Organizers and participants during the during the World Environment Day observed by Merama Youth Society, Kigwema in collaboration with Kohima Forest Division & DAO, Kohima at Akiile Potato Farm, Kigwema, Hydrangea Garden and Rhododendron trial. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Kohima | June 5
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Kohima, Dr Sevono Seletsu, called for united and responsible action to combat plastic pollution, terming it a global crisis with local implications.
Speaking at a World Environment Day programme organised by Merama Youth Society, Kigwema, in collaboration with the Kohima Forest Division and the District Agriculture Office at Akiile Potato Farm, Hydrangea Garden, and Rhododendron trial site, Dr Seletsu stressed the importance of adopting eco-friendly habits such as rejecting single-use plastics and using cloth bags.
She expressed concern over waste mismanagement at tourist destinations and suggested stricter monitoring measures. Highlighting that 430 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally each year, she warned of its long-term health and environmental impacts, including the presence of microplastics in human blood.
Dr Seletsu acknowledged the difficulty of completely eliminating plastic use but urged for significant reduction to decrease demand. She also underlined the urgency of addressing climate change and conserving energy.
District Agriculture Officer, Kekhrieletuo Yhome, echoed concerns over widespread plastic usage and stressed local-level responsibility in waste management. He also pointed to biodiversity loss in the region due to unsustainable exploitation of natural resources and the need for stronger civic discipline.
The event featured a tree plantation and cleanliness drive. Earlier, the programme was chaired by Merama Youth Society President Thepfukelie Phira, with a welcome address by Treasurer Neisievi Mera.
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