Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 23: The Environment Commission of Holy Cross Church, Cordel, Kulshekar, organised a talk on waste management on August 23 at Frad Saib Hall.
The programme started with a prayer song, by invoking god's blessings followed by an address by the parish priest, Fr Clifford Fernandes, who welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of responsible waste management.
The resource person, Nagaraj Bajal, then delivered an informative and thought-provoking talk on waste management. He explained the importance of segregating waste into four categories: wet waste, dry waste, sanitary waste, and special-care waste. He also stressed the need to reduce the use of plastic and encouraged everyone to use paper or cloth bags as alternatives.
Bajal explained the harmful effects of plastic on human life and the environment.
He spoke about the long-lasting nature of plastic, which can remain in the soil for hundreds of years, affecting plant growth and damaging the environment. He also explained how animals often consume plastic, which cannot be digested and may remain inside their bodies, causing illness and even death.
He further highlighted how plastic waste contaminates water sources and harms aquatic life. Through practical examples, he made the gathering aware of how careless disposal of plastic can have serious consequences for human health, animals, water bodies, and society as a whole.
Nagaraj also highlighted the serious situation at the Vamanjoor dump yard. He explained how people handling unsegregated, rotten and contaminated waste are exposed to serious health risks. Children and women living and working around such areas have reportedly suffered from allergies, wounds and other health problems.
He urged everyone to take responsibility and stop dumping all types of waste together. Instead, waste should be properly segregated into different categories at the source. This simple practice can protect human health, reduce the burden on landfills and help keep our environment clean.
The programme was attended by assistant parish priest Fr Denzil, vice president of the Pastoral Council Ruth Castelinho, convenor of the 22nd Commission Wilfred D’Souza, and convenor of the Small Christian Community Vincent Lobo, along with other parishioners.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the resource person, parish priest, organisers, and all those who participated in making the awareness programme meaningful and successful.
The programme served as a valuable reminder that proper waste segregation, reducing plastic use, and responsible disposal of waste are essential for protecting our environment and building a healthier society.
This programme was organised by the dedicated members of the Environment Commission—Jovita, Juliana, Lolita, Shamina, Matilda, Janet, Roshan, and Walter. Their valuable contribution of time, effort, and energy played a significant role in making the programme a successful one.