Ente Maram
In an era where environmental rituals are often performed out of obligation rather than genuine commitment, the question, “Can the next generation live here?” resonates deeply. It challenges us to reflect on our actions and their long-term impact on the planet. Recognizing the need for meaningful change, the Centre for Biodiversity Conservation and Rural Development (CBCRD) launched the ‘Ente Maram (My Tree)’ project on World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5th.
The ‘Ente Maram’ project was conceived with the goal of instilling a lasting sense of environmental stewardship in the younger generation. Unlike traditional initiatives that may fade after a single day, this project empowers students to take personal responsibility for the environment by caring for a tree from a very young age. The project was introduced in collaboration with BMC Nanniyode Grama Panchayat, with its inauguration taking place on June 5, 2023, at Nanniyode LPS.
The initiative involved providing students with tree saplings so that they could plant and nurture their trees indefinitely. To support this lifelong commitment, each student was given a handbook to record the growth and progress of their tree. This book serves as a personal diary of their journey with the tree, ensuring that they remain actively engaged in its care. Should any questions or challenges arise regarding the maintenance of their tree, CBCRD members are always available to offer guidance and assistance.
The community’s response to the ‘Ente Maram’ project was overwhelmingly positive. Free saplings were distributed to students from Gov LPS Nanniyode, Gov UPS Peringammala, and Pacha DBLPS. With strong support from both school and panchayat authorities, the project has already seen remarkable success. Since its launch in 2023, more than 200 trees have taken root and are thriving, a testament to the dedication of the students involved.
The project aims to instill a deep sense of guardianship in students by connecting them with nature in a meaningful way. By nurturing a tree from a young age, students develop a lifelong bond with the environment, learning the importance of sustainability and the role they play in preserving it for future generations.
Through the ‘Ente Maram’ project, CBCRD and BMC Nanniyode Grama Panchayat have set a powerful example of how community-driven initiatives can create lasting change. By fostering a sense of responsibility and care for the environment, this project not only contributes to reforestation efforts but also nurtures the next generation of environmental stewards.
The plant species distributed to students
Long-Term Impacts
01
Long-Term Environmental Stewardship
Instills a deep, lifelong commitment to environmental care in students, leading to sustained reforestation efforts.
03
Carbon Sequestration
Supports long-term carbon sequestration, contributing to efforts to mitigate climate change.
05
Educational Impact
Enhances environmental education, making it more experiential and impactful by involving students in hands-on conservation work.
02
Biodiversity Enhancement
Contributes to the increase of local biodiversity through the planting of a variety of tree species, many of which have ecological and medicinal importance.
04
Community Engagement
Strengthens community ties through collective participation in environmental projects, fostering a shared sense of responsibility
06
Sustainable Development
Encourages sustainable development practices at a grassroots level, setting a precedent for other communities to follow.
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