2026-08-07

Mar Dionysius College, Pazhanji, Kunnamkulam, Thrissur marked an important milestone in its environmental sustainability journey with the Certification Ceremony of the Green Audit at ISO Standards, held on 7 August 2026 at the BMP Block. The programme brought together the college community and representatives of the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) to recognise the institution’s efforts towards strengthening sustainable practices across its campus.

The TIES Green Audit Programme is one of India’s comprehensive environmental audit programmes for academic institutions. Conducted in accordance with ISO standards, the programme assesses key areas including energy, water, waste management, biodiversity, occupational health and safety, and carbon footprint, while also aligning institutional sustainability efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The ceremony began with a prayer song, followed by the welcome address by Dr. Vibitha Kochamani, EMS Coordinator. Dr. Thomas Mathew, Principal, delivered the presidential address, while H.G. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios Metropolitan, Manager, Mar Dionysius College, Pazhanji, delivered the inaugural address.

A key highlight of the programme was the presentation of the Green Audit Report by Dr. Punnen Kurian, Secretary, TIES. The presentation provided an overview of the audit process and the assessment undertaken to understand the college’s environmental performance and sustainability practices. Dr. Joylsna B., Programme Coordinator, followed with an overview of the Green Audit and its significance in strengthening sustainable campus management.

The programme also recognised the contributions of members of the college community who supported the initiative. Felicitations were offered by Prof. Dr. Rejimon P. M., Vice Principal; Dr. Raji A. M., IQAC Coordinator; Rev. Fr. Joseph Cheruvathoor, Secretary; Mr. C. K. Mohan, Treasurer; Mr. Gheves Markose, Senior Clerk; and Mr. Rizil, Union Chairman.

Representing TIES at the ceremony were Sarath Babu, Nature Education Officer, and Ananya P., Project Manager, Green Audit Consultancy Division. Their participation reflected the collaborative efforts involved in undertaking the Green Audit and supporting the institution through the assessment and certification process.

The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates, followed by the vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Ann Maria Jose, WEMS Coordinator.

The certification marks a significant step for Mar Dionysius College in its continuing efforts to make sustainability an integral part of campus management. By bringing environmental performance under systematic assessment and ISO-based standards, the initiative provides the institution with a structured framework to identify improvements, strengthen existing practices and move towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible campus.