Context:

• The state of Punjab has recently garnered national acclaim by winning the Best State Award in the Centre for Science and Environment's (CSE) Green Schools Programme (GSP) for 2024.

Key Points:

• This prestigious accolade highlights the state's unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and also sets a benchmark for educational institutions across India.
• The recognition comes as a result of Punjab's proactive measures in integrating environmental education into the school curriculum and fostering a culture of sustainability among students and educators alike.
• The Green Schools Programme, initiated by the CSE nearly two decades ago, aims to instill environmental consciousness within school communities.
• The 2024 edition of the GSP witnessed an unprecedented level of engagement, with over 5,300 schools from 29 states and Union territories participating in a comprehensive environmental audit. This initiative serves as a platform for schools to assess their environmental impact and implement sustainable practices.

The scale of participation in the GSP is indicative of the growing awareness and commitment towards environmental education in Punjab. Key statistics from the program include:

• Total school registrations: Initially, 7,200 schools registered for the program.
• Audit Report submissions: Out of these, 4,734 schools submitted detailed green audit reports, showcasing their environmental practices and initiatives.
• Green School Certifications: A remarkable 70 schools from Punjab received the coveted 'green' rating, which signifies their adherence to sustainable practices.
• Percentage of National Green Schools: Schools from Punjab constitute 35% of the 199 nationally recognized green schools, underscoring the state's leadership in this domain.

Evaluation criteria

The Green School certification is based on a rigorous assessment across six key environmental domains:

1. Air quality
2. Energy conservation
3. Food practices
4. Land management
5. Water conservation
6. Waste management

These criteria ensure that schools not only focus on theoretical knowledge but also engage in practical measures that contribute to environmental sustainability.

Notable Green School characteristics

Schools that achieved the 'green' rating exhibited several commendable practices, including:

• Adoption of sustainable transport modes
• Implementation of energy-efficient lighting systems
• Development of green campus cover
• Installation of rainwater harvesting systems
• Effective waste segregation and recycling practices
• Promotion of healthy food policies