Manipal University campuses observes Earth Hour

For the first time, Manipal Universities across the country will be observing Earth Hour tomorrow. Campuses in Manipal, Jaipur and Sikkim will be switching off all the lights on their campuses to raise awareness of climate change.

Manipal University, Manipal campus is ISO 9001:2008 certified, as well as 14001:2004 compliant, which is a series of voluntary standards on Quality and Environmental Management Systems (EMS) by ISO. Manipal University's clearly - formulated Environment Management System earned them the EMS certification in 2008 and they have been setting a benchmark for environmental awareness amongst educational institutions.

This is one of the many green initiatives taken up by the University. Manipal University, Manipal is also a No Smoking Campus, and vehicles are not allowed to enter campus without a 'Pollution Under Control' certificate. The University also practices solid waste management, water management, air quality management and energy management. As an institution, Manipal University is committed towards not only complying with but exceeding the current environmental laws, regulations and standards. This led to Manipal University being awarded The Golden Peacock Environment Management Award 2014.

Commenting on this initiative, Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Registrar of Manipal University said, "We think it is important to lead by example. By participating in Earth Hour we are not only raising awareness about climate change, but we are also motivating our students to adopt green practices in their lives."

"Observing Earth Hour is a small example of our abiding commitment to the environment," said Dr Sandeep Sancheti, President of Manipal University, Jaipur. " Our campus was the first University in the country to be awarded a five-star rating by GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment), and it has LEED Platinum rating as well," he added.

"Sikkim is India's green, clean and the only organic state, and we are proud to take part in this initiative to raise awareness about the environment," said Brig (Dr) Somnath Mishra, Vice chancellor of Sikkim Manipal University.