Bhubaneswar: The government on Tuesday released a a five-year action plan on climate change during World Environment Day celebrations here.

A forest department official said that the action plan was mooted to tackle environment pollution and the government had also incorporated budgetary provision in it.

Global warming has emerged as a threat to the environment that is being reflected along the Odisha coast with the growing severity of waves resulting in erosion at several places in Kendrapara, Puri and Ganjam. Sources said the action plan would focus on combating global warming.

Another forest official said they would intensify awareness on the use of polythene that causes maximum hazard. This year's theme for World Environment Day was "Beat Plastic Pollution".

Speaking during the event, chief minister Naveen Patnaik said plastic pollution was a major challenge. "The foremost method of controlling this growing pollution is to create awareness among people and to ensure minimum use of plastic and, if possible, only recyclable or biodegradable plastics. Use of several alternative materials such as paper and glass should be encouraged."

A series of events were held in Bhubaneswar to observe the day. Officials of the Airports Authority of India, Bhubaneswar, and the Central Industrial Security Force launched a cleanliness drive at Biju Patnaik International Airport to spread awareness about keeping the facility and its environment free from pollution, polythene and other plastic waste.

Nandankanan zoo authorities also decided to install a plastic bottle crusher and a disposal unit on the occasion. "The crusher unit will be installed near the entrance and, in order to encourage people to use the facility, mobile talktime of Rs 10 will be added to their numbers," said zoo deputy director Jayant Dash.