Event Date : 05th  June, 2023

The NCSCM remains committed to promoting the themes of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) on the Promenade Beach at Puducherry. Promenade Beach is a famous tourist destination that attracts national and international tourists. NCSCM scientists conducted an awareness and cleanup drive at this beach. As part of this event, about 75 participants took part in the LiFE pledge and signature campaign. Further, scientists engaged with tourists and emphasised the need for avoiding single-use plastics through the use of eco-friendly alternatives, responsible tourism, segregation of waste at source, conserving water, energy, and biodiversity, and adopting sustainable lifestyles. The participants were made aware of the LiFE themes by displaying posters, pamphlets, and LiFE mascots. NCSCM staff taught the tourist in a simple manner about the sensitivity of the marine habitat, the impact of climate change, and the need to live in harmony with nature. The event provided tourists with an overview of coastal ecosystems and helped them understand the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems by avoiding littering’. This public awareness campaign aims to improve the health of the oceans through collective action and large-scale community participation (Janbhagidari). The participants took part in the cleanup drive, and about 20 kg of plastic waste were collected, most of which was single-use plastic. The collected waste was handed over to the municipal corporation for safe disposal.

Event Date : 05th  June, 2023

In the Mandya region of Karnataka, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary includes a diversified habitat, including big, deep reservoirs with a lot of islands and islets in the middle of the Cauvery River. As part of the public mobilisation of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) campaign, scientists from NCSCM and representatives of the Karnataka Forest Department trained tourists and local residents about the wetland ecosystem and the goods and services it provides. Visitors were made more aware of Mission LIFE and eco-friendly living practices. The tourists were made aware of the necessity of wild life conservation, sustainable tourism, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle. Hundreds of participants joined a green pledge and signature campaign against littering and the need to live in harmony with the environment, including a group of 50 cyclists.

Event Date : 05th  June, 2023

The NCSCM has launched yet another effort to promote Mission LiFE themes in Chilika, the largest brackish water lake in Asia, which is located in the state of Odisha. It has also been designated a Ramsar site, which is a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. The lake covers an area of about 1,100 sq. km. and is known for its rich biodiversity, including a wide variety of bird species. Chilika Lake is a significant ecological and economic resource for the region and is a popular tourist destination as well. Chilika Lake supports both natural conservation efforts and the livelihoods of local communities. However, the lake has faced several environmental challenges in recent years, including marine litter.

On the awareness front, NCSCM scientists sensitised lake visitors and the public on the importance of wetlands and their ecosystem services and functions. The scientists explained to over 60 tourists from all over the state the various themes of Mission LiFE, such as conservation of lake ecology and biodiversity, reducing single-use plastics, using eco-friendly alternatives to plastics, sustainable and responsible fishing, responsible tourism, conservation of biodiversity, including irrawaddy dolphins, and a healthy lifestyle. About 20 participants took part in the clean-up drive, and about 25 kg of plastic waste were collected, most of which was single-use plastic. Additionally, NCSCM scientists sensitised tourists, local vendors, and representatives of the fishing community on their important role in sustainable management of backwater tourism, wetland conservation, de-weeding lakes, and the need to live in harmony with nature. Awareness was also raised among tourists, boat owners, beach vendors, and houseboat operators on the various ecosystem services provided by the lake, helping them understand the need to protect the lake by avoiding ‘littering’ when visiting these fragile ecosystems. They placed further emphasis on reducing litter generation in everyday life as the most significant step towards positive environmental gain. The public was made aware of the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) and the ‘Amrit Dharohar’ scheme, which encourages afforestation and mangrove and encourages conservation of vital wetlands in India. During the event, participants took part in the LiFE pledge and the signature campaign in support of the LiFE mission and safeguarding the environment. As part of the event, placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed to describe Mission LiFE to the local community.

Event Date : 05th  June, 2023

NCSCM scientist Dr. Robin R.S. participated and presented the significance of sustainable building practices in coastal environments, including islands and Mission LiFE, organised by the CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre (SERC) at Chennai. This event, organised as part of CSIR-SERC, is celebrating ‘One Week One Lab’ campaign to showcase their recent achievements in R&D, technology development, and knowledge-based services for the civil infrastructure of the country. Around 200 participants, including top policymakers, officials of regulatory bodies, and government organisations, shared their experiences in sustainable development. The event paved the way to create a permanent platform to connect all stakeholders to ensure faster deliveries and deployment of technologies. In addition, this can also provide an excellent opportunity for the co-development of NextGen technologies and products.

Event Date : 05th  June, 2023

In an ongoing effort to promote the principles of Mission LiFE, NCSCM scientists undertook a public outreach at Agatti Island, one of the inhabited islands in the Lakshadweep Union Territory. Water scarcity is a significant issue in many parts of the Lakshadweep Islands. The Lakshadweep archipelago faces challenges in accessing potable water due to its limited water resources and dependence on rainfall for freshwater supply. To address the issue of water scarcity, one potential solution is rainwater harvesting (RWH), which involves the collection and storage of rain rather than allowing it to run off. About 20 islanders took part in the awareness programme.
During the event, NCSCM scientists sensitised islanders on the need for rainwater harvesting and its vital role in ensuring water security, adapting to climate change, reducing dependence on external sources, promoting environmental conservation, and fostering community resilience on small islands. It is a sustainable and practical solution that can address the unique water challenges faced by these communities. NCSCM scientists made the islanders aware of the LiFE mission and the need to reduce plastics, conserve water and energy, and live in harmony with nature. During the event, islanders undertook the green pledge and the signature campaign in support of the LiFE mission for safeguarding the environment. As part of the event, placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the island to describe Mission to the island community.

Event Date : 04th  June, 2023

In an ongoing effort to promote the principles of Mission LiFE, NCSCM scientists conducted an awareness programme on the LiFE mission at Bharathi Park, Puducherry Beach, a famous destination that attracts numerous tourists of national and international origin. About 100 participants, mostly children, took part in the awareness programme, where the visitors were sensitised about the need to reduce plastics, conserve biodiversity, conserve energy, conserve water, and also practice sustainable lifestyles. The event gave tourists an introduction to coastal habitats and helped them recognise the significance of maintaining vulnerable ecosystems by avoiding ‘littering’. The scientists educated beachgoers, visitors, shop owners, and beach vendors on the numerous ecosystem services supplied by beaches as well as the need to reduce litter generation in everyday life for environmental quality. They emphasised the significance of following the litter reduction hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recover, and dispose) to reduce their daily litter footprint. As a part of the event, participants took LiFE’s pledge to stop littering and to live a green and sustainable life. Posters and pamphlets were distributed in the park as part of this event, and employees emphasised the significance of Mission LIFE to the public.

Event Date : 04th  June, 2023

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) has taken another initiative to promote Mission LiFE’s themes on Agatti Island, Lakshadweep, with a focus on raising public awareness and educating coastal fishermen and the local community about the need to protect sea turtles. The island is about 459 km off the coast of Kerala and has an area of about 3.84 km2 with a population of about 7,000. Fishing and tourism are important parts of the economy of the small islands. There are more than 300 species of turtles on the planet. Some of them are endangered due to pollution, habitat destruction, and predators. These shelled reptile species are found in different environments around the world and play important roles in their respective ecosystems. Turtles live mainly in the sea for a period of about 80 years, whereas tortoises are mainly terrestrial and can survive up to 300 years.

NCSCM scientists educated islanders about the important conservation needs of sea turtles and their nesting sites. They emphasised the importance of conserving turtle habitat and reducing pollution (mainly plastic) to protect the future of these remarkable creatures. Marine litter poses a major threat to turtle populations, as turtles often mistake plastic bags and other debris for food in coastal waters, leading to serious health problems and even death. Beach clean-up initiatives near turtle nesting areas can help protect turtles from the impact of litter pollution. Agatti Island provides important nesting sites for several species of sea turtles. Measures to protect turtle eggs and establish hatcheries have been proposed for turtle breeding sites susceptible to disturbance and predation. NCSCM has conducted public awareness campaigns and educational programmes for islanders, including fishermen, students, and tourists. These initiatives focused on highlighting the ecological importance of turtles and their conservation status, not indulging in using bright flashlights during the breeding season. This campaign highlighted the importance and necessity of protecting sea turtles to prevent baby turtles from falling prey to birds. The participants took the LiFE pledge to protect the environment, avoid single-use plastics, practice responsible tourism, and protect marine biodiversity. As part of this event, posters and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach. NCSCM scientists explained to the participants the importance of Mission LiFE for the protection of coastal and island biodiversity.

Event Date : 04th  June, 2023

The NCSCM has launched yet another effort to promote Mission LiFE themes in the Ranganathittu Wetland, the largest bird sanctuary and the first Ramsar site in Karnataka. Ranganathittu bird sanctuary is located in Mandya district, Karnataka, and has a diverse habitat, including large and deep reservoirs with a number of islands and islets located in the mid-stream of the Cauvery River. Within the Western Ghats Biological Diversity Hotspot, the site represents a unique riverine ecosystem comprising flora and fauna and sustaining a spectacular congregation of water birds and waders. As part of the mass mobilisation of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) campaign, scientists from NCSCM and representatives of the Forest Department educated visitors and members of the local community about the wetland ecosystem and the functions and services it offers. They also emphasised the need to safeguard wetlands and their biodiversity. The public was made aware of the ‘Amrit Dharohar’ Initiative, which encourages the conservation of vital wetlands in India. The programme provided tourists with a brief overview of the wetland environment, the need to conserve wetlands, and how to avoid littering while visiting the wetlands. This event trained the tourists in a simple manner about the environment, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. Tourists were sensitised about the themes of Mission LIFE and eco-friendly lifestyles. This public outreach campaign also focused on improving wetland conservation through collective action by the local community. This event was carried out to raise awareness about the reduction of single-use plastics, responsible tourism, waste segregation at the source, and biodiversity conservation. Placards and pamphlets were displayed on the wetland as part of this event, and the participants took part in a green pledge and signature campaign against littering.

Event Date : 03nd  June, 2023

NCSCM scientists conducted an awareness and cleanup drive at Samiyarpettai Beach, located in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu and attracting visitors from all over the state. About 50 participants took part in the clean-up drive, and about 80 kg of plastic waste were collected, most of which was single-use plastic. During the event, more than 250 participants, including beachgoers, beach vendors, shopkeepers, and tourists, were sensitised on the themes of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE). Further, NCSCM scientists engaged with tourists and emphasised the need for avoiding single-use plastics through the use of eco-friendly alternatives, responsible tourism, segregation of waste at source, conserving water, energy, and biodiversity, and adopting sustainable lifestyles. Besides, NCSCM staff taught the tourist in a simple manner about the sensitivity of the marine habitat, the impact of climate change, and the need to live in harmony with nature. The event provided tourists with an overview of coastal ecosystems and helped them understand the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems by avoiding ‘trampling’ and ‘littering’. The scientists raised awareness among beachgoers, tourists, shop owners, and beach vendors on the various ecosystem services provided by the beaches, as well as the importance of decreasing litter generation in daily life for environmental quality. They underlined the importance of adhering to the litter reduction hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recovery, and disposal) in order to lessen their daily litter footprint. The litter management strategies discussed include reduction, beach environment management, and changing litter behaviour through environmental education. Participants in the event took part in the LiFE pledge to safeguard the environment. As part of the event, placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach.

Event Date : 03nd  June, 2023

Under the mass mobilisation of Mission LiFE, NCSCM organised a clean-up event and public outreach in Parangipettai, a coastal town located in Cuddalore district along the southeast coast of India. The Parangipettai coast has extensive mangrove and salt marsh ecosystems that provide numerous ecological services, such as maintaining the ecological balance of coastal areas, dissipating wave energy, acting as a natural buffer against storms, and reducing the impact of waves on coastal areas. Further, these ecosystems play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, capturing and storing significant amounts of carbon, helping to mitigate climate change, providing habitat for many unique species of plants and animals, and improving water quality. Marine litter and climate change are interconnected, and both have significant impacts on marine ecosystems, including mangroves and salt marshes. Plastic waste, discarded fishing gear, and other forms of debris can accumulate in these ecosystems, affecting their health and functioning. Urban expansion or aquaculture can result in the loss of valuable coastal ecosystems, reducing their capacity to provide essential services and support biodiversity. To mitigate these impacts, it is crucial to raise awareness about the importance of mangrove and salt marsh ecosystems, promote responsible waste management practices, and support conservation efforts and sustainable management of these habitats. On the awareness front, NCSCM scientists sensitised about 50 participants from the fishing and local communities about the impact of plastics on these sensitive ecosystems. They also stressed the importance of community participation in ongoing MISHTI initiatives, conservation and restoration of mangroves, and organising frequent clean-up activities to decrease the lotic entry of plastic into rivers, which is crucial for the health of coastal and marine ecosystems. NCSCM scientists sensitised the fishing community at Parangipettai on the LiFE mission, the need to reduce plastics, biodiversity, responsible fishing and tourism, water conservation, and also practice sustainable lifestyles.

Posters, pamphlets, and the logo of LiFE were displayed during this campaign to make the fisherfolk understand the need for responsible fishing practices. The fisherfolk took part in the cleanup drive in the nearby mangrove area, where about 150 kg of plastic waste and discarded nets were collected and given to a recycling facility. The fishing community was taught about the circular economy to increase the value chain of plastics, which could help them earn income during the fishing ban period.

Event Date : 03nd  June, 2023

In an ongoing effort to promote the principles of Mission LiFE, NCSCM scientists conducted a cleanup and awareness programme at Auroville International Township, Puducherry. About 200 participants, comprising national and international tourists from the township, took part in the awareness programme. A cleanup drive was conducted within the township premises, and about 10 kg of plastic litter was collected, which was handed over to the Puducherry municipal corporation. NCSCM scientists made the participants aware of the LiFE mission, the need to reduce plastics, conserve water, energy, and biodiversity, and the need to live in harmony with nature. During the event, participants undertook the green pledge and the signature campaign in support of the LiFE mission for safeguarding the environment. As part of the event, placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed in the township to describe Mission to the participants.

Event Date : 02nd  June, 2023

Lakshadweep is a Union Territory of India located in the Arabian Sea. It is a group of 36 islands, of which only 10 are inhabited. The economy of Lakshadweep is primarily based on agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. Coconut cultivation is the main agricultural activity, and it is a major source of income for the local population. Fishing is another important economic activity, with the islands known for their rich marine resources. In recent years, tourism has gained significance, attracting visitors with its pristine beaches and coral reefs. The islands host a variety of marine species, including corals, fish, turtles, and dolphins, and are a significant breeding ground for various species of seabirds. Like many other coastal areas, Lakshadweep faces environmental challenges such as coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and the impact of climate change. These factors pose threats to the islands’ ecosystems, infrastructure, and the livelihoods of the local population. The coir industry, as a coconut tree-based industry, holds socio-economic significance on the island by providing employment, contributing to the local economy, preserving cultural heritage, and offering sustainable livelihood opportunities. It is a labour-intensive industry, and many local residents, especially women, are engaged in coir-related activities. Traditional coir-making techniques have been passed down through generations and are part of the local heritage. The coir industry plays a role in preserving cultural practices and connecting communities with their traditional roots.

On the awareness front, NCSCM scientists sensitised nearly 25 representatives of the coir industry workers and officials about the themes of Mission LiFE, energy and biodiversity conservation, sustainable food practises, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle. Scientists emphasised the necessity of reducing single-use plastics in sensitive island ecosystems using eco-friendly alternatives, water conservation, energy conservation, and biodiversity conservation. They underlined that by using coir products, we can reduce reliance on single-use plastics, promote sustainability, and contribute to environmental conservation. NCSCM staff highlighted the need to use coir geotextiles as an erosion control measure, since most of the island is under threat from coastal erosion. These products help stabilize soil, control sediment runoff, and promote vegetation growth. Scientists, in their discussion with coir workers, also highlighted the need for value added products from the coir fibre, such as coir pots for seedlings and plant nurseries. Further, they discussed the use of coir mulch in gardening and landscaping as an alternative to plastic mulch. As part of this event, the participants undertook the LiFE pledge and the signature campaign in support of the LiFE mission.

Event Date : 02nd  June, 2023

As part of the mass mobilisation Mission LiFE, NCSCM organised an outreach event at the Devi River mouth, to ensure people’s participation (Jan Bhagidari) in coastal and marine conservation. Devi Beach is one of the landscapes in Odisha’s Puri and Jagtsinghpur districts. It is a tributary of the Mahanadi River, lies within the Mahanadi Basin, and is known for its diverse biodiversity. Every year, thousands of visitors come to enjoy the calm surroundings, golden sandy beach, and lush greenery. Because of its various habitats and the ecological services they provide, the estuary is of great ecological value. Mangroves characterise the estuary area and serve an important role in coastal protection, reducing erosion, and providing a nursery for many marine animals. Mangroves, sand dunes, and estuarine environments provide niches for a variety of plants and animals. These beaches host “arribadas,” or mass nesting occasions, in which thousands of female Olive Ridley turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. These diversified ecosystems support a wide range of migratory birds, fish, crabs, and other marine animals. Local communities depend on these resources for sustenance and livelihoods, making their conservation vital.

NCSCM scientists sensitised around 75 tourists on the themes of Mission LiFE to encourage people to engage in small, everyday actions that can have a significant positive impact on their lives and their environment. The event provided tourists with a quick introduction to the ecologically sensitive coastal ecosystems and the need to conserve them by avoiding “trampling” and “littering”. They also stressed the importance of community participation in ongoing MISHTI initiatives, conservation and restoration of mangroves, and organising frequent clean-up activities to decrease the lotic entry of plastic into rivers, which is crucial for the health of coastal and marine ecosystems. Marine litter poses a great threat to the turtle population, as turtles often mistake plastic bags and other debris as part of their diet, which leads to serious health problems or even the death of these endangered species. The NCSCM scientists sensitised the fishing community about not operating trawler boats for fishing near the turtle nesting sites to prevent entangling and injuring (e.g., clipping off flippers) turtles and encouraged the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) to exclude turtles from getting captured and the retrieval of ghost nets. Turtle egg protection measures and the establishment of hatcheries have been suggested for the highly vulnerable turtle breeding sites, which are susceptible to disturbances, poaching, and predation. These initiatives focused on highlighting the ecological importance of turtles and their conservation status, not indulging in using bright flashlights during the breeding season. Raising awareness among beachgoers, tourists, shop owners, and beach vendors, beach operators on the various ecosystem services provided by the beaches and placing further emphasis on reducing litter generation in everyday life is the most significant step towards positive environmental gains. The scientists underlined the need to follow the litter minimization hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recovery, and disposal) for their daily litter footprint. Additionally, NCSCM scientists sensitised tourists, local vendors, and representatives of the fishing community on their important role in sustainable management of backwater tourism, wetland conservation, and the need to live in harmony with nature. As a part of the event, participants took LiFE’s pledge to stop littering and to live a green and sustainable life. Posters and pamphlets were distributed on the beach as part of this event, and employees emphasised the significance of Mission LIFE to the public.

Event Date : 01st  June, 2023

In an ongoing effort to promote the principles of Mission LiFE, Lifestyle for Environment, NCSCM scuba divers undertook a sea floor clean-up and awareness drive at the coral reefs of Agatti Island, one of the inhabited islands in the Lakshadweep Union Territory. The island, located in the Arabian Sea off the southwestern coast of India, is home to a diverse and vibrant coral reef ecosystem. Lakshadweep holds immense ecological and economic significance and is considered a biodiversity hotspot due to its rich marine life. The coral reefs of the islands support a wide range of organisms, including fish, mollusks, and other invertebrates, which attract tourists from around the world. The pristine beauty of these reefs, with their colourful corals and diverse marine life, makes them popular destinations for snorkelling, scuba diving, and other water-based recreational activities. Tourism associated with coral reefs contributes to the local economy and provides employment opportunities. Given their ecological, economic, and cultural significance, it is crucial to protect and conserve the coral reefs of Lakshadweep. Sustainable management practices, community engagement, and awareness campaigns can play a vital role in ensuring the long-term health and survival of these invaluable ecosystems. However, Lakshadweep Island has faced several environmental challenges in recent years, including marine litter.

On the sea floor clean-up drive, NCSCM partnered with Ammathi Scuba to conduct a sea floor clean-up and sensitization programme at the coral reefs of Agatti Island. Divers recovered around 5 kg of seafloor litter, including pet bottles, abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), ropes, packing materials, and food wrappers. This public awareness campaign aims to improve the health of the oceans through collective action and large-scale community participation (Janbhagidari). Participants in the event took part in the LiFE pledge to safeguard the environment. As part of the event, placards and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach and underwater to describe Mission LiFE to regional and national audiences.

Event Date : 01st  June, 2023

The NCSCM has launched yet another effort to promote Mission LiFE on Agatti Island, in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. As part of Lifestyle for the Environment, NCSCM scientists undertook a public outreach and beach clean-up drive at Agatti Island. This is one of the inhabited islands in the Lakshadweep archipelago, and it holds cultural, demographic, ecological, and economic significance. Agatti Island is a popular tourist destination in Lakshadweep due to its scenic beauty, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. The island offers opportunities for activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and boat tours. Fishing is an important economic activity on this island and throughout the Lakshadweep archipelago. The islanders have a long-standing tradition of fishing, and it plays a crucial role in their livelihoods. However, Lakshadweep Island has faced several environmental challenges in recent years, including marine pollution. Rising sea levels, coral bleaching, biodiversity loss, and extreme weather events are some of the specific environmental challenges associated with climate change in the islands.

Along with the NCSCM staff, the general public, including women, youth, and representatives from the fishing community, participated in the lagoon-side beach clean-up and awareness campaign. About 25 islanders took part in the clean-up drive, where about 20 kg of plastic waste, including discarded nets, were collected and handed over to a material recovery facility. NCSCM scientists sensitised around 60 islanders of various age groups on the services and functions provided by the several ecosystems (coral, seagrass, sandy beaches, and dune vegetation) and emphasised the need for conservation of these ecosystems. The public was made aware of the necessity of reducing plastics in such sensitive ecosystems by using eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics. The concept of a sustainable blue economy, including responsible tourism and fishing, waste segregation at the source and management (constructed wetlands), water (rainwater harvesting), energy (rooftop solar), biodiversity conservation, native coastal vegetation as a “bioshield” against these extreme events, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle, were also highlighted during the event. The scientists also emphasised the need to follow the litter minimization hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recovery, and disposal) for their daily litter footprint. The initiative provided a quick introduction to the islanders about the sensitivity of island ecosystems and the need to conserve the values of the sensitive ecosystems by avoiding “trampling” and “littering”. During the event, participants undertook the LiFE pledge in support of the LiFE mission and safeguarding the environment. Placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the island to describe Mission LiFE to the local community.

Event Date : 31st  May, 2023

Under the mass mobilisation of Mission LiFE, NCSCM organised an awareness campaign on sustainable food systems and healthy lifestyles among the traditional fishing community producing massmeen in Agatti Island, one of the inhabited islands in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. The island is situated approximately 459 km off the coast of Kerala and covers an area of about 3.84 sq. km. with a population of around 7,000. It is known as the gateway to Lakshadweep and serves as an important entry point for tourists. The concept of a sustainable blue economy (BE) is particularly relevant to small islands, given their close relationship with the ocean and dependence on marine resources. A sustainable BE focuses on balancing economic growth, social well-being, and environmental protection in the context of ocean-based activities. Fisheries and tourism are vital components of the small island economy. Sustainable fishing practices help maintain the livelihoods of fishing communities, preserve marine biodiversity, and support local food security. The Lakshadweep Islands have a rich fishing culture, and tuna is one of the most important fish species caught in the region. Massmeen is a traditional processed tuna product and plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of many fishermen and their families on the island. It is not only consumed locally but also exported to other regions in India.

Small islands often face unique challenges when it comes to sustaining food systems and adopting healthy lifestyles. These challenges include limited land resources, vulnerability to climate change, and reliance on imported food from the mainland. However, with careful planning and innovative approaches, small islands can develop sustainable food systems and promote healthy lifestyles. In this regard, NCSCM scientists sensitised nearly 30 representatives of the Sara self-help group fishing community and godown owners about the themes of Mission LiFE and their important role in practising responsible fishing, sustainable food systems, protecting vulnerable marine areas, healthy lifestyles, hygienic fish and food processing, energy and water conservation, and the need to live in harmony with nature. The motto of Mission LiFE is to encourage people to engage in small, everyday actions that can have a significant positive impact on their lives and their environment. Further, scientists highlighted islanders’ traditional knowledge in the preparation of massmeen, fish snacks, and tuna pickles, which add value to the catch by enabling the preservation and sale of dried fish and creating employment opportunities for fisherfolk and others involved in the processing and marketing of the product. Women’s self-help groups play a crucial role in small-scale household preparations of value-added products such as virgin coconut oil, jaggery, and vinegar, having a significant role in livelihood diversification opportunities, sustainable food systems, and healthy lifestyles in the island community. This is especially important in a context where the islands’ residents heavily rely on fish as a primary source of protein in their diet. Overall, massmeen production in Lakshadweep not only provides economic benefits and livelihood opportunities but also helps to preserve cultural traditions and ensure the availability of fish as a vital food source. Scientists emphasise the hygienic drying, fermenting, pickling, and canning of food that helps extend the shelf life of perishable items and provides a consistent food supply throughout the year. By implementing these strategies, small islands can develop resilient and sustainable food systems while promoting healthy lifestyles. Also, they underlined the need for a multi-stakeholder approach, community engagement, and long-term commitment to achieve positive change. NCSCM scientists taught the island community the need for branding their traditional massmeen production under the Geographical Indication (GI), which is a tag used to represent products that have traditional methods of production, specific know-how, and cultural significance associated with a particular region. GI tags can also contribute to tourism by attracting visitors interested in experiencing and purchasing authentic products. The scientists underlined the need to follow the litter minimization hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recovery, and disposal) for their daily litter footprint, changing litter behaviour through environmental education. The islanders were made aware of the necessity to reduce plastics in such sensitive ecosystems by using eco-friendly alternatives, waste segregation at the source, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle. During the event, participants undertook the LiFE pledge in support of the LiFE mission and safeguarding the environment. Placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the island to describe Mission LiFE to the local community.

Event Date : 30th  May, 2023

Under the mass mobilisation of Mission LiFE, NCSCM organised a clean-up event and awareness campaign on the Marine Drive promenade in Vembanad Lake, a wetland ecosystem in Kerala, on the southwest coast of India. The mission is to encourage people to engage in small, everyday actions that, when widely adopted, can drastically halt climate change. The mission is to establish an ecosystem through the “Pro-Planet People’ community that will support environmentally responsible behaviours and become self-sustaining. This wetland ecosystem complex spans an area of about 256 km2 and includes backwaters (over 50 percent of the total area of backwaters in the state), marshes, lagoons, mangrove forests, reclaimed land, and a network of natural and manmade canal systems. Because of its global importance and biodiversity values, it was included in the Ramsar site in November 2002. Six rivers and several tributaries discharge huge amounts of freshwater annually into this estuary, of which the Periyar River draining into the north estuary has a major influence on the ecology of the lake. This ecosystem supports a very productive agricultural system in Kuttanad, the “rice bowl of Kerala,” and is considered the lifeline of the region. The Vembanad wetland serves as a crucial economic resource for the locals dependent on fishing-related sectors as well as a popular travel destination. Over 1000 houseboats are the main tourist attraction, and over 100 transport boats traverse the lake’s waters to connect other cities and villages. In recent years, the lake’s environmental conditions have been in steady decline due to both endogenous and exogenous factors, and hence the wetland ecosystem and the dependent communities face various threats to their livelihoods.

To emphasise the importance of wetlands and their ecosystem services, NCSCM scientists conducted a clean-up event and awareness drive at Lake Vembanad. The various themes of the Mission LiFE campaign, such as conservation of lake ecology and biodiversity, reducing single-use plastics, using eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, sustainable and responsible fishing, including mesh size regulation of stake nets and Chinese lift nets, responsible tourism, and a healthy lifestyle, were explained by the scientists to over 150 tourists from all over the state. Additionally, NCSCM scientists sensitised tourists, local vendors, and representatives of the fishing community on their important role in sustainable management of backwater tourism, wetland conservation, de-weeding of creeks and canals as a measure of flood management, and the need to live in harmony with nature. During this event, a clean-up drive was conducted, where about 10 kg of plastic were collected from the parking area and handed over to the material recovery facility. The scientists also emphasised the necessity of community participation (Jan Bhagidari) in mangrove afforestation, restoration, and conservation through the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) scheme and clean-up events to minimise the lotic input of plastic into wetlands, which is vital for the health of coastal and marine ecosystems. Awareness was also raised among tourists, shop owners, beach vendors, and houseboat operators on the various ecosystem services provided by the lake, and helping them understand the need to protect the lake by avoiding ‘littering’ when visiting these fragile ecosystems and placing further emphasis on reducing litter generation in everyday life is the most significant step towards positive environmental gain, including climate change mitigation. The scientists underlined the need to follow the litter minimization hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recovery, and disposal) for their daily litter footprint, changing litter behaviour through environmental education. The tourists were made aware of the necessity to reduce plastics in such sensitive ecosystems by using eco-friendly alternatives, waste segregation at the source, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle. During the event, participants undertook the LiFE pledge and the signature campaign in support of the LiFE mission and safeguarding the environment. As part of the event, placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach to describe Mission LiFE to the local community.

Event Date : 29th  May, 2023

In an ongoing effort to promote the principles of Mission LiFE, Lifestyle for the Environment, NCSCM scientists undertook a sea floor clean-up and awareness drive at Keelakarai, a coastal town located in the Gulf of Mannar (GoM) of the state of Tamil Nadu. The GoM is situated on the southeast coast of India and has been recognised as a marine biosphere reserve, mainly due to its unique flora and fauna, which amount to 4,223 species of coastal and marine flora and fauna. It also has one of India’s most important marine national park. Additionally, this coast is well known for migrating whales, dolphins, endangered dugongs, and sea turtles. Coral reefs and seagrasses provide numerous ecosystem services (biodiversity support, supporting livelihoods, coastal protection, carbon sequestration, tourism and recreation, water quality maintenance, cultural and aesthetic value) that are vital for both the environment and human well-being. Protecting and conserving these ecosystems is crucial to ensuring the continued provision of these valuable ecosystem services. The GoM is known for its high pelagic fishery resources and commercial fishing grounds and supports the livelihood of about 200 fishing villages. However, GoM has faced several environmental challenges in recent years, including threats from marine litter.

On the clean-up drive, fishermen and boat owners have voluntarily joined the NCSCM team in an effort to clear marine litter from these ecologically sensitive ecosystems. About 10 local fishermen took part in the event, and the divers recovered 22 kg of seafloor litter, including pet bottles, abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), ropes, packing materials, and food wrappers. NCSCM scientists sensitised nearly 30 fishermen on the themes of Mission LiFE and the importance of practising responsible and environmentally friendly fishing practices and energy and water conservation. These initiatives, including the retrieval and recycling of any abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) were emphasised since a single ALDFG can remain in the sea for up to 600 years. Plastic contamination, particularly microplastics in the marine environment, as well as their bioaccumulation in the food chain, were highlighted by NCSCM experts. As part of the event, NCSCM staff highlighted to the fishing community the need for management strategies to control fishing-related litter (FRL), passive clean sea initiatives such as “fishing for litter” to encourage fishermen to bring back the FRL to shore-based reception facilities (RFs) and collecting end-of-life (EOL) fishing gear as a measure for the circular economy and to close the plastic loop in the marine environment. This public awareness campaign aims to improve the health of the oceans through collective action and large-scale community participation (Janbhagidari). After realising the ecological impact of marine litter, local fishing communities joined the NCSCM team for beach cleaning. This event trained the fisherfolk in a comprehensive manner about their environment, biodiversity, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. The litter management strategies discussed include reduction, beach environment management, and changing litter behaviour through environmental education. Participants in the event took part in the LiFE pledge and signature campaign to safeguard the environment. As part of the event, placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach to describe Mission LiFE to the local community.

Event Date : 28th  May, 2023

The NCSCM remains committed to promoting the themes of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) on the occasion of World Dugong Day. Dugong dugon is a vulnerable mammal species that lives in shallow waters with extensive seagrass beds. As a mega-herbivore, dugongs influence the structure of seagrass meadows in several ways. They influence the characteristics of seagrass meadows such as productivity, nutritional quality of the leaves, species assemblage, and biomass. These seagrasses provide a range of ecosystem services, including nursery grounds for fish and shellfish, acting as a coastal buffer against extreme events, and climate regulation. Dugongs thus have an indirect role in ecosystem functioning and the services of seagrass. However, due to various anthropogenic activities, dugong populations are in danger, and their area of occupancy is shrinking, particularly along the Indian coast. In India, the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, the Gulf of Kachchh, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to dugongs. The primary anthropogenic factors contributing to the dugong’s decline include habitat loss (seagrass deterioration) brought on by climate change, human settlements, and coastal development, as well as acoustic pollution, subsistence hunting, illicit, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, destructive fishing methods, and pollution.
On the occasion of World Dugong Day, NCSCM highlighted its past research initiatives related to dugong conservation, such as the mapping of ecologically sensitive areas (ESA) including seagrass, and the reporting of dugong feeding trails in the Gulf of Mannar. The NCSCM specifically educated visitors, boat owners, and the fishing community on responsible tourism and sustainable fishing to conserve and protect this vulnerable creature as well as marine ecosystems. These initiatives taught fishermen and tourists in a simple manner about the sensitivity of the marine habitat and the need to live in harmony with nature. Further, awareness regarding the necessity to reduce plastics in sensitive ecosystems by using eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, responsible tourism, waste segregation at the source, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle was provided.

Event Date : 28th  May, 2023

In an ongoing effort to promote the principles of Mission LiFE, NCSCM performed a beach clean-up event and awareness drive at Mahabalipuram, Chengalpattu district, located about 60 km from Chennai in the southeastern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Mahabalipuram is an important location in India for ancient monuments, including monolithic and cave temples, and is well known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments holds a unique place in Indian traditional architecture. These magnificent structures attest to the region’s high level of craftsmanship in the sixth century CE. According to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Mahabalipuram heritage site attracts over 10.76 lakh domestic visitors and over one lakh foreign visitors every year because of its scenic beauty, cultural, historical, and religious value. Tourist footfall, particularly on weekends, is a crucial socioeconomic activity in coastal communities, but when badly managed, it degrades marine-coastal ecosystem quality and increases litter pollution on beaches. Plastic pollution is one of the most serious environmental issues of our time, and beach tourism can help contribute to a solution. Marine litter negatively affects the environment, ecology, public health, climate, and economy. It is well known that the emergence of marine litter, especially plastic, has been a global problem for the past two decades and that its cost to society and the marine environment is enormous and irreversible. The citizen science approach plays an important role in addressing the issue of marine litter since it has proven to be a successful method of monitoring plastic litter, bringing benefits to researchers and coastal managers, and raising societal awareness about plastic pollution. The Honourable Prime Minister led the country by example during the historic plogging on Mamallapuram Beach. On this occasion, he urged the citizens to actively participate in coastal clean-up activities to remove litter from the country’s coastal and beach areas.

In the clean-up effort, tourists voluntarily participated in a beach clean-up with NCSCM scientists and collected around 40 kg of trash that included plastic bottles, food wrappers, plastic cutlery, footwear, bottle caps, plastic straws, plastic takeaway containers, and thermocol takeaway containers. During the event, more than 250 people, including beachgoers, beach vendors, shopkeepers, and tourists, were sensitized on the themes of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE). Further, scientists engaged with tourists and emphasized the need for avoiding single-use plastics through the use of eco-friendly alternatives, responsible tourism, segregation of waste at source, conserving water, energy, and biodiversity, and eliminating single-use plastics by adopting sustainable lifestyles. On this occasion, staff members of NCSCM distributed the jute bags and caps to beach vendors and tourists who actively participated in the event. Besides, NCSCM staff taught the tourist in a simple manner about the sensitivity of the marine habitat, the impact of climate change, and the need to live in harmony with nature. The event provided tourists with an overview of coastal ecosystems, helping them understand the importance of protecting them by avoiding ‘trampling’ and ‘littering’ when visiting these fragile ecosystems. The scientist raised awareness among beachgoers, tourists, shop owners, beach vendors, and beach operators on the various ecosystem services provided by the beaches, as well as emphasizing the importance of decreasing litter generation in daily life for environmental quality. They underlined the importance of adhering to the litter reduction hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recovery, and disposal) in order to lessen their daily litter footprint. The litter management strategies discussed include reduction, beach environment management, and changing litter behaviour through environmental education. Participants in the event took part in the LiFE pledge to safeguard the environment. As part of the event, placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach.

Event Date : 27th  May, 2023

The NCSCM has launched yet another effort to promote Mission LiFE themes in the fishing community of Old Town in the District of Cuddalore. Cuddalore District is located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is an important coastal district in the state. The district is one of the most productive fishing areas in Tamil Nadu, with a large fishing community. The district also has several tourist attractions for domestic tourists and people from all over India. The Cuddalore district has a coastal length of 58 kilometres and 49 fishing villages, with a total population of 47,000 marine fishermen. There are 23840 active fishermen among them, and almost 15000 fisherwomen are involved in fishing-related activities. There are 235 mechanised fishing boats and 2345 FRP boats, as well as 1906 non-motorised boats, operating in this district.

NCSCM scientists used this initiative to sensitise nearly 50 fishermen, dryfish godown owners, and ice plant owners about the themes of Mission LiFE and the importance of practising responsible and environmentally friendly fishing, hygienic fish handling and processing, and energy and water conservation. These initiatives, including the retrieval and recycling of any abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), were emphasised since a single ALDFG can remain in the sea for up to 600 years before decomposing. Plastic contamination, particularly microplastics in the marine environment, as well as their bioaccumulation in the food chain, were highlighted by NCSCM experts. The fishermen were sensitised to practise waste segregation at home and on board while fishing. As part of the event, NCSCM staff explained to the fishing community the need for management strategies to control fishing-related litter (FRL), clean sea initiatives such as “fishing for litter” to encourage fishermen to bring back the FRL to shore-based reception facilities (RFs) and collecting end-of-life (EOL) fishing gear towards extended producer responsibility as a measure for the circular economy and to close the plastic loop in the marine environment. Further, NCSCM scientists emphasised that such actions can enhance the value chain of FRL, which serves as a source of income during the fishing ban period. Additionally, it was suggested that during the fishing ban, the fishing community can utilize value-added fish products for additional income and livelihood diversification. This event taught the fishermen in a simple manner about the sensitivity of the marine habitat, climate change, and the need to live in harmony with nature. At the harbour, LiFE themes were displayed through posters and pamphlets promoting sustainable, environmentally friendly lifestyles. By actively engaging in the Life pledge and signature campaign, the fishing community expressed their support for the LiFE mission.

Event Date : 26th  May, 2023

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) conducted a public outreach on the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) mission at Pichavaram in Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu. The Pichavaram mangrove, a Ramsar site, is one of the largest mangroves in India, spanning over an area of 1478 ha and supporting numerous species of plants, mammals, fishes, crustaceans, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, and insects. This wetland, a part of the Cauvery delta, is home to several resident and migratory birds and also supports various threatened, endangered, and vulnerable species, including Olive Ridleys. The mangroves offer several ecosystem services, such as breeding and nursery grounds for aquatic biota, nutrient recycling, carbon sequestration, and protection of the coast from extreme weather events. Additionally, the Pichavaram mangrove forest offers abundant scope for recreational activities, attracting over 1 lakh tourists annually. Plastic debris, discarded fishing gear, and other types of litter may accumulate in mangrove forests, threatening their health and ecological function. Clearing mangroves for urban expansion or aquaculture can hinder key ecosystem services. Hence, it is important to raise knowledge about the significance of mangrove ecosystems, encourage responsible waste management practices, enforce legislation against unlawful operations, and ensure long-term management of mangrove habitats.

NCSCM scientists, along with the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), conducted a clean-up event and awareness drive at the Pichavaram tourist circuit. NCSCM scientists emphasised the LiFE mission and the significance of wetland as well as wildlife conservation to over 250 participants from all over India. The various themes of the LiFE campaign, such as conservation of water, energy, and biodiversity, reducing single-use plastics, sustainable food practises, and a healthy lifestyle, were displayed as exhibits in the form of placards, posters, pamphlets, and the logo of LiFE. Additionally, NCSCM scientists sensitised tourists, local vendors, staff of TTDC, and representatives of the fishing community on mangrove afforestation, ecotourism, and the need to live in harmony with nature. During this event, a clean-up drive was conducted, where about 10 kg of single-use plastics were collected from the parking area and handed over to the material recovery facility. The scientists also emphasised the necessity of community participation (Janbhagidari) in mangrove conservation, restoration, and clean-up events to minimise the lotic input of plastic into wetlands, which is vital for the health of coastal and marine ecosystems. The public was made aware of the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) scheme, which encourages afforestation and mangrove conservation. Further, the tourists were educated in a simple manner about the need to live in harmony with nature. As part of this event, the participants undertook the LiFE pledge and the signature campaign in support of the LiFE mission. Further, the tourists were made aware of the necessity to reduce plastics in such sensitive ecosystems by using eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, responsible tourism, waste segregation at the source, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle.

Event Date : 25th  May, 2023

The NCSCM remains committed to promoting the themes of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) on the occasion of International Plastic Free Day. NCSCM, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and the Department of Tourism, organised a coastal clean-up event and awareness drive on the themes of Mission LiFE at Kovalam, a Blue Flag eco-label beach in Chengalpattu District. This beach is located on the East Coast Road, about 40 km from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Its scenic beauty and pristine beaches, as well as backwater tourism in Muttukadu, attract a large number of domestic and international tourists. The beach is well known as a paradise for adventure water sports, including surfing, and is home to more than 25 species of migratory birds, making the area a birdwatcher’s delight. Kovalam Beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Beach Label in September 2021. The Blue Flag certification is a global recognition given to beaches that scientifically and comprehensively meet thirty-three stringent criteria related to water quality, safety, bathing facilities, zero waste management systems, renewable energy, and regular beach cleaning to remove marine litter, including microplastics. Kovalam Beach already has infrastructure facilities for pollution abatement, including solid and liquid waste. Beaches provide a variety of ecosystem services, many of which are crucial for human life. The major ecosystem services provided include sediment storage, wave dissipation, water purification, associated buffering against extreme events, nesting sites for turtles and shorebirds, foraging grounds for migratory birds, recreational opportunities, and functional links between terrestrial and marine environments in the coastal zone. It is well known that the generation of marine litter, especially plastic, is a global problem, and the cost to society and the marine environment is enormous and irreversible. It also has adverse impacts other than environmental, such as the damage it causes to the regional economy via degradation of beach aesthetics and negatively impacting beachgoer perception, a reduction in fisheries productivity, and a threat to navigational safety.
The clean-up effort collected around 9 kg of primarily organic waste. In terms of raising awareness, NCSCM scientists sensitised around 150 beachgoers and tourists, as well as 20 Blue Flag beach workers, on the mission LiFE principles. During the event, they emphasised the significance of avoiding single-use plastics through the use of eco-friendly alternatives, responsible tourism, segregation of waste at source, conserving water, energy, and biodiversity, and eliminating single-use plastics by adopting sustainable lifestyles. The event highlighted the importance of visitors being fully aware of their environment and habitat and living in harmony with nature. The event gave tourists an overview of coastal ecosystems and dune vegetation, helping them understand the need to protect dunes by avoiding ‘trampling’ and ‘littering’ when visiting these fragile ecosystems. Raising awareness among beachgoers, tourists, shop owners, beach vendors, and beach operators on the various ecosystem services provided by the beaches and placing further emphasis on reducing litter generation in everyday life is the most significant step towards positive environmental gains. The scientists underlined the need to follow the litter minimization hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle, recovery, and disposal) for their daily litter footprint. Litter management strategies include reduction, mitigation, management of the beach environment, and changing litter behaviour through environmental education. Participants in the awareness programme took part in the LiFE pledge and signature campaign to safeguard the environment. As part of the event, placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach.

Event Date : 24th  May, 2023

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) has taken yet another initiative towards promoting the themes of Mission LiFE at the Thoothukudi fishing harbour in the Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve. Thoothukudi Fishing Harbour is one of the largest and busiest fishing harbours in Tamil Nadu. The harbour can host more than 250 mechanised trawlers. Through this campaign, NCSCM scientists sensitised about 60 fishermen and net menders about the themes of Mission LiFE and the significance of practising responsible and sustainable fishing, hygienic fish handling and processing, and raising awareness about energy and water conservation. These initiatives, including the retrieval and recycling of any abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), were emphasised since a single ALDFG can remain in the sea for up to 600 years before decomposing. NCSCM scientists highlighted the threats of plastic pollution, particularly microplastics in the marine environment, as well as their bioaccumulation in the food chain. The fishermen were sensitised to practice waste segregation at home and on board while fishing. As part of the sensitization, NCSCM staff explained to the fishing community the need for management strategies to control fishing-related litter (FRL), encouraging fishermen to bring back the FRL to shore-based material recovery facilities (MRFs) and reception facilities (RFs). Collection of end-of-life (EOL) fishing gear, towards extended producer responsibility (EPR), at fishing harbours helps to close the plastic loop (circular economy) in the marine environment. This “fishing for litter” practice is in line with the “Clean India, Clean Seas,” and “Swachch Bharat Mission” initiatives. Further, NCSCM scientists emphasised that such actions can enhance the value chain of FRL, which serves as a source of income during the fishing ban period. Additionally, it was suggested that during the fishing ban, the fishing community can utilise fishery by-products for additional income and livelihood diversification. This event taught the fishermen in a simple manner about the sensitivity of the marine habitat, climate change, and the need to live in harmony with nature. At the harbour, LiFE themes were displayed through posters and pamphlets promoting sustainable, environmentally friendly lifestyles. By actively engaging in the Life pledge and signature campaign, the fishing community expressed their support for the LiFE mission.

Event Date : 23rd  May, 2023

As part of the Lifestyles for Environment (LiFE) mass mobilisation movement, NCSCM organised an awareness programme for students of Anna University, Chennai. The event sensitised the student community to their environment and emphasised the need to live in harmony with nature in a holistic and understandable way. The event was attended by approximately 150 students and offered a variety of learning experiences on various topics such as reducing single-use plastics, using eco-friendly alternatives, and protecting the oceans. Lifestyles for the Environment (LiFE) awareness is a great initiative to educate students about the importance of sustainable living and its positive impact on the environment. NCSCM scientists provided students with a basic understanding of environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, deforestation, and resource depletion. The event highlighted the impact of these issues on ecosystems, wildlife, and human well-being. In addition, it encouraged students to practice responsible consumption through reduction, reuse, and recycling. The students were encouraged to use eco-friendly products and alternatives to disposable products. The importance of energy-efficient practices, conservation of water, and reducing the carbon footprint was explained to the students. NCSCM scientists sensitised students on the importance of good waste management by encouraging recycling of paper, plastic, glass, and metal, composting organic waste, and educating them on the harmful effects of litter and the importance of keeping the environment clean. Students were encouraged to use eco-friendly modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, and public transport whenever possible. The environmental benefits of reducing reliance on private vehicles and the impact of transportation emissions on air quality and climate change were discussed. As the students were primarily from engineering backgrounds, they were enlightened to develop eco-friendly materials through the use of technological interventions. Finally, NCSCM staff underlined the need for sustainable practices in one’s own life for the future generation, which benefit not only the environment but also their own health and well-being. As part of the event, posters and brochures about LiFE mission were displayed around campus, and the students undertook a LiFE pledge and signature campaign.

Event Date : 23rd  May, 2023

On World Turtle Day, NCSCM partnered with the members of the sea turtle hatchery at Besant Nagar under the Tamil Nadu Forest Department on mass mobilisation of the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) movement with a spotlight to spread public awareness and educate coastal fishermen and the local community on the need for sea turtle conservation. More than 300 species of turtles exist on the planet. Several of them are endangered due to pollution, habitat destruction, and predation. These shelled reptilian species are found in diverse environments all around the world and play vital roles in their respective ecosystems. Turtles mainly reside in the sea for a span of about 80 years, whereas tortoises are mainly land dwellers and can survive up to 300 years. World Turtle Day serves as a reminder of the numerous threats that turtles encounter, including habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, predation of turtle hatchlings, and illegal wildlife trade. On World Turtle Day, various events and activities were organised by NCSCM to educate people about the critical need for sea turtle conservation and their nesting sites. World Turtle Day is an opportunity to learn about different species of turtles, their ecological significance, and the steps to be taken to ensure their survival. It emphasises the importance of preserving their habitats, abating pollution (mostly plastic), and combating illegal trade to safeguard the future of these ancient and remarkable creatures. Marine litter poses a great threat to the turtle population, as turtles often mistake plastic bags and other debris as part of their diet in coastal waters, which leads to serious health problems or even death. Beach clean-up initiatives near the area of turtle nesting sites can help protect them from harmful pollution, including plastic resembling turtle feed. The NCSCM scientists sensitised the fishing community about not operating trawler boats for fishing near the turtle nesting sites to prevent entangling and injuring (e.g., clipping off flippers) turtles in the trawling nets and encouraged the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) to exclude turtles from getting captured and the retrieval of ghost nets.
Tamil Nadu has a broad coastline along the Bay of Bengal, providing crucial nesting grounds for several species of sea turtles. Some of the sea turtle conservation efforts undertaken in Tamil Nadu, such as the establishment of the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, regular monitoring of nesting beaches, etc., have contributed to the conservation of turtles and their habitats. Poaching is a significant threat to turtle populations, as their eggs, meat, and shells have commercial value. To combat this, anti-poaching efforts have been strengthened by deploying trained personnel. Turtle egg protection measures and the establishment of hatcheries have been suggested for the highly vulnerable turtle breeding sites, which are susceptible to disturbances, poaching, and predation. NCSCM conducted public awareness campaigns and educational programmes to engage local communities, fishermen, students, and tourists. These initiatives focused on highlighting the ecological importance of turtles, their conservation status, not indulging in using bright flashlights during the breeding season. In this campaign, the importance and need for sea turtle conservation were highlighted, for the prevention of baby turtles falling prey to birds and stray dogs. Participants took the LiFE pledge to safeguard the environment, avoid single-use plastics, practise responsible tourism, and conserve marine biodiversity. Placards, posters, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach as part of this event. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission LiFE to participants for coastal and marine biodiversity conservation.

Event Date : 23rd  May, 2023

As part of the mass mobilisation movement for the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) mission, Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) in coastal and marine conservation, the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) organised a beach clean-up and awareness event at Kanyakumari Triveni Sangamam. Kanyakumari is the southernmost point of the Indian mainland and is located at the confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal. Due to the presence of well-known sites like the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, the Thiruvalluvar Statue, the Kanyakumari Beach, and sunrises and sunsets, it is a preferred tourist destination renowned for its natural beauty, cultural, historical, and religious importance. This area is a year-round tourist spot due to the prevalence of ecotourism and pilgrimage tourism, drawing more than 20 lakh national and international visitors. More than 300 tourists were educated about the need to use eco-alternative materials and conserve energy, water, and biodiversity by NCSCM scientists during this event. The tourists were sensitised to responsible and sustainable tourism. The local community, beachgoers, street vendors, and food outlet owners were made aware of the negative impacts of litter on the quality and aesthetic value of beaches and other coastal ecosystems. NCSCM scientists also highlighted the importance of the “Clean India, Clean Seas Initiative”. Tourists were also made aware of the delicate nature of coastal ecology and asked for their support to maintain the coast’s cleanliness and health. Tourists voluntarily participated in a beach cleanliness drive with NCSCM scientists and collected around 50 kg of trash that included plastic bottles, food wrappers, plastic cutlery, glass bottles, cigarette butts, plastic bottle caps, plastic grocery bags, plastic straws, plastic takeaway containers, plastic lids, and thermocol takeaway containers. The waste was segregated into different categories and handed over to the Kanyakumari town panchayat. Near the rocky shore, posters and signs about the LiFE Mission were displayed. A signature campaign and a LiFE Pledge were held to encourage visitors to follow more environmentally friendly lifestyles (Pro-Planet People) and to live in harmony with nature.

Event Date : 22nd  May, 2023

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) promoted the themes of Mission LiFE at the Thengaithittu fishing harbour, Puducherry. NCSCM scientists joined hands with the Department of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare Association, Government of Pudhucherry, as well as All Social Organisations and Volunteers Federation, an NGO in Puducherry, to conduct a clean-up and awareness drive to sensitise the fishing community. Thengaithittu is the largest fishing harbour in Puducherry and can accommodate approximately 300 mechanised fishing boats, handle nearly 200 tonnes of fish per day, and provide livelihood support to almost 1000 families. About 50 participants from the fishing community took part in the clean-up drive, where about 80kg of plastic waste and discarded nets were collected and handed over to a nearby material recovery facility (MRF). As part of the sensitization, NCSCM staff explained to the local fishing community about responsible and sustainable fishing, hygienic fish handling and processing, including fish drying, and biodiversity conservation. Further, they emphasised the need for management strategies to control fishing-related litter (FRL). During the event, emphasis was given to clean sea initiatives such as “fishing for litter” to encourage fishermen to bring abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) to shore-based reception facilities as a measure for the circular economy and to close the plastic loop in the marine environment. This can enhance the value chain of FRL and provide a source of income during the fishing ban. This event taught the fishermen in a simple manner about the sensitivity of the marine habitat, climate change, and the need to live in harmony with nature. As a part of this event, participants took part in a LiFE pledge and signature campaign to reduce littering and plastic pollution. NCSCM scientists displayed posters, pamphlets, and the logo of the LiFE mission to sensitise the fishing community on the need to reduce plastics, conserve biodiversity, conserve water, and practise sustainable lifestyles.

Event Date : 21st  May, 2023

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) has taken yet another initiative towards promoting the themes of Mission LiFE at the Manora Beach Pattukkottai taluk of Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. Manora Beach is known for its ecological, cultural, and religious significance. The main attraction on the beach is the Manora Fort, situated on the coast. Due to the co-existence of a children’s park, recreational amenities, and a lighthouse on and around the beach, the site draws thousands of tourists every year. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department designated this coast as a site for the “International Dugong Conservation Centre” due to the support it provides for Dugongs (sea cows). This coast also has extensive mangrove ecosystems that provide numerous ecological services, such as maintaining the ecological balance of coastal areas by filtering pollutants, stabilising shorelines, and providing a habitat for many unique species of plants and animals. Marine litter and climate change are interconnected, and both have significant impacts on marine ecosystems, including mangroves. Plastic waste, discarded fishing gear, and other forms of debris can accumulate in mangrove forests, affecting their health and ecosystem functioning. Further marine litter can cause physical damage to young mangrove patches. Clearing mangroves for urban expansion or aquaculture can result in the loss of valuable coastal ecosystems, reducing their capacity to provide essential services and support biodiversity. To mitigate these impacts, it is crucial to raise awareness about the importance of mangrove ecosystems, promote responsible waste management practices, enforce regulations against illegal activities, and support conservation efforts and sustainable management of mangrove habitats.

In this regard, NCSCM organised a clean-up and awareness drive at the Manora Beach. In this drive, over 90 beachgoers participated, and nearly 60kg of plastic litter, consisting of 14kg of discarded fishing nets and other litter including single-use plastics and food wrappers, were collected. The collected trash was properly disposed of through a local material recovery facility. Additionally, NCSCM scientists sensitised boat owners, local vendors, and representatives from the fishing community on mangrove afforestation, marine biodiversity conservation, and the need to live in harmony with nature. They also stressed the importance of community participation (Janbhagidari) in ongoing MISHTI initiatives, conservation and restoration of mangroves, and organising frequent clean-up activities to decrease the lotic entry of plastic into rivers, which is crucial for the health of coastal and marine ecosystems. Participants took the LiFE pledge to safeguard the environment, avoid single-use plastics, practise responsible tourism, and conserve mangroves and biodiversity. Posters and placards on LiFE were displayed on the beach to provide awareness on the themes of Mission LIFE to the public.

Event Date : 20th May, 2023

As part of the mass mobilisation movement for mission life, NCSCM organised a beach clean-up and awareness event at Kushi Beach, Tamil Nadu. Kushi beach is a well-known tourist destination, located in the Rameswaram tourist circuit, attracting over 5000 visitors on weekends. This Beach offers scenic views of the Bay of Bengal and is known for the white sand. The sandy shores provide a wide range of ecosystem services, many of which are essential for supporting human uses. The most important ecosystem services include sediment storage, wave dissipation, and associated buffering against extreme events; breakdown of organic materials; nutrient mineralization and recycling; water storage in dune aquifers and groundwater discharge; maintenance of biodiversity and genetic resources; nesting sites for turtles and shorebirds, prey resources for birds; scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities; and are functional links between terrestrial and marine environments in the coastal zone. Threats to beaches arise from a range of stressors that span a spectrum of impact scales, from localised effects (e.g. trampling) to a truly global issue of sea-level rise. These pressures act at multiple temporal and spatial scales, translating into ecological impacts that are manifested across several dimensions in time and space. Nearly 30 participants of various age groups collected nearly 40 kg of plastic waste at the Kushi beach. Plastics, food wrappers, bottles, used clothing, and bags. collected plastic waste and were handed over to a nearby material recovery facility.

Along with the NCSCM staff, the general public, and street vendors, representatives from the fisherfolk community participated in the beach clean-up drive. NCSCM scientists sensitised around 150 visitors of various age groups of beachgoers, beach vendors, local communities, and representatives of the fishermen community on the need for conservation of sandy beaches and ecosystems and the ecosystem services they provide. Further, the necessity of reducing plastics in such sensitive ecosystems by using eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, responsible tourism, waste segregation at the source, water and biodiversity conservation, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle. The initiative provided beachgoers with a quick introduction to the beaches and the need to conserve the values of these sensitive ecosystems, by avoiding “trampling” and “littering” while visiting these sensitive ecosystems. As a part of the event, participants took LiFE’s pledge to stop littering and to live a green and sustainable life. Posters and pamphlets were distributed on the beach as part of this event, and employees emphasised the significance of Mission LIFE to the public.

Event Date : 19th May, 2023

NCSCM Scuba Divers organised an underwater clean-up along the Munaikadu, a coastal village located in the Palk Bay region of the state of Tamil Nadu, as part of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) movement. Palk Bay is a shallow body of water that lies between the southeastern coast of India and the northern coast of Sri Lanka. It is a part of the larger Palk Strait, which connects the Bay of Bengal in the northeast with the Gulf of Mannar in the southwest. Palk Bay is ecologically significant and supports a diverse range of marine life, including various species of fish, crustaceans, and sea turtles. The region is also known for its coral reefs and seagrass beds, which provide important habitats for marine organisms. The village is predominantly inhabited by fishermen who rely on the rich marine resources of Palk Bay for their livelihood. However, Palk Bay faces several environmental challenges in recent years, including marine litter.

On the clean-up drive, NCSCM scientists went scuba diving in coral reefs and seagrass meadows to clear the plastic debris in the coral reefs. Along with the NCSCM team, fishermen, boat owners, and seaweed cultivators, including women, joined in the effort to remove marine debris from the ecologically sensitive seagrass and coral reef ecosystems. About 25 local fishermen participated in this event, and the Scuba divers recovered 15kg of ghost nets, the rest being single-use plastics and packaging. This public outreach campaign was focused on improving ocean health through collective action by the local community. Seagrass beds are important marine habitats that provide shelter, food, and breeding grounds for numerous species. They also help stabilise the seafloor, improve water quality, and sequester carbon dioxide. Scuba divers involved in this seagrass and coral reef cleaning, removed marine debris, including plastic bags, fishing nets, and other litter, which can smother seagrass and corals, leading to their decline. As part of the awareness drive, NCSCM staff sensitised the fishing community on the need to live environmentally responsible lives and to conserve marine life and the marine environment. They agreed to practice ecologically friendly farming and responsible fishing after having gained an understanding of the Mission LiFE themes through this awareness event. This event trained the fisherfolk in a comprehensive manner about their environment, biodiversity, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. Placards and pamphlets were displayed on the beach as part of this event. NCSCM staff described Mission LiFE to the local fishing community.

Event Date : 18th May, 2023

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) has promoted Mission LiFE themes at Arichal Munai and Dhanushkodi beaches on Rameswaram Island in the Gulf of Mannar. Dhanushkodi Beach lies at the tip of Rameswaram Island, which is a popular tourist destination with historical, religious, and ecological significance. The Arichamunai Bird Sanctuary in Dhanushkodi attracts several local and migratory birds for feeding and breeding because of the numerous water reservoirs. As part of “Jan Bhagidari” on the themes of Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), to sensitise the general public, including local communities and tourists, on the significance of clean beaches and pollution-free seas, NCSCM organised a cleanup drive in Arichal Munai on Rameshwaram Island. Tourists were sensitised on the themes of Mission LIFE and eco-friendly lifestyles. Visitors joined NCSCM staff in a cleanup effort in the “sand dunes” near Dhanushkodi Beach. These ecosystems provide several important ecosystem services such a prevention of coastal erosion control through their unique sand binding capacity, recreation, bird watching, biodiversity, water purification and conservation. Litter such as plastics, thermocol, bottles, discarded fishing net ropes, rubber material trapped on the sand dune vegetation, were collected and handed over to a nearby material recovery facility. On the awareness front, NCSCM scientists sensitised around 250 visitors of various age groups from distant parts of the country, including West Bengal, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu on the themes of Mission LiFE. As part of mission LiFE, scientists emphasised the necessity of reducing single-use plastics in such sensitive ecosystems by using eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, responsible tourism, waste segregation at the source, water and biodiversity conservation, and adopting a sustainable lifestyle. The programme provided tourists with a quick introduction to the coastal sand dune environment, the need to conserve dunes, avoiding “trampling” and “littering” while visiting the dunes. As a part of the event, participants took LiFE’s pledge (in both Hindi and English) to stop littering and to live a green and sustainable life. Posters and pamphlets were distributed on the beach as part of this event, and employees emphasised the significance of Mission LIFE to the public.

Event Date : 17th May, 2023

In order to address the themes of Mission LiFE, NCSCM, in collaboration with Puducherry Municipality, social organisations, and the Volunteers Federation (NGO), held a clean-up and awareness programme at the heritage site, Botanical Garden, Puducherry, which was established in 1826. The garden hosts a variety of rare, endangered, vulnerable, threatened, and endemic species of the tropical dry evergreen forests and native species of the Coromandel coasts. On the LiFE theme, NCSCM scientists organised a nature walk around the botanical garden and collected 15 kg of plastic waste, mostly single-use plastics, and 100kg of organic debris, mostly plant litter and was disposed in the compost pit located in the Botanical Garden. On the awareness front, scientists trained around 300 visitors and garden officials on the importance of traditional knowledge, conserving and preserving historical flora and heritage trees, urban greening, optimising energy and water usage, and adopting a sustainable aspect of lifestyle as a part of mission LiFE. This event was carried out in order to raise awareness on the reduction of single-use plastics, the use of Eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, responsible tourism, waste segregation at source, and biodiversity conservation. The event holistically sensitised the students and the visitors to the Botanical Garden in a comprehensive manner about their environment, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. As a part of this event, participants took part in a LiFE pledge against littering and the menace of plastic pollution. Placards and pamphlets were displayed on the beach as part of this event. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission LiFE to the public

Event Date : 16th May, 2023

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) has taken yet another initiative towards promoting the themes of Mission LiFE at the Royapuram fishing harbour. This fishing harbour is one of the major and busiest fishing hubs in Tamil Nadu and is located at Kasimedu in the Royapuram area of North Chennai. The harbour is also equipped with shipbuilding yards, chiefly for building fishing boats, catamarans, and fishing net mending yards. The harbour can accommodate approximately 600 mechanised fishing boats, handle nearly 200 tonnes of fish per day, and provide livelihood support to almost 1000 families.

As part of the LiFE event, beach cleaning at the N4 beach was carried out with the active participation of about 125 members of the fisherfolk community, 50 college students, and 25 Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) staff members. NCSCM staff and Greater Chennai Corporation members collected nearly 160kg of plastic waste in the fishing hamlet. This waste consisted of 70kg of discarded fishing nets, the rest being single-use plastics and packaging. The collected waste was handed over to the GCC authorities to improve the value chain.

As part of the sensitization, NCSCM staff explained to the local fishing community about responsible and sustainable fishing, hygienic fish handling and processing including fish drying and raising awareness about energy and water conservation. Further, they emphasised the need for management strategies to control fishing-related litter. During the event, emphasis was given to clean sea initiatives such as “fishing for litter” to encourage fishermen to bring abundant lost and discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) to shore-based reception facilities as a measure for the circular economy and to close the plastic loop in the marine environment. This event trained the fisherfolk in a simple manner about the sensitivity of the marine habitat, climate change and the need to live in harmony with nature. As a part of this event, participants took part in a LiFE pledge against littering and the reduction of plastic pollution. Placards and pamphlets were displayed on the beach as part of this event. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission LiFE to the local fishing community.

Event Date : 15th May, 2023

The aim of Mission LiFE was highlighted to the salt pan workers of Marakkanam, a coastal taluk in the Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu. This ancient port town of Marakkanam, is located at about 120 km from Chennai, lines the highway with expansive panoramic fields of salt pans. The Marakkanam salt pans are spread over an area of 4,000 acres and is one of the largest producers of salt in Tamil Nadu. These salt pans support the livelihood of around 1,000 workers every day during peak season, starting January each year. As a part of this awareness event, NCSCM staff sensitized around 25 salt pan owners and 75 workers on the themes of Mission LiFE and emphasized the importance of water and energy conservation, hygenic salt production and processing, growing halophytes, biodiversity conservation, and banning single-use plastics. The participants have also expressed their views on climate change impacts, which are currently affecting their climate-dependent job of salt extraction through unpredictable precipitation during the salt extraction process. The salt pan owners and workers took a green pledge and signature campaign on water conservation and environmental protection after realizing the significance of an environmentally friendly lifestyle. This event trained the salt pan workers in a simple manner about their environment, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. Placards and pamphlets were displayed on the salt pans as part of this event.

Event Date : 14th May, 2023

The Mission LiFE was taken to the Karbi Tribes and government school at Deoshotal and the Raba Tribes and the youth at Boragaon village, adjacent to Deepor Beel Lake, Assam. In addition to agriculture, these communities rely heavily on fishing at the lake. This area is rich in biodiversity, with elephants, deer, and wild pythons. During this LiFE event, NCSCM scientists sensitised local communities about the ecosystem and the goods and services offered by Deepor Beel and discussed traditional knowledge on wetland conservation. About 70 students from the Deoshotal public school took part in a nature walk around the lake, which provided a different learning experience on various topics such as the reduction of single-use plastics, the use of eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, wildlife conservation, and the preservation of streams and springs. The event holistically sensitised the students and the local village community in an easily comprehendible manner about their environment, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. The students then took part in a LiFE pledge to eliminate trash and reduce plastic pollution. As part of the event, posters and pamphlets were displayed. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission LiFE to the local community.

Event Date : 14th May, 2023

In the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) mass mobilisation movement, NCSCM partnered with the Assam State Wetland Authority, NGO Mid-Way Journey, and NGO Living Lakes to conduct a mass cleaning and sensitization programme at Deepor Beel, a freshwater lake adjacent to the Brahmaputra River. The lake was declared a Ramsar wetland for protection, conservation, and wise use in 2002 because of its huge biological and ecological importance. The lake is regarded as one of India’s most important migratory bird habitats, attracting the greatest number of waterfowl. During the mass cleanliness drive, the Divisional Forest Officer, Smt. Jayashree Naiding, and the scientists of NCSCM sensitised students and the local community about environmental issues and participated in activities such as (i) lake bank cleaning, (ii) taking the LiFE Pledge, and (iii) distribution of saplings. Such awareness initiatives are needed to reduce plastic pollution in Deepor Beel and promote responsible tourism among the visitors. A group of 30 girls and boys of classes 8 to 10 from the Pochoria Higher Secondary School in Tagline, Assam, collected almost 250kg of waste, including plastics. Several officers from the Assam State Forest Department also took part in the mass cleanup drive. The importance of biodiversity and wetland conservation in the fragile Deepor Beel wetland was highlighted during the event. Placards and leaflets were displayed at the wetland as NCSCM scientists addressed the significance of Mission LiFE to the students and public.

Event Date : 13th May, 2023

NCSCM organized a cleanup and awareness programme in the fishing village of Kovalam as part of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) movement. Kovalam Village is located in the Kanchipuram district, on the northeast coast of Tamil Nadu, adjacent to the Bay of Bengal, and has a population of 8,124. The village has many tourist activities related to fishing and water sports. The cleaning campaign aims to improve ocean health through collective action by local communities. About 60 participants of various ages collected nearly 300 kg of plastic waste in the village. This waste consisted of 120 kg of discarded fishing nets, the rest being single-use plastics and packaging. The collected waste was transported to a plastic recycling plant to improve the value chain. During the event, NCSCM staff sensitized the fishing community on the impact of beach littering, hygienic fish processing, responsible and sustainable fishing, reduction of single-use plastics, use of eco-alternatives, waste segregation, and water and marine conservation. At this event, the fishermen were educated in a simple way about their environment, their habitat, and their need to live in harmony with nature. As part of this event, participants took part in LiFE pledge. Placards and pamphlets were displayed on the village as part of this event. NCSCM staff described Mission LiFE to the local fishing community.

Event Date : 12th May, 2023

A public awareness session was organised by NCSCM and the Chennai Corporation as part of the widespread public mobilisation for Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE). It was held in Pattinapakkam Fishing Village, Chennai. Around 700 families live in the Pattinapakkam fishing hamlet. As a part of this event, scientists from NCSCM and Chennai Corporation members retrieved 250 kg of fishing net, sensitised the fishing community on the impact of beach littering, and raised awareness on water conservation. Further, they emphasised the need for responsible and sustainable fishing. About 50 local fisherfolk participated in this event, which provided different learning experiences on various topics such as the reduction of single-use plastic, the use of eco-alternative materials, and marine conservation. This event trained the fisherfolk in a simple manner about their environment, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. As a part of this event, participants took part in a LiFE pledge. Placards and pamphlets were displayed on the beach as part of this event. NCSCM staff described Mission LiFE to the local fishing community.

Event Date : 11th May, 2023

The NCSCM and the Tamil Nadu Forest Department organised an awareness programme at Guindy National Park, Chennai, on the use of eco-alternatives, waste segregation, and energy and water conservation as part of the mass mobilisation of public participation in the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE). The National Park is a great habitat for varied species of fauna, with the tropical dry evergreen forests spanning over an area of 2.70 km2. The National Park Authority implemented the Deposit Refund System (DRS) for plastic bottles carried by visitors as a measure of responsible tourism. As a part of this event, park visitors, including school and college students, teachers, and several families, took part in a green pledge and signature campaign against littering. Placards, pamphlets, and LiFE mascots were displayed in the park as a part of this event. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission LiFE to over 350 visitors. In this campaign, the focus is given to educating the public on responsible tourism, wildlife conservation, urban greening, and the need for an eco-friendly lifestyle to live in harmony with nature.

Event Date : 10th May, 2023

As part of the mass mobilisation of public participation in the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE), NCSCM and the Forest Department, Mara Autonomous District Council, Mizoram, organised a nature walk along the Palak Lake. The Palak Wetland Reserve is located about 360 km from Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram, and comprises an area of 18.5 km2. The Palak Lake wetland conservation area is rich in biodiversity and falls under the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. As a part of this event, scientists from NCSCM and Forest Department members explained to the local community about the wetland ecosystem and the goods and services it provides. Further, they emphasised the need for biodiversity and wetland conservation. About 60 local tribes participated in this event, which provided different learning experiences on various topics such as the reduction of single-use plastic, the use of eco-alternative materials, wildlife conservation, the preservation of streams and springs, and responsible tourism. This event trained the public in a simple manner about their environment, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. As a part of this event, participants took part in a green pledge against littering and the reduction of plastic pollution. Placards and pamphlets were displayed on the wetland as part of this event. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission LiFE to the tribal communities.

Event Date : 9th May, 2023

As part of the mass mobilisation of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) movement, NCSCM organised an awareness programme on the ban of single-use plastics, the use of ecoalternatives, responsible tourism, and coastal and marine conservation at the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology, located 40 km south of the city of Chennai. It is the largest breeding centre for crocodiles in the country. It has successfully bred 5000 crocodiles and alligators, including the three endangered Indian crocodile species (the mugger crocodile, saltwater crocodile, and gharial), along with several threatened species of turtles. The mission of the park is to promote the conservation of reptiles and amphibians and their habitats through education, scientific research, and captive breeding. As a part of this event, park visitors took part in a green pledge and signature campaign against littering and the need to live in harmony with nature. Placards, pamphlets, and LiFE mascots were displayed in the park as part of this event. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission Life to over 150 visitors. In this campaign, the focus is on educating the public on responsible tourism, wildlife conservation, and the need for an eco-friendly lifestyle to live in harmony with nature.

Event Date : 8th May, 2023

Urban river bank cleaning and discarded net retrieval

NCSCM organised a cleanup along the Adyar River bank, an urban river in Chennai city, as part of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) movement. This public outreach campaign is about improving ocean health through collective action by the local community. About 65 participants from various age groups collected about 250 kg of plastic waste from the Adyar River mouth. This waste comprises 130 kg of discarded nets, and the remaining were single-use plastics and packaging materials. The collected waste was taken to the plastic recycling facility to improve the value chain.

As a part of this event, NCSCM scientists raised awareness of the importance of Mission LiFE among the fishing community by displaying placards, pamphlets, and LiFE mascots, while the participants also took part in a green pledge against littering and the need to live in harmony with nature. Besides, scientists raised awareness about the need for sustainable fishing practices to reduce and mitigate the impact of discarded fishing nets in estuarine and marine environments. Further, they emphasised the need to organise regular cleanup efforts to reduce the lotic entry of plastic into rivers, which is essential for maintaining the health of the river ecosystem, fish habitat, preventing flooding, and ensuring the safety of residents living near the river. Through such community action, we can create a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

Event Date : 7th May, 2023

NCSCM organized a cleanup along the Adyar River bank, an urban river in Chennai city, as part of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) movement. This public outreach campaign is about improving ocean health through collective action by the local community. About 65 participants from various age groups collected about 250 kg of plastic waste from the Adyar River mouth. This waste comprises 130 kg of discarded nets, and the remaining were single-use plastics and packaging materials. The collected waste was taken to the plastic recycling facility to improve the value chain.

Event Date : 6th May, 2023

In continuation of the public outreach on the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) movement, NCSCM and Suzhal Arivom, an environmental organisation, organised a nature walk in Pallikaranai wetland, a marsh, an urban wetland, and a Ramsar site in Chennai city. As a part of this event, scientists from NCSCM and Suzhal Arivom members explained about the wetland ecosystem and the ecosystem services it provides. Further, they emphasised the need for conservation of the wetland. About 100 students from various schools in Chennai and 40 joggers participated in this event, which provided different learning experiences for the participants. Further, students and joggers took part in nature walks, which offer an opportunity to observe and learn about a diverse range of flora and fauna. This event trained children and the public in a simple manner about their environment, habitat, and the need to live in harmony with nature. As a part of this event, students and joggers took part in a green pledge against littering and the reduction of plastic pollution. Placards, pamphlets, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the wetland as part of this event. NCSCM scientists explained the importance of Mission LiFE to participants.

Event Date : 5th May, 2023

As part of the mass mobilisation of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) movement, NCSCM organised an awareness programme on the ban of single-use plastics and the use of ecoalternatives at Besant Nagar Beach, Chennai. As a part of this event, beachgoers took part in a green pledge and signature campaign against littering and the need to live in harmony with nature. Placards, pamphlets, and LiFE mascots were displayed on the beach as part of this event. Scientists explained the importance of Mission Life to over 200 beachgoers. The importance and need for coastal conservation and the reduction of plastic pollution were highlighted. In this campaign, the focus is on educating the public on the need for an eco-friendly lifestyle to reduce their carbon footprint.