As climate crises, joblessness, and rural-urban migration reshape our world, India faces a critical choice. Instead of concrete corridors, the answer may lie in conservation corridors through a livelihood-first model of ecotourism that puts communities at the heart of sustainability.   What is a livelihood-first model? It’s an approach where local communities aren’t just custodians of nature, but beneficiaries and business owners of ecotourism. This model ensures that protecting the environment generates tangible, dignified, and recurring incomes, turning natural heritage into sustainable livelihoods.   Global Proof, Local Promise   Globally, ecotourism contributes over $77 billion annually to local economies (TIES), with growing traction in rural and Indigenous regions. In Southeast Asia, it supports 1 in 5 tourism jobs. In Africa, community conservancies generate millions in income while protecting endangered species. In India, the Ministry of Tourism estimates ecotourism could generate 15–20 million jobs by 2030, if community ownership is embedded.   Local Success Stories: Where Livelihood Meets Landscape   India already has models that prove what’s possible when locals lead. Odisha’s Mangalajodi Wetland transformed former poachers into trained bird guides and boat operators. Today, they earn over ₹1.6 crore annually, while conserving 200+ species of migratory birds. In Chhattisgarh, tribal families near Kanger Valley and Barnawapara run rest houses and eco-safaris, strengthening forest protection and dignified incomes. Pichavaram Mangroves in Tamil Nadu support boatmen earning ₹2.5 lakh annually, creating ecological awareness and reducing overfishing. Youth in Himachal Pradesh’s GHNP region have become certified eco-guides and homestay owners, restoring both ecosystems and dignity. In Arunachal Pradesh, tribal homestays in Ziro and Tawang have boosted household incomes by 60%, while celebrating Apatani heritage.   These stories show that conservation doesn’t require sacrifice. When designed right, it rewards communities for stewardship.   A 5-Point Roadmap for Livelihood-Led Ecotourism Here's a deeper dive into the livelihood dimension, through a 5-point roadmap tailored for India’s rural transformation:   Community-Centric Policy Frameworks State ecotourism policies must mandate fair wages, inclusive training, and profit-sharing moving beyond tokenism to real empowerment.   National Mission on Ecotourism Livelihoods A centrally sponsored mission jointly led by the Ministries of Tourism and Rural Development should unify efforts, scale innovation, and incentivize sustainability.   Green Skills & Certification with Livelihood Focus Offer short, job-ready courses in eco-guiding, regenerative farming, waste-to-wealth, and community storytelling via ITIs, skill centers, and panchayats.   Integrated Land-Use Planning Foster cross-sector planning among Forest, Tourism, Panchayati Raj, and Tribal departments to designate ecotourism zones with livelihood synergy.   Social Safeguards & Impact Monitoring Implement third-party audits to assess community satisfaction, income equity, and ecological metrics, ensuring long-term trust and transparency.   From Forests to Futures   As India marches toward Viksit Bharat 2047, ecotourism must evolve from being a tourism product to becoming a national development strategy. It’s not just about attracting visitors, it’s about creating ecosystems of livelihood, learning, and leadership. India’s forests, wetlands, and tribal landscapes can become living classrooms and thriving economies. In them lies not just our heritage, but our opportunity to prove that preservation and prosperity can walk hand in hand.

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, India has emerged as a leading voice for climate justice, championing equitable and accountable climate finance. Representing the Like-Minded Developing Countries (LMDCs)—a bloc that speaks for over half the world’s population—India has forcefully articulated the urgent need for predictable, transparent, and legally binding financial support from developed nations. India’s climate finance journey has been built on a decade of persistent advocacy. While the Paris Agreement enshrined the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities,” at COP30, India contends that developed countries have consistently failed to meet their obligations. The much-publicized $100 billion annual pledge remains unmet, and the new target of $300 billion by 2035, agreed upon at COP29 in Baku, has seen by India as “suboptimal” and lacking enforceability. At the third high-level ministerial dialogue on climate finance, India underscored that without scaled-up, concessional, and grant-based finance, developing nations cannot meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). These NDCs are central to global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C, and India warned that the failure of developed nations to deliver finance risks derailing the entire climate ambition. India has also emphasized that climate finance must be “new and additional,” not repackaged development aid or loans that increase debt burdens. It has called out “greenwashing” and the lack of clarity in current financial flows, demanding that Article 9.1 and 9.3 of the Paris Agreement—on legal obligations and leadership in mobilization—be upheld. Despite these challenges, India has made significant progress: expanding renewable energy capacity, enhancing climate resilience, and investing in green infrastructure. Yet it maintains that domestic efforts cannot substitute for the developed world's global responsibility. India meeting one of its Paris commitments, well ahead of schedule, is testimony to that. More green power being added in 2025, than coal shows, the countries continued effort in this direction. As new climate finance challenges occur, India’s stance is clear: climate finance is not charity—it is a matter of climate justice. The road from Baku to Belém and beyond must not be paved with diluted commitments but with concrete, enforceable actions that reflect the urgency of the climate crisis and the rights of the Global South. India’s climate finance journey is not just about numbers—it is about fairness, trust, and the future of multilateralism. For me, climate finance is not about technical terms or big negotiations — it’s about real people and the communities that are affected first. Through my involvement with the Climate Reality community, I’ve seen how climate impacts can disrupt lives, especially for those who already have limited resources. When support and funding reach the right places, it truly strengthens local resilience. That’s why I feel India’s call for climate finance that is clear, fair, and reliable is not just a policy topic, but an essential step for protecting vulnerable people, given India and the neighbourhood is at the receiving end of climate catastrophes. We are a large country with diverse development needs, and it continues to contribute to climate action in its own capacity. However, without the financial support initially committed to developing countries, meeting these responsibilities becomes more challenging. India’s position at COP30 and now at the ongoing World Economic Forum, Davos highlights that climate action and climate fairness are interconnected. When developed nations fulfil their commitments, it strengthens trust and supports more balanced global progress.

A global wave of responsible, experience-driven travel is lifting ecotourism from the fringes to the forefront of the tourism industry. According to the UNWTO, ecotourism accounted for nearly 25% of global tourism revenue in 2024. Allied Market Research projects the global ecotourism market, valued at $210.4 billion in 2023, will grow to $829.8 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 11.7%. Nearly 45% of these destinations are located in rural areas—underscoring the transformative potential of ecotourism to foster both environmental sustainability and inclusive development. Lessons from the Global South Several countries in the Global South have already demonstrated how ecotourism can serve as a national development strategy rooted in both conservation and livelihoods. Costa Rica has embedded Payments for Environmental Services into national policy. With over 25% of its land protected, the country has turned ecological preservation into a pillar of economic growth, tourism contributes 5.8% of its GDP. Namibia passed legislation in 1996 granting tribal communities the rights to manage and benefit from local wildlife tourism. Today, 86 conservancies cover nearly 20% of the land and generate over $10 million annually. The Philippines embraced ecotourism as a jobs strategy. Through its Green Jobs Act (2016), it trained locals as reef protectors and eco-guides, proving that conservation can be a viable livelihood. India: From Hidden Potential to Global Leader India’s greatest advantage lies in its villages, more than 6.5 lakh of them, home to 65% of the country’s population. These rural landscapes are not just geographical entities; they are cultural and ecological treasure troves. They hold traditional wisdom, diverse biodiversity, and the human potential to steward both. Recent government efforts such as the National Strategy for Promotion of Rural Homestays (2022), Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD schemes, and the inclusion of a Rural Tourism section on the Incredible India portal show encouraging momentum. Over 300 eco-villages and circuits have been developed. However, the benefits remain uneven, concentrated in a few states and urban centers. State-Level Sparks of Success States like Kerala, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and Meghalaya offer homegrown models of success. Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Mission has trained more than 20,000 families, revitalizing local economies and curbing outmigration. Mountain Shepherds in Uttarakhand and Sundarbans Jungle Camp in West Bengal showcase models that centre ecology, community ownership, and cultural storytelling. The ABC Formula: India’s Ecotourism Action Plan To truly lead globally, India must adopt a livelihood-first approach that sees ecology and economy as partners. This begins with the ABC Formula, Action, Backing, and Convergence: 1. Catalyst Capital Dedicate a share of tourism budgets to a Community Ecotourism Fund that empowers rural entrepreneurs. Even a modest, sustained national allocation, like Costa Rica’s approach (0.3% GDP in their case), can unleash a powerful multiplier effect across rural India. 2. National Ecotourism Skilling Portal Launch vernacular-language training in eco-guiding, cultural hospitality, and digital marketing, designed for diverse geographies. 3. Convergence with Flagship Schemes Integrate ecotourism with MGNREGA, PMGSY, NRLM, and Digital India to improve infrastructure, access, and entrepreneurial support. 4. Ecotourism Cooperatives Strengthening community-owned collectives to manage pricing, storytelling, and visitor experience ensuring transparency and equitable income. 5. Real-Time Ecotourism Dashboard Deploy a dynamic MIS system to track revenue, jobs, and ecological impact enabling better governance and CSR alignment. 6. Ecotourism Mission Cell Establish a dedicated body within the Ministry of Tourism to coordinate multi- stakeholder action and ensure long-term impact. India’s time is now. Ecotourism is not only about showcasing pristine landscapes, it’s about building local leadership, strengthening self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) and shaping a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future. As we move toward Viksit Bharat 2047, ecotourism could become one of India’s most transformative development tools.

WELCOME TO THE CLIMATE PROJECT FOUNDATION OUR CLIMATE IS CHANGING, SO SHOULD WE | TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE Human caused climate change is one of the biggest, most pervasive threats in the world and South Asia is amongst the most vulnerable region to impacts of climate change. Now, the onus is on us to act and mitigate the impacts of climate change for a better future for the upcoming generations. We believe that the simplest path to act on climate change is by collective committed actions however small. We have strategically aligned all our initiatives in order to create awareness, mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change and create leaders of the future who will be taking the baton fighting the cause. Our programmes and initiatives like Green Campus Program, Tree Plantation, Water Conservation, Teachers’ Training Program, all have been developed keeping the same in view. “Solving the climate crisis is within our grasp, but we need people like you to stand up and act” - AL GORE OUR IMPACTS 20000+ Teachers Trained 1600+ Climate Reality Leaders in India & South Asia 200000+ Trees Planted 56000+ Climate Reality Leaders, Globally STUDENTS CLIMATE ACTION CONFERENCE 2025 The Students Climate Action Conference 2025 awards ceremony brought together young climate leaders from four key states—Odisha, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, along with participants from other regions through a hybrid format. Held on 22 November 2025, the offline conferences in Bhubaneswar, Gurgaon, Chennai, and Noida served as vibrant hubs of youth-led climate dialogue. Students presented short, research-based videos highlighting local climate vulnerabilities, sparking dynamic discussions with experts and peers. The model enabled rich, ground-level insights ranging from sea-level rise impacts in coastal Odisha to extreme weather, biodiversity loss, and urban challenges identified across Northern and Southern states. The conference culminated in an online national round on 25 November 2025, connecting participants from West Bengal, Kashmir, Telangana, Ambala, and Maharashtra. With 177 schools and 550 students participating across eight states, the event showcased powerful climate storytelling, deep community engagement, and practical solutions proposed by students. More than a competition, the conference became a platform for awareness, collaboration, and youth leadership, demonstrating how informed young voices can drive meaningful climate action at the grassroots level and across regions. YOUTH VOICES FOR COP30 As COP30 unfolds in Belém, our Youth for COP 2025 participants are bringing fresh perspectives to the global stage through their insightful blogs. Representing countries like India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Dominican Republic, they share how national priorities and community realities intersect with global climate negotiations. Each piece captures the pulse of the talks, on-ground climate actions, and the human stories behind policy decisions, amplifying youth voices from South Asia and beyond to the world. Through their reflections, the participants are pushing the envelope for world leaders to act with urgency and equity. Their blogs explore what COP30 outcomes mean for climate justice, adaptation, and sustainable futures, offering readers a glimpse into the conference through a youth lens that is passionate, informed, and committed to driving change. Read the Blogs INSPIRING ACTION AT THE ICSE At the International Conference for Sustainability Education (ICSE), Climate Reality India & South Asia set up an interactive stall that drew the attention of educators, students, and youth leaders. The stall showcased our flagship Climate Change Education programs including the Green Campus Programme, Teachers’ Training Program, and youth-led initiatives such as Youth for COP and Youth for Earth. Visitors showed keen interest in learning more and expressed their enthusiasm to join these initiatives, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainability in education. Adding to the excitement, our engaging Climate Warrior Quiz tested participants’ knowledge on sustainable lifestyles and climate solutions. Those who scored 60% and above proudly earned a “Climate Warrior” badge, celebrating their awareness and commitment to climate action. The stall not only informed but also inspired, creating meaningful conversations around how schools, teachers, and young people can work together to build a more sustainable future. GCP: Campus in Spotlight The Mann School – A Platinum-Rated Green Campus The Mann School stands out as a model for environmental responsibility, holding a platinum rating under the Green Campus Program. The school integrates sustainability into all aspects of campus life, from water and energy conservation to waste and air quality management. Key initiatives include rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and swimming pool water recycling. Energy is conserved through solar panels, LED lighting, and natural ventilation in buildings, particularly the eco-conscious Girl’s Hostel. The campus is rich in biodiversity, with a mini forest, orchard, and regular tree plantation drives. Boarding students plant saplings on their birthdays—building a personal connection to nature. The school has banned single-use plastic and manages waste via composting, paper mache from waste paper, and segregation with color-coded bins. Students are also encouraged to reuse textbooks, avoid food waste, and maintain cleanliness. Air pollution is addressed through the use of CNG buses, smokeless chulhas, and a carpooling policy for staff. These holistic efforts not only make The Mann School environmentally sustainable but also nurture a generation of climate-conscious students. BLOGS Climate Finance – The way forward for India and the Global South At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, India has emerged as a leading voice for climate justice, championing equitable and accountable climate finance. Representing the Like-Minded Developing Countries (LMDCs)—a bloc that speaks for over half the world’s population—India has forcefully articulated the urgent need for predictable, transparent, and legally binding financial support from developed nations. India’s climate finance journey has been built on a decade of persistent advocacy. Wh Rajshri Deshmukh Feb 23 India’s Ecotourism Moment: A Green Path to Global Leadership A global wave of responsible, experience-driven travel is lifting ecotourism from the fringes to the forefront of the tourism industry. According to the UNWTO, ecotourism accounted for nearly 25% of global tourism revenue in 2024. Allied Market Research projects the global ecotourism market, valued at $210.4 billion in 2023, will grow to $829.8 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 11.7%. Nearly 45% of these destinations are located in rural areas—underscoring the transformative pote Pooja Chopra Jan 14 FOR US, ADAPTATION IS NOT OPTIONAL—IT IS A MATTER OF SURVIVAL I am from Honduras, which is considered as one of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world, even though it contributes almost nothing to global emissions. Here climate change is a reality that shapes our daily lives in our food supply, our economy and our safety. Over the past few years, we have been through hurricanes that left us incredible damages such as floods and climate driven displacement. For us adaptation is not optional, it is a matter of survival. Hondur Suyapa Rodriguez | Youth 4 COP Participant Dec 23, 2025 1 2 3 4 5 CLIMATE ACTION STORIES 8800 KILOMETRES ON BIODIESEL By CRL Avinash Narayanswamy Worldwide, biodiesel has slowly but surely gained importance as a green alternative to petroleum diesel & is thus being accepted as an environmentally friendly fuel. However, in spite of closely being related to petroleum diesel in terms of physical & chemical properties, biodiesel continues to be sidelined in many parts of the world & especially in India mainly due to various reasons such as pricing, availability & warranty on the engine & other parts of the car not being covered when switched to biodiesel from petroleum diesel. Read More EVENTS Ambition to Action: Climathon Delhi Sat, 21 Feb TERI School Of Advanced Studies Details Internation Youth & Sustainability Festival Fri, 20 Feb Symbiosis Kopou Hostel Road Details Teachers Skillshare Program on Sustainability Sat, 07 Feb The Mann School Details World Wetlands Day Mon, 03 Feb Webinar Details International Eco-Visionary Dialogue on Advancing Sustainable Urban Future: Roadmap to COP29 Wed, 09 Oct Webinar Details Youth 4 COP - Session 5 Sat, 10 Aug Online Conference Learn more Green Campus Conclave Wed, 07 Aug St. Teresa's Girl's Secondary School Learn more Youth 4 COP - Session 4 Sat, 03 Aug Webinar Learn more Youth 4 COP - Session 3 Sat, 27 Jul Zoom Learn more 9th National Youth Conference on Climate Change Fri, 26 Jul National Electricity Authority Training Learn more Students Climate Action Conference 2024 Tue, 23 Jul Webinar Learn more Students Climate Action Conference 2024 Tue, 16 Jul Zoom Event Details Green Campus Conclave Fri, 05 Jul Neeri Auditorium, Nagpur Details World Environment Day Wed, 05 Jun Zoom Event Learn more Green Campus Awareness Programme Wed, 05 Jun New Delhi Learn more World Environment Day 2024 Wed, 05 Jun Lord Buddha Secondary School বিশ্ব পরিবেশ দিবস Wed, 05 Jun Abdus Somed High School World Environment Day Wed, 05 Jun Abdus Somed High School Learn more Load More LEAD ON CLIMATE CHANGE SPREAD THE WORD ON CLIMATE CHANGE Download Truth in 10 Presentation to spread awareness about Climate Change. CALL FOR A PRESENTATION Request a free presentation on Climate Change. STAY UPDATED Read our Bimonthly Newsletter 2025 (NOVEMBER - DECEMBER)

Newsletter (May-June 2025) Our newsletter provides updates on our programs, and fellow Climate Reality Leaders who are making a difference. It carries a gamut of activities carried out in two months' time, showing how each one of us can act to solve the crisis together. We would love to hear from you, your story and acts of leadership in the journey of sustainability. Every action matters! CLIMATE CHANGE EDUCATION PROGRAMME Green Campus Programme Awards to HEIs The Green Campus Programme (GCP) – HEI Award, announced on 23rd May 2025, recognized GD Goenka University, Gurugram and MIT Art, Design and Technology University, Pune with the Gold Category Award for their outstanding sustainability efforts. Based on a detailed evaluation aligned with the GCP Activity and Audit Book, both institutions showcased exemplary green practices and received certificates and trophies for their achievements. A physical award ceremony was held at GD Goenka University on 2nd June 2025, where Mr. Bhavesh Swami from The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) presented the award. University representatives shared their positive experiences with the programme, while Mr. Swami commended their environmental leadership, encouraging continued action toward sustainable campuses. Principals’ Conclave Ignites Green Commitment on World Environment Day On the occasion of World Environment Day, The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) and Shri Swami Vivekanand Shikshan Sanstha (SVSS) jointly organized a dynamic Principals’ Conclave on 5th June 2025 at Vivekanand College, Kolhapur. With 39 participants representing 20 campuses, the event focused on the theme “Climate Education and Green Campuses for a Safer Planet.” The day featured thought-provoking sessions by Mr. Ganesh Satav and Dr. Sudhir Kumbhar, covering the science of climate change, the importance of environmental education, and the introduction of the Green Campus Programme (GCP). The conclave inspired participants to actively integrate sustainability into their educational institutions. Special dignitaries including Mr. Abhaykumar Salunkhe – Executive President, SVSS and Mr. Ram Salunkhe – President of Vidya Samiti, SVSS, emphasized the leadership role educators must play in shaping a climate-resilient future. With enthusiastic feedback and a collective commitment from all attending campuses to initiate the GCP journey, the conclave marked a powerful step toward embedding climate action into the core of institutional practices. Empowering Educators: Climate Workshop at MM Public School, Delhi On 31st May 2025, The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia conducted a dynamic teacher training workshop at MM Public School, Pitampura, Delhi, as part of the Green Campus Program. The session aimed to equip educators with the knowledge and tools to become sustainability champions within their schools and communities. The workshop saw an enthusiastic participation of 57 teachers, who engaged in insightful discussions and hands-on activities focused on climate change, water conservation, and waste management. Ms. Rekha Lalla led the session, highlighting the role of teachers as climate mentors and the importance of embedding sustainability in everyday classroom practices. Participants received specially curated teaching tools, including activity sheets and audit templates, to help integrate climate education into subjects like science, geography, and civics. Practical demonstrations on waste segregation and school greening audits added a valuable experiential layer to the session. GCP SCHOOLS IN ACTION Wetland Restoration Drive at Hokersar, Kashmir In April 2025, student volunteers from GBHSS Zainakote, in collaboration with The Climate Reality Project India, took part in a wetland restoration drive at the Hokersar Ramsar site in Kashmir. The initiative began with an engaging awareness session led by environmental science lecturer Ms. Nyla Ali, highlighting the ecological importance of wetlands. Following the session, students carried out a cleanup along the wetland banks, removing plastic and solid waste while documenting pollutants. The drive not only strengthened their understanding of wetland conservation but also inspired collective responsibility towards protecting natural ecosystems. The Great Himalayan Cleanup Drive, Darjeeling On 31st May 2025, over 300 volunteers, including students, teachers, and local NGOs, came together for the Great Himalayan Cleanup Drive at Observatory Hill (Mahakal Mandir), Darjeeling. Led by Climate Reality Leader Ms. Kamlesh Rai and supported by The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia, the initiative aimed to combat plastic pollution in fragile mountain ecosystems. Volunteers cleaned a 1-km stretch, conducted waste segregation and brand audits, and spread community awareness through cultural engagement. Recyclables were sent to Tieedi waste center, while organic waste was composted on-site, showcasing a powerful model of community-driven environmental action in the heart of the Himalayas. CLIMATE CHANGE ENGAGEMENTS & ADVOCACY Celebrating World Environment Day with Youth for Earth On 7th June 2025, The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia, in collaboration with the Mobius Foundation, hosted a vibrant webinar titled “Celebrating the World Environment with Youth for Earth”. The event brought together over 186 participants from across India and South Asia, including students, educators, and Youth for Earth (Y4E) participants, to mark World Environment Day and deepen understanding on the theme of plastic pollution. The session featured powerful insights from experts like Dr. Ram Boojh, Ms. Anuja Bali, and Ms. Shreya Das, who addressed the global plastic crisis and the role of youth in driving sustainable change. Highlights included a keynote on the history of WED, a motivational showcase of a Y4E award-winning project, and a detailed orientation on the Y4E submission process by Dr. Bhagyashree Kesharwani. The webinar was facilitated by Ms. Riya Deb and concluded with an engaging Q&A and a brief introduction to the Youth for COP initiative by Dr. Amruta Deshmukh, further encouraging young climate leaders to participate in global climate advocacy. CLIMATE REALITY LEADERS- HIGHLIGHTS Sowing Seeds of Climate Resilience Across Punjab In the heart of Punjab, a different kind of seed was sown this Environment Day — one of awareness, action and hope. Nikita Singla, our newly trained Climate Reality Leader, carried the message of climate responsibility forward by leading a session on Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies. Part of a three-day Faculty Development Programme titled Green Resilience: Environmental Skills for Crisis Response, her session engaged 55 government school educators in exploring ways to bring climate action into their classrooms and communities. The programme concluded with a tree plantation drive and a collective promise to stay involved in environmental efforts. Bridging Audits and Environment: A Dialogue for Change On June 25, 2025, Dr. Vivek Trivedi and Dr. Pooja Chopra were invited by the Principal Accountant General (Audit), Punjab, to contribute to a significant discussion on improving the impact of environmental audits. As National Coordinators for Resilience and Biodiversity, they brought their on-ground experience to a conclave themed Enhancing the Impact of Audit Reports in Strengthening Governance. Their session focused on Pressing Environmental Concerns in Punjab and the Role of Audit, highlighting how environmental assessments can be better understood and used in shaping policy and driving reform. The dialogue created a space for exchange between audit professionals and governance stakeholders, emphasising the need to translate audit findings into actionable steps for stronger systems and more responsive governance. Checkout Our Previous Newsletters 2022 2022 2023 2023 2024 2024 2025 2025 September - October Newsletter 2022 November - December Newsletter 2022 January - February Newsletter 2023 March - April Newsletter 2023 May - June Newsletter 2023 July - August Newsletter 2023 September - October Newsletter 2023 November - December Newsletter 2023 January - February Newsletter 2024 March - April Newsletter 2024 May - June Newsletter 2024 July - August Newsletter 2024 September - October Newsletter 2024 November - December Newsletter 2024 January - February Newsletter 2025 March - April Newsletter 2025

Newsletter (September-October 2025) Our newsletter provides updates on our programs, and fellow Climate Reality Leaders who are making a difference. It carries a gamut of activities carried out in two months' time, showing how each one of us can act to solve the crisis together. We would love to hear from you, your story and acts of leadership in the journey of sustainability. Every action matters! CLIMATE CHANGE EDUCATION PROGRAMME Celebrating Green Champions: GCP Awards (Second Edition – 2025) The Green Campus Programme (GCP) proudly announced the second edition of the 2025 GCP Awards, honouring campuses that have shown exceptional leadership in sustainability and climate action. On 1st October 2025, 15 schools from across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra were recognized for their outstanding commitment to green initiatives and climate education. Through the Green Campus Programme, these campuses have demonstrated how consistent efforts ranging from waste management and biodiversity conservation to energy efficiency and student-led climate action can create measurable environmental impact. The programme continues to nurture a growing community of educators and students working together for a more sustainable future. Click to view the list of GCP winners PLATINUM AWARD WINNERS Adarsh Public School C-Block, Vikaspuri, New Delhi Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s Atmakuri Ramarao School Road No. 45 (End), Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana GOLD AWARD WINNERS Abdul Ahad Azad Memorial Degree College Bemina, Srinagar, J&K Delhi Modern Public School Pampore Dobhibagh Krenchoo Pampore, Kashmir Delhi Public School, Gautam Buddh Nagar B-1, Sector 132, Noida Expressway, Uttar Pradesh Govt. Boys Higher Secondary School, Khrew Pampore Pulwama, J&K Govt. Degree College for Women, Anantnag Qazi Bagh, K.P. Road, Anantnag, J&K MAAER’S MIT Vishwashanti Gurukul School Behind Swimming Pool Complex, Rajbaugh, Loni Kalbhor, Pune, Maharashtra RIDGE School NH-44, Lakshmipuram, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh RMK Senior Secondary School RSM Nagar, Sundaracholapuram Road, Thiruverkadu, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600077 SILVER AWARD WINNERS Govt. Girls Higher Secondary School Exchange Rd, near BSNL Office, Kothi Bagh, Srinagar, J&K Mount Columbus School C – Block, Dakshin Puri, New Delhi – 110062 St. Joseph's School North Point North Point, Singamari, Darjeeling, West Bengal – 734104 Rahul Model Public School Sadh Nagar II, Palam, Delhi – 110045 Govt. Girls Higher Secondary Institute, Nishat Nishat, Srinagar, Kashmir Close Principals’ conclave for Rayat Shikshan Sanstha’s 50 campuses The Principals’ Conclave on “Climate Education and Green Campuses for a Safer Planet” was held on 17th September 2025 at Jijamata Junior College of Education, Satara. Organized for 50 campuses under Rayat Shikshan Sanstha, the event aimed to introduce the Green Campus Programme (GCP) and emphasize the role of educational leaders in advancing sustainability and climate action. The conclave featured sessions by Mr. B. N. Pawar, Mr. Ganesh Jagdale, Mr. Ganesh Satav, and Dr. Sudhir Kumbhar, who shared insights on climate education, sustainable practices, and effective programme implementation at the institutional level. The event witnessed active participation from 48 principals, engaging in discussions and interactive sessions focused on practical approaches to building greener campuses. The conclave strengthened collaboration between Rayat Shikshan Sanstha and The Climate Project Foundation, setting a strong foundation for the rollout of the Green Campus Programme across Maharashtra. Principals expressed enthusiasm to lead sustainability initiatives within their institutions and foster climate consciousness among students and staff. GCP Initiative Inspires Plastic-Free Diwali As part of the Green Campus Programme (GCP) initiative, Swami Vivekanand Shikshan Sanstha, Kolhapur, organized a Lantern-Making Workshop on 4th October 2025 to promote a plastic-free and sustainable Diwali. Conducted across four campuses, the workshop encouraged students to create festive lanterns using paper and recyclable materials, blending creativity with climate consciousness. Guided by teachers, students crafted over 500 lanterns, showcasing how simple actions can lead to meaningful environmental impact. The activity, held as a follow-up to the hands-on GCP training across 19 campuses, extended the message of sustainability into students’ homes and communities. By celebrating with handmade, waste-free decorations, participants not only embraced eco-friendly practices but also became ambassadors for sustainable living, lighting up their surroundings with awareness and change. Principals’ Conclave Assam The Principals’ Conclave held on 9th–10th October 2025 at Bhattadev University, Pathsala, Assam, brought together around 20 Principals and Vice-Principals from Bhattadev University and its affiliated colleges. Organized in collaboration with Mahabahu Climate Forum, the event aimed to build faculty capacity on climate science and sustainability while introducing the Green Campus Programme (GCP) as a structured framework for campus-level climate action. The presence of the Deputy Commissioner of Bajali District underscored the growing administrative commitment to climate-responsive education. The conclave featured insightful addresses by Dr. Dhanapati Deka, Vice Chancellor of Bhattadev University, and Mr. Mridul Kumar Das, Deputy Commissioner, Bajali District, followed by a keynote presentation from Mr. Aditya Pundir, Director, The Climate Project Foundation. His session outlined GCP’s alignment with national sustainability goals such as Mission LiFE and NAAC guidelines. Adding regional perspectives, speakers including Mr. Rituraj Phukan, Mr. Anjan Sarma, and Mr. Sanjeev Sarma highlighted Assam’s unique climate challenges and the role of academia in driving solutions. The two-day event concluded with a workshop on Media Advocacy and Environmental Justice, engaging students and faculty in strengthening climate communication and youth-led action. MoU Signing and Faculty Development Session at Vivekanand Global University, Jaipur The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Vivekanand Global University (VGU), Jaipur, on 14 October 2025, marking the beginning of collaboration under the Green Campus Programme (GCP). The ceremony was graced by Dr. D.V.S. Bhagavanulu, Pro-President of VGU, and facilitated by Climate Reality Leader and CEO of ACIC VGU, Mr. Gaurav Sharma. Representing TCPF, Mr. Bhavesh Swami led the MoU signing and delivered an engaging session on Climate Change and Solutions, emphasizing youth leadership and institutional responsibility in advancing sustainability. Over 60 faculty members participated in the Faculty Development Session, actively engaging in discussions on climate awareness, sustainable practices, and the GCP implementation roadmap. Prof. Kailash Aggarwal, Dean of Faculty – Applied Sciences, commended the initiative, noting its alignment with NAAC Criterion 7 and its relevance for institutional sustainability missions. He encouraged faculty members to initiate committee formation and further sessions for faculty and students to carry forward the Green Campus vision. CLIMATE CHANGE ENGAGEMENTS & ADVOCACY Joined hands with Global Shapers for shaping climate future Global Shapers, a vibrant community of young changemakers who continue to ignite bold ideas and initiatives shaping our shared future. As part of this movement, the Jaipur Hub, led by Gaurav Sharma (Climate Reality Leader and CEO of VGU Incubation Centre), partnered with us to host a landmark event on October 7, 2025, marking the launch of the Shape South Asia report. The gathering brought together over 200 Shapers from across Asia, fostering dialogue, collaboration, and renewed commitment to climate action. We proudly showcased our Green Education Initiatives for schools and universities, which received enthusiastic engagement from participants. The event also featured a session for early-stage entrepreneurs and recent graduates, exploring emerging career opportunities in climate tech and sustainability innovation. These exchanges sparked curiosity and encouraged youth-led solutions. The celebration concluded with a heartfelt tribute to women-led enterprises transforming rural Rajasthan, honouring their resilience, leadership, and impact in driving inclusive climate solutions. CLIMATE REALITY LEADERS- HIGHLIGHTS Launch of ‘Rise of the Reef campaign Varsha Rajkhowa, Climate Reality Leader, National Director of Miss SCUBA India, and winner of Miss SCUBA International 2016 has launched an inspiring international initiative titled Rise of the Reef, focused on restoring coral reefs and mangrove ecosystems. The project commenced its first restoration effort on Usukan Island, Borneo, Malaysia, in collaboration with One Ocean Empire, an organization dedicated to marine conservation on September 6th 2025. The initiative also received support from OCBC Malaysia, one of the region’s leading banks. In a conversation with The Climate Project Foundation, Ms. Rajkhowa shared: “Rise of the Reef is more than just an environmental initiative—it’s a call to action. Our mission is to restore and protect some of the planet’s most vital coastal ecosystems: coral reefs and mangroves. These habitats are not only biodiversity hotspots but also natural barriers that protect shorelines, support fisheries, and help combat climate change.” Igniting Climate Consciousness: Deep Dive at TERI SAS Shivkumar Krishnamoorthy, a passionate Climate Reality Leader from the 2025 cohort, continues to champion decarbonization, nature-based solutions, and climate innovation. Recently, he led a dynamic 90-minute session at the TERI School of Advanced Studies, Delhi, engaging over 60 students in discussions on the history of the environmental movement, industrial decarbonization, and the role of nature-based solutions in reversing climate trends. The session received an enthusiastic response, with many students staying back for deeper conversations and volunteering to join Shivkumar’s upcoming climate outreach stall at the IIM Lucknow Sustainability Conclave, reflecting the growing energy of youth-led climate action. Launch of the New Reality Hub! We’re excited to announce the launch of the new Reality Hub—a dedicated platform for Climate Reality Leaders to connect, collaborate, and stay informed. We encourage all our leaders to register, share their inspiring work, and engage with the wider network. The Hub serves as a one-stop knowledge repository to showcase initiatives, exchange ideas, and access the latest updates from Climate Reality. 👉 Join the India & South Asia Hub here- Click here Checkout Our Previous Newsletters 2022 2022 2023 2023 2024 2024 2025 2025 September - October Newsletter 2022 November - December Newsletter 2022 January - February Newsletter 2023 March - April Newsletter 2023 May - June Newsletter 2023 July - August Newsletter 2023 September - October Newsletter 2023 November - December Newsletter 2023 January - February Newsletter 2024 March - April Newsletter 2024 May - June Newsletter 2024 July - August Newsletter 2024 September - October Newsletter 2024 November - December Newsletter 2024 January - February Newsletter 2025 March - April Newsletter 2025 May - June Newsletter 2025 July - August Newsletter 2025