The Government Law College, Ernakulam, has launched an initiative to convert biodegradable waste generated on its campus into organic fertilizer, highlighting the role of educational institutions in promoting sustainable waste management and environmental responsibility.
The initiative, undertaken by the college’s National Service Scheme (NSS) unit, has resulted in the production of organic fertilizer under the brand name ‘Green Grow’.
Campus Waste Converted into Organic Fertilizer
As part of the initiative, two bio-composting bins with a capacity of 1,000 kilograms each have been installed on the college campus with the support of the Haritha Keralam Mission and Indian Oil Corporation.
Biodegradable waste, including food waste generated on the campus, is collected and processed in the composting units with the addition of an inoculum. The process takes approximately 45 days, after which the waste is converted into organic fertilizer.
The ‘Green Grow’ fertilizer is being sold at ₹30 per kilogram, with the college’s NSS unit responsible for managing and maintaining the initiative.
Focus on Sustainable Waste Management
The initiative reflects an effort to implement sustainable waste-management practices within an educational institution. By treating biodegradable waste at the source and converting it into a useful product, the project aims to reduce waste generation while encouraging environmentally responsible practices among students.
From a broader environmental governance perspective, initiatives of this nature support the principles of waste segregation, decentralised waste processing, resource recovery and sustainable waste management.
Inauguration of the Initiative
The distribution of the organic fertilizer was inaugurated by T. J. Vinod MLA on August 18. College Principal Dr. V. C. Bindumol presided over the function. Corporation Standing Committee Chairperson Seena Gokulan unveiled the project logo, while Division Councillor K. V. P. Krishnakumar carried out the first distribution.
The initiative demonstrates how institutions can integrate environmental responsibility into campus activities while providing students with practical exposure to sustainable practices.
