About the Programme:

The Green Club of Shri S. H. Kelkar College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Devgad, serves as a dynamic platform dedicated to environmental advocacy and sustainable action. Established to foster a deep-seated respect for nature among the youth, the club empowers students to transition from passive observers to active stewards of the environment. By blending academic knowledge with hands-on conservation efforts, the Green Club encourages students to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles and lead community-driven initiatives. From protecting local biodiversity to implementing waste reduction strategies, the club is committed to building a greener, cleaner, and more climate-resilient future for the campus and the surrounding region.

Under the Climate Skills Programme – Seed for Transition India, supported by the British Council, HSBC, and the University of Mumbai, the college implemented a series of impactful sustainability initiatives during the 2025-26 academic year. The programme focuses on enhancing climate awareness, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable practices among students and the local community.

This initiative included capacity building through training for faculty and students. Dr. Nitin Valanju, Dr. Guruprasad Ghadi, and several student participants attended a Climate Skills training programme at the University of Mumbai Sub-Centre, Ratnagiri. Additionally, an online Capacity Enhancement Workshop on “QGIS for Biodiversity Audit” was conducted on 22nd January 2026, strengthening technical research skills related to biodiversity documentation.

Programmes / Activities:

In the 2025-26 academic year, the Green Club conducted the following activities:

Biodiversity Mapping and RET Nursery: A detailed biodiversity survey was conducted across 28,112 sq. metres, documenting diverse plant species, including trees, shrubs, herbs, and medicinal plants. A 550 sq. foot nursery was developed to conserve Rare, Endangered, and Threatened (RET) and medicinal species.

Mangrove and Sea Turtle Conservation: Focused activities were carried out in the Taramumbari and Tambaldeg regions. This included mangrove plantations, coastal awareness drives, and the conservation of Olive Ridley turtles through beach clean-ups and the safe release of hatchlings.

Energy and Water Audits: The institution conducted audits to assess consumption patterns. Future strategies involve adopting renewable energy, efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, and advanced wastewater management.

Outreach Activities: The club organized seed ball workshops, tree plantation drives, plastic collection campaigns, and organic farming awareness programmes for schools and local communities.

Showcase Event: Green Club initiatives were presented at the University of Mumbai, Kalina Campus, on 16th February 2026, through an exhibition involving faculty and student representatives.

Guest Lecture: Prof. Dr. Anil Kurhe delivered a special lecture on biodiversity conservation, highlighting career opportunities in environmental sciences.

Benefits:
 

• Enhances environmental awareness and climate literacy among students.
• Promotes biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management.
• Develops practical skills in research, fieldwork, and environmental auditing.
• Encourages community participation in conservation efforts.
• Strengthens institutional engagement with environmental initiatives.
• Fosters a sense of responsibility toward ecological protection and sustainable living.

Facilities:

The college provides the necessary financial support, infrastructure, and expert guidance to conduct field surveys, training programmes, and awareness initiatives under the Green Club.

Achievements:
 

• Successful completion of biodiversity mapping and the establishment of an RET plant nursery.
• Active contribution to mangrove restoration and sea turtle conservation.
• Completion of energy and water audits with comprehensive future sustainability planning.
• Organization of multiple outreach programmes benefiting local schools and communities.
• Successful representation and presentation at the University-level showcase event.
• Significant enhancement of student participation and skill development in conservation.

Green Club Committee:

Coordinator: Dr. Nitin Manohar Valanju
Members:
Prof. Nagesh Daptardar
Dr. Guruprasad Ghadi

The Green Club initiatives have significantly contributed to promoting environmental awareness and sustainable development. Through the active participation of students and faculty, the programme has fostered a culture of responsibility, creating a positive impact on both the academic environment and the surrounding community.