IIT Mandi Receives ‘Green University’ Award at COP28

IIT Mandi has been honored with the prestigious Green University Award in COP 28 UAE.

Dr Deepak Swami from IIT Mandi receiving ‘Green University’ Award.

The Indian Institute of Technology Mandi (IIT Mandi) has been honored with the prestigious Green University Award in COP 28 UAE. This prestigious accolade was conferred by Green Mentors, a non-governmental organization holding special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in the United States. The recognition was given to the Institute in acknowledgment of its comprehensive commitment to sustainable practices and its holistic approach towards environmental initiatives.

Speaking on the achievement, Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT Mandi, said, “This achievement is the result of the unwavering efforts, commitment, and groundwork carried out by the faculty, staff, and student community through various activities.”

IIT Mandi's vision is to raise awareness among young students and campus residents about environmental issues, as well as the conservation of nature and natural resources in the surrounding area. To maintain ecological balance, IIT Mandi is actively engaged in conducting Environment Audits, implementing Green Audits, and promoting vegetarian food options on campus. This involves evaluating the campus's environmental impact and assessing the net carbon footprint of various units within the institution.

The overall goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve zero carbon emissions within the next 10 years. These green initiatives will not only help the institution assess its own environmental impact but also instill environmental consciousness among the campus community.

Furthermore, the institution aims to create a model framework for an eco-conscious campus and explore revenue generation through carbon trading.

At the global level, this recognition was attributed at the prestigious CoP 28 platform. The award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Institute community.

IIT Mandi's location in the pristine foothills of the Himalayas serves as a constant source of motivation to maintain a thriving green environment and minimize our ecological impact on the Himalayan ecosystem by adopting a conscious lifestyle. This recognition further strengthens our commitment to living in an eco-conscious manner on campus. We strive to preserve the local flora and fauna and create a sustainable campus that harmonizes with its surroundings.

About Green University Award

The Green University Award, an initiative by Green Mentors, recognizes global universities that have incorporated eco-consciousness and sustainability into their fundamental principles, operations, and academic offerings, fostering community and student engagement. These institutions are acknowledged for their implementation of sustainable practices, including energy-efficient infrastructure, renewable energy solutions, waste reduction and recycling programs, and initiatives promoting sustainable transportation.

Green mentors identify the universities who prepare their students to tackle the complex environmental challenges through curriculum and initiatives.