- By News Desk
- Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JNM
In a landmark step toward sustainable education, the Green Pencil Foundation, in collaboration with Jagran Connect, community platform of Jagran.com, has inaugurated Faridabad's first Eco-Friendly Library. This pioneering initiative will directly benefit 2,240 students across four government schools.
This project, which provides students with climate-resilient educational spaces and resources, has received strong support from the Haryana Education Department, District Administration Faridabad, and the District Education Officer (DEO) Faridabad.
An Innovative Approach to Learning
The new library is more than just a place for books; it's a model of sustainable infrastructure. The space features:
Solar-powered lighting to reduce energy consumption.
Bamboo furniture as a sustainable alternative to traditional materials.
Vertical gardens made from recycled plastic bottles collected by the students themselves.
In addition to its green infrastructure, the library includes book banks, digital learning corners, and sanitary pad vending machines, underscoring a commitment to both environmental and gender inclusion.
"Our vision is to empower students with knowledge while nurturing environmental responsibility," said Mr. Sandy Khanda, Founder of the Green Pencil Foundation. "Libraries are not just for reading—they are centers for shaping informed and eco-conscious citizens."
Community and Media Partnership
The project's reach was amplified through strategic partnerships. Jagran Connect served as the media partner, ensuring the message of sustainability reached a broad audience. Radio Manav Rachna acted as the radio partner, further spreading awareness throughout the community.
A Project Aligned with National Goals
This initiative is a powerful example of how local action can support larger national and global objectives. The Eco-Friendly Library project aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Furthermore, it complements key Government of India initiatives such as the Viksit Bharat 2047 Vision, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
Looking ahead, the Green Pencil Foundation plans to expand the project to additional government schools in Faridabad. The goal is to make sustainable education a core part of the learning experience for thousands more students across the region.