Report on Workshop on ‘Recent Trends and Advances in Environmental Sciences’ by Prof. Surendra Singh Suther

A lecture cum workshop on ‘Recent trends and Advances in Environmental Sciences’ was organized by the Department of Zoology& Environmental Science, School of Basic & Applied Sciences, Shri Guru Ram Rai University, Patel Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand on 5 May 2025. The event was graced by Prof. Surendra Singh Suther, Dean and Head of the School of Environment and Natural Resources, Doon University, Dehradun as the keynote speaker. The session began with a welcome address by Prof. Rajesh Rayal, Head of the Department. Prof. Rayal introduced Prof. Suther by highlighting his extensive contribution to the field of environmental science, particularly in areas such as solid waste management, ecotoxicology, composting science, bioremediation, waste-to-energy, and emerging pollutants. Prof. Suther has an illustrious career spanning over 25 years, marked by several prestigious honors and awards.

Prof. Suther began his lecture com workshop with a comprehensive introduction to Environmental Science and emphasized its growing importance in the face of global challenges. He focused significantly on the concept of sustainable development and explained the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Tracing the history of the United Nations, Prof. Suther detailed the evolution of global environmental agendas and the necessity for international cooperation in meeting sustainability targets. He shed light on the increasing pollution of natural resources, especially water pollution, which has emerged as a critical threat to public health and ecosystems.

A major part of his lecture focused on the emerging concern of microplastics and their hazardous impacts on human health and the food chain. He elaborated on how Indigenous Traditional Knowledge (ITK) can be effectively employed to address pollution problems. Drawing a practical comparison, he explained the membrane-based purification systems like RO, used in modern households and contrasted them with eco-friendly traditional practices such as using copper vessels and earthen pots, which naturally purify water and enhance its quality.

Prof. Suther concluded his inspiring lecture by motivating the students to pursue careers in environmental science. He encouraged them to contribute wholeheartedly to research and development, emphasizing that their efforts can pave the way for a sustainable future and make Earth a better place to live. Dr. Vivekanand Bahuguna, Dr. Kamal Bijalwan, Dr. Veena Maurya and Dr. Shikha Uniyal Gairola were among the faculty members who were present along with 150 students.

The session was intellectually enriching and provided students with valuable insights into contemporary environmental issues and sustainable solutions rooted in both modern science and traditional knowledge. The event concluded with Vote of Thanks given by Prof. Rajesh Rayal.