Sustainable Agriculture
The global population is expected to reach 10 billion by 2050, raising concerns about feeding these increasing numbers without further degrading the environment. Our work focuses on bringing sustainability in agricultural practices by developing plant and microbe derived products that reduce the use of chemical fertilisers while substantially improving crop yields. We are making strides in using nano biotechnology to develop a range of green products including nano-fertilisers, superfoods and algal based bioenergy. We demonstrate change by helping farming communities improve their livelihood through our products and practices.
Climate Change
In the post-Paris agreement era, accelerating climate action is the biggest hope to ensure a safe future for all. In India, our work focuses on climate modelling to develop a better understanding of climate variability at regional scales. We study the risks and vulnerabilities of key sectors such as water, health, agriculture and industry. Our work in climate science is inextricably linked to policy research and recommendations for the Indian government to shape its domestic policies, as well as contribute to its position in global negotiations. Through a number of initiatives, we are beginning to extend our knowledge and research in climate science and policy to other emerging economies.
Energy
A transition to clean energy lies at the heart of India realizing its long-term net-zero commitments. We aid this commitment by promoting, on both demand and supply sides, energy efficient and renewable energy-based technological solutions that will enable India achieve its developmental goals along low-carbon pathways. Foundations of our work are embedded in the key areas of Industrial Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy Technologies, Electricity and Fuels, and Energy Assessment & Modelling. Our assiduous researches are primarily focused on developing and facilitating the adoption of clean energy technologies, integration of renewables in the grid, and promoting energy efficiency in industries and public utilities. Role of new-age technological solutions like green hydrogen and biofuels in various sectors is critical in the context of net-zero goals and energy security of the Indian economy and hence forms one of our prime areas of work
Environment
India's remarkable economic growth in the post liberalisation era has brought benefits to millions of people, but this growth continues to be clouded by severe environmental problems. Our work focuses on creating and promoting a range of products, solutions and policies that reduce the adverse impacts on environment. We have developed innovative solutions for cleaning our air, promoting water use efficiency across sectors and conserving our forests, while enhancing the livelihood of forest dependent communities. We work towards solutions that reduce the generation of waste and promote its reuse and recycle to build a circular economy. Our enduring work with friendly microbes has treated vast acres of polluted land, and water and restored soil and plant health.
Sustainable Habitat
The speed of rapid urbanization poses unprecedented challenges and opportunities for India. We promote sustainability in the urban context through developing a wide range of solutions for green buildings, sustainable mobility and planning and governance of low-carbon, resilient cities.
Health & Nutrition
Environmental degradation accounts for a large part of India’s disease burden. Our work focuses on establishing and assessing the linkages between environment and public health, particularly the health risks arising from growing pollutants in air, food and water. At the grassroots, we have demonstrated practical and sustainable approaches to overcoming malnutrition in tribal communities by enabling them to grow and consume locally available bioresources.
Resources and Sustainable Development
Unsustainable consumption of resources is at the heart of the crisis of environmental degradation. Our work focuses on understanding the future demand for resources and promoting pathways for resource efficiency, waste management and circular economy. Our integrated modelling and analysis has contributed to shaping and influencing India’s policies on energy, environment and climate change. All our efforts continue to inform policy makers about solutions which need to be scaled up to decouple economic growth from environmental impacts.