Mangaluru: The Centre for Environmental Concern (CEC) and Eco Club of St Aloysius PU College, Mangaluru, organized a programme to commemorate World Environment Day 2026. The event was held under the theme ‘Let’s Nurture Nature for a Better Future’ with the message “Our Earth. Our Responsibility. Our Future.’ to reinforce the collective commitment towards environmental protection and sustainable living.
The programme commenced with a warm welcome to the gathering by Leslie R. D’Souza. The Principal, Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, addressed the students and staff, emphasizing the vital role of youth in safeguarding the environment. In his message, he urged students to closely observe plants, creatures, and nature, stressing that everything is interconnected and that human beings are an integral part of the ecosystem. He warned that the Earth is “bleeding” and that environmental destruction is becoming disastrous, calling for an urgent ecological conversion. He concluded with a strong reminder that the death of Earth would mean the death of humanity, and therefore protecting nature is ultimately protecting us.
The chief guest for the occasion was Suma Nayak, Advocate and Trustee of Animal Care Trust, Shaktinagar, Mangaluru. In her keynote address on “Our Earth. Our Responsibility. Our Future,” she highlighted the deep connection between animal welfare and ecological balance. Drawing from her experience, Nayak urged students to take responsibility through simple yet impactful actions such as reducing single-use plastic, conserving water, segregating waste, and showing compassion towards all living beings. She also stressed the importance of the three R’s – Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle – as essential practices for sustainable living. Her inspiring talk strongly resonated with the audience and aligned perfectly with the day’s theme of nurturing nature for a better future.
A special segment of the programme was dedicated to honouring staff members for their dedicated service to the college’s green initiatives. Jerald D’Souza and Anil Ivan D’Souza from the maintenance department were felicitated for their committed efforts in maintaining the greenery and supporting plantation activities on the campus. Their consistent contribution has greatly enhanced the beauty and ecological environment of the college.
The proceedings were smoothly compered by Preedal Monteiro. As a symbolic gesture towards the theme, another highlight of the programme was the planting of saplings in the college garden, where all dignitaries, teachers of the CEC and Eco Club, and students actively participated.
An engaging activity was also organized during the programme. A large painting depicting the elements of Earth- sky, land, and water -was displayed, and students along with dignitaries pasted small images of various creatures such as aquatic life, birds, and terrestrial animals onto the respective sections. This creative activity beautifully reinforced the concept of biodiversity and the interdependence of all forms of life in nature.
The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Sharli Reem D’Souza, Coordinator, who expressed gratitude to the chief guest, the Principal, the management, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students for their active participation and support.
The programme concluded successfully with enthusiastic participation from staff and students. Organized by the Centre for Environmental Concern and Eco Club, the celebration effectively promoted environmental awareness, recognized the invaluable service of staff members towards a greener campus, and inspired everyone to uphold their responsibility in building a sustainable future.