Guru Krishna Priya’s interview beautifully reflects how sustainability is not just a concept but a way of life—integrated into her teaching, her mapping contributions, and her community engagement. As a dedicated Local Guide and educator, she demonstrates how individual actions can create collective impact. From documenting eco-friendly facilities on Google Maps to conducting hands-on workshops, meetups, and exhibitions, her work shows how awareness can transform into meaningful action. Her story is a reminder that sustainability thrives when passionate individuals lead by example. Priya’s efforts—in classrooms, communities, and on digital platforms—highlight the powerful role of Local Guides in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inspiring others to protect our planet.
Here are her responses to a few questions on sustainability — in her own words.
[Q] Why do you support sustainability?
[R] Sustainability is the need of the hour. Every living being has the right for living a good and healthy life on earth.As a teacher I take this initiative to make my students, work and learn for a better environment tomorrow.
[Q] Please mention your contributions on Google Maps related to sustainability .
[R] I have posted pictures and written reviews. I have added information about places where the segregated dust bins are used like many places of worship, malls etc., has such dustbins, drinking water taps, lactating mother’s rooms etc.I have added places where organic products are sold.I add places of natural beauty like beaches, hills, gardens, parks, etc. which have walking paths, hiking trails, playgrounds, food shops, etc., where standards are maintained.I post in Maps features like facilities of rest rooms, wheelchair accessibility, availability of drinking water, pet friendly places, kids friendly places etc.
[Q] Please share your contributions related to sustainability beyond Maps.
[R] I have conducted workshops in schools and collages and organised exhibitions, insisting how to identify and avoid usage of non-biodegradable things to the maximum extent possible. Conducted Workshops on Disposal and segregation of waste. Worked with NGOs in creating awareness of sustainability goals.
Caption: Ms. Guru Krishna Priya is contributing to creating wall art about the sustainability goal “Life Below Water.”
I have conducted two meetups in Connect which helped in sustainability goals like Good Health and Wellbeing and Life on Land and Water. They are:Relieve the Lockdown and LGs Help Fishermem’s Businesses. both in context to sustainability.
Caption: Screenshot of the virtual meetup “Relieve the Lockdown” hosted by Ms. Guru Krishna Priya.
[Q] What is the impact of your contributions?
[R] In Maps my photos and reviews had helped a lot to find out relevant information of places and facilities available. My posts in Connect regarding trees created a impulse amongst Local Guides which lead to healthy interactions. TREES-OUR-SAVIORS. I have made list in Maps, places where artefacts and souvenirs are sold.
Caption: Interaction of college students with Ms. Guru Krishna Priya during an exhibition on the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
My workshops and exhibitions has created a great impact in students. Since I am a Work Experience Teacher, I teach my students art and craft. Where I teach them to create articles avoiding plastic. Also I teach them to Reuse, Reduce and Recycle. I teach making of newspaper bags, newspaper craft etc.
Caption: Craft work by the students of Ms. Guru Krishna Priya using colour paper, old cardboard boxes, coconut shells, newspapers, etc.
Art is a very important factor of social sustainability. Art is essential for a healthy society. Art is an expression.
