250 "Champions" to fight air pollution, climate change

CHANDIGARH: 250 “master trainers” recently underwent intensive training at Sri Guru Harkrishan Public School, Bhagtanwala, Amritsar, equipping them to combat Punjab's pressing challenges of air pollution and climate change.

The initiative, spearheaded by Clean Air Punjab in collaboration with Sri Guru Harkrishan Public Schools (CKD Society), Phulkari, AirCare Centre, and Voice of Amritsar, provided educators with practical tools, real-time air quality data, and a school module. These newly minted champions will now take their knowledge back to their schools and communities, aiming to reach thousands of students across the state.

Shweta Mehra, an educationist, Clean Air Punjab hub member, and the workshop's lead facilitator, highlighted the program's broader ambition. The training curriculum delved into crucial topics, from identifying major sources of air pollution like stubble burning and vehicular emissions, to examining the impacts of rising temperatures and dwindling green cover. A significant emphasis was placed on implementing climate-smart solutions that both students and schools can adopt.