UNESCO Expands World Network of Biosphere Reserves
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) made a significant announcement, approving the designation of 11 new Biosphere Reserves across 11 countries. This expansion brings the total number of sites in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves to an impressive 759, spanning 136 countries worldwide. This development marks a crucial step forward in global efforts to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable development.
The latest additions to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve list showcase a diverse range of ecosystems and cultural landscapes across the globe. These new sites include: Kempen-Broek Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (Belgium, Kingdom of the Netherlands), Darién Norte Chocoano Biosphere Reserve (Colombia), Madre de las Aguas Biosphere Reserve (Dominican Republic), Niumi Biosphere Reserve (Gambia), Colli Euganei Biosphere Reserve (Italy), Julian Alps Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (Italy, Slovenia), Khar Us Lake Biosphere Reserve (Mongolia), Apayaos Biosphere Reserve (Philippines), Changnyeong Biosphere Reserve (Republic of Korea), Val d'Aran Biosphere Reserve (Spain) and Irati Biosphere Reserve (Spain).
A Biosphere Reserve is an international designation granted by UNESCO for areas that represent significant natural and cultural landscapes.
Jul 11, 2024
BSF Organises "Grow with the Trees" Plantation Drive in Srinagar
The Border Security Force (BSF), in collaboration with the State Bank of India (SBI), organised the "Grow with the Trees" plantation drive at the BSF Headquarters in Srinagar. The initiative aimed to create a greener environment and promote the importance of tree plantation, involving BSF officials, jawans, SBI officials, and school children.
The drive aimed to foster a sense of community and teamwork while addressing environmental sustainability. It saw participation from BSF officials, jawans, SBI officials, and school children, all contributing to make the BSF Headquarters and school premises greener.
Jul 10, 2024
Uttar Pradesh Unveils 'Mitra Van' Initiative along Borders
The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, unveiled a major environmental initiative called 'Mitra Van' (Friendship Forest) as part of the Vriksharopan Jan Abhiyan-2024. This ambitious project aims to enhance greenery along the borders of Uttar Pradesh, including its international border with Nepal.
The 'Mitra Van' initiative will be implemented in 35 districts bordering neighbouring states.
BSF Organises "Grow with the Trees" Plantation Drive in Srinagar
Border Security Forces (BSF), in association with SBI Bank, organised a "Grow with the Trees" plantation drive at BSF Headquarters in Srinagar.
With the aim of creating a green environment and promoting the importance of tree plantations, the BSF officials and Jawans, along with the officials from SBI Bank and the school children at the Kendria Vidyalay at the BSF Headquarters, took part in the drive.
The initiative did not only create a more sustainable environment but also fostered a sense of community and teamwork among the participants.
Jul 09, 2024
Tata Power Launches 'Ghar Ghar Solar' Initiative in Uttar Pradesh
Tata Power Solar Systems Limited launched the 'Ghar Ghar Solar' initiative in Uttar Pradesh, starting from Varanasi, aimed at providing every home with clean energy through rooftop solar solutions. This initiative promises substantial financial savings and environmental benefits for residents.
Residents can avail a maximum subsidy of up to Rs. 1,08,000 on rooftop solar installation, combining Central and State Government subsidies. Tata Power Solar offers state-of-the-art technology with bifacial modules for higher efficiency and durability. Flexible financing options and a quick turnaround time ensure hassle-free adoption of solar power.
Jul 07, 2024
Global Conclave on Plastics Recycling and Sustainability (GCPRS)
The four-day Global Conclave on Plastic Recycling and Sustainability (GCPRS) was held at the Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, Chief Guest Smt. Nivedita Shukla Verma, Secretary, Union Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers inaugurated the conference. Smt. Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary of the Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, attended the session as the Guest of Honour. Among other notable attendees were AIPMA President Manish Dedhia, CPMA President Kamal Nanavati, AIPMA Governing Council Chairman Shri Arvind Mehta, GCPRS 2024 Chairman Hiten Bheda, Pranav Kumar (CPMA), Prof. (Dr.) Shishir Sinha (Plastindia Foundation), Ravish Kamath (Plastindia).
In her inaugural address, Smt. Nivedita Shukla Verma commended the efforts of the AIPMA and the CPMA for organising a conclave on a topic of paramount relevance, at a time when only ten percent of the total plastic waste generated globally was recycled.
The conclave, jointly organised by the All India Plastics Manufacturers' Association (AIPMA) and the Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturers' Association (CPMA), focused on the rising use of plastic, its impact on the environment and also on the steps needed for solutions.
Bajaj Rolls out World's First CNG Bike
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari launched Bajaj Auto's new bike, 'Freedom', the world's first CNG motorcycle. He praised it as 'eco-friendly' and 'sustainable', highlighting the significant issues of air, sound, and water pollution, and the high cost of fossil fuel imports in India.
The bike includes a mono-linked suspension system for smooth rides on bumpy roads and a 2-litre auxiliary petrol tank for added convenience.
The engine is specifically designed for CNG, with tailored piston shapes and larger cooling jets and fins to manage engine temperature.