By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 12: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has urged the people of Meghalaya to join hands in keeping the environment clean and healthy by picking up their own trash and refraining from littering natural spaces.
“Plastics are not only an eyesore to our environment but are a threat to its beautiful biodiversity. Next time we go for a trek, a walk, or a picnic to such beautiful locations, let us remember to not litter and let’s #PickOurOwnTrash!” the chief minister took to his social media handle and said.
During a recent trek to the Rhododendron Riot Trail in Upper Shillong, the chief minister had appealed to both tourists and locals to respect nature.
“I urge the tourists visiting the state and as well as the citizens coming to be a part of this beautiful track please, don’t litter. Don’t leave your garbage behind,” he said.
“It is a simple thing but it spoils the entire forest area. Please carry the trash with you and maybe also pick up some the trash you see that others, who are not as responsible as you, have left behind. Take it and throw it in the designated location,” he added.
As Forest and Environment Minister, Sangma has consistently promoted eco-tourism and the conservation of natural landscapes.
Under him, Meghalaya has implemented several initiatives to address climate change and promote environmental sustainability. Programmes such as Green Meghalaya and Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) have been rolled out to encourage community-led forest conservation and the protection of catchment areas, as well as the rejuvenation of water sources.
The state government is also actively promoting traditional knowledge and practices related to environmental protection, working closely with communities to find sustainable solutions.
In another key step, the state government, in collaboration with the National Law University Meghalaya, has launched the Climate Investments Coalition for the Global South (CICS).
This initiative aims to provide a platform for discussions on climate finance, green investments, and South-South cooperation.
The programme will be held annually in Shillong during the months of September and October.