In a remarkable display of environmental commitment, students from Rajagiri Business School have taken significant strides in coastal conservation by planting over 4,000 Cost Cottonwood stumps along the sand wall at Puthankadapuram, Nayarambalam. This initiative, led by Grassroute, is part of a broader Coastal Conservation Initiative aimed at restoring and protecting the delicate coastal ecosystems of the region.
The journey began on August 31, when students from various colleges and schools came together to plant more than 1,000 Cost Cottonwood stumps, marking the first phase of this vital project. The second phase was inaugurated on September 12 by Mrs. C.C. Siji, the Puthankadapuram ward member of Nayarambalam Gram Panchayat, who planted the first stump to symbolize the continuation of this important work. During her address, Mrs. Siji highlighted the pressing need to extend such sustainable initiatives to various areas of Vypin Island, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation.
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As I speak today, I want to emphasize the pressing need to extend such sustainable initiatives to various areas of Vypin Island. We must involve our community in environmental conservation efforts, as together we can make a significant impact.
C.C. Siji
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Ward Member, Puthenkadappuram, Nayarambalam
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Grassroute President Mr Sreeraj K.T. Rajagiri Outreach Cordinator Mr. Renjith K. Udayabhanu, local resident and social worker Mr Dishi Kochuthara were also present in the ceremony. Renowned environmentalist and Grassroute activist Mr I.B. Manoj spoke passionately to the students about the critical role of mangroves and associated plants in protecting coastal areas. He explained that the sand wall is not just a dune; it is a biodiverse habitat that requires nurturing. Mr Manoj stressed the need to enhance biodiversity to create a more robust and secure biological wall, which can provide better protection than traditional sea walls.
This ambitious project has been meticulously planned by Grassroute and is overseen by Rajagiri Outreach, with support from Ocean Network Express, a leading logistics company. The initiative has also garnered cooperation from Nayarambalam Gram Panchayat, various National Service Scheme (N.S.S.) units, and the Encon Club. A dedicated group of 35 MBA students from Rajagiri Business School actively participated in the second phase of the project, showcasing the power of youth engagement in environmental efforts.
The success of this initiative is a testament to the impact of Grassroute’s activities. Thanks to similar efforts initiated three years ago, many Cost Cottonwood trees now stand tall in the Puthankadapuram area, contributing to the local ecosystem. With the target of planting 5,000 Cost Cottonwood stumps in two phases already achieved, Grassroute President Mr Sreeraj announced plans for a third phase, which will involve the planting of an additional 1,500 mangrove saplings in the Puthankadapuram area of Nayarambalam panchayat.
As we reflect on this inspiring initiative, it is clear that collective action and community involvement are essential for the preservation of our coastal ecosystems. The students of Rajagiri Business School, along with their partners, are setting a powerful example of how dedication and teamwork can lead to meaningful environmental change. Let us all take inspiration from their efforts and consider how we can contribute to the conservation of our natural resources.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Coastal Conservation Initiative and other environmental efforts in our community!
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