By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 15 Dec: As many as 16 Institutions, 35 Schools, over 1,400 Students, 2 Months, and 4,500+ Climate Actions – The remarkable journey of Ecolympics and Green Gurukul 2024 has demonstrated the transformative power of youth-led environmental initiatives across Dehradun. From inspiring awareness campaigns to innovative waste management practices, the collective efforts of students have left a tangible mark on sustainability in the region. These competitions were organised by Waste Warriors as part of their youth activation model YUWA (Youth United for Waste & Climate Actions).
The journey culminated in a grand closing ceremony today at the IRDT Auditorium, Survey Chowk, bringing together over 300 youth to celebrate the achievements as part of these competitions. Among those present were Dr SP Subudhi, IFS, Director of the State Environment Conservation and Climate Change Directorate, Uttarakhand, and Gauri Prabhat, SDM, Kalsi.
During the ceremony, the top-performing institutions were felicitated by the chief guests. Doon International School bagged 1st position, followed by KV ONGC in 2nd and The Doon Girls School occupying the 3rd position in Green Gurukul 2024.
Graphic Era Hill University secured the top spot in Ecolympics 2024, followed by IMS Unison University and Sri Dev Bhoomi Institute of Education Science and Technology (SDBIT) occupying the podium places.
The ceremony also featured vibrant performances that added energy and inspiration to the event. A Nukkad Natak performed by students of the Purkal Youth Development Society, developed during Green Gurukul, captivated the audience. Another highlight was the Trashion Walk, in which participants wore costumes creatively designed from waste materials, turning trash into stylish, reusable fashion. These artistic displays underscored the potential for waste to be repurposed into something valuable.
These competitions witnessed outstanding contributions by the youth of Dehradun through initiatives like Green Art, Recycle Rap, Community Clean-Up Drives, and Awareness campaigns. Their efforts collectively resulted in more than 4,500 waste and climate actions diverting over 3000 kilograms of waste from landfills.
Mayank Sharma, Director, Waste Warriors, highlighted the growing impact of Project YUWA, stating, “Since its launch in 2023, Project YUWA has empowered young people to transform their environmental sensitivity into meaningful action. This year, youth have initiated over 4,500 waste and climate actions, mobilised hundreds of volunteers, and led impactful community initiatives. YUWA has not only inspired pro-environment actions but has also provided valuable learning opportunities for youth through internships and volunteer roles. This movement showcases the immense potential of youth as proactive changemakers leading us towards a greener, more sustainable future.”
Dr SP Subudhi, IFS, remarked on the significance of the initiative, stating, “Project YUWA is a commendable platform that empowers youth to actively engage in environmental conservation and climate action. The passion and leadership demonstrated by the participants are truly inspiring and crucial for building a sustainable future.”
Adding to this, SDM Gauri Prabhat described the initiative as “a remarkable effort that harnesses the energy and creativity of youth to drive meaningful environmental change. It is heartening to witness the positive impact these young leaders are creating in their communities.” She also praised the youth, saying, “Project YUWA demonstrates how the next generation is stepping forward to address critical environmental challenges. Their efforts inspire hope for a greener and more sustainable tomorrow.”
Project YUWA (Youth United for Waste and Climate Action) is a youth activation initiative being implemented by Waste Warriors in the city of Dehradun. Through this initiative, Waste Warriors seeks to empower and enable youth to take pro-environment actions and form a self-reliant youth-driven community of future changemakers working towards mitigating Waste Management issues and climate change.
The closing ceremony served as both a celebration of achievements and a call to action, leaving participants inspired to continue their efforts in building a greener future.
Naveen Kumar Sadana, Bhasker Pitchai, Mayank Sharma, Adison Stevenson, Niraj Bhatia, Yuvraj Singh, Avadesh Pundir, Oceanika Bhatt, Saurabh Chaudhary and others from Waste Warriors helped conduct the ceremony.
