Newsletter (July-August 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!
National Youth Conference on
Climate Change - 9.0
Nepalese Youth for Climate Action (NYCA) held the 9th National Youth Conference on Climate Change (NYCCC) from July 26-28, 2024, in Kathmandu, Nepal, with The Climate Reality Project - India and South Asia as its global outreach partner. Six students from Nepal were selected for the Youth for COP sessions organized by us, preparing them to represent Nepal at COP29.
A total of 80 young participants from South Asia attended the conference, including 75 participants who joined the session led by Mr. Pradeep Bhattarai, National Coordinator - Climate Justice at The Climate Reality Project - India and South Asia.
On the final day, Mr. Bhattarai reflected on the achievements of the 9th NYCCC and outlined future plans. He emphasized the need to strengthen networks with other youth organizations, government bodies, and international partners to enhance climate actions. He stressed the importance of capacity-building programs, including workshops and mentorship, to equip youth leaders with the skills to drive change. He also highlighted the role of policy advocacy and community engagement in creating systemic change, encouraging youth to engage in grassroots activities.
Mr. Bhattarai concluded with a call to action, urging participants to remain committed to climate justice and take ownership of the movement for a sustainable future.
Green Campus Conclave at
NEERI Campus, Nagpur
The Green Campus Conclave at NEERI Campus, Nagpur, on July 5, 2024, brought together experts and educators to discuss sustainability within educational institutions. The event was highlighted by insightful talks from Ms. Rekha Lalla and Mr. Ganesh Satav, both of whom delivered valuable perspectives on climate action and green campus initiatives.
Ms. Rekha Lalla's talk, titled "Climate Change: The New Reality," provided a deep dive into the science, impacts, and solutions related to climate change. She effectively communicated the urgency of the climate crisis, translating complex scientific concepts into accessible information, and stressing the need for immediate action.
Mr. Ganesh Satav's detailed presentation on the "Green Campus Programme & Teachers Training Program" showcased practical strategies for fostering sustainability within educational institutions. He highlighted the Green Schools Initiative and the essential role of educators in promoting sustainability. His emphasis on the Teachers Training Program underscored the importance of equipping educators to lead climate action in schools.
Collectively, these sessions underscored the significance of integrating sustainability into education and inspired the audience to take actionable steps toward creating environmentally responsible and Net Zero campuses. The event served as a platform to inspire attendees to drive sustainability initiatives within their own institutions.
Decarbonisation India Alliance (DIA)
10-City Campaign (TCC)
On July 10, 2024, the Decarbonisation India Alliance (DIA) launched its 10-City Campaign (TCC) at Hotel Renai, Kochi, in collaboration with TCPF, SEEM, ASAR Social Impact Advisors, and the India Blockchain Alliance. This ambitious campaign aims to promote low-carbon development pathways across India by popularizing sustainable practices and innovative technologies in various sectors. The event was attended by 85 professionals from industries such as iron & steel, cement, pharma, hotels, and hospitals, where innovative decarbonisation strategies were discussed.
The event was divided into two parts. The first, titled "Awake, Arise, Decarbonise," focused on raising awareness about decarbonisation through presentations by organizations like Tata Power Renewable Energy Pvt. Ltd. and the Kerala State Productivity Council. This session encouraged interaction between attendees and experts, addressing queries and providing solutions.
The second part saw the formation of the CEO Sustainability Forum for Kerala, aimed at promoting leadership in sustainable practices. This forum will work to disseminate state and central government initiatives and accelerate the adoption of new decarbonisation solutions. TCPF will play a key role in facilitating this collaboration. Key figures like Mr. Binilal and Dr. Harikumar attended as Guests of Honour.
Faculty Development Program at
Maharaja Agrasen University, Baddi
Under the Faculty Development Program, an orientation session on "Climate Change and the Role of Colleges in Climate Action under Green Campus Programme" was organized by MAU, Baddi. Mr. Aditya Pundir, Director TCPF addressed 100 faculty members, delivering an insightful presentation on climate change, its problems and potential solutions, emphasizing local and sustainable practices.
Prof. (Dr.) Pardeep Singh Walia expressed gratitude to Mr. Aditya Pundir, shared the institution's green initiatives and commitment to achieving net zero and carbon neutrality to make their campus environmentally friendly.
MoU with LCOY India
The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) and the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) India 2024 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to form a strategic partnership aimed at empowering youth to address climate change. This collaboration leveraged shared goals and networks to enhance climate awareness and engagement among young people. The partnership had two main objectives: first, to empower youth by providing education and tools to understand and tackle climate change through programs that built climate literacy and advocacy skills. Second, to raise awareness about critical issues like Clean Energy and Just Transition through workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions.
LCOY India 2024, organized by Enact Earth Foundation, Bring Back Green Foundation, Sattvic Soul Foundation, and See Pad
Foundation, was scheduled for August 15-18, 2024, in Mysore, Karnataka. TCPF, as a knowledge partner, contributed expert insights and updated climate science and policy information. Additionally, TCPF sponsored five delegates to attend the event, supporting young climate advocates in becoming effective leaders. The foundation also provided content design and media support, ensuring the event’s educational materials and communications were impactful and far-reaching.
MoU with SEEM
We have signed an MoU with the Society of Energy Engineers & Managers (SEEM) to support the country's decarbonization efforts. On September 16, 2023, SEEM has launched a significant initiative aimed at advancing this mission during the SEEM National Energy Management Awards. SEEM has formed strategic partnerships with reputable organizations to enhance the Decarbonization India Alliance (DIA), leveraging the expertise and broad reach of these collaborators.
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The Climate Project Foundation, a not-for-profit organization working in sustainability, has come forward to offer full support to enable the high-level alliance with their professionalism and industry connections.
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SEEM has proposed to induct The Climate Project Foundation as a 'PARTNER' in the Decarbonization India Alliance (DIA).
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SEEM and The Climate Project Foundation have joined hands as PARTNERS of DIA, with the aim of creating a common platform to share knowledge and help their members learn from industry experts in both associations.
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SEEM and The Climate Project Foundation have agreed to exchange information on the latest developments in their respective areas of common interest and to jointly conduct programs that benefit DIA members.
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Industry concerns related to energy efficiency, decarbonization, climate change, and environmental responsibility have been given importance.
MoU Signing with Chandigarh Group of Colleges (CGC), Jhanjeri
On July 10, 2024, The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) and Chandigarh Group of Colleges (CGC), Jhanjeri, formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Green Campus Programme. This initiative aims to promote sustainable practices and environmental awareness on the college campus. The MoU was signed by Aditya Pundir, Director of TCPF, and Arsh Dhaliwal, Managing Director of CGC, in the presence of both teams.
Following the signing, TCPF organized a Faculty Orientation Session on "Climate Change and the Role of Colleges in Climate Action," attended by 130 faculty members. Aditya Pundir delivered a presentation emphasizing climate change, local solutions, and sustainable practices. Bhavesh Swami from TCPF discussed mentoring students in green initiatives under the Green Campus Programme, guiding them toward net zero and carbon neutrality.
As part of the campaign #EkPedMaaKeNaam, both TCPF and CGC teams participated in a tree plantation activity, symbolizing their commitment to sustainability. CGC expressed their dedication to future green projects and requested ongoing guidance from TCPF to enhance their Green Campus Programme. This partnership aims to actively engage faculty and students in climate action, fostering a culture of sustainability.
MoU signing with Government Polytechnic for Women (GPW), Chandigarh
On July 10, 2024, The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) and Government Polytechnic for Women (GPW), Chandigarh, formalized their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the GPW Principal's Office. The meeting, attended by Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jhamb, Ms. Poonam, and faculty members, highlighted GPW’s interest in joining the Green Campus Programme. Key discussions included GPW's existing green initiatives and challenges, with TCPF committing to help overcome these obstacles. This MoU marks the beginning of a collaborative journey aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility at GPW.
Opening Ceremony: Youth 4 COP
The virtual inaugural ceremony of Youth 4 COP (Y4C) aimed to involve youth in climate action and UNFCCC processes. Moderated by Mr. Bhavesh Swami, the event featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), and members from partner organizations such as IYCN and CANSA. Mr. Aditya Pundir, Director of TCPF - India & South Asia, emphasized the critical role of youth in addressing climate challenges and achieving Net Zero targets through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
He highlighted the importance of raising youth voices to develop innovative climate solutions and acknowledged the collaboration with CANSA and IYCN. Dr. Ajay Mathur discussed COP's role in shaping inclusive climate policies, especially for emerging countries and Small
Island Developing States (SIDs). The Y4C program, with over 1000 registrations from South Asia, saw 400+ participants attend the opening session.
Students Climate Action Conference 2024
Students Climate Action Conference (SCAC) is a platform wherein students learn more about how climate change impacts them, their future, and the communities around them. They get to select their niche and share their voice through this platform.
The Climate Project Foundation introduced the ‘Students Climate Action Conference 2024’ as part of its Green Campus Programme, focusing on empowering students from grades 8 to 12 across South Asia to address local climate change issues. The mission of the conference is to unite students in tackling campus environmental challenges by encouraging them to engage with community leaders, teachers, and neighbours to gain insights into climate change through their lived experiences.
Seven schools from India and Nepal participated in the event, while Bangladesh's submission was retracted due to political unrest. The program included six mentoring sessions led by experts, providing students with guidance on conducting interviews, creating questionnaires, and compiling their findings systematically.
The final event on August 24, 2024, saw over 1,340 students participating via Zoom and YouTube, with 3,500-4,000 students joining through live streaming. The social media campaign, featuring a video by Ms. Rekha Lalla, garnered over 21,000 views. A panel of four external jury members evaluated the students’ submissions, with Mothers Public School, Odisha, winning first prize. Other awardees included schools from Kashmir, Darjeeling, Tamil Nadu, and Pune, with St. Teresa’s Girls High Secondary School, West Bengal, receiving the "Most Popular School Award."
LCOY India 2024
LCOY India 2024, held from August 15-18 in Mysore, Karnataka, was India’s largest youth-led climate event. Organized by the Bring Back Green Foundation and other partners, with The Climate Reality Project - India & South Asia as a Knowledge Partner, the event brought together 190 youth and 50 children from 26 states and 8 Union Territories. As Knowledge Partner, we supported LCOY India team for content & design, promotions and media support, and also sponsored the following five delegates.
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Dr. Sakshi Grover, Environment Consultant TCPF
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Mr. Vikrant Srivastava, Co-Founder of Lead4Earth
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Ms. Gayathri K. Reddy, Founder of NOW Venture & KReate Foundation
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Ms. Matrika Ghimiray, PhD Scholar at IIT-Bombay
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Mr. Srikrishna Mysore, a student at Delhi Public School.
Mr. Vikrant Srivastava, a Climate Reality Leader, delivered an insightful presentation on the COP and YOUNGO processes. His session provided participants with a clear understanding of international climate negotiations, setting the stage for deeper discussions.
On the second day, Mr. Sunil Mysore, another Climate Reality Leader, led a session on Clean Energy and Just Transition. He emphasized the role of decentralization in achieving decarbonization. The session was highly interactive, with participants enthusiastically exploring local clean energy solutions and their potential for global impact. Mr. Mysore’s approach inspired and informed the attendees, addressing all their questions.
Day three highlighted youth entrepreneurship in climate solutions, with Gayathri K. Reddy, a Climate Reality Leader and founder of NOW Venture & KReate Foundation, inspiring participants to explore climate ventures and emphasized the vital role of youth in driving innovation and change.
Matrika Ghimiray, a Climate Reality Leader from Sikkim, facilitated discussions on Mitigation and Just Transition, contributing to the National Youth Statement (NYS) drafted from 1,832 youth voices. This session was instrumental in shaping the content of the National Youth Statement.
Field visits provided hands-on experiences, enhancing participants' knowledge of sustainable practices. The event concluded with the presentation of the NYS to senior officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and UNICEF.
LCOY India 2024 served as a platform for youth to engage meaningfully in climate action, marking a major milestone in amplifying young voices in climate discourse.
Green Campus Conclave in Darjeeling
The Green Campus Conclave was held on August 7, 2024, at St. Teresa’s Girls’ Higher Secondary School in Darjeeling. This event aimed to raise awareness and train teachers about sustainable campus practices. Fourteen teacher representatives from Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong participated in the session. As part of the event, handmade notebooks made from recycled paper and pencils were distributed to the attendees.
Mrs. Kamlesh Rai, the coordinator of St. Teresa’s Girls’ Higher Secondary School and program manager for the Darjeeling District Green Campus Team, outlined the policies and operations of the Green Campus Team within educational institutions. She emphasized the importance of sustainability in schools. Following this, Ms. Priya Rai presented the process for completing the Pre-Audit form, a requirement for newly registered schools under the Green Campus initiative.
Ms. Priya Rai guided the participants through the seven key domains of the Green Campus Programme—Air Quality, Water Management, Waste Management, Biodiversity, Energy Efficiency, Climate Innovation, and Community Outreach. She explained how schools would need to focus on these areas and submit audit forms as part of their commitment to sustainability efforts. The session provided valuable insights into creating eco-friendly educational environments.
Faculty Development Program for Poona College of Arts, Science, and Commerce
Under the Green Campus Programme, an online Faculty Development Program was organized for Poona College of Arts, Science, and Commerce, with 88 participants, including 13 faculty members, attending. The program aimed to educate participants on climate action and sustainability.
Mr. Bhavesh Swami led a session on the science, impact, and solutions to the climate change crisis. He highlighted various renewable energy projects across the country, discussed the latest developments in renewable energy, and emphasized the importance of youth engagement in combating climate change.
Dr. Amruta Deshmukh followed with an introduction to the Green Campus Programme (GCP) for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). She explained the necessity of climate action and how GCP aligns with Mission LiFE, UGC circulars, and NAAC norms. Dr. Deshmukh detailed the program's five thrust areas, which focus on sustainability, the outreach and roadmap for effective implementation, resource materials provided, and the role of The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) in guiding institutions. She also shared examples of best practices implemented by other GCP campuses.
The session emphasized on the critical role of education in climate action and provided insights into how institutions can integrate sustainable practices into their operations while excelling in the education sector.
Acts of Leadership by
Climate Reality Leaders
Elsie Gabriel
Ms. Gabriel was honoured at the Vivekananda International Relations Peace Awards for contributions to global welfare and progress.
She also presented the Ocean Literacy Book, advocating for ocean literacy and climate education to be included in education policy. This initiative aims to empower youth and citizen scientists in contributing to the Ocean Decade 2030 goals. Dr. Asle Toje, deputy leader of the Nobel Committee and an esteemed scholar in geopolitics, was present for the occasion.
Shivam Singh
Mr. Singh helped in the event for the Symbiosis Law School, Pune, part of Symbiosis International University, which hosted an intensive Executive Workshop titled "Climate Justice: Advancing SDG and ESG through Impactful CSR Proposals." The event was organized by the Jean Monnet Chair EU Climate Justice Law, Governance, Management and Policy (EUC-LAMP) in collaboration with ExploreiT and The Climate Reality Project - India & South Asia.
Prafulla Dhal
Mr. Dhal was invited as an eminent speaker for Odisha CSR & Sustainability Excellence awards 2024 organised by ASSOCHAM Odisha State Development Council.
Varsha Rajkhowa
To mark the Silver Jubilee of Kargil Vijay Diwas on 26th July, the nationwide plantation drive “Zara Yaad Karo Kurbani” commenced. Varsha Rajkhowa, founder of Oceanic Divas, her father Ex-Air Force Officer Wg Cdr Atul Chandra Rajkhowa, and locals planted seedlings near Kargil airport.
This was a follow-up activity of the Himalayan Clean Up Drive at the Kargil War Memorial on June 5, 2024.
Parth Joshi
Mr. Joshi's article, “Making Adventure Tourism Safer,” published in The Tribune India, highlights that while risk is an inherent aspect of adventure, preparedness is essential for managing potential challenges. It calls for turning introspection into concrete action.
His response to the findings of Li et al., 2024, published in the International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, was featured in an article in The Hindu in the first week of August 2024.
Anand Pendharkar
Mr. Pendharkar co-organized a two-day conference titled “Women and Workers in Energy Transition: Just and Sustainable Futures for All” in collaboration with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) and the Sustainable Design Research Consortium. The event took place in Chennai on August 12-13, 2024.
On August 8, 2024, he also attended the "Accelerating Climate & Clean Air Action in Maharashtra" conference. During the event, he met Ms. Claudia Lopez, the former Mayor of Bogota, Colombia, who shared insights on the implementation of low-emission regions.
Rahul Palekar
At the Chennai Conference on August 13, 2024, Mr. Palekar shared his remarkable achievement of reducing the carbon emissions of a UK-based publishing house by 24%, equivalent to 630 metric tonnes of CO2e annually.
Senator Dr. PKC Bose
He met the Hon'ble Norwegian Ambassador during the Independence Day celebrations and discussed how Green Energy is transforming Europe, with wind turbines manufactured in India playing a key role. Bilateral relations are flourishing, with increasing trade opportunities between the two nations.
