07-05-2025
Engaging exhibits to promote the idea of ocean conservation
An infographic exhibition titled 'L'Océan, colosse aux pieds d'argile' (The Ocean, Colossus with the Feet of Clay), has begun at the Alliance Française as part of 'The Festival of Ideas – We Are the Ocean,' a pan-Indian initiative organised by the French Embassy, the French Institute in India, in collaboration with the Alliance française network.
The focus of the festival aligns with the UN Decade of Ocean Science (2021–2030) and leads up to the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC), co-hosted by France and Costa Rica in Nice from June 9 to 13.
The exhibition (May 2 to 14) highlights the fragility of ocean ecosystems and the urgent need for marine conservation through a series of engaging infographics.
The visuals showcase global efforts — including those from France — to sustainably use, protect, and preserve flora and fauna of the ocean. Divided into five thematic sections, the exhibition outlines a step-by-step approach: expanding scientific knowledge of marine species and ecosystems; studying the impacts of global warming and climate change on maritime species; preserving the ocean's biodiversity; balancing sustainable use with protection against overexploitation; and finally, raising public awareness about the vital role oceans play in sustaining life and mobilising them to take action.
The infographics seek to drive home the imperative of preserving the ocean ecosystem, as it is an essential organ for the planet's health and crucial for the survival and well-being of future generations.
The event has been staged in collaboration with the French Development Agency and Dakshin Foundation and with support of the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the French Institute for Ocean Science (Ifremer), in partnership with the Parisian Autonomous Transport Administration (RATP). The other partners are Mongabay India, Oceanopolis, Nausicaa, Environmentalist Foundation of India and Tara Ocean Foundation.
Meanwhile, an ecology meet held on Tuesday at the Alliance Francaise, advocated for greater youth participation in environmental action.
The conference on 'Youth as catalysts: Are we listening to the generation that inherits the planet?' was held by Alliance Française as part of 'Ocean Month' under the pan Indian 'Festival of Ideas – We Are The Ocean'.
Addressing the conference, Mangal Kothari, Head of the Clean Earth Initiative in Puducherry, emphasised the need for the younger generation to be provided with opportunities to engage in environmental action. Sahir Doshi, a conservation educator and communicator said, 'Youth in urban areas are disconnected to the environment, hence education regarding their local surroundings is vital for them to connect to the cause.'
E. Haripriya, Senior Programme Associate, Sustainable Fisheries, Dakshin Foundation said, 'Today's youth are clear about what they want; it's up to those in power to provide them with a platform to express their voices.'
A combination of monetary support from organisations and the government can encourage more youth to take part in ecological conservation, she noted.
Laurent Jalicous, Director of Alliance Française also spoke. Vidisha, Programme Officer, Dakshin Foundation moderated the discussions.
