On World Environment Day, the ‘Go Green’ campaign at Alsa Mall had its worth.
Minister for Environment BV Ramanaa inaugurated the event organised by the Indian Community Welfare Organization (ICWO), Action Aid and SCI-India, and took the oath of “I Promise, I Go Green” along with the participants and released a poster.
Traditional art and dance forms such as therukoothu (street plays), thappaatam, oyilaattam and karakaatam were performed by students from the Yetram Kalai Kuzhu, on the theme.
Kumaresan, a trainer from the troupe recited traditional folk songs, conveying the importance of environmental protection. Replacement of incandescent light bulbs with CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamps) bulbs, use of filters to control chlorofluorocarbons from refrigerators, afforestation, use of plastics, garbage disposal and use of cultivable lands for construction purposes, were some of the areas Kumaresan touched upon in his songs.
AJ Hariharan, Director - ICWO, said that sensitisation on environmental issues among youth was important as they would take active participation in bringing about a change.Janardhanam, former president, SCI, Tamil Nadu, stressed that reduced use of carbon would help protect the environment. Esther Mariaselvam, programme manager, Action Aid, called for awareness on resources available in the environment and balance in ecosystem.
The ICWO, a welfare organisation, supports similar activities, promotes community events and other environmental protection activities, while Action Aid strives to eradicate poverty in the country and takes green initiatives.