Tag: Eco-Friendly

EduConnect

ATAL Nirnay – Goa Codes 2026: CARES Leads Goa’s Green Innovation Movement

Tanisha Cardozo

“ATAL Nirnay – Goa Codes 2026” has emerged as a significant student-driven initiative aimed at addressing pressing environmental challenges in the State, particularly those related to pollution and waste management. Conceptualised with the philosophy that meaningful change begins with responsible individual decisions, the competition encourages students from Classes VI to IX to actively participate in environmental transformation through innovation, technology, awareness and community engagement.

The 28-day structured challenge commenced on February 2, 2026, with statewide orientation sessions for Heads of Institutions. The format recognises that building sustainable habits requires consistent effort, encouraging long-term waste segregation practices, environmental accountability and community awareness rather than one-day activities. The focus extends beyond participation to nurturing lasting environmental values among students.

The competition integrates eco-awareness, robotics and innovation through five structured events: the Smart Waste Solution Challenge, Garbage Awareness Campaign from Home to Community, Clean Goa Action Drive, Digital Awareness Campaign, and Study and Documentation. Students identify real waste management challenges, design innovative models and prototypes using Robotics Hardware Kits provided under the CARES scheme, conduct awareness initiatives and document measurable environmental impact.

The initiative is organised by the Project Management Unit under the CARES Scheme of the Directorate of Technical Education Goa, in association with Goa Waste Management Corporation. A total of 688 teams from schools across Goa have registered, reflecting widespread participation and enthusiasm. GWMC is facilitating infrastructure for waste collection during cleanliness drives and will coordinate on identified “Black Spots” where waste frequently accumulates, ensuring student activities connect directly with governance mechanisms.

Mentorship support is being provided by Teach for Goa Fellows, who are guiding schools with technical assistance and coordination. Teachers and students have been trained in the use of Robotics Hardware Kits to develop practical eco-tech solutions, effectively blending environmental awareness with technological skill development.

Attractive cash prizes have been announced to encourage active participation. State-level winners will receive ₹50,000 for first place, ₹40,000 for second place and ₹30,000 for third place, with additional consolation and taluka-level awards. The prize money will be awarded to the respective schools.

ATAL Nirnay represents a grassroots movement aimed at fostering positivity and cleanliness across Goa, beginning from homes, classrooms and neighbourhoods. By reinforcing the idea that small individual actions can generate extraordinary community impact, the initiative aspires to cultivate a culture of sustainability, responsibility and innovation across the State.

International

Dubai’s Smart Palms: Blending Technology, Sustainability & Comfort

allycaralgoa

Dubai, a city renowned for its futuristic vision, has once again redefined urban innovation with the introduction of Smart Palms—solar-powered trees designed to merge comfort, connectivity, and sustainability. 🌤️🌴

These high-tech structures harvest solar energy during the day and store it, enabling 24/7 functionality. Each Smart Palm offers a wide range of services:

  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi for residents and tourists
  • Multiple charging ports for phones, tablets, and devices
  • Eco-friendly LED lighting that reduces carbon footprint
  • Interactive digital information screens for navigation and city updates
  • Shaded resting spots to beat the desert heat

Strategically located across Dubai’s beaches, parks, and public spaces, Smart Palms serve not just as a utility but also as a symbol of the city’s commitment to green energy and smart infrastructure.

By integrating renewable energy into daily life, Dubai demonstrates how cities can adopt eco-friendly solutions while offering world-class amenities. The Smart Palm stands tall as both a technological marvel and a sustainability icon.

EduConnect

Ek Rakhi Ped Ke Naam: A Green Raksha Bandhan Celebration by Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar High School

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

In a world increasingly burdened by environmental challenges, Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar High School took a refreshing step towards sustainability — all through a festival deeply rooted in Indian tradition. This year’s Raksha Bandhan was not just about the bond between siblings but also about a heartfelt connection between humans and nature.

In a unique initiative titled “Ek Rakhi Ped Ke Naam”, students crafted biodegradable rakhis using natural materials such as leaves, flowers, banana stems, creepers, and coconut threads. These were not just decorative bands — they symbolized a pledge of protection, not for a sibling, but for the trees and plants around them.

Under the shade of trees and amidst the sounds of rustling leaves, students tied these rakhis to plants in the school garden. Along with this symbolic act, they took an oath to nurture and protect the environment, turning the celebration into a powerful eco-message.

This initiative did more than mark a festival. It encouraged children to reflect on their role as caretakers of the planet, showcasing how traditional values can harmoniously align with environmental responsibility.

By blending culture, creativity, and climate consciousness, Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar High School has set an inspiring example for schools and communities across the country.

Let this be a reminder:
🌱 Every tree we tie a rakhi to… is a promise to a greener future. 🌍

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Andhra Pradesh CM Announces Statewide Ban on Single-Use Plastic in 17 Cities from October 2

allycaralgoa

Amaravati, June 18, 2025 – In a decisive move towards environmental sustainability, the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh has announced a complete ban on single-use plastic across 17 major cities in the state, effective from October 2, 2025—marking the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and symbolizing a renewed commitment to Swachh Bharat and environmental responsibility.

The decision was unveiled during a high-level review meeting on urban development and solid waste management, where the Chief Minister emphasized the urgent need to combat plastic pollution and reduce its harmful impact on health, ecosystems, and marine life.

Cities Covered Under the Ban

The ban will be enforced in the following 17 municipal corporations and key urban centers:

  1. Visakhapatnam
  2. Vijayawada
  3. Guntur
  4. Nellore
  5. Kurnool
  6. Kadapa
  7. Rajahmundry
  8. Kakinada
  9. Tirupati
  10. Anantapur
  11. Ongole
  12. Eluru
  13. Srikakulam
  14. Vizianagaram
  15. Chittoor
  16. Machilipatnam
  17. Bhimavaram

These cities have been prioritized due to their high population density and significant plastic waste generation.

Scope of the Ban

The ban targets commonly used single-use plastic items, including:

  • Plastic carry bags (irrespective of thickness)
  • Plastic cutlery (spoons, forks, knives)
  • Straws and stirrers
  • Plastic plates, cups, and glasses
  • Wrapping films and sachets used for packaging
  • Thermocol (polystyrene) items

The government has also directed municipal bodies to coordinate with manufacturers, retailers, food vendors, and consumers to ensure smooth phasing out of plastic alternatives and promote eco-friendly substitutes like cloth bags, jute bags, paper packaging, and biodegradable products.

Implementation & Penalties

Dedicated enforcement teams will be deployed in each city to monitor compliance. Offenders may face:

  • Fines for possession and distribution of banned items
  • Seizure of goods
  • Cancellation of business licenses for repeated violations

To support the transition, awareness campaigns and training programs for vendors and citizens will be launched over the next few months.

Chief Minister’s Statement

“This is not just an environmental reform—this is a social mission,” said the Chief Minister. “Plastic is choking our drains, polluting our rivers, and damaging our soil. By banning single-use plastic, we are not only protecting our environment but also creating a sustainable future for the next generation. Andhra Pradesh will lead the way in green governance.”

Public Engagement and Alternatives

The state government will work with local NGOs, schools, RWAs (Resident Welfare Associations), and self-help groups to promote reusable products and foster a plastic-free culture through community drives and plastic collection campaigns. Bulk procurement and subsidized distribution of cloth bags are also on the agenda.

Conclusion:
As India strives towards its climate and sustainability goals, Andhra Pradesh’s bold step to ban single-use plastics in urban centers could serve as a model for other states. The state’s efforts to combine policy enforcement with citizen participation mark a significant milestone in India’s environmental journey.

EduConnect

PM SHRI GHS Morpirla Celebrates Earth Day with Enthusiasm and Dedication

allycaralgoa

On April 22, 2025, PM SHRI Government High School (GHS) Morpirla celebrated Earth Day with great enthusiasm and dedication. The event was held on the theme “Our Power Our Planet,” aiming to raise awareness about environmental conservation and promote sustainable practices among students.


The celebration featured a range of innovative activities designed to engage students and promote learning. Some of the highlights included:

  • QR Code for Flora: The school created a QR code for the flora in the school, providing students with information about the various plants on scanning the code. This interactive approach helped students learn about the different plant species and their importance in the ecosystem.
  • Floral Headgears and Tiaras: Students showcased their creativity by making innovative headgears and tiaras using floral materials. This activity not only encouraged artistic expression but also promoted the use of natural materials.
  • Rally on Environmental Conservation: Students participated in a rally that emphasized the importance of environmental conservation. The rally helped students develop a sense of responsibility towards protecting the planet and encouraged them to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.


The Earth Day celebration at PM SHRI GHS Morpirla was a huge success, with students and teachers actively participating in the various activities. The event encouraged students to think critically about their role in protecting the planet and motivated them to make a positive impact on the environment.


The celebration served as a reminder of the importance of promoting sustainable practices in our daily lives. By adopting eco-friendly habits and reducing our carbon footprint, we can contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.


The Earth Day celebration at PM SHRI GHS Morpirla was a resounding success, thanks to the enthusiasm and dedication of the students and teachers. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and the need to promote sustainable practices in our daily lives.