Pune: Chakan Industries Mark World Environment Day with Call to End Plastic Pollution

Chakan, 6th June 2025: In a collective push towards environmental sustainability, the Federation of Chakan Industries, in association with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Pune, organized an awareness program at OEN Industries Ltd to mark World Environment Day. The initiative focused on the global theme, “Ending Plastic Pollution.”

Held on June 4, the program drew nearly 90 participants, including company representatives, environmental experts, local leaders, and citizens. Among the notable attendees were Pratik Bharaney, Regional Director of CPCB Pune; Nitin Gore, Board Member, MPCB; Shri Babasaheb Kukde and Navnath Avtade, Sub-Regional Officers of MPCB Pune; and Madhav Khandekar, Chief Officer, Alandi Municipal Council.

A series of presentations and talks highlighted the adverse effects of plastic on the environment, urging immediate and collective action. Speaking at the event, Nitin Gore appealed to industries to utilize their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to tackle local pollution challenges.

“Industrial participation is key in environmental reform. We urge industries to invest in initiatives that directly reduce pollution in their areas,” he said.

Addressing the gathering, Madhav Khandekar pointed to the worsening condition of the Indrayani River and emphasized the need for corporate contributions to clean-up drives. “Companies in the region must step forward and help restore the health of our rivers, which are being choked by waste and untreated discharge,” he said.

Babasaheb Kukde reinforced the urgency of the issue, calling for industries and citizens alike to adopt a natural and sustainable lifestyle. “Pollution cannot be delayed anymore. We must reduce dependence on plastic and conserve our resources,” he said.

Dilip Batwal, CEO of the Federation of Chakan Industries, called on participants to take specific steps in their daily operations and personal lives. “Reducing plastic use, conserving electricity, planting trees, and banning single-use plastic at public events are practical steps every company can implement. Environmental protection should become a habit, not a formality,” Batwal stated.

The event also featured a pledge led by Navnath Avtade, where all participants vowed to avoid single-use plastic. A symbolic tree plantation activity followed, reinforcing the message of environmental restoration. The program concluded with a networking session over tea.

The World Environment Day awareness campaign was observed from May 22 to June 5, aligning with global efforts to combat plastic pollution and promote sustainable living.