Last week, an environment workshop spanning three days took place in Kankumbi near Khanapur in Belgaum district, attracting conservation enthusiasts. Nyla Coelho, the organizer, aimed to raise awareness among the state’s politicians, citizens, and environmentalists about the environmental issues in the Western Ghats and North Karnataka.
Scientist and writer Sagar Dhara discussed the converging crisis of the 21st century, emphasizing potential consequences in energy, economy, and the environment due to the depletion of inexpensive fossil fuels. K.P. Suresh and Soil Vasu addressed the audience on the importance of soil protection and discussed government policies impacting sustainable farming practices.
Anjaneya Reddy from Chikballapura and Nirmala Gowda from Paani Earth Foundation emphasized the necessity of preserving water resources. They provided examples of successful initiatives, including interventions that have protected rivers in Bengaluru from industrial pollution.
Conservationist Norma Alvares covered various environmental laws, highlighting the positive role of the Right to Information Act in addressing environmental concerns. She underscored the crucial involvement of local citizens and panchayat-level bodies in conservation efforts.
Advocate Vinay Srinivas stressed the significance of understanding local environmental issues in the context of Acts and Rules in Karnataka.
Writer Nagesh Hegde highlighted the need for proficient communicators to communicate the message of current climate issues to citizens.
Shree Kumar, a natural farmer, talked about sustainable land management practices and lifestyles. Based on his personal experience as the founding member of the Sangatya Community Homestead near Karkala in Dakshina Kannada, he provided perspectives on sustainable living.
Advocate Basavaprabhu Hosakeri and Janardan Kesaragadde discussed the necessity of establishing an organization, Parisarakkaagi Naavu, dedicated to climate advocacy and outlined its agenda.
Environment activist Dileep Kamat provided a historical overview of various people-led movements such as Chipko and Kittiko Hachchiko that have achieved success in environmental conservation.
Drawing from personal experience in leading various protests, including Save Western Ghats, campaigns against monoculture plantations, and efforts for labor rights, he shared insights into his involvement in these initiatives.
Rural development activist Prakash Bhat provided insights into the challenges of implementing policies and translating them to the general public. He emphasized the practical aspects of building organizations and mobilizing people in environmental struggles.
Alternative learning systems expert Sanjeev Kulkarni highlighted the importance of establishing a robust group of environmentalists capable of undertaking sustained and collaborative initiatives.
Topics such as the planned river diversion projects on the Mahadayi and its tributaries, Kalasa and Banduri, as well as the consequences of alterations in land use patterns in Bhimgad sanctuary, were deliberated upon.
Climate change communicators Nagesh Hegde and Nagaraj Adve unveiled Kannada books during the event, with the participation of 110 delegates from various parts of the state.
