Kochi: Kerala might be among must-see destinations listed by the National Geographic survey but the “serene” beaches and “greenish” landscapes are facing a threat from the disposal of waste, especially plastic, by tourists. This point has now become a topic of study in foreign universities, which are sending students to the state to make case studies.
The 14-member group of students from the National University of Singapore arrived at Kochi as part of the “Clean Environment Programme” and tied up with various city schools to clean tourist spots and to pass over “tips” to keep them clean and tidy.
“As per the partnership agreement, the group took classes on environmental conservation for our students and then took up a mission to clean Fort Kochi beach and 15 of our students went with them to the beach. They were equipped with tiny machines and we spent one hour cleaning the beaches and were shocked to collect 38 kilo waste, mostly plastic,” said Ms Anupama Hari, Environment Programme Co-ordinator, ToC H Public School, Vytilla.
The group noted that an awareness drive against public disposal of waste is the need of the hour and the best place to start is the school.
“The upcoming generation could effect a change in the habits of people. If we could collect 38 kg waste in one hour, similar drives by school students could help keep streets, bus stops and walkways clean besides passing on the message to onlookers,” said Guo Meiqi, Team leader of the Singapore University Group.
“The visit is as part of our assignment ‘Overseas Community Involvement Programme’ and Kerala came up immediately in our minds. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the world but is facing a threat of losing the distinction due to many reasons. Environmental pollution is one,” said Liu Guanyu, another student.
