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Forging Green Legacy: A Participatory Approach to ISO-Verified Sustainability

2025-08-08

Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha (Autonomous), has achieved a landmark distinction by becoming the third college in Kerala to earn international accreditation for its Green Audit. This recognition highlights the college’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The comprehensive Green Audit evaluated the college across several key areas, including its Environment Management System (EMS), Energy Management System (EnMS), Water Efficiency Management System (WEMS), Campus Biodiversity Management System (CBMS), Waste Management System (WMS), Occupational Health & Safety Management System (OHS) and Carbon Footprint (CF). These systems, implemented in line with ISO standards, reflect a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and have established Nirmala College as a carbon-neutral campus with exemplary health and safety practices. Certified internal auditors identified and rectified non-conformities after the final external assessment was conducted by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES). The entire process, from audit to the issuance of an ISO-compliant certificate, was completed in a remarkably short six-month timeline.

A certification ceremony was held in the college's AV Hall to commemorate the achievement. During the event, Rev. Dr. Justine K. Kuriakose, Principal of Nirmala College, received the ISO Green Audit certificate from MLA Dr. Mathew Kuzhalnadan, the official report from Dr. Punnen Kurian (Director of TIES), and the Manual of Documented Information from Project Manager Abhirami K P. The program included a welcome address by Dr. Sony Kuriakose (IQAC Coordinator), presidential address by Rev. Dr. Justine K. Kuriakose, a keynote by Dr. Pius Malekkandathil, and an inaugural address by Dr. Mathew Kuzhalnadan. Internal auditors Dr. Lincy Tom (EMS), Dr. Sreeja R (OHS), and Dr. Dinu Alexander (EnMS) also shared their insights. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from Vice-Principal Dr. Gigi Joseph. Distinguished attendees from TIES included Farissa Rasak, Lima Aleena Varghese, and Vandhana (Interns). This milestone reaffirms Nirmala College’s dedication to environmental sustainability and its role as a leader in fostering a greener future.