Biodiversity and Sustainability at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad

Through proactive planning, native plantation, research, and student participation, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad is cultivating a campus that supports rich biodiversity and sets a benchmark in environmental sustainability. These initiatives not only enhance ecological health but also foster a sense of responsibility among future engineers and scientists. These efforts align with "Green India Mission", "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan", and the institute’s Environmental Sustainability Policy.

Green Cover Enhancement
Key Initiatives Undertaken
  • Medicinal and herbal plant garden (Amrit Vatika) in the campus.
  • Annual Campus Plantation Drives: Thousands of saplings are planted each year in collaboration with NSS, Gymkhana Club, Environmental Science and Engineering Department and the Horticulture Department. Special drives are conducted during national environmental campaigns like Hygine and Cleanliness Drive ,Ek Ped Maa ke Naam #Plant4mother, Swachhta Pakhwada, Mission Life and Flower Show.
  • Landscaping with Native Flora: Emphasis on planting indigenous, drought-resistant, and medicinal plants to ensure sustainability.
Impact
  • Plantation zones are planned to reduce heat islands, dust levels, and carbon footprint.
Sustainable Landscaping and Irrigation
  • Use of compost from organic waste generated on campus for soil enrichment.
  • Recycled water from the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) used for watering lawns and plantations.
Community Engagement
  • Student Gymkhana club, Centre for Societal Mission and Department of Environmental Science & Engineering organize various thematic competitions, plantation events, and biodiversity awareness programs.
Future Plans
  • Development of a Campus Biodiversity Park with interpretive trails and plant labelling.
  • Launch of a Campus Biodiversity Portal.
  • Creation of gardens with nectar-rich flowering plants to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
  • Collaborations with MoEFCC, CPCB, and local forest departments for ecological restoration.

Green Coverage

Avoidance of Cutting Mature Trees

Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad follows a strict policy to avoid cutting mature trees within the campus. Tree removal is undertaken only when absolutely necessary, such as for safety reasons, statutory compliance, or unavoidable infrastructure requirements. In such cases, due permission from the competent authority is obtained and efforts are made to minimize ecological impact through compensatory plantation.

Protection and Maintenance of Green Cover

The institute actively protects and maintains existing green cover, including trees, shrubs, lawns, hedges, and landscaped areas throughout the campus. Regular monitoring, watering, pruning, and soil management practices are implemented to ensure the health and sustainability of the green ecosystem within the campus.

Preference for Native Plant Species

The institution emphasizes the use of native and locally suitable plant species in plantation and landscaping activities. This approach helps in maintaining ecological balance, reducing water consumption, and improving biodiversity within the campus environment.

Regular Plantation and Greening Activities

The institute undertakes regular plantation and greening initiatives as part of its environmental sustainability efforts. These activities focus not only on planting trees but also on ensuring long-term survival, growth, and maintenance through systematic care and monitoring programs.

🌿 Green Campus Overview (2024-25)

Total Campus Area

213.82

Acres
Green Covered Area

86.99

Acres
Mature Trees

13,500

(10+ Years)
Saplings Planted

4,500

Per Year