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
Horseshoe crab – the living fossil on brink of extinction
It has been living for 450 million years and has survived five mass extinctions, but the horseshoe crab is now in danger because of overexploitation of marine resources by humans.
‘Waste dumping in open has increased human-wildlife conflict’
Surge in tourism in the Himalayas has led to enormous plastic waste generation, adversely affecting the region’s environment and wildlife. Vishal Kumar, CEO, Waste Warriors, discusses how this problem can be addressed.
Assam villagers dread wrath of ravaging river
Ahead of the monsoon, fear of displacement lurks amid villagers in Assam’s North Lakhimpur district as the Subansiri river threatens to devour their land and homes yet again.
Dry taps drive people to toxic groundwater in Bihar
The government provides clean piped water to every household, but villagers in Saharsa district complain that the supply is irregular and inadequate, forcing them to use groundwater laced with arsenic.
‘We have no clue about extent of damage to biodiversity’
Central India’s rich biodiversity has been massively affected by climate change, encroachment and poaching. Mandar Pingle of Satpuda Foundation tells us about the role that local communities play in restoration and conservation efforts.
Khejri – the wonder tree of Thar desert
The khejri tree is a lifeline for the desert ecosystem in Rajasthan as it provides food and shelter to many animals, besides being used by humans for its fruit and leaves.
The critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
Earlier present in the whole of western India, the GIB is now a critically endangered species with only about 100 birds remaining. They face threat to their habitat due to green energy, poaching, industrialisation and mining.
Elephants to buffaloes – species you didn’t think are endangered
Forests, rivers, oceans and our neighbourhood – creatures all around us are in danger of extinction. Here are a few names on the endangered list that may just about surprise you.
Mizoram’s Chite Lui River is crying for help
Chite Lui River is in danger as it turns into a dumping ground in Aizawl. Citizens’ efforts, lauded even by PM Modi, are making a difference but more is needed to save it from dying.