Work in harmony with Nature to solve environmental problems - Minister

Environmental and Natural Resources Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka called on all to work in harmony with Nature to solve future environmental problems.

"We will have to face bigger environmental problems in the future. The only solution to this is to work in harmony with Nature," he said, at a ceremony to present Environment Protection Identity Cards to 125 senior citizens.

One hundred and twenty five senior citizens representing 23 districts including the North and the East participated. The Minister said to face challenges posed by Nature, it was important to enlighten the masses.

"The knowledge and experience gathered by senior citizens is vital for this. They could act as the link with the Central Environmental Authority, Forestry Department, Wildlife Department and Geological Survey and Mines Bureau," he said.

"Some people underestimate the role of senior citizens. But we understand their knowledge, vision and mental balance are far superior. We gave the chance to our youth to change the world but it ended up in bloodshed," the Minister said.

"Though the use of loudspeakers is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 6.00 a.m., permission could be obtained for national and religious ceremonies. If the people in the area are ready to tolerate loudspeakers, Police can permit the use of loudspeakers.

Therefore the law preventing sound pollution would not be any obstacle during Vesak," he said.

Ven. Athuraliye Rathana Thera delivered the keynote address.