Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, launched the Ideas4LiFE portal at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. This initiative seeks to gather innovative ideas related to products and services that promote environment-friendly lifestyles. The launch event was also attended by Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, and other dignitaries.
Encouraging Innovation for Environmental Sustainability
Shri Yadav emphasized the importance of the initiative, urging students, research scholars, faculty, and innovators to contribute innovative and out-of-the-box ideas. The goal is to support the global Mission LiFE, which focuses on mindful and deliberate utilization of resources. The Ideas4LiFE portal provides a platform for participants to submit their ideas online, with recognition and attractive prizes awarded to the best contributions across seven themes: Save Water, Save Energy, Reduce Waste, Reduce E-Waste, Say No to Single-Use Plastics, Adopt Sustainable Food Systems, and Adopt Healthy Lifestyles.
Collective Responsibility and National Participation
Highlighting the collective responsibility to protect and sustain nature, Shri Yadav pointed out the need for introspection and action to preserve natural resources for future generations. He also planted a sapling at the IIT Delhi campus as part of the nationwide ‘EkPedMaaKeNaam’ or ‘Plant4Mother’ movement initiated on World Environment Day.
Collaboration with Educational Institutions and UNICEF
The initiative involves significant collaboration with UGC, AICTE, IITs, and other educational institutions to spread the call for the Ideas4LiFE Ideathon. UNICEF, through its YuWaah initiative, is a key partner in the implementation, supporting the development and management of the Ideas4LiFE portal. The event witnessed the participation of over 1000 students, research scholars, and academic faculty, underscoring the broad engagement from the academic community in this important environmental initiative.