Project SEARCH, a joint initiative by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and Tetra Pak to promote environmental awareness and sustainable lifestyles by sensitising students, entered its fourth year today with a grand event. Phase IV of Project SEARCH, which will reach 170,000 children in 170 schools across seven cities, was launched by Robert Swan, one of the world’s leading environmentalists and polar explorers.

As an ambassador for Project SEARCH, Swan will be meeting with students to inspire and motivate them to carry forward their efforts at promoting the cause for a cleaner habitat. “I am very energised and enthused to hear about young adults in India spreading the message of recycling and making Project SEARCH a nationwide movement. These children are actively educating the society about recycling to keep their environment healthier. It is a good sign that a global company like Tetra Pak is promoting this cause along with TERI,” Swan said while felicitating students for their contributions towards Project SEARCH.

In a move that is sure to excite Project SEARCH member schools, Swan announced the launch of a special contest for teachers. The winning teacher will join Swan on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to icy Antarctica. Schools will design a campaign that focuses on one of the 4Rs – Reuse, Reduce, Recycle and Refuse. The winning project will be selected on parameters such as efficacy, uniqueness and relevance to Project SEARCH. The teacher spearheading the project will join Swan for the International Antarctica Expedition 2012.

"TERI believes that youth form the most vibrant and dynamic segment of a country's population. They are a key segment of the society and are an important source of creativity. Keeping this in mind we execute programmes which adhere to their learning and also help in tapping their constructive energies,” said MsRanjana Saikia, Director, Educating Youth for Sustainable Development, Environmental Education and Awareness.

Tetra Pak South Asia Markets Managing Director Kandarp Singh said, “The conviction of the students, teachers and larger community towards Project SEARCH is a clear indication of the promise this initiative has. Congruent with our corporate strategy of adopting and promoting sustainable practices, Tetra Pak is proud to partner with TERI and promote environmental awareness. We are also very proud to have Robert Swan as our new ambassador. His association with Project SEARCH is certain to motivate students to reach even greater heights.”