Merely acquiring academic knowledge is not enough; today’s world demands awareness of forest and water conservation, emphasized environmentalist Shivananda Kalave. He stated that true environmental protection is achievable only through the experiential understanding of forests.
He was speaking at the sixth edition of the memorial lecture series ‘Arivina Deevege’ in honor of late Dr. B. Yashovarma, organized by the Kannada and Journalism Departments of SDM College. His lecture, titled ‘Alternative Approaches to Environmental Conservation’, shed light on pressing ecological challenges.
Kalave pointed out that rapid urbanization is leading to deforestation and landslides in coastal regions and the Western Ghats. He emphasized that introducing foreign plant species without integrating local ecological knowledge has disrupted environmental balance. Understanding nature’s laws and engaging actively in afforestation efforts is key to ensuring environmental sustainability, he said.
Earlier, Sonia Yashovarma recalled Dr. Yashovarma’s dedication to environmental awareness, noting how his commitment led to the implementation of conservation initiatives both at the college and in his personal life.
Presiding over the event, Principal Dr. B.A. Kumar Hegde highlighted how human ignorance and environmentally harmful activities have disrupted the atmosphere, stressing the need for environmental consciousness to ensure a healthier future. The head of the Journalism Department, Dr. Bhaskar Hegde, delivered the welcome address, while Dr. Bojamma K.N., head of the Kannada Department, offered the vote of thanks.