US Consul General Unveils Eco-Friendly Initiative in Mumbai

US Consul General Mike Hankey inaugurates 70 eco-friendly benches for visa applicants in Mumbai. Made from recycled plastic waste, these benches underscore sustainable development principles. The project aligns with efforts to combat climate change and inspires students to use education for global impact.

The US Consul General in Mumbai, Mike Hankey, inaugurated 70 new benches for visa applicants on Tuesday, made in collaboration with the Indian regional passport office at the Bandra Kurla Complex. Decorated with messages advocating recycling, the benches were crafted from plastic waste donated by Mumbai citizens as part of the Project Mumbai Plastic Recyclothon and E-waste Recyclothon initiative.

Consul General Hankey described the initiative as a model for 'sustainable urban development.' Addressing questions about Indian students heading to the US, he highlighted that this year saw a record number of student visas processed. He noted that last year India sent more students to the US than any other country, with Mumbai playing a key role in this achievement.

This initiative underscores a broader effort to combat climate change, according to Hankey. He emphasized that governments, businesses, and citizens must collaborate in this fight. 'Students can take inspiration from these benches, leveraging their education to drive global change,' he suggested. The concept was developed in coordination with various government bodies and civil society, aiming for sustained resource protection. Future plans include extending the initiative by installing similar benches outside metro lines to maximize public benefit.

(With inputs from agencies.)