Leonardo Di Caprio is a staunch environmental activist and his support for the same is not unknown. Recently, the Titanic actor extended his support for Isha Foundation's Cauvery Calling campaign and while we may think it's a great move on his part, certain Civil Society Groups have requested him to revoke his plea. In a letter signed by the coordinator of the Environment Support Group Leo F. Saldanha, it has been emphasised that the campaign is not the appropriate platform for rehabilitating the river basin. Kangana Ranaut Slams Maharashtra Govt, BMC Over Aarey Colony Metro Project, Says ‘I Feel Power Should Be Given to Those Who Don’t Misuse It’.

This nationwide campaign initiated by the foundation aims to plant 242 crore trees along the Cauvery river but that's not adequate. The letter mentions how the planting of trees is merely one of the several necessary activities that have to be undertaken while others are based on local needs, and sensitive to local ecological dynamics while also taking into account constitutionally empowered Panchayats. The letter even states how the actor "may not have been appropriately advised" and that he should come and visit the basin personally. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Initiative ‘Earth Alliance’ Pledges $5 Million Donation for Amazon Rainforest Fires

As per the letter, the campaign promotes, "a monoculturist paradigm of landscape restoration which people of India have rejected long ago” and it wouldn't be wise for Caprio to extend his support for the same. This program could create unintended and unforeseen social and ecological consequences that may lead to drying up of streams and the destruction of wildlife habitats. Leonardo and his team are yet to revert to this letter and we wonder if the actor will consider it. You can read the entire letter here.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 25, 2019 08:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).