There was a time when floods, heatwaves, droughts, and storms were spoken of as isolated emergencies - events that arrived, disrupted life, and passed. Today, that understanding is no longer enough. Across India, disasters are becoming more frequent, more intense, and far less predictable. What we are witnessing on the ground is not merely a disaster management challenge; it is the unmistakable face of climate change unfolding in communities every single day. As someone working closely with schools, local governments, volunteers, women’s groups, and frontline responders in the field of disaster preparedness, I have seen how climate change is no longer discussed as an environmental issue alone. It is now a livelihood issue, a health issue, a safety issue, and increasingly, a question of social equity. In village interactions, women speak of summers that have become unbearable, forcing changes in daily routines, water use, and household labor. Farmers discuss rainfall that no longer follows familiar patterns. Urban communities narrate how a few hours of intense rain can now bring entire neighbourhoods to a standstill. Frontline responders share that emergencies are no longer seasonal - they are layered, recurring, and often simultaneous. This shift is deeply significant. For decades, disaster response systems in India were largely designed around the assumption that hazards were occasional. But climate change has altered the rhythm of risk itself. Heatwaves are arriving earlier and staying longer. Flash floods are appearing in areas with weak drainage and dense construction. Water scarcity is intensifying even in regions that once considered themselves secure. Air quality deterioration, vector-borne diseases, and urban heat stress are compounding vulnerabilities, especially for children, the elderly, and low-income populations. Communities are not facing one disaster at a time anymore. They are facing interconnected stresses. And yet, one of the strongest lessons from the ground is this: resilience cannot be built only through post-disaster relief. It has to be built before the sirens. This is where climate adaptation and disaster preparedness must stop functioning in silos. When a school conducts an evacuation drill, it is not merely preparing for an earthquake or fire - it is cultivating a generation that understands risk, response, and collective action. When community volunteers are trained in early warning dissemination, first aid, and local resource mapping, they become the first climate responders long before institutional support reaches. When women’s self-help groups discuss water conservation, waste management, or household preparedness, they are contributing directly to local climate adaptation. These may appear like small interventions, but on the ground, they become the architecture of survival. In many of our workshops, one recurring realization emerges from participants: climate change feels overwhelming when discussed globally, but becomes actionable when understood locally. People may not connect immediately with terms like “mitigation pathways” or “adaptation finance,” but they instantly connect when asked: Why is summer harsher than before? Why are drains overflowing after one spell of rain? Why is clean water becoming harder to secure? Why are diseases changing with weather patterns? This is where climate communication must change. We do not need climate conversations only in conference halls. We need them in classrooms, panchayat meetings, mohalla committees, self-help groups, youth clubs, and training grounds for first responders. Climate literacy must move from abstract science to practical citizenship. Another important truth from the field is that vulnerable communities are not merely victims of climate change; they are repositories of adaptation wisdom. Local coping mechanisms, community solidarity, indigenous water practices, decentralized warning systems, and volunteer-based support structures often provide the first line of resilience. The challenge is not that communities lack solutions - the challenge is that these solutions are rarely scaled, supported, or institutionally integrated. If India is to build genuine climate resilience, we must stop seeing disaster management as a response department and begin seeing it as a climate governance imperative. Preparedness training, resilient infrastructure, school safety, water conservation, local volunteer systems, risk-informed planning, and citizen awareness are no longer optional development extras. They are climate necessities. The climate crisis is not waiting for policy language to catch up. It is already visible in the exhausted faces during heatwaves, in flooded streets after short cloudbursts, in crop anxieties, in water queues, and in the growing uncertainty communities carry into every season. The frontline reality is clear: disasters are no longer natural interruptions to normal life. They are becoming the new indicators of a changing climate. And if resilience is to be real, it must begin where the impacts are felt first - within communities.

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.

Newsletter (April-June 2026) 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 Global Week of Action 2026 From 1-7 June 2026, The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia joined Climate Reality's Global Week of Action, marking 20 years of climate leadership across its global network. Bringing together Climate Reality Leaders, Green Campus Programme schools, higher education institutions, educators, students, and community members, the initiative focused on strengthening support for clean energy solutions and encouraging actions that contribute to healthier, more resilient communities. United by the theme "Clean Energy, Clean Communities, Cooler Planet," participants transformed climate awareness into meaningful action across campuses and communities. Across 30 cities and districts in 11 states, students and educators organized 160+ activities at 60 venues, reaching more than 4,500 community members. The week featured clean energy campaigns, community outreach, waste management initiatives, and biodiversity activities, alongside the submission of 37 clean energy representation letters to elected representatives, government officials, and community leaders, encouraging greater support for renewable energy solutions. Together, these efforts demonstrated how local action can strengthen community participation and inspire practical climate solutions. The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia will continue engaging with participating campuses and Climate Reality Leaders, with Climate Action Days planned for September and October to review progress, recognise achievements, and follow the commitments made during the week. IMPACT OF THE EVENT 30 Cities & Districts Across 11 States 160+ Activities Organized Across schools, communities & institutions 4,500+ Community Members Students, educators & community members participated 60 Venues Schools, campuses & community spaces 37 Clean Energy Representation Letters Submitted to elected representatives & government leaders 20 Years of Climate Leadership Celebrating 20 years of climate action across our global network EXPLORE STORIES Discover how Schools, Communities, and Institutions came together for climate action GCP Schools GCP Maharashtra GCP-HEIs GCP Schools Twenty-five Green Campus Programme schools engaged over 1,150 students during the Global Week of Action, championing the theme "Clean Energy, Clean Communities, Cooler Planet." Across campuses, students led awareness campaigns, plantation drives, e-waste collection, waste upcycling, clean-up activities, and renewable energy outreach. A standout effort came from Jammu & Kashmir, where 11 schools combined classroom learning with community action through solar awareness campaigns, public rallies, and door-to-door engagement. At N.M. Boys Higher Secondary School, Bandipora, students showcased working solar models and submitted a clean energy petition advocating renewable energy in schools, inspiring district-level support for promoting solar adoption across educational institutions. GCP Schools Eighteen Green Campus Programme campuses across six districts of Maharashtra transformed the Global Week of Action into a community-driven movement for clean energy. Students, teachers, and local communities promoted renewable energy through awareness rallies, solar demonstrations, plantation drives, and outreach on the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, engaging over 320 community members. By collaborating with Gram Panchayats and municipal bodies, students went beyond classroom learning to advocate for rooftop solar adoption, demonstrating the power of youth-led climate action in driving sustainable change at the grassroots. GCP-Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) Fourteen Green Campus Programme–Higher Education Institutions (GCP-HEIs) across six states joined the Global Week of Action under the theme "Clean Energy, Cooler Planet." Despite examinations and summer vacations, more than 700 students, faculty members, and community participants organized poster competitions, awareness sessions, plantation drives, pledge campaigns, campus walks, and community outreach activities. By promoting clean energy, sustainable lifestyles, and environmental stewardship, these institutions demonstrated how higher education can inspire meaningful climate action beyond the classroom. GREEN CAMPUS PROGRAMME IN SCHOOLS Earth Day 2026: Celebrating 20 Years of Climate Action Schools across Uttarakhand marked Earth Day 2026 by joining The Climate Reality Project's Green Campus Program to celebrate 20 years of action. Students and educators from Saigrace Academy International (Nathuwala and Raipur branches), KIIT World School, Little Flowers School, AVN School, Haldukhata, and Ryan International School came together to promote environmental awareness and sustainable living. The celebrations featured tree plantation drives, eco-club activities, awareness sessions, student presentations, and sustainability pledges, encouraging young learners to take meaningful climate action. The initiative reinforced the Green Campus Program's vision of nurturing environmentally responsible campuses and empowering students to become champions for a greener future. Building Young Climate Champions in Bangladesh The Green Campus Program Bangladesh is nurturing a new generation of climate champions through hands-on, action-based learning in seven primary schools. Spearheaded by Climate Reality Leaders Md. Shakhawat Chowdhury, Md. Hafijul Islam, and Ms. Ananya Anower, with teachers training led by Ms. Shamali Roy, the initiative is equipping educators and students with practical skills in waste management, water conservation, biodiversity, energy, and sustainable living. From composting and recycling competitions to biodiversity walks, water conservation activities, and a large-scale World Ocean Day Beach Cleanup in Cox's Bazar led by Climate Reality Leaders Md. Shakhawat Chowdhury, Muntasir Mamun, and Habiba Islam Shifat, the program is turning classrooms into hubs of climate action. By empowering students to learn through doing, the Green Campus Program is inspiring lasting environmental stewardship across Bangladesh. Green Campus Programme Strengthens Climate Education in Kashmir The Green Campus Programme expanded its outreach in Kashmir through a series of orientation sessions and teachers' training workshops at Government Degree College, Tangmarg, Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Pulwama, and GHSS Ratnipora. The sessions introduced educators and students to sustainable campus practices, covering key themes such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, waste management, water conservation, and energy efficiency. Over 30 teachers and 50 students participated in interactive learning sessions that equipped them with practical tools to integrate environmental education into school activities and lead green initiatives on their campuses. The workshops reaffirmed the commitment of participating institutions to fostering environmentally responsible school communities and advancing climate action through education. GREEN CAMPUS PROGRAMME MAHARASHTRA Celebrating Sustainability, the Way It Should Be At New English School, Kusumbi in Maharashtra's Sahyadri hills, sustainability was celebrated not through grand events but through meaningful action. After earning the prestigious Gold Green Campus Certification under The Climate Project Foundation's Green Campus Programme, the school chose to hold its celebration in the village's Kalubai temple, bringing together students, teachers, parents, the Panchayat, and the local community. The event reflected the very values the programme promotes, students welcomed guests with handmade bouquets, served homemade refreshments on paper plates, and managed the entire ceremony themselves under the guidance of their teachers. With no plastic, no extravagance, and every decision rooted in sustainability, the celebration became a powerful reminder that the true spirit of climate action lies in living our values, not just talking about them. GREEN CAMPUS PROGRAMME IN HEIs Higher Education Institutions Celebrate Earth Day Through Action To celebrate World Earth Day 2026, 19 Green Campus Programme–Higher Education Institutions (GCP-HEIs) across eight states organized more than 40 sustainability activities, engaging over 2,200 students and faculty members. From plantation drives and clean-up campaigns to biodiversity initiatives, community outreach, and zero-plastic pledges, campuses demonstrated their commitment to creating greener and more sustainable learning environments. The celebrations showcased the growing leadership of higher education institutions in advancing climate action. By combining awareness with hands-on activities, students and educators transformed Earth Day into a meaningful movement, inspiring sustainable practices both on campus and in their surrounding communities. Celebrating World Environment Day 2026 with Youth for Earth To mark World Environment Day 2026, The Climate Project Foundation, in collaboration with the Mobius Foundation, hosted a special Youth for Earth session that brought together 361 young participants to celebrate youth-led climate action and innovation. Past award winners shared inspiring stories of how their sustainability projects evolved into impactful ventures, encouraging participants to transform their own ideas into meaningful action. The session featured practical insights on green entrepreneurship, guidance on developing sustainability projects, and a walkthrough of the Youth for Earth evaluation criteria. By connecting aspiring changemakers with successful young innovators, the event reinforced the power of youth leadership in building a more sustainable future. CLIMATE REALITY LEADERS- IN ACTION World Environment Day Panel Discussion in Chandigarh To mark World Environment Day 2026, Climate Reality Leaders from Chandigarh, led by Dr. Vivek Trivedi, organized a panel discussion titled "Blueprint for Tomorrow: From Personal Lifestyle Changes to Sustainable Communities" in collaboration with the Association of Professional Social Workers and Development Practitioners (APSWDP) and Alliance Française de Chandigarh. The discussion brought together environmental experts, policymakers, academicians, youth leaders, and civil society representatives to explore practical solutions for climate resilience and sustainable living, inspiring participants to turn individual actions into collective environmental impact. Climate Dialogue with Assam MLAs Climate Reality Leader Rituraj Phukan addressed newly elected Members of the Assam Legislative Assembly during an Orientation and Capacity Building Programme organized by the Assembly Secretariat. Speaking on the theme "Environment & Natural Hazards – Floods, Climate Change, and Regeneration of Forests," he highlighted the growing environmental challenges facing Assam and the critical role of informed policymaking in building climate resilience. The session equipped legislators with insights into climate change, disaster preparedness, and forest regeneration, reinforcing the importance of integrating sustainability into governance and public policy for a more resilient future. Building Community Disaster Resilience Climate Reality Leader Nitika Singla contributed to a large-scale disaster preparedness initiative in Chandigarh that trained 309 community volunteers as Aapda Mitras. Through intensive classroom sessions, mock drills, search and rescue exercises, and community engagement activities, volunteers were equipped with the skills needed to respond effectively during emergencies. The program's impact was soon evident as several newly trained Aapda Mitras played an active role in recent flood response and evacuation efforts across Chandigarh and the Tricity region, highlighting the importance of community-led disaster preparedness and resilience. 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Newsletter (September-October 2024) 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 Teachers’ Training Program, Tamil Nadu The Teachers’ Training Program, held on September 9-10, 2024, at Maharishi International School in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, aimed to equip 125 teachers with the tools and knowledge to teach environmental sustainability. Organized by The Climate Project Foundation with support of the GCP consultant Neeru Bhushan, the workshop focused on three key areas: waste management, air quality, and energy conservation. The primary objective was to make the teachers understand the climate change urgency and the solutions at hand and also to enable them to integrate sustainability topics into their curriculum, empowering them to raise environmental awareness and promote eco-friendly behaviors within their schools and the broader community. This training aligns with long-term goals of reducing environmental impact and encouraging young learners to adopt eco-conscious behaviors, contributing to a greener, more sustainable future. International Conference for Sustainability Education 2024 The International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE) 2024, held on September 19-20 at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, centered on the theme "Greening Education for a Sustainable Future." The event gathered educators, environmentalists, and youth leaders to promote sustainability education. It also featured participation from key speakers including our Climate Reality Leaders- Dr. Erach Bharucha, Mr. Rituraj Phukan, Dr. Vidhi Vohra, Mr. Nikhil Kamath, and Dr. Pooja Chopra to name a few. As a partner, Climate Reality Project India & South Asia set up a "Climate Action Pledge Selfie" booth, engaging 230 participants who pledged climate actions and received commitment badges. On Day 2, the Youth for Environment (Y4E) Awards celebrated young changemakers’ projects addressing environmental challenges, with Director Aditya Pundir emphasizing youth’s role in sustainability. ICSE 2024 showcased education’s power and youth leadership in advancing a sustainable future. Youth for Earth Awards 2024 The Youth for Earth (Y4E) campaign offers a platform for young leaders to showcase projects contributing to a sustainable and resilient future. In its 5th year, Y4E 2024 focused on "Greening Education for a Sustainable Future," inspiring youth to address environmental challenges. The Award Ceremony, held at the 6th International Conference for Sustainability Education by the Climate Project Foundation, honored the achievements of young environmentalists. Director, TCPF Mr. Aditya Pundir and CEO, Mobius Foundation Dr. Ram Boojh presented awards to five Junior and four Senior winning teams, each receiving cash prizes and certificates, with one team earning a special recognition award. The event celebrated youth innovation and inspired ongoing efforts in environmental conservation and resilience. Green Campus Awards In October, Green Campus Programme Awards (second edition) were announced, celebrating 30 institutions that have shown outstanding dedication to sustainability and move towards net zero. These awards highlight campuses that implemented innovative green practices, from renewable energy initiatives to waste reduction efforts for a more sustainable future. The 2024 honorees have led transformative projects that significantly reduce their campuses' carbon footprints while bringing about behavioral changes leading to environmental responsibility. Their dedication to sustainability reflects the growing importance of green practices in education, shaping the next generation of leaders. We congratulate these institutions for their efforts and commitment to making a transformative move towards achieving net zero. GCP Winners 2024 (2nd Edition) Visit to Sahyadri Shikshan Sanstha, Sawarde, Ratnagiri In September 2024, Mr. Aditya Pundir, Director of The Climate Project Foundation, and Mr. Ganesh Satav, Senior Education Officer, visited Sahyadri Shikshan Sanstha in Sawarde, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. The visit aimed to explore collaboration opportunities with this prominent educational institute and to introduce the Green Campus Programme (GCP). The team met with Mr. Shekhar Nikam, Chairman of Sahyadri Shikshan Sanstha and MLA of Chiplun, to discuss the institute’s background, achievements, and how GCP could contribute to sustainable campus development. Mr. Nikam raised questions regarding the GCP, which were addressed during the meeting. The Climate Project Foundation team proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize the partnership, and Mr. Nikam provided preliminary approval to move forward. This visit lays the groundwork for a collaborative effort in promoting environmental education in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Visit to Naoroji Godrej Centre for Plant Research (NGCPR) On September 26, 2024, representatives from The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF), including Director Aditya Pundir and Senior Education Officer for GCP, Ganesh Satav, visited the Naoroji Godrej Centre for Plant Research (NGCPR) in Shirwal, Maharashtra. Guided by Dr. Kranti Yardi, the team explored NGCPR's resources and facilities to assess potential collaborations, especially in support of the Green Campus Program (GCP) biodiversity theme. During the visit, they observed key NGCPR facilities, such as a seed bank, a rare plant nursery, an orchid garden, and a butterfly garden, alongside a fully equipped training center and open field areas for biodiversity research. A productive meeting followed with Dr. Erach Bharucha and Dr. Yardi, where they discussed opportunities for utilizing NGCPR's resources to enhance GCP's biodiversity efforts across campuses. 03 Schools in Maharashtra GO SOLAR! Solar panels were installed in the three school campuses of Rayat Shikshan Sanstha in Maharashtra under the Green Campus Programme (GCP) in September 2024. The installations, supported by the Maharashtra Foundation, aim to promote clean energy, reduce carbon footprints, provide reliable electricity, and serve as educational tools. Solar panels were installed at Shree Dhundibaba Vidyalaya Vidyanagar, Jaoli, Satara (3 kW), Yashwant Vidyalaya Kashil, Satara (3 kW), and New English School Gadegaon, Pandharpur, Solapur (5 kW). These initiatives are expected to lower electricity costs, support net-zero emissions targets, and offer hands-on learning experiences about renewable energy. CLIMATE CHANGE ENGAGEMENTS & ADVOCACY SEEM Energy Awards 2024 The SEEM Energy Awards 2023 took place on September 26-27 in New Delhi, recognizing industry leaders in energy efficiency and innovation. Organized in partnership with The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) and the Society of Energy Engineers and Managers (SEEM), the event attracted 200 delegates. Under a recently signed MoU, both organizations aimed to advance energy efficiency and carbon responsibility in India. The ceremony presented 100 awards across various categories, featuring expert sessions on emerging trends in low-carbon practices. The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia played a crucial role to discuss the future of the Decarbonisation India Alliance, as part of the bigger net-zero goals set forth by the Govt. of India. Inaugural Ceremony of US Consulate Tech Camp on Waste Management The US Consulate Tech Camp on Waste Management, held from September 24-27, 2024, at Pune in collaboration with The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia, Symbiosis International University and Explorit. The event saw participation of the experts and stakeholders to explore sustainable waste management solutions. The inaugural session had key speakers including Robert Anderson from the US Consulate, who stressed the importance of US-India collaboration, and Dr. Erach Bharucha highlighted the need for environmental education and youth engagement. Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar emphasized academia's role in sustainability, while Aditya Pundir, Director, TCPF, emphasized on the connection between climate action and waste management. The session was moderated by Shivam Singh, our Climate Reality Leader and founder, ExploreiT. The event facilitated interaction among policymakers, industry experts, and students, encouraging innovative and actionable approaches. Dr. Manikprabhu Dhanodkar closed the ceremony with a vote of thanks, underscoring a shared commitment to environmental progress. Shape South-Asia 2024 The SHAPE South Asia 2024 event, held in Jaipur, was a flagship event by Global Shapers, Jaipur team spearheaded by our Climate Reality Leaders namely Mr. Gaurav Sharma and Mr. Avi Aggarwal.The event focused on "The Global Rise of South Asia: Shaping the Decade Ahead”, highlighted South Asia’s growing global influence in economics, technology, and geopolitics, with a strong emphasis on climate action. TCPF played a key role in facilitating a special session on ‘Climate Change solutions’ with active contribution from Mr. Bhavesh Swami and Climate Reality HQ team members Ms. Jennifer Fei and Ms. Jill Leaness. International Eco-Visionary Dialogue on Advancing Sustainable Urban Future (IEDASUF): Roadmap to COP29 The IEDASUF event, held on October 9, 2024, to commemorate World Habitat Day, brought together over 1,400 global participants, including representatives from 35 countries and 30+ Indian states. The hybrid dialogue explored strategies for sustainable urban development in preparation for COP29, with a special focus on youth-led urban transformation. Mr. Bhavesh Swami and Dr. Sakshi Grover from TCPF participated in a youth-led roundtable on community-driven urban development, highlighting local solutions and the vital role of young leaders in shaping resilient cities. The event emphasized the need for cross-sector collaborations and youth involvement in global urban policy discussions at COP29. HIGHLIGHTS Highlight: Climate Reality Leader in action On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, Climate Reality Leader, Debbrata Rajkumar was felicitated by the President of India at Rashtrapati Nilayam, Secunderabad, for his contribution to an awareness session on Swachhata (Cleanliness). The session, aligned with the Swachh Bharat Mission, aimed to emphasize the importance of cleanliness in daily life. Debbrata proudly represented the traditions and culture of Northeast India, showcasing the region's sustainable practices and commitment to environmental preservation. This recognition not only highlighted his dedication to cleanliness but also celebrated the rich cultural diversity and unity of India in protecting the environment. Highlight: GCP School Students in action A community Awareness Program on Water Conservation was organized by Students of St. Teresa's Girls H.S School, Darjeeling, West Bengal to raise awareness about water scarcity and the declining local watersheds. The event, titled "Save Water, Save Life," aimed to educate residents on sustainable water practices. Key highlights included engaging presentations on water’s importance, discussions on the depletion of local resources, and demonstrations on rainwater harvesting. Students also led a field visit to nearby watersheds to assess their condition. This successful initiative emphasized community involvement and will be continued annually, fostering lasting water conservation efforts in Darjeeling. 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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