Thatta May 27 ,2011
Indus for All Programme- WWF Pakistan observed the International Day for Biological Diversity in collaboration with Bahria Foundation College at Sanghar, The day is proclaimed by the General Assembly of the United Nations to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity, with the objective to raise awareness on biodiversity related issues and its significance to be conserved with increased indigenous community led actions. This year, the theme of the International Day for Biological Diversity was "Biological Diversity and Forests".
Forests are the most biologically-diverse ecosystems on land, home to more than half of the terrestrial species of animals, plants & insects, and having paramount importance that biodiversity and ecosystems offer to humanity. In fact, 1.6 billion people depend on forests for their livelihoods and play a key role in the battle against climate change.
Dr. Ali Murtaza Dharejo, Principal MKJ Institute of Science & Technology highlighted the significance of the biodiversity and said that survival of human is dependent on the biodiversity and even one specie is lost the entire web of life is affected. He said that numerous species of fauna and flora have been vanished and others are at the verge of extinction. He emphasized the community role to conserve vegetation with collective initiatives. He said that an integrated approach be adopted to promote sustainable use of biodiversity.
Speaking on the occasion Nasir Ali Panhwar, Programme Coordinator, Indus for All Programme WWF-P said that conservation and sustainable use of biological resource is yet a challenge for society as a whole, and hence need collaboration and the involvement of various stakeholders including youth. He said that young generation is futuristic and has an immense potential but needs directions to play their role.
Principal Bahria Foundation College Commander Liaqat Ali said that environmental education is essential for students to cater the growing environmental challenges.
Speaking on the biodiversity conservation efforts being made by Indus for All Programme, WWF-P at Chotiari Wetlands Complex, Zafar Ali Talpur, Site Manager Chotiari Reservoir site, shared the various intervention undertaken in the area. He said that youth should be the frontline soldiers for the battle against biodiversity degradation.
Majeed Mangrio, an environmental activist, said that Chotiari Wetlands Complex is rich in biodiversity, which is threatened by numerous factors.
Naveed Ali Soomro, an environmental educationist, said highlighted the concept of nature clubs in educational institutions and the role of the club members, who can become the stewards of local natural environment. He further highlighted the potential of ecotourism in the area. He said that the Chotiari Conservation & Information Centre established by WWF would serve as a hub facility for eco-tourists, conservation researchers and educationist.
The students presented tableaus, skits, nature songs performances, and speeches. A nature club led college greening campaign was also launched with the plantation of trees on this occasion.
For further Information:
Nasir Ali Panhwar
Programme Coordinator
Programme Management Unit - Karachi
+92-213- 4544791-2
napanhwar@gmail.com
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