Present Environmental Condition and Its Impact on Livelihood – A Case Study of Two Villages around the University of Barisal

Abstract

The study was focused mainly on the level of knowledge and current situation on environmental pollution and degradation in the male, female and school going children living in Char Aicha and West Karnakathi villages in Barisal district. Data were collected randomly from 200 families (most of them consist of 6/7 members) by personal observation, focal group discussion and personal interviews during the period from January to June, 2016. The study revealed that majority of the people knew the basics of environmental pollution and degradation through television but they do not apply this in their way of living. On the other hand, about 30% of the people do not know what it is. The data showed that most of the women were not conscious about the devastation of pollution. As household wastes were not managed properly, the open area especially the ponds filled with waste. Pond is one of the prime sources of water for cooking and washing. Tree plantation program, hand washing program, school based awareness program, introduction of cheap water filtration process and discussion program on sustainable agricultural production revealed a positive attitude to manage environment. After these awareness programs, results showed that almost 90% of people follow the prescribed methods. In addition, primary school going children showed keen interest about the program and they play an important role in controlling pollution in the study area by sharing with their parents about the harmful effect of pollution in their regular life. The study will provide baseline information for controlling environmental pollution and degradation in the area.

Key Words: Environmental Pollution, Degradation, Awareness program, Kirtonkhola River.