As pollution levels increase and global warming worsens, the world faces challenges threatening the foundation of life on Earth. Humans have exploited the planet’s resources for years, ignoring the consequences of their actions. However, we have now realised that the only way to heal our planet is by giving back to the environment. This gradual process requires a collective effort to create sustainable initiatives.
As more people, organisations, and institutions adopt sustainable options, we see positive changes. At Shoolini University, these sustainability initiatives make a real difference—helping reduce pollution, conserving resources, and creating a cleaner, greener campus. From eco-friendly infrastructure to green campus initiatives, the university is deftly balancing education and nature.
Explore how Shoolini is at the forefront as an eco-friendly university in India. But first, let’s understand how India is leading the charge towards sustainability.
India’s Journey Towards Sustainability
Sustainability runs deep in Indian culture. We, the Indians, have long practised reusing old items, conserving resources, and living in harmony with nature. These habits are a big part of how we live. The idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (One World, One Family) has shaped Indian thinking for ages. This has led to eco-friendly customs like drying clothes in the sun, using buckets for bathing to conserve water, and turning food scraps into fertiliser.
India, now the world’s most populated nation, deals with major environmental issues. The quick growth of cities, shifts in climate, and pollution have made sustainability a top concern here. The government and businesses in India are taking new sustainability initiatives for a better future. These efforts range from government programs to corporate strategies for making the country environment-friendly.
Government-Led Sustainability Initiatives
India has launched numerous programs to deal with environmental issues and promote sustainability:
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Movement): This campaign was launched by the Government of India on 2nd October 2014. The aim was to improve sanitation and eliminate open defecation.
- Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the scheme on 1st May 2016. It provided clean cooking fuel to rural households to reduce indoor air pollution, improving the health of women and children by reducing emissions.
- Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) Campaign: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched this campaign at the UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow (COP26). It encourages people to adopt sustainable habits, from saving energy to reducing waste.
- Ban on Single-Use Plastics: India has adopted several measures to control plastic pollution, such as banning plastic bags and promoting eco-friendly bags.
- New PM E-DRIVE Scheme: The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) is a new electric vehicle (EV) subsidy scheme giving ₹10,000 for each electric 2-wheeler sold till March 2025 and ₹50,000 for electric 3-wheelers. The scheme is for electric 2-wheelers, electric 3-wheelers, e-ambulances, e-trucks. as well as other emerging EVs. This government initiative will reduce fossil fuel dependency and cut air pollution.
- Energy Conservation through Smart Ratings: The idea revolves around giving smart ratings to electrical appliances to promote energy efficiency, helping consumers make informed, eco-friendly choices.
Interesting Achievements:
- In the year 2022 Climate Change Performance Index, India ranked among the top five performing countries for climate action.
- India is the fastest-growing renewable energy market globally, advancing towards meeting its energy needs through sustainable sources.
Looking Ahead
While India’s sustainability journey has seen significant progress, the challenges of population growth, urbanisation, and climate change persist. The efforts of the government, businesses, and citizens must continue to align for a greener, healthier future. Together, we can ensure that India not only preserves its rich traditions of sustainable living but also leads the global fight against environmental degradation.
For a greener India, the youth of the country must come forward and take on the mantle of preserving and conserving Mother Earth. The most important part here is cultivating this thought among the 21st-century children. This is where schools, colleges and universities come into play.
Read on to learn how Shoolini University is leading the way towards sustainability by adopting innovative initiatives and practices on the campus.
The Future is Green: Join Shoolini University’s Sustainability Journey
Shoolini University, located in the serene and pristine Himalayan foothills of Himachal Pradesh, is a forward-thinking institution that has implemented a range of sustainability initiatives that align with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Global Recognition for Sustainability
Shoolini University has achieved remarkable recognition in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, the only global performance tables assessing universities’ contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Shoolini secured a spot in the 101-200 band and was ranked the 2nd best university in India for making a positive impact on society and the environment.
The university excelled in several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ranking 2nd in the world for SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, 5th globally for SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, and 35th worldwide for SDG 13: Climate Action. It also ranks in the 101-200 band for SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, and is placed in the 601-800 band for SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
In the QS Sustainability Rankings 2025, Shoolini is ranked 566th globally, 136th in Asia for sustainability, and 5th among private universities in India.
Environmental Conservation and Water Management
With innovative rainwater harvesting systems and Swachhta Abhiyan initiatives, the university is leading the way in promoting responsible water usage and environmental conservation. To conserve water, the university uses rainwater to keep the surroundings clean. Additionally, it operates two state-of-the-art Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) with capacities of 550 KLD and 400 KLD. These STPs recycle wastewater for the use of treated water in gardening, horticulture and construction.
Clean Energy and Reducing Carbon Footprint
The university strongly emphasises clean energy initiatives to minimise its carbon footprint. The rooftops and the parking area have Solar Photovoltaic panels to meet energy requirements. Shoolini also has eco-friendly huts at the Yogananda Ville that use mud and wood for natural insulation.
Community Engagement and Sustainability Awareness
Shoolini University engages the local community in its sustainability initiatives. Activities such as cleanliness drives, yoga camps, and workshops on water conservation raise awareness about health and environmental issues. Partnerships with organisations like the Ladli Foundation Trust and ICIMOD strengthen its community-oriented programs. These initiatives support the campus and promote sustainable practices in the neighbouring areas.
Partnerships and Contributions to SDGs
The university promotes projects and policies related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Collaborations with the National Biodiversity Authority and the Himachal Pradesh government tackle issues such as environmental sustainability, gender equality, and health. The university also worked with the Association of Indian Universities to co-publish a document titled Building a Sustainable Future – How Universities Can Help Implement SDG Goals, which reflects its commitment to sustainability.
Research in Clean Energy and Biodiversity
Research and innovation are at the core of Shoolini University’s sustainability mission. With a Cite Score of 38.9% for publications in top-tier journals, the university drives impactful research in clean energy and environmental solutions. Its location in the Himalayas provides a perfect setting for studying biodiversity and exploring Himachal Pradesh’s rich heritage of medicinal plants. The university’s Cancer Research Centre focuses on harnessing the potential of these plants to develop innovative treatments for chronic diseases, including cancer.
Through its efforts in sustainability, research, and community engagement, Shoolini University sets a benchmark for how educational institutions can contribute to global environmental goals while making a tangible difference in the world.
Shoolini teaches students the importance of sustainability for a greener tomorrow. They take up social projects as part of their curriculum and organise events based on sustainable practices. During Daan Utsav, students sell eco-friendly bags to promote eco-friendly bags. Apart from this, the NSS team at Shoolini also organise cleanliness drives near Shoolini every Saturday. During university fests like Moksh, students also reuse substances for decoration.
All these efforts are made with the concept of sustainability in mind. Therefore, we can say that Shoolini follows the best green campus practices in India.
Did you know that Shoolini is also the No.1 Private University in India, ranked by the Times Higher Education (THE) and QS World University Rankings. The university also has eco-friendly infrastructure on campus, such as the Cancer Research Centre, Yogananda Ville, Tagore School of Design, e-studios, and more. The eco-friendly dustbins throughout the campus separate for both biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes.
Conclusion
Shoolini University is an example of how institutions can take meaningful steps toward building a sustainable future. With its eco-friendly campus, innovative research, and sustainable initiatives, the university is creating a positive effect on environmental change for a greener and better tomorrow. From renewable energy solutions to water conservation and waste management initiatives, every effort reflects a deep commitment to global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
