IE : 18 youths, 1 mission: Fight global warming : Oct 15,2007
18 youths, 1 mission: Fight global warming
City might witness an hour of voluntary darkness on Dec 15 to spread
awareness on climate change
NIVEDITA BHATTACHARJEE
OCTOBER 15
W ITH talks of global warming doing the rounds, a group of young men and
women from Mumbai have decided to take matters into their own hands. If
their endeavour comes through, Mumbai will see an hour of voluntary darkness
on December 15. “Mumbai Unplugged” is an approach to generate awareness
about global warming and convince citizens to save thermal electricity.
Keith Menon, copywriter and script supervisor with Cartoon Network and Pogo,
said, “The average per capita consumption of electricity in India is almost
408 KWs, as opposed to 72 KWs in 1972. With the country’s development, this
will keep increasing.” Shiladitya Chakraborty, sub-editor with a tourism
portal added, “While development is good, one should take into account the
aftereffects.”
The 18-member group has roped in schools, colleges, corporate houses and
public bodies to support the cause.
“Corporates like Philips have shown interest. We are plan ning to approach
Maharash tra State Electricity Board (MSEB),” said Priyanjali Ghose, a group
member.
Chief Information Officer of MSEB Dhotonde told Newsline that he was not
aware of the initiative, but sees it as an effective way to generate
awareness. “How ever, the success of such dri ves depends on the involve
ment of residents. There needs to be sustained efforts and a one of example
will not make much difference,” he added. Though the current agenda is to
generate aware ness about the imminent danger of global warming, they see
shifting to alternate energy sources as an option for a better future. “The
one time investment of installing solar power stations is a sus tainable and
cost effective al ternative,” they said. The group is looking to eventually
spread the drive country wide, where residents will voluntarily “unplug”
electri cal goods to save power.