
Cities are at crossroads, confronting challenges posed by increasing population growth, climate change, and faltering livability. 'Living labs' is an innovative approach to improve ecosystem interlinkages for encouraging innovation in education for sustainability. Campuses serve as living examples of how research institutions can actively contribute to sustainability, industrial ecology, climate action, and technological innovation, while providing students and stakeholders a practical learning environment.
Vision & Scope
The Living Lab at CSIR-NEERI is a dynamic platform where innovation, research, and real-world applications intersect to create a sustainable and model campus. This initiative aims to integrate environmental stewardship with nature-inspired technology, fostering an ecosystem of learning, experimentation, and implementation.
Key Objectives & Focus
- Strategic Campus Sustainability: Develop and implement sustainability strategies on the CSIR-NEERI campus, serving as a model for expansion to other CSIR institutes.
- Baseline Sustainability Metrics & Roadmap: Establish a framework for improving sustainability performance over the next 5 to 10 years.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Engage experts in air, water, biodiversity, energy, and engineering to develop integrated solutions.
- Climate Resilience & Regenerative Practices: Address climate change challenges through adaptive, low-carbon strategies.
- Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency: Infuse sustainable energy solutions while enhancing overall energy efficiency.
- Sustainable Infrastructure: Implement green building designs, community gardens, and water conservation systems.
- Circular Resource Management: Optimize waste and wastewater reuse while promoting low-carbon materials.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Involve scientists, AcSIR scholars, and the local community in sustainability initiatives.
- Integration into Curriculum: Develop sustainability-focused courses and projects within AcSIR.
- Monitoring & Impact Measurement: Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for energy savings, improved campus transportation, increased student participation, and waste reduction.
- CSR & Funding Support: Explore CSR funding from CSIR and other stakeholders.