environmental degradation. She emphasized that every decision to avoid single-use plastic is not just a personal choice but a crucial step towards preserving the planet for future generations. In her statement, "In our battle for environmental conservation, each decision to reject single-use plastic contributes significantly to securing our future," set a compelling tone for the day’s discussions.

A major highlight of the event was the insightful keynote address delivered by Dr. Nirmala Kumari, Director of Vaikunta Baliga College of Law, Udupi. Dr. Kumari’s presentation focused on the vital components of environmental legislation and stressed the need for strong enforcement mechanisms. She elaborated on how effective policies are essential for the sustainable management of plastics through reduction, reuse, and recycling practices. She poignantly noted, "Our legal frameworks are well-equipped to tackle environmental challenges, yet their effectiveness is contingent upon our collective commitment to enforcement and compliance." Her expert analysis provided a deeper understanding of how legal tools can be mobilized to foster environmental stewardship.

Presiding over the programme was Mrs. Vijaya Hegde, Senior Environmental Officer, KSPCB, Mangaluru. With her extensive background in environmental regulation, she enhanced the proceedings by integrating her professional experiences into the dialogue. Her contributions helped to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical environmental management strategies, offering attendees a holistic view of the challenges and solutions in addressing plastic pollution.

Adding to the day’s dynamism was Mr. Derrick Ian Joshua, Deputy Director - Environment Sustainability, MAHE. Mr. Joshua shared his enthusiasm and perspective on the significance of the event, remarking, "This gathering of environmental advocates and legal experts represented a crucial juncture in our continued efforts to tackle plastic pollution. We were dedicated to nurturing a dialogue that led to actionable, community-driven environmental solutions." His comments highlighted the event as not only a forum for raising awareness but also as a catalyst for real-world environmental action.

Dr. Teddy Andrews, Coordinator of the MSW programme welcomed the gathering, while Dr. Amrutha, Deputy Environmental Officer, KSPCB, Udupi, delivered the vote of thanks. The event was attended by the staff, students of the Prasanna School of Public Health, and public who were eager to make a tangible difference in environmental sustainability.