The Green Pencil Foundation continued its youth-driven climate movement by organising the Campus Climate Vartaleap at Government Senior Secondary School, Sector 3, Faridabad. The initiative, supported by Commutiny the youth collective and Vartaleap, is part of the Foundation’s broader effort to empower students as changemakers in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation.
The event was led by Mr. Sandy Khanda, Founder of the Green Pencil Foundation, as part of his Changeloom Youth Leaders in Climate Actions journey. The Campus Climate Vartaleap encourages students to move “from intention to action”, transforming climate awareness into real, measurable steps within their schools and communities.
A total of 64 students participated in the session, actively engaging in open dialogue with their teachers and school leadership. The discussions revolved around air pollution, waste segregation, water conservation, and sustainable lifestyle practices, with students contributing ideas to make their campus greener and more climate-resilient.
Ms. Seema Gautam, Principal of Government Senior Secondary School, Sector 3, appreciated the initiative and commended the Green Pencil Foundation for bringing such meaningful and action-oriented programs to schools. She emphasized that youth participation and environmental education are key to shaping responsible future citizens and building climate-conscious communities.
Faridabad’s Environmental Context
Air Pollution: Faridabad continues to rank among Haryana’s most polluted cities, with average AQI levels ranging between Moderate and Poor, driven by vehicular emissions and industrial pollutants.
Waste Generation: The city produces nearly 900 tonnes of solid waste daily, but less than 10% is processed effectively, highlighting the importance of waste segregation and recycling at the grassroots level.
Water Scarcity: As per the Haryana Water Resources Authority, Faridabad faces declining groundwater levels, reinforcing the need for water conservation and rainwater harvesting awareness among students.
Impact and Way Forward
The Green Pencil Foundation plans to organise the Campus Climate Vartaleap across 12 schools and colleges in Faridabad and Delhi NCR to build a generation of environmentally aware and proactive youth leaders.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Sandy Khanda remarked,
“Climate action begins with awareness and ownership. When students start discussing their environment and take small steps, it triggers a powerful chain reaction across families and communities.”
Through initiatives like Campus Climate Vartaleap, the Green Pencil Foundation continues to advance its mission of sustainability education, youth empowerment, and climate leadership, fostering a culture of responsibility and environmental stewardship at the grassroots level.
