Hadapsar: Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation, a Pune-based NGO working extensively in the field of environmental conservation and noise pollution mitigation, organised an awareness programme on noise pollution and e-waste management at Gyanprabodhini Secondary and Junior College, run by Mahatma Phule Vidya Niketan, Sasanenagar. The programme was conducted in collaboration with Electrofine Recycling Pvt. Ltd.
The initiative was organised on the occasion of Savitribai Phule Jayanti and National Girl Child Day, underlining the importance of education, social responsibility, and environmental awareness among students. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty members.
While introducing the programme, Rajendra Kulkarni, Manager of Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation, appealed to students to take an active role in protecting the environment and become responsible citizens. He urged them to contribute towards reducing noise pollution and promoting scientific waste disposal practices in the coming year 2026.
Interactive Noise Pollution Awareness Session
The highlight of the programme was an engaging and interactive session conducted by Dr. Garima Kavathekar, CEO of Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation, a noted environmentalist and noise pollution awareness expert. Moving away from the conventional lecture format, Dr. Kavathekar conducted a live demonstration using a decibel (dB) meter, allowing students to measure real-time noise levels within the school premises.
She explained how excessive noise adversely affects physical health, mental well-being, concentration, and learning abilities, especially among children and adolescents. Dr. Kavathekar also spoke about the long-term impact of noise pollution on society and stressed the need for collective responsibility. She shared simple and practical solutions, such as responsible use of sound systems, avoiding unnecessary honking, and spreading awareness within families and communities.
Dr. Garima Kavathekar’s Note:
“Noise pollution is a silent threat that affects our health, productivity, and peace of mind. Awareness among students is the first step towards long-term behavioural change. When children understand the science behind sound, they naturally become ambassadors of a quieter and healthier environment.”
Scientific Insights on E-Waste Management
Adding another important dimension to the programme, Ruturaj Raut, Marketing Manager at Electrofine Recycling Pvt. Ltd., delivered an informative session on e-waste management. He explained the environmental and health hazards caused by improper disposal of electronic waste, including soil contamination, water pollution, and toxic exposure.
He highlighted the importance of systematic collection, segregation, and recycling of obsolete electronic devices and encouraged students to ensure that unused gadgets at home are handed over only to authorised recyclers.
Ruturaj Raut’s Note:
“E-waste recycling is not just an option—it is a necessity. Scientific recycling prevents hazardous substances from entering our ecosystem and helps recover valuable resources. Awareness at the school level can bring a significant change in how society handles electronic waste.”
Institutional Support and Conclusion
The programme was successfully conducted with the support and cooperation of Smita Wagh, President of the institution, and Ganpati Khot, Programme Coordinator. Shashikala Kumbhar, Project Head, proposed the vote of thanks and appreciated the efforts of Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation and Electrofine Recycling Pvt. Ltd. for conducting such a meaningful and educational initiative.
Through continuous awareness programmes in schools and communities, Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation remains committed to its mission of creating quieter, healthier, and environmentally responsible communities, empowering the younger generation with knowledge, responsibility, and action.
