Techies on a green mission

When they used to settle down for a cup of coffee amidst their punishing work schedules, the bunch of youngsters working at the Technopark and Kinfra Park would often find that they had little to discuss other than about their jobs and its challenges and tribulations. When somebody pointed this out and raised the question why they could not think beyond their workplaces, which were a world populated almost entirely by machines and human beings, an idea was born: to go beyond the glass-cased structures and try something that would make a difference for society at large. Out of that idea was born Go Green Save Earth, GGSE for short.

The movement that sprouted in the collective thinking of 16 young techies today has around 500 enthusiastic participants. The GGSE campaign, though barely a year old, has travelled some significant distance, doing its little bit to create mass awareness about the environment, particularly among the young adults.

“Our government’s awareness programmes fail to make an impression on our youngsters or prompt them to do something for the environment. That is why we thought of a citizen initiative from our part,” says Ashok Kurian, a professional at Kinfra and a member of the group that sowed the seeds of GGSE.

“We have planted over 1,000 saplings in Technopark and Kazhakkuttam and distributed around 4,000 saplings outside. We have been receiving very good support from Technopark CEO Girish Babu and Manager (HR) Abhilash in our efforts,” says Ashok.

Motivating students

The group has begun moving into schools in the neighbourhood with a ‘Plant a Sapling’ drive, motivating children to engage in activities beneficial to nature. Their activities also include seminars to provide information to students and teachers and supply of seeds and saplings, free of cost, to be planted in school compounds. They have also been urging people to plant saplings on special occasions such as birthdays and weddings. Those who do so are presented with a certificate.

“We also provide all the possible material and information support to those who wish to take up farming at their homes. This is our humble effort to make a difference,” says Ashok.