Climate change is impacting the world. It is the poorest who suffer the most. Yet often rural Indians are leading the way in sustainable advances and trialling schemes that – if rolled out on a macro scale – can create real change in the environment.
Environment
Chuck the plastic with these cool alternatives
This World Earth Day, Village Square highlights five Indian brands creating stylish alternatives to plastics for the conscious consumer.
People’s movements to save the forests – a timeline
The Telangana government’s decision to auction off 400 acres of forested land in the heart of Hyderabad sparked massive public outrage recently. Here are a few other popular people’s movements that sought to fight for our forests.
Paper that doesn’t hurt any tree
On the International Day of Zero Waste, we look at Rescript, an enterprise that is bolstering the sustainability narrative with eco-friendly paper.
Nature’s wonder: Odisha welcomes Olive Ridley Turtles
In an annual ritual, Odisha gets ready to welcome its marine guests from the Pacific as thousands of Olive Ridley turtles descend on the shores of the Rushikulya estuary for their mass-nesting.
All stakeholders on board with whale shark conservation
Conservation actions are in place for whale sharks, a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act, in Kerala. Village Square looks at one project initiated in the state by the Wildlife Trust of India in 2017, and the perspectives of the fishing communities on such efforts.
Living with stripes – struggles in Ranthambore
Ranthambore, home to Bengal tigers, faces rising human-wildlife conflict. As tiger numbers grow, territorial pressures push them into nearby villages, creating life-threatening encounters for humans and wildlife.
Saving biodiversity, one click at a time
Abdul Qayoom Sofi, raised in Kashmir’s Kanispora Baramulla, developed a profound bond with nature from childhood. Now Block Forest Officer for Jhelum Valley, he dedicates his life to preserving Kashmir’s wildlife, driven by a deep love for the land. His mission is to protect the biodiversity that shaped him.
Faith in the long game of natural farming
Battling climate change and financial woes, a tribal farmer puts his faith in organic, natural farming methods – betting that enriching his soil will reap rewards in the long run.
Managing menstrual waste in the Andamans
With populations rising, changes in lifestyle, and increased tourism, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands face the challenge of managing waste, which can lead to serious health and ecological impacts. Let’s see how the village of Wandoor is keeping itself clean.