Jammu and Kashmir, the picturesque heaven on Earth is not spared from the wrath of climate change. They grapple with severe environmental degradation, largely attributed to human activities like deforestation, vehicular pollution, and industrialization, resulting in pollution and biodiversity loss. According to a study, approximately 14,000 hectares of forest area have been encroached upon, constituting just 10.46% of the region. Image Courtesy: Mohd. Rashid, Pixabay Jammu and Kashmir, the picturesque heaven on Earth is not spared from the wrath of climate change. They grapple with severe environmental degradation, largely attributed to human activities like deforestation, vehicular pollution, and industrialization, resulting in pollution and biodiversity loss. According to a study, approximately 14,000 hectares of forest area have been encroached upon, constituting just 10.46% of the region. Water pollution with human and animal waste disposal degrading the water quality, and shrinking water bodies have become significant concerns. Glacial melting adversely impacts food, water, and energy sectors, a consequence of greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel usage. The region, deemed as an "eco-fragile zone," faces challenges from global warming, unplanned urbanization, and encroachment on water bodies, as outlined in the J&K Environmental Policy, 2018. Addressing these issues necessitates widespread environmental education for ecological restoration. However, on the other hand, we have with us Sheezana Rasool from Kashmir, who has beautifully narrated that despite all the challenges, Kashmir also has a sustainable facet. Let’s hear more from Sheezan. “Agar firdaus bar-rū-e-zamīñ ast hamīñ ast o hamīñ ast o hamīñ ast” ― Amir Khusrau Around the 13th century, a famous Persian poet said of Kashmir, "If there is a paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this." This statement still holds true even today and is reverberated by the travelers who come to experience nature in its most exquisite form in the center of the Himalayas. We live in the 21st century where technology, bioweapons and artificial intelligence is trending. Climate change is happening and people adapting more sustainable ways of living is the only way we can lessen the human made burden on the environment. Images' Courtesy: Author Some of the Kashmir's cultural and traditional practices are enduring and could serve as models for other cultures to adopt. Of the total population of Jammu and Kashmir state, around 72.62% live in rural areas (Census 2011). Therefore, agriculture takes the front seat in terms of occupation besides other sources of earning. Consequently, most of the households have a kitchen garden also. This reduces the visits to the market and makes one shop less which is one of the best sustainability examples in everyday life. However, the climate change has affected the Kashmir’s Agriculture industry is no less than others. Images' Courtesy: Author With reduction in rainfall, the rain-fed agriculture will suffer the most. Horticultural crops like apple are also showing decline in production and a real coverage particularly due to decline in snowfall thermal stress effects, on livestock productivity has its effects. Nearly 1 million families are associated with Kashmir's $1.25-million apple industry as per a study. This major industry in the area has suffered a serious setback due to an almost 30% fall in apple production, leaving farming families with enormous debts (climate change imperils Kashmiri apples, 18 august 2022, DW). Image Courtesy: Author Vulnerability Profiling and Climate Sensitivity along with climate change projections of the J&K needs to be undertaken for better understanding of the climate issues confronting J&K. Weddings are an integral part of every society. The event generally involves several hundred to thousand people. Aah, we cannpt miss our favourite Wazwaan!! Image Courtesy: Author Therefore, making weddings sustainable is equally important. Fortunately, Kashmiri weddings are as sustainable as they are lavish. Owing to our Persian ancestor Syed Ali Hamdani all the meals in a Kashmiri wedding are served in a traditional Trami which is a big round copper plate in which four people eat together (Copper Crafts: Traditional Kashmiri Utensils, march 16 2022, Nation First). This eliminates the need for disposables and can be used repeatedly after washing. Image Courtesy: Author Even in homes food is served in copper utensils only. Plates, bowls, jugs, glasses, spoons etc. everything is made from copper and used from one generation to another. This reduces the need for shopping because they are immune to breakage and spoilage and passed on from one generation to another. Another example of a sustainable culture from Kashmir is the local bread called ‘cxhouth’ that is consumed by the people of Kashmir. Every lane in Kashmir has its own bread maker who is called a ‘Kaandur’. Fresh bread is prepared every day and consumed by the people in same day. As a result, people do not consume the packaged breads therefore considerably reducing the need for plastic packaging. In fact, all the bakery in Kashmir which includes different types of kulchas, baker khani, biscuits, etc. is locally made and sold as such without any packaging while maintaining the hygiene and food safety. We rely a lot on local produces, locally transported and local vendors; hence adding to carbon neutrality/ net zero approach. Consequently, less preservation, refrigeration, packaging, disposal, etc. is required. People therefore favour locally produced, freshly manufactured goods over those that are packaged. In fact, it's unusual to see a Kashmiri purchasing a packet of bread. In our daily lives there is so much that we can do to save our environment and our dear planet by making informed choices about the same. The idea of sustenance simply means everyone is taken care of. Image Courtesy: Author By thinking equally about the interests of our own selves and those we think we have nothing to do with we can promise a better future for us and those who would come from us in the times to come. The ecosystem that sustains us is a combination of things which functions when every part is right in its place. By taking care of some other component we are actually taking care of our own selves and that’s the beauty of nature ‘You are receiving what you are giving away’. Sheezana Rasool About the Author Sheezana Rasool is an agricultural scientist pioneering change at the nexus of science, women's health, and social activism, particularly in conflict-ridden areas like her native Kashmir. Armed with an M.Sc in Agricultural Sciences, she employs cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize farming in South Asian countries facing climate vulnerabilities. Ms. Sheezana passionately dismantles barriers hindering women's progress in marginalized communities. Coming from Kashmir, she understands the impact of socio-political instability, especially on women. Her journey began with a vision to turn adversity into opportunity, implementing innovative farming techniques to enhance crop yields and environmental sustainability in conflict zones. Beyond agriculture, Ms. Sheezana advocates fiercely for menstrual health in regions where such conversations are often silenced. Recognizing the challenges faced by women in conflict zones, she demystifies menstrual health, providing hygiene resources, benefiting nearly 500,000 women and challenging cultural taboos. In 2017, Ms. Sheezana founded the non-profit "Agaaz International," leading initiatives for women's empowerment in minority groups, tribals, and border residents. Through education, vocational training, and healthcare programs, the organization fosters self-reliance and resilience, narrowing the gender gap. Under her leadership, Agaaz International has made significant strides, empowering women to become community leaders through partnerships and grassroots efforts. Sheezana Rasool's story illustrates the transformative power of merging scientific expertise with a commitment to social justice. Her impact extends globally, inspiring change because she believes that every life must matter, irrespective of religion, creed, or gender. References 1. https://www.census2011.co.in/census/state/jammu+and+kashmir.html 2. https://www.dw.com/en/how-climate-change-threatens-kashmirs-crucialapple-industry/a-62849026 3. https://indianationfirst.in/art-culture-jammu-kashmir/copper-crafts-traditional-kashmiri-utensils/#:~:text=It%20is%20believed%20that%20copperware%20was%20intr

In the heart of Kashmir, often known as heaven on earth, lies a land of serene valleys, towering mountains, and meandering streams, adding an exquisite charm to this earthly paradise. Living amid such breathtaking beauty is an experience, for “they say we are a reflection of our surroundings”. Presenting Parvaiz Yousuf, a Kashmiri Kashur, who will share his lens with you while travelling through time machine and show you glimpses of his childhood in Kashmir, while narrating how Kashmir was then and now. Image Courtesy: Parvaiz Yousuf “Pampore, my beloved hometown nestled amidst saffron fields, has been the cradle of my existence that has shaped me into who I am today,” shares Parvaiz. In his blog he mentions that surrounded by the majestic Zabarwan mountains, with four serene satellite wetlands just a leisurely stroll away, his village exudes the very essence of nature's beauty. As he recounts his childhood and begins the narration, you'll find that every memory is intricately woven with the tapestry of nature. Parvaiz is enthusiastic about avians since his childhood. He has authored an informative book, “Birds of Jammu & Kashmir,” which is about different bird species found in Kashmir. While going through his article, I came across an instance where he shares that in the heart of Pampore, within the expansive embrace of the Chatlam Wetland Reserve (CWR), he has witnessed a grand congregation of migratory birds that would grace the wetland with their unique calls and vibrant plumage. I can imagine the awe-struck sight of it, but think, he witnessed it. Amazing! Image Courtesy: Parvaiz Yousuf He mentions that he learnt the English names of the birds during his Master's Degree in Zoology, Central University of Kashmir. He shares a personal connection with Mallard (Pachun/ “Aasmaen Batuk” in Kashmiri) and Greylag goose (Anser anser). Greylag geese are large grey geese with a pinkish-orange bill and pink legs. “I’ve heard most stories about them from my grandfather,” he shared. Talking about sustainability and tourism, he mentions that the natural biodiversity of the lake has a lot of potential for bird tourism. In 2013, the administration transferred the management of Pampore's four wetland reserves: Chatlam Wetlands Reserve, Fashkoori Wetlands Reserve, Manibaug Wetlands Reserve, and Krenchoo Wetlands Reserve, to the Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife Department, pushing forward the agenda of ushering in an era of ecotourism. While talking about his favourite pastime i.e., Fishing, he shares that the trickiest part of it was crafting the fishing rods ("Brislai"). The main species of fish found in the lake were Common Carp, Grass Carp, and Schizothorax (Kashir Gaad in Kashmiri), Gambusia in a very few numbers. His inclination towards saffron cultivation is incomparable. Right from the childhood, he was taught how to pluck “Kong Posh” (Kashmiri name of saffron flowers). Regrettably, this cherished place has gradually waned due to floods, change in the temperatures, climate and much more. However, the beauty persists, and naturalists like Parvaiz and many are trying their best to protect and preserve nature in its as much as unbridled form and spreading the word. Come, embark on this journey through Parvaiz’s formative years, where Kashmir’s nature influenced his upbringing and way of thinking as an ever-present companion. Click below to read his story, “A Childhood in Pampore, Kashmir = Tying Knot with Nature Early On!” (Image Courtesy: Parvaiz Yousuf) Get to know about Kashmir's natural richness through the lens of Parvaiz's childhood and enjoy your time-travel with him. Read his narrative article here. Authors: Author of the Article, “A Childhood in Pampore, Kashmir = Tying Knot with Nature Early On!”: Parvaiz Yousuf Parvaiz Yousuf is an author, consultant TCRP, SEO writer, birder, researcher, and science journalist hailing from Pampore, Kashmir. He holds a master’s degree in Zoology from Central University of Kashmir and has an abiding interest in the field of ornithology. Parvaiz also works as a Director of the Wetland Research Centre Wildlife Conservation Fund and aims to pursue a Ph.D. in ornithology. As a child, he grew up near serene Pampore wetlands, which host thousands of migratory birds every year. He also has around a dozen publications in some reputed journals such as Nature, IJMS, BNHS, etc. Author of the Blog: Smruti S Samantray Smruti, a Climate Reality Mentor trained by Nobel Laureate Al Gore in 2015, brings over 11 years of corporate and marketing communication expertise. Her efforts span sustainability education, youth mobilization, and community outreach. She's authored 3500+ articles and research papers on subjects from sustainability to education, and review 100+ books. Smruti holds a Master's Degree in Journalism, a PGD in Urban Environment Management and Law, and a Master's in International Business. She's received awards like "Exceptional Women of Excellence 2018" and is committed to journalism, climate change, and early childhood education. Beyond her work, Smruti enjoys art, poetry, music, and cooking.

Image Courtesy: Pexels Farm-to-fashion represents a transformative shift in the fashion industry towards sustainability and ethical practices. This approach prioritizes environmentally responsible sourcing, local production, and a transparent supply chain. It intersects with sustainable fashion, mainly through three broader ways: local sourcing, eco-friendly farming, and skill-building. This approach emphasizes the use of locally grown materials, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation, supporting nearby farms & local communities, while reducing reliance on global supply chains. In terms of farming, organic and regenerative farming methods promote healthy soil and biodiversity. By upskilling people to produce nature-based dyes, methods and textiles, the gap between demand and supply can be met. This approach not only ensures the quality of the materials but also reduces environmental impact, making farm-to-fashion a powerful driver of sustainable and eco-conscious style. Today, we are here with Prof. (Dr) Binaya Bhusan Jena, National Institute of Fashion Technology (Bhubaneswar), Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, to understand the concept and how the fashion industry can bring in a paradigm shift in domain of sustainability. Tell us about significance of Fashion industry and Sustainable Fashion, and how Farm to Fashion integrates well in it. Fashion industry has a symbiotic relationship with human society, culture, trade, economy and employment. Every year, we are adding more than 100 billion pieces of new garments to support the need of more than 8 billion people on this planet. The demand for fashion varies based on economy, climate, and culture with numerous strata, categories, styles, and quality. Today, many countries, particularly the developed countries are importing more than 90% of their clothing needs from the developing world, due to cost competitiveness and variety. The concepts of “season” and “collections” have changed the industry dramatically over the last couple of decades. The rise of “Fast Fashion” on the lines of fast food or use and throw culture, together with the production practices, material uses has put tremendous pressure on the environment. “Farm to fashion” is an inclusive and sustainable approach that focuses on bringing sustainability and equity in the entire fashion value chain. Farm to fashion bridges the gap between agriculture and style: showcasing sustainable & eco-friendly clothing created from locally sourced materials. It's a seamless blend of nature and design. It is a sustainable approach that not only supports local agriculture but also promotes environmentally responsible practices in the fashion industry and promotes a harmonious alliance between style and sustainability. How supportive the value chain is in the process? Value chain is the key to sustainability. If each stage of the value chain is disected and sustainability is ensured, then the final product can also be sustainable toa significant extent. It is not about the product itself, but how the product moved from sourcing raw material stage to the production, distribution of finished product and delivery to the customers, both forward and back integration of supply chain matters. A well-managed value chain ensures that products are created sustainably, efficiently, and with minimal waste, supporting the overall sustainability goals of farm-to-fashion initiatives. It helps connect farmers, textile producers, designers, and consumers, facilitating the flow of eco-friendly and locally sourced materials through each stage of the fashion production process, adding value to the scope of economy of the local entrepreneurs and businesses. Tell us about the interventions carried out in NIFT Bhubaneswar campus in this regards. National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Bhubaneswar has picked-up the sustainability theme keeping the handloom clusters of Odisha in mind. The entire handloom textiles historically used natural fibres only with low carbon footprint, similarly the weavers would use only natural dyes extracted from various plant and mineral sources before the advent of synthetic dyes in the 19th Century. Due to climate crisis, the demand for sustainable fashion is on rise. Additionally, it is our individual responsibility to make our stand firm that we are contributing towards a sustainable future. NIFT, Bhubaneswar chose the cause and did the plantation of natural dye-yielding plants and natural fibre-yielding plants. This created a ray of hope when we conducted a few training programmes for the artisans on how to use of different types of natural dyes on natural fibre/ yarns. The response was overwhelming, and many artisans have started making natural-dyed handloom products for domestic and international buyers in the name of sustainable and eco-friendly products. With this in place, we would like to underline that addressing aspects of climate justice is important as the front-liners get intensely affected due to climate crisis. Weaving sustainable practices with revenue generating models can exemplify the sustenance of sustainability. Image Courtesy: Pexels You have planted Mulberry, Arjun and other trees. How Farm to fashion is playing a pivotal role in generative sustainability? A very interesting question. We have a 10 plus acres’ campus surrounded by another private university campus. The campus was a mountainous terrain full of big rocks and uneven surface with only around 5 percent green coverage near the boundaries. In the beginning the campus authority was reluctant for plantation as the internal roads and other construction projects were planned to come at different locations in the campus. People suggested for beautification of the campus with seasonal flower plants, but we had something in the mind to gradually build the campus as an exmple of sustainable fashion centre. We decided to showcase our students and artisans the process of complete value chain of sustainable fashion from “farm” itself. Then rest just happened… We decided to show a path for non-violent silk extraction, hence did plantation of Arjun, Asan Mulberry, and Castor. These are the feeder plants for three different variety of silkworm like Tussar, Mulbery and Eri. Similarly, we identified native variety of fiber yielding plants like cotton, sisal, pineapple, coconut, palm, kenaf, kapok, okra, banana, lotus, jute, linen, and nettle. This is for the first-time students in any campus in the world could get an opportunity to see the source of different types of fibre at one place, that too in the campus of a fashion institution. Similarly, we also had plantation of 60 different varieties of natural dye yielding plants like annato seeds, indigo, pomegranate, turmeric, kaincha, palash, heena, mahula, kuilari, etc. Image Courtesy: Prof. (Dr.) Binaya Jena Tell us about Farm to Closet, and its significance in Odisha. Odisha has a great tradition of handloom and before the advent of modern machine and synthetic dyes, handloom used to be 100% sustainable from fibre to natural dyes. The deliberate plantation of fibre plants and dye-yielding plants made tremendous impact on the environmnet and ecosystem. They built a system of inclusive growth where the farmer would ensure sustainable fibre and dye production. The processors would transform those raw materials into the desired state for use by weavers and get their due share and similarly the weavers and their family members will make the excusite pieces of textiles for domestic and international market. We have a great maritime history of trading textiles and spices with many parts of the world, particularly in Asia. As Odisha does not have any industrial base for mechanised textiles and apparel, we saw this as an opportunity. In an era of climate change and when Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were introduced in 2015, we aggressively decided to go for localisation of SDGs as a model at NIFT Campus. We implemented the “Farm to Fashion” concept where students and academia collaborated and created an unique eco-system. (Image Courtesy: Pexels) When it comes to Odisha and its geography extending to biodiversity and other natural resources, how fashion industry is in the current scenario and how it can transform in near future? Explain us briefly. Odisha has rich natural, climatic, human, and indigenous resources. We have tremendous potential and opportunity to engage people in production of different types of natural fibres and natural dyes. Moost of these plants are climate-friednly and climate-resilient plants. While these can create income and employment opportunities in the rural areas, at the same time this can also protect the environment to a significant extent. By doing this, we can also arrest forced migration of people from rural and tribal areas in search of employment. If the Government comes forward with a sustainable textile policy in the state whereby farmers will be provided with a support of right variety of natural fibre yielding plants including linen, jute, banana etc., and natural dye-yielding plants, then Odisha can become a role model for the future of the fashion industry. The Government of Odisha has taken a few baby steps in this regard now. This year, they have done plantation of castor plants for [production of non-violent Eri silk. Similarly, last year the Govt made around 1300 kgs of Ahimsa Silk (non-violent silk) spinning in order to make silk-handloom clothing for Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra and Sudarshan. Tell us briefly about the handloom and handicraft sector of Odisha in relation to their relationship with nature. Handloom and handicrafts sector of Odisha comes with an extended lineage, with rich history and heritage. The production and consumption of handloom and handicrafts in Odisha has always remained integral to the nature, culture and environment. Cotton and other natural fibres like jute, linen and Kapok used to be the important fibre crops produced in this region seasonally in order to maintain soil fertility intact and ready for food grain crops. Crop rotation would maintain the natural fertility and health of the soil. The hand ginning, hand spinning, weaving used to be an in-house activity and being done by other value chain actors. The motifs like fish, kumbha (pot), temple, tree, etc., would always represent the cultural fabric of the time and culture of the place. The patterns and colour combination would always be aligned with the nature. How can handloom and handicraft boom keep its cultural and eco-friendly roots intact? Thinking about the prosperity of the handloom and handicrafts sector, I can say that the only way out is to set the narrative right as handloom means sustainable by bring back natural dyes and only natural fibre to produce handloom. It possesses an ever-growing market both domestic and international. The unique motifs, patterns, designs and weaving styles spread across the length and breadth of the handloom clusters of the country can be revived to flourish again only by creating right policies, schemes, exposure, and training of artisans in the cluster. What motivates you to bring in convergence between fashion industry and sustainability? Nothing more than the concern for environment and growing issues of climate change triggers the motivation in me. In Odisha, we are deeply rooted with our culture, traditions, picturesque and food. Think any element of these segments, everything relates to nature. Now overlooking at the fashion industry, it is considered as the second largest polluting industry based on different parameters including GHG emissions, water pollution, microplastic pollution, soil pollution etc. The consumer demand is rapidly increasing necessitating production of products that are fashionable and affordable. This leads to the emergence of fast fashion, whose scales of operation are the biggest culprit makes the fashion industry unsustainable. And the response from the industry is too little and too late, hence, they end up in rampant green washing. (Image Courtesy: Pexels) Throw some light on your personal experience that motivated you to focus on the eco-friendly aspect of fashion. While playing with different natural dyes prepared from locally available plant sources, I found the colours to be very exciting. As a professional in the fashion industry, I have deep inclination towards handlooms and handicrafts, and creative fashion and fusions. I found a natural dyed Kotpad handloom cloth that was at least 70 years old. On inquiring about it further I got to know that the product can be used for generations and at the end it is 100 percent biodegradable. This induced in me the interest to move ahead with the eco-friendly concern attached to our clothing and culture. I found a hope and reason to take this though-process forward as it can create gyres of revolution in the fashion industry. Farm-to-fashion fuses agriculture and style, highlighting sustainable, eco-friendly clothing made from locally sourced materials, creating a harmonious fusion of nature and design. About the Interviewee: Dr. Binaya Bhusan Jena, is an illustrious professor in the Department of Fashion Management Studies (FMS) at National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Bhubaneswar. He is also the former Director of NIFT, Bhubaneswar and the Chairman of Textile Association of India (TAI), Odisha Unit. Prof. Jena is widely popular as a sustainable fashion expert in the country, and globally known for his “Farm to Fashion” concept and model. The Indian Parliamentary Standing Committee on Labour & Textiles appreciated his concept of “Farm to Fashion” and recommended the model to be implement across all NIFT campuses. Prof. Jena has published and presented many research papers in numerous national and international conferences and seminars. His initiatives on sustainable fashion is well integrated with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and he has a deep understanding about the impact of fashion industry on climate. His model of “Farm to Fashion” focuses on sustainable fashion value chain from a climate change, climate adaptation and climate change mitigation perspective. The green campus of NIFT Bhubaneswar has been possible because of his personal involvement beyond his official commitment whereby he has done plantation of locally available natural dye garden and natural fibre garden for demonstration of his “Farm to Fashion” model.

Winners of Youth for Earth 2023 Junior Category 1st Position Project - Neeraja Project Neeraja from Tribal Residential School, Rohile, Trimbakeshwar, Nashik, Maharashtra. The groundbreaking initiative under Project Neeraja is dedicated to watershed development by constructing continuous contour trenches and loose boulder structures. They addressed the problem of severe soil erosion in Rohile village which is a heavy rainfall area. Their steadfast climate commitment is praiseworthy. We anticipate that with the active participation of students and the local community, they will devise more innovative ideas for a sustainable future. 2nd Position Project - BacWP Project BacWP from The Iconic School, Bhopal came with a big, bold idea of making biodegradable sanitary pads aiming to drive systemic change for menstrual hygiene & proper waste decomposition. They used readily available natural resources such as water hyacinth, bagasse and papaya fiber for making napkins. This project has the potential for combined benefits like safe disposal, decomposition & hygiene. Their climate co-benefits as the outcome of this project with bare minimum resources is commendable. Such inventive attitudes of youth are admirable & we expect they will scale up in future. 3rd Position Project - Passionately Natural Project Passionately Natural from TVS Academy Hosur advocated organic farming with the aim to create a kitchen garden, minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides towards a sustainable food system. They also ensured the farmers community participation by using ‘Panchagavya’ which boosts growth & immunity in the plant system and ‘Jeevamrutham’ that enhances soil fertility. Their effort is applaudable for spreading awareness about organic farming. We expect they will explore the future possibilities of climate smart agriculture with their ingenious approach. 4th Position Project - BeejGole Project Beejgole from the students of Adarsh Vidyamandir Satara, Maharashtra came with an idea of maximizing the seed germination rate & recommendation for an easy way of growing trees. They made the seed balls, where seeds were wrapped in a mixture of clay, cattle dung or compost to protect the seeds from predators. They selected 10 native species with the help of the village community & local Joint Forest Management Committee. It’s a laudable effort having great future potential to support climate informed conservation. 5th Position Project - Finobadi The Project Finobadi from Govt. Sarvodaya Bal Vidyalaya came with the productive idea of a circular economy. ‘Finobadi’ is the combination of finance, innovation and kabadiwalas to address the critical problem of inefficient waste management and its harmful impacts on the environment. They made an online platform to connect individuals and businesses with trusted kabadiwalas for waste collection and recycling. Such innovative ideas of waste to wealth creation is the need of the hour for achieving net zero target against the climate crisis. Senior Category 1st Position Project - Tamira SES Project Tamira from Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment advocated a big bold idea for river restoration & rejuvenation of Tamiraparani. They ensured community engagement with a hyper local approach. They explored the interplay between its hydrological, ecological and socio-cultural dimensions with an active participation of the fishing community. Such a responsible attitude of youth towards climate action is praiseworthy & we anticipate that they will devise more innovative green solutions for a sustainable future. 2nd Position Project - Nirmiti We all know that Nature Based Solutions (NBS) are often described as ‘no regret’ options, providing benefits to people in a range of scenarios. Project Nirmiti from St. Josephs’ University conceived an objective of ‘Bioenzyme cleaners’ to combat disposal issues of toxic household cleaning products into water bodies. Their future objective of developing a climate sustainable business model for ‘Bio-enzymes’ has an amazing capacity to rejuvenate contaminated water. Their efforts towards green growth are commendable. 3rd Position Project - Polyfueler Nowadays, waste plastic has become a global concern, leading to pollution and posing significant threats to human health and nature. The revolutionary idea of waste management by transforming diverse plastic waste into fuel can be a long-term solution for the environment and for society's energy needs. Their practice of transition towards cleaner & greener future, fostering sustainable practices and contributing to a circular economy is applaudable through the project Polyfueler from Sershah Engineering College, Sasaram. 4th Position Project - Beat Plastic Pollution Plastic pollution-free world is not a choice but a commitment to life & a commitment to the next generation. Team Beat Plastic Pollution from Earkai Paathukaappu Sangam (Nature Protection Society) conducted several awareness campaigns, plastic waste collection drives, waste processing or recycling units & restricted the plastics entering into the ponds and ocean. They were guided by local forest rangers & also ensured community participation. Such an action-based approach by the team is applaudable. They have also launched Project PAD ATMs in association with the Glad Bharath, in which they distributed biodegradable sanitary napkins. 5th Position Project - Our Common Future Project Common Future from Charusat University came up with an idea of strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity to climate related disasters, focussing on food security and impacts of climate change on it. They conducted several surveys, interviews with local communities, sharing ideas of climate-smart agriculture etc. We truly appreciate their efforts, though this project is in its nascent stage. We hope it will grow with time, strengthen their implementation and make remarkable changes. Go Back

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Press Gallery Media Contact Teaching Sustainability in Schools ​ June 2023 पर्यावरण संवर्धनाचे कार्यतत्पर नेतृत्व May 2023 Elsie Gabriel at L'Oréal Women Climate Championship April 2023 Work Green Conclave ​ February 2023 Nandini Deshmukh Recognized with Lifetime Achievement Award ​ June 2023 Green Businesses are Good Businesses Fastrack Magazine by Safexpress April 2023 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡 by 𝐃𝐫. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐲𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐊𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐞 April 2023 The Climate Project Foundation Signs MoU with EV Cell, Transport, GNCTD January 2023 El-Nino Impact: एल-निनो के दस्तक देने की आ रही है खबर, भारत के मानसून पर इसका क्या होगा असर, एक्सपर्ट कमेंट्स May 2023 International Youth Sustainability Festival 2023 April 2023 Col Shashikant Dalvi (Retd.) Receives Jal Prahari Award ​ March 2023 Investing in the planet means investing in the future ​ May 2023 Elsie Gabriel at C20 Summit ​ April 2023 Launch of Green Campus Program at Akal University, Punjab March 2023