The NSS Unit of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics conducted a session on the “Tide Turner Plastic Challenge” on 26th September 2024 from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm in the Smart Classroom. This session aimed to engage students in combating plastic pollution and promoting sustainable environmental practices. The resource persons for the session were Ms. Lisha Da Costa, Senior Programme Officer, Marine Programme, WWF India, and Ms. Riya Rahul, Associate Manager, SAAHAS Zero Waste.
The session began with an introduction of the resource persons by Ms. Abigayle Rodrigues, from TY B.Com. The speaker Ms. Riya Rahul provided a comprehensive overview of the Tide Turner Plastic Challenge – an international initiative organized by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in collaboration with several partners. This initiative aims to engage youth in the fight against plastic pollution by educating, engaging, and empowering them to advocate for reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental sustainability.
In addition to discussing the challenge, Ms. Riya highlighted the significance of waste segregation, proper decomposing of waste, and minimizing single-use plastic consumption to contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment. The session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Abigayle Rodrigues. This session served as an important step toward raising awareness about environmental issues and encouraging students to take action in addressing plastic pollution. A total of 115 students (46 male, 69 female) participated in the event. The event was coordinated by faculty members Mr. Sanjay Velip (NSS PO-Incharge), Mr. Ainsley Bernard (NSS PO), Ms. Akshada Gaonkar (NSS PO), Ms. Kalpana Parab (NSS PO) and Ms. Puja Gaonkar (NSS PO)
Expected Outcome of the Activity
The session aimed to educate students on the harmful impacts of single-use plastics on ecosystems, human health, and the climate. It sought to inspire youth to take personal responsibility in reducing plastic waste and encourage their communities to embrace sustainable practices. Additionally, the session aimed to build a network of young environmental leaders committed to advocating for change through education, community engagement, and awareness initiatives.
