Environment and Ecology

Environmental conservation and sustainability, respecting ecological integrity and limits

This section relates to initiatives that promote the principles of ecological integrity and limits. These are initiatives which envision models of decentralized conservation of land, water and biodiversity, based on a respect for both local and modern knowledge, and considering environment as an integral part of life and work. It also highlight attempts at linking livelihoods to ecological regeneration and restoration at local and landscape level. It will feature innovative attempts to deal with problems of pollution and waste. Overall, this section will try to work towards an understanding of the ecosystem which includes sociological, historical and geographical considerations while deciding on the path that local urban/ rural communities and the larger society take towards well-being.

Reviving Naulas, The Ancient Water Temples Of The Kumaon Himalayas

Naulas are fine examples of dry-masonry, stone architecture as well as the art and science of water purification

Bhimshankar village makes the most of nature’s trail

While promoting ecotourism, the villagers try to maintain a balance between conservation, livelihood and convenience

A Kerala Botanist’s Affair With an Unlikely 17th Century Book

Of all the plants of Malabar, what is it that “if applied on the left toe improves the clarity of vision in the right eye”?

A new Chipko in Odisha

"We, the women of Balarampur, are determined not to let anybody touch our trees" says Chaturi Sahu of Balarampur village, Dhenkanal

Kerala agriculture minister: Organic and natural farming will give farmers self reliance and climate resilience

To strengthen the ability of farmers to be self-reliant with traditional technologies and better seeds.

Camel milk is gaining popularity. Could it be an alternative for dairy market?

The dairy cooperatives in Gujarat collect 10,000 litres of camel milk per week from the Kachchh district.

Women forest guides pave new paths in Chhattisgarh

Being forest guides comes organically to the women as they have been born and bred in the same forest.

These Two Friends Started Goa’s First Zero-Waste Store To Beat Plastic Pollution At Its Root

How a zero-waste store can actually substitute conventional departmental stores.

Success Story — How they reduced packaging waste in Auroville, India

A Significant reduction in packaging waste for consumer products is possible with a little bit of effort and consumer awareness.