Bharat Mata School Becomes First in India to Receive UN's Green Flag

Chhattisgarh, December 6, 2024: Bharat Mata English Medium School in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, made history by becoming the first school in India to be awarded the prestigious Green Flag by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The recognition was granted at the International Conference on Sustainable Education held at the Indian Habitat Centre in New Delhi, where 28 countries participated. The school earned this accolade for its outstanding contributions to environmental conservation, climate literacy, and its success in global eco-initiatives.

The school’s Eco Club led transformative efforts, such as the Badlaav Campaign, aiming to make 25,000 children climate literate. The campaign involved peer-to-peer training on "Bagless Day", an innovative approach that continues to inspire sustainable practices. On September 16, the students showcased their impact by reducing 987 kg of CO2 emissions, further solidifying their commitment to combating climate change.

The UNFCCC acknowledged the school’s achievements, including securing second place globally in the Made to Move Communities (MTMC) competition for the 2023-24 session. Principal Fr. Saleen P. and teachers Pa Nu Haldar, Poonam Singh and others represented the school at the conference, highlighting its role in linking education with sustainable development goals.

This landmark achievement sets a benchmark for Indian schools to integrate climate education into their curriculum and underscores the vital role of youth in addressing global environmental challenges.

By Fr. Saleen P