Speakers at a conference on ocean conservation have suggested adoption of an eco-based approach to maintain the sustainability of ocean resources and conserve the marine ecosystem.
The conference also noted that dumping of nuclear waste expelled from nuclear reactors, into the deep sea would pose a threat to ocean resources.
The conference was organised here by the School of Ocean Studies and Technology, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), as part of World Ocean Day.
Inaugurating the conference, J Letha, Vice-Chancellor, Cochin University of Science and Technology, called upon researchers to consider sociological aspects in the oceanic sector in their research activities. The common people should be made aware of the study reports and regulations followed by it.
N. R. Menon, Chairman of the Nansen Environmental Research Centre, India, said alternative ways should be found for waste disposal. Existing global maritime rules and regulations should be strengthened to curb the problem of dumping of waste in the sea.
B Madhusoodana Kurup, Vice-Chancellor, KUFOS, suggested that effective methods should be formulated to preserve ocean resources since the ocean plays a major role in fulfilling food security.
Eminent scientists, experts, oceanographers, technocrats, and students participated in the conference, which focused on the theme ‘Healthy Ocean, Healthy Planet’.