Tackling water scarcity and pollution

Ryan International School VK, an independent kindergarten through secondary school in New Delhi, India, tackles water scarcity and pollution through innovative projects like hydroponics and biogas plants. Faced with significant environmental challenges that also include waste disposal and rapid population growth, the school is driven by a mission to cultivate eco-conscious citizens capable of addressing these pressing issues.

Ryan International incorporates comprehensive environmental education across all grades, blending the Indian curriculum with innovative environmental projects. Key initiatives include the DABAT project, which combines technology and traditional farming methods to enhance agricultural efficiency and sustainability, significantly reducing water use through drip irrigation systems integrated with bio-floc technology. The school also features a Hydroponics Unit and a Biogas Plant.

The school's environmental action is integrated into various aspects of the curriculum and activities, with students participating in hydroponic farming, recycling, and environmental clubs. Notably, its project “Mitigating the Effects of Water Scarcity” at the Climate Change Challenge held at COP 28, the UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai, was placed among the top five from 43 participating countries. This achievement highlights the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of its environmental initiatives.

Ryan International’s efforts have garnered acclaim, including recognition from the Ministry of Environment for its substantial contributions to environmental conservation. The school has planted more than 5,000 saplings in Delhi as a part of its “Each One Plant One’ campaign.

Should Ryan International win the World's Best School Prize for Environmental Action, the school plans to expand its green technologies and establish a startup incubator for student-led environmental projects. This will enhance its capacity for further innovation, ensuring that students remain at the forefront of environmental advocacy and action.