THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, OCTOBER 8, 2025
Demonstrating its growing global leadership in
sustainability and environmental stewardship, Centurion University of Technology and Management (CUTM), Odisha,
has been recognised with the prestigious International
Green Gown Award 2025 under the highly competitive “Nature Positive”
category. The honour, conferred by the Environmental Association for
Universities and Colleges (EAUC) in partnership with the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Association of Universities
(IAU), places the university among the world’s foremost institutions advancing
sustainability through innovation and community engagement.
CUTM received the “Highly Commended” distinction for its
pioneering initiative, “Pollinator Paradise: A Diversity Research
Park for Sustainability.” Among the ten universities shortlisted
globally, Centurion University was the only institution from India to reach the
finals and emerged as the second-highest ranked university in its category,
marking a significant achievement for both the university and the country.
The award recognises CUTM’s outstanding efforts in
biodiversity conservation, environmental education, and sustainable campus
development. Situated on the university’s Bhubaneswar campus, Pollinator
Paradise is a thriving ecological sanctuary dedicated to protecting and
nurturing pollinators such as bees, butterflies, birds, and beneficial insects
that play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
The initiative seamlessly combines conservation, research,
and experiential learning by cultivating a diverse range of nectar-rich plants,
shrubs, and trees that provide year-round nourishment for pollinators. The
university’s commitment to maintaining a chemical-free campus, free from pesticides
and synthetic fertilizers, has enabled natural ecosystems to flourish while
contributing meaningfully to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.
The international jury praised the project as an “excellent
biodiversity education model with significant outreach and a strong research
foundation.” The judges highlighted its evidence-based approach, measurable
environmental impact, and strong potential for replication by educational
institutions, schools, and non-governmental organisations across the world.
The recognition reinforces Centurion University’s vision of
creating sustainable, nature-centric learning environments and underscores its
commitment to becoming one of the most nature-friendly universities globally.
Expressing happiness over the achievement, the Vice-Chancellor of Centurion University said, “I am delighted that Centurion University of Technology and Management has been recognized with the International Green Gown Award 2025 (Highly Commended) under the ‘Nature Positive’ category. Being the only university from India and ranked second globally is a proud achievement that reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability and biodiversity conservation. Our Pollinator Paradise initiative embodies our vision of creating a living, learning ecosystem that supports nature and inspires communities. I congratulate our faculty, students, and staff for their dedication and teamwork in making this global recognition possible.”
The accolade adds another milestone to Centurion University’s sustainability journey, showcasing how higher education institutions can serve as catalysts for ecological restoration, environmental awareness, and community-driven conservation while delivering global impact through local action.
