MANGALURU: In an attempt to reduce carbon footprints and promote sustainability, probably for the first time, a college in Mangaluru observed zero vehicle day on the occasion of Environmental Health Day on Tuesday. Only electric vehicles and bicycles were allowed to enter the college campus.
Froidy Fernandes, assistant professor, department of botany, St Agnes College told TOI that the institution came up with the idea of ditching two, four-wheelers, and others for a day. The Zero Vehicle Day was organized by the Nature Club at St Agnes College in collaboration with St Agnes Higher Primary School, St Agnes CBSE School, St Agnes High School and St Agnes Pre-University College to make a significant impact in protecting our environment, said Froidy.
It was also an attempt to raise awareness about global warming and climate change and combat daily carbon emissions.
“Being the first of its kind, all the students, staff, and parents showed great interest and participated in this cause of lowering carbon emissions to keep the campus free from noise and air pollution and in promoting the usage of public transport. As no vehicles were allowed inside the gate, Nature Club members helped schoolchildren move into the campus in the morning and in the evening,” said Froidy.
The day was inaugurated with the electric vehicles moving into the campus, followed by dignitaries and students marching inside. Sr Maria Roopa, joint secretary of St Agnes Institutions; Sr Venissa, principal; and others were present. Sai Tanvi, secretary of Nature Club, spoke about the importance of the day.