To mark World Environment Day, the Faculty of Legal Sciences at Shoolini University held a tree plantation drive in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Solan. Organised by the university’s Legal Aid Club, the event highlighted practical action against environmental challenges, in line with this year’s global theme, ‘Putting an End to Plastic Pollution’.
Over 100 saplings were planted in and around the campus as students, faculty, and staff pledged to reduce plastic usage and support a cleaner, greener environment.
Founder Chancellor Prof PK Khosla, who joined the event as chief guest, recalled his participation in the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm. He spoke about the long-standing need for sustainable thinking and shared that Shoolini University has installed 400 handmade Himachali kiltas (traditional bamboo baskets) as eco-friendly dustbins across the campus.
Prof JM Julka, Director of Planning and a well-known zoologist, planted a Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) to commemorate the World Environment Day. He urged the university community to cut down on plastic use to preserve biodiversity. Brig. Sunil Dutt Mehta (retd), Director of Operations, planted a Deodar (Cedrus deodara) and shared that Shoolini has already planted over 10,000 trees in and around Solan as part of its ongoing environmental efforts.
Prof Nandan Sharma, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Legal Sciences, said the plantation drive was one of many campus initiatives focused on sustainability and responsible living.
Everyday Sustainability in Action at Shoolini
- Plastic Ban: Shoolini has banned plastic bottles and single-use plastic items on campus to reduce plastic waste.
- Reusable Alternatives: Students and staff are encouraged to use steel, ceramic, and biodegradable items for daily use.
- Canteens and Food Joints: All campus eateries have switched from plastic straws and cutlery to reusable steel or ceramic options.
- Awareness and Action: Sustainability is promoted through campaigns, events, and active student involvement.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Shoolini University partners with organisations like the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), HIMCOSTE (Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology & Environment), and the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department to promote environmental awareness, training, and conservation initiatives.
- Sustainable Practices: Shoolini University uses solar panels to power large parts of its campus, reducing dependence on conventional energy. It has implemented rainwater harvesting systems across academic and residential blocks. Solid waste is segregated at source, and biodegradable waste is composted within campus facilities. Additionally, water from sewage treatment plants is recycled for horticulture.
From policy to practice, Shoolini University continues to integrate sustainability into everyday campus life.
June 5, 2025
