A decade-long partnership for a greener future, encouraging schools to implement innovative green ideas and reduce their carbon footprint through the ‘Green Your School’ contest.
NEW DELHI (India CSR): Carrier India, in its longstanding collaboration with the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), has been steadfastly supporting the annual ‘Green Your School’ contest. This nationwide initiative encourages and empowers students and schools to contribute, develop and implement actionable green ideas, fostering innovative sustainability projects, and reducing carbon footprints within educational institutions. Over the past 14 years, this joint program has witnessed a significant impact on schools across India.
Promoting Sustainability in Schools
The ‘Green Your School’ contest is a unique platform where schools from various cities and villages compete by presenting actionable green projects. The goal is to enhance sustainability within their premises making the campus green. Since its inception in 2007, the contest has seen a steady increase in participation, with nearly 100 schools receiving grants to implement their sustainability projects, thanks to Carrier’s ongoing support.
Igniting Young Minds for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Innovative Projects by Young Minds
This year’s, contest witnessed a plethora of creative ideas aimed at promoting sustainability. Winning projects showcase creativity and practicality. Schools have implemented a range of innovative ideas, including:
- Rooftop Solar Panels: Installing solar panels on school rooftops to harness clean energy and reduce electricity consumption.
- Wastewater Reuse: Redirecting wastewater for irrigation, and nourishing school gardens while conserving water resources.
- Plastic Reduction: Schools actively minimize plastic usage, promoting eco-friendly alternatives.
- Wastepaper Recycling: Transforming discarded paper into pencils, promoting resource efficiency.
These initiatives aim to reduce the schools’ carbon footprints and also instill a sense of environmental responsibility among students.
Evaluation and Recognition
A distinguished panel of jury members from the IGBC, Carrier India, United Way Delhi, and experts from diverse fields meticulously evaluate project submissions from schools nationwide. They carefully selected the top eight finalists based on the feasibility and impact of their projects. The winning schools receive cash prizes to implement their innovative ideas within their school premises.
Ensuring Lasting Impact
The IGBC team plays a crucial role in supporting the winning schools throughout the implementation and monitors progress. They provide guidance and conduct audits to ensure the successful execution of sustainability initiatives.
A Legacy of Green Impact
From 40 to 800: A Remarkable Journey
Farokh Madan, Director of Marketing and Strategy at SAP of Carreir India, reflected on the journey of the ‘Green Your School’ contest. “Our journey with ‘Green Your School’ started in 2007 with just 40 schools participating,” said Madan. “This number continued to grow over the years, and we have seen more than 800 schools participating in 2019. It is overwhelming to hear the innovative ideas from these kids to minimize the waste of water, electricity, and other resources and their commitment to a more sustainable environment.”
(India CSR)
