Gurugram, Aug 12: Brightsun Travel India marked World Elephant Day by hosting a nature awareness session led by Dr. G. Areendran, Director, Tech for Conservation at WWF-India and Coordinator, WWF EIACP PC-RP.
Titled “The Little Things That Run the World,” the session explored how the survival of elephants is closely connected to forests, water systems and smaller species such as birds, butterflies, fireflies and dragonflies. It highlighted the essential role that wildlife and natural ecosystems play in supporting clean air, water, food production and pollination.
The discussion focused on the endangered Asian elephant and its role as an ecosystem engineer. By creating forest clearings, shaping vegetation and dispersing seeds, elephants help maintain habitats that support numerous plant and animal species.
Dr. Areendran also addressed major threats to elephant conservation, including habitat loss, fragmented wildlife corridors, infrastructure development, climate change, poaching and human-elephant conflict. ”Lasting solutions require protection and restoration of wildlife corridors, community-supported early-warning systems and timely assistance for families affected by human-elephant conflict”, he said.
The session encouraged participants to take practical steps such as growing native plants, reducing unnecessary outdoor lighting, avoiding harmful pesticides, limiting single-use plastic and supporting local conservation initiatives.
Responsible tourism was another key focus. Travellers were encouraged to avoid wildlife products, choose ethical and low-impact nature experiences, respect animal habitats and support conservation organisations and local communities.
Commenting on the initiative, Sandeep Arora, Director, Brightsun Travel India, said,
“Travel allows people to experience the natural world more closely, but that connection must also come with a sense of responsibility. Protecting elephants is closely linked to protecting forests, water systems, smaller species and the communities that share these landscapes. We hope the session encourages people to make more conscious choices while travelling and in their everyday lives.”
The initiative reflects Brightsun Travel India’s efforts to encourage greater awareness of conservation and responsible travel, while highlighting how individual choices can contribute to protecting wildlife and natural ecosystems.