Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Minister of State for Education and Development of the North East Region, on Monday launched the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay’s (IIT-B) comprehensive sustainability policy, marking a significant step in the institute’s journey towards becoming a Net Zero Campus. The initiative focuses on environmental education, conservation, governance, and innovative sustainable practices, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
The launch also included the unveiling of the Pan-IIT Sustainability Conclave report and the first newsletter of IIT-B’s Research Hub for Green Energy and Sustainability (GESH), reflecting the institute’s commitment to fostering a greener and more sustainable future.
IIT-B’s sustainability policy highlights a robust framework for environmental stewardship, incorporating campus sustainability assessments based on the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS). It prioritises the implementation and innovation of sustainable practices, with a focus on reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and the carbon footprint of campus events. A gamified app is also being introduced to engage students in sustainability efforts in order to achieve a Net Zero status.
During the event, Prof. Anurag Garg, Associate Dean III (Infrastructure Planning and Support), presented IIT-B’s campus sustainability plan, while Prof. Sanjay Mahajani, Professor-In-Charge of GESH, detailed the Research Hub’s initiatives for sustainable development. Commending the Institute’s efforts, Majumdar said, “The excellent research and innovation activities of IIT Bombay will help in achieving the dream of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).” He further urged the Institute to engage with young students to foster a culture of research and innovation.
Majumdar also participated in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign by planting a sapling at the institute’s campus. The visit concluded with tours of the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, the Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE), and the IIT Bombay Research Park.
