The Green Pencil Foundation successfully organized a Campus Climate Vartaleap at Government Senior Secondary School, Sector 12A, Gurugram, supported by Commutiny – The Youth Collective (CYC). The event aimed to inspire young minds to move from intention to action on issues related to climate change and environmental protection.
Renowned environmental activist Mr. Sunil Harsana, who has been working extensively in South Haryana to protect the Aravalli Hills and runs the Mangar Eco Club, joined the event as the Chief Guest. His insightful address encouraged students to actively participate in conserving biodiversity and protecting forest ecosystems. The School Principal extended a warm welcome and appreciated the Foundation’s efforts in nurturing environmental consciousness among students.
The session was led by Mr. Sandy Khanda, Founder of the Green Pencil Foundation, along with Aakash Mahato, Neha, and Divyansh Gandhi as facilitators. Mr. Khanda emphasized the importance of transforming climate awareness into community-led actions, urging students to adopt sustainable habits in daily life — such as reducing single-use plastics, conserving water, and planting trees.
During the interaction, students discussed the local challenges of Gurugram, including rising air pollution levels, declining green cover, and groundwater depletion. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Gurugram frequently records an Air Quality Index (AQI) between 250–300, categorizing it as ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’. Additionally, the Aravalli range, which acts as a green lung for the region, has witnessed significant degradation due to encroachments and deforestation.
The Green Pencil Foundation’s Campus Climate Vartaleap initiative is designed to engage youth in meaningful dialogues that lead to real environmental solutions. It aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
Speaking at the event, Mr. Khanda highlighted, “Climate action is no longer a choice; it is a responsibility. Every young individual has the power to become a changemaker and protect our shared planet.”
The Foundation plans to organize similar Campus Climate Vartaleaps across schools and colleges in Delhi-NCR to create a youth-led environmental movement and promote sustainable living at the grassroots level.
