2024-08-21

The Malankara Orthodox Church has launched an innovative sustainability project at its headquarters in Devalokam, Kottayam, underscoring its strong commitment to environmental stewardship. This initiative features the creation of a butterfly garden with educational boards, enhancing biodiversity and serving as an informal education hub. Additionally, all the trees on the campus have been equipped with QR-coded boards to support the green initiatives. The existing fruit tree garden has been expanded with native species, which will help improve air quality, boost biodiversity, enhance soil health, and create a beneficial microclimate.

The sustainability projects were inaugurated by H.G. Dr. Joseph Mar Dionysius Metropolitan, President of the Ecological Commission of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. He highlighted the importance of environmental care as a fundamental aspect of faith, encouraging the congregation and community to actively engage in these efforts. This project marks a significant step in integrating sustainability into the Church's mission and operations. Rev. Yakoob Remban, Manager; Fr. Mohan Joseph, PRO and Fr. Thomas George, Vice President spoke at the inaugural event, which was also attended by Abhirami K.P., Project Manager (Green Audit); Anoopa Mathews, PRO; and Dileep Kumar Thampi, Office Assistant from TIES. The projects has been implemented by TIES. Similar projects are progressing at various college, company and institutional campuses.