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 “India's National Biodiversity Action Plan”, "Green India Mission", "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan", and the institute’s Environmental Sustainability Policy.

Key Initiatives Undertaken
  • 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 Van Mahotsav, Swachhta Pakhwada, and Mission LiFE.
  • 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.

  • 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.
  • Deployment of drip irrigation systems in selected green zones to minimize water use.

  • Student Gymkhana club, Centre for Societal Mission and Department of Environmental Science & Engineering organize various thematic competitions, plantation events, and biodiversity awareness programs.

  • Development of a Campus Biodiversity Park with interpretive trails and plant labelling.
  • Launch of a Campus Biodiversity Portal to track flora, fauna, and student research contributions.
  • Creation of gardens with nectar-rich flowering plants to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
  • Development of a medicinal and herbal plant garden in the campus.
  • Collaborations with MoEFCC, CPCB, and local forest departments for ecological restoration.