A NATIONAL COMPETITION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

 

United Schools Organisation of India (USO), in collaboration with United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization(UNESCO) New Delhi, is thrilled to launch Biosphere Reserve Champions, a nationwide competition aimed at engaging students from Std. 6-12 in the protection and sustainable management of Biosphere Reserves.

This groundbreaking initiative is designed to raise awareness about critical environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, while empowering young people to take meaningful action within their communities.

The competition aligns with several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

A Three-Phase Journey for Change

The competition is structured into three dynamic phases:

• Phase I: Comprehensive Learning Journey (July 9 – August 15, 2024)
  – This phase kicked off with a series of educational webinars led by UNESCO officials, where students learned about Biosphere Reserves, ecosystems, and environmental law. The webinars provided a platform for young minds to explore the vital role these unique ecosystems play in maintaining environmental balance.

– Students then took part in a Community Clean-Up Drive from July 15-31, where they engaged in waste management efforts, focusing on recycling and responsible plastic disposal at local water bodies and public spaces. The clean-up drive not only fostered environmental responsibility but also led to visible improvements in cleanliness and waste reduction.
– Following this, schools held awareness campaigns from August 1-15, using exhibitions, rallies, and poster-making to engage parents and the broader community in conversations around sustainability.

• Phase II: Scriptwriting on Environmental Challenges:
• Students are currently developing scripts that highlight local environmental issues such as pollution, waste management, and climate change. These scripts serve as a creative outlet for students to voice their concerns and propose solutions.
• Phase III: Script to Video Showdown:
• In this final phase, selected students will travel to New Delhi, where they will transform their scripts into impactful videos, showcasing their ideas and solutions on a national platform.
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A Legacy of Impact Through the Biosphere Reserve Champions competition, students across India are becoming stewards of the environment. By blending education, creativity, and community engagement, this initiative is not only raising awareness about critical global challenges but also driving real, measurable change at the grassroots level.

As the competition continues with Phase II, it is clear that the future of environmental conservation is in good hands, thanks to these young champions of sustainability.