CHENNAI: There is a growing need for science students to pool in their ideas and develop a sustainable way to control pollution and curb global warming, according to speakers at the inauguration of Dana Bergh Hall, a chamber for coastal environmental research in Anna University, here on Monday.
Speaking at the event, Anna University Vice-Chancellor P.Mannar Jawahar said a multi-discipline interaction was crucial to find a solution for the issues concerning global environment.
The pyramid-shaped Dana Bergh Hall of the Institute of Ocean Management would serve as a platform for the students to pursue their research in earth and ocean sciences. It would also be a model centre with state-of-the-art laboratories and energy-efficient alternatives.
The Hall, a joint project of the university and the Rotary Club of Madras South, was built on the basis of a prize winning design of the students of Anna University’s School of Architecture and Planning. It has a low centre of gravity that ensures stability and utilises energy-efficient materials.
“The new facility would enable international partnerships on projects such as climate change. It is the first step towards devising sustainable climate control solutions,” he said.
Chairman of Chennai Port Trust K. Suresh said pollution levels in the Chennai Port were high as it handled coal and iron ore. He said that the port would be spruced up and made clean and green through a host of environment-friendly measures.
On the occasion, an Indo-US summer course on ‘Coastal environment’ for a total of 15 U.S. and ten Indian students got under way. The course, jointly organised by the Anna University and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, sought to expose the students to an international environment and train them on the latest developments in issues related to coastal environment.
Director of the Institute of Ocean management R. Ramesh spoke.
