Promoting Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Land at JSS AHER

Promoting Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Land at JSS AHER

JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER) actively supports and organizes initiatives promoting the conservation and sustainable utilization of land, including forests and wildlands. As a green campus with over 2,400 trees, JSS AHER is a thriving biodiversity hub, fostering a rich ecosystem that includes approximately 30 bird species, some of which are rare or near-threatened. These efforts align with our commitment to environmental sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For all activities, visit: Activities and Events

Events and Initiatives

A. Tree Plantation and Environmental Drives

  • Sapling Adoption in Commemoration of 107th Jayanthi Mahothsava:

    A special tree plantation drive was organized from 5th to 7th September to celebrate the 107th Jayanthi Mahothsava of His Holiness Jagadguru Dr. Sri Shivaratri Rajendra Mahaswamiji. Saplings were distributed and adopted by students, faculty, and community members to promote sustainable land practices and biodiversity conservation.

    Plantation Details
  • Green Mysuru Drive:

    Over 1,500 saplings were planted in areas surrounding Mysuru to enhance green cover and combat urban heat island effects.

  • Campus Plantation Initiatives:

    Native tree species were planted on campus to support ecological balance and biodiversity.

Links: Event Link 1, Event Link 2

B. Animal Adoption through Nature Club, JSS AHER

Contribution to Mysuru Zoo: JSS AHER’s Nature Club, under its social responsibility initiatives, adopted two animals at the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Mysuru. The adoption was supported by contributions from the staff:

  • Asiatic Lion: Adopted from 09.09.2023 to 08.09.2024 with a contribution of ₹2,00,000.
  • Zebra: Adopted from 13.10.2023 to 12.10.2024 with a contribution of ₹62,451.

Total contribution: ₹2,62,451.

This initiative not only supports the maintenance of these animals but also demonstrates JSS AHER's commitment to wildlife conservation.

Report on Animal Adoption

C. Biodiversity Conservation Seminars

  • Workshops on Forest Conservation: Educational sessions for students and community members, focusing on forest preservation techniques and the importance of biodiversity. View Details
  • Eco-awareness Rallies: Organized rallies for World Environment Day and International Day of Forests to raise awareness about sustainable land practices. View Details

D. Rural Outreach Programs

  • Awareness Drives: Conducted in rural schools to educate children on deforestation, waste management, and sustainable agriculture.
  • Community Involvement: Collaboration with local stakeholders for reforestation efforts and resource conservation. View Details

E. Health and Hygiene Campaigns (Integrated with Conservation Goals)

  • Nutrition Awareness: Programs linking land health with human health, emphasizing organic farming and food security.
  • Clean India Campaign (Swachh Bharat Abhiyan): Multiple cleanliness drives were conducted in nearby villages, emphasizing waste management and the importance of maintaining clean environments for sustainable development.

Evidence: Reports, brochures, and event photographs are available for download through the NSS Activity Portal.

Collaborative Research Projects

A. Sustainable Land Use and Agriculture

  • Research Partnerships:

    Collaboration with local agricultural departments to study sustainable farming practices, including the use of organic fertilizers and water conservation techniques.

  • Wildlife Conservation Projects:

    Partnering with NGOs to study and protect endangered species in Karnataka forests.

B. Biodiversity Studies

  • Joint Research with Karnataka Forest Department:

    Studies on soil erosion control and reforestation methods.

C. Technology Transfers

  • Eco-friendly Farming Solutions:

    Workshops to teach local farmers about bio-composting and renewable energy applications in agriculture.

Evidence: Research papers, MOUs, and project reports are accessible through the Research Activities Section.

On-Campus Conservation Practices

A. Biodiversity Parks and Herbal Gardens

Creation of green spaces on campus, including a medicinal plant garden featuring over 120 species.

B. Waste Management and Circular Economy

  • Biogas Plants:

    Two biogas plants of 200 kg and 50 kg capacity convert food waste to cooking gas, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy.

  • Recycling Initiatives:

    Comprehensive waste segregation systems, with organic waste being composted for campus use.

C. Sustainable Infrastructure

  • Energy-efficient Buildings:

    Use of solar power, rainwater harvesting, and green building materials.

D. Policies and Digital Solutions

Implementation of paperless systems to reduce deforestation.

Evidence: Policy documents and photographs of conservation practices can be accessed via the Sustainability Activities Section.

Impact and Recognition

Through these initiatives, JSS AHER has positively impacted:

  • Over 50,000 individuals through outreach programs.
  • Local biodiversity: Increased green cover on and around the campus.
  • Community health: Integrated sustainable land use with public health education.

The university’s efforts serve as a benchmark for institutions seeking to balance academic excellence with environmental stewardship.