Thiruvananthapuram: As the 63rd Kerala School Kalolsavam kicks off on Saturday, the attendees are set to experience more than just vibrant performances. 

A dedicated team of health inspectors and volunteers are working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the event is as green and waste-free as possible. Central to their efforts is the implementation of the green protocol, a comprehensive approach that focuses on reducing waste generation, managing waste effectively, and disposing of it in a scientific and environmentally friendly manner.

Biju, a health inspector at the Kalolsavam venues, outlined the comprehensive waste management plan designed to minimize pollution and promote sustainability. "Our main objective is to ensure that the green protocol is followed strictly at all 26 venues where the Kalolsavam is being held," Biju explained.

One of the major highlights of the green initiative is the strict control of plastic use. "Plastic usage will be controlled at the venues. Attendees are free to bring their own bottles, which will be marked with a sticker upon entry. For just Rs 10, they can enter the venues, and if they return the bottles or dispose of them in designated booths, the Rs 10 will be refunded," Biju said. He further emphasized that bottle booths have been strategically placed outside each venue, ensuring easy disposal without contributing to littering.

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Bottle booth set up outside the venues
Bottle booth set up outside the venues

To ensure the protocol is strictly adhered to, additional measures have been put in place. "In case some guests try to bring plastic bottles unnoticed, we have deployed student volunteers, NCC cadets, green army members, and scouts to check the bags of attendees at the entrance," Biju added. With four dedicated counters available for bottle labeling and refunds, the process aims to be as smooth as possible.

Waste management doesn't stop at plastic bottles. Biju noted that special arrangements have been made to handle food waste generated at the Putharikandam Maithanam where the food court is being set up. "We are collecting food waste, including the banana leaves on which food is served. We have a dedicated team of workers working in shifts—20 in the morning, 60 in the afternoon, and 20 in the evening—who will collect the waste and transport it to pig farms via private agencies," Biju said.

Additionally, sanitation is a priority. "We’ve set up E-toilets across the venues, and regular sanitation works are being carried out to ensure the facilities are ready for the event. Toilets will be cleaned every hour, and waste water from food waste will be collected in a covered pit and processed by a sewage treatment van and will be later discharged into the drainages," Biju explained.

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Pit dug for food waste water disposal
Pit dug for food waste water disposal

To further reduce the environmental footprint, food will be served on banana leaves, and steel glasses will be used to replace plastic. "The only item that may require treatment is the paper used on tables," he added.

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Mobile septage treatment unit
Mobile septage treatment unit

The health department has also taken proactive steps to ensure cleanliness. "We have a dedicated team of health inspectors and junior health inspectors at every venue to monitor waste management and cleanliness. Roads around the venues will be swept twice a day to maintain cleanliness," Biju said.

With these measures in place, the 63rd Kerala School Kalolsavam is poised to set a new standard in environmentally conscious events, combining the vibrancy of youth talent with a commitment to sustainability.