Aligarh: The National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of Aligarh Muslim University launched a unique initiative titled “Kachra Charcha” to promote environmental sustainability and encourage the adoption of a zero-waste lifestyle. A special discussion was organised with students to highlight the environmental, economic, and social benefits of sustainable living.
Dr. Mohd Mohsin Khan, NSS Coordinator said that the initiative aims to create awareness about waste management among students, faculty, and staff, and to establish the concept of zero-waste living as a campus-wide movement. During the discussion, NSS volunteers stressed that small behavioural changes – such as avoiding single-use plastics, adopting reusable products, and segregating waste – can have a significant impact on both the environment and personal habits. The discussion also highlighted economic benefits, like reusing bottles and repurposing waste materials under NSS’s “Waste to Wealth” initiative.
More than 50 NSS volunteers and students took part in the discussion, sharing their personal experiences including hostel-level efforts like going plastic-free and composting organic waste. Given that AMU’s campus – with 19 hostels and 80 dormitories – generates considerable organic and inorganic waste daily, NSS has been working to address the challenges of infrastructure, awareness, and policy implementation through various initiatives.
Programme Officers Mansoor Alam Siddiqui, Md Khan, and Dr. Fauzia Faridi significantly contributed to the success of the event.
