Mont Rose College recently hosted an inspiring Environment Day programme on 4 June 2025, at Shakespeare House in Ilford. Titled “Beat Plastic Pollution,” this impactful event underscored the pressing need for sustainable practices and demonstrated how educational institutions like Mont Rose College can lead meaningful environmental change.
The programme brought together students, educators, and environmental advocates for a day filled with insightful discussions, inspiring activities, and actionable takeaways to help attendees reduce their environmental footprint. Read on for a full recap of the day’s events and takeaways.
Highlights of the Environment Day Programme
Held between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM, the event showcased the dedication of Mont Rose College’s Health and Social Care Department and its wider community to raise awareness about plastic pollution. With a focus on collective action and sustainable practices, the programme featured valuable contributions from distinguished speakers and participants alike.
An Esteemed Gathering of Experts and Leaders
The presence of esteemed guests added credibility and gravitas to the event. Key participants included:
- Mr Rakesh Rootsman Rak – A globally renowned permaculture designer with a passion for ecological balance. He illuminated the audience with vivid stories of sustainable living, including techniques like forest gardening and eco-village design.
- Mr Bilal Sheikh – CEO of Mont Rose College, who spoke profoundly about the responsibility of educational institutions in influencing future generations.
- Ms Sayeda Zain – Principal of Mont Rose College, and Ms Renata Kairiene – Vice Principal, each contributing their expertise to the discussion on environmental preservation.
- Dr Jahanzaib Irfan – Health and Social Care Department Programme Manager, offering vital insights into the role education plays in fostering sustainability.
Additionally, students and lecturers played a role in driving the conversation, further enriching the programme. Voices like that of lecturer Ms Oana Octavia Dumitra highlighted the collective responsibility we all share in protecting the environment.
Inspiring Speeches on Sustainability
One of the event’s most memorable aspects was the series of thought-provoking speeches. Each speaker, bringing their unique perspective, emphasised the importance of combating plastic pollution while encouraging proactive environmental stewardship.
- Mr Rakesh Rootsman Rak drew connections between his experience in sustainable design and the theme of the day, urging attendees to view sustainability as both an individual and collective responsibility.
- Leaders from Mont Rose College, including Mr Bilal Sheikh and Ms Sayeda Zain, offered reflections on how educational institutions can spearhead initiatives that inspire sustainable practices among their communities.
Signing the Green Pledge
A standout moment of the day was the opportunity for attendees to formalise their commitment to reduce plastic waste. Using a digitally displayed QR code, students, lecturers, and guests signed the Green Pledge, demonstrating a tangible step toward sustainability.
Students were further invited to renew their commitment by signing the pledge at the reception, ensuring ample participation and awareness across attendees.
Sustainability in Action
A Litter Picking Drive
To extend the impact of Environment Day beyond the campus walls, the Mont Rose College Students’ Union and Ms Hafza organised a litter-picking drive. Armed with gloves and bags, volunteers ventured into the surrounding areas of Ilford and Redbridge to clear litter, reducing plastic waste in the community.
This hands-on activity demonstrated the power of unity and local engagement while embodying the theme of “Beat Plastic Pollution.” The difference made in just a few hours was a shining example of the impact community action can have.
Commitment Through Small Changes
An equally crucial takeaway from the day was the encouragement for attendees to adopt simple, sustainable practices at home. Some of the commitments attendees were inspired to make included:
- Reducing single-use plastics: Bringing reusable bags, bottles, and containers into daily routines.
- Recycling responsibly: Paying closer attention to correctly sorting and disposing waste.
- Educating others: Sharing knowledge about environmental issues with family, friends, and networks.
Through these actionable steps, Mont Rose College encouraged its attendees to view sustainability as a shared, long-term commitment rather than a one-day initiative.
Building the Future Through Community and Reflection
Following the day’s efforts, participants had the opportunity to unwind together during a celebratory BBQ session. This informal gathering created space for everyone to reflect on the day’s events and fostered a deeper sense of community among students, faculty, and guests.
The strength of Mont Rose College’s initiative lies in its integration of education, action, and fellowship. By combining environmental advocacy with practical, engaging activities, the event offered a replicable model for how colleges and universities can successfully promote sustainability.
Key Takeaways and Lasting Impact
The Environment Day at Mont Rose College serves as a case study in how educational institutions can inspire real change. Some key takeaways from the event include:
- Individual Responsibility: Each of us plays a role in fighting plastic pollution by committing to small, actionable changes in daily life.
- The Role of Education: Educational institutions like Mont Rose College have a pivotal opportunity to shape environmentally conscious citizens by leading by example and fostering awareness.
- Community Engagement: Collective action and collaboration are essential for addressing large-scale environmental challenges.
Mont Rose College’s Environment Day shows what is possible when an institution commits to making a difference, both on campus and beyond.
Join the Movement to Beat Plastic Pollution
The success of the Environment Day programme at Mont Rose College is a testament to the power of education and community action in confronting environmental challenges. For those inspired by the event, Mont Rose College invites you to explore further initiatives and join us in our continued efforts to create a greener, more sustainable future.
Together, we can make a difference for generations to come. Learn more about Mont Rose College’s commitment to sustainability on our website or see how you can get involved.
Start taking steps toward a sustainable future today. Together, we can “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
