Media Release
Bengaluru, Jun 5: St Charles PU College celebrated World Environment Day 2026 with great fervour and commitment, embracing the theme "Together We Can Restore Earth." The programme brought together educators, students, environmental advocates, and members of the Church in a collective effort to promote ecological awareness and responsible stewardship of our Common Home.
The celebration was graced by Rev Dr Joseph Sussainathan P, Auxiliary Bishop of Bangalore, as the chief guest. In his inspiring address, the Bishop emphasized the urgent need for ecological responsibility and called upon young people to become guardians of creation. Drawing from the teachings of 'Laudato Si', he reminded the gathering that caring for the Earth is not merely an environmental concern but a moral and spiritual responsibility entrusted to all.
The event was further enriched by the presence of distinguished dignitaries: Fr Balraj, secretary for the Commission for Ecology, Sr Reeta Varghese, provincial supervisor, Sr Priscila Lobo, joint secretary of the Commission for Ecology, Sr Sheela Cruz, councillor for Education, Sr Lucy, manager and correspondent, Monisha Lobo RTR member, T Paul Koshy and Sr Elizabeth Leo, principal of St Charles PU College. Their presence and encouragement underscored the institution's commitment to environmental education and sustainable living.
The programme commenced with a unique and symbolic welcome. The dignitaries were escorted by NSS volunteers carrying saplings and participating in a ceremonial slow march, signifying hope, growth, and the shared responsibility of nurturing the Earth. Replacing the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, a plant watering ceremony was conducted, highlighting the importance of preserving and sustaining life.
A major highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of the **World Environment Day 2026 Logo**, representing unity, responsibility, and the collective commitment to restoring the Earth.
The programme also featured the launch and promotion of meaningful sustainability initiatives, including GUDSWAP, a clothes exchange initiative encouraging responsible consumption and the reuse of old clothes and an inspiring initiative led by Paul Koshy, managing director of Unified Intelligence, which promotes sustainable living and reusing of Plastic.
Adding depth and creativity to the celebration was the powerful mime performance, One Earth, No Plastic, which portrayed the nurturing role of Mother Earth, the devastating effects of pollution, deforestation, and plastic waste, and the hope that emerges when communities unite to restore the environment. The choir presentation and cultural performances further reinforced the message of environmental harmony and collective action.
A particularly meaningful aspect of the programme was its connection to the Catholic Church's observance of the 800th Anniversary of St Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures. Through this commemoration, the college reflected on the enduring legacy of St Francis, whose profound love for nature and reverence for all creation continue to inspire ecological consciousness across the world.
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment to move from awareness to action, from wastefulness to sustainability, and from individual concern to collective responsibility. It served as a reminder that environmental restoration begins with simple choices, shared efforts, and a deep respect for the gift of creation.
As the college community came together in prayer, reflection, and action, the message of the day echoed clearly across the campus:
Together We Can Restore Earth.