Lost at Sea: BITM's new gallery spotlights ocean conservation crisis
KOLKATA: A new exciting gallery is set to be inaugurated at the Birla Industrial & Technological Museum (BITM) that will showcase the wealth that oceans serve as fundamental source and sustainer of life on Earth.
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To be inaugurated on May 2, 'Lost at Sea' marks
National Council of Science Museums
' efforts to popularise the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030).
"Around 44% of global population resides within 150 km of coastal areas. Marine waters have absorbed 90% of human-induced global warming since the 1970s. Seafood constitutes the primary protein source for three out of seven people worldwide.
Currently, this vital
marine ecosystem
faces significant challenges," pointed out BITM director Arnab Chatterjee.
The oceans confront severe threats from rising sea levels, increasing water temperatures due to climate change, contamination, and excessive fishing practices, resulting in warmer, more acidic waters with diminishing marine life. A healthy ocean remains crucial for all inhabitants, regardless of their distance from the coast.
Swift and significant interventions could prevent the extinction of numerous species, including humans. However, developing concern for unfamiliar environments presents a challenge.
The Gallery 'Lost at Sea' encourages deeper understanding through various exhibits. It features interpretive displays showing extinct species, interactive multimedia presenting current threats to marine life, an augmented reality walkway displaying ocean statistics, virtual reality installations demonstrating traditional Japanese fish printing, a Vaquita skeleton replica showcasing the endangered dolphin, and presentations about ocean value.
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The gallery aims to promote awareness and inspire action in
ocean conservation
, emphasizing that our oceans are worth it – and more.
The Gallery inauguration, coinciding with the institution's 67th Foundation Day, represents an in-house development by engineers, artists, technicians and content creators, designed to communicate environmental urgency whilst maintaining optimism and promoting sustainable ocean appreciation.
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