Environment
KVKF recognizes that escalating populations and increasing standards of living and aspirations have led to dangerous impacts on habitats, ecosystems, and the elements. This stark reality has driven KVKF founder Kavita Khanna, who has done a substantial body of work for the environment and habitats, to explore how to reverse and prevent damage.
SOAK, Mumbai in an Estuary
Of the several environmental projects Kavita has steered is “SOAK: Mumbai in an Estuary”, a cross-sectoral partnership presented as an exhibition at the National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai, to enable a public discourse on the challenges of climate change and their impact on water resources. She seeks to use this experience to address the challenges of the riverine areas of Gurdaspur and Punjab.
SBA Solid Waste Management
Kavita has done several clean-ups in Gurdaspur villages as part of the “Swachch Bharat Abhiyaan”, showing the inhabitants how they could keep their villages clean.
To address the issue of garbage disposal and complete recycling Kavita invited recycling experts to make presentations to the district administrations of Pathankot and Gurdaspur districts. The Kavita and Vinod Khanna Foundation is focused on working for solid waste management interventions and solutions at the level of each village.
IRADA
Kavita organised a viewing of the National Award-winning film “Irada” in Pathankot to educate citizens of the issues of water contamination affecting Punjab. Kavita invited the National Award-winning script writer Anushka Rajan and Producer and Creative Director Prince Soni for the screening, and discussions were held post the film screening.
Rescuing the Keshopur-Miani Wetlands
The Keshopur-Miani wetlands in Gurdaspur, Punjab, serve as a critical habitat for migratory birds and are now endangered by environmental degradation. Littering, invasive plant species, and poaching are among the significant threats affecting this precious ecosystem.
KVKF is calling for urgent assistance in conserving the wetlands, envisaging a collaborative effort between local communities and public authorities. The strategy involves:
Environmental education: Creating awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean, balanced ecosystem.
Regular monitoring: Watching for changes, preventing and mitigating potential issues.
Responsible waste management: Cutting down unnecessary pollution, supporting recycling, and other sustainable waste management practices.