An awareness programme focusing on biodiversity conservation, recycling and sustainable living was organised in Guwahati on Monday, June 1, as part of World Environment Week 2026 celebrations.
The event, jointly organised by Soroptimist International Guwahati (SIG) and Faculty Senior Secondary School (FSSS), brought together students, educators and environmental advocates to discuss the role of communities and young people in addressing environmental challenges.
Conservationist and wildlife biologist Dr. Purnima Devi Barman attended the programme as the chief guest. During her interaction with students, she spoke about community-led conservation efforts and shared her experiences working to protect the Great Adjutant Stork, locally known as the Hargila. She also answered questions from students on biodiversity conservation, environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
She highlighted the success of the Great Adjutant Stork conservation movement, which helped increase the population of the endangered bird from around 400 in 2007 to nearly 2,000 at present. She said the species is now listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
"Nature is my teacher. Conservation is my mission. People are my strength," Dr. Barman told participants, urging young people to play an active role in safeguarding the environment.
During the programme, Dr. Barman announced a new initiative called 'Cloth Bank', which aims to collect old garments and repurpose them through traditional weaving practices.
A key feature of the event was the release of notebooks produced through a recycling initiative undertaken by SIG in collaboration with FSSS and St. Edmund's Past Pupils Association's SEPPA CARES. The project collects unused pages from partially used exercise books, binds them into new notebooks and distributes them among students in rural areas.
The initiative has been running for a second consecutive year and seeks to promote responsible consumption while supporting educational needs.
The programme included cultural performances, an environmental pledge by students and discussions on sustainable lifestyles. Participants also highlighted the importance of linking environmental awareness with practical community-based initiatives.
Dr. Mitali Goswami, President of Soroptimist International Guwahati, delivered the welcome address, while Vice-President Anannya Sharma proposed the vote of thanks. Academic Director Sano Mainao Bhuyan and Principal Nabanita Borpujari of FSSS were among those present.
The event concluded with students pledging to adopt environmentally responsible practices and contribute to conservation efforts in their communities.