CSIR-CDRI Marks World Environment Day 2025 with Major Green Milestones

CSIR-CDRI Marks World Environment Day 2025 with Major Green Milestones
 
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Lucknow Desk (R L Pandey): As part of its year-long celebrations marking 75 years of its establishment, the CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR-CDRI), Lucknow, commemorated World Environment Day 2025 by launching three impactful and sustainable green initiatives. The institute inaugurated a 1.2 MW Rooftop Solar Power Plant and a 500 kg/day Biocompost Production Unit, both significant steps towards energy independence and eco-conscious waste management. Additionally, CSIR-CDRI rolled out the #BringYourOwnCup campaign to reduce reliance on single-use plastics and foster environmentally responsible habits among its community.

A Step Toward Clean Energy and Sustainable Waste Management

The biocompost production unit, introduced for efficient organic waste recycling, is designed to convert waste from the institute’s canteens, hostels, and guest houses into nutrient-rich compost. Er. Ranveer Singh elaborated on the system, explaining that it integrates automated shredding, mixing, and aeration. Operating at an optimal temperature of 60–70°C and maintaining 8–10% moisture, the machine processes up to 500 kg of organic waste daily, reducing overall waste volume by up to 80% and producing high-quality manure within 24 to 48 hours. This compost is now being used across CDRI’s horticultural sites, contributing to greener landscaping and healthier soil—while significantly cutting down greenhouse gas emissions.

 Scientific Perspectives on Sustainability and Public Health

A distinguished lecture titled “Surveillance and Management of Antibiotic Resistance through Wastewater Pathways” was also organized as part of the event. The lecture was delivered by Dr. S. Venkata Mohan, Director of CSIR-NEERI, Nagpur, who served as the Guest of Honor. In his address, Dr. Mohan emphasized the environmental aspects of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and advocated for a circular bioeconomy approach, aligning with the One Health framework. He urged the audience to view wastewater not as waste, but as a resource for diagnostics and preventative strategies.

 Leadership in Green Innovation

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Radha Rangarajan, Director of CSIR-CDRI, stressed the importance of integrating environmental responsibility into scientific advancement. “These initiatives are not merely infrastructure projects,” she said, “they reflect a broader transformation in mindset—where sustainability guides our choices and actions to reduce carbon footprints.”

The occasion was graced by Dr. Ajit K. Shasany, Director of CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow, who served as the Chief Guest. Dr. Shasany praised CSIR-CDRI’s sustainability-driven efforts, calling them a “benchmark in green research infrastructure.” He added, “Sustainable infrastructure is essential not only for today's challenges but also to ensure future resilience in scientific ecosystems.”

 Commitment to a Greener Future

Dr. Radha Rangarajan honored Dr. S. Venkata Mohan for his scientific insights and advocacy, and Dr. Ajit K. Shasany for his outstanding contribution to environmental conservation. The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Er. Kamal Jain, who acknowledged the efforts of all dignitaries, organizers, and participants in making the celebration a meaningful success.

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