Governor Launches A.P. Climate Action Plan, Amaravati Plastic-free City Campaign

Andhra Pradesh Governor and president of the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), A.P. State Branch, S. Abdul Nazeer, on Tuesday launched the A.P. Climate Action Plan and Amaravati Plastic-free City Campaign at a programme organised by the A.P. Red Cross in Guntur.

Calling the initiative a “unique and forward-looking” step, the Governor said it would address both local and global environmental challenges. He praised the active participation of students, Junior Red Cross members, young volunteers, and community representatives, adding that youth involvement was key to the long-term success of such campaigns.

Abdul Nazeer expressed confidence that the campaign would soon be implemented across all districts through joint efforts by the government, educational institutions, NGOs, and the public.

Highlighting environmental risks, he urged citizens to reduce single-use plastics and adopt sustainable habits. “India’s per capita plastic consumption is 11 kg, generating nearly 3.5 million metric tonnes of waste annually,” he said, warning of the serious impact on ecosystems and public health.

He linked the initiative to Goal 13 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which calls for urgent action against climate change, and appreciated the support of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Geneva.

“Climate change is not a distant issue. From heatwaves to floods, its effects are already visible. We must act at every level,” the Governor stressed, urging Vice-Chancellors to promote the campaign in colleges with active involvement from students and faculty.

The Governor later administered a Green Pledge to students, reaffirming their commitment to sustainable practices and responsible waste management.

The programme was attended by Guntur District Collector S. Nagalakshmi, A.P. Red Cross chairman Y.D. Rama Rao, general secretary and CEO A.K. Parida, Secretary to the Governor M. Hari Jawaharlal, Red Cross treasurer P. Ramachandra Raju, and IRCS Guntur District Branch chairman V. Ravi. It concluded with interactive sessions on climate action, waste management, and community-led environmental initiatives.