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.