Green campuses initiative targets 1,000 cities by 2030

A new campaign called ‘Green Campuses for Green Cities’ was launched recently. It aims to create environmentally friendly educational campuses in 1,000 cities by 2030. The initiative focuses on sustainability in universities and higher education institutions. The campaign is led by the Association for Promoting Sustainability in Campuses and Communities (APSCC). This effort aligns with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, which runs from 2021 to 2030. It aims to encourage conservation, innovation, and motivation for sustainable development. During the launch, Lt. Governor K. Kailashnathan emphasized the need for collaboration among government bodies, educational institutions, industries, and communities. He believes the campaign can make Puducherry a model for sustainable education in India. Golda A. Edwin, from APSCC, and M. Nandhivarman, the program chair, announced plans to replicate the green campus initiatives throughout the country. They shared that a model developed over 15 years in Puducherry will be used in other campuses. G. Viswanathan, Vice Chancellor of VIT University, urged all institutions to engage in the green campus initiative. M. Dhanasekaran, Chancellor of Takshashila University, praised the collaboration across various sectors to promote environmental conservation. P. Arulrajan, Chief Conservator of Forests and Wildlife, expressed hope that educational institutions will lead in conservation efforts. Education Secretary P. Jawahar highlighted the campaign's potential to transform educational spaces into environmentally friendly areas. Local Administration Secretary R. Kesavan noted that even small actions can help reduce pollution and slow down environmental damage.