TERI Year Ender 2023

MILESTONE EVENTS @TERI

WSDS 2023: Mainstreaming Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience for Collective Action

The 22nd edition of the World Sustainable Development Summit brought together leading representatives from international organizations, government, business and industry, research and academia, civil society, and youth to deliberate on the modus operandi required for ‘Mainstreaming Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience for Collective Action’.

In his message at the inaugural session of the WSDS 2023, Hon’ble Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi underscored how environment conservation is a commitment and not a compulsion for India.

Held at the India Habitat Centre, the Summit saw delegates deliberate upon several key issues as well as thematic areas centered around this year’s theme.

“The vision of correcting ecological wrong into ecological harmony is taking shape and is being reflected in the grassroots,” said Mr Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, at the WSDS inaugural session. In the same session, Dr Sultan Al Jaber, the COP28 President Designate, asserted, “The goal of keeping 1.5 degree Celsius alive is just non-negotiable.”

TERI Organizes Second Edition of Water Sustainability Awards

TERI, in association with the Ministry of Jal Shakti, UNDP India, and the International Water Association, organized the second edition of the Water Sustainability Awards at Silver Oak, India Habitat Centre on the eve of World Water Day, March 21, 2023, to recognize stakeholders’ efforts towards achieving sustainability in water-use and management.

TERI Hosts the 22nd Darbari Seth Memorial Lecture

Remembering its visionary founder Mr Darbari Seth and his pathbreaking contribution in energy security and sustainable development, TERI hosted the 22nd edition of the annual Darbari Seth Memorial Lecture.

Shri RK Singh, Union Minister of Power, and New & Renewable Energy, Government of India delivered the Presidential Lecture and Mr Siddharth Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Trusts delivered the 22nd Darbari Seth Memorial Lecture at the event.

TERI @ GLOBAL FORUMS

TERI@G20

India assumed the G20 Presidency from Indonesia in December 2022. As a key intergovernmental forum that aims to seamlessly bring together 20 of the world’s developed as well as developing economies, the G20 plays a critical part in global economic governance. Over time, its ambit has expanded to include climate change, sustainable development, energy, trade, health, and agriculture.

TERI engaged with multiple working groups across the three workstreams, including the G20 Sherpa Track, and G20 Engagement Groups, particularly Think20. The Institute was also part of several policy briefs.

TERI@COP28

The much anticipated 28th edition of the Conference of the Parties (COP) kickstarted on November 30 in Dubai, UAE. TERI made its presence felt at the climate conference with a 20-member delegation headed by Director General Dr Vibha Dhawan.

Circular Economy: The Path to a Sustainable Lifestyle

TERI along with the Department of Commerce, Government of India, and Invest India, organized a fireside chat at the World Economic Forum on 'Circular Economy: The Path to a Sustainable Lifestyle' which saw the participation of Ms Smriti Irani, Union Minister, Women and Child Development and Minority Affairs, Mr Parameswaran Iyer, CEO, NITI Aayog along with Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, and policymakers and leaders of global businesses to discuss sustainable lifestyles.

TERI Organizes Technology & Cultural Showcase

With the support from CALSTRAT and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation as knowledge partner, TERI organized 'Technology & Cultural Showcase' which demonstrated the remarkable advancements made in the field of ‘Zero Emission Vehicles’ and their potential to accelerate decarbonization of India's transport sector.

Dr Dhawan Meets Japan's Prime Minister

(L to R): Mr Peter Bakker, President & CEO, WBCSD, Mr Jon Moore, CEO, Bloomberg NEF, Mr Yasutoshi Nishimura, Minister of Economy, Trade & Industry, Govt of Japan, Mr Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister, Govt of Japan, Mr Hoesung Lee, Chair, IPCC, Dr Vibha Dhawan, DG, TERI, Mr David Atkin, CEO, PRI

TERI Director General Dr Vibha Dhawan participated in the Hydrogen Gigaton International workshop in Tokyo and the 5th RD20 (Research and Development 20) international conference held in Koriyama, Japan, from October 2-6, 2023.

Apart from getting insights on recent research/commercialisation possibilities from Hydrogen (discussed during the Hydrogen Gigaton International workshop and conference of G20 countries in clean energy space), Dr Dhawan met Japan's Prime Minister, Mr Fumio Kishida.

TERI's Contribution Appreciated by Guyana Government

TERI Director General Dr Dhawan visited Guyana to attend the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo 2023 on October 20 and met with the officials of the government.

During the forum, she engaged in an extensive discussion with Guyana’s Hon. President Dr Irfaan Ali, Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, Hon. Prime Minister, Mr Mark Phillips, and Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh.

50 YEARS OF TERI

TERI Rings in 50th Year Celebrations

As TERI entered its 50th year, it organized an event celebrating its legacy, the phenomenal contributions of its founders, and the unwavering passion for excellence of its colleagues in driving climate action and sustainable development.

TERI Organized Panel Discussion on “The Visionary's Guide to the Future Framework”

On Teachers Day, TERI organized a panel discussion on the theme of “The Visionary's Guide to the Future Framework” to honour and recognize the invaluable contribution of the Distinguished Fellows to the growth and success of the organization.

Through the Bioscope of Time: 50 Years of Shaping Tomorrow

Leading India's development journey for the past five decades by providing transformational solutions through policy research, technological innovation, and advocacy, TERI has been at the forefront of understanding the ecological impact of climate change to drive sustainable development.

Championing excellence in scientific and policy research and pushing for stronger cooperation between government and businesses, we eagerly anticipate the next 50 years of our mission, ever aligned with our founding values.

TERI’s E-Learning Platform Launched

As TERI celebrates its 50th anniversary, we take immense pride in unveiling this remarkable initiative, a testament to our unwavering commitment to research, knowledge, and growth.

India Empire – Champion of Sustainability

Leading India's development journey for the past five decades by providing transformational solutions through policy research, technological innovation, and advocacy, TERI has been at the centre stage of understanding the ecological impact of climate change to drive sustainable development.

Championing excellence in scientific and policy research and pushing for stronger cooperation between government and businesses, we eagerly anticipate the next 50 years of our mission, ever aligned with our founding values.

DIGNITARIES @ TERI

National Centre of Excellence in Green Port and Shipping Inaugurated at TERI Gram

The country’s first National Centre of Excellence in Green Port and Shipping (NCoEGPS), a collaboration between the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) and TERI, was inaugurated by Union Minister Mr Sarbananda Sonowal at TERI’s Gwal Pahari campus on March 22, 2023. The NCoEGPS will act as a technological arm of the MoPSW and engage with the policy and research aspects related to green shipping and work on areas of energy and emission management and sustainable maritime operations.

TERI Concludes 75 Reels for Celebrating India Journey

TERI concluded the 75 Reels for Celebrating India, a programme conceptualized to honour 75 years of India's independence as well as the illustrious history of its people, culture, and accomplishments. The reel-making competition along with hosting a ‘National Youth Forum’, was implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, under the umbrella of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Ms Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture of India, was the chief guest.

TERI Organizes Generation Green: Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for Youth, by Youth

TERI in collaboration with Centre for Responsible Business, EU-REI and GIZ organized an interactive session on ‘Generation Green: Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for Youth, by Youth’ with H.E. Mr Virginijus Sinkeviius, Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, European Union.

TERI REPORTS/STUDIES/INITIATIVES

An Assessment of Avoided CO₂ Emissions During Construction, Maintenance, and Operation of National Highways

TERI, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Indian Institute of Petroleum and IORA Ecological Solutions launched a report on ‘An Assessment of Avoided CO₂ Emissions during Construction Maintenance and Operation of National Highways’ which focuses on the detailed guidance of estimating tonnes of CO₂ avoided per km of National Highways that can then help form the basis for tracking CO₂ emitted or avoided due to these activities.

Emissions Reduction and Beyond: A Capgemini-TERI Concept Note

TERI along with Capegemini launched a joint concept note titled ‘Emissions Reductions and Beyond’ at the World Sustainable Development Summit which showcases the combined perspectives of the two organizations on the climate change crisis, the need for systemic overhauls, industry preparedness, and their institutional offerings to help the industry overcome associated challenges in hope of a sustainable future.

‘Air to Water’ Technology - Offering Potential to Achieve Water for All

On World Water Day, TERI launched a policy brief on ‘Air to Water Technology- Offering the Potential to Achieve Water for All’ which deliberates on the access to safe and affordable drinking water which remains a big challenge for the country’s growing population.

Harnessing the Potential of Bio-Resources to Produce Low Carbon Bio-Hydrogen

TERI and Capgemini jointly launched a whitepaper on- 'Harnessing the Potential of Bio-Resources to Produce Low Carbon Bio-Hydrogen' to provide a detailed landscape of the varied bio-processes available for hydrogen production. The whitepaper expands on the opportunities and challenges associated with the different bio-processes and advocates for the incorporation of modern technological solutions to make large-scale hydrogen production commercially viable.

Puducherry Green Budget Report 2023-24

A report titled 'Puducherry Green Budget Report’ jointly prepared by TERI and the Government of Puducherry was released by the Government of Puducherry at Kamban Kalaiyarangam on World Environment Day in the presence of Mr N Rangaswamy, Chief Minister, Puducherry.

Operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund: Challenges and Opportunities

At the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the participating states agreed on the broad modalities for the establishment of a historic Loss and Damage Fund. Furthermore, COP27 set up a transnational committee to ‘make recommendations for consideration and adoption by COP28’ for the loss and damage fund, making the particulars and modalities of the fund a key topic for COP28.

India Transforming to a Net-Zero Emissions Energy System: A Call to Action to 2030

TERI along with the Shell Group of Companies (India) launched the ‘India transforming to a net-zero emissions energy system: A Call to Action to 2030’. Examining a set of decarbonisation pathways, the report identifies a series of requisite actions to decarbonize the Indian economy. It also outlines key policies and investment actions required to enable India’s energy transition whilst simultaneously balancing the imperative of just transition and securing the country’s energy needs.

An Economy-Wide Quantified Goal on Energy Efficiency in India

TERI's new policy brief 'An Economy-Wide Quantified Goal on Energy Efficiency in India' advocates for a policy approach to set and achieve economy-wide energy efficiency targets.

Act4Earth Policy Briefs

RECOGNITION/COLLABORATION

Dr Vibha Dhawan Felicitated with Social Impact Leadership Award

Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI was felicitated with the ‘Social Impact Leadership Award of the Year’ in the fields of Social, CSR and Philanthropy at the 5th ICC Social Impact Summit and Awards, a flagship event of Indian Chambers of Commerce on March 16, 2023, in Kolkata. The ICC Social Impact Summit and Awards recognize individuals and companies who have made noteworthy achievements in creating social impacts through CSR.

TERI Senior Fellows Among 10 Indian Water Sheroes

TERI senior fellows Dr Nupur Bahadur and Ms Suruchi Bhadwal were selected amongst 10 Indian Water Sheroes in the areas of Climate Change and Water Action by the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to Govt of India, Office of the Chief Science Advisor of Canada, Royal Society of Canada, Office of the Deputy Representative UN Women and the Red Dot Foundation.

TERI, ONDC Sign MoU to Develop Sustainable Market Linkages

Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, and Mr T Koshy, CEO, ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce), signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop sustainable market linkages for uplifting livelihood opportunities in rural areas. The MoU signing ceremony took place at the ONDC, New Delhi office on 30th May 2023.

New Parliament Building Registered with GRIHA Council for 5 Star Rating

The newly inaugurated Parliament House has been awarded with 5-stars under the Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA), a rating tool developed by TERI to assess sustainability features and design of a building.

MoU Signed to Establish CIMP-TERI Centre of Excellence for CSR & ESG

Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI and Prof (Dr) Rana Singh, Director, CIMP Centre for CSR & ESG Studies Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in June 2023 to establish the CIMP-TERI Centre of Excellence for CSR & ESG.

Recognizing the Potential of FPOs

Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) or Farmers Producer Company (FPC) is basically a member-based group of farmers collectively called FPOs. This member-based approach has the potential to transform the agricultural landscape, empowering farmers, improving incomes, enhancing productivity, and ensuring sustainable development. By promoting collective action, FPOs stand as a promising model, initiated by farmers themselves, elevating livelihoods by enhancing market access, negotiating abilities, and overall agricultural efficiency.

Recognizing the immense potential of FPOs and aiming to institutionalize their development, the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation, and Farmers' Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer's Welfare, Government of India has launched a pioneer Central Sector Scheme for Formation and Promotion of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations across the country. The implementation of this scheme involves various stakeholders such as Implementing Agencies, Cluster-Based Business Organizations (CBBOs), the National Project Management Agency (NPMA), and relevant State Authorities. The intervention of FPOs holds the potential to alleviate difficulties faced by small and marginal farmers through collective efforts.

The Implementing Agencies support this intervention by establishing Cluster-Based Business Organizations (CBBOs) at the state/cluster level to form and promote FPOs based on their specific requirements. CBBOs are responsible for implementing the program according to the scheme guidelines and suggestions from the NPMA.

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) has been empanelled as a CBBO under this scheme and it is currently working with implementing agencies like SFAC, NAFED, and NCDC in Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Punjab for formation and promotion of FPOs.

GRIHA Council Adjudged ‘Best National Brand of the Year (Solutions)’

GRIHA Council was honoured with "Best National Brand of the Year” award under the Solutions Category at the Global Smart Build Summit and Award- 6th edition held on 13th April 2023 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Puducherry Sets Green Milestone: Unveils Pioneering Green Budget Report on World Environment Day

On the 50th World Environment Day, the Union Territory of Puducherry released the green budget report, making Puducherry the first Union Territory to adopt the policy innovation of green budgeting. Earlier this year, the UT in its budget session announced green budgeting, gender budgeting, and child budgeting as a triad of nudges towards a more inclusive and sustainable Puducherry.

The report published by the Finance and Environment Departments, Government of Puducherry with research support from The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) was launched at the World Environment Day public event presided by Shri N. Rangasamy, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Puducherry.

TERI Research Aids DMRC in Shaping of ‘Carbonlite Metro Travel’ Initiative

TERI is proud to share that its comprehensive research has aided Delhi Metro Rail Corporation in its initiative ‘CarbonLite Metro Travel’ aimed at informing passengers about the carbon emissions they have saved while using the metro instead of petrol-fueled cars.

TERI’s UTTAM SUPERRHIZA is the Winner of AMI's Product of the Year, 2023

TERI is delighted to share that its Advanced Mycorrhizal Biofertilizer, "Uttam Superrhiza," marketed by Chambal Fertilizers, has been named the winner of the Applied Microbiology International Product of the Year 2023.

This recognition underscores the impact on enhancing soil health, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, and contributing to more environment-friendly farming practices.

Dr Dhawan Felicitated with Game Changer Award

TERI Director General Dr Vibha Dhawan was felicitated with the Game Changer Award at the India Gulf Business Summit 2023 organized by ET Edge on June 14, 2023. Dr Dhawan was given the award by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence of the United Arab Emirates, for redefining initiatives in biotechnology and agriculture.

Dr Dhawan Conferred 'Woman in Agriculture Award 2023'

Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, honoured with 'Woman in Agriculture Award 2023' by Hon'ble Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, GoI Sri Arjun Munda in 14th Agriculture Leadership Conclave 2023 at New Delhi.

This prestigious award recognizes Dr Dhawan's outstanding work in different roles spanned over three decades. The awards were organised by Agriculture Today Group. These awards are given annually to encourage the efforts that have made significant contributions in agriculture, livestock, social and rural development, and positively impacted the lives of millions of farmers.

TERI Inked an MoU with Science Technology and Climate Change Department, Government of Assam

The MoU aims to provide technical and innovative biotechnology support to the department in scientific research and environment friendly solutions in areas related to energy, biotechnology, environment, climate change and sustainable development. The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri Keshab Mahanta, Hon'ble Minister, Science Technology & Climate Change; Ms Laya Madduri, Special Secretary, Science Technology & Climate Change, and other officials from the Government of Assam.

TERI Signs TADOX Technology & Trademark Licence Agreement with Dew Projects and Chemicals Pvt Ltd.

TERI signed the TADOX Technology and Trademark License (TTLA) Agreement with Dew Projects and Chemicals Pvt Ltd., for the commercialization of TERI’s patented wastewater treatment technology for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment and reuse on March 14, 2023.

TERI Signs an MoU with Bharat Soka Gakkai

TERI signed an MoU with Bharat Soka Gakkai to take forward the cause of sustainability and make meaningful contributions for the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.

TERI, NIDM Sign Strategic Partnership in Disaster Risk Reduction

TERI and The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) forged a strategic partnership to foster knowledge and innovation in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and to cultivate a culture of safety.

TERI Team Develops Nanofertilizers for Climate Smart Agriculture

In a remarkable achievement, TERI’s nanofertilizers are now officially listed in the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO) for commercialization after being found completely safe for humans and multiple environmental model systems.

The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), Government of India, has notified the same about TERI’s three nanotechnologies: nano Urea, nano DAP, and nano Phosphorous. Additionally, an amendment in the Gazette of India has been made to include "nano Phosphorous" as a new category under nanofertilizer in the FCO. Nano Phosphorous, the first of its kind, is a phosphorous-based nano-fertilizer developed by TERI.

For TERI, this marks a new niche with significant opportunities for product commercialization in India and many other countries.

MULTIMEDIA

The Earth Pod from TERI

TERI engages with multiple facets of sustainable development from science and technology to policy. The Earth Pod steers conversations on issues related to climate change, energy transitions, and environment friendly growth. In this episode, we discuss India’s G20 Presidency, the expectation of decisive outcomes, and deeper engagement on areas of energy transitions and sustainable development.

From Kumaon Vani Community Radio

It was a busy year for TERI’s community radio ‘Kumaon Vani’ which engaged in several projects to accelerate sustainable outcomes in the region. Some of its key undertakings include:

Uttarakhand Apple Mission Scheme

Mera Tiffin

Short Films

The year saw TERI’s involvement in the making of short films that strove to preserve the environment and empower lives.