Faridabad, July 3, 2025: Marking International Plastic Bags Free Day, Dr. O.P. Bhalla Foundation at Manav Rachna Educational Institutions (MREI) has recycled 34,000 kilograms of plastic waste through its sustainability initiatives. This includes the conversion of 24,000 kg of plastic into 12 park benches by the Foundation, and 10,000 kg into over 100 t-shirts and 4 dustbins under Project Reborn, in collaboration with the Lakshay Foundation.
The initiative began in 2023 under the Social Internship Program, a 15-day platform for students of MRIS Sector 14, Faridabad. Supported by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forest, Government of Haryana. The project started with a copyrighted Waste Segregation Initiative, including an e-handbook circulated among RWAs via social media and WhatsApp to raise awareness on household waste.
Following the awareness campaign, the team launched a structured plastic collection drive and recycled a total of 24,000 kg of plastic waste into 12 park benches. The team has installed them across Manav Rachna campuses, as well as at Government Senior Secondary School, Bhankhri.
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Under Project Reborn, the team converted 10,000 kg of plastic into t-shirts and dustbins. They processed the waste into polyester fibre for textile use. The program trained five women from economically weaker sections in recycling and sales, enabling each to earn up to ₹20,000 from t-shirt sales. Waste collection and sorting staff were also incentivised. 30 t-shirts were distributed to children at the Government Boys Hostel, NIT Faridabad.
The team set up an awareness stall at Manav Rachna Campus, where students and visitors engaged with the project’s outcomes. ₹ 12,000 was raised through on-site sales, which will be reinvested in future phases of the initiative.
The initiative has helped divert plastic waste from landfills and experts estimate that it has prevented approximately 15 metric tons of CO₂ emissions.
About Dr. O. P. Bhalla Foundation
Dr. O. P. Bhalla Foundation is a social development arm of Manav Rachna Educational Institutions, established in memory of visionary educationist and philanthropist Dr. O. P. Bhalla. The Foundation works across key areas including education, environment, health, skill development, and community empowerment. Through sustained outreach programs, strategic partnerships, and grassroots initiatives, the Foundation strives to create inclusive opportunities and promote sustainable development. Its efforts aim to nurture responsible citizens and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
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About MREI:
Founded in 1997, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions (MREI) stand as a symbol of excellence in education, providing high-quality learning across diverse fields. With over 41,000 alumni, 135+ global academic collaborations, and 80+ Innovation & Incubation Entrepreneurial Ventures, MREI is home to premier institutions. Including Manav Rachna University (MRU), Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies (MRIIRS). NAAC A++ Accredited, and Manav Rachna Dental College (under MRIIRS) – NABH Accredited. MREI also operates twelve schools nationwide, offering Indian and International curricula such as IB and Cambridge. Consistently ranked among the top in India by NIRF-MHRD, TOI, Outlook, Business World, ARIIA, and Careers360. MREI’s achievements reflect its commitment to quality education. MRIIRS holds QS 5-Star ratings for Teaching, Employability, Academic Development, Facilities, Social Responsibility, and Inclusiveness. MRIIRS entered the Top 100 Universities list in the NIRF Rankings 2024 with Rank 92 and placed 38 in the Dental Category.
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