Moodbidri: The National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit of Mangalore Institute of Technology and Engineering (MITE), in association with the Department of Civil Engineering and IGNITIA Science Forum, celebrated World Environment Day 2026 with a series of awareness and environmental conservation activities on the college campus.
The programme aimed to create awareness among students and staff about environmental conservation, sustainable waste management, and eco-friendly lifestyle practices.
Environmental engineer stresses responsible waste management
The programme was inaugurated by Mrs. Shilpa S., Environmental Engineer, Town Municipal Council (TMC), Moodbidri.
Addressing the gathering on the theme “Building a Sustainable Future through Environmental Conservation and Waste Management,” she highlighted the growing challenges posed by increasing waste generation and emphasised the importance of responsible waste management practices.
Mrs. Shilpa explained the concept of waste segregation by categorising waste into wet waste, dry waste, sanitary waste, and special-care waste. She encouraged students to adopt the principles of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Repurpose in their daily lives to minimise environmental degradation.
She also spoke about the environmental hazards caused by plastic waste, particularly single-use plastics such as straws, disposable spoons, and packaging materials.
Highlighting the initiatives undertaken by TMC Moodbidri, she explained various waste processing and management practices and stressed the importance of public participation in maintaining cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
She further elaborated on the significance of the Swachh Survekshan initiative and encouraged students to actively participate in promoting urban sanitation and cleanliness.
Principal calls for reduction in plastic use
Speaking on the occasion, the Principal highlighted the growing problem of indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste and its role in causing waterlogging in both urban and rural areas.
He pointed out that plastic waste often blocks drainage systems, leading to flooding during the monsoon season.
Emphasising the need for waste segregation at the source, he urged students to cultivate environmentally responsible habits and reduce dependence on single-use plastics.
The Principal also encouraged students to become ambassadors of environmental protection and contribute actively towards creating a cleaner and greener society.
Forest officials promote afforestation
As part of the World Environment Day celebrations, Mr. Raghavendra Shetty, Deputy Range Forest Officer, and Mr. Sandesh, Beat Forester, addressed the gathering.
They explained the importance of tree planting in maintaining ecological balance and environmental sustainability.
The officials encouraged students to actively participate in afforestation initiatives and contribute towards preserving biodiversity for future generations.
Sapling plantation drive held on campus
To mark the occasion, a sapling plantation drive was organised within the campus premises.
NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, faculty members, and students enthusiastically participated in planting saplings and reaffirmed their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by students and staff to reduce plastic consumption, practise responsible waste management, and contribute towards building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable environment.
Institution continues focus on innovation and excellence
MITE, an autonomous institution known for its academic excellence, offers 10 undergraduate engineering programmes along with postgraduate courses in engineering, management studies, and computer applications.
The institution has earned recognition through its NAAC A+ accreditation and notable performance in innovation rankings, while continuing to promote skill development, industry-oriented learning, leadership training, and future-ready education.