Safeguarding environment is a shared responsibility, says APPCB chief

Safeguarding the environment is a shared responsibility of all, Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) Chairman P. Krishnaiah said on Friday.

Speaking at a seminar on ‘Environmental Pollution and Protection’ organised by SRM University-AP on its campus, Mr. Krishnaiah emphasised that environmental pollution poses a serious global threat and highlighted pressing environmental challenges, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable practices toward environmental conservation.

“Technology is the key driver for change, from thermal energy to solar and green hydrogen, bringing alternative energy sources. It is only with experimentation and innovation that we as a nation can contribute to resource conservation and environmental protection,” he said.

Speaking about waste management, Mr. Krishnaiah said the ‘Waste to Wealth’ policy should be brought into play and called for the need for transition from a linear economy to a more sustainable circular economy.

Chief Environmental Engineer, Vijayawada, M. Rajasekhar outlined various government schemes, incentives and policies aimed at encouraging proper waste management. He encouraged students to pursue career pathways in environmental science and environmental engineering.

Vice-Chancellor of SRM University-AP Ch. Satish Kumar remarked that the impact of long-term environmental pollution can be battled only through community participation, a collaborative effort by the government, industries and the public.

Environmental Engineer, Guntur, Nazeena Begum, Head of the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering Shoji D. Thottathil, Associate Professor Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian and others attended the programme.