"Today there is a constant climate change in the universe. Deforestation, industrialisation and transportation emitted carbon-dioxide has caused a hole in the ozone layer,leading to increased heating of the planet Earth. This is the major cause of flood and draught. If youth of the nation decide, they can definitely change the situation," he said.
He was addressing and interacting with students at Mar Augusthinos College at Ramapuram in the district.
"Every Indian must take an oath that he will plant and nurture at least one tree. One fully grown tree absorbs 20 kg carbon dioxide and emits 14 kg of oxygen.
"During our lifetime, if we plant 10 trees and nurture them, we will have over 10 billion trees. These 10 billion trees can definitely contain the climate change problem," Kalam noted.
This endeavour would mean not only the planting of trees but keeping the house and environment clean, he said.
Stating that inclusive development of villages was vital for progress of the nation, he suggested that teachers and students of the college select a rural complex, comprising nearly 50 villages with a population of around one lakh in the neighbourhood and transform that into a dynamic and economically viable unit.