Puttur: St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, joined the global community in celebrating ‘World Environment Day 2025’ through a series of awareness activities and green initiatives. The event was collaboratively organised by the Departments of Botany, Zoology, and the Eco Club of the college.
Delivering the keynote address, Wilfred Rodrigues, Assistant Director, Taluk Panchayat, Puttur, highlighted the alarming challenges posed by plastic pollution, especially the improper disposal of non-biodegradable items such as baby diapers in rural areas. He urged students to take responsibility in mitigating environmental degradation through mindful everyday actions.
The Principal, Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, presided over the event. In his presidential address, he stressed the importance of instilling environmental consciousness among the youth and advocated for adopting small, consistent steps toward sustainable living.
In her introductory remarks, Shashiprabha B. from the Department of Botany appealed to the student community to initiate a meaningful change by rejecting the use of unnecessary plastics in their daily lives.
The program witnessed the active participation of dignitaries including Dr Naveenchandra Kulal, District Surveillance Officer, and Dr Deepak Rai, Taluk Health Officer. Also present on the occasion were Dr Malini K., Dean of Science; Dr Edwin S. D’Souza, Finance Officer of the College; Smitha Vivek, Assistant Professor, Department of Botany; Shreeraksha B. V., Head of the Department of Zoology; and Shivani Mallya, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology.
The formal program was compered by Ria D’Souza of III B.Sc., Yajnesh of II B.Sc. delivered the vote of thanks.
Following the indoor sessions, students participated in an environmental awareness rally, carrying banners to spread the message of ecological responsibility. As a symbolic gesture, saplings were also planted in the college campus.