No Plastic (Polythene) Campaign Organized by DAMITS

Venue: Jhirpani Village, Rourkela

In a step toward reducing environmental pollution, Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Medical Science (DAMITS) organized a No Plastic Campaign at Jhirpani Village, Rourkela. The event aimed to spread awareness about the harmful effects of plastic, especially single-use plastic, and promote eco-friendly alternatives.

Campaign Highlights

1. Participant Engagement:
   Over 300 students, 50 faculty members, and 100 local residents joined the campaign, taking part in various activities to raise awareness and promote a cleaner environment.

2. Awareness Sessions:

   • Local community members were educated about the negative impacts of plastic pollution, such as its contribution to soil and water contamination.
   • Environmental experts provided valuable insights on reducing plastic use and the importance of adopting sustainable practices like using cloth bags, paper bags, and other eco-friendly materials.

3. Plastic Collection Drive:

   • As part of the campaign, 500 kilograms of plastic waste were collected from the streets and public areas in Jhirpani Village, promoting cleanliness and setting an example for other areas to follow.
   • Participants were encouraged to avoid the use of plastic in their daily lives and were given alternatives, including reusable bags and containers, which were distributed during the campaign.

4. Pledge to Reduce Plastic Use:

   • A community pledge was taken by all participants to reduce plastic consumption and use sustainable alternatives. Over 250 individuals signed the pledge, committing to avoid plastic bags, bottles, and other single-use plastic products.

Impact of the Campaign

• Environmental Benefits:

  • The collection of 500 kilograms of plastic was an important step in cleaning the village and preventing further pollution. This event set an example for local residents to minimize plastic waste and take ownership of their environment.

• Educational Outreach:

  • With over 450 participants in the awareness sessions and pledge signing, the campaign successfully engaged the community in discussions about the need for plastic reduction and the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.

• Community Involvement:

  • The collaboration between DAMITS students, faculty, and the local community helped strengthen ties, with everyone working together to make a tangible difference in the village’s cleanliness.

Feedback from Participants

• Anjali Sharma, a student volunteer, said, “It feels great to be a part of this initiative. The awareness sessions were eye-opening, and I feel inspired to do my part in reducing plastic waste.”
• Sanjay Patel, a local resident, added, “This campaign has opened my eyes to the damaging effects of plastic. I will certainly use cloth bags from now on and encourage my family and friends to do the same.”

Future Plans

• DAMITS plans to continue its efforts in plastic reduction by:
  • Organizing monthly clean-up drives and awareness campaigns across Rourkela.
  • Working with local businesses to encourage the use of biodegradable materials instead of plastic.
  • Introducing workshops in schools and colleges to teach students about the dangers of plastic and how they can contribute to a cleaner planet.

Conclusion

The No Plastic Campaign, organized by DAMITS at Jhirpani Village, was an important milestone in the effort to reduce plastic pollution. By engaging over 300 students and 100 local residents, the campaign successfully raised awareness and encouraged practical steps to reduce plastic consumption in the community.

DAMITS remains committed to environmental sustainability and will continue to advocate for cleaner, greener communities, taking active steps to reduce plastic waste and promote eco-friendly living.