Biodiversity is the essence of life on earth. Nature has blessed our earth with a wealth of varied ecosystems comprising of millions of species, flora and fauna which make it livable and beautiful. The symbiotic relationship between these various ecosystems drives life and sustenance. Given the importance of this coexistence, The United Nations has declared the year 2010 as the ‘International Year of Biodiversity’. The theme for this year’s World Environment Day announced by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) – “Many Species. One Planet. One Future”- very aptly manifests and reiterates the importance of preserving the biodiversity on our planet.

Each year on June 5, World Environment Day presents an occasion before all of us, to think and act urgently on a host of issues pertaining to the environment and its preservation. The Day reminds us not only of our responsibility, but also of our capability to become agents for change leading to sustainable and equitable development. It also reminds us of an opportunity for advocating partnerships among all stakeholders, more specifically, among all species living in this planet and sharing a common future. The immense significance of biodiversity conservation for human welfare, global economic development and poverty reduction has been recognized as a key concern for all to protect our environment for the present and future generations.

Over-exploitation of our planet’s resources due to human greed has had a significant adverse impact on the natural ecosystems. Over the years, we have seen extinction of a number of species of animals, birds, insects, plants etc. from the face of the earth due to human activities and plundering. As a result, we are increasingly risking the loss of very foundation of our own survival.

As a responsible corporate entity, we have been doing our bit by making our operations environment friendly. While the country faces many challenges ranging from overcoming poverty to developing sustainable energy resources, IndianOil has been at the forefront in developing forward-looking strategies on reducing energy consumption including development of renewable energies. These include the use of Wind power for power generation, Solar power for lighting and water heating, Biodiesel as a fuel for vehicles etc. Renewable and alternate energy sources are set to play an increasingly important role in providing the basic amenities that society needs without degrading the environment.

On this occasion of World Environment Day let each one of us take a pledge to protect our ecosystems and biodiversity in every sphere of our lives for One planet and One future. Let us make every day a World Environment Day.


B.N. Bankapur
Director (Refineries)