General Awareness

ENVIRONMENT - March 2025

Mar 2025

Aug 15, 2026

IIT Guwahati develops two-stage microalgae CO₂ capture process

Researchers at IIT Guwahati have developed a two-stage microalgae-based process to enhance carbon dioxide capture and bioenergy production. In the first stage, microalgae cultivate under controlled light, temperature, and nutrient conditions to maximise CO₂ fixation. In the second stage, harvested biomass is converted into bioenergy and value-added products, supporting sustainable carbon management. The study, led by Professor Kaustubha Mohanty of the Department of Chemical Engineering, reports improved fixation efficiency and potential for integration with industrial emissions. Experts say the approach could complement existing carbon capture methods while generating renewable energy, potentially accelerating India's progress toward lower emissions and more sustainable energy systems.

Two-stage microalgae process improves CO₂ fixation efficiency.
Stage 1 focuses on controlled cultivation for maximum uptake.
Stage 2 converts biomass to bioenergy and value-added products.
Led by Prof. Kaustubha Mohanty, IIT Guwahati.

Aug 11, 2026

Plastic Waste Management project around Nalsarovar Sanctuary funded by JICA

The Gujarat Forest Department launched a ₹2.94 crore Plastic Waste Management Project around the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary in August 2026. The initiative is approved under the Project for Eco-Restoration in Gujarat with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). It aims to reduce plastic pollution by encouraging waste collection from surrounding villages and to protect Nalsarovar's sensitive wetland ecosystem. The project also seeks to support local livelihoods through recycling activities and community participation. Officials emphasise sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation as central to the effort, with potential benefits for eco-tourism and regional environmental resilience.

₹2.94 crore Plastic Waste Management Project around Nalsarovar
Supported by JICA under Gujarat Eco-Restoration scheme
Aims to reduce plastic pollution and protect wetlands
Encourages village-level waste collection and recycling
Emphasises community participation and eco-tourism potential

VOC Port becomes India’s first major port with Scope-2 emission-free status

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority at Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, became India's first major port to achieve Scope-2 emission-free status. The port increased its use of renewable energy, including solar and wind, and adopted energy-efficient practices across terminal operations and power supply contracts. Scope-2 emissions are indirect greenhouse gases from purchased electricity. The port's shift reduces its carbon footprint and aligns with national climate goals and green maritime initiatives. Authorities say ongoing investment in clean energy will help other ports reduce emissions and improve air quality in the region, supporting sustainable growth in India's coastal economy.

VOC Port achieves Scope-2 emission-free status
Increased use of solar and wind energy
Scope-2: indirect emissions from electricity purchases
First major Indian port to reach this status
Supports green maritime initiatives and coastal economy

Aug 04, 2026

Glaw Lake in Arunachal Pradesh Becomes India’s 101st Ramsar Site

Glaw Lake in Arunachal Pradesh became the first wetland from the state to receive Ramsar Site recognition in August 2026, joining India's 101st Ramsar site. The designation recognises the lake's ecologically significant wetlands and its role in biodiversity conservation. The Ramsar status places Glaw Lake among internationally important wetlands, highlighting India's ongoing conservation efforts and commitments under the Ramsar Convention. Local authorities plan to enhance habitat protection, monitoring, and eco-tourism, balancing development with habitat preservation. The recognition reflects expanding wetland networks in India and underscores the importance of waterbird habitats in the eastern Himalayan region. Experts welcomed the move as a model for managing other wetlands in the northeast.

Glaw Lake is India's 101st Ramsar site, designated in August 2026.
First Ramsar recognition for a wetland in Arunachal Pradesh.
Highlights biodiversity and habitat conservation efforts in the northeast.
Plan includes habitat protection, monitoring, and eco-tourism development.
Signifies India's expanding network of internationally important wetlands.

Aug 03, 2026

India ranks 176th on the 2026 Environmental Performance Index

India ranked 176th out of 177 countries in the 2026 Environmental Performance Index, scoring 22.46 on a composite measure of environmental performance. The EPI assesses 47 indicators across 12 issue areas, including air quality, water resources, biodiversity, climate policy, and waste management. Estonia led the rankings, while Laos finished last. India's score points to weak performance in several environmental domains, though policymakers note ongoing programs for emissions reduction, renewable energy expansion, and sustainable urban planning. Experts call for stronger data collection and credible reform implementation to improve future EPIs and align with global climate commitments.

India ranked 176th out of 177; score 22.46 on 2026 EPI.
EPI covers 47 indicators across 12 environmental areas.
Estonia topped the ranking; Laos at the bottom.
Need for better data, reforms, and stronger climate actions.

Jul 30, 2026

World Nature Conservation Day observed in 2026

World Nature Conservation Day is observed annually on 28 July to promote environmental protection and biodiversity. The 2026 observance featured various programmes to raise awareness and encourage sustainable practices. In Delhi, the National Zoological Park organized awareness activities, visitor outreach programmes, and a plastic-removal drive focused on wildlife conservation. The event highlighted the link between sustainable resource use and healthy ecosystems, urging individuals and institutions to adopt greener habits and conserve natural resources. The day serves as a reminder of India’s commitments to biodiversity and ecological balance as part of national development goals.

Observed on 28 July 2026.
Delhi’s National Zoological Park hosted activities.
Plastic-removal drive supported wildlife conservation.
Focus on biodiversity protection and sustainable practices.
Reinforces India’s environmental commitments.

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