Let's Integrate For Environment

Inauguration of Eco-club at SPS

Date of event: 21st November, 2009

As mentioned in an earlier post, LIFE has decided to assist the teachers at Siddaganga Public School, Nagarbhavi in organising the eco-club activities for the school. On the 21st of November the eco-club was formally inaugurated for 40 interested children from 6th to 9th class.

After the initial ceremony, we conducted a one-hour interactive session with the children about issues with plastic waste disposal, including recycling, health effects and ideas to reduce. This was done as a follow up session after the school-visit to K K Plastics. Swapna spoke about the options for recycling of plastics and Adi spoke about the health effects that arise from stage of production to stage of disposal of plastics.

The movie "Story of Stuff" was also shown to the audience.

Few innovations made from "waste" plastic were also showcased to light the spark of creative use of waste in children. This included a used oil-can made into a container with an indoor plant.

The response from the teachers and students was encouraging. A suggestion was that "Story of Stuff" be dubbed into Indian accent so that the children can follow it better and also to make the session more activity based. Another suggestion was to reduce the dependency on Powerpoint presentations. These have been well taken.

We have given some work to the students of the club for the next month, including conducting waste segregation and audit at homes and school and suggestions for creative use of waste plastic.

The next session will be in January 2010, where a field trip may be organised for the children.

Participating members:

Harsha, Swapna, Adithya, Shreeshail and Rajeshwari

Stall at RVCE

Date of event: 15th November 2009

The occasion was the cultural fest at RV College of Engineering. This year's theme was environmental awareness and we were invited to organise a stall at the college premises.

What was on display:

There were no items for sale, only for display. Posters were arranged along the sidewalls of the stall (These were borrowed from Community Health Cell). Indoor potted plants made from recycled products were also displayed. Many books and magazines on environmental themes were also arranged. Reusable bags made of cloth were also hung along with the posters.

Objective:

To interact with interested students and network. Also to showcase lifestyle change options and recommended reading material for the youth.

The experience:

It was the first time we set up an awareness stall at a college fest. With the young men and women busy taking part in and watching the events and also each other (lol), the response was meagre. Also, we realised that if attention has to be drawn, something exciting has to be arranged. Maybe next time we will include some games/videos/music and get them involved with puzzles. But it was a good learning experience on the whole.

Kaggaladu visit: Phase 2 visit 2

Date: November 14^th 2009

Members of the core team visited Kaggaladu village on the 14^th of Nov to celebrate Childrens Day with the students of the Government School there. We had previously informed the teachers of the school and also the local panchayat leaders that we would like to come and meet them. We were able to board the 6 30 am bus from Bangalore and made it to the school by 9 30 am. After arriving there, we first had a meeting with the teachers, during which we introduced ourselves and made clear our intentions from the visit. The teachers were responsive and showed their interest too in educational activities and in protecting the migratory birds. A monthly visit to Kaggaladu from our side is what we told we'll do. In conversation, we were told by the teachers that water was no longer a problem here because the local lakes were being recharged with water from Hemavathi river. But we have our doubts if that is a viable long term solution. We would be discussing this with panchayati members when we have the chance. Another issue that was highlighted was the lack of sanitation in the village and they have suggested health education classes for children and parents. The teachers expressed a lot of expectation from us, and we assured them that we will do as much as we can to help the school.

The children were assembled onto the grounds of the school and we had a nice ice-breaker session with them. Songs were sung, lots of photos were taken and sweets were distributed. We collected the wrappers from the children to highlight the importance of waste handling.

An activity has been assigned to the kids of 5^th to 7^th classes. Five KG cardboards, poster paints and crayons have been given to them and we’ve told them to make posters which depict the village, the agriculture, the birds, the water and their school. The posters are to be made ready in a month’s time when we visit next. We’ve promised prizes for the best one. This was given with two main intentions. One is for the kids to appreciate better the village and school, and secondly, to give them opportunities to bring out their creativity in the form of art.

After the school visit we had a brief chat with one of the panchayati leaders. We realized that if anything has to come out of our efforts, continued visits and pressure will be required from our side.

After that we went bird watching. We had received prior information that some storks had already arrived. At a nearby lake we spotted 4 kinds of water birds and probably one painted stork.

Our next visit is planned towards the end of december and another one in Republic Day. By then the birds are expected to have arrived. We hope bird watchers and volunteers would join us next time.

Members who visited: Harsha, Swapna and Adithya

Field trip with children from S P School to K K Plastics

Date: 24th of October, 2009

Place of visit: K K Plastics, off Kanakpura Road, Bangalore

The Principal and staff of Siddaganga Public School had shown great interest in engaging the children of the school in environmental education activities. LIFE has volunteered to help arrange activities on a long term basis at the school and also to initiate an eco-club for students there.

In this regard, we organised a field trip to K K Plastics for students of 8th, 9th and 10th standard. There were a total of 120 kids. K K plastics has become famous over the last few years for the innovative use of excess waste plastic in the development of better quality roads. "Plastic waste roads" can be seen in many places in Bangalore such as Double Road and Cubbon Road. These are innovations by Mr. Rasool Khan of K K Plastics. These roads have the benefit of being three times more durable than traditional tar roads. Also, there is now an alternative way to handle excess plastic waste.

During the one-hour visit, the children were explained the procedure. First the plastic wastes are sorted and cleaned by a machine, then the wastes are dried and sent to the shredding machine which cuts the plastic into small pieces (powder like). The powder is packed and stored in bags till the date for use arrives.

The plan of action now is to discuss with the children the issues of waste, its connection with lifestyle and the possible inadequacy of these type of solutions in the long run.

School postings at:

http://spsbangalore.com/events_files\14th%20G.C.htm

Members who attended: Swapna, Harsha and Adithya

World climate day 2009

On the occassion of International Day of Climate Action, Indian Association of Energy Management Professionals (IAEMP) in association with LIFE-Bengaluru invite you to an event that could change your thoughts and provide you new ideas on Energy Management in future. Be there!! Details of the event given below:

Theme – To promote Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Energy Efficiency
Date: 24 October 2009, Saturday, 9.30 am
Venue: Surana College, South-end Circle, Jayanagar, Bangalore
Occasion: International Day of Climate Action

The Five Activities

1. Creating a Green World (Poster Drawing Competition)
Suggested Themes for Poster making
• Reduce, reuse and recycle ( Refuse)
• Everything is energy, nothing is waste
• Energy efficiency begins at home ( Charity begins at Home)
• Local action for Global warming ( Think Global Act Local)
• Green Innovation is the path to a better future
• Save a drop, save a watt- avoid planet getting hot
Prizes worth -
- Rs. 7000/-
- Rs. 5000/-
- Rs. 3000/-

2. Green Idea Contest
Send an Idea relevant on Clean Technology or Green Business within 250 words.
One First Prize Rs. 1500/-
Two Second Prizes Rs. 1000/-
Three Third Prize Rs. 500/-

3. Panel Discussion on Green Business by experts

4. Introduction of HEMP, Home Energy Management Program - a presentation
Charity begins at home...

5. Stalls/Demonstrations/Presentations

Contact: Levine Lawrence - 9845535573
Vinod Durge - +91 98452 92557

Visit to Kaggaladu

For those unaware about the village Kaggaladu, and the special interest it bears with migratory birds like the Painted Stork and the Grey Heron, kindly read this from an earlier post titled "Kaggaladu - Habitat conservation". (http://letsintegrateforenvironment.blogspot.com/2009/07/kaggaladu-habitat-conservation.html)

It had been almost a year or more since members of LIFE visited this village. This visit is something we'd been planning for a few months. On the 20th of September, 2009, we made our visit, which we hope would be the first of a long and sustained effort to restore the sanctuary and the lakes of the village.

Our first concern was to check if the five trees on which the birds were nesting last year were still around. Thankfully, they were safe and sound. We spent an hour there talking to the local panchayat members (local governance) about the lakes, the bird population over the year and the efforts of the forest department and other interested groups. It appears that the forest department has been responsive and that the bird population this year was very good.

We didnt sight any of the above mentioned birds though, as this is not the season. We feel that working off-season with the villagers will help build rapport, as this is very essential for sustained activity.

Some watershed development activity has taken place, but the lake still is not able to get recharged fully, so this is another area we will be working on slowly with the concerned department.

When we visit next time, the agenda will be more focussed and it will be a fact finding mission. When we get hard data from the villagers and the government bodies, we'll be in a better position to plan out the events. Also, we plan to involve the local children in the efforts. There are plans to help initiate a library and art facility at the school.

The villagers were cordial and showed their concern for the birds, but it was clear that they do face problems with water availability and poverty. Our efforts will be directed toward holistic sustainable development of the village for the people and the winged visitors.

Team members who went: Swapna, Harsha, Adithya and Shreeshail

Date of visit: 20.09.2009

Kindly find few pics at:

http://picasaweb.google.co.in/lh/sredir?uname=lets.integrate.for.environment&target=ALBUM&id=5385038313775229873&authkey=Gv1sRgCI7FsrS-htT_7gE&feat=email

Environmental groups in Bangalore

There are several groups doing great work in Bangalore in the fields of Environmental protection and improvement, conservation, education, animal rights, sustainable development and waste management. Many of these groups are genuinely concerned about the state of our environment and work tirelessly. In our experience we have had the opportunity to meet many of these groups to get to know more about their work. Given below are the names of these groups, with brief description and contact details. We recommend that you consider these NGOs if you are thinking of donating or volunteering with.

Environment Support Group (ESG):

They’ve been working for over a decade in Bangalore. Areas of focus have been research, advocacy and education. They have a bunch of dedicated and energetic members who are really inspiring. More details at www.esgindia.org

Compassion Unlimited Plus Action (CUPA):

They too have a long history of working in Bangalore, their services include ambulance and veterinary clinic. They also have a home/shelter for stray animals. More details at http://www.cupabangalore.org/

Arghyam

This group is concentrating on improving the water situation in Bangalore, by supporting rain water harvesting, and they are also involved in training and awareness raising. They have simple kits for water testing which even lay people can use. More details at http://www.arghyam.org/

Saahas

This group works on waste segregation, management and recycling. They give trainings and also help in planning waste management strategies for organizations. Issues like e-waste and plastics are also taken up. More details at http://www.saahas.org/

Trees for Free

This group mainly concentrates on one activity, planting trees in and around Bangalore. Most planting programs are during the weekend. Money donated is used for planting trees. More details at www.treesforfree.org

Greenpeace

This group has a global presence. The advantage of supporting a group like this is that they do great work on international issues and, do quality research and also have the might to take on corporate atrocities. Their presence in Bangalore is not very active but since the environment is one for the entire world, they are another group one can volunteer with or donate to.

Citizen matters

Citizen matters is a Bangalore focused and citizen-oriented news publication. They publish in-depth news, analysis, features, opinions, and information/event listings, covering city public affairs, community and culture in our city. Citizen Matters is published by Oorvani Media, an independent local media firm founded by Bangaloreans Subramaniam Vincent and Meera K. They encourage citizens, professionals and journalists to get involved in city affairs, reporting, collaborating on, analysing, and proposing ideas and solutions. More details at http://bangalore.citizenmatters.in/

Ride a cycle foundation (RAC-F)

If you’re concerned about issues of transport, cycling and sustainable urban development, you should check out the initiatives of RACF. Do visit their website http://rideacycle.org/?page_id=6. Also join the cycling groups at critical mass every month (www.criticalmassbangalore.blogspot.com ) .

Socare Ind

Socare Ind as part of its social activity, manages a home for children born to convincts serving life-term in the Karnataka state's jail system. Socare Ind takes comprehensive care of the children by giving them boarding, lodging, health, education, training etc. free of cost. All the children are admitted to a good school nearby for their education. http://www.socare.org

Nele

Nele is the home for street children, rag pickers and destitute children. http://www.nele.org.in/

RK foundation

Old cloth/books / food donation can be given to this group. The foundation tries to bridge the gap between people and non governmental organizations involved in services relating to health care and related services. As of now the activities are restricted to Karnataka. Gradually the foundation aims to become part of the local resources mobilization network with various service minded institutions like hospitals, vocational training institutions and others to promote efficient & effective charity. http://www.rkfoundation.org/

Pet animals

Stray dog adoption, animal birth control (ABC), awareness etc. http://www.soactindia.com/

Pet’s adoption

http://letslivetogether.wordpress.com/

Stall at "Namma Jathre"

The annual event Namma Jathre was organised at Freedom Park in Bangalore on the 29th and 30th of August. LIFE too was invited to keep a stall with the intention of awareness raising and displaying eco-friendly products. Despite the short notice for preparation (one day infact!), we were able to arrange a good display and were able to draw the attention of many of the visitors.

What was on display -

1) Containers for indoor plants made from used/waste glass bottles, bulbs and CDs. These were made with great innovativeness by contacts of LIFE and were well appreciated by one and all.

2) Terrariums - indoor plants kept in a air-tight container which need no taking care of i.e, self-sustaining replicating earth. These were sold for Rs. 200 and the money was forwarded to the trust fund.

3) Re-usable cotton bags - these were for sale for a price of Rs. 25. The money collected was forwarded to the trust fund. Mainly to discourage using of plastic bags to bring milk/groceries/veg.

4) Terracotta painted pots for indoor plants - display only.

5) Free saplings were distributed - singapore cherry, pongamia, tachoma, bignonia, basavana pada and others.

6) Display of recommended reading material - I brought some excellent reading material on the theme of environment which i had at home just to enourage others to read these books. These included - Magazines like Down to Earth and books like - Silent Spring, Gaia hypothesis, The Origin of Species, Hind Swaraj, From Crisis to Cure and Health for All Now.

A book was also kept for interested individuals to register with us to keep them updated on LIFE's events.

Event was concluded with music by Belaku trust for the economically poor children with a feast!

Many of the visitors enquired about LIFE objectives and activities; and these were well appreciated and encouraged. We hope you will be able to join us in our next event!

This was recoreded in TOI on 31st Aug' 09, page 5 column 6 or

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/NEWS/City/Bangalore/NGOs-tell-world-what-they-do/articleshow/4952221.cms

Kindly find few pics at the following link.

http://picasaweb.google.co.in/lh/sredir?uname=lets.integrate.for.environment&target=ALBUM&id=5376892777145027937&authkey=Gv1sRgCNfYyfCUmZu9bw&invite=CIDu_64E&feat=email

Participants from LIFE

Harsha, Aditya and Swapna

Maruthi Primary School event

Date of event: 15th August, 2009

Maruthi School is a private school headed by Mr Lakshmi kanth, who has managed to run the school without government aid. He enrolls children who would otherwise end up as child labourers or uneducated citizens. Most of the children come from economically backward families and cannot afford schooling.

A small celebration was organised by the LIFE team on August 15 at Maruthi Primary school at 8.30 am for the students.

1. The celebration started with hoisting of the national flag followed by national anthem.
2. Mr. Lakshmikanth gave a inspirational speech to the students
3. Students were invited to perform their talents. The program gave the poor children who live around our community a chance to perform on the stage.
4.Some fun games were conducted by Swapna, Shrishail and Harsha.
5.Light refreshments were served by Harsha to the staff and children.
6.Discussion was held with Mr.Lakshmilanth to better understand the needs of the school.

Address: Maruti Primary School, gubbala,Kankapura Main Road

How to reach there :
From Banashankari :
Take Kanakapura Road -> Near Khoday’s factory(Konanakunte cross) take a right towards ISRO Layout(Vasanthapura) -> To your left you willfind a board pointint to City Engineering College. Take that road. After some 300mts, to your left is the school.
From Padmanabhanagar :
Take Uttarahalli road -> Turn Left at Uttarahalli circle ->Subrahmanyapura -> Vasanthapura Further-> To your right is the city engineering college board, take that road -> After some 300mts, to
your left is the school.

Let's Libertae underpriviledged from illeteracy and poverty.

Two years ago, along with Dhwani, LIFE had participated at the I-day event at the same school. The student number has increased from 35 to 48. The school provides them with education till 7th grade and organizes lunch through Akshya Paatre (Not a free lunch!!!)

What you can do:

There is a scheme where a child from the school can be adopted at an estimated cost of 4000 INR, which would provide for the educational and lunch requirements of the child for a year. Part payments may also be worked out. Anyone can apply to adopt a child. For more details about this, please send an email to

lets.integrate.for.environment@gmail.com

Kindly find few pictures at http://picasaweb.google.co.in/lh/sredir?uname=lets.integrate.for.environment&target=ALBUM&id=5370582233462624097&authkey=Gv1sRgCPaPlt7fkJDcxAE&feat=email

Thanks, Harsha

Wildlife survey event at Thali, Krishnagiri

Date of event - August 2nd, 2009

The event was organized by the members of the Kenneth Anderson Foundation and the Asian Nature Conservation Foundation. It is a part of an ongoing one year project which hopes to do the complete biodiversity survey in the forests of South west of Hosur with the intention of declaring it as a sanctuary. It was an opportunity for those inexperienced in the skills of wildlife survey.

Devarabetta is a hill surrounded by forests. These forests adjoins the Bannerghatta National Park. Due to various human activities, the forests in this region have become fragmented and this has led to various problems, especially for the elephants of the region. The corridors of movement of the pachyderms have been blocked on all sides and this has led to human animal conflict in the region. The result has been the death of several elephants and people.

The activity we participated in is called a ‘transect’ or rapid survey of mammals and reptiles, though technically it was not, because we walked along preformed paths. Since no records had been made earlier on the biodiversity in these forests, this was probably the first effort.

We participated in the survey activity on Sunday, the 2nd of august. It was started at 7 am and went on till almost 1:30 pm. Dr. Geetha Nayak of ANCF was the leader of the group and guided us on the walk. Three forest guards also accompanied us. The forests were mostly scrub forests with short trees, though riparian habitats were also seen near streams.

Evidence of species is recorded as –

Direct evidence: spotting the organism itself
Indirect evidence: the footprint, the shed skin, the feces, sounds etc.

Once identified, photographs are taken and also the location of evidence is recorded using GPS device. A survey map is also carried along to help us identify our location and elevation. Binoculars are helpful to observe the creatures from far.

We came across many species of birds, butterflies, lizards and snakes. It is a difficult job to identify the species and requires a lot of experience. All in all, the experience was a very good one and has given us many insights on conservation related work, survey methods and about trekking in forest areas. We surely look forward to more experiences in the future.
Participants:- Adithya, Harsha and Satvik, Prajesh nair and family, Ahmed.

Further events will be published from KANS.

Photos-http://picasaweb.google.com/surveyphotos/Thalli?feat=directlink