February 2, 2025
My journey into wetland conservation has been a tapestry woven with global experiences and a profound commitment to my homeland. Each endeavor, whether on international soil or within the familiar landscapes of Kerala, has reinforced the belief that meaningful change often begins at home.
2016 World Wetlands Day Contest – A Global Perspective
In 2016, a photograph capturing women harvesting lotus leaves and flowers for their livelihoods earned me the honor of winning the World Wetlands Day Youth Photo Contest. This accolade opened the door to the Pantanal in Brazil, the world’s largest wetland. Immersed in its vast biodiversity, I contributed to documentation efforts and penned an article titled “The Floating Mystery” for the Ramsar Convention.
Pichavaram Story – The Power of Media in Conservation
The following year, I participated in the Global Youth Video Competition on Climate Change. My short film, “Let Mangroves Recover,” highlighted the critical role of mangroves in coastal protection and climate resilience. Showcasing the restoration of Pichavaram’s mangroves, the film emphasized that “sometimes nature is the only answer.” This project demonstrated the power of visual storytelling in environmental advocacy and reinforced my belief in media as a catalyst for change.
Youth Engaged in Wetlands (YEW) – Mobilizing Global Youth
As the regional coordinator for YEW, I attended the first core meeting in Tokyo. Collaborating with passionate young environmentalists, we developed strategic plans to mobilize youth for wetland conservation. This role expanded my perspective, illustrating the strength of collective action and the necessity of engaging the next generation in environmental stewardship.
Despite these global engagements, my heart remained tethered to Vellayani Lake in Kerala. Once a pristine freshwater source, the lake had suffered from encroachment, pollution, and invasive species, leading to a significant reduction in its area—from 558.93 hectares in 1973 to a mere 222 hectares by 2019. The degradation threatened local livelihoods, biodiversity, and the cultural fabric of the community.
In collaboration with the Swasthi Foundation, State Wetland Authority of Kerala, I became Principal Investigator of the “Revive Vellayani” project. Our mission was clear: restore the lake to its former glory through a multifaceted approach.
Key Interventions:
• Community Clean-Up Drives: Mobilizing local residents, we conducted extensive clean-up operations to remove weeds, water hyacinths, and waste. These efforts not only rejuvenated the lake but also fostered a sense of ownership among the community.
• Biodiversity Restoration: By reintroducing native flora and creating habitats conducive to migratory birds, we aimed to revive the lake’s ecological balance.
• Policy Advocacy: Collaborating with governmental bodies, Public-Private partnerships, we sought the enforcement of protective regulations to prevent further encroachment and pollution.
The project’s impact resonated beyond local boundaries. The Kerala Tourism Minister, Kadakampally Surendran, inaugurated a 75-day clean-up initiative, reflecting governmental recognition and support. The transformation of Vellayani Lake became a testament to the power of grassroots action complemented by policy intervention.
Parallaly upon the success of Revive Vellayani, I co-founded Climatehood, an NGO dedicated to climate action and education. One of our flagship programs, the Wetland Schooling Initiative, offers immersive experiences for students and young enthusiasts. Activities such as bird watching and paddy farming at Vellayani Lake provide hands-on learning, instilling a deep appreciation and sense of responsibility towards wetlands. 10000+ Youngsters already participated.
Recognizing the need for continuous dialogue and awareness, I launched “Wetland Matters,” an online magazine exclusively focused on wetland conservation. This platform serves as a nexus for sharing success stories, research findings, and fostering a global community of wetland advocates.
From the expansive marshes of the Pantanal to the resilient mangroves of Pichavaram, each experience has enriched my understanding. However, the revival of Vellayani Lake holds a special place in my heart. It’s a reminder that while global perspectives are invaluable, transformative change often begins at home. Through collective effort, informed strategies, and unwavering dedication, we can restore and preserve the natural treasures that define our communities.
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