Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University reaffirmed its dedication to environmental stewardship on World Environment Day 2025 by hosting a thought-provoking and action-oriented event. Centered around the global theme “Ending Plastic Pollution,” on 5th June 2025. The celebration featured insightful discussions, expert presentations, and a tree plantation drive—all aimed at fostering sustainable practices and reinforcing the University’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
The event commenced with a compelling address by Professor Debashis Bandyopadhyay, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, KISS-DU, who introduced key environmental concepts, including the Anthropocene epoch, global warming, and carbon footprint reduction. Emphasizing the urgent need to combat plastic pollution, he also highlighted tribal communities deep-rooted nature worship practices and the vital role of coral reefs as natural defenses against disasters like tsunamis.
Adding to the discourse, Professor Gopal Krishna Panda, Professor Emeritus, KISS-DU, detailed the devastating ecological consequences of plastic waste. He explained how microplastics have infiltrated ecosystems, threatening marine biodiversity, agriculture, and human health. His advocacy for circular economies—where plastics are repurposed into biofuels, bricks, and sustainable products—offered practical solutions for responsible consumption and waste management.
Professor Siba Prasad Adhikari, Professor Emeritus at KISS-DU and former Vice Chancellor of FM University, broadened the conversation by examining the overarching environmental challenges beyond plastic pollution, including global warming, climate change, and resource depletion. He traced the origins of World Environment Day back to the 1972 Stockholm Conference and urged the audience to embrace eco-conscious practices in their daily lives, reinforcing the collective responsibility to safeguard nature.
The event concluded with impactful remarks from Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar, KISS-DU, who shared personal experiences that illustrated the power of small yet consistent environmental actions. His story of planting trees in his early years served as a poignant reminder of how individual contributions can lead to lasting benefits for the planet.
In alignment with KISS-DU’s commitment to sustainability, faculty members and students actively participated in a tree plantation drive, symbolizing their pledge to reduce carbon footprints and restore ecosystems. The initiative underscored the university’s dedication to climate action and environmental consciousness, reinforcing its alignment with key UN SDGs, including Good Health and Well-being, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Life Below Water, and Life on Land.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from esteemed faculty members, including Dr. Snigdharani Panda, Chairperson Council of Deans, Dr. Yasobanta Das, Principal, and Mr. Hurendra Parida, Warden, alongside research scholars and students. The session was seamlessly hosted by Dr. Anwesha Chakraborty, Assistant Professor, KISS-DU.
As a socially responsible institution, KISS-DU continues to integrate sustainability into its academic programs, research initiatives, and campus activities. By embracing environmentally conscious practices and championing global efforts against plastic pollution, the university is shaping proactive agents of change, ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come.
