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In spite of the rapid pace of developments and technological advancements there are various challenges today. Climate Change or Global Warming, increasing population pressure, Food deficiency, Freshwater deficit, and others are debated around the world. Now COVID 19 pandemic is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century and many more new challenges will come in the future which have their solutions in preserving our Bio-resources. In other words, it is becoming relevant now more than ever to save our Bio-resources.
Biological Resource means any resource of biological origin. India has diversity of biological resources in various areas which range from pristine ecosystems, agro-climatic ecosystems and ecosystems developed due to diverse socio-cultural conditions. However, the Bio-resources get depleted due to various causes such as anthropogenic activities, industrial development, agricultural practices, aquaculture, etc. Therefore, handling bio-resources in a proper manner is important for the optimum use without over exploitation of our bio-resources wealth.
Accordingly, a Centre of Excellence on “Bio-Resources Management and Energy Conservation Material Management” is being set up at Fakir Mohan University campus at Balasore, Odisha and the foundation stone for the centre was laid at the by its Vice-Chancellor Prof Dinabandhu Sahoo on 14th January 2021. The centre is being funded by World Bank and Odisha Higher Education Programme for Excellence & Equity (OHEPEE).
The 10,000 square feet centre will have world class laboratories with all modern facilities &equipment. The centre will concentrate on biodiversity assessment with special emphasis on seaweeds, mangroves, medicinal plants, microorganisms, marine mammals, etc. It will also undertake monitoring and management of pollution, ground and surface water quality. It will also carry out research on development of hybrid nano-composite materials for energy conservation.
During his address, Prof. Sahoo, emphasized on the importance of biodiversity in everyone’s life and stated that if properly managed, it will boost our economy. He also said that there is a need to conserve our biodiversity for future generations and go for bio-resources management to fulfil some of the objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG). Bio-resources Management and energy conservation can not only play a significant role in combating some of these challenges but also can generate billions of dollars as revenue to our economy and create millions of jobs in the country. Many such centres are required to be developed for effective Bio-resources management in the Country.
Anuradha Bajpayee, Sr. Manager (Env)
Environment & Diversity Management Division,
Corporate Office
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