National Level Awareness Campaign on Eco-Responsible Aquaculture was conducted by College of Fisheries (COF), Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) on the occasion of World Environment Day (WED) to create awareness about environment protection and eco-responsibility. The WED was celebrated for the 1st time in 1973 after its announcement in 1972 by the United Nations. On its 50th anniversary in 2023, WED is being celebrated under the ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’ campaign, informed Dr. Meera D. Ansal, Dean COF, GADVASU. Aquatic ecosystems serve as the ultimate sink to pollutants, receiving contaminants like pesticides, fertilizers, antibiotics and wastes indirectly along with runoff from catchment areas and being dumped with industrial effluent, domestic sewage, garbage and livestock waste directly. Further, increasing use of plastics and accumulation of microplastics in the oceans and other aquatic resources is a great matter of concern as it is expected to harm the aquatic biodiversity, associated wildlife and human population, she further added.
Dr. A.K. Panigrahi, Principal Scientist, ICAR- Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture (CIBA), Chennai delivered an expert lecture on ‘Eco-based Innovative Aquaculture Technologies’. He highlighted key issues and required strategic plans, involving efficient water use, food safety standards, climate smart technologies and diversification, informed Dr. Vaneet Inder Kaur, Principal Scientist and Organizing Secretary. Poster making, poetry and slogan competitions held on the occasion, coordinated by Dr. Vikas Phulia and Dr. Sarabjeet Kaur, received thought provoking entries and winners were felicitated with appreciation awards for showcasing environmental concerns through their art work.
Dr. Inderjeet Singh, Vice Chancellor GADVASU expressed that the world is witnessing harsh consequences of global warming every day and climate change is the biggest challenge in upkeeping sustainability of our food production systems. Hence, immediate action is required to restore the green cover of the earth. Say no to single use plastic, start pooling vehicles, stop wasting water and promote recycling of waste to save the environment from any further damages, he added.
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