World Environment Day 2025: ONGC ATI Goa Leads with Action Against Plastic Pollution
Introduction and Pledge Ceremony
ONGC’s Advanced Training Institute (ATI), Goa, celebrated World Environment Day 2025 with an engaging event focused on “Ending Plastic Pollution.” The ceremony began with the Environment Pledge, given in Hindi by Arun Fotedar, Chief of Institute and Head Training, and in English by J.V.H Prasad, GM (Production). This set a serious tone for the day, highlighting sustainability and personal responsibility.
Felicitation of guest speaker Dr Pronoy Baidya by officiating Chief of institute Arun Fotedar
Keynote Speech: “Are We Really Intelligent?”
The program was led by Arun Fotedar. In his address, he stressed that the environment is not a far-off issue—it starts with each person. He referred to plastic as a “silent bomb” and called for shared awareness and action.
A main highlight was the keynote presentation “Are We Really Intelligent?” by Dr. Pronoy Baidya, Head of Research Division at Arannya Environment Research Organisation (AERO), Goa. He discussed how today’s human activity, despite technological progress, often lacks ecological wisdom. Using visuals and insights, Dr. Baidya compared traditional farming systems with modern plastic-heavy culture. He emphasized that environmental degradation is a societal problem needing empathy and logical responses.
Workshops and Hands-on Activities
Two engaging workshops took place:
– Plastic Waste Audit and Segregation Challenge: Led by Ms. Harshada Gauns, with help from Mr. Jalmesh Karapurkar and Mr. Shivcharan (AERO). Participants learned to identify and sort different types of plastic.
– Tote Bag Painting Workshop: This encouraged creative expression while promoting alternatives to single-use plastics.
Harshada Gauns from Arannya Environment Research Organisation (AERO), conducting a plastic segregation workshop
Several interactive competitions occurred:
– Spot quizzes
– Slogan writing contests (in Hindi, English, and Konkani)
– Poster-making competitions
Winners were recognized for their thoughtful contributions during the event.
The event highlighted ONGC ATI’s ongoing CSR partnership with AERO, which includes:
– Environmental education for over 500 students and 60 teachers
– Awareness campaigns at 50 shops, 15 bus stands, and 30 households
– Engagement with 300 tourists along South Goa beaches
– Instagram campaigns reaching 459,000 viewers
– Development of a butterfly garden at the ATI campus using native species
Tree Plantation and Concluding Message
A tree plantation took place, led by Arun Fotedar and Dr. Baidya, symbolizing ATI’s commitment to environmental conservation. The event closed with a message from Dr. Baidya: “The environment doesn’t need saving, we do.” This day served as a reminder that environmental action starts with informed choices, empathy for nature, and sustainable habits.
Organising Team and Acknowledgments
The event was organized by the Environment Department of ATI Goa, led by Sr. Chemist Nikita Chiripal. They received support from Infocom, HR, Civil departments, and enthusiastic ATI employees.
