Lead fight against plastic pollution: Collector urges students at Salem

District Collector Dr. R. Brindadevi, urged students to take the lead in combating plastic pollution during an awareness program at the Konganapuram Government Boys Higher Secondary School on July 3, 2024. The event, held in commemoration of International Plastic Bag Free Day, aimed to educate young minds on the environmental hazards of single-use plastics and promote sustainable alternatives.
“The collective effort of the community, led by the youth, is essential in transforming the anti-plastic movement into a widespread public initiative, thereby fostering a healthier and more sustainable society.  Tamil Nadu government has banned single-use plastics, encouraging the use of alternatives such as cloth bags. Continuous awareness campaigns have been conducted across Salem District to promote this initiative. The "Green Yercaud" project, focused on enhancing the environment in the prominent tourist spot of Yercaud, includes measures such as banning plastic use, promoting alternatives, and recycling solid waste” said the collector.
In her speech, Dr. Brindadevi discussed also the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on water bodies and groundwater levels, emphasizing how plastic debris prevents rainwater from seeping into the ground, thereby affecting groundwater levels. 
. "The contribution of the younger generation is crucial in the campaign against plastics," she said. "By working together, we can turn this movement into a widespread public initiative, creating a prosperous and sustainable society," the collector added.
The event was attended by key officials, including Mr. K. Udayakumar ,District Environmental Engineer, District Primary Education Officer Mr. M. Kabir, other educational officials, assistant project officers, and teachers.