Experts urge nature-based climate action as water crisis and biodiversity loss deepen

Lucknow: With climate change, biodiversity loss and water scarcity posing serious threats, there is a need for urgent adoption of nature-based solutions to build long-term resilience.

The advice was given by experts at the two-day workshop organised by the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP) on Wednesday and Thursday ahead of World Environment Day.

The event was attended by over 150 participants from eight states, including scientists, policymakers, forest officials and students.

BSIP director Prof Mahesh G Thakkar said environmental responsibility must move beyond symbolic observances and become part of everyday life.

“Nature archives provide crucial insights into how ecosystems have responded to climate change in the past and can guide future preparedness,” he said.

Highlighting the growing water crisis, Padma Shri awardee and water conservationist Uma Shankar Pandey called for revival of traditional water management systems.

Drawing on his work in drought-prone Banda, he pointed to the success of his ‘Khet Mein Med, Med Par Ped’ campaign and advocated field bunding as an effective way to recharge groundwater.

“Water connects all forms of life. India must rebuild its traditional relationship with ponds, wetlands and local water bodies if it wants to secure its future,” Pandey said, warning of shrinking rivers and depleting groundwater.

Additional principal chief conservator of forests (project tiger), UP, Ram Kumar said climate change is unfolding at an unprecedented pace, leading to rising temperatures, biodiversity decline and ecological stress.

He highlighted ongoing afforestation drives and wetland conservation initiatives in the state aimed at strengthening climate resilience.