Back Prafulla Kumar Dhal National Coordinator Climate Disaster and Livelihood Mr. Prafulla Kumar Dhal is a well-known strategist and specialist on pubic polices in India spanning over 25 years. He is the General Manager & State Head, CSR of JK Group of companies in Odisha. He served as Sr. Consultant with E&Y for government advisory section. He led World Bank mission in Andhra Pradesh & Telangana for AP Municipal Development Project (APDMP) to suggest reforms in municipal governance. He authored a number of research documents for agencies like UNDP, USAID (FIRE (D), UNFPA, Development Alternatives, IUCN, VV NLI, NIEPUA, ICCW and others. Mr Dhal is especially keen in developing strategies for youth employments in non-conventional areas. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Skill Share Teachers Exchange Program The Climate Project Foundation has launched an innovative program under its Green Campus Program called, Skill Share Teachers Exchange Program. It provides the teachers an opportunity to broaden their horizons by exploring and collaborating with schools from different parts of the country. It is an interstate exchange program for the teachers to immerse themselves in diverse educational environments, culture while learning about innovative green practices and hands-sustainable solutions. It allows Teachers from one educational institution to learn from another institution about their best practices in the domain of Climate Change, developing a green campus and inculcating sustainable behavior in students. Download the Brochure How do I sign up for the SkillShare Program? STEP 05 Reflection and Evaluation After the exchange, participants reflect on their experiences, assessing the program’s impact on teaching, student engagement, and environmental awareness over a period of one year. STEP 04 Collaboration The host school will offer the visiting faculty a final itinerary. During their visit, they’ll observe teaching methods, exchange sustainable solutions, and share best practices for integrating environmental education into the curriculum to promote sustainable behaviour among students. STEP 03 Matching and Orientation Applicant school will be informed about the host school from the state chosen by the applicant. STEP 02 Selection Application will be reviewed by our team from The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia. You will be intimated over call/email to understand your needs better. STEP 01 Application Register your school under the Green Campus Programme if not done already. Then you can fill out the interest form for Skillshare program. Benefits of the Program Earn a Platinum Rating for your school, promoting sustainability, behavioral change, and cost savings through resource conservation. Green Campus Certification Teachers gain practical experience, explore creative green practices, and apply tailored solutions through diverse teaching techniques. New Learnings from Different Schools The teachers from different schools get to exchange ideas and learn new approaches to sustainability education. Cross Cultural Collaboration Teachers can adopt new methods to help students better grasp classroom subjects. Enhanced Classroom Learning States where you can apply for Skillshare Jammu & Kashmir 89 GCP Campuses Punjab Punjab 22 GCP Campuses Uttarakhand 09 GCP Campuses Uttar Pradesh 18 GCP Campuses Haryana 24 GCP Campuses Delhi 50 GCP Campuses Rajasthan 03 GCP Campuses Gujarat 05 GCP Campuses Maharashtra 37 GCP Campuses Madhya Pradesh 03 GCP Campuses Karnataka 15 GCP Campuses Kerala 05 GCP Campuses Tamil Nadu 41 GCP Campuses Telangana 03 GCP Campuses Odisha 04 GCP Campuses West Bengal 25 GCP Campuses Tripura 01 GCP Campuses Meghalaya 01 GCP Campuses Assam 02 GCP Campuses Sikkim 02 GCP Campuses Bihar 01 GCP Campuses Glimpses at a few Skill Share sessions Visit of Gyan Anant Vidyalaya, Uttar Pradesh to St. Mary’s School, New Delhi The first GCP Skill Share Teachers Exchange took place between Gyan Anant Vidyalaya and St. Mary’s School, Dwarka, New Delhi, on 6th April. Four teachers from Gyan Anant Vidyalaya visited St. Mary’s School to learn about their sustainable and innovative green practices. They were particularly impressed by a mini forest on the campus consisting of 1600 native plants, which is maintained by the students. Additionally, they learned about the school's use of tetra packs in constructing a soundproof music room, the implementation of water meters for water conservation, and the buddy plant system aimed at fostering a connection between students and nature while instilling a sense of responsibility towards it. These practices showcased a holistic approach towards environmental education and sustainability. Overall, the experience proved to be incredibly enriching for the visiting teachers. Visit of Mother’s Public School, Odisha to Tagore International School, New Delhi On 15th April, 02 teachers from Mother's Public School, Bhubaneswar, Odisha visited Tagore International School, East of Kailash, New Delhi. They were provided with an overview of the sustainable practices and green school initiatives, showcasing the commitment to environmental stewardship. A comprehensive tour of the school’s eco-friendly infrastructure highlighted the dedication to sustainability in various aspects of school life. Additionally, the Vice Principals had the opportunity to observe the inclusive academic practices, which prioritize student-centered learning. This exchange of ideas and practices served to strengthen collaboration between educational institutions from Odisha and Delhi, fostering a spirit of mutual learning and growth. The second day of the exchange program delved deeper into the school’s culture and ethos. Throughout the day, they experienced the dynamic energy of the school community and gained insights into the rich cultural heritage. The visit of the teachers from Mother's Public School, Bhubaneswar, proved to be enriching and fruitful. It strengthened ties between the institutions and facilitated the exchange of valuable knowledge and experiences with opportunities for mutual growth. Register Today

Newsletter (March-April) 2023 Our newsletter will provide updates from our programs, our fellow Climate Reality Leaders who are making difference and how each one of us can act to solve the crisis. And, we would love to know your story and act of leadership, because every action does matter. Launch of Green Campus Program at Akal University, Punjab The Climate Project Foundation’s (TCPF) first online introduction meeting with Akal University took place in March 2023, which is a major step towards building a green and sustainable world by initiating the Green Campus Program (GCP) in Bathinda Punjab. The program was officially launched for the University with a presentation by Aditya Pundir, Director - The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia branch, who underlined the urgency of addressing climate change and the role that universities can play in promoting sustainability. The project aims to create awareness about climate change and encourage the adoption of sustainable practices at its campus in Sabo ki Talwandi Bhatinda. The launch was followed by a visit in the first week of April 2023. Mr. Pundir visited Akal University, Talwandi Sabo, as a part of the GCP implementation along with Rekha Lalla, GCP Manager, TCPF. The university is dedicated to creating a sustainable future, and a committee has been formed for the same. The visit was a significant step towards that goal. 2-Day Capacity Building and Training Workshop A two-day capacity building and training workshop for Eco Club members of Chandigarh on climate change, waste, and water, was conducted by By Rekha Lalla, Manager – Green Campus Program, The Climate Project Foundation. The training workshop was organized by the Department of Environment, Chandigarh in association with The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) on 18th March 2023. The objective of this program was to support capacity-building activities and to impart skills to students (schools and colleges) and teachers of Eco-club on various thematic areas like Bio-diversity conservation, Waste Management, and the concept of 4Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle & Recover, 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and climate change-related issues with a focus on Adaptation and Mitigation, and pollution control. 250 teachers from Eco Clubs of Chandigarh participated on the theme Zero Waste City. Students from the Government and Private Schools and Eco Club Heads participated in this workshop followed by group discussions and visited Horticulture Waste Processing Plant, and Construction and Development Plant, Chandigarh. Implementation of Green Campus Program in Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil Vidyalaya Aitawade, Sangli The Climate Project Foundation, in collaboration with Rayat Shikshan Sanstha, Satara, has implemented the Green Campus Program (GCP) at Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil Vidyalaya Aitawade (Bk), Taluka – Walwa, District Sangli. The campus has installed 5 kW solar panels, resulting in an annual savings of approximately Rs 60,000. A rooftop rainwater harvesting (RWH) system has been set up, collecting 1,13,700 litres of water from a 2000 sq. ft rooftop, which is used to recharge the borewell and well. Energy-efficient measures include the installation of 43 LED bulbs and tubes. The campus manages wet waste through a 432 cubic feet compost pit, generating around 2 tons of organic fertilizer annually. Color-coded bins facilitate waste segregation, and a 5684 sq. ft herbal garden with 20 plant species has been developed. The implementation of GCP has transformed the campus into an eco-friendly environment, fostering behavioral and attitudinal changes among teachers, students, and the community. Click here to have a glimpse of the campus transformation. Principals’ Conclave at S.D Vidya School, Noida On 27th March 2023, The S D Vidya School in Noida hosted The Principal's Green Conclave for Climate Crisis and Sustainability Education for a Safer Planet. The event featured esteemed guests Aditya Pundir, Director of the India & South Asia branch, and Ms. Rekha Lalla, Program Manager of Green Campus at The Climate Project Foundation. Mr. Pundir provided an overview session on climate change, discussing its causes, impacts, and solutions. The choir performed a song celebrating Earth, while Ms. Rekha Lalla delivered a presentation on creating and practicing sustainable environments in educational institutions. Additionally, students from SD Vidya conducted cultural program, including dance performance showcasing the five elements of nature: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space, under the theme Panchbhutas. Click here to have a glimpse of the conclave Work Green Conclave in Bengaluru The Work Green Conclave was organized in Bengaluru by Green Footprint Trust and Advanced Workplace Associates (AWA) on February 24. It aimed to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change on hybrid workplaces and daily life, particularly due to vehicle emissions and infrastructure projects. Rekha Lalla, Program Manager of Green Campus at The Climate Project Foundation, highlighted the transformation of workplaces. She emphasized the importance of environmental sustainability globally, urging companies to switch to 100% renewable energy, encourage employees to use public transportation, and responsibly conserve energy, water, and resources. Creating a healthy environment would reduce companies' ecological footprint and safeguard valuable resources. Production of Bio-fertilizer – ‘Azolla’ The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) partnered with Rayat Shikshan Sanstha, Satara, to organize a session introducing students to Azolla, its benefits, and cultivating techniques. Students and teachers collaborated to create a structure for growing Azolla, consisting of a pit (1.5m long, 1.5m wide, and 20cm deep) covered with a plastic sheet and earthen roofing tiles. They prepared a mixture of cow dung, soil, and water, added 50gm of single super phosphate, and planted Azolla seeds in the mixture. Azolla offers multiple advantages, including carbon sequestration, sustainable livestock feed, nitrogen fixation, and increased yields for paddy and other crops. World Water Day 2023 The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) collaborated with Wednesdays for Water to raise awareness about water conservation on the eve of World Water Day. The theme focused on addressing the global water crisis and accelerating change. Col. Shashikant Dalvi (Retd.), National Coordinator - Water, TCPF, shared his project of making 100 villages in Maharashtra water self-sufficient. He shared how the journey started with TCPF coming on board to support the first experiment at Kamkheda in Beed Maharashtra and later at 4 villages of Ambegaon taluka in Pune. Ms. Shubhi Kesarwani, Co-Founder and CEO of Gurujal Society discussed their efforts to bring water positivity to water-starved regions through a unique public-private partnership model. Ms. Fawzia Tarannum, National Coordinator - Water, TCPF, highlighted how different stakeholders are coming forward to bridge the industry–academia gap, thus creating a pool of water professionals that can take up the challenges faced by the industry. International Youth Sustainability Festival 2023 The Climate Project Foundation partnered with ExploreiT to organize the International Youth Sustainability Festival 2023, with the following objectives: To expose students to current development in various fields of sustainability and provide them with an opportunity to present their innovative ideas in the form of posters and models. To create an event with a low carbon footprint, which is a mix of academic and youth-oriented segments. To foster youth partnerships toward the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals The festival was inaugurated by the "Water Man of India" Dr. Rajendra Singh and Dr. Ujjwal Chauhan, Additional Commissioner, Income Tax, Mumbai. Aditya Pundir, Director - The Climate Reality Project - India and South Asia branch, graced the inaugural function along with Dr. M.S. Shejul, Registrar of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), who delivered the welcome address and felicitated the guests. Young People’s Climate Conference 2023 The two-day Young People's Climate Conference 2023 took place in April 2023, aiming to promote sustainability education to the mainstream and encourage students to incorporate sustainable practices in their daily lives and work on ‘Do It Yourself’ (DIY) projects. Sectoral experts highlighted the importance of breaking down climate change into smaller segments for effective action. The conference was inaugurated by Sh. Sheelam Seth, CEO of Shri Educare, and Mr. Aditya Pundir, The Climate Reality Project - India and South Asia and both emphasized the preservation of the environment through traditional and technological methods. Bhavesh Swami, Lead - Engagements and Clean Energy, The Climate Project Foundation, presented the first session titled ‘Clean Energy projects for Students,’ where he shared about how newer forms of energy are competing with traditional power generation and ‘grid parity’ has been achieved in the case of solar energy with an added advantage of almost negligible emissions. Nadeem Qadri, who has set up a Nature University in Pampore, shared how students differentiate between activism and advocacy. Over 400 students participated in the conference. Earth Day Celebrations At Rotary Club Gurgaon Rotary Club of Gurgaon Greens, a new club formed under the aegis Rotary International invited The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) to commemorate Earth Day 2023 and brainstorm areas of collaboration. Bhavesh Swami – Lead, Clean Energy and Engagements, TCPF addressed the forum and shared the wider perspective of climate change and its day-to-day impacts leading to solutions that TCPF is working on, ranging from tree plantation to rainwater harvesting to Green Campuses. Members showed a great interest in all the mentioned areas and wanted to visit the locations where these projects have been implemented and foresee the possible collaboration roadmap. A Webinar for the Students at Chitkara University A webinar was held at Chitkara University in partnership with Earth Day Network, Association of Professional Social Workers & Development Practitioners (APSWDP), and Chitkara University to commemorate Earth Day 2023 with the theme “Invest in Our Planet”. Ms. Neelam Majumdar, Director of Education & Outreach, Earth Day Network, discussed the evolution of Earth Day as a movement of collective change. Bhavesh Swami, Lead of Engagements and Clean Energy at The Climate Project Foundation, shared the importance of investing in the environment for the future, while Dr. Charu Khosla, Assistant Dean of International Affairs, Chitkara University, and Mr. Hitesh Kumar Gulati, Director General, APSWDP, discussed the Green Campus Program and its benefits. Mr. Hitesh Kumar Gulati, Director General, APSWDP, and a senior climate reality leader shared how he is imbibing green practices in HR and other Faculty Management/Development programs and able to see the positive results achieved. More than 200 students participated in the webinar. Webinar on Children for Greener Planet On the eve of Earth Day 2023, the Early Childhood Development Forum (ECDF) conducted a webinar titled, "Children for Greener Planet" in collaboration with the Child Education and Development Research Centre and The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF). Educators worldwide participated, and expert panelists, including Nita Ganguly and Dr. Ketna Atul Matkar, both Climate Reality Leaders, shared their opinions, knowledge, and experiences. Ms. Ganguly emphasized the importance of sustainability education and storytelling to engage children and foster their connection with nature. Dr. Matkar highlighted the significance of children's involvement in promoting behavioral and attitudinal change toward nature. The session was moderated by Smruti S Samantray, Manager - Communication, TCPF. Click here to view the recording of webinar Leadership Acts Pond Rejuvenation – Sunil Mysore Ponds arrest the rainwater runoff that can be used for irrigation. As they slowly recharge the shallow aquifer which can be tapped from a nearby shallow well. On the outskirts of Nagarahole forest, a pond was recharged. The entire runoff from the farm is channeled into this unlined pond. A withdrawal well is made 40 feet away from this pond. The well is 6 feet in diameter and 45 feet deep. Good potable Water is always available in this well throughout the year thanks to rain, soil, and the pond. Col Shashikant Dalvi (Retd.) receives Jal Prahari Award Col Dalvi. (Retd.) was conferred with the "Jal Prahari" award on 29 March 2023, held at New Maharashtra Sadan, New Delhi. He addressed the attendees and explained about the rooftop rainwater harvesting system in urban and rural areas and "Jal Atmanirbhar Abhiyan" in 100 water-starved villages of Beed District, Maharashtra. Now, around 5 Lakh villagers will be free from tanker water and will have a water supply throughout the year. Vidhi Vohra as Panel Speaker A discussion on 'Circularity in Plastics' with industry experts was held at the 3rd Plastics Recycling Conference, Asia (PRCA) on the 28th April 2023 at The Lalit, Mumbai. The session served as a platform for unique insights, fresh perspectives, and thought-provoking ideas where she discussed about 'The today & tomorrow of Plastics Circularity to achieve Sustainable Goals.' Elsie Gabriel at C20 Summit & L'Oréal Women Climate Championship Ms. Gabriel was invited to contribute to the C20 working committee for G20 Global Summit on Environment and Disasters, Gender Equality & Disability Working Group Summit. Policy discussions and consolidation of policy recommendations for each of the 7 sub-themes covered by the Gender Equality & Disability Environment and Disasters Working Group were: Economic Empowerment & Sustainable Livelihoods Education & Skill Development Environment & Disasters She propagated messages for waste segregation. She also conducted ocean clean-up drives with intensive research on ocean plastics in Powai Lake, Mumbai. Her journey started with her selection as part of the first 20 women’s climate cohort by the Maharashtra Government of India. L’Oréal has recognized her efforts for one of the honourable accolades awarded by L'Oréal, i.e., “L'Oréal Women Climate Champion”. Checkout Our Previous Newsletters January - February Newsletter 2023 November - December Newsletter 2022 September - October Newsletter 2022

Newsletter (March-April 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 Teachers' Training Program Sparks Action in Maharashtra Schools In March 2025, Secondary and Higher Secondary Vidyamandir, Poladpur (District Raigad), conducted its first activity under the Teachers' Training Program (TTP), a flagship initiative by The Climate Project Foundation in partnership with Rayat Shikshan Sanstha, Satara. Students were guided by trained teachers to monitor and record the daily Air Quality Index (AQI), cultivating awareness around air quality and environmental responsibility. A creative session further encouraged students to repurpose old clothes into foot mats—an initiative that aimed to reduce dust in classrooms while promoting sustainable, hands-on learning. This marks a milestone as schools from the Raigad district participated in the TTP for the first time. The program, designed to equip educators with the tools to teach climate change effectively, is now active across 20 campuses. The enthusiastic response from students at Vidyamandir Poladpur not only reflects the positive influence of the workshop but also demonstrates how young minds, when empowered, can lead meaningful change. These small yet impactful steps are nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious citizens ready to take action. Teachers' Training at Mater Dei School Empowers Educators for Climate Action On April 24–25, 2024, 67 educators from Mater Dei School, New Delhi, came together for an intensive Teachers' Training Program conducted by the Climate Reality Project under its flagship Green Campus Program. Led by Ms. Rekha Lalla, the sessions introduced the framework of the Green Campus Program, designed to integrate sustainability into school operations through audits in key areas—air, water, waste, energy, biodiversity, climate innovation, and community outreach. Teachers explored their vital role in driving this transformation by guiding students and shaping long-term, climate-conscious school practices. Through a structured five-step approach—orientation, environmental audit, implementation of green practices, student engagement, and progress tracking—participants learned to initiate and sustain meaningful environmental changes on campus. The training emphasized forming eco-committees, conducting waste and energy audits, and encouraging student-led green innovations. The program also highlighted the long-term benefits of sustainability, from reduced utility bills to the development of a healthier learning environment. With strong teacher involvement and practical tools, Mater Dei is now poised to become a model of climate-smart education and community leadership. CLIMATE CHANGE ENGAGEMENTS & ADVOCACY Reality Tour Comes to India: A Transformative Climate Training in New Delhi As part of the global ‘Reality Tour – 2025’ commemorating a decade since the Paris Agreement, The Climate Reality Project brought its signature climate leadership training to New Delhi this April in a new format. On the basis of showcasing their climate action commitments, 120 passionate individuals were selected to join a powerful day of learning, networking, and climate action. The training featured an inspiring virtual keynote by former US Vice President and Nobel Laureate Al Gore, who emphasized the urgency of phasing out fossil fuels and accelerating the global energy transition. He concluded on a positive note about the importance of individual actions, which should never be belittled and instead need to be encouraged in every possible form and format. Regional experts, mentors, and senior Climate Reality Leaders shared deep insights into South Asia’s climate journey, amplifying voices from the Global South. From interactive group sessions to the symbolic ‘Pin Graduation’ ceremony, the day offered a truly memorable and action-oriented experience. With 101 new leaders added to the global network of 56,000+, the event stood as a testament to the growing momentum for climate action in the region—delivered with precision, passion, and purpose. Here are some of the glimpses: Celebrating Young Climate Leaders On 4th March 2025, the ClimAct Initiative, in collaboration with UNESCO, hosted the Graduation Ceremony of the Climate Leadership Programme, honoring 41 young climate leaders for their inspiring work and commitment to sustainability. The event featured a showcase of the top five projects, spotlighting innovative, youth-led solutions to pressing climate challenges. Representing The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF), Mr. Bhavesh Swami and Dr. Sakshi Grover engaged in dynamic conversations on collaboration and shared TCPF’s flagship initiatives—Youth for Earth 2025 and Youth 4 COP 2025. The event fostered meaningful networking, including discussions with Ms. Heeta Lakhani (ClimAct Initiative), Mr. Abhinav (UNESCO), and Mr. Shravan Kumar (We Naturalist), paving the way for potential partnerships to strengthen youth engagement and climate action across South Asia. Earth Day Celebrations – 2025 Though we believe that every day should be treated as Earth Day, the 55th World Earth Day served as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility toward the planet that selflessly nurtures us. From honoring nature’s generous offerings to engaging citizens across age groups, The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) marked the day with a spectrum of impactful activities. Events ranged from keynote addresses, expert sessions, seminars, interactive workshops, art activities, to storytelling and pledge ceremonies—all emphasizing the urgency of climate action and the role each of us plays. Whether through the inspiring leadership of Ms. Rekha Lalla in Chandigarh and Delhi, or Mr. Bhavesh Swami’s clean energy engagements with CSE and Climate Asia, the message remained consistent—our actions, no matter how small, can contribute to a greener future. From Darjeeling to Kulgam, Pune to Lucknow, and Delhi to Chennai, Climate Reality Leaders across India galvanized communities—be it through educational seminars, stakeholder discussions, or hands-on training. Children battling cancer painted a greener tomorrow at Cankids Lucknow, while students in Darjeeling pledged to embrace sustainable lifestyles inspired by the powerful Al Gore climate presentation. Leaders like Mr. Aadil Bhat and Mr. Shivkumar Krishnamoorthy tackled region-specific challenges and engaged working professionals in forward-thinking climate discussions. Others like Krunal Negandhi at the “Save the Earth Conclave” and Nikhil Kamath through literary advocacy showed how diverse approaches—from policymaking to storytelling—can amplify environmental consciousness. Earth Day 2025 was not just a celebration, it was a movement—lived, led, and loved by a wide spectrum of people united in purpose. HIGHLIGHTS Highlight: Climate Reality Leader in action Anand Pendharkar Climate Reality Leader Anand Pendharkar continues to spark change by bringing critical issues to the forefront. As a jury member at the 20th Asian Women’s Film Festival, themed "Voices of Change: Gender and Climate Resilience", he celebrated powerful narratives from the margins and led a session on "Climate Stories of the Marginalised" at the conclave. Partnering with Aradhya Sardesai, he inspired young changemakers during a dynamic workshop for PUKAR Youth Fellows on youth leadership and ecological justice. He also led a Mangrove Awareness Workshop in Virar, empowering local communities to protect vital coastal ecosystems. Nita Ganguly Nita Ganguly, National Coordinator for Waste Management at Climate Reality India and South Asia, led an engaging Climate Reality session at Base Hospital Barrackpore (BHBKP). Interacting with the wives of officers, jawans, and nursing officers, she highlighted the critical role of responsible waste management in combating climate change. The session sparked thoughtful discussions and practical takeaways, empowering participants to become sustainability champions in their communities—proving once again how grassroots action drives meaningful climate impact. Read the article by Rituraj Phukan, National Coordinator, Biodiversity on “The Melting Glaciers-A stark warning from Nature” 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

Water Conservation Water is life. We have been listening to this phrase since time immemorial, but do we realize its importance for our sustenance. India along with some other nations is going through an unprecedented water crisis. There are many factors that have led to this water crisis in our country, the major being the impacts of climate change. Due to climate change we are experiencing erratic rainfalls, cloud bursts, the number of rain days are decreasing, the droughts are drier and draining rivers, aquifers, and reservoirs. In urban as well as rural landscapes, catchment areas are decreasing with large-scale wetland degradation and poor water management. Climate Reality Is Working Intensively On Programs Like Traditional Rainwater Harvesting Systems as Well As Offline / Online Workshops To Create Local Water Warriors.. Success Stories Rain Water Harvesting Project At Ambegaon, Pune The Climate Reality Project - India under the able guidance of our National Coordinator for Water conservation, Col. Shashikant Dalvi (Retd.) launched the Rain Water Harvesting project in 04 districts of Pune namely, Karegaon, Bhavadi, Kurwandi and Thugaon falling under Ambegaon Taluk. With the kind support from ICICI, MAPS, these districts started their journey from being water starved to water sufficient areas. Read Full Story Rain water Harvesting Project at Kamkheda Village, Beed District Beed is one of the worst drought hit districts of the Marathwada region in Maharashtra. The rainfall pattern here is uneven. The region also saw the effects of el-nino phenomenon from 2010-2017. Tens of thousands of Beed residents have no choice but to struggle hard to source the basic necessity – water. With the help of our National Coordinator for Water Conservation, Retd. Col. Shashikant Dalvi, the pilot project to make Beed district water sufficient, was started. A number of awareness programs were conducted on rain water harvesting for the villagers and members of Gram Panchayat of Kaamkheda village in Beed. In April 2018, it was decided to start the implementation of the program in the village. The project was also supported by MAPS Industries (I) Pvt. Ltd. Pune. The project has shown good results and we believe that soon the district will become water- tanker free. The state government is also replicating this project in other Talukas. Read Full Story Read Full Report on our Water Conservation Initiatives Bachega Jal, Banega Kal - Mission Pani We are already facing a water crisis, and climate change is making it worse. With ever-increasing water demand coupled with unpredictable weather conditions, frequent flooding, severe droughts, heatwaves and water tables going down, climate change impacts our water. It will hit hard on water availability for human use. Water conservation and its management play an essential role to fight climate crises. With the current crisis, significance of water conservation becomes even more important. As we are all aware, hygiene is fundamental to our fight against the current pandemic whether it’s washing hands, sanitization or wearing a mask. So, come forward and do your bit, conserve water, practice safety and hygiene and help fight in this war against the pandemic. Taking a step towards solving the water crisis, we support MISSION PANI, an initiative towards saving water and sustaining it for the generations to come. Let’s save more water together. Learn More Take Water Action, Fight the Climate Crisis.' Gallery

Decarbonization India Alliance An action oriented initiative to accelerate India’s decarbonization journey The Decarbonisation India Alliance (DIA), initiated by Society of Energy Engineers and Managers (SEEM), is an ambitious action-oriented project aimed at accelerating the transition towards a low-carbon and sustainable future for India. It is a platform that champions engineers who are at the frontline of implementing change in industries that will need to decarbonise as well as those who can create products and services that will catalyze this decarbonisation. Visit the Website Mission Foster innovation, share best practices, and address barriers to decarbonisation. Facilitate collaboration among key stakeholders, driving tangible, real-world outcomes in India’s energy transformation. Accelerate India's transition to a low-carbon future. Empower engineers with tools and knowledge to lead decarbonisation efforts. Develop and promote catalytic products and services for sustainable development. Partnership with The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia Together with The Climate Reality Project India and South Asia branch, DIA is joining hands with stakeholders committed to helping India achieve its Net Zero targets. This partnership aims to: Hold collective symposiums/workshops across various cities and forums. Act as a catalyst in bridging gaps between climate finance providers, beneficiaries, and policymakers. Mobilize and optimize financial resources to combat climate change effectively. Promotion/usage of ‘Climate Traces’, an initiative, where historic emissions are shown industry/country wise, which is spoken as a database of the future. India's Decarbonisation and Carbon Neutrality Targets Build 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 Build 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 India plans to generate 500 GW of renewable energy like solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear by 2030, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting decarbonization. Reduce carbon emissions by 1 billion tons by 2030 Reduce carbon emissions by 1 billion tons by 2030 Cutting 1 billion tons of CO₂ emissions by 2030 aims to reduce industrial, transport, and energy-related emissions, supporting global climate goals and a transition to carbon neutrality. Reduce carbon intensity below 45% by 2030 Reduce carbon intensity below 45% by 2030 Reducing carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 focuses on lowering emissions per unit of GDP, promoting sustainable growth through cleaner technologies and renewable energy. Achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070 Achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070 India's Net Zero target by 2070 aims to reduce emissions to near zero, with the remainder offset by reforestation and carbon capture. SEEM Energy Award at New Delhi 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. TCPF facilitated a crucial session on carbon management and hosted a networking dinner to discuss the future of the Decarbonisation India Alliance. Ten-City Campaign Raipur Event The Decarbonisation India Alliance (DIA) Ten City Campaign, led by the Society of Energy Engineers and Managers (SEEM) in collaboration with Asar and the India Blockchain Alliance (IBA), was held on June 14, 2024, at Babylon Capital, Raipur. Inaugurated by Mr. Sumit Sarkar, CEO of the Chhattisgarh Biofuel Development Authority, the event highlighted Chhattisgarh’s focus on green hydrogen and biofuels. It featured the ‘Awake, Arise, Decarbonise’ sensitisation camp, engaging 85 professionals through presentations and panel discussions on innovative decarbonisation strategies. With strong industry participation and support from government and private entities, the event laid a solid foundation for DIA’s low-carbon initiatives. Kochi Event On July 10, 2024, the Decarbonisation India Alliance (DIA) launched its Ten City Campaign (TCC) at Hotel Renai, Kochi, in partnership with SEEM, ASAR, The Climate Project Foundation, Social Impact Advisors and India Blockchain Alliance. The event, attended by 85 professionals from sectors like steel, cement, pharma, and hospitality, featured innovative decarbonisation strategies. Highlights included the DIA Sensitization Camp, themed “Awake, Arise, Decarbonise,” and the formation of the CEO Sustainability Forum for Kerala. Distinguished speakers emphasized collaborative efforts, government schemes, and India’s carbon neutrality goals. The campaign fostered engagement, leadership, and sustainable solutions, marking a vital step toward a greener future. Join the Movement Join us in creating a sustainable future for India, wish to be a part of it/know more about it. Contact Us

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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Back Tasnia Ahmed National Coordinator Tasnia Ahmed is a youth development expert on public health and climate action working for 7 years professionally and over a decade of volunteerism. She is working as a Program Manager at SERAC. She is heavily involved with the UNFPA Youth Task-force Committee on Population, SRHR, and Climate Action; Country Coordinator at Climate Reality Project Bangladesh; NDC Reviewer; serves as CSO Asia Representative of the GFF-CSCG steering committee, Country Coordinator of Global South Coalition of Dignified Menstruation, Representative of the International Youth Alliance of Family Planning-Bangladesh, WORTH fellow on Climate Action and Women Empowerment; Fellow of Climate Reality Leadership Program; National Coordinator of the Youth Coalition of Climate Justice (YCCJ) and Global Vice-versa Champion. She joined the COP26, COP27, and COP28 as a youth negotiator to represent the UNFPA Youth Advisory Committee on Climate Action and SRHR. Tasnia's passion for youth leadership, dedication, and experience in the field of climate action make her a negotiator in the global fight against the climate crisis. Her contributions to the climate field have been valued by the Bangladesh government, which allowed her to participate as the official youth delegate to contribute to the NDC process in COP27, followed by presenting the findings (UNFPA-NDC-Global Report_2023.pdf) in COP28. Through NDC findings, I facilitated country access to women's capacity-building support and knowledge resources in response to requests for support on gender mainstreaming in climate action; and surfaced successes, effective practices, and lessons from around the world and widely disseminated these through country peer exchanges and knowledge products, as well as shared empowering tales of women making a difference. Recently, she has started to work as a technical lead to develop the Bangladesh factsheet on Climate Action and Gender, where the factsheet will be catapulted in the upcoming COP29, Bake- Azerbaijan. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Climate Justice Climate justice refers to the idea that all people should have equal access to the Earth's resources and be protected from the impacts of climate change. It encompasses a wide range of issues, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting vulnerable communities from the effects of climate change, and ensuring that the costs of addressing climate change are shared fairly. Climate justice also includes the protection of human rights, the rights of indigenous peoples, and the rights of future generations. It also addresses issues of social and economic inequality and aims to ensure that the most marginalized and vulnerable communities are not disproportionately affected by climate change. At The Climate Project Foundation, we have adopted Climate Justice as a movement to address inequities with adaptation strategies and long-term mitigation. All our initiatives are strategically built on the ethos of utilizing solutions at hand while optimizing adaptation. To do so, we tag the opportunities of empowerment with our initiatives. Making Maharashtra Villages Water-sufficient The climate change-induced diminishing monsoon is expanding to the drought prone-areas of Maharashtra. The water bodies in the affected parts of Maharashtra continue to recede during the pre-monsoon season, affecting the villagers especially women, who are responsible to fetch water for the daily household chores. Water crisis has forced women in some parts of Maharashtra to walk long distances every day and even risk their lives to fetch drinking water by climbing down deep dried wells. The Climate Project Foundation under the guidance of Col. Shashikant Dalvi (Retd.) took up the task of making the villages in Maharashtra water sufficient through rainwater harvesting technique. The project was initiated in the 4 villages (Koregaon, Kurvandi and Thugaon) of Ambegaon Taluka in Pune district. With the kind support from ICICI, MAPS Industries, Vasundhara Sanvardhan, Pune, member of the Panchayat Samitis, Sarpanch, local officials, village residents and other on-ground partners, we have been able to complete the Rainwater Harvesting project at the four villages of Ambegaon Taluka in October 2021, making them tanker-free. Empowering the Local Communities in Odisha Climate change has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of the extreme weather events like cyclones, and floods in the coastal states. Odisha, the eastern coastal state of India, witnessed three cyclones in the year 2021. Super cyclones like Yaas caused heavy rainfall, sweeping and damaging the houses, farmlands and uprooting the trees on its way. The cyclones impact lives and livelihoods of lakhs of people especially the poor coastal communities. To help these coastal communities in Odisha, The Climate Project Foundation launched ‘Mission One Million fruit trees’ in 2019. The mission was launched to help the small and marginalised farmers by generating sustainable livelihoods and ensuring food security through plantation of fruit trees. During 2019-2021, 8.30 lakh trees were planted in the Puri district alone. In the long term, the mission would also help in climate change adaptation and mitigation. Climate Change Education in rural districts of Maharashtra The Climate Reality Project India focuses on education and capacity building in a fight against climate change through its Education Programs i.e. Teachers Training Program and Green Campus Program. The Education programs aim at sensitizing the educators and students about climate change impacts and solutions at hand. We prioritize local solutions and empower educational institutes to take climate action. We collaborated with one of the biggest educational societies in Maharashtra, Rayat Shikshan Sanstha with 444 Secondary Schools to take climate change education for deeper engagement in rural districts of Maharashtra. Our Teachers Training Program is being implemented in 50 schools and Green Campus Program in 5 schools from 5 districts (Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur, Solapur and Pune) of Maharashtra in its first phase. This will ensure that the educational institutions have capacities to teach about climate change and create a green and sustainable environment for students to learn and take the message of sustainability forward through climate actions.

The Climate Reality Project India Newsletter (Nov-Dec) 2022 Our newsletter will provide updates from our programs, our fellow Climate Reality Leaders who are making difference and how each one of us can act to solve the crisis. And, we would love to know your story and act of leadership, because every action does matter. MOU Signed with Chitkara University and International Schools On 16th November 2022, The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) signed an MOU with two Chitkara International Schools and Chitkara University. Chitkara International School stakeholders, Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Director of Chitkara International Schools, Chandigarh and Panchkula, signed the MoU with TCPF, which was executed in the Chandigarh school campus in the presence of Mr Aditya Pundir, Director – India & South Asia, TCPF and Ms. Rekha Lalla, Green School Programme Manager, TCPF. Another MOU was signed at the Chitkara College of Education, and in collaboration with Chitkara School of Psychology by Dr. Madhu. A counselling session, “an Expert Talk on Understanding the Climate Crises" was also organised. Paryavaran Rakshak Programme - A Nukkad Natak Competition As a part of its annual flagship event, GRIHA Summit 2022 (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment), GRIHA Council organized “Paryavaran Rakshak Programme, a Nukkad Natak Competition” in partnership with The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) with an objective to highlight the needs of involvement of students in sustainable development. The 14th GRIHA Summit was held on December 15th -16th, 2022 at the India Habitat Center, New Delhi. It anchored on the theme, “Towards Net Positive Habitats”. Ms Rekha Lalla, Manager – Green Campus Program, TCPF participated in the event and also served as a “Jury Member” for Nukkad Nataks that were presented in the prelude days of the summit, i.e. on November 18, 2022 at the Open Amphitheatre (OAT), India Habitat Centre. Nukkad Natak competition was based on the theme “Earth ko Anarth se Bachaye”. Save Aravalli Walk “Save Aravalli Walk” took place on 27th November 2022. The walk started with an orientation from Mr. Jitender Bhadana, co - founder of Save Aravalli Trust, about the richness of biodiversity in the area and also threw light on the waste management practices currently followed by people and how it is finding its last resting place in the Aravalli’s, unfortunately as they are the only open spaces available in the NCR belt. The 6-kilometres trail got to an exciting start with an identification quiz of local vs vilayati ‘kikar’ that was introduced some decades ago which created imbalance with local flora and fauna. Goats, cows, camels and other animals eat desi kikar leaves fondly leaving other variants totally untouched, hence its abundance. Moreover, the thorny bushes are a threat to wildlife as well with reported injuries to leopard cubs, deers and other bird species. Beautiful viewpoints/ selfie points came on the way as elevation was gained, including the beautiful cactus garden and the group-built comradeship among fellow trekkers, some of whom were as young as eighty years old. The discussions were also held about proposing a site for garbage in Bandwari, which is witnessing some resistance as it is releasing leachate into the soil threating the soil quality and water bodies. Bhavesh Swami, Lead Clean Energy and Engagement, The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) shared how TCPF is bringing positive change in the society by empowering schools and colleges. The walk saw 100+ participants. Cleanliness Drive in Pune A “Cleanliness Drive Campaign” was organized in Viman Nagar, Pune with the help of youth. The drive aimed at generating awareness amongst the community to bring out clean initiatives in the locality. It was conducted as a part of Adar Poonawalla Clean City Initiative in collaboration with The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF). Along with the representatives from Adar Poonawalla, 100+ students from Symbiosis University were present in the event. The drive resulted in the collection of 300 kgs waste from the trail. Webinar on National Energy Conservation Day An online seminar on the eve of National Energy Conservation Day was held on 14th December 2022 to commemorate the National Energy Conservation Day 2022 with the theme “Energy Conservation in India 2022: Present and Future Trends.” The webinar was organized by Chitkara University and Association of Professional Social Workers & Development Practitioners (APSWDP) in partnership with The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF). The webinar was driven to talk about the understanding of energy conservation and restoration, the way forward for future trends in energy usage patterns. Mr. Bhavesh Swami, Lead Clean Energy and Engagements, TCPF, delivered a talk about what energy is and built a holistic viewpoint onto its world perspective and importance for a country like India. He threw light on what student community should be doing to be more aware in their daily lives and how small ‘driven’ actions taken individually at home or at school/university level can bring a drastic change. An interactive question and answer session was conducted with 50+ students joined the session and asked very practical questions to understand the changes they collectively need to take up as students and as groups to make a shift towards sustainable energy sources. Green Jobs Conclave 2022 On 15th December 2022, The Green Jobs conclave was held at the Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies, Pune in collaboration with The Climate Project Foundation & Adar Poonawalla Clean City and ExploreiT. It was organized to enlighten the students about Green Jobs and how they can plan their career in this domain. The Conclave started with the national anthem followed by the hosts giving a brief about the theme of the conclave. The session was organized to help the participants in building their knowledge around green economy, green careers, and green courses with experts from various colleges/universities offering allied courses. Additionally, they were also elaborated about the required skillsets. Dr. Adya Sharma, the director of SCMS Pune and the academic host for the event, addressed the audience and facilitated the guest panel. A Workshop on Green Campus Program in Gyan Anant Vidyalaya On 3rd December, a workshop was conducted in the Gyan Aanant Vidyalaya by Mobius Foundation in collaboration with The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF). The objective of the session was to introduce the teachers to our Green Campus Program so that they can carry out the audit in their premises, while explaining the audit to the Green Campus Committee. Ms. Rekha Lalla, Manager – Green Campus Program, TCPF hosted the workshop. She conducted workshops for all 40 teachers present there and gave them ideas to use the resources present in the school campus to connect students to the environment. The teachers were divided into 7 groups-Air, Water, Waste, Energy, Biodiversity, Climate innovation and Community Outreach to work with a group of students to do the audit of their existing school infrastructure. They were shown videos and work of other schools too. Teachers of each group will now have an online workshop with Mrs. Rekha Lalla to understand the process of audit and their respective topic. 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CLIMATE CHANGE AWARENESS PROGRAM When The Climate Reality Project India started its mission in 2009, the first challenge was to make people aware about the science and impacts of Climate change as there was very little awareness about the crisis. We started the Climate Change Awareness Program to make people understand that our climate is changing and the solutions are in our hands. Under this program, the well trained and expert Climate Reality Leaders give the customized and curated presentation on the science, impacts and solutions of Climate change for the region. Through this program, we collaborate with our partners to organize and conduct presentations. We have been proactively engaging the businesses, commercial associations, government, media houses, educational institutions and resident communities in climate change conversations. Climate Change Conversations Zee Entertainment The Climate Reality Project India collaborated with Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. to impart education and training on environmental issues. It all began with the “Climate Impact” program, which is a series of workshops that was conducted for the employees of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. These sessions/workshops were led by Climate Reality Leaders who are field experts on various environmental issues and have in-depth knowledge and years of experience in working towards creating a more sustainable environment. Request an Expert Presentation

The Climate Reality Project India Newsletter (Sep-Oct) 2022 Our newsletter will provide updates from our programs, our fellow Climate Reality Leaders who are making difference and how each one of us can act to solve the crisis. And, we would love to know your story and act of leadership, because every action does matter. 4th International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE) 4th International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE) was organized on 9th & 10th of September, 2022. It was celebrated with much fanfare and attendance in hybrid mode after the pandemic. Newer collaborations and partnerships were forged to dovetail education and sustainability together. 21 schools from Northern part of India were also facilitated with their respective badges as obtained under the GCP rankings. The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) had created an interactive kiosk at the event venue that was based on activities: Pledge wall to create Green Ring; Online Quiz wherein the winners were provided with badges were distributed to the participants who scored more than ⅘ in the quiz; and Placard messaging and Selfie Booth with an active “Make a Difference” campaign. Approximately, 20 Climate Reality Leaders participated in the event. Team TCPF was actively associated in conducting two sessions: a) Celebrations of Net Zero Carbon & Impact Journey: GCP Schools ki Zubaani and b) Youth For Earth Championship. a) Celebrations of Net Zero Carbon & Impact Journey: GCP Schools ki Zubaani The session, “Celebrations of Impact Journey,” aimed at putting the spotlights on the impact journey of the Green Campus Program (GCP) schools that have transformed their conventional campuses into sustainable ones. The objective of the session was to provide a platform for connecting educators, practitioners and policy makers across the globe to promote sustainability education and learning, as well as to provide opportunities for building partnerships and collaborations to strengthen Sustainability Education. The session was moderated by: Ms. Rekha Lalla, Manager- Green Campus Program, TCPF. During the session, the panellists shared their experiences with the audiences about how with the help of this program they have amplified their organizational goals and how they engage the students, teachers, local communities, parents, and various other stakeholders, holistically, to create sustainable impacts on the society and the lives of the future generations bringing in behavioural and attitudinal changes. One of our trustees, Mr Kamal Meattle addressed the gathering of GCP Winners. He stressed on the current climatic conditions and a solution to this problem. The awards were presented by Mr. Aditya Pundir, Director – India & South Asia. Followed by awards for the 22 Green Campuses-GCP schools shared their Success Stories. Schools presented their initiatives according to the theme wherein they have showcased their best in the journey transformation. They are: Air & Energy: Sadhu Vaswani School, Delhi Water: SD Vidya School, Ambala, Haryana Waste: KIIT School Gurgaon, Haryana Biodiversity: The Mann School, Delhi You can view the winners here . b) Youth For Earth Youth For Earth is a collaborative initiative of both Mobius Foundation and The Climate Project Foundation, India & South Asia. Youth For Earth Championship offers a platform to the youth to come forward with their plan of action to mitigate climate crisis. This time, we invited applications from India and some of the South Asian countries, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka, based on the 7 themes as given below: Climate Change - SDG 13 (Climate Action) Water Management - SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) Waste Management - SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) Air Pollution - SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) Energy Efficiency and Conservation - SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) Population and Sustainability - SDG 5 (Gender Equality) Nature and Biodiversity - SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) All the participants had to choose one of the themes as their majors and rest of the themes can act allied to it. The session was moderated by Ms. Smruti S Samantray – Manager Communication and Campaigns, TCPF. The members of the team were invited to the podium to share their story about how they completed the projects; what were the challenges they had faced; and impacts and outcomes of their efforts, among others. We also showcased the video reports, followed by award ceremony. Here are the names of the winners: Junior Category Team Pramiti Team SD's Change Makers Team Terra Time Team Pune Plastic Warriors Team Greening Mother Earth Team Urvara Senior Category Project Ikhtiyar Crew for Climate Know more about them here . Stakeholder’s Workshop on Climate Change Education Mainstreaming in School Ecosystem A workshop on Climate Change Education Mainstreaming in School Ecosystem was conducted for the stakeholders by GIZ India, with support of MoEFCC, GoI and with Vikram A. Sarabhai Community Science Centre as implementation partner, and in association with The Climate Project Foundation. The objective of the workshop was to deliberate with the important stakeholders and provide them feedback and recommendations on the inclusion of climate change education in the school ecosystem. Some of the important dimensions that were discussed are: Content: To blend the content for climate change with the curriculum as deems fit for middle school Pedagogical aspects: Climate change learning spaces in schools should not bring in more academic load to the students or be seen as an extra burden by the teachers, students, or parents. Further, it must be aligned with the NEP (National Education Policy) guidelines, where learning moves out of classrooms into an experiential and action-based education. Thus, the workshop included deliberations on these pedagogical aspects. Infrastructure: Inclusion of climate change education in the schools & the need for creating associated infrastructure for the teachers training and the development of instructional aides was emphasized. A lucid account of the infrastructural requirements is essential in scaling up climate change learning spaces in the school system, which was an important point of discussion. Replication and scaling up: Activities based on Climate change education should have the potential to be easily replicated across the country. Challenges can be many due to the wide variety of education systems found across the country. Hence, the learning processes and activities should be easily adaptable to the regional requirements and easy to implement in any classroom. Thus, the deliberations will revolve around enabling conditions for easy replications and in scaling up climate change education in schools. Global Coastal Clean-up Day 2022 As a part of the 'International Coastal Clean-up Day' initiative on 17 September 2022, a massive coastal clean-up drive was organized in Chennai led by one of our Climate Reality Leaders, Ms. Sangeetha Sivadasini. The clean-up drive was initiated by communiTREE Trust, with more than 10,000 registered volunteers from various schools, colleges, corporate houses, NGOs, etc. The volunteers were educated on the importance of Waste segregation at home and also pledged to practice a plastic free lifestyle. More than 1.3 tonnes of plastic and other waste were cleared from 44 beach stretches along the Chennai coastline. The waste collected was picked up by Urbaser Sumeet for recycling. The Climate Project Foundation provided approximately 2000 certificates to the volunteers from schools such as Lady Andal, PSBB, Apollo Hospitals, and other corporates. Young Indians Climate Summit 2022 Young Indians Climate Summit 2022 was organized on 19th September, 2022. Mr. Bhavesh Swami, Clean Energy Policy and Programs Consultant, TCPF. The Climate Project Foundation participated in the Yi Climate Action Summit 2022 under the larger umbrella of Yi Climate Action Week 2022 that brought together leaders, change makers, youth, and all stakeholders to accelerate efforts for collective thought and climate action. The platform enabled knowledge exchange about the impacts of climate change, promoted understanding of individual responsibility, and foster skill development among the youth to tackle climate change. Mr. Swami shared how TCPF is working on climate solutions in the category of clean energy, rainwater harvesting training and entrepreneurship opportunities for the youth coming from rural areas along with the engagement models used to train these people on-site on live projects and how then they start working in nearby regions on their own. More than 200 people participated in the summit. 24 Hours of Reality (12th Edition) This year was twelfth 24 Hours of Reality presentation. This year the focus was on the powerful progress made by community activists where they live. The theme for our session was, “Building Green Communities,” with a focus on how Green Communities are being created and supported by Climate Reality and its leadership network. The panellists of our 1 hour of broadcast were Matthew Boms, Director of Strategic Programs, Latin America Branch; Aditya Pundir, Director, India and South Asia Branch and Isadora Gran, Climate Engagement and Justice Coordinator, Brazil Branch, moderated by Al Gore, Former VP of USA, and Nobel Laureate. The discussions extended to native tree plantation; training of locals on climate change related issues, regenerative agriculture, multiplier effect on low-cost pest technologies using organic/nature-based solutions, lesser chemicals, green education via sustainable campuses. Virtual Dialogue on Ozone Day 2022 World Ozone Day 2022 is marked on 16 September, and is observed under Montreal Protocol@35 with the theme "Global Cooperation Protecting Life on Earth". The theme recognises the wider impact the Montreal Protocol has on climate change and the need to act in collaboration, forge partnerships and develop global cooperation to address climate challenges and protect life on earth for future generations. Virtual Centre of Excellence for Social Welfare Administration (VCoE-SWA), under the aegis of Association of Professional Social Workers and Development Practitioners (APSWDP) organized a virtual dialogue/ program in partnership with Chitkara College of Education, Chitkara University, Signicent LLP, and The Climate Reality Project India (TCPI). Guest Speaker, Ms. Supriya Salaria provided insights on “Ozone Layer Protection and Sustainable Development”, and Guest Speaker, Mr. Hitesh Kumar Gulati engaged the audience in a "Quiz on World Ozone Day 2022". An active participation was seen from people from varied walks of life, including Academicians, Business Consultant, Corporate Sector Professional, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Professional, Development Practitioner, Entrepreneur, Government Officers, Public Health Expert, Legal Practitioner, Researcher, Social Activist, Students and others. Workshop on Eco-friendly Diwali A workshop on eco-friendly Diwali celebrations was conducted in Mount Abu School, Rohini, Delhi by Ms. Rekha Lalla, Manager- Green Campus Program, TCPF. At the onset of Diwali, the children of the school decided to celebrate noiseless and pollution free Diwali by not bursting the firecrackers and spreading awareness among their neighbourhoods. The objective of this programme was to generate awareness about the environment among the teaching community & students. Ms. Lalla underlined that Diwali is the festival of light and no celebration of this festival is considered with the use of firecrackers. And, bursting of fireworks cause severe air and noise pollution posing serious health hazards. Firecrackers contain sulphur and carbon, when these firecrackers are lit, these chemicals are released into the air, reducing air quality drastically. This is the reason this workshop was being organised. She shared several mitigation tactics of how one can convert a few celebrations into environment-friendly means. The workshop was interactive and the students found them useful. Approximately 700 children attended the session and pledged to carry these sensibilities forward and act on them. The Picture Protest 2022 On the 7th of October, 2022, more than 300 students from the Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies, Pune, gathered in the campus amphitheatre to raise their voice against the rapidly changing temperatures and irregular rainfall patterns in Pune. Hundreds of students assembled with their umbrellas, to express their disdain toward these ever-changing climate forecasts. The protest started with a small, motivational speech from the Director of SCMS, Pune, Dr. Adya Sharma, followed by a speech from Mr. Shivam Singh, an alumnus of the institution and National Coordinator – Youth Engagement. After the speeches, the students and teachers witnessed plausible thematic performances of dance and music, performed by the students themselves. The event concluded with the students writing their displeasure about the climate changes on postcards, and finally gathering for a picture with their umbrellas, to express their protest against irregular rainfall patterns. The event was a huge success, with hopes of conducting many more such events in the future. Stephen Mills from US Headquarters Visited India Mr. Stephen Mills, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, Climate Reality Project was in India to meet the India & South Asia branch staff members, Climate Reality Leaders, and other stakeholders. He also learned about the works done by the branch along with the current status of different entities in the region on Climate Change issues and how they are preparing for CoP27. Mr. Mills had a meeting with Shloka Nath, CEO, India Climate Collaborative, Mumbai to discuss about the possibility of hosting in-person training by Mr. Gore in the region in 2023; to ideate how more corporates and HNIs can form a collation to fight climate change; and about routing CSR funds from corporates for ‘on-ground’ implementation. He also interacted with Rajiv Kumar, General Manager, Green Climate & Energy Efficiency Centre, SIDBI for CSR projects and green campus transformations, in addition to sharing success stories that catalyse circular economy. A meeting with Ajay Mathur, DG, International Solar Alliance, underlined the opportunities to collaborate for ‘March towards Net Zero Campus,’ Green Jobs in the Solar Sector, and transforming the campuses of governmental institutions green in ISA region/ country. In addition to this, CRL - Meet N’ Greet sessions for Climate Reality Leaders were organized in Maharashtra and Delhi-NCR. Meet N’ Greet in Mumbai On 13th October, 2022, Meet N’ Greet sessions for Climate Reality Leaders in Maharashtra was held in Mumbai. Ms. Nita Ganguly discussed about the initiatives she has been undertaking to curb climate crisis and how she introduced RUCO to wider audience during the pandemic. Her blog on RUCO can be read here. The interactions also involved on how ocean education can be brought into due regard by the media; how sustainable education and sustainable travel can be promoted through her visits to various places; how we can make the best use of visuals and storytelling to communicate climate change to the masses and zero waste targets. Her daughter Dr Amrita Ganguly and her husband Ayan Banerjee were also there. Both are trained Climate Reality Leaders from Houston. Mr. Nikhil Kamath emphasized on the best way to reach out to the youth and other communities with story-telling and sharing the message of hope. Ms. Varsha Rajkhowa, another Climate Reality Leader from the North-eastern India, emphasized on sustainable living in Nagaland and plastic free festival celebration; water management during Hornbill festival; and forest fire campaign that she had done with Bhutan forest officials among other topics. Meet N’ Greet in New Delhi On 14th October, 2022, Meet N’ Greet sessions for Climate Reality Leaders in Delhi-NCR was held in New Delhi. After the introduction of the attendees, all the Climate Reality Leaders discussed about their domain of work and the recent activities they have been involved in. Approximately 13 Climate Reality Leaders were there. Heavy interactions were carried out within the verticals of EV, Renewable Energy, Education & GCP impacts (along with integrating tree plantation drives in GCP), and impact of media. They also shared the kind of support they seek from us, TCPF.