World Children’s Day took on a special meaning at Swarnajothi National School as young students stepped into the spotlight as environmental champions through PenBin Love Junior—the school’s second major initiative under its ZeroPlastic journey. Launched by the Swarnajothi National School ZeroPlastic Club in collaboration with ZeroPlastic University of Peradeniya, the project celebrated childhood not just with words, but with action.

At the heart of the initiative was a simple yet powerful idea: help children build sustainable habits from an early age. A dedicated PenBin was placed inside the school library, inviting students to drop their used pens and stationery instead of discarding them as waste. What may seem like a small act became a meaningful lesson in responsibility, showing students that everyday choices can contribute to a cleaner planet. Through the larger ZeroPlastic recycling mission, these discarded pens are given a second life—turning waste into purpose.

The energy behind PenBin Love Junior came from the enthusiastic leadership of the Swarnajothi ZeroPlastic EXCO, whose commitment and teamwork transformed the idea into reality. Their efforts created a welcoming space where children felt excited to participate, learn, and feel proud of their role in protecting the environment. More importantly, the initiative helped nurture a sense of ownership among students, reminding them that they are not too young to make a difference.

As part of the growing ZeroPlastic network, Swarnajothi National School continues to show how schools can become powerful hubs of change. PenBin Love Junior stands as a fitting tribute to World Children’s Day—one that sends a clear message: when children are trusted, guided, and empowered, they can lead the way toward a more sustainable and hopeful future.