The Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, in collaboration with the Manipur Pollution Control Board, organized the State-level observance of World Ozone Day at the Directorate Hall today under the United Nations theme, “From Science to Action.”

The session began with a welcome address and keynote remarks by Gyanen Urikhinbam, Programme Officer, and Dr. T. Brajakumar Singh, Director of the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change. Urikhinbam highlighted the vital role of the ozone layer in protecting life on Earth, while Dr. Brajakumar stressed that the observance of Ozone Day should serve as a call to action for present and future generations. He further noted that banning single-use plastics was a positive step toward securing a healthier planet.

Dr. W. Roshan Singh, Member Secretary of the Manipur Pollution Control Board, delivered an insightful presentation on the history of ozone-depleting substances. He explained the chemicals used in refrigeration, air conditioning, solvents, and foam-blowing industries, while also elaborating on the Montreal Protocol’s role in avoiding billions of tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions and its contribution to climate change mitigation.

This was followed by Dr. Y. Niveda Devi, State Nodal Officer for the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH), who presented on the linkages between climate change, air pollution, ozone depletion, and public health. She emphasized that climate change is a major health challenge, affecting clean air, water, food security, and shelter. Dr. Niveda outlined the direct and indirect health impacts of climate change, stressing the need to integrate climate concerns into health planning and policy-making. She also urged media professionals to highlight climate-related health issues.

Dr. Likmabam Sanjoy Meitei, Assistant Professor at Dhanamanjuri University, underscored the role of the scientific community in meeting UN targets for ozone layer protection. He emphasized the importance of individual choices, such as using ozone-friendly products, avoiding harmful chemicals, and supporting environmental policies.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Ph. Vivekananda Sharma, Joint Director, who expressed gratitude for the valuable contributions and collaborative efforts that made the observance successful.