Caring for the environment

Selfish behaviour of Mankind...

The environment is facing several issues just because of the selfish behaviours and acts carried out. Some include the irresponsible disposal of waste, poor handling of plastics and even the constant use of styrofoam and single use plastic just for one's convenience.

Issue in the wild:

In the wild, irresponsible and selfish birders and photographers often trample into the animal's habitats, firing off flashes and even occasionally baits the animals to get a better shot. This will destroy the animal's habitat, disrupt their lives and hunting habits as they get more reliant to the presence of humans!

What can WE do?

As nature lovers and passionate photographers of SJI who care for the environment. We have set up the photographer's 'Code of Ethics'. This will guide young and beginning photographer what they should and shouldn't do in order to preserve the habitat

'Codes of Ethic'

1) Avoid using flashes whenever possible

2) Never intrude into an animal's territory especially if there is a nesting or the presence of juveniles

3) Do not litter in the animal's habitat

4) Do not disturb or destroy the animal's habitat by leaving your waste behind and by staying on designated road tracks/paths.

5) Do not spook, taunt or bait an animal to achieve a good shot as this may disturb it's normal hunting habits when they start relying too much on humans

6) If the animal shows signs of aggression(flapping off wings, looking in your direction, fluffing of feathers, signs of distress) or has started to take attention of your presence, please back away slowly

7) Do not speak loudly, shout or yell as this may attract the animal's attention and disrupt it's live

8) Avoid wearing bright colour like Red, Light Green, Yellow, Orange as animals take notice of such colours more easily. Aim to wear dark/neutral colour like Black, Grey, white, Dark Green in order to blend in.

9) Every once in awhile, do give the animal some space by backing off. At the same time, do give the space to other photographers when you got your shot. Please do not hog onto the spot as this is selfish and is poor etiquette!

10) A telephoto lens is very much recommended as it allows you to shoot the animals from a respectful distance

One step further:

What can we do? We are young, our voices carry no impact at all...

That's false... Remember every small action in a community forms a big impact! We could all do our part by:

1) Saying no to Single use Plastics

2) Using biodegradable bags and disposables if necessary

3) Participating in beach clean-up events(Coming soon?More thought should be placed into this)

4) Convincing your families to play their part

5) Abiding by the 'Code of Ethics'

6) Think before we carry out any actions-Think about what will happen if we litter, if we intrude into an animal's territory and if we continue to irresponsibly use plastic disposables when purchasing food during recess...