Climate change stands as one of the paramount challenges humanity faces today, intricately intertwined with and exacerbating a multitude of other pressing issues, including poverty, hunger, water scarcity, and pollution. Addressing climate change demands concerted and enduring efforts from governments, organisations, and individuals alike.
At IISER Pune, we are spearheading a series of initiatives at both the organisational and individual levels. A dedicated committee on climate action and sustainability policy has been established, tasked with crafting a comprehensive Climate Action and Sustainability Policy for the Institute. This committee also serves to offer suggestions and recommendations on various sustainability-related aspects across campus, including the introduction of new courses and curriculum aimed at promoting environmental consciousness and stewardship.
Some of the ongoing and planned initiatives include
Green Infrastructure
At IISER Pune, green infrastructure plays a crucial role in our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Our campus is adorned with various green features that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to ecological conservation and resource efficiency.
Renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, are strategically deployed across the campus to reduce our carbon footprint and reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
Sustainable water management practices are integrated into our infrastructure design. This includes rainwater harvesting systems, and water-efficient irrigation methods to minimise water wastage and enhance groundwater recharge.
Education
Our curriculum remains dynamic, continuously evolving to meet the changing demands and interests of our students by introducing contemporary courses. We offer several courses related to climate change and sustainability aspect as part of our BS-MS and MSc programme.
Research
IISER Pune has faculty members whose research directly or indirectly has implications for a wide range sustainability related issues, from energy transition to ecosystem health. We also have one department (Earth and Climate Science) and two research centres (Centre for water research and Centre for energy science) focusing on these research themes. Some of our key research domains in this aspect are:
- Water
- Climate
- Biodiversity
- Energy
- Ecosystem
- Health
The IISER Pune community actively participates in social responsibility endeavors through student-led outreach activities centered on education and environmental awareness. With the support of faculty and administration, two vibrant clubs, DISHA and PRUTHA, spearhead initiatives that target both internal and external audiences on environmental, and cultural-social sustainability.
Read here the institute's Sustainability Report for the year 2023-24.
