Bonn Climate Talks (SB60) Sets Stage for COP29
Its a mixed bag of progress.. Image Courtesy: Author The recent Bonn Climate Negotiations, officially known as the 60th sessions of the...
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Newsletter (March-April 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!
Teachers Training Program
Across Maharashtra
The Green Campus Program - Maharashtra team led by Mr. Ganesh Satav and Dr. Amruta Deshmukh conducted Teachers Training Program (TTP) at various campuses across Maharashtra in the academic year 2023-24.
TTP is one of the flagship programs of the TCPF. It aims to engage teachers and equip them with abilities to discuss climate change with students and create potential among them to inspire behavioural changes in students by helping them comprehend the causes and consequences of climate change.
63 schools and Higher Education Institution (HEI) campuses from Pune, Solapur, Ahmednagar, Sangli, Satara, Kolhapur and Ratnagiri districts attended TTP. In 57 campuses, TTP training sessions were conducted offline, visiting the campuses to facilitate in-person interaction with teachers, gain insight into the working environment, and build rapport for future interaction. In the remaining 06 campuses of HEIs, visits were conducted before the training to gain an idea of campuses and resources, followed by online training as per the availability of the faculty members.
As a result, 1149 teachers from schools and HEIs were trained under the Teachers Training Program. 90 students from HEIs also joined the training.
The participants were also educated about Climate Change and 5 thrust areas, and various activities in a comprehensive manner.
Climate Justice Dialogue: Youth Leaders Masked in Diplomacy
On April 27, 2024, our Bangladesh chapter hosted the MOC International dialogue: 'Climate Action: Power Talks with Global Leaders' at Bishaw Shahitto Kendro, Bangla Motor, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
With the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29) approaching in Baku, Azerbaijan, the spotlights are also on the vital role of youth leaders disguised as global figures in shaping climate action's future. In line with COP29 goals, SERAC- Bangladesh, in partnership with the Youth Coalition for Climate Justice (YCCJ) and The Climate Reality Project (India & South Asia), presented this MOC International dialogue, which was participated by 20 (of 85) selected participants.
This dialogue convened representatives (portraying heads of state and governments) from 11 nations, igniting a fervent exchange of ideas, strategies, and practical solutions to confront climate challenges. Chaired by SM Shaikat, SERAC's Executive Director and YCCJ's founder, and moderated by Tasnia Ahmed, YCCJ Coordinator, participants assumed global leaders' roles, transcending boundaries for collaborative efforts. Donning masks resembling presidents and prime ministers, these young delegates articulated ambitious visions and advocated for actionable measures to mitigate climate change's impacts through adaptive and concrete approaches.
As the world observes, these youth leaders stand poised to inspire, drive change, and lead the movement toward climate justice.
Faculty Development Program for
MIT-ADT University, Pune
As an extension of the Green Campus Program, TCPF organized an online Faculty Development Program targeting faculty, staff, and students of MIT-ADT University, Pune on 27th March 2024. The session, which accommodated 27 faculty members and 10 students, focused on Carbon Neutrality and the Green Campus Program.
Mr. Bhavesh Swami delivered insights on Carbon Neutrality, elucidating the significance considering the Paris Agreement. Dr. Amruta Deshmukh provided an introduction to the Green Campus Program for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), emphasizing the imperative for climate action. This initiative underscores the university's commitment to sustainability and equips its community with essential knowledge to contribute to environmental stewardship.
GCP Committee Meeting (Online) with
Vikas College, Maharashtra
An online GCP committee meeting was conducted with the core committee members of GCP from Vikas College on 4th March 2024. Dr. Sakshi Grover gave the GCP presentation on behalf of the Climate Reality Project India & South Asia.
The meeting was led by Dr. Sakshi Grover, who addressed the need of “Green Campus Program” for Higher Education Institutions, how it would benefit the college community and the students. The aim of the GCP is to protect and conserve ecological systems and resources within the campus. The session was followed by Q&A session.
Workshop at Little Flower Public School
On 20th March 2024, TCPF conducted a workshop for the teachers at the Little Flower Public School, Shahdara, Delhi. The workshop aimed at guiding teachers to start sustainability education in their schools. They were guided to select any of the themes from Water, Biodiversity and Waste to assume action research with a group of children. Resource booklets, activity worksheets and games were shared with teachers to help them conduct activities.
The training focused on providing conceptual understanding of the measures which can be adopted for efficiency of water-use and conservation at various scales of planning (city, neighbourhood, and individual scale) in urban areas and at school or individual level. Teachers learned how to conduct good waste management in our schools through a practical training.
Teachers’ Workshop on
Water Conservation at Modern School
On 15th March 2024, Ms Rekha Lalla took the workshop at the Modern School Sector-17, Faridabad where 38 teachers participated in a half day program. Water Management was discussed, and teachers presented their solutions to the Environmental problems in innovative ways-Poems, drawings, and debates. The teachers were actively engaged, emphasizing the importance of water conservation and the adoption of sustainable water management practices.
The workshop highlighted simple yet effective methods of water conservation, stressing the significance of rainwater harvesting and traditional water conservation techniques. Participants were encouraged to utilize water consciously, with the suggestion of imposing penalty for wasteful usage. The initiative garnered public support, with individuals pledging to responsibly manage water resources and advocate for conservation efforts.
Online Meeting with 16 branches of
St. Columba’s Schools, Delhi
A PPT presentation on Green Campus Program was showcased by Ms Rekha Lalla for 16 branches of St Columba’s School on 21st March 2024. Around 36 teachers from all the branches joined the session.
The Teachers from different states of India appreciated the Green Campus Program and expressed interest in joining the GCP. Further, Ms Rekha Lalla was invited for the base camp, where all the branches can physically meet and ask any doubts they have about the program.
Orientation Program on “Climate Emergency: Youth Action” with GMN College
A one-day orientation program was organized for GMN College, Ambala Cantt. on 14th March 2024, which aimed at educating students and faculty members about climate change and youth involvement. Mr. Bhavesh Swami discussed climate crisis, global warming, and sustainable solutions like solar-powered bicycles, efficient cookstoves, and eco-tourism.
Students showed keen interest and enthusiasm, participating actively in the interactive session and Q&A.
The session fostered awareness and inspired action towards a sustainable future among the attendees.
International Youth and Sustainability Festival 2024
ExploreiT and The Climate Project Foundation collaborated to organize a two-day The International Youth and Sustainability Festival 2024 edition on 8th-9th March 2024, targeting students, aiming to educate them on sustainability. Expert lectures were conducted on the Water crisis and women's rights, Emerging legal frameworks related to CSR, Biodiversity, Urban Planning, ESG, Green jobs, DIY projects (creating Bio enzymes, growing your microgreens), Responsible consumption and production, Wastewater, etc. The festival also featured a Green Solutions challenge for service-learning students to present their projects. Alongside sessions and exhibitions, eco-friendly products were sold, and a garage sale was also held.
Mr. Bhavesh Swami led sessions on “Urban Mobility and Its Solutions” along with two other dignitaries, Mr. Kumar Mohanty and Mr. Mangesh Dighe. He also led a session on green jobs, highlighting job opportunities in emerging sectors. Ms. Neeta Ganguly, National Coordinator – Waste Management, TCPF, conducted a hands-on session on making bio enzymes, emphasizing their importance in avoiding chemicals.
Climate Reality Leader Mr. Sathya Natrajan, National Coordinator – Urban Spaces, TCPF conducted a session namely “Certificate course on ESG for corporates” along with Dr. Abhinav Shrivastava from Symbiosis Law School.
Mr. Rituraj Phukan, National Coordinator – Biodiversity, TCPF along with Mr. Jadav Payang conducted a session on “Responsible Leadership and Indigenous Rights,” Indigenous People’s Justice forum. Focusing on reducing inequality covered in SDG 1.
World Water Day
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Water For a Sustainable Future
On March 20, 2024, The Climate Project Foundation marked World Water Day on LinkedIn, in collaboration with APD Academy, ECPFO, Gurujal, and Manav Rachna Centre for Advanced Water Technology & Management (MRCAWTM), under the theme "Water For A Sustainable Future."
Discussions revolved around water resource conservation solutions.
Mr. Bhavesh Swami opened the event, delving into "India as a Groundwater Civilization," highlighting India's historical reliance on groundwater for sustenance, agriculture, and daily needs.
Dr. Arunangshu Mukherjee, Director, Manav Rachna CAWTM stressed the importance of water literacy, stating water's significance in health, science, and employment.
Ms. Shubhi Kesarwani Founder, Gurujal, ESG Expert highlighted the concept of virtual water and the importance of managing distorted water bodies, such as in rural areas around Badkal Lake. She advocated for greywater management, preventing rainwater from draining away, and how to utilize 80% of water used in agriculture that remains untapped and stressed the significance of restoring water bodies.
Mr. Kailash Chaudhary, Director, ECPFO introduced the importance of Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) as vital for water security and a climate action measure for a sustainable future. Approximately 50 attendees attended the event.
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Water for Peace
This year, World Water Day was observed on March 22, themed "Water for Peace." TCPF partnered with ‘Development Alternatives’ for a round table discussion involving water sector professionals from fifteen organizations. The event continued with a trialogue 2047 (panel discussion) and concluded with a musical 'Water & Culture' in the evening, attracting over 150 attendees.
The roundtable began with a keynote by Mr. Ashish Tiwari, Secretary, DOEFCC, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, stressing the efficient utilization of water harvesting
resources. Ms. Fawzia Tarannum, National Coordinator – Water, TCPF and Ms. Swayam Prabha Das, National Coordinator – Marine Ecosystems, TCPF, moderated the session, gathering inputs from attendees.
The roundtable convened experts, students, policymakers, and practitioners committed to water resource protection, conservation, and restoration. The event stimulated informed discussions and collective action, highlighting water's pivotal role in peacebuilding, and advocating shared responsibility for its preservation.
Teachers’ Training Program by
GCP Team in Kashmir
The Teachers’ Training Program (TTP) was organized in Salsabeel Education Institute, Ganderbal, and Islamia Hanfia School, Anantnag on 26th and 27th April 2024. TTP commenced with an informative presentation at Salsabeel Education Institute, Ganderbal.
At Salsabeel Education Institute, Ms. Humera Gulzar led the first session, focusing on Kashmir's biodiversity. She underscored its importance and shared strategies for enhancing biodiversity on educational campuses. Following this, Ms. Aamina Farooq discussed air pollution and measures to improve the Air Quality Index (AQI). She outlined the adverse effects of air pollution and presented effective solutions to address this issue.
At Islamia Hanfia School, Anantnag, Mr. Aadil provided an overview of the Green Campus Program, emphasizing the importance of creating a sustainable and eco-friendly campus environment in the Kashmir valley. He highlighted the crucial role of the Green Campus Committee in implementing plans effectively. Mr. Aadil stressed the importance of successfully executing outlined strategies to earn recognition and awards for the school's contributions to environmental protection.
Workshops on Air Quality in
Schools of Srinagar & Khrew
GCP Team in Kashmir conducted a workshop on Air Quality at Khalsa Higher Secondary School, Srinagar. The session covered factors causing air pollution and its impact on health, especially among students and teachers.
The team discussed main pollution sources like vehicles and factories. Additionally, we explored how educational institutions can mitigate air pollution in Srinagar by implementing waste management, promoting green transportation, and raising awareness among students and staff. The workshop facilitated brainstorming of ideas and strategies to foster sustainable practices within the school premises, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship in Srinagar.
Similarly, another workshop on Air Quality was organized at the Government Boys Higher Secondary School (GBHSS), Khrew, Pulwama distt., J&K, by Ms. Aamina Farooq. Its primary goal was to educate students and teachers about the detrimental effects of air pollution, especially from particulate matter, and stress the importance of proactive measures to address it.
The workshop employed interactive sessions, visual aids, and hands-on activities to explain the sources of particulate matter and demonstrate actionable steps for mitigation. Discussions also centered on sustainable practices, highlighting the shared responsibility of individuals in promoting a clean and healthy environment.
Workshops on Green Campus Program in Schools of Srinagar
At Green Valley Educational Institute, Ellahi Bagh, Srinagar, and the Govt. Girls Higher Secondary School Amira Kadal, Srinagar, a workshop introducing the Green Campus Program was conducted, which was led by project head Aadil Bhat. 80+ teachers participated in the workshops, discussing the significance of eco-friendly practices in educational institutions.
The workshop introduced the Green Campus Program, highlighting its role in promoting environmental awareness and creating healthier learning environments for students. An interactive session addressed queries and encouraged teacher participation.
Earth Day Webinar-2024
On the eve of Earth Day 2024, The Climate Project Foundation organized a webinar on the theme, “Planet vs. Plastics” in partnership with the Earth Day Network, Jane Goodall Institute, India and the Chitkara University, Centre of Education.
The webinar was organized to engage with the students & faculties of GCP registered HEIs & experts from different organisations for Climate Action. The panellists shared some insightful angles while striking the chord of urgency and need for actions.
Mr. Aditya Pundir, Director-TCPF, stressed the urgency of tackling plastic pollution and highlighted TCPF's Green Campus Program's success in promoting sustainable practices and inculcating sustainable behaviour among the communities, since several schools, colleges & villages have become plastic free under this program.
Ms. Karuna Singh, Regional Director Asia-Earth Day Network shared the historic evolution of Earth Day, how it has grown as a movement of collective change across the globe. She also emphasized engaging the Global South in climate action.
Ms. Shweta Khare Naik, Executive Director-Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), India, addressed the harmful effects of plastics on marine ecosystems and advocated for improved waste management and eco-friendly alternatives to plastic fishing gear to safeguard marine ecosystems. Ms. Aruna Chowbay N, COO-APChemi, highlighted the health impacts of microplastics and promoted sustainable practices to combat single-use plastics. Dr. Charu Khosla, Director-Office of International Affairs, Chitkara University, advocated for industry-academia collaboration to address climate change.
This insightful webinar was attended by 720 participants.
Click here to watch the complete session.
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Joining Hands with IYCN
The Climate Project Foundation (TCPF) collaborates with Indian Youth Climate Network (IYCN) to catalyse youth-led programs and climate action initiatives. Both organisations recognize the critical role that young people play in shaping sustainable future.
The objectives are to equip youth with knowledge, skills, and practical experience related to climate action, youth-led events, and policy formulation; and to foster a network of informed and engaged young leaders who can advocate for climate resilience and sustainable development.
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Online Faculty Development Program at AISSMS College of Engineering, Pune
As a part of the Green Campus Program, an online Faculty Development Program was conducted for the faculty members and students of the AISSMS College of Engineering, Pune on 22nd April 2024. The engineering college had requested a session on Carbon Neutrality along with the Green Campus Program session, where 94 participants attended the session.
Dr. Bormane, Principal of AISSMS COE inaugurated the session and talked about current environmental activities, best practices, and the green club in the college.
Dr. Amruta Deshmukh started with the first session on Climate change & Carbon Neutrality. She also discussed various large solar power plants in India and a few innovation fabrications in the agriculture sector for employing solar energy. She also touched upon carbon offsetting and carbon sinks involving emission reduction and emission compensation.
Dr. Sakshi Grover gave an overview of the Green Campus Program for HEIs and introduced the need for climate action. She explained the objectives of GCP which aligns with Mission LiFE, UGC circulars & NAAC norms.
Principals’ Conclave at STS School, AMU
The Climate Project Foundation organized the Principals' Conclave on "Climate Change and Sustainability Education for a Safer Planet" hosted by the STS School at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) on April 16. The conclave brought together educational leaders, teachers, and experts to deliberate on the crucial role of education in addressing environmental challenges.
Prof. Asfar Ali Khan, Director of the Directorate of School Education, AMU, and Prof. Mohd Rihan, from the Department of Electricity, set a collaborative tone for the discussions. Mr. Aditya Pundir, Director - The Climate Reality Project India and South Asia, delivered a comprehensive presentation on climate change and sustainability education, stressing the urgency of educating students on these pressing issues. Mr. Faisal Nafis Principal, STS School emphasized the role of institutions. He stressed upon the importance of collective action in combating climate change.
The Conclave was attended by 10 Principals and 34 Heads & Teachers of schools under AMU.
Skillshare Session between Gyan Anant Vidyalaya, UP & St. Mary’s School, Delhi
On April 6, 2024, four educators from the Gyan Anant Vidyalaya, Pilkhuwa, UP visited St. Mary School, Dwarka, New Delhi to evaluate the school's sustainability policy. The school's dedication to sustainability, demonstrated by several projects were commendable and highly appreciated by the educator from the Gyan Anant Vidyalaya.
The St. Mary’s School has a little forest, which is home to 1600+ native flora. The school has implemented an innovative method by utilizing tetra packs loaded with sawdust and neem leaves to create a soundproof chamber. The air quality index at the school is regularly checked and recorded. The school has put sensible conservation measures in place for its water resources. These are some of the green measures undertaken by the school.
The school also encourages children to be inventive and environmentally conscious with its focus on academic rigour and a caring community, the school sets a high standard for educational institutions.
Skillshare Session between
Tagore International School, Delhi
& Mothers Public School, Odisha
On April 15, 2024, Tagore International School in Delhi hosted a 2-day Skillshare Session for Mother's Public School, Odisha. Ms. Asha T. R, Vice Principal, and Ms. Santoshi Mohapatra, Vice Principal, from Mother's Public School, Bhubaneswar, visited as part of the Skill Share Teacher Exchange Program. They received insights into our sustainable practices and green initiatives, toured our eco-friendly infrastructure, and observed our student-centric learning approach.
The visit promoted collaboration and knowledge exchange between institutions from Odisha and Delhi. On Day 2, our guests explored our school culture, witnessing our vibrant assembly and emphasis on self-expression through performing arts, showcasing our school community and cultural heritage.
Teachers Training Program for
AGS College of Education
Online Teachers’ Training Program was conducted for the faculty members of AGS College of Education, Mumbai as a part of The Green Campus Program.
Dr. Amruta Deshmukh, from TCPF discussed the science behind climate change, impacts caused by it on various aspects and solutions in detail along with the solutions for climate action, which can be taken on individual level or at campus itself.
Dr. Sakshi Grover addressed the need of the Green Campus Program for Higher Education Institutions and its alignment with UGC, NAAC and Mission LiFE norms to them & how GCP shares the common goal with them. She also asked them to design their own Green Policy.
Meet & Greet for
Climate Reality Leaders in Nepal
On 28th April 2024, a Climate Reality Leaders' Meet and Greet Session convened in Kathmandu, Nepal, featuring discussions on impactful initiatives and stressing cross-sector collaboration for comprehensive climate change solutions.
The objective was to gather trained Climate Reality Leaders from diverse backgrounds to address the climate crisis, focusing on South Asia's climate issues and ongoing adaptation programs, notably the "Green Campus Programme."
Mr. Aditya Pundir, Director - The Climate Reality Project India and South Asia, visited Nepal. He highlighted the agenda items, emphasizing their strategic importance. From the Green Campus Program to youth engagement in COP negotiations.
Phurpa Lama, Country Coordinator- Nepal, invited all the Climate Reality Leaders from Nepal, and to share their expertise and emphasized drafting an action plan, underscoring the urgency of the climate crisis and mitigating it through collective action.
The Meet & Greet session was attended by Pradeep Bhattarai, Ugan Manandhar, Surya Ghimire, Oyasis Adhikari, Alok Pokharel, Sushila Regmi Adhikari and Prajun Chapagain.
It was an enriching experience as the talks oscillated between impactful programs like Green Campus Programme to COP negotiations, youth mobilization, waste management, green infrastructure, sustainability plan, green finance and more.
Acts of Leadership by
Climate Reality Leaders
Col. (RETD.) Shashikant Dalvi
Col. (RETD.) Shashikant Dalvi’s article on MIDC Policy on Groundwater Recharge: Grave Concern got featured in Ground Report India ISSN 1839-6232. He emphasised on groundwater recharge policy for industrial water consumption. Read the article here:
Elsie Gabriel
Elsie Gabriel¸ National Coordinator – Ocean Conservation, TCPF met Ramesh Bais, Governor of Mumbai for launching our Ocean Literacy Program with policymakers for ocean and climate education/conservation.
Globally, ocean health has become critically compromised due to compounding negative impacts. Working towards strengthening government cooperation, policy coherence and coordination among stakeholders at all levels is key. She also emphasized on gender equality placed at the heart of conservation, which was very essential for the right motivation for the next generations.
Shivam Singh
ExploreIT, co-founded by Shivam Singh, National Coordinator – Youth Engagement, TCPF organised an International Youth Sustainability Festival with other partners like TCPF, symbiosis Group, Pune, Adar Poonawalla, AM/NS India, Janvani, Climate Troopers etc. from 8-9th March, 2024 at Pune.
He invited several renowned guest speakers like Dr. Erach Bharucha, Jadhav Payeng, including National Coordinators from Climate Reality including Nita Ganguly, Rituraj Phukan, Mr. Siddhartha, Mr. Bhavesh Swami. They all took separate sessions on Climate change, E- mobility, ESG, Clean Energy, Forest & Biodiversity, Smart City/ Urban Planning etc.
Senator Dr. PKC Bose
Senator Dr. PKC Bose addressed the Norwegian parliament in the august presence of Indian Ambassador Dr. Acquino Vimal and over 150 invited distinguished guests from different walks of life. He talked about India’s stand for Green Energy Transition to set an example to the world.
Vivek Trivedi
Vivek Trivedi, National Coordinator - Climate Disaster and Livelihood, TCPF organized a plantation drive on 21st April 2024 in Chandigarh, to commemorate Earth Day-2024, wherein 200 saplings were planted. The drive was co-organised by APSWDP with Serve Humanity Serve God & The Climate Project Foundation.
Rituraj Phukan
Rituraj Phukan, National Coordinator – Biodiversity, TCPF was Invited by THE Free Press Journal for an interview with Afrida Rahman Ali on “Dubai flooding: Time to brace for climate change horrors?”
Anand Pendharkar
Anand Pendharkar was invited by the Visva Bharati University, Santiniketan for a session on the “Role of Youth in Conservation and Climate Action.”
Dr. Nandini Deshmukh
Dr. Nandini Deshmukh was invited by the Maha MTB for an interview on Earth Day-2024, She discussed the challenges, problems & solutions facing the Earth & how we can save our planet together with adopting eco-friendly habits.
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