MAHENDERGARH, 07.06.25-The Department of Environmental Studies, Central University of Haryana (CUH), Mahendergarh, in collaboration with the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB), Regional Office Mahendergarh, commemorated World Environment Day 2025 with a dedicated event on the global theme “Ending Plastic Pollution.” Prof. Tankeshwar Kumar, Vice Chancellor of CUH, praised the department’s proactive role and urged students and faculty to take greater environmental responsibility. He emphasized the importance of eliminating single-use plastics through integrated and inclusive approaches.
Prof. Dinesh Gupta, Dean, School of Interdisciplinary and Applied Sciences (SIAS), encouraged the academic community to lead the way in reducing plastic dependency through awareness and behavioral change.
The program commenced with an inaugural address by Dr. Anita Singh, Head of the Department of Environmental Studies, who set the tone for the day by highlighting the urgent need for coordinated efforts to tackle plastic pollution at all levels. The event featured a series of expert talks from academia, industry, and government.
Prof. Bhupendra Singh, Department of Environmental Studies, BPS Mahila Vishwavidyalaya, delivered the keynote address. He elaborated on the pervasive nature of plastic pollution and its serious consequences for both human health and environmental integrity. He also outlined policy and academic responses necessary for managing plastic waste effectively.
Dr. Punita Sharma, Co-founder of KeetUp Industries, emphasized the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in offering sustainable alternatives to plastics. She discussed practical strategies for food waste management and underlined the importance of circular economy solutions. Mr. Dipesh Kalher, Assistant Environmental Engineer, HSPCB Mahendergarh, spoke about regulatory mechanisms and local initiatives undertaken by the government to curb plastic pollution. He also highlighted national-level environmental programs such as Mission LiFE and India’s Net-Zero Emission Commitments, reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable development.
The formal session was followed by a plantation drive, organized by the Department of Environmental Studies. Faculty members, students, and officials participated actively, demonstrating the university’s commitment to a greener future. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Anoop Yadav, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Studies, who acknowledged the contributions of all speakers, participants, and collaborators for making the event a success.