Mahatma Gandhi University has been selected for the Biodiversity Conservation Award, recognising its exemplary and innovative models in environmental protection. The Kerala State Biodiversity Board chose MGU as the best institution for biodiversity conservation among government, cooperative, and public sector organisations.

Nestled under the shade of diverse plant species, the MGU campus operates in a fully eco-friendly manner. It stands out with pioneering initiatives like the Nirmalam MGU Green Protocol, which transforms organic waste and dry leaves into value-added products. Additionally, the installation of biogas plants and solar energy units further exemplifies the university’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

Since 2008, a 12-acre area on campus has been preserved as the ‘Jeevaka Live Laboratory’, featuring an organic farm, a medicinal plant garden, a Miyawaki forest, a fruit tree garden, the Bhoomitra Sena Club, and a club for environmental science students. A QR code system has also been introduced to help students and visitors learn more about the trees on campus.

Faculty, students, and staff actively engage in biodiversity conservation activities. The university’s efforts to control invasive plant species, contribute to biodiversity policy-making in both governmental and non-governmental sectors, and participate in post-flood disaster mitigation studies have also significantly contributed to this recognition. Many of these initiatives are led by the School of Environmental Sciences.

“This award is a great encouragement for us to step forward with even greater commitment in the field of biodiversity conservation,” said Vice Chancellor Dr. C.T. Aravindakumar.