Mala Balaji, Researcher - Environment and Climate Action

Engaging young minds: Teaching climate change in Indian schools

Mon, 26/05/2025 - 11:51

Climate change is no longer a tale of polar bears and faraway glaciers. It is the heatwave scorching our summers, the flood water rising in our streets, the drying borewells in our villages and the poor quality of air we breathe. Yet for many young minds across India, this urgent crisis remains hidden in the margins of textbooks reduced to a chapter in science or a passing reference in social studies, easily forgotten after the exam.

The complex legacy of COP29: A crossroad for climate action

Wed, 08/01/2025 - 13:58

Another COP (Conference of Parties) comes and goes, leaving in its wake the familiar aftermath of frustration and unmet expectations. Once again, promises were made, but the gap between words and actions feels wider than ever as COP summits often seem mired in speeches and declarations, with little to show in terms of tangible, transformative outcomes.

Outcomes of the Bonn Climate Talks 2024: The road ahead to COP29

Tue, 22/10/2024 - 10:31

The Bonn Climate Talks in June 2024 marked a critical moment as global leaders, activists, scientists and policymakers came together to tackle the escalating climate crisis. With climate impacts intensifying across the globe, the discussions highlighted the urgent need for swift and tangible actions. These talks serve as a precursor to COP29, carrying the delicate hope of a world attempting to juggle both prosperity and preservation.

Understanding carbon credits and offsets in India: An analysis of key mechanisms

This report analyses various carbon offset methods implemented in India to facilitate effective climate action. The approach involved conducting an in-depth analysis of secondary literature and interviewing field experts. It aims to inform policy making, raise awareness of genuine offset options, emphasize the irreplaceable importance of actual emission reduction, and steer clear of false solutions.

An in-depth analysis of Environment, Social and Governance disclosure by public sector power companies in Tamil Nadu.

This report analyses the environment, social, and governance disclosure practices within Tamil Nadu's power sector. It meticulously evaluates current practices, identifies gaps, and suggests strategies for improved sustainability. By aligning with industry standards and offering actionable recommendations, it seeks to bolster transparency, accountability, and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future in the state's energy sector.

Impact Assessment Report on Climate Change Curriculum in Tamil

The Tamil version of our FOCUS textbook (Climate Change Curriculum for students in grades 6-8) has been piloted in five districts in Tamil Nadu. The findings showed the textbook has brought transformative outcomes, including heightened awareness among students, innovative teaching methods & renewed enthusiasm among educators, marking a significant advancement in climate education in the region. The impact assessment report summarises the findings from the pilot. 

Blended finance: The dichotomy of opportunities and challenges

Fri, 26/04/2024 - 15:30

In the race against climate change, nations worldwide face a monumental challenge: balancing the urgent need for sustainable development with the financial resources required to implement transformative solutions. This is where blended finance emerges as one of the tools in the fight against climate change with the strategic use of development finance and philanthropic funds to mobilise private capital flows to emerging markets.