Voices for the Planet
From city trees to climate trends — our communications turn science into action for a greener tomorrow!
Through popular science books, how-to guides, and research reports on areas of public interest, such as tree planting guides; books on urban trees and water issues in cities; climate change and biodiversity; and annual high-level reports with near-future climate forecasts for climate adaptation planning.
Books, Booklets and Reports
- Published
- Authors
Abstract
This case study, documents the trials, tribulations and victories of a citizen’s movement to protect the environment — in this case the Chevella banyans. These banyans that are of ecological, historical and cultural importance were under threat of being axed for a road widening project. This case study can be used as a teaching resource in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, and by civil society organisations and citizens as a guiding document to understand how they can contribute to protecting the environment, the strategies they can apply and the challenges they might face.
Authors:
Rini Singhi, Seema Mundoli, Harini Nagendra
Links
- Published
- Authors
Abstract
In this book, Prema, a young girl living in Mumbai, learns about heatwaves and their devastating effects when her father falls seriously ill during an intense summer. Through her eyes, readers explore the human impact of rising temperatures and the urgent need for climate awareness.
Authors: Shrunoti Ritesh Tatiya, Santonu Goswami, Seema Mundoli, Harini Nagendra
Illustrations: Shrunoti Ritesh Tatiya
Links
-
Navigating India’s Climate Future
Climate projections for India (2021 – 2040)*
- Published
- Authors
Abstract
“We stay in an apartment, and there is very little space around. What trees can we plant?”
“I live in an independent house, and we would like to have trees. But we are worried the roots will damage our walls and underground sump.”
These are questions we have often been asked by residents of Bengaluru. What it tells us is that while there is an interest in planting trees, there are also concerns about what kind of trees are most suited owing to constraints of space and potential damage to infrastructure.
This guide is aimed at addressing some of these concerns. We have included 26 species of trees that can be grown in independent houses or apartment complexes in Bengaluru. We have included a basic description of each of the species, how to plant and care for the trees, the different kinds of uses and a fun fact or information nugget. The guide also contains information on installing root barriers to protect infrastructure from being damaged by tree roots. We have also included how diseased or damaged trees can be treated.
Links
- Published
- Authors
- Dhruthi Somesh
- Harini Nagendra
- Ranjini Murali
- Rohit Rao
- Seema Mundoli
Abstract
Bas saaru, Uppina saaru and massoppu are curries made of mixed greens, and are staples in the homes of Bengaluru residents. But these greens are not always bought in the market. They are also gathered from sidewalks, little strips of soil beside the road, drains, and around lakes. The act of gathering such edible plant species from private or public spaces in the city is called urban foraging, and it is a common practice across the globe.
In Bengaluru, it is mainly middle-aged or older women from low-income backgrounds who forage. These women are vital knowledge holders and experts on the local wild plants around them. They know what parts of the plants are used for food, medicine, or cultural uses, and which is the best season to forage. They also have delicious recipes, of curries, chutneys, and pickles that have been passed down through the generations.
Sadly, as the city has developed and urbanised, these foragers are losing access to the spaces where these greens were found.
Yet, so many people still forage for wild plants across the city. It is a dying art, one which needs to be repopularised.
Chasing Soppu is a guide to wild edible plants of Bengaluru. In this book, we provide an introduction to 53 forageable species in the city. For each, we provide a guide for identification. We also share a collection of local recipes, shared by women foragers we spoke to, which can be used to cook these plants. In addition, we share some home remedies as well.
Links
- Authors
- Climate Change and Sustainability
- School of Development
Abstract
India is rapidly urbanising, but our cities are facing an environmental crisis. Whenever there is any development, for building a road, a flyover or a metro, the first casualties are trees. This story is our attempt to communicate the work we have done on gunda thopes to a wider public, hoping to partner with them to protect the city’s environment.
Outreach for the commons
Engaging Young Minds with Wildlife and Conservation
As part of our collaboration with the Chhattisgarh Forest Department, we developed an interactive activity brochure for Nandanvan Zoo, designed to enhance visitor engagement through exploration and learning. This brochure encourages curiosity about biodiversity, ecosystems, and wildlife conservation.
Additionally, we have created a 10-set Activity-Based Learning Kit for students in Grades 5 – 10. This resource includes hands-on worksheets that can be used across different educational settings to strengthen understanding of the nature around us.
These initiatives aim to make learning about nature both fun and impactful, enabling a lasting connection between young minds and the environment.
Conversations of the commons and the climate
Our YouTube video series brings compelling stories of people, nature, and climate to the forefront.
Please watch, explore, and share. Feel free to use it in your classes and teaching and share your thoughts with us.
Let’s collectively spark conversations that lead to positive change.
Ecographies Series, wherein, we feature interesting biographies of people working or shaping the environment or ecological space.
Guardians of the Forest is a series dedicated to spotlighting the untold stories of those responsible for safeguarding our country’s precious natural resources. Through each interview, we capture their passion, dedication, and innovative efforts, showcasing their unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.
The People and Nature Series brings to the fore interesting stories on flora and fauna from across India and their interplay with humans.
Let’s Talk Climate Change series include thought-provoking discussions on climate change, sustainability, and the intricate tapestry that weaves together humanity and the environment.
Where Are the Jobs is an ongoing webinar series, where Harini Nagendra, Director of the School of Climate Change and Sustainability engages with climate and environment leaders from across India to explore their educational journeys, professional paths, and the diverse fields they work in.
#ConservationInTheMiddle is a series of five reflective videos, where four scientists Suri Venkatachalam, Rohan Arthur, M.D. Madhusudan and Harini Nagendra dive into the complex history and social dimensions of conservation. Is conservation just about saving nature, or is it a complex conversation about history, society, and even justice? We question traditional approaches like protected areas, especially in the seas, and explore how economic priorities shape our understanding of nature – even excluding indigenous knowledge. This thought-provoking episode uncovers surprising conflicts and sets the stage for discussions on different conservation narratives and exciting alternatives in future episodes.