The Department of Zoology and Research Centre at Lady Doak College, Madurai, is hosting a two-day National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration, bringing together environmental experts, researchers, and practitioners to discuss solutions for biodiversity conservation and sustainable restoration.
The conference was inaugurated on 30th Januray 2025 with a prayer by Dr. Jessi Ranjitha Jebaselvi, followed by a welcome address from Dr. Priyatharsini Rajendran, Head of the Department of Zoology. Dr. Beulah Jeyashree R., Principal and Secretary of Lady Doak College in her inaugural address, emphasized the urgency of ecosystem restoration and released the conference proceedings.
The keynote speaker, Dr. M. Abdul Kareem, Head of the Centre for Conservation of Natural Resources, Bengaluru, highlighted Blue Green Centres that promote climate resilience and ecosystem restoration. His address focused on five key initiatives—Restoration, Education, Community, Knowledge, and Eco-services—aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4, 13, 15, and 17.
Notable restoration projects in Tamil Nadu, such as the revival of Nadukkupam Village in Villupuram District and Adyar Park, showcased the impact of local community efforts and government support in restoring biodiversity. These initiatives have not only transformed landscapes but also changed public attitudes toward environmental conservation.
The conference is organized by Dr. Lourdhu Mary A. and Dr. Marie Serena McConnell, Assistant Professors at the Department of Zoology and Research Centre, Lady Doak College.