The Department of Environment and Climate Change, in association with the Cuddalore district administration, Tamil Nadu Forest department and the School Education department, organised a two-day experiential learning programme for government school students to Anamalai and Parambikulam tiger reserves to create awareness on climate change, biodiversity and environmental conservation.

Flagging off the tour on Wednesday, District Collector Sibi Adhithya Senthil Kumar said the trip had been designed to help students understand forest conservation, the role of forests in combating climate change, and the concept of micro-climates.

As part of the programme, students would visit the Anamalai and Parambikulam tiger reserves, gaining first-hand exposure to the rich flora and fauna of the Western Ghats, forest ecosystems and wildlife conservation measures.

“Through this, the students will gain a comprehensive understanding of environmental education, climate change awareness, and the importance of biodiversity conservation. This will also help them grow into future environmental and climate-change ambassadors, and adopt eco-friendly practices,” the Collector said.

Official sources said the programme would also introduce students to the relationship between forests and climate change, including the role of forest vegetation in carbon sequestration, temperature regulation, water conservation and ecological balance. The exposure is intended to help the students see forests not merely as wildlife habitats, but as vital natural systems that build climate resilience and support climate change mitigation.

The Collector along with District Forest Officer S. Gurusamy, distributed eco-friendly kits to the students to encourage sustainable daily habits, including reducing single-use plastics, conserving water, practicing responsible waste management and choosing environmentally friendly alternatives.

According to S. Manivel, Green Fellow, Department of Environment and Climate Change, the objective of the programme is to take learning beyond the classrooms and help students understand climate change through direction interaction with forests, wildlife and natural ecosystems.