Innovative Sustainable Campus Initiative is Important to Change the Students’ Mindset and Culture towards Sustainability

Abstract

In response to the escalating climate crisis and environmental degradation, educational institutions have emerged as vital agents in cultivating a culture of sustainability. This paper explores the "Sustainable Presidency" initiative at Presidency International School as a model of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and a practical application of the Sustainable Campus Programme (SCP). Aligned with global frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Agreement, and the Sendai Framework, the initiative integrates climate change mitigation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement into its core operations. Through a comprehensive approach—including green campus development, energy and water conservation, sustainable waste management, and student-led community outreach—the programme nurtures environmental awareness and responsible citizenship. Field excursions to rural communities further enrich students’ understanding of traditional sustainability practices, bridging theoretical learning with real-world application. This study underscores how transformative campus initiatives can shift student mindsets and foster future sustainability leaders equipped to address environmental challenges at both local and global levels.