The Green Guide to Environmental Courses and Careers : (Green Career) [1 ed.] 9788179936313, 9788179935699

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The book is a timely contribution.... It should help the young students to become the architects of a sustainable future for our country.

– MS Swaminathan

– MS SWAMINATHAN Father of the Indian Green Revolution

As India gradually moves towards a “green” economy, new avenues of employment are opening up for today’s youth. For students thinking about future course and career options, this one-of-its-kind handbook offers a rich body of information required to turn a green interest into a future opportunity. From environmental engineering, environmental science, and environmental law to agriculture, climate science, and zoology – it profiles a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, and the broad spectrum of careers they lead to. Peppered with anecdotal accounts from well-known professionals and a handy listing of useful resources, The Green Guide to Environmental Courses and Careers is a must-have for any student keen on harnessing a green passion.

THE GREEN GUIDE TO ENVIRONMENT COURSES AND CAREERS

2015 marks the beginning of the UN Decade of Sustainable Development. Sustainable development involves the incorporation of ecological principles in technology development and dissemination. It is in this context that the present book by Ms Megha Aggarwal is a timely contribution. The book covers a wide range of information dealing with agriculture, energy, engineering, medicine, architecture, finance, and environmental management. It should help the young students to become the architects of a sustainable future for our country. I hope the book will be read and used widely.

ISBN 978-81-7993-569-9

9 788179 935699 `150

The Energy and Resources Institute

This book is printed on recycled paper.

Megha Aggarwal

From the Desk of Dr Leena Srivastava

The 1970s are known for the Green Revolution in India. However, this decade was also vital to the introduction of environmental education in the country. The International Conference on Environment Education that took place in Tbilisi, Georgia, in 1977 put the onus on the governments of the world to follow a curriculum for programmes on environment. Following the conference, several Indian universities and institutes made determined efforts to establish academic programmes in environmental education and by the 1980s, many courses were introduced.   In 1999, the government also undertook a World Bank-aided study to identify the gaps and anomalies in environmental education in India. This study was instrumental in the development of a school syllabus that attempts to improve children’s understanding and knowledge of the environment. These measures have created a generation of eco-savvy youngsters who send e-cards on birthdays instead of wasting paper and mock upon bursting crackers during Diwali. They have increased the willingness of the youth to contribute to environmental causes. However, a number of students may not know that today there are various ways in which they can convert their green interests into a career. The Green Guide to Environmental Courses and Careers is a pioneering practical guide for students keen on exploring study options and career fields in the environmental domain in India. Handy facts and snippets from the lives of professionals make it a useful addition to the environmental literature of the country.

Dr Leena Srivastava Vice Chancellor, TERI University

Megha Aggarwal has been writing on social issues, especially education, for a few years now. She has contributed to the education supplements of The Times of India as well as The Hindu, and has also written for The New Paper – part of Singapore Press Holdings. She is deeply interested in understanding what it means to be young and what expectations youngsters have of their lives, especially their academic life. When she is not writing on education, she enjoys cooking up stories for children and editing children’s books at a Chennai-based publishing house.

Megha Aggarwal

The Energy and Resources Institute

An imprint of The Energy and Resources Institute © The Energy and Resources Institute, 2016 First published in 2016 by The Energy and Resources Institute TERI Press Darbari Seth Block, IHC Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi 110 003, India Tel. 2468 2100/4150 4900, Fax: 2468 2144/2468 2145 India +91 n Delhi (0)11 Email: [email protected] n Website: http://bookstore.teriin.org ISBN 978-81-7993-569-9 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher. All export rights for this book vest exclusively with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). Unauthorized export is a violation of terms of sale and is subject to legal action. Author: Megha Aggarwal Publishing Head: Anupama Jauhry Editorial and Production Teams: Nandita Bhardwaj, Ekta Sharma, Himanshi Sharma; Aman Sachdeva Design and Illustration Teams: Santosh Gautam and Vijay Nipane Image Researcher: Shilpa Mohan Counsellor: Jayaprakash Gandhi Disclaimer: The colleges, universities, and organizations listed in this book do not constitute or imply endorsement, recommendation, or favouring by TERI. The views and opinions of the author of the contents are their own and do not necessarily state or reflect the opinion of TERI. Printed and bound in India This book is printed on recycled paper.

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 06 07 WHAT TO STUDY: A course checklist for students 10 WHERE TO STUDY: A college checklist for students GREEN COURSES DESIGN AND PLANNING • Environmental Architecture   o Landscape Architecture • Urban Planning • Wildlife Photography   o Wildlife Filmmaking FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT • Agribusiness Management   o Rural Management • Environmental Economics • Environmental Management HUMANITIES • Environmental Journalism • Environmental Law SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING • Agriculture • Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery • Biochemistry • Bioinformatics • Biotechnology • Botany • Chemical Engineering • Civil Engineering

13 14 15 16 18 19 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

•   • •   •     • •   • •   • • •   • • • • •  

Climate Science o Meteorology Dairy Technology Electrical Engineering o Electronic Engineering o Power Systems Engineering Energy Engineering o Renewable Energy Engineering o Energy/Power Management Environmental Engineering Environmental Science o Environmental Studies Fishery Science Forestry o Forest Management Geography Horticulture Marine Science o Marine Biology Mechanical Engineering Microbiology Remote Sensing Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry Zoology o Wildlife Science

32 33 34 36 38 39 40 41 43 44 46 47 48 49 50 51

WHAT TO PURSUE: A career checklist for students

53

GREEN CAREERS Careers in Agriculture • Agribusiness • Agricultural Finance • Agriculture Research

57 57 58 59

• Fisheries 60 • Forestry 61 Career in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery 62 Career in Carbon Finance 63 Careers in Climate 65 • Climate Change 65 • Meteorology 67 Career in Ecotourism               68 Career in Environmental Architecture 69 Career in Environmental Auditing 72 Career in Environmental Consultancy 74 Career in Environmental Journalism 75 Career in Environmental Law 77 Careers in Green Transport and Infrastructure 79 • Green Vehicles 79 • Public Transport and Infrastructure 80 Careers in Renewable Energy 83 • Smart Grids 84 Career in the Social Sector 86 Career in Teaching 88 Career in Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry 89 Career in Waste Management 91 Careers in Wildlife Conservation 93 • Wildlife Photography and Filmmaking 96 USEFUL RESOURCES 98 INDEX 102 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 104

INTRODUCTION How to use this book?

A practical handbook for students, The Green Guide to Environmental Courses and Careers provides an overview of course and career options in the environmental field in India. This book is divided into three major sections, covering courses, careers, and other useful information. The Green Courses section, begins with handy checklists of points students need to bear in mind when selecting an environmental course and a college. It contains an alphabetical listing of more than 30 courses, split between four major disciplines: Design and Planning; Finance and Management; Humanities, and Science and Engineering. Each course contains a brief write-up, about what the student can expect to learn from it, and bulleted points that offer a snapshot of all the relevant information, such as the level at which the course is offered (for example, if it’s an undergraduate or postgraduate course), duration, eligibility, entry, and important dates. At the end of each course is a selective listing of universities and institutes offering it. Similarly, the Green Career section, starts off with a handy checklist. This section outlines more than 15 major career fields that students can opt for. Each career is summarized in an easy-to-understand manner, giving a general idea about relevant courses, the nature of work, and employment avenues. It is supplemented by the personal thoughts and experiences of well-known personalities working in this field. The book ends with a Useful Resources section, that contains a selective listing of more than 30 key organizations working in the environmental field in India as well as other fun lists of ecological destinations to vacation in and environmental days to celebrate. This book is a comprehensive, one-stop guide to basic information required to begin a green quest.

The Green Guide I 6-7

WHAT TO STUDY?

A course checklist for students COMMON ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THIS BOOK UG – Undergraduate PG – Postgraduate BSc – Bachelor of Science MSc – Master of Science BTech – Bachelor of Technology MTech – Master of Technology BA – Bachelor of Arts MA – Master of Arts JEE – Joint Entrance Examination GATE – Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering CAT – Common Admission Test IIT – Indian Institute of Technology NIT – National Institute of Technology General pointers

✿ While some courses listed in this section, such as Ayurvedic Medicine and

Surgery, may not appear to be typical environmental courses, they still have an inextricable link to the environment, because they bring out various ways in which nature provides for society. Other courses, such as chemical, mechanical, and electrical energy, find widespread application in environmental fields, such as waste management and renewable energy. ✿ Undergraduate engineering and medical courses are for 4 years or more, while most other undergraduate courses are usually for 3 years. It is important to establish this difference for students who intend to go abroad to pursue further studies, as many universities abroad, especially in the USA, require Master’s students to have 16 years of education, and those with a 3-year undergraduate degree only have 15 (10+2+3). ✿ Admission time can be hectic for students, hence it’s worthwhile preparing for it in advance: ✓ Check on application forms, registration and entrance exam dates well in advance. ✓ Check on documents you would need at the time of application.

✓ Check if application and registration can be done online. ✓ If you are taking more than two entrance exams, prepare a time-table

to avoid clashes. ✓ If the institute is in a far-off place, check if they conduct the exam in different centres, so you can select the one that is closest to you. ✓ If you need to travel for an exam, book your tickets and arrange accommodation well in advance. ✿ Entrance exams ✓ Postgraduate admissions are almost always based on entrance exams. However, UG admissions, barring disciplines such as engineering, medical, and certain science courses, for example in agriculture and biotechnology, tend to be based on Class 12 results. ✓ Scores of some entrance exams, such as JEE, GATE, and CAT are widely accepted by many educational institutions across the country. However, it is also common for institutes and universities to have their own entrance exams for admissions to courses they offer. Students should ideally sit for both kinds of entrance exams to increase their chances of getting into a good institute. ✓ Past question papers are an important resource in preparing for entrance tests. They help students to understand the nature of the entrance exam – are the questions mostly objective, such as multiple choice, fill in the blanks, Yes or No, or are there any subjective portions like short essays. ✓ Past question papers also shed light on the subjects being tested in an entrance exam and the weightage being given to these. Usually, engineering and science entrance exams tend to have objective, maths and sciencebased questions, while management entrance exams tend to test maths skills as well as language comprehension and general awareness. Entrance exams for humanities courses like law test language comprehension, general awareness as well as critical thinking and logical reasoning skills. Some entrances like that of journalism may also include subjective components like short essays. ✓ Past question papers are usually available online or in guide books. Students can also procure copies from institutes and universities, or seek help from counsellors as well as students already studying in the institute, in case they are unable to find the question papers.

The Green Guide I 8-9 ✓ Students should ideally assess their aptitude at the exam preparation stage,

so that they know which topics or areas need more time and effort.

✓ While solving past question papers, students need to bear in mind the

duration of the test and try and stick to it, even as they factor in the time to read questions carefully. ✿ Further studies: Environmental courses are highly interdisciplinary, which often creates wide ranging options for further studies. Moreover, some courses, such as environmental journalism, are usually open to all graduates. This book provides a selective listing of further study options for UG courses. ✿ Related courses: These courses deal with the same subject, but with a difference in emphasis. For example zoology and wildlife science, both study animals. However, while zoology is more broad-ranging, wildlife science is fairly niche and focuses on conservation. Similarly, meteorology and climate science are inter-related, but meteorology focuses more on weather while climate science is wider. ✿ Finally, it is important to acknowledge that simply pursuing a course is not a gateway to a career. One has to consider personal interest in the course matter as well. Only when you are truly interested in something can you make a satisfactory career out of it. This is especially important for academic careers, such as in education and research, which often require a PhD and many years of arduous work.

FOR UNDERGRADUATE COURSES

Ideally, after completing Class 10 examinations, students should identify their interests and shortlist relevant courses at the UG level. Here’s a checklist of things you need to inquire: ✿ Eligibility: Subjects you need to take in Class 12 to qualify for a course and percentage requirements. ✿ Admission: Whether it is based on Class 12 results, an entrance exam, or both. If it is based on Class 12 results, inquire on aggregate cut-off marks. If it is based on entrance exams, inquire if the institute accepts results of common entrance exams, such as JEE, or has its own entrance exam. If admission is based on both, Class 12 and entrance exam, inquire on the weightage given to each. ✿ Scope: Usually, after Class 12, students are not completely sure of what they intend to pursue. So a general course is more preferable than a niche

course. Many common UG courses, such as botany, biotechnology, zoology, civil engineering, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering, can be followed up with PG specializations in environment.

FOR POSTGRADUATE COURSES

In India, most courses in environment are PG courses. While considering PG options is an immediate concern with students entering the final year of an UG course, it may be worthwhile for all students to factor in these courses when they are planning their higher education after school. Here’s a quick checklist: ✿ Eligibility: Not every PG course is open to all undergraduates. For example, PG courses in engineering are only open to engineering undergraduates or those with a Master’s in science. Also, many institutes prefer students who have graduated in a related discipline, for example, agriculture graduates are preferred for courses in agribusiness management, and architecture graduates are preferred for courses in environmental architecture. ✿ Admission: Most PG courses require students to take an entrance test. While GATE and CAT results are accepted by many universities and institutes offering engineering and management courses respectively, others conduct their own entrance exams.

WHERE TO STUDY? A college checklist for students General pointers

✿ Refer to sources such as Times Higher Education Rankings and QS World

University rankings to learn more about universities and institutes offering courses you’re interested in, and how they fair academically. ✿ Alumni review: Identify and speak to people who have graduated from the university or institute recently to get more insights to it. It may be useful if the university or institute has a strong alumni network and has produced notable alumni working in the environmental field. ✿ Placements: Many universities and institutes offer placements, especially at the PG level. Look up their most recent placement records to determine their industry recognition.

The Green Guide I 10-11 ✿ Location: For institutes away from home, inquire on residential and transport

arrangements, and if you know anyone living there. Also look into factors, such as climate and culture, which may impact physical and mental health. ✿ Postgraduate options: Some universities and institutes offer excellent PG programmes in environment. Joining these institutes for a more general but relevant UG course may be a good idea, as PG admission may become somewhat easier. Postgraduate students keen on an academic career should look at research opportunities, such as research fellowships, PhD and doctorate programmes, offered by a particular university or institute. ✿ Extra-curricular options: Inquire about the extra-curricular options at the university or institute for those keen on environmental pursuits, for example, magazines covering environmental issues or eco-clubs that conduct environment-related activities like nature treks and beach clean-ups. ✿ Scholarships: Many universities and institutes may offer scholarships, especially for PG courses. Inquire about the prerequisites to apply for these, for example, if they are open to all students with a strong academic performance or do they also consider the economic background of students. ✿ Selective listing: India is home to a large number of reputed universities and institutes offering a wide variety of courses. A selective listing of universities and institutes has been provided under each course, based on independent research as well as discussions with students and counsellors. ✿ Course names: When a particular discipline is known by different names in different institutions or has related courses, course names have been included in the university and institute listing. ✿ Study abroad: Some environmental courses, such as climate science or environmental economics, are extremely niche. Hence, a select listing of universities overseas offering these courses has also been provided.

Green Courses

The Green Guide I 12-13

DESIGN AND PLANNING Environmental Architecture Environmental architecture – a niche specialization – focuses on designing infrastructure, such as offices, homes, and schools, which have a minimal adverse effect on the environment. It attempts to conserve the natural environment through the use of eco-friendly building materials and construction practices. For example, using bamboo instead of hardwood flooring or using flooring made from wood waste, using solar panels on the rooftop, using energy-efficient lighting and appliances and water-saving plumbing fixtures.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in architecture. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Many engineering institutes or engineering departments at universities that offer this course accept GATE scores. Others have their own entrance exams.   Important dates: Usually, the application deadline for GATE is in October and the exam is held in February. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Related courses: • Landscape architecture: Concerns primarily the design of outdoor areas, such as public parks and terrace gardens to achieve a balance between concrete structures and green, breathing spaces. • Urban planning (see p. 14) SUN DIAL BUILDING, DEZHOU, CHINA The end of the 20th century witnessed the growing importance of renewable energy in architecture. With an area of 75,000 square metres the Sun Dial Building is presently the largest solar powered building in the world. Its fan-like roof, covered in hundreds of solar panels, resembles an ancient sundial.

PLACES TO STUDY • Anna University, Chennai – Master’s in Landscape Architecture • Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) University, Ahmedabad – Master’s in Landscape Architecture • Rachna Sansad, Institute of Environmental Architecture, Mumbai – Master’s in Environmental Architecture • School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), (New Delhi, Bhopal) – Master’s in Landscape Architecture • University of Pune – Master’s in Environmental Architecture; Master’s in Landscape Architecture STUDY ABROAD • University of Pennsylvania, USA – One-year Master’s in Environmental Building Design for those with professional experience • University of California, Berkley – Two-year Master’s in Landscape Architecture

Urban Planning Urban planning – a fast emerging specialization – is about developing urban areas like cities and towns, keeping in mind strategic features, such as fresh air, clean water supply, well-built roads, adequate housing, and transport facilities. Students are trained to draw plans of urban development based on thorough research, analysis, and assessment of the area, its location and population. The course aims at sustainable urban development by making use of renewable energy technologies and efficient waste management systems.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in related disciplines, such as architecture, environmental, or civil engineering. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Many engineering institutes or engineering departments at universities that offer this course accept GATE scores. Others have their own entrance exams.

The Green Guide I 14-15

Important dates: Usually, the application deadline for GATE is in October and the exam is held in February. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. PLACES TO STUDY • Anna University, Chennai • Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi • Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) University, Ahmedabad • IIT (Kharagpur, Roorkee) • Institute of Town Planners, New Delhi • NIT (Nagpur, Surat) • School of Planning and Architecture (New Delhi, Bhopal, Vijayawada)

Wildlife Photography Wildlife photography – essentially a hobby course – is about photographing animals in their natural surroundings. Any natural sight that captures one’s imagination makes a good frame, for example, a predator waiting for prey, animals nursing or feeding their young, or moving in a herd. The course typically entails learning the basics of photography, handling tools and equipment, and making use of photo editing software. Moreover, the course leads to knowledge and skill enhancement essential to photograph wildlife, such as safety measures necessary to bear in mind while working on assignments in the field.

• Usually offered as a certificate course in India or taught as part of photojournalism courses. • Course duration: Usually ranges from a few months to a year Eligibility: Usually open to all. A small portfolio containing pictures you may have clicked will be useful. Entry: Usually based on the number of seats available for the course. Hence students must inquire in advance and register on time. Important dates: Students need to inquire about registration dates well in advance.

Related course: • Wildlife filmmaking: Offered as a full-fledged course at select universities and institutes abroad. In India, it’s sometimes taught as a part of regular filmmaking courses. PLACES TO STUDY • Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Maharashtra – Certificate course in Wildlife and Travel Photography • Creative Hut, Kottayam, Kerala – Wildlife Photography course • Delhi School of Photography – Certificate course in Nature and Wildlife Photography STUDY ABROAD • University of Montana, USA – Two-year Master’s in Fine Arts in Science and Natural History Filmmaking • University of Otago, New Zealand – One-year PG Diploma in Natural History Filmmaking and Communication • Wildlife Film Academy, South Africa – One-month course in Wildlife Filmmaking

FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT Agribusiness Management

Agribusiness management focuses on the management of businesses that earn most or all of their revenue from agriculture. It includes overseeing activities involved in the production, processing, packaging, distribution, and marketing of agricultural goods. For example, the production and sale of agricultural raw materials like seeds and fertilizers and the processing, packaging, and marketing of food products. This course also looks into industry-specific matters, such as government policies on food and agriculture and economically beneficial farming techniques, that protect the environment as well as humans and animals engaged in agriculture.

The Green Guide I 16-17

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in agriculture. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Students from non-agricultural backgrounds must inquire about their admission criteria with individual universities and institutes. Entry: Most institutes accept the Common Admission Test (CAT) scores. Other entrance tests that may be considered include the Management Aptitude Test (MAT), Xavier Admission Test (XAT), the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), and the Common Management Aptitude Test (CMAT). Apart from entrance test results, institutes also evaluate students’ performance in a Group Discussion and a Personal Interview. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for CAT is in September and the exam is held in November; application deadline for MAT is in November and the exam is held in December; application deadline for XAT is in December and the exam is held in January; application deadline for CMAT is in January and the exam is held in February as well as in September. GMAT takes place all year-round. Related course: • Rural management: Since agriculture primarily takes place in rural areas in India, a handful of institutes offer specialized courses in rural management that zooms into managing the activities taking place in rural areas, such as crop production and harvesting. PLACES TO STUDY • Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu – MA Rural Management • Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar – MBA in Agribusiness • Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand – MBA in Agribusiness • Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad and Lucknow – PG programme in Agribusiness Management • Indian Institute of Rural Management (IRMA), Gujarat – PG programme in Rural Management • Institute of Agribusiness Management, Rajasthan – MBA in Agribusiness

• Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – MBA in Agribusiness • Symbiosis Institute of International Business, Pune – MBA in Agribusiness • National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad – PG Diploma in Agribusiness Management • Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha – PG programme in Rural Management

Environmental Economics Environmental economics – a niche specialization in economics – deals with the relationship between the environment and economic development. It seeks to develop policies that offer a balance between safeguarding the environment and growing the economy of a country. For example, it studies how resources, such as forests, water, and land, can be developed and managed to benefit the economy while preventing problems, such as loss of biodiversity and air and water pollution.

• Usually a subject in PG economics or environmental management courses in India, only a handful of places offer it as a full-fledged course. • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in related disciplines, such as commerce, economics, environmental science, or engineering. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 50–60 per cent. Entry: Admission is usually based on entrance exams, conducted by individual universities and institutes. Students may also need to appear for a Personal Interview. Important dates: Students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notifications, deadlines, and entrance exam dates well in advance. PLACES TO STUDY • Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu – MA Environmental Economics • Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research, Mumbai – MSc Economics with several modules related to Environmental Economics • Madras School of Economics, Tamil Nadu – MSc Environmental Economics

The Green Guide I 18-19

• Teri University, New Delhi – MSc Economics with a specialization in Environmental and Resource Economics STUDY ABROAD • London School of Economics, UK – MSc in Environmental Economics and Climate Change • University of Birmingham, UK – MSc Environmental and Natural Resource Economics 3. University of Manchester, UK – MSc Environmental Economics

Environmental Management Environmental Management – a multidisciplinary field – is the study of the various measures that organizations, such as industries and companies can take to regulate and protect the health of the natural environment, even as they go about conducting their business. For example, it covers the environmental laws they need to follow when setting up business units such as factories, ways in which they can reduce waste and energy use in their business operations, and how they can conduct an environmental impact assessment of their activities.

• Postgraduate course, usually offered as an MBA or PG Diploma in Environmental Management. However, some institutes also offer it as an MSc. • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in related disciplines, such as civil, chemical, or environmental engineering, or a Master’s in environmental science. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Many universities and institutes offering MBA programmes accept CAT scores, but others may also conduct their own entrance tests. Students may also need to appear for a Group Discussion and a Personal Interview. Admission to MSc programmes is usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for CAT is in September and the exam is held in November. For other exams, students must inquire with individual universities and institutes.

PLACES TO STUDY • Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu – MBA Environmental Management • Forest Research Institute (FRI) University, Dehradun – MSc Environmental Management • National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE), Mumbai – PG Diploma in Industrial Safety and Environmental Management • SIES Indian Institute of Environment Management, Mumbai – PG Diploma in Environmental Management • University of Pune – PG Diploma in Environmental Management ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PORTAL Environmental management came to the fore during the 1970s due to the creation of environmental laws and regulations to tackle problems of pollution. However, over the years, its emphasis has shifted from mere pollution abatement to resource management for cost reduction and performance maximization. It is no longer driven just by government laws and policies, but goes beyond compliance to address concerns, such as climate change and ozone depletion.   Impact Assessment is at the heart of environmental management. It is used to determine whether a project is a “go” or “no go” from the environmental point of view. For projects that are deemed environmentally feasible, it comes into play at all levels right from concept to design to implementation. Impact Assessment is the key skill for all aspiring and practicing environmental professionals.   A pioneering step in this direction is the Ekonnect online learning channel (www.ekonnect.net) that helps entry-level and mid-career environment professionals deepen their understanding of Impact Assessment. It offers e-courses as well as a range of other handy information they can use to bolster their knowledge of this field. – Prasad Modak, Executive President, Environmental Management Centre

The Green Guide I 20-21

HUMANITIES

Environmental Journalism Environmental journalism – a fast emerging field – reports on issues, events, and trends related to the environment, such as health, nutrition, agriculture, food, and climate change. It offers insights and controversies to the public with accuracy and flair. This course aims to improve the quality of such journalism by training students to react critically to environmental issues.

• Usually an elective in PG journalism courses in India. Some universities abroad offer it as a full-fledged PG course. • Course duration: 1 year Eligibility: Journalism courses are usually open to graduates from any discipline with at least 50 per cent or equivalent. However, graduation in an environmental discipline, such as botany or zoology may be useful. Entry: Admissions are usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. Important dates: Students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notifications, deadlines, and entrance exam dates well in advance. PLACES TO STUDY • Asian College of Journalism, Chennai – PG Diploma in Journalism with an elective on “Ecology and Environment” • International Institute of Journalism & New Media, Bengaluru – PG Diploma in Journalism with an elective on “Covering Health and Environmental Issues” • Xavier Institute of Communication, Mumbai – Advanced PG Programme in Journalism and Mass Communication with an elective on “Science and Technology, Environment and Health Journalism” STUDY ABROAD • Michigan State University, USA – MA Environmental Journalism • New York University, USA – 16-month Health and Environmental Reporting programme

• University of Colorado Boulder, USA – MA in Journalism Studies with a specialization in Environmental Science and Policy • University of Montana, USA – MA in Environmental and Natural Resources Journalism

Environmental Law Environmental law – a niche specialization – is the study of laws that seek to protect the natural environment from the adverse effects of human activity. For example, laws on the prevention and control of air and water pollution, managing and handling waste, conserving forests and protecting wildlife. It focuses on how these laws are made, ways in which they protect the environment, and how they are enforced in society.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 1 year Eligibility: Undergraduate degree in law or equivalent with at least 55 per cent. Entry: Admissions are usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. Some may accept Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) scores. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for CLAT is in March and the exam is held in early May. For other exams, students need to check with individual universities and institutes well in advance. BHOPAL GAS TRAGEDY AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW In 1984, India witnessed one of the worst industrial disasters in the world – the Bhopal Gas Tragedy. It became a turning point in the history of Environmental Law in India. In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Ministry of Environment and Forests was established, and the Government passed the momentous Environmental Protection Act. In December 2014, twenty years after the catastrophe the poignant “Remembering Bhopal Museum” was inaugurated at Berasia Road, Bhopal.

The Green Guide I 22-23

PLACES TO STUDY • Bangalore University • Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Maharashtra • Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala • The Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University, Chennai • University of Mumbai

SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING Agriculture A course in agriculture looks at various ways in which agricultural productivity can be improved. While agricultural engineering applies principles of mechanical, civil, electrical, and chemical engineering to study and devise technology that can be applied to boosting agricultural production and processing, agricultural science is a field in biology that studies the scientific principles involved in the practice of agriculture. For example, engineering will zoom into the design of machinery that can improve the way seeds are sown and crops are irrigated, whereas agriculture science will closely examine the quality of seeds that need to be sown in a particular type of land and the amount and type of water required for adequate irrigation.

• Undergraduate course offered as a BTech in Agricultural Engineering, as well as a BSc in Agriculture  • Course duration: 4 years for BTech; most BSc programmes also have the same duration Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, biology, and maths Entry: Many universities and institutes accept JEE scores for engineering courses, but others may have their own entrance exam. BSc admissions are usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes, but some may also consider Class 12 results. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research

(ICAR) conducts an all-India entrance exam to fill 15 per cent of the seats at its affiliated agricultural universities in different states. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for JEE is in December and the exam is held in April. Application deadline for the ICAR exam is usually in February and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Further studies: Engineering graduates can pursue ME/MTech in agricultural engineering/dairy technology/biotechnology. Both science and engineering students can opt for PGD/MBA in agribusiness management/rural management or an MSc in agriculture/horticulture/fishery science SILENT SPRING An environmental classic published in 1962, Silent Spring describes how the use of synthetic pesticides like DDT destroyed animal life, especially birds in agricultural fields. Author Rachel Carson’s powerful narrative serves as a major milestone in the environmental movement by highlighting and addressing various activities that endanger the natural world. PLACES TO STUDY • Anand Agricultural University, Gujarat – BSc Agriculture, BTech Agricultural Engineering • Anna University, Chennai – BE Agricultural and Irrigation Engineering • Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar – BTech in Agricultural Engineering, BSc in Agriculture • Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand – BTech in Agricultural Engineering, BSc in Agriculture • Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur – BTech Agricultural and Food Engineering; also offers a number of dual degree programmes • Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – BTech in Agricultural Engineering, BSc in Agriculture • Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore – BTech in Agricultural Engineering, BSc in Agriculture • University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru – BSc in Agriculture

The Green Guide I 24-25

Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery A medical system indigenous to India, Ayurvedic medicine and surgery has now gained worldwide recognition. Ayurveda, also known as the “science of life” in Sanskrit, studies how various diseases originate in the human body and ways in which they can be treated using natural remedies, such as medicines derived from plants, animals, and rocks. For example, medicines made using cow’s milk, minerals like gold found in rocks, and the leaves of the tulsi plant. It also includes the study of surgeries, such as the Kshar sutra, where a medicated thread is used to treat overgrown soft tissues like warts and ulcers.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 5½ years (including a one-year internship) Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, and biology Entry: Admission is usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. Important dates: Students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notification, deadlines, and entrance exam dates well in advance. Further studies: Master’s in any of the more than 20 specialized branches of Ayurveda, such as Bal roga (Paediatrics), which involves looking after the health of children and Stri roga (Gynaecology and Obstetrics), which involves looking after the health of the female reproductive system. AYURVEDIC CLASSICS The Sushruta and Charaka Samhita are the two foundational texts in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery. The Sushruta Samhita, a treatise primarily on surgery is believed to have been written in 800 bce, while the Charaka Samhita, which mainly covers internal medicine is said to date back to between 400-200 bce. PLACES TO STUDY • Ayurvedic & Unani Tibbia College, Delhi University • Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Maharashtra

• Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi • Government Ayurveda Colleges in Kannur, Ernakulam, and Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala • Gujarat Ayurveda University, Jamnagar • Gurukul Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Uttarakhand • Podar Ayurved Medical College, Mumbai • Rishikul State College, Uttarakhand

Biochemistry Biochemistry is the study of the chemical processes occurring in living organisms. It focuses on the structure, function, and interaction of molecules, such as proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids found in living beings that play a vital role in the survival of life. The study of biochemistry dates back hundreds of years and is believed to have begun with the discovery of the enzyme amylase, which is found in the saliva of humans and some other mammals and helps in digestion of food.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates from related disciplines, such as botany, zoology, chemistry, and biotechnology. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Admission is usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. Important dates: Students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notifications, deadlines, and entrance exam dates well in advance. PLACES TO STUDY • Aligarh Muslim University, UP • Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Maharashtra • Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi

• Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala • Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi

The Green Guide I 26-27

• Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi • University of Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam • University of Calcutta • University of Delhi

• • • • • •

University of Kerala University of Madras University of Mumbai University of Mysore University of Pondicherry University of Pune

Bioinformatics Bioinformatics is the science of managing biological data using Information Technology (IT), for example, how computers can be used to gather, store, analyze, and integrate biological data, such as genetic codes. The course includes modules in biology as well as IT. While the biology modules cover topics like genetics, cell and molecular biology, the IT modules cover methods of statistically mapping and interpreting data.

• Postgraduate course most commonly offered as an MSc in Bioinformatics. However, some institutes also offer it as an MTech. • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in related disciplines, such as biotechnology and computer science. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Admission is usually based on entrance exams, conducted by individual universities and institutes. Important dates: Students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notifications, deadlines, and entrance exam dates well in advance. HUMAN GENOME PROJECT One of the greatest feats of scientific exploration, the Human Genome Project was a comprehensive study of all of the genes that make up a human being. An extensive exercise in bioinformatics, genetic data was accumulated and analysed to identify the structure, organization, and function of a complete set of human genes. Among other things, it revealed that there are probably about 20,500 human genes.

PLACES TO STUDY • Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bengaluru – MSc Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology (degree offered by University of Mysore) • International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad – MS by Research Bioinformatics, MTech Bioinformatics • Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi – MSc Bioinformatics • Manipal University, Karnataka – MSc Bioinformatics, MTech Bioinformatics Engineering • SRM University, Tamil Nadu – MTech Bioinformatics • University of Madras – MSc Bioinformatics • University of Pune – MSc Bioinformatics • Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu – MSc Bioinformatics

Biotechnology Biotechnology is the study of how biological matter, like plant and animal cells, can be used to create technology and products that can benefit all living beings. For example, how bacteria can be used for making antibiotics that can cure human ailments or how stem cells can be engineered to fight cancer. Likewise, the knowledge of plant genes is used to develop breeding techniques that can produce high yielding crop varieties.

• Undergraduate course, most commonly offered as a BTech in Biotechnology. However, some institutes also offer it as a BSc. • Course duration: BTech programmes are for 4 years, BSc programmes are for 3 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, biology and maths Entry: Many universities and institutes offering engineering programmes accept JEE scores, but others may have their own entrance exams. For BSc programmes, universities and institutes usually conduct their own entrance exams. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for JEE is in December and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students must inquire with individual universities and institutes well in advance.

The Green Guide I 28-29

Further studies: Engineering graduates can pursue ME/MTech biotechnology/ bioinformatics/agriculture/dairy technology/environmental engineering. Science and engineering graduates can either pursue MSc in biotechnology/biochemistry/ bioinformatics/microbiology/agriculture/forestry/wildlife science or PGD/MBA in agribusiness management PLACES TO STUDY • Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Maharashtra – BSc Biotechnology • Delhi Technological University – BTech Biotechnology • IIT Guwahati, Madras, Roorkee – BTech Biotechnology • IIT Kharagpur – BTech Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering • Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi – BSc Biotechnology • Manipal University, Karnataka – BSc Biotechnology, BTech Biotechnology • NIT Tiruchirapalli, Warangal – BTech Biotechnology • Vellore Institute of Technology University, Tamil Nadu – BTech Biotechnology

Botany Botany – a key branch of biology – is the study of the origins, development, and habitat distribution of plant life. It gives a rich insight to plant species, ranging from algae to the largest trees. It focuses on the physical structure of plants, their distinguishing characteristics, and the life processes taking place in them, such as growth and reproduction. Today, there are approximately 550,000 plant species being studied by botanists worldwide.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 3 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in biology Entry: Admission is based on Class 12 results Important dates: Students need to inquire with institutes and universities about application notifications and deadlines well in advance. Further studies: MSc in botany/biotechnology/biochemistry/microbiology/ bioinformatics/agriculture/environmental science/forestry or an MBA in environmental management

PLACES TO STUDY • University of Calcutta • University of Delhi

• University of Madras • University of Mumbai

Chemical Engineering Chemical engineering – a key branch of engineering – is the study of chemicals and the processes involved in their manufacture as well as conversion into other forms, such as plastic, fuels, and medicine. The principles of chemical engineering can be applied to solving environmental problems, such as waste and pollution. For example, by developing techniques for chemical treatment of waste to prevent it from causing air and water pollution.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 4 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, and maths Entry: Many universities and institutes accept JEE scores, but others may have their own entrance exams. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for JEE is in December and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Further studies: MTech/ME in environmental engineering/energy engineering or PGD/MBA in environmental management PLACES TO STUDY • Anna University, Chennai • Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi • Birla Institute of Technology and Science (Pilani, Goa, Hyderabad) • IIT (Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras, Roorkee) • NIT (Tiruchirapalli, Warangal, Calicut, Surathkal, Nagpur, Bhopal) • Manipal University, Karnataka • SRM University, Tamil Nadu

The Green Guide I 30-31

Civil Engineering Civil engineering – one of the oldest branches of engineering – studies various aspects of the natural environment, such as land, climate, and water supply, to enable students to plan, design, construct, and maintain infrastructure. This includes everything from the making of the roads and bridges we drive on and the dams that control floods and generate electricity to the network of pipes that deliver water to our homes.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 4 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, and maths Entry: Many universities and institutes accept JEE scores, but others may have their own entrance exams. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for JEE is in December and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Further studies: MTech/ME in civil engineering/electrical engineering/ environmental engineering/energy engineering or PGD/MBA in environmental management PLACES TO STUDY • Anna University, Chennai • Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi • Birla Institute of Technology and Science (Pilani, Goa, Hyderabad) • Delhi Technological University • IIT (Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras, Roorkee) • NIT (Tiruchirapalli, Warangal, Calicut, Surathkal, Nagpur, Bhopal) • Manipal University, Karnataka • Punjab Engineering College University, Chandigarh • SRM University, Tamil Nadu

Climate Science Climate science is the study of the climate in a place over long periods of time, usually more than 30 years. It takes a large view of the entire climate and weather scenario and looks at the determinants of climates and how they affect the environment. It covers ways of observing, computing, and analyzing data to explain existing climatic conditions and their impact, as well as predict future climates. The course also offers insights to natural occurrences, such as floods, windstorms, wildfires, and droughts that, have become increasingly common in our lives.

• Postgraduate course offered as an MSc or MTech in Climate Science • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in science or engineering with at least 60 per cent or equivalent. Entry: Many universities and institutes offering engineering programmes accept GATE scores, but others may have their own entrance exams. For MSc programmes, universities and institutes usually conduct their own entrance exams. Additionally, students may also need to appear for a Personal Interview before selection. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for GATE is in October and the exam is held in February. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Related course: • Meteorology: An atmospheric science, meteorology deals with studying and forecasting immediate weather conditions, such as temperature, rainfall, and impending natural phenomena, such as typhoons and cyclones. Although a quintessential component of climate science, in some universities and institutes it is offered as a separate course. PLACES TO STUDY • Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore – MTech in Climate Science • Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi – MSc Climate Science

The Green Guide I 32-33

• Teri University, New Delhi – MSc Climate Science and Policy • University of Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam – MSc Meteorology STUDY ABROAD • John Hopkins University, USA – MS in Energy Policy and Climate • University of Bern, Switzerland – MSc Climate Science • University of Sussex, UK – MSc Climate Change and Development GLOBAL WARMING The Earth’s atmosphere allows the Sun’s heat to pass through and enter its surface. Some of this heat is absorbed and the rest is radiated back. Ideally these surface radiations should also pass through the atmosphere. However, some gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, such as Carbon Dioxide (CO2), reflect this heat and re-radiate it on the Earth’s surface, causing an increase in the Earth’s surface temperature. As the level of these gases increases in the atmosphere, especially due to human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, more and more heat is getting retained, raising the temperature and making the climate hotter than before. This has caused a raging debate on global warming that threatens life on Earth, which cannot adapt to these conditions beyond a certain temperature.

Dairy Technology A course in dairy technology looks at the quality control and processing of milk for direct consumption as well as to make products, such as cheese, butter, and ice-cream. It gives a comprehensive insight to the workings of the dairy industry, such as the breeding and care of livestock, milk collection, processing, storage, packaging, distribution, and transportation.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 4 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, maths, and preferably biology

Entry: Many universities and institutes accept JEE scores, but others may also have their own entrance exams. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for JEE is in December and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Further studies: MTech in dairy technology or PGD/MBA in agribusiness management/rural management WHITE REVOLUTION In the 1970s, India witnessed the world’s biggest dairy development programme under the stellar leadership of social entrepreneur Dr Verghese Kurien. The movement transformed India into a milk-sufficient nation and one of the largest producers of milk worldwide. PLACES TO STUDY • Anand Agricultural University, Gujarat • Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries University, Bidar • Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur

Electrical Engineering

• National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal and Bangalore (*course is called “Dairy Engineering”) • West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata

Electrical engineering – a key branch of engineering – is the study of the technology behind electricity. How an electric current is generated, how it’s affected by gravity to create magnetic fields, and the ways in which it can power everything from large buildings to small devices. For example, how electricity manufactured and transmitted from a power station can be used to light up, heat or cool a building or how electricity generated by a battery can run a device like a mobile phone or a camera. In the field of environment, electrical engineering finds widespread application in designing technology that conserves electricity, such as power-saving electrical appliances and technology that can use renewable resources like sunlight, wind, and water to produce electricity.

The Green Guide I 34-35

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 4 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, and maths Entry: Many universities and institutes accept JEE scores, but others may also have their own entrance exams. Important dates: Usually, the application deadline for JEE is in December and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Related courses: • Electronic engineering: Sometimes offered together with electrical engineering, electronics, on its own, is the study of electrical components, such as electron tubes, transistors, resistors, inductors, and diodes that are used in designing electronic devices. • Power systems engineering: Usually offered at PG level, power systems engineering refers to the production, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electric power. Further studies: MTech/ME in electrical engineering/electronics engineering/ power systems engineering/energy engineering or PGD/MBA in energy/ environmental management PLACES TO STUDY • Anna University, Chennai – BE Electrical and Electronics Engineering, ME Power Systems Engineering • Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi – BTech Electrical Engineering, BTech Electronics Engineering, MTech Power Systems • Birla Institute of Technology and Science (Pilani, Goa, Hyderabad) – BE Electrical and Electronics Engineering • Delhi Technological University – BTech Electrical Engineering, MTech Power Systems • IIT Bombay, Madras – BTech Electrical Engineering, MTech Power Electronics and Power Systems • IIT Delhi, Kharagpur, Roorkee – BTech Electrical Engineering, MTech Power Systems

• • • • • • • • • • •

IIT Guwahati – BTech Electronics and Electrical Engineering IIT Kanpur – BTech Electrical Engineering Indian School of Mines (ISM), Dhanbad – MTech Power Systems Engineering Manipal University, Karnataka – BTech Electrical and Electronics Engineering NIT, Tiruchirapalli – BTech Electronics and Electrical Engineering, MTech Power Systems NIT, Warangal – BTech Electrical Engineering, MTech Power Systems Punjab Engineering College University, Chandigarh – BE Electrical Engineering SRM University, Tamil Nadu – BTech Electronics and Electrical Engineering, MTech Power Systems University of Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam – BE Electrical and Electronics Engineering, ME Power System and Automation University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun – MTech Power Systems and Industrial Drives Vellore Institute of Technology University, Tamil Nadu – BTech Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Energy Engineering Energy engineering – a relatively recent engineering discipline – aims at energy minimization, especially in the operation of buildings and manufacturing processes. It looks at ways, in which engineering can be used to design technology that can either accomplish more work using the same amount of energy, or produce the same amount of work using less energy. For example, how lighting, heating, and cooling systems in a building can be made more efficient by reducing the amount of energy they consume.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in electrical/electronic engineering or Master’s in physics, chemistry, or maths. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Many universities and institutes accept GATE scores, but others may also have their own entrance exams.

The Green Guide I 36-37

Important dates: Usually, the application deadline for GATE is in October and the exam is held in February. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Related courses: • Renewable energy engineering: Although a quintessential part of any energy engineering programme, it is also offered as a separate course by some universities and institutes. It focuses exclusively on the use of renewable natural resources, such as solar power, wind power, hydropower, and biomass to produce energy. • Energy/power management: Energy management looks at ways of managing the production and consumption of energy to save costs and boost efficiency. For example, how a power plant producing electricity can be planned and operated to avoid any wastage of the electric energy being generated and save operating costs. ENERGY CONSUMPTION TRENDS IN INDIA Renewable 3% Nuclear Hydro Oil 1% Gas Coal 0 Data: as of 2012

12% 20% 9% 10

55% 20

30

40

50

60

PLACES TO STUDY • Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, New Delhi – Integrated MTech – PhD program in Renewable Energy • Delhi Technological University – MTech Renewable Energy Technology • Great Lakes Institute of Management, Gurgaon – PG programme in Management (Energy) *work experience preferable • IIT Bombay – MTech Energy Systems • IIT Delhi – MTech Energy Studies, MTech Energy and Environmental Management • IIT Kharagpur – Offers various dual-degree programmes in Energy Engineering

• NIT Tiruchirapalli – MTech Energy Engineering • National Power Training Institute (NPTI), Faridabad – MBA Power Management • Management Development Institute, Gurgaon – 15-month Executive Postgraduate Programme in Energy Management *requires at least 5 years of relevant work experience • Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University, Gujarat – MTech Energy Systems and Technology, focused on Solar Energy • SRM University, Tamil Nadu – MTech Solar Energy • Symbiosis Institute of International Business, Pune – MBA Energy and Environment • Teri University, Delhi – MTech Renewable Energy Engineering and Management • University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun – MBA Power Management, MTech Renewable Energy Engineering • Vellore Institute of Technology University, Tamil Nadu – MTech Energy and Environmental Engineering

Environmental Engineering Environmental engineering – a niche specialization in engineering – focuses on the implications of environmental pollution and aims at improving environmental quality. It applies principles of science as well as engineering to address issues, such as waste water management, air pollution control, industrial hygiene, and public health. Students are trained to determine the causes of pollution in a particular place, evaluate its damages, and find solutions to resolve the problem. For example, determining air pollution levels caused by factory smoke and devising cleaner technology that will help to reduce smoke emissions in the future. .

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in related disciplines, such as civil, chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent.

The Green Guide I 38-39

Entry: Many universities and institutes accept GATE scores, but others may have their own entrance exams. Important dates: Usually, application deadline for GATE is in October and the exam is held in February. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. PLACES TO STUDY • Anna University, Chennai • Delhi Technological University • IIT (Bombay, Delhi, Kanpur, Kharagpur)

• Manipal University, Karnataka • NIT (Tiruchirapalli, Warangal, Surathkal, Calicut, Nagpur, Bhopal)

Environmental Science Environmental science – a multidisciplinary field – applies the principles of physical and social sciences as well as humanities to study the relationship between an organism and its environment and how each affects the other. Students learn to examine the role of the environment and detect, evaluate, and solve environmental problems, keeping in mind both scientific as well as social factors. It lays special emphasis on how human beings interact with the environment and the effects of human activities on it. For example, how population growth impacts natural resources and ecosystems.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Graduates in related disciplines, such as botany, zoology, and geography. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 50–60 per cent. Entry: Admission is usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. Important dates: Students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notifications, deadlines, and entrance exam dates well in advance. Related courses: • Environmental studies: Although a quintessential part of any environmental science programme, it is also offered as a separate course at some

universities and institutes. It studies the social, political, and historical features of environmental problems. For example, it examines how an oil spill disaster affects the economy of a country and the life of people living in the affected area. What policies and regulations exist or can be framed to penalize perpetrators. What measures can be taken to tackle the issue in an effective way and what steps can be taken to prevent an oil spill in future. • Environmental engineering (see p. 38) PLACES TO STUDY • Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Maharashtra – MSc Environmental Science • Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi – MSc Environmental Science • Osmania University, Hyderabad – MSc Environmental Science • Teri University, New Delhi – MSc Environmental Studies and Resource Management • University of Calcutta – MSc Environmental Science

• University of Delhi MSc Environmental Science • University of Kerala – MSc Environmental Science • University of Madras – MSc Environmental Science • University of Mumbai – MSc Environmental Science • University of Mysore – MSc Environmental Science • University of Pondicherry – MSc Environmental Science • University of Pune – MSc Environmental Science

Fishery Science Fishery science – a branch of agriculture – is the science behind cultivating and harvesting fish, processing them for consumption, and marketing the produce. Students learn about fish species – the conditions in which they thrive, their distinguishing characteristics, diseases that affect them, and their medical treatment. They also learn ways of processing fish, like refrigeration and freezing, and packaging and marketing it. The course also covers ways of conserving fish populations, for example, by controlling overfishing and pollution of the underwater environment.

The Green Guide I 40-41

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 4 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, and biology Entry: Admission is based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. In addition to an entrance exam, some universities and institutes may also consider Class 12 results. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) conducts an all-India entrance exam to fill 15 per cent of the seats at affiliated agricultural universities offering this course in different states. Important dates: Application deadline for the ICAR exam is in February and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students must inquire with individual universities and institutes well in advance. Further studies: MSc in fishery science/marine science/zoology. PLACES TO STUDY • Central Institute of Fisheries, Nautical and Engineering Training, Kochi • Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand • Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries University, Bidar • Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi

• Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University • Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Nagapattinam • University of Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam • West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata

Forestry Forestry – a branch of agriculture – introduces students to the science of growing forests, managing forest resources, such as trees and wildlife, and safeguarding them against dangers, such as excessive logging and fires. Students learn about tree species that make up a forest, their distinguishing characteristics, and conditions in which they thrive. The course also covers the environmental and economic significance of forests. For example, how they help in mitigating climate change and soil erosion and how forest resources are used to yield goods, such as paper and medicines.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in forestry or related disciplines, such as botany, agriculture, and horticulture. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Admission is based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) conducts an all-India entrance exam to fill 25 per cent of the seats at affiliated agricultural universities offering this course in different states. Important dates: Application deadline for the ICAR exam is in February and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students must inquire with individual universities and institutes well in advance. Related course: • Forest management: A niche subject under forestry, forest management is occasionally offered as a separate course that focuses on developing and conserving resources, such as trees and wildlife, while ensuring that these are utilized in an eco-friendly manner. For example, developing ecotourism (see p. 68) in forests while ensuring that the tourist activities are not harming the forests in any way. Admission is based on CAT scores. FOREST COVER IN INDIA

90 80

77.5%

70 60 50 40 30 20 8.9%

10

9.7% 2.5%

1.2%

0 Non-forest

Data: as of 2014

Degraded forest

Open forest

Moderately dense forest

Very dense forest

The Green Guide I 42-43

PLACES TO STUDY • Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar – MSc Forestry • Forest Research Institute (FRI) University, Dehradun – MSc Forestry • Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal – PG Diploma in Forest Management

• Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – MSc Forestry • Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore – MSc Forestry • University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore – MSc Forestry • Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh – MSc Forestry

Geography Geography is the study of Earth. Essentially a science, it has two broad branches – physical geography and human geography. Physical geography is the main focus of a science course in geography. It studies Earth’s physical features such as its varied landscapes like mountains and deserts and their characteristics such as soil, water, climatic conditions, and occurrence of natural phenomenon like earthquakes, volcanoes, and typhoons. Human geography is at the core of an arts course in geography. It focuses more on the inhabitants of the land, especially human beings, and how the physical geography of a place affects and in turn is affected by their way of life.

• Undergraduate course offered as a BSc as well as a BA in Geography • Course duration: 3 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in geography, and also science and maths for BSc Entry: Admissions are usually based on Class 12 results Important dates: Students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notifications and deadlines well in advance. Further studies: MSc/MA in geography or a related subject, such as anthropology, geology, and environmental science

A BRIEF HISTORY OF GEOGRAPHY The Prussian geographer, naturalist, and explorer Alexander von Humboldt (1769–1869) and the German geographer Karl Ritter (1779–1859) are the founding fathers of modern geography. Their research was instrumental in the development of the discipline. In 1830, the Royal Geographic Society was founded in England. It was among the foremost bodies in the field and a few decades later, in 1888, the National Geographic Society was founded in USA, which made ground-breaking efforts to popularize the discipline around the world. PLACES TO STUDY • Aligarh Muslim University, UP – BA Geography • Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi – BA, BSc Geography • Presidency University, Kolkata – BA, BSc Geography • University of Calcutta – BA Geography • University of Delhi – BA, BSc Geography • University of Kerala – BSc Geography • University of Madras – BA, BSc Geography

Horticulture Horticulture – a branch of agriculture – is the study of plant cultivation. Students learn about various plants, such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers that are cultivated mainly for human consumption. The course covers the distinguishing characteristics of different species of these plants and conditions in which they thrive. For example, the different types of roses that are found in nature and methods for soil preparation, plant breeding, crop production, and harvesting that can boost yields. Apart from this, students are also taught about methods of processing these plants for consumption, the ways in which they are used – for example as food or to beautify gardens – and how they can be marketed.

The Green Guide I 44-45

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in agriculture or related disciplines, such as forestry and botany. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Admission is based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) conducts an all-India entrance exam to fill 25 per cent of the seats at affiliated universities offering this course in different states. Important dates: Application deadline for the ICAR exam is usually in February and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. GREEN REVOLUTION Food security is a paramount concern for countries like India that have a large population to feed and a history of famine. The Green Revolution was a worldwide initiative founded by the American scientist Norman Ernest Borlaug to increase agricultural productivity and address food security. It came to India in the 1960s, and prospered under the leadership of geneticist MS Swaminathan. Crop production was boosted by increasing the area under cultivation, introduction of high yielding seed varieties, and improving irrigation. The movement was a huge success. PLACES TO STUDY • Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar • Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand • Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana • Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore • University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore • Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh

Marine Science

Marine science – also known as oceanology or oceanography – is the study of oceans and seas. It is an enquiry into the origin of these water bodies, their physical features – sediments and structures like trenches, mounts, and ridges found on the ocean floor – and the chemical composition of their waters. It also examines the natural phenomena associated with these water bodies, such as ocean currents, water waves, cyclones, and tsunamis. Apart of this, it studies the flora and fauna comprising marine life and the problem of pollution plaguing the marine environment.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in chemistry. Many institutes also accept graduates in related disciplines, such as zoology, botany, biochemistry, or microbiology, provided the undergraduate course includes a chemistry component. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Admissions are usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. Important dates: Students must inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notifications, deadlines, and entrance exam dates well in advance. Related courses: • Marine biology: Although a key component of any marine science course, many institutes and universities offer marine biology as a separate course. It focuses on the different types of organisms living in marine water bodies. • Fishery science (see p. 40) WORST OIL SPILLS IN HISTORY Oil spills – from tankers, offshore platforms and drilling rigs, and wells – are among the worst forms of marine pollution. Throughout history, millions of gallons of oil have been spilled into seas and oceans. One of the worst oil spills occurred in Kuwait, where more than 240 million gallons was spilled into the Persian Gulf in 1991, during the Gulf War.

The Green Guide I 46-47

PLACES TO STUDY • Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala – MSc Marine biology MSc Oceanography • Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi – MSc Biological Oceanography and Biodiversity, MSc Physical Oceanography and Ocean Modelling

• University of Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam – MSc Marine Biology and Fisheries • University of Calcutta – MSc Marine Science • University of Goa – MSc Marine Science • University of Madras – MSc Ocean Science and Technology • University of Pondicherry – MSc Marine Biology

Mechanical Engineering Mechanical engineering – one of the broadest disciplines in engineering – is about designing, constructing, and operating a machine. It ranges from the design and construction of small, individual machine parts like a gear or an axle to large vehicles like a car or an aircraft. In the environmental arena, mechanical engineering finds widespread application in developing technology that can harness energy from renewable sources like sunlight, wind, and waves. A wellknown example is solar photovoltaic (PV) technology that generates electricity using sunlight.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 4 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, and maths Entry: Many universities and institutes accept JEE scores, but others may have their own entrance exams. Important dates: Usually, JEE application deadline is in December and the exam is held in April. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Further studies: MTech/ME in mechanical engineering/environmental engineering/energy engineering or PGD/MBA in environmental management

PLACES TO STUDY • Anna University, Chennai • Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi • Birla Institute of Technology and Science (Pilani, Goa, Hyderabad) • Delhi Technological University • IIT (Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras, Roorkee) • Indian School of Mines (ISM), Dhanbad • NIT (Tiruchirapalli, Warangal, Calicut, Surathkal, Nagpur, Bhopal) • Manipal University, Karnataka • Punjab Engineering College University, Chandigarh • SRM University, Tamil Nadu • University of Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam • Vellore Institute of Technology University, Tamil Nadu

Microbiology Microbiology is the study of microorganisms or microbes, such as bacteria and viruses, that are invisible to the naked eye. Students observe them using instruments such as the microscope. They study their physical structure, distinguishing characteristics, and inherent processes like, growth, digestion, and reproduction. Microbes are found everywhere – air, soil, water, plants, animals, and human beings – and microbiology examines how they affect the environment they inhabit. For example, the diseases they cause in plants and animals.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 3 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 55–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, and biology Entry: Admissions are either based on Class 12 results, or on both Class 12 results and an entrance exam, usually the State-level Common Entrance Test (CET) Important dates: Usually, the application deadline for CET is in March and the exam is held between April-May in different states. Further studies: MSc in a specialized area of microbiology, such as industrial or medical microbiology or a MSc in biotechnology/bioinformatics/biochemistry

The Green Guide I 48-49

LOUIS PASTEUR The noted Frenchman, Louis Pasteur, is known as the father of microbiology for his ground-breaking discoveries in the field. Pasteur is most famous for discovering the eponymous principle of “pasteurization” – heating liquids to high temperatures and then quickly cooling and packaging them to prevent spoilage. He also discovered the principles of microbial fermentation and vaccination. His vaccines for diseases, like rabies and anthrax, have saved countless lives world over. PLACES TO STUDY • University of Andhra Pradesh, Vishakhapatnam • University of Calcutta • University of Delhi

• • • •

University of Kerala University of Madras University of Mumbai University of Pune

Remote Sensing Remote sensing is the science of making various measurements of the Earth using sensors on airplanes or satellites. These sensors collect data in the form of images, which are integrated with a computer-based tool called the Geographic Information System (GIS). This system uses the images to map and analyze various features on Earth, ranging from population density to availability of resources, such as water, forests, and land suitable for agriculture.

• Postgraduate course • Course duration: Usually 2 years Eligibility: Preferably, graduates in related disciplines, such as electrical and electronics engineering, civil engineering, agricultural engineering, or MSc in computer science or geography. Minimum percentage requirement ranges from 55–60 per cent. Entry: Most universities and institutes accept GATE scores, but they may also conduct their own entrance exams.

• Important dates: Usually, application deadline for GATE is in October and the exam is held in February. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Places to Study • Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam • Anna University, Chennai • Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi • Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun

Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry Veterinary science deals with the health of animals. Primarily, it is the study of various animal diseases, their diagnosis and treatment, as well as prevention. It is usually offered together with animal husbandry, which refers to the care of farm animals by humans for profit. For example, the breeding, feeding, and management of livestock and poultry to yield milk, meat, and eggs.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 5 years (including a half-year internship) Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in English, physics, chemistry, and biology Entry: Admission is usually based on entrance exams conducted by individual universities and institutes. The Veterinary Council of India conducts an All India Common Entrance Examination (AICEE) for filling up 15 per cent of the seats at affiliated veterinary colleges in different states. Important dates: Application deadline for AICEE is usually in March and the exam is held in May. For other exams, students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes. Further studies: Master’s in a related veterinary discipline, such as animal anatomy, dairy science and technology, animal economics, and animal genetics and breeding

The Green Guide I 50-51

PLACES TO STUDY • Anand Agricultural University, Gujarat • Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand • Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries University, Bidar • Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur

• Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai • Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, Puducherry • West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata

Zoology Zoology – a key branch of biology – is the study of animals, both living and extinct. It looks into the origins of animal life, its classification, distinguishing characteristics, distribution, and stages of development. It also studies the body structure of different animals, their habits, behaviours, interactions, and the various life processes, such as respiration, reproduction, digestion, and growth, taking place in them.

• Undergraduate course • Course duration: 3 years Eligibility: 10+2 with at least 50–60 per cent in physics, chemistry, and biology Entry: Admissions are usually based on Class 12 results Important dates: Students need to inquire with individual universities and institutes about application notifications and deadlines well in advance. Related course: • Wildlife science: Mostly offered at PG level, this course zooms into wildlife conservation and focuses on research, monitoring wildlife populations and habitats and ways of mitigating the threat of species extinction. Further studies: MSc in zoology/wildlife science/marine science/ environmental science

BIRDMAN OF INDIA Observing birds through the naked eye, using visual aids like binoculars or telescopes, or by closely listening to their sounds is a popular recreational activity among nature lovers worldwide. Dr Salim Ali (1896-1987), also known as the “Birdman of India”, was among the first scientists to carry out systematic surveys of birds in India and overseas. His research was significant in the development of Ornithology – a branch of zoology dedicated to the study of birds. PLACES TO STUDY • Amity Institute of Wildlife Science, Noida, NCR – MSc Wildlife Science • National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bengaluru – MSc in Wildlife Biology and Conservation • University of Calcutta – BSc Zoology

• • • •

University of Delhi – BSc Zoology University of Mumbai – BSc Zoology University of Pune – BSc Zoology Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun – MSc Wildlife Science

The Green Guide I 52-53

WHAT TO PURSUE? A career checklist for students

General pointers ✿ Deciding on a career can be a dilemma for students. Here are some factors you may want to consider: ✓ Subjects you study: Sometimes, the subjects we study at school can help us make an initial decision about what we will not enjoy. For example, if you are always struggling with maths and science and don’t enjoy these subjects, careers that need a science or engineering background may not be the best options. This section lists the courses required in different careers. ✓ Aptitude tests and career counselling: These are often conducted in the higher classes to assess students on various parameters, such as verbal ability, numeric ability and logical reasoning, so that counsellors can advise them on possible career paths they can choose and the relevant courses for these. ✓ Alumni: Ask around for people from your institute or university who work in the environmental field and try to get in touch with them for doubts and concerns. This section lists various employment avenues for each career. You can use this information to locate relevant people. ✓ Asking parents and teachers: Having observed us over a long period of time, our teachers and parents may know a thing or two about what may interest us; also, discussing our doubts with them may be useful. ✓ Judging your personality: An important question that we need to ask ourselves when thinking of careers is our disposition. Do we like working in teams or do we enjoy seclusion and concentrated work such as research? Do we enjoy being thrust into the limelight, or do we prefer working in the background? Do we like objective facts and figures or do we enjoy subjective literature? Do we want a job involving travel or do we prefer working out of one location? This section gives an overview of the general nature of work in each career. Reading it will help you understand if the work basically interests you and suits your personality or not. ✓ Read and research: New developments are happening all the time and the environmental field is especially prone to these. Read stories in newspapers,

magazines, and the internet to keep yourself abreast of what’s happening, so you know more about the organizations and people in this field, the work they do, and if it interests you. This section carries inputs from different professionals discussing their work. ✿ Build your resume: If you are interested in environmental causes, then even before you consider a career try volunteering with an environmental NGO, joining or even creating an environmental group in your school or college, and participating in events based on environmental themes, for example, essay-writing competitions and debates on environmental topics. College students should also try and secure internships with organizations working in the environmental field, during their holidays. This will help you meet like-minded students and professionals working in the environmental field and build your resume. Most importantly, based on your experience, you can determine if you would like to work in this field. About careers

✿ Broadly speaking, in most organizations, jobs can be categorized into Human

Resources (responsible for recruiting and attending to the employees of a company and their needs); Finance (responsible for allocation of resources); Operations (responsible for running the business); and Sales and Marketing (responsible for bringing in the money by promoting the company’s business). Additionally, organizations may also have jobs in Corporate Communications (that handle the media on behalf of the company) and Research and Development (that carries out research to help the organization create new products or services or improve upon existing products and services). ✿ The size of the organization and the nature of its business determine how many of these jobs exist and the prominence they enjoy. For example, in a recruitment firm, human resource is at the heart of the business, so this role has more opportunity than others. Similarly, in a media organization generating content, such as news stories enjoys greater prominence. ✿ Presently, in the environmental arena in India, a number of jobs exist in operations and in sales and marketing, especially in fields, such as renewable energy, waste management, environmental architecture, environmental auditing, environmental consultancy, and agriculture, and there is a great demand for qualifications in science and engineering.

The Green Guide I 54-55 ✿ Academic careers, especially in science and engineering require long years of

study and research. Although this book introduces students to courses, both undergraduate and postgraduate, many academic set-ups require candidates with PhDs ✿ Postings and travel: Many careers in environment, such as ecotourism, forestry, wildlife conservation, and other social sector jobs require frequent travel, quite often to remote places and one may even get postings in quaint towns. Hence, a bit of an adventurous spirit may prove helpful. ✿ Salaries: Environmental careers are still nascent in India and many jobs are not extremely high-paying, especially in the beginning. However, since it’s a relatively new and unexplored field, the chances of growth and making a name for oneself are also high, and salaries tend to increase with exposure and experience.

Green Careers

The Green Guide I 56-57

CAREERS IN AGRICULTURE Although the term “agriculture” is popularly associated with farming crops, such as wheat, rice, and lentils, it also includes the cultivation of a wide range of other resources, such as livestock, fish, and forests, to meet human needs. Hence, agriculture is a broad-ranging field that offers many career options for students.

Agribusiness Thousands of years ago, agriculture made humans settle down in one place as they learnt how to grow their own food and didn’t have to wander in search of it. However, as societies progressed, agriculture became a business as people started to barter agricultural produce for clothing and utensils. Today, millions of tonnes of agricultural produce, such as wheat, rice, and pulses, is sold for consumption and export. Several million tonnes of it are processed to make a large range of food products we find in our homes, such as tomato ketchup, juices, and jams. Agribusiness is thriving and many large companies have entered this field, providing lucrative career opportunities.

Course: Agribusiness management (see p. 16), agriculture (see p. 23), dairy technology (see p. 33), rural management (see p. 16) Nature of work: Jobs in agribusiness are multifaceted. Some key roles include planning, which involves determining the company’s business development goals for the year; procurement, which involves sourcing for agricultural land and raw materials such as seeds and fertilizers; production, which is about supervising farming activities such as planting, irrigation and harvesting to ensure that the yield meets the company’s needs; processing that oversees the production of agricultural end products, mainly food items; packaging, that looks into the various ways in which agricultural produce is packed, such as in paper bags or cans; distribution, that ensures that the produce is delivered to the people selling it; and sales and marketing, which devises various ways to sell agricultural commodities and make money. Many of these roles involve travel to rural destinations to visit manufacturing facilities, such as farms and factories, where one has to interact with people on the ground, such as farmers and local government officials, to address issues like production output, supply, and operational efficiency.

Employment avenues: Mainly national and multinational companies dealing in agricultural commodities, ranging from raw materials to food products.

SPOTLIGHT

Milkshake, mithai, ice-cream, plain cream, paneer, cheese, butter...there are countless ways in which the average Indian household swears by its love for milk. After cereals, milk and milk products make up a bulk of the monthly household expenditure on food in India. With the number of urban households growing by R S Sodhi Managing Director, Amul more than three times in the next 50 years, we anticipate a sharp rise in the demand for dairy products. This growing market for milk and dairy products has led to a rapid rise in the organized dairy industry in India and the demand for qualified manpower has increased multi-fold. Graduates trained in rural management provide a large part of the managerial talent pool that has been instrumental in taking the industry to great heights. Qualified veterinarians are extremely sought after for animal breeding and welfare programmes that bolster the quality of cattle and milk produced, and dairy technologists constitute a bulk of the technical manpower that runs the industry. Students graduating in subjects, such as microbiology, nutrition science, and food technology are also in great demand. The Indian dairy sector is indeed a promising career for students interested in agribusiness. In a glassful of milk lie opportunities and a bright career, even for those who may have shied away from it as children!

Agricultural Finance Agricultural finance in India mainly refers to the credit extended to farmers to invest in agriculture. In the years following independence, money lenders were the most important source of agricultural credit. The sector was disorganized, and there were several instances of farmer exploitation. However, over the years, money lenders have been substituted with institutional bodies, such as cooperatives and commercial banks.

The Green Guide I 58-59

Course: Agriculture (see p. 23), agribusiness management (see p. 16) Nature of work: Much like agribusiness, jobs in agriculture finance also entail rural exposure in order to take stock of the financial situation of farmers, local businesses as well as agriculture corporations operating in these areas before providing them financial assistance. Apart from sanctioning loans, the job may also involve monitoring the utilization of funds to ensure that the money is being used to boost farmland productivity. Employment avenues: Mainly national and multinational banks working in agriculture finance; agriculture insurance companies

Agriculture Research Research is a very important domain within agriculture, with a number of bodies engaged in scientific research and studies, mainly on ways to boost productivity in agriculture. Today, close to 30,000 scientists and more than one lakh supporting staff are engaged in agricultural research in India, making it one of the most extensive research systems in the world.

Course: Agriculture (see p. 23), dairy technology (see p. 33), biotechnology (see p. 28), biochemistry (see p. 26), microbiology (see p. 48), remote sensing (see p. 49) Nature of work: Research roles involve collecting data on agriculture through surveys, field samples, and laboratory tests, analyzing and reporting it. Research subjects range from determining the quality of land and raw materials, such as seeds and fertilizers to the quantity and quality of agricultural produce, the effect of the environment on agricultural productivity and consumption patterns. Employment avenues: Mainly national and international bodies engaged in agricultural research, such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics; research departments at agricultural universities. GENETICALLY MODIFIED (GM) CROPS Crops that have special traits introduced in them through genetic engineering are called GM Crops. For example, if a crop is not naturally resistant to a particular disease, genetic engineering makes it resistant. However, expert opinion is divided on GM Crops as some people feel that more research needs to be undertaken on the risks associated with such crops.

SPOTLIGHT

I have always been fascinated by plants and studied agriculture science after school. The desire to learn more propelled me into research and I’ve now been an agricultural scientist for 20 years. Following my studies in India, I received Manash Chatterjee an MPhil in Plant Breeding at the Cambridge Founder and Director, University in the UK and then a PhD in Molecular Bench Bio Biology and Genetics at the John Innes Centre, Norwich. My first break in agricultural research came when I got a post-doctoral position at the Salk Institute of Biological Studies, San Diego. Professor Francis Crick, one of the three people who discovered the DNA, was the President of the Institute and the opportunity to meet him was one of my greatest moments. A close second was cloning and naming a gene DAG, meaning spots in Hindi, during the course of my PhD, when I was working on a mutant plant that had white leaves with green spots! Experts predict that food production will need to double in order to feed a global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 – nearly 1.7 billion in India alone. Agricultural research offers an opportunity to meet this challenge. The prospects look bright and especially promising for those with a curious mind and a seeking, indomitable spirit.

Fisheries With a coastline of more than 8,000 kms and a large network of inland waterways, comprising rivers, canals, backwaters, and creeks, fishing is a major industry in India and it provides employment to more than 14 million people.

Course: Fishery science (see p. 40), marine science (see p. 46) Nature of work: At an operational level, the work in fisheries involves cultivating and harvesting fish, preserving, processing, and packaging it for consumption. Businesses include traditional commercial fishing, involving fishermen catching bait in small boats and large-scale fishing operations involving deep-sea vessels.

The Green Guide I 60-61

However, aquaculture or cultivating specific species, such as prawns and shrimp for trade, in fish breeding farms is increasingly replacing unorganized inland and marine fishing. Other roles include researching on various species of fish for the trade market, determining suitable living conditions for them in order to increase breeding and diagnosing and treating infections. Employment avenues: Companies engaged in aquaculture for the domestic and export market offer attractive employment opportunities for operations as well as research in fishery; public bodies, such as the Fishery Survey of India offer opportunities in fishery research and monitoring. There are also various opportunities for entrepreneurship, especially in aquaculture.

Forestry Forests are a vital national resource and contribute not just to environmental well-being, but also to the economic wealth of the country. Hence, preservation as well as regeneration of forest resources offers tremendous employment opportunities to those interested in contributing towards the upkeep of forests in the country.

Relevant courses: Forestry (see p. 41), botany (see p. 29), zoology (see p. 51) Nature of work: Any work in forestry is bound to involve travel to forested areas, if not a posting. Jobs include observing and recording forest cover and identifying the species of trees, plants, and other vegetation found in them for scientific research; monitoring commercial activities in forested areas, such as ecotourism and timbering, to ensure that they do not endanger the forest; and devising ways of protecting forests against threats like illegal mining, excessive logging, and forest fires. Since forests are also home to wildlife, jobs often also involve wildlife conservation. Employment avenues: Presently, a majority of job opportunities exist in the public sector, with organizations affiliated to the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, such as the Forest Survey of India and the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education. Opportunities also exist with NGOs engaged in forest and wildlife conservation. In the private sector, companies using forest resources, mainly timber, hire candidates from forestry background.

Career in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery

With advancing medical technology the lifespan of people has increased. However, they are falling victim to lifestyle diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and depression. While allopathic medicine is a widespread choice of people looking to cure their health, an increasing population is also resorting to Ayurveda. Its nature-based remedies do not cause acute side-effects, and it is sometimes known to cure even life-threatening diseases like cancer.

Course: Ayurvedic medicine and surgery (see p. 24) Note* After obtaining a degree, students need to register at their respective state councils under Indian Medical Central Council Act. To practise across the country, they need to register with the Central Council of Indian Medicine. Nature of work: An Ayurvedic practitioner functions like a regular doctor, understanding patients’ medical problems and history, recommending medical tests if required, and then suggesting a cure. These cures are often holistic, in that, apart from medication, changes in lifestyle and diet are recommended and may include therapies like massage and exercises. To cure ailments like ulcers and gall bladder stones, surgery is also recommended. Work in this field also includes researching on ayurvedic cures, such as studying medicinal benefits of plant and animal matter, and teaching at academic institutions offering courses in this discipline. Employment avenues: Hospitals, private clinics, health resorts, and spas offering ayurvedic treatments; ayurveda departments at universities and institutes; national and multinational companies making ayurvedic medicines and cosmetics.

SPOTLIGHT

Dr Sunil Joshi Ayurvedic Practitioner

From the tulsi to turmeric and onions that are commonplace in Indian households, natural remedies abound in our everyday lives. When a child falls down, applying turmeric on his wound and letting him witness its curing powers can be the start to lifelong interest in Ayurvedic medicine. In fact, this is how I grew

The Green Guide I 62-63

up to develop an interest in this field – my family, which has many ayurvedic professionals, would always prefer a natural treatment.   I have been an ayurvedic practitioner for over 25 years now. I work at the government hospital in Uttarakhand, run my own clinic, and also teach Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery to students at the local university. Every day I see about 300 patients and many times I have witnessed the ability of natural remedies to cure even the most life-threatening diseases.   Ayurveda emphasizes on a healthy lifestyle that is best possible when one’s surroundings are green and fresh. The air is rich in oxygen and breathing in such air relieves nervous tension. I grow around 50 types of medicinal plants in a small garden, meditate daily, and regularly perform pranayam (breathing exercises). Ayurveda has deeply enriched my own health.   The history of western medicine is only a few hundred years old, but man has existed for thousands of years by making use of natural remedies. For me, Ayurveda is about unravelling these natural miracles. (as told to the author)

Career in Carbon Finance The Kyoto Protocol, which came into force in 2005, made it important for member countries to explore ways of reducing emissions of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs), such as Carbon Dioxide (Co2) that cause global warming. This led to the development of a new branch of environmental finance known as Carbon Finance. It was estimated that reducing one ton of Co2 emissions can cost from $15 up to $100 in developed countries. However, this can be achieved at a cost of $1 to $4 in developing countries. Hence, developed nations began investing in project-based emission reductions in developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, creating a huge market and lucrative career opportunities in Carbon Finance.

Courses: Environmental management (see p. 19), environmental economics (see p. 18), environmental engineering (see p. 38) Nature of work: Jobs in carbon finance involve researching ways of reducing GHG emissions, accounting the GHG emissions of a business initiative, such as

a power plant, so it qualifies as a low carbon-intensive project. And pitching and selling carbon credits to interested buyers, such as businesses in developed countries that are bound by the Kyoto Protocol to reduce their GHG emissions. Employment Avenues: Investment and Development banks that provide funding for low carbon-intensive projects, such as the World Bank which created the world’s first carbon fund; companies investing in low carbon-intensive businesses, such as renewable energy; consulting firms working in the environmental sector that offer guidance on carbon finance. Related career: Renewable energy (see p. 83), climate science (see p. 65), environmental consultancy (see p. 74) PLACES TO STUDY A handful of institutes and universities in India and abroad offer specialized courses in Carbon Finance: • University of Edinburgh, UK – MSc in Carbon Finance • Carbon Management School, New Delhi – Certificate courses in Carbon Finance • Amity, Noida – Distance certificate programmes in Carbon Finance • IIM Ahmedabad and Lucknow – offer Carbon Finance as part of their PG programme in Agribusiness Management

SPOTLIGHT

I graduated in environmental engineering from the Delhi Technological University in 2006. The Kyoto Protocol had come into force the previous year, giving a new impetus to climate change. I got deeply interested in this field. So I researched the options, spoke to a number of Rohit Lohia people and finally settled on pursuing carbon Director, Climate-Secure finance. It was a time when early innovators Services were making their mark in the field. My first break in the field was with a consulting firm where I was part of a small but passionate team. Here I learnt the ropes, the “ins and outs” of the business. But carbon finance was never the core focus of the firm and

The Green Guide I 64-65

soon I wanted more. That’s when I joined a company that was rooted in this business. It helped me build my knowledge and expertise, and offered excellent opportunities for career progression.   By 2013, I was ready to become an entrepreneur. It has now been two years since I started my own environmental consulting firm offering advisory services in carbon finance. Although I had to endure initial risks, I’m really glad that I didn’t settle for conventional wisdom but chose to tread my own path. It has given me a true sense of the freedom that stems from doing what you like. (as told to the author)

CAREERS IN CLIMATE

Climate refers to the long-term weather in a particular place – is it mostly hot or mostly cold, does it generally experience heavy rainfall, or is it mostly dry over a reasonably long period of time? The climate prevailing in a particular place has a huge impact on its environment, such as the plants and animals found in it, the type of land, and the ways human live. For example, rainforests are only found in places that have extremely heavy rainfall, polar bears can only thrive in icy-cold climates, and Eskimos living in cold climates have a different lifestyle from that of the bushmen of the Kalahari desert. In recent years, the climate has come under the spotlight worldwide, mainly due to the talk surrounding global warming. The climate on Earth is becoming increasingly hotter, as evidenced in the melting ice cover on the planet, rising sea level, rise in the temperature on the Earth’s surface and in the oceans. These conditions are threatening life on Earth in many ways – many species of plants and animals face extinction and many countries are faced with the danger of sinking under the rising water levels on the planet. As the threat increases, countries around the world, including India, are making efforts to curtail global warming, leading to the emergence of career options in this field.

Climate Change Climate change is a change in the long-term weather of a place. For example, if over time a place that is usually cool becomes generally warmer, it is considered to have undergone a climate change. In the present context, climate change

refers to the change in the general climate on Earth due to global warming. As more evidence emerges in its favour, countries around the world are seeking ways to combat this environmental threat. On 30 June 2008 India launched its National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), which outlines various measures that the country will take to mitigate the danger, for example, by promoting the use of renewable solar energy, conserving water, promoting waste management, and protecting the country’s green cover. The rising consciousness on climate change and steps being taken to address the issue has led to the emergence of various career options in this field.

Course: Climate science (see p. 32), remote sensing (see p. 49) Nature of work: Many jobs in climate change are research-based, involving the development and use of complex climate models for which collection, analysis, and interpretation of data on weather conditions, such as wind, rainfall, and temperature in a particular place is required. This helps to determine effects like an increase in the average annual temperature, dwindling population of certain native plant and animal species, or rising sea levels. Research findings are developed based on models to predict the future climate in a place and compile reports on climate change. These reports are then used by governments and industry to formulate long-term strategies, such as the NAPCC to tackle climate change. Other jobs include academic roles, involving training of professionals in this field. Employment avenues: Consultancy firms engaged in projects on climate change; environmental NGOs; national and international bodies engaged in addressing climate change, such as those under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Related career: Carbon finance (see p. 63)

SPOTLIGHT

RK Pachauri Climate Change Scientist

I was born in Nainital and spent the most beautiful years of my childhood there – surrounded by lush forests abounding in wildlife – conditions which seem like a lost dream now. The fascination with nature that I developed then has stayed with me throughout my life.

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In the mid-1980s when I was researching on energy policy it became clear to me that the energy cycle, as I knew it, had a largely harmful impact on the environment, as did our patterns of production and consumption. Then I got into a study of climate change, which gave me an even deeper sense of foreboding. In January 1989, I organized a major international conference on climate change, where we were able to attract the world’s best scientists working in the field. It was a humbling feeling to realize how little I knew. So I decided to study further and deeper in this field, and have been fixed on it ever since. Today, students have a wealth of information available to them and easy access to knowledge. It is a very different situation from when I was in school. They have to be inspired and motivated by it to address climate change – one of the biggest challenges facing humanity and all living species today.

Meteorology Both climate and weather are atmospheric conditions. While climate change is more about the long term effects of changing weather, meteorology helps in determining immediate weather conditions, like impending rainfall and temperature, which have a significant impact on economic activities and day-to-day life.

Course: Climate science (p. 32) Nature of work: Jobs in meteorology are mainly research roles that involve collecting scientific data on the atmosphere that can be used to forecast the weather, measure air pollution, and determine trends in the Earth’s climate, such as global warming and ozone depletion. Employment avenues: Weather research and broadcasting stations; government bodies under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change and the Ministry of Earth Sciences, such as the Indian Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology; public and private companies engaged in businesses related to agriculture and aviation that require regular inputs on weather conditions.

Career in Ecotourism Ecotourism is about promoting travel to ecological destinations, mainly wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. It aims to boost economic growth in such places while preserving the natural environment and safeguarding the culture as well as interests of the local community. India, with its natural bounty, is a haven for ecotourism and the field has gained notable momentum in the recent past.

Courses: A course in tourism, preferably, supplemented by environmental courses, such as botany (see p. 29), zoology (see p. 51), forestry (see p. 41), environmental science (see p. 39). Nature of work: A job in ecotourism involves frequent travel to ecological destinations, and may even mean taking up residence there. It usually entails planning and conducting tours and devising ways of promoting travel to increase tourist numbers. It may also involve scouting for new ecological destinations and formulating methods of environmental conservation at these sites. Employment avenues: Travel companies offering tours to ecological destinations; hotels and resorts situated in or near ecological destinations; national and international organizations promoting ecotourism, such as the Ministry of Tourism and the International Ecotourism Society. Entrepreneurship is also a huge possibility in this sector, with people opening their own tour agencies. Related careers: Wildlife conservation (see p. 93), forestry (see p. 61) PLACES TO STUDY A handful of universities and institutes in India and abroad offer specialized courses in Ecotourism • Sikkim Manipal University – MSc in Ecotourism • Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal – PGD in Forest Management with a specialized module in Ecotourism and Nature Conservation • University of Kent, UK – MSc in Conservation and Tourism • Leeds Metropolitan University, UK – MSc in Responsible Tourism Management • Edinburgh Napier University, UK – MSc Ecotourism • University of Western Australia, Perth – Master of Ecotourism • University of North Texas, Denton, USA – Joint MSc in International Sustainable Tourism together with the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE), Costa Rica.

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SPOTLIGHT

One of my most memorable experiences has been meeting Jadav Payeng, also known as the “Forest Man of India”. Jadav has spent more than 30 years in an isolated sandbar in the middle of the Brahmaputra, turning the barren land into a thriving forest by regularly planting trees. Today, Vaivhav Todi his forest harbours a thrilling count of tigers, Founder, Greener Pastures elephants, deer, and many other species. The opportunity to meet him came in 2013, when we decided to hand over a chunk of the funds we had raised through our yearly ecotourism project to him. Jadav met us at the riverbank and steered us to the sandbar in a boat. It took a long ride to reach our destination – a thickly-forested island with tall grass stretching till the horizon and animals running free. Meeting Jadav, learning about his ideas to protect the planet and fight climate change was deeply inspiring. The fact that he had no formal education and everything he did and said came straight from his heart, made it even more poignant. Witnessing his unyielding passion for conservation and determined will was a life changing moment for me. It reaffirmed my decision to pursue a career in environment.

Career in Environmental Architecture Environmental architecture is about planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining buildings that are energy efficient, cost effective, and have a minimal impact on the environment. These buildings are popularly called “green buildings” and they are distinguished by the use of sustainable practices, such as specific construction design for ventilation and cooling, installation of rainwater harvesting systems, and use of renewable energy technologies. The concept of green buildings became popular in India during the early 2000s. At present, the country is home to hundreds of green buildings and billions of square feet of land is registered with the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for upcoming projects.

Courses: Environmental architecture (see p. 13), urban planning (see p. 14) Note* In addition to an architectural qualification, environmental architects need certifications, such as Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) and Green Rating for Integrated Habitat and Assessment (GRIHA) to practise in this field. Nature of work: Work in architecture generally begins with negotiations with clients interested in constructing a green building to understand their needs and taste. The architects then prepare drawings of the building and lay out construction plans, detailing features, such as air-conditioning, ventilation, waste management system, and green spaces, such as rooftop gardens. To prepare drawings and construction plans, architects often visit the site on which the building will stand. During such visits, they need to evaluate factors, such as the weather and type of land in the area. This aspect will be instrumental in deciding the way the building will need to be made, for example the raw materials to be used in construction or the kind of plants that can be grown in the garden. Architects usually work in teams and may need to consult regularly with technical experts, such as civil engineers and horticulturists, in coming up with building plans and implementing construction. They will also need to monitor construction to see that the work is progressing smoothly. Architects can also seek green certification for the building project by bodies, such as the IGBC and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). Employment avenues: Mainly architecture firms. Also, green certification institutions, such as IGBC and TERI; Government and private bodies engaged in green initiatives, such as renewable energy projects; Companies manufacturing raw material, such as recycled concrete, used for construction of green buildings. GREEN BUILDINGS • CII-Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre, Hyderabad: A building made almost completely with recycled material, it reuses waste water to spray incoming air. The air becomes cooler, thereby reducing the load on air-conditioning. It uses almost 60 per cent less energy than a conventional building. • CRISIL House, Hiranandani Gardens, Mumbai: Among the greenest commercial complexes in India, the CRISIL House has 14 gardens inside it. A majority of the work area does not need any artificial lighting

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during the day, as the building is designed in a way that allows natural light to seep even into the interiors. • ITC Gardenia, Bengaluru: It is the first Indian hotel and among the world’s largest, to get the LEED Platinum rating, one of the world’s leading green certifications.

SPOTLIGHT

I stumbled upon architecture based on my high school grades and aptitude tests, and in the final year of graduation, the much-discussed “green revolution” had moored me into field of sustainable architecture. Upon graduating, I had to choose one of two career paths – as an Suraksha Bhatla environmental architect for a firm that practices Environmental Architect green design principles exclusively or as an environmental consultant with a multidisciplinary firm, working with a team of architects and engineers. I ended up exploring both options. My first job was with an international firm, best known for its innovative green buildings and masterplans. Later, I pursued a Master’s in Sustainable Environmental Design and started working as an environmental designer for a start-up architectural firm. However, I wanted more experience in building simulations and green certification schemes, such as GreenMark and LEED. So, I joined a firm that offered me this opportunity. It is this technical area of expertise, which, I believe, is the key to understanding the fundamentals of sustainable design. If the green momentum continues, smart cities will be realized in our lifetime. Environmental architecture can transform the way future cities can be designed, planned, and operated applying the clean and smart approach. My hope is that in the future, every time I see a two-dimensional sketch transform into a building, it will be a living, breathing space in harmony with nature.

Career in Environmental Auditing An environmental audit is an exercise usually conducted by a team of people comprising environmental specialists, such as environmental engineers or scientists. They examine and evaluate the environmental impacts of various activities undertaken by an organization. For example, they determine if a facility or site like a factory or office complex is complying with the environmental laws and standards of the country. The practise of such audits dates back to the 1970s, when a handful of companies in the USA began to review and evaluate their operating units to check compliance with the newly developed environmental laws and regulations.

Relevant courses: Environmental engineering (see p. 38), environmental management (see p. 19), environmental science (see p. 39), environmental law (see p. 22) Note* For conducting some types of environmental audits, auditors need to have certain certifications. The most common certification in India is ISO 14001, offered by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Nature of work: The process of environmental auditing begins by identifying what the audit will examine and evaluate. For example, will it look into waste disposal at a particular site or ways in which the entire site can be made more eco-friendly. After this, an audit team is selected for on-site inspection that may span from a few days to a few weeks. Background information on the site is collected and audit dates are decided. The team reviews the existing conditions at the site and documents their findings. It is important that all the findings of the audit team are backed by evidence, such as air or water samples that show pollution levels at the site, and observations from staff that may indicate adverse health effects being caused by pollution. A final audit report is prepared and submitted to the organization. If the activities of an organization are found to be harming the environment, the auditors may also suggest ways to address the situation. For example, by reusing certain waste instead of disposing it or by using more energy-efficient technology on the site. Employment avenues: Audit and consultancy firms; public bodies, such as the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), State Pollution Control Boards and Committees; Certification bodies such as the BIS; national and multinational companies engaged in activities, such as mining and logging; national and

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international bodies working in the environmental domain, such as the National Environment Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP). Related careers: Environmental consultancy (see p. 74), environmental law (see p. 77) ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT VS ENVIRONMENTAL AUDITING Both EA and EIA are commonly used terms in the environmental field. While EA assesses the compliance of environmental administration and performance of an operating business with environmental protection requirements and healthy environmental practices, EIA is carried out at the project planning stage to incorporate environmental protection measures in the project design.

SPOTLIGHT

From revealing how an organization can save money by changing the lights in its office building to evaluating the expenditure incurred by a company because of improper waste disposal – being an environmental auditor is like a “dream come true” for an Ishita Shah environmentally-conscious person. We get to Environmental Auditor make a difference by holding organizations accountable for the environmental impact of their activities. An element of adventure comes from on-site inspections at locations, ranging from factories to riversides, to unravel facts. With rising environmental consciousness, being eco-friendly is becoming a trend. Consumers like to buy eco-friendly products and employees wish to be associated with companies having an eco-friendly attitude. With more organizations waking up to this cause, the role of environmental auditors is growing in importance and scope, by the day.

Career in Environmental Consultancy Environmental consultants help organizations – government or commercial – in carrying out environment-related businesses or activities by providing them technical advice, information, and assistance in their work. For example, if a company wants to set up a power plant generating electricity from renewable energy sources, consultants offer advice on installation procedures and costs involved, provide updates on the latest developments in the market, and give guidance on the rules and regulations. As organizations get increasingly mindful of mitigating the adverse environmental impact of their operations, many lucrative opportunities have emerged in this field.

Courses: Energy management and energy engineering (see p. 36), environmental management (see p. 19), environmental engineering (see p. 38), environmental science (see p. 39), environmental law (see p. 22) Nature of work: Work in environmental consulting usually begins with negotiations with clients, mainly organizations involved in environmental businesses or activities, to understand their needs. For example, if the client wants the consultant to review a factory site to make sure that it’s not violating any environmental rules and regulations of the country that can incur a penalty, or if the client is interested in starting an environmental business, such as waste management, and wants to learn the pros and cons of it. A team of consultants comprising specialists, such as environmental engineers, environmental scientists, and environmental lawyers, is put together to assess the needs of the client and prepare a report and presentation that offers technical advice and information to meet the client’s needs. The job often involves travelling to sites where the client is conducting or planning to conduct an environmental business, such as a solar power or a waste recycling plant. Employment avenues: Mainly consulting firms in the environment. However, professionals are sometimes hired independently by national and international bodies working in environmental domains, such as transport, agriculture, waste management, carbon finance, and renewable energy. Related careers: Environmental auditing (see p. 72), environmental law (see p. 77)

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SPOTLIGHT

One of the fundamental objectives of my life was shaped through my experiences as a 12-year-old travelling through Europe. I saw better roads, taller buildings, a vast and punctual public transport system, and for the first time I drank water straight from a tap – a sharp contrast to the ways of life in India. Nitin Verma Partner and MD, SustainAsia   After studying civil engineering in India,   I pursued a master’s in environmental engineering in the US. The environmental field in the US offered me many exciting career opportunities, especially in the fields of water infrastructure, clean technology, and energy. After working for about 6 years, I did an MBA in Finance and Strategy at INSEAD. By then, I was confident that I had learnt enough to come back to India and apply my knowledge here, and I have never looked back.   Environmental consulting is an evolving field in India. As the government becomes increasingly serious about tackling environmental issues, advisory services are gaining importance. Effective consultancy not only offers workable solutions but also helps in implementing them. For me, the biggest motivation is that the projects I am working on today will outlive me and touch the lives of future generations.

Career in Environmental Journalism News on the environment has begun to feature quite frequently in the media over the past few years. Environmental awareness has increased, especially in the younger generations that have also studied about the environment in schools and colleges. This has created many avenues for those interested in writing on environmental subjects like pollution, climate change, loss of biodiversity, and wildlife conservation.

Courses: Although open to candidates from a variety of educational backgrounds, pursuing courses such as environmental journalism (see p. 20) may be useful, especially in getting the first break in this field.

Nature of work: Environmental journalism involves extensive travelling to uncover environmental issues, such as marine pollution caused by discharge of untreated waste into water bodies or excessive logging in forested areas endangering animal and tribal populations. It also brings to light inspiring environmental movements to save trees and wildlife or the discovery of a new species of plant or animal. Journalists meet and interview people from ordinary villagers to business managers, investigate and unearth facts, and write stories. Employment avenues: Mainly newspapers, magazines, TV channels, and websites that cover environmental subjects. Sometimes, environmental journalists are also hired by eco-friendly businesses, such as those manufacturing products made from recycled waste, to publicize their work through the media. Related careers: Wildlife photography and filmmaking (see p. 96) GREEN PUBLISHING These days many publishing houses around the world are bringing out books on environmental subjects, such as different plant and animal species, natural phenomena like precipitation, and threats like global warming. However, apart from covering such issues, many of these publishers also follow green printing procedures that reduce energy consumption and resource wastage in printing, most commonly through the use of recycled paper and energy-efficient printing technology.

SPOTLIGHT

Keya Acharya President, Forum of Environmental Journalists in India (FEJI)

In the year 2000, I was travelling within Madhya Pradesh on work. One evening I boarded a public bus from Raipur to Jagdalpur, a place in the interiors of Bastar. All through the journey I could feel a man staring at me.   I reached Jagdalpur past midnight. I had made prior arrangements for stay at the Circuit House there. But as I approached the rickshaws at the bus stop to take me to the Circuit House, the man from the bus came over to me, “The Circuit House

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will not be open at this hour. You could stay in my house till 7 am, I have a spare room.” Feeling a little helpless over the situation, I accepted his offer. The driver didn’t ask the man where to go. He just cycled us to the doorstep of an ordinary-looking house. At his doorstep, the man informed me that his wife was away visiting relatives! Collecting my frightened thoughts, I quickly locked myself into the room he showed me.   Next morning, when I left the room, I found a note on the breakfast table bearing the official letterhead of the Kendriya Vidyalaya: “Do please accept this invitation to speak at Assembly to my students – Principal.”   And that’s how my career in environmental reporting has been: deeply exciting, with great surprises thrown up at the remotest of places, and the best of human beings in the most unlikely of situations.

Career in Environmental Law When the Constitution of India was framed in 1950, there was hardly any mention of “environment” in it. It was only in the 1970s that protecting the environment and safeguarding forests and wildlife was included in the directive principles of state policy and made a fundamental duty of citizens of India. In 1972, the Wildlife (Protection) Act became the first environmental law of independent India. Since then a number of environmental laws have been enacted, such as the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981, the Environmental Protection Act of 1986, and the Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989. These have given the country a strong body of environmental laws, which in turn has given people the option of seeking legal remedies to environmental issues affecting them. In October 2010, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) was set up to provide speedy justice in environmental matters and reduce the burden on higher courts. Till February 2015, the NGT has passed judgements on more than 450 cases related to environmental issues, such as pollution, cutting of trees, forest conservation, and illegal construction. This is testimony to the growing practise of environmental law in India and the opportunities that exist for those seeking to make a career out of it.

Courses: Environmental law (see p. 22) Nature of work: A challenging vocation, environmental law involves extensive fact checking and research. Quite often, things begin when a client, either a member of the public or an organization comes forth with an environmental issue for which they seek legal intervention. Environmental lawyers need to begin by performing a background check on the client and the veracity of their claims. Once a case has been established, thorough research on the environmental impact of the issue follows. Hence, a background in environment can be a huge bonus for a lawyer seeking a career in this field. Employment avenues: Legal firms; environmental NGOs; national and multinational companies involved in projects closely connected to the environment, such as building dams, making roadways, or mining; government bodies set up under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change. Related careers: Environmental auditing (see p. 72), environmental consultancy (see p. 74), environmental management (see p. 19)

SPOTLIGHT

It wasn’t a conscious call but a chance encounter that thrust me into environmental law. Over three decades ago, during a social gathering, I came to know through a stranger about the devastating effects of pollution on the Taj Mahal. I dwelled on the matter at length MC Mehta and went to Agra to see the impact of air Veteran Environmental Lawyer pollution on the monument. I observed that it was indeed being eroded by acid rain from toxic emissions from an oil refinery and other polluting industries in the vicinity. I had no background in environmental science and in those days there  was no internet to quickly access information. I spent days toiling in libraries, reading, making notes, and at times seeking expert advice to learn about the cause and effect of acid rain and other pollutants on monuments and the environment. Finally, in 1984 I filed the first petition for safeguarding the Taj Mahal and other cultural sites in and around Agra and Mathura. In 1996, the Supreme Court passed the historic judgement that directed industries to move out of the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) or

The Green Guide I 78-79

to take specific measures to control pollution levels. This case became a milestone for the protection of cultural heritage, environment, and the life and health of the people. Ever since, I’ve been involved in an array of cases for the protection and conservation of the environment. Today, there are several avenues to acquire knowledge and build a successful practice in this domain. Lawyers can play a dominant role in the protection of natural resources, cultural heritage, and the environment for the present and the future generations. 

CAREERS IN GREEN TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE Transport, or the movement of humans, animals, and goods from one place to another, is a key necessity of life. Commuting to office or school or walking down to the market – we all use some form of transport in our daily lives. The means of transport that we use to go from one place to another includes all types of vehicles from cars and buses to ships and spacecraft! However, transport consumes a huge amount of energy and is a major cause of pollution. For example, vehicles burning up fuels like petrol, which is made from non-renewable natural resources, release particulate matter and Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) into the air, and roads on which these vehicles ply are often made by cutting through jungles and blasting mountains. However, as non-renewable natural resources dwindle and become more expensive and countries realize the harmful effects of rampant pollution caused by transport, there has been a determined drive to make transport more environment-friendly, creating opportunities for students from environmental backgrounds in this field.

Green Vehicles

According to a report by the planning commission, the number of registered motor vehicles in India went up from 21 million in 1991 to 142 million in 2011 marking an over six fold increase. As the number of vehicles has increased, so has the demand for fuel. Today, transport consumes more than 55 million tonnes of fuel annually. The burning up of millions of tonnes of fuel and severe traffic congestion caused by the large number of vehicles on Indian roads,

has led to a severe drop in the air quality across many Indian cities. One of the ways in which automobile manufacturers are trying to contain the situation is by developing green vehicles that have a less harmful effect on the environment. Examples of green vehicles in India include vehicles powered by advanced vehicle technologies such as electric cars; vehicles powered by renewable energy such as solar-powered cars; and vehicles powered by cleaner fuels such as CNG buses. Efforts are also being made to increase fuel economy in a bid to make vehicles “greener”. This has led to the emergence of career opportunities in the automotive industry for students with environmental qualifications.

Courses: Energy engineering (see p. 36), electrical engineering (see p. 34), civil engineering (see p. 31), mechanical engineering (see p. 47) Nature of work: Jobs in this field range from research and development roles that involve collecting and analyzing data on green vehicles, for example monitoring the market demand for such vehicles, the different types of fuels and technology that can power vehicles, and making these vehicles more affordable; design roles that involve determining how these vehicles need to be designed, for example if they need a special type of engine or a different body shape and creating a prototype for the vehicle; procurement, manufacturing, and distribution roles that deal with obtaining the raw materials required to make these vehicles, monitoring the production of such vehicles, and delivering these vehicles to sellers respectively; and roles in sales and marketing that involve persuading consumers to buy such vehicles and increasing sales. Employment avenues: Mainly motor-vehicle makers who manufacture green vehicles.

Public Transport and Infrastructure Apart from developing green vehicles, another way of addressing the environmental hazards of transport is by developing effective public transportation systems, such as buses and trains, that people can use in their daily commute instead of private vehicles.   However, to develop public transportation, it is important to first have durable infrastructure for it. For example, in order to provide train services, a place first needs to have railway lines. Infrastructure also helps to control

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traffic congestion. For example, a traffic jam is less likely on a broad road with no signals than on a narrow road with many signals. Additionally, infrastructure can also be made eco-friendly by using less polluting raw materials, such as recycled plastic waste, instead of traditionally-used materials like bitumen, a mineral whose mining leads to major GHG emissions. In the last few years, India has shown its commitment towards building eco-friendly infrastructure and developing public transport. For example, thousands of kilometres of roads in rural India have been built using eco-friendly raw materials like jute, coir, fly ash, and plastic waste. All infrastructure projects are required to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment report to the government before they can get approval and a growing number of infrastructure companies are involving environmental consultants in their projects. Public transportation systems have been given a boost by the introduction of metro rail services and Bus Rapid Transport System (BRTS) across many Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Such measures have led to the emergence of career opportunities for students with qualifications in environment, who are interested in joining this field.

Courses: Urban planning (see p. 14), civil engineering (see p. 31) Nature of work: Jobs in public transport and infrastructure include planning roles that determine the transportation and infrastructure needs of a particular place based on factors, such as location and population, for example, how many buses are needed to service a particular route based on the number of people living there; research roles that involve collecting and analysing data on public transport and eco-friendly infrastructure, for example, research on new types of eco-friendly raw materials that can be used in building infrastructure; engineering roles that involve designing and building public transport facilities as well as infrastructure and monitoring the construction work, for example, determining the soil type, weather conditions, and expected traffic in a particular area in order to build a durable road that will not cave in when traffic starts moving on it or the area is hit by bad weather, such as thunderstorms. Employment avenues: Organizations engaged in providing public transport, such as Metro Rail Corporations and Bus Service Providers; organizations engaged in infrastructure projects like building highways, bridges, and railways; National and International bodies engaged in planning and carrying out

research in public transport and infrastructure, such as the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the Ministry of Urban Development, and the United Nations Development Programme; financial bodies, mainly banks, investing in infrastructure projects. Related careers: Urban planning (see p. 14) PLACES TO STUDY A handful of universities and institutes in India offer specialized courses in this field: • TERI University, Delhi – MBA (Infrastructure) • University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun – MBA Infrastructure Management • Symbiosis Centre for International Education, Pune – MBA Infrastructure Management

SPOTLIGHT

The urban population in India today constitutes 31 per cent of the total population but is projected to reach the 50 per cent level by 2050. Increasing urbanization leads to increased motorization. Given that India’s urban population is set to double in the OP Agarwal next 35 years, the number of motor vehicles Former Urban Transport will go up 15 times if current trends continue, Advisor, World Bank and the environmental fall-out will exceed acceptable limits.   Mitigation measures need to have a three-pronged approach: Reducing the distance that people travel by developing cities that are compact rather than sprawling; reducing the need for personal vehicles by promoting the use of public transport, walking and cycling; and using cleaner fuels like electricity and fuel cells.   These measures have been adopted with significant success around the world. Cities in Europe have developed a compact form, and, therefore,

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travel distances tend to be lower. Places like Singapore and Seoul have made huge improvements to their public transport systems and to the walking environment while imposing heavy costs on the use of personal cars, while countries like China have taken up aggressive Electric Vehicle programmes. India needs to adopt similar measures if it is to strive towards a low-carbon growth path.

CAREERS IN RENEWABLE ENERGY Today, the world is facing an “energy crises” due to the huge demand and short supply of non-renewable sources of energy, such as coal, oil, and gas. However, energy can also be generated from natural resources, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat. In the 1970s, when oil supply to the USA, Canada, and many other developed countries was cut off in the aftermath of the Yom Kippur War and the Iranian Revolution in the Arab world, these nations explored the use of renewable resources to meet their energy demands. Over time, the use of renewable energy has spread around the world. With its billion-plus population, India has a dire need for energy. In recent times, the country has turned its attention to renewable energy, especially solar energy, to meet its energy needs. With a dedicated Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and several solar power plants in places like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, India is brimming with opportunities in this field.

Course: Energy engineering (see p. 36), electrical engineering (see p. 34), mechanical engineering (see p. 47), environmental management (see p. 19) Nature of work: Jobs in renewable energy include research roles that involve collecting and analyzing data on renewable energy sources – their availability, quality, quantity, and utilization; engineering roles that deal with designing technology that can harness renewable energy; marketing positions that involve pitching and selling this technology; and policy roles that involve planning and implementing rules and regulations for the production, distribution, and consumption of renewable energy. Employment avenues: Public and private firms working in the sector, such as those engaged in manufacturing renewable energy equipment like solar panels,

wind, and hydro turbines and installing it; public and private institutions that conduct research and formulate policy, such as those under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy; consultancies that hire experts to work on renewable energy projects. Related careers: Green vehicles (see p. 79), carbon finance (see p. 63) GLOBAL NEW INVESTMENT IN RENEWABLE ENERGY (BILLION USD)

Data: sourced from UNEP

Smart Grids Smart Grid is a type of electrical grid that uses modern digital technology in the transmission of electricity from a power plant to the consumer. It tends to be more energy efficient and cheaper than the traditional electrical grid. Also, unlike traditional electrical grids, smart grids are better able to transmit power generated through renewable sources like solar and wind. Although this technology is relatively recent in India, a number of pilot projects are already being implemented in places like Gujarat, Bihar, and Puducherry.

Courses: Electrical engineering (see p. 34), energy engineering (see p. 36) Nature of work: Presently, jobs in smart grid are mainly research roles that look into ways of implementing this technology in India. This involves identifying and addressing obstacles in its application, and studying new developments and

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global standards in the field. Other jobs include engineering roles which involve designing and setting up smart grids and policy roles that decide how smart grid technology can be promoted in the country. Employment avenues: Power companies; environmental consultancies looking at projects in power production, distribution, and consumption; government bodies under the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

SPOTLIGHT

My brush with renewable energy came about eight years ago, when I started working in a bio-fuel business in the US and later in a wind energy business in Europe. Following these stints, I moved back to India and started working in the solar energy sector. R Narayan Kumar   In India, solar energy is perhaps the Head, International Solar and most promising sector because of the high Wind Business, Hindustan Power Projects availability of sunlight across the country and the viability of setting up solar power plants. I can set up a solar power plant generating 10 MW of electricity in just six months once I have the land and other facilities in place. Also, input costs are declining as government policies become favourable and the technology becomes more affordable.   Like every new industry, renewable energy has its challenges. The major obstacles are distribution of power generated by renewable energy sources and developing technologies that can cope with factors, such as seasonality and time of the day that directly impact output. Still, over the next decade, I foresee thousands of new jobs being created, especially engineering roles. A key area of expertise would be evaluating a particular site to determine whether it would be a good area to set up an efficient as well as economical power plant.   The best thing about working in this sector is being able to create so much value from freely available natural resources, such as sunlight and wind. There is truly nothing airy-fairy about it! (as told to the author)

Career in the Social Sector Work in the social sector is about giving a better life to people by addressing their needs. Safeguarding the environment through activities such as conserving forests, wildlife and indigenous communities, reducing pollution, and spreading awareness on a societal or grassroots level is inextricably linked to the aim of the social sector to better the lives of people across the world.

Courses: The social sector is open to anyone with the passion. If you wish to join it in a professional capacity and contribute to environmental causes, a degree in environmental science (see p. 39), environmental law (see p. 22) or environmental economics (see p. 18) is helpful. A degree in developmental studies, social work, or education is also useful. Nature of work: An environmental job in the social sector involves addressing environmental problems and spreading awareness on environmental issues among people. Social workers identify and visit places where the environment is under threat, for example, forests are being chopped or animals are being poached, to understand the ground reality. They observe the place closely, speak to local residents and government officials, and think of possible solutions to address the problem at hand. For example, if excessive logging by villagers is destroying forest areas near a village, social workers can educate the villagers on the harmful effects of deforestation and ask them to plant a tree in the place of each one they chop. Planning and conducting such activities that help to address an environmental problem is a core responsibility in the social sector. Organizing events like dramas, bazaars, elocution contests, and quizzes on environmental themes and fundraising through the government, the corporate sector, foreign agencies, or individual members of society are some other ways in which the social sector helps to address environmental concerns.   Having a background in environment makes it easier for professionals in this sector to understand the technicalities of an environmental problem and provide relevant inputs. However, passion is of utmost importance because this work can be extremely taxing. It demands long hours and rough travel, often to remote areas that lack basic amenities, and the remuneration is much lower than most other sectors. However, for someone keen on plodding through, the experience is richly rewarding.

The Green Guide I 86-87

Employment avenues: The major employers in the social sector are National and International Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Other avenues include charitable trusts and foundations; social enterprises such as cooperatives; community businesses where the trading activity aims to meet social goals. Related careers: Wildlife conservation (see p. 93)

SPOTLIGHT

At the Azim Premji Foundation, we work with government schools at the grassroots level. Today, the foundation is associated with more than 3,50,000 schools across eight states. Our aim is to help teachers teach better so that children learn more and learn better. We Anurag Behar want students to engage with their studies by CEO, Azim Premji Foundation understanding and thinking about what they are learning, so they can become not just better students but also better human beings, with a sense of personal social responsibility.   Education, however, is rooted in society, and environmental concern is also an important goal of holistic education. So, the foundation encourages schools to cultivate ecological concern among students, not just through teaching subjects related to environmental science, but also by integrating this science into the subjects being taught.   People are moulded by what they see in their immediate environment. In my experience environmental sensitivity tends to be higher when people have to face environmental issues. In Rajasthan, for example, which faces acute water scarcity, hundreds of schools are involved in outstanding water harvesting projects. They save every inch of available water by closely monitoring its collection, storage, and use.   So, even though I cannot make a general comment on whether environmental consciousness has increased overall, I do see that exposure to environmental issues has helped to bring about a change at the individual level. (as told to the author)

✿✿✿✿✿✿

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) CSR refers to the activities companies undertake to address social concerns. Environmental sustainability through activities like reducing, reusing, and recycling waste is among the various measures that come into the ambit of CSR. In 2014, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs announced that under the Companies Act every company – private or public limited – which either has a net worth of Rs 500 crore, a turnover of Rs 1,000 crore, or net profit of Rs 5 crore, will spend at least 2 per cent of its average net profit for the preceding three financial years on CSR activities. This has only boosted CSR activities, creating an opportunity to work with corporates investing in environmental causes.

Career in Teaching One of the key reasons for growing environmental awareness in India is the systematic dissemination of environmental education in schools. Environmental Studies (EVS) is taught in junior classes and concepts, such as water cycle, greenhouse effect, ozone layer depletion, pollution, deforestation, and acid rain, are introduced through the science and social studies syllabus in higher classes. Since the 1980s, many universities and institutes have also been offering specialized courses in this discipline, such as environmental science, environmental economics, and environmental engineering. Hence, several avenues have opened up for those interested in imparting environment education in India.

Course: Postgraduation in a related subject like botany (see p. 29), zoology (see p. 51), geography (see p. 43), or environmental science (see p. 39) Note* To teach in schools, one also needs to have a Bachelors in Education; to become a university lecturer, one needs to clear entrance exams conducted or accredited by the University Grants Commission (UGC). Nature of work: Reading, researching, and preparing lesson plans, including in-class and outdoor activities, conducting classes, setting and correcting test papers. The biggest responsibility of teachers in this discipline is to be able to sensitize students towards the environment and motivate them to preserve it.

The Green Guide I 88-89

Employment avenues: Schools teaching EVS; higher education institutes offering specialized environmental courses.

SPOTLIGHT

Creating environmental consciousness is an important objective of wholesome education, and introducing EVS in schools has been a remarkable move in this direction. I’ve been teaching at the Delhi Public School in Haridwar for close to 18 years now. The Sunila Baveja township where our school is located is a scenic Geography and EVS teacher area, rich in flora and fauna and located close to the Ganges. On days when the sky is clear, you can even see the Himalayas at a distance. However, over the years human activities have put a dent in this natural beauty. The green cover has reduced, many small rivers flowing into the Ganga have dried up and are now filled with waste, several riverine islands have been destroyed and migratory birds have stopped visiting. EVS has helped me and my students to critically examine this natural destruction around us, through activities, such as classroom discussions, video presentations, group excursions, debates and essay-writing competitions. I can see how EVS has helped us all to be more careful about small everyday things like turning off water taps, avoiding plastic bags, and turning-off lights when not required. As a teacher, I feel honoured every time my students take these lessons beyond the classroom and implement them in everyday life. (as told to the author)

Career in Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry India is home to a large animal population and many sectors of society are still dependent on certain species, especially livestock, for their livelihood. Animals are also kept as pets as well as in zoos, across the country. Hence, veterinarians who can attend to the well being of these animals are in huge demand.

Course: Veterinary science and animal husbandry (see p. 50)

Nature of work: Veterinarians diagnose diseases and provide treatment, such as medication and surgeries to cure animals. They also recommend healthy diets and exercise plans to keep animals fit. Veterinarians are also engaged in the scientific development of enhanced animal breeds, such as high milk-yielding cows. They are also involved in research that aids in preventing transmission of animal diseases to humans. Apart from this, they can also teach in universities and institutes. Employment avenues: Public and private animal clinics and hospitals; animal farms keeping livestock and poultry; zoos, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries; national and international bodies involved in animal husbandry and dairying, such as the Veterinary Council of India, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, and the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries in the government; academic institutions teaching veterinary science.

SPOTLIGHT

When it comes to practising veterinary science, the statistics are promising. The livestock sector contributed to over 4 per cent of India’s GDP and about 27 per cent GDP of the agricultural sector in 2012-13. India is not just home to the second highest human population, it is also has C Balachandran a large animal population, of which livestock Dean, Madras Veterinary and poultry make up a bulk. Much like human College beings, even this large animal population needs to be taken care of and managed effectively and veterinarians are among the most sought after professionals. I’ve been teaching for more than 25 years now and have seen the employment options expand exponentially over the years. A large number of people keep pets. The dairy and poultry business has become more organized with a number of private players. The army requires veterinarians for its mounted regiments which have horses, mules, camels and dogs. There are stud farms, zoological parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and aviaries. State veterinary and animal husbandry departments also require qualified veterinarians as do academic institutions training veterinarians. There is no dearth of choices.

The Green Guide I 90-91

However, whatever one may choose to do, genuine love and compassion for animals is quintessential because here the patients can’t speak for themselves and one needs to have that extra bit of heart to understand their non-verbal expressions.

Career in Waste Management Waste management refers to managing activities relating to the collection, transportation, and disposal of waste, such as garbage and sewage. It aims to ensure that these activities do not harm the natural environment or violate environmental laws of the country. With an ever-growing population, rapid urbanization, and industrialization coupled with inadequate infrastructure, India generates staggering amounts of different types of waste every day (see BOX). This has created an urgent need for efficient and sustainable waste management procedures, opening up several career opportunities in this field.

Relevant courses: Chemical engineering (see p. 30), environmental engineering (see p. 38), environmental science (see p. 39), urban planning (see p. 14) Nature of work: An interdisciplinary vocation, jobs in waste management range from those involving analytical work, such as monitoring waste levels and sampling waste; designing work, which is about devising technology that can help with waste management like converting waste to energy; and strategic planning, which deals with devising policies and programmes to manage waste like framing laws on waste disposal or creating and implementing public awareness campaigns. Employment avenues: Private firms and government bodies, such as municipal corporations, engaged in collecting, transporting, and disposing waste; monitoring waste levels and researching on ways to efficiently manage waste generation and disposal; firms engaged in waste treatment and recycling, for example, those manufacturing composting technologies; consultancies working on projects dealing with waste management. Related careers: Environmental consultancy (see p. 74)

COMMON TYPES OF WASTE • Municipal waste: Waste found in urban areas, such as household waste, concrete waste from construction projects, and sewage. • Industrial waste: Generated by industrial activity, mainly manufacturing units, such as factories, mills, and mines. It is often toxic and hazardous, such as waste oil and sludge. • Biomedical waste: Usually has a medical or laboratory origin, such as used surgical wares and expired medicines. It can be infectious. • Agricultural waste: Waste generated in the process of agricultural production, such as plant and animal waste. Most of it is biodegradable.

SPOTLIGHT

My father was a farm leader and agriculturist. In the early 1960s, the Khadi Village Industries Commission, Government of India presented a gobar gas plant to him. The revelation that organic waste, such as cow dung and human excreta can be turned into nutrient-rich compost, Amiya Kumar Sahu was deeply inspiring and propelled me to Founder-President, National consider a career in waste management. Solid Waste Association of India (NSWAI)   My first jobs were in petrochemical refineries, textile and cement industrial units, monitoring air pollution levels and management of chemical solid waste. In the mid-90s, I joined the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), an organization based in Copenhagen, Denmark, where I got tremendous insights to the field of waste management and was also offered exciting opportunities for growth. Dr John Skinner, the then President of ISWA inspired me to start a similar national body in India. In 1996, I founded the National Solid Waste Association of India (NSWAI), an organization of experts that is involved in pioneering work in this field.   My work in this field has made me more conscious of the fact that solid waste management is an enduring endeavour. It is a stark reality that where

The Green Guide I 92-93

there are human beings, industries, and large-scale production, there will be consumption, and so there will be residue. The challenge is to advance waste management technologies and develop skills that will help to turn this waste residue into useful resources or appropriately dispose it. IMPORTING GARBAGE! The Scandinavian country of Sweden has established a global benchmark in waste management. The country recycles a majority of its waste, converting it to energy that fuels its power plants. However, its waste is insufficient, so it goes a step further and imports waste – a bulk of it from neighbouring Norway! In this unique arrangement, the Norwegians pay the Swedes to take the waste off their hands.

CAREERS IN WILDLIFE CONSERVATION Our planet is home to thousands of different species of wildlife. Marine animals such as gigantic whales that live at great depths, birds like the majestic eagles that soar high in the sky, and resilient camels that survive the harsh desert heat. However, animal numbers are dwindling swiftly and many animals, such as the Lowland Gorilla, Black Rhino, and the Siberian Crane, face extinction. According to a 2014 report by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), animal populations across the globe have reduced by 52 per cent since 1970.   India is no exception to this worldwide trend. Despite the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, many species of wildlife, including our national animal, the tiger, face an uncertain future. It is threatened by dangers, such as poaching and destruction of their forest homes. Wildlife conservation is the need of the hour and a promising career for those interested in saving wild wonders from perishing.

Courses: Zoology (see p. 51), veterinary science and animal husbandry (see p. 50), environmental science (see p. 39), marine science (see p. 46), botany (see p. 29), forestry (see p. 41), biotechnology (see p. 28), biochemistry (see p. 26), microbiology (see p. 48), bioinformatics (see p. 27), remote sensing (see p. 49)

Nature of work: Work in wildlife conservation is wide-ranging and multidisciplinary. Jobs range from documenting wildlife through films, photographs, and articles to fundraising for the protection of wildlife in the country. There are also research-based roles, with a mix of laboratory and field activities aimed at collecting and analyzing data on wildlife, monitoring wildlife populations in order to determine if they are thriving or declining, and suggesting measures to control the situation. In academic set-ups, the work is more about disseminating knowledge on wildlife and helping students conduct research. Employment avenues: Government bodies engaged in wildlife conservation, mainly the Indian Forest Service which comes under the Ministry of Environment and Forests; National and International agencies, mainly NGOs, engaged in preserving wildlife such as the Wildlife Trust of India, World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA); Wildlife destinations such as zoological parks and wildlife sanctuaries; educational institutes teaching courses on wildlife. Related careers: Veterinary science and animal husbandry (see p. 89), forestry (see p. 61), ecotourism (see p. 68), environmental journalism (see p. 75), social sector (see p. 86)

SPOTLIGHT

When I started my career in the 1970s, hunting was a sport and animals were killed ruthlessly. Stories of wild and ferocious animals were published in books but conservation was rarely discussed. To help people realize the importance of wildlife, I decided to make Mike Pandey educational films on conservation. Wildlife Filmmaker and   I set up my own studio and we decided to Conservationist make the film Shores of Silence: Whale Sharks in India. As a 9-year-old I had travelled from East Africa to India by ship. I clearly recalled seeing a group of seven whale sharks following our ship to the coast of India. But at that time, people didn’t know that a large number of whale sharks lived in Indian waters. They were not even listed in our national record books.

The Green Guide I 94-95

The film brought the merciless killing of these sharks into the limelight. They were declared “critically endangered” and protected under the Wildlife Act, 1972. A global ban on shark hunting was enforced and protection campaigns were launched. According to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the species would have become extinct by now, but the awareness generated by the film helped to rescue the sharks.   Such is the power of a film. It helps to make the planet a safer place for animals and gives expression to the inhuman cruelty they bear in silence. Every day in the wilderness is a new chapter unfolding nature’s awesome mystery, leaving me enriched, empowered and deeply humbled. MIKE’S MANTRA FOR PROSPECTIVE WILDLIFE FILMMAKERS AND CONSERVATIONISTS When you film a wild animal, you are filming history. That action will never be repeated again so it’s unique. Preserve your pictures…they all tell timeless stories. Good luck and take care! • Action happens when you least expect it. There are no retakes, so be alert and have your camera ready for any movement – the unpredictable moment when the animal is in action. • Wear dull khaki or camel-coloured shirts and trousers, bright colours are distracting to animals. • Silence is golden. Don’t make noise or sounds to attract attention of wild animals, especially tigers and panthers. • Keep your eyes, ears, and nose alert – your senses are your best assistants. • When in the presence of animals relax and don’t make sudden movements or gestures. • Safety is a priority. Wild animals can move at a lightening pace and are dangerous. So keep your distance and never try to get too close. • Do not feed the animals, especially monkeys. • Follow the park rules. Stay in your vehicle unless allowed to step out. • Carry water bottles and never dispose your waste in the park.

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION IN INDIA Since its independence, India has taken many steps to protect its wildlife populations. Some of these are: • Project Tiger: Launched in 1973, project tiger aims to provide safe havens for India’s dwindling tiger population. When the project started, India had just 9 tiger reserves covering an area of over 16,000 sq km. Today it has more than 30 reserves. • Project Elephant: Inaugurated in 1992, project elephant provides financial and technical support to States with major elephant populations, such as Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Assam, and Karnataka. • National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP): An important policy decision of the government, the NWAP outlines strategies, action points, and the priority projects for conservation of wild fauna and flora in the country, for example, by increasing protected areas for wildlife, boosting wildlife tourism, monitoring and researching on wildlife populations, and spreading awareness on conservation. • Wildlife Institute of India (WII): Established in 1982, the WII imparts training, conducts academic courses, and offers advice on matters of conservation and management of wildlife resources. It is also engaged in extensive research on wildlife across the country.

Wildlife Photography and Filmmaking

Wildlife photography and filmmaking help to visually document species of plants and animals found in nature, their health and well being, or the lack thereof, in a particular place. It is integral to wildlife conservation programmes, especially those involved in spreading awareness, because images tend to leave a more lasting impression in the minds of people. As wildlife conservation gains momentum, wildlife photography and filmmaking are becoming popular career options for those interested in pursuing this offbeat, creative vocation.

The Green Guide I 96-97

Courses: A course in wildlife photography and filmmaking (see p. 15) will help in learning the technicalities of this vocation and getting a break in this field. However, it may also be useful to supplement it with a course on wildlife, such as zoology (see p. 51). Nature of work: Primarily a field-based occupation, wildlife photography and filmmaking entail frequent visits to ecological destinations, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, to take pictures of or film wildlife in natural surroundings. It is an intensive exercise, which generally begins with identifying which animals to film or photograph, researching on them and deciding on a suitable time, location, and sometimes technology, for the shoot. Filmmakers, especially, may also need to seek additional permissions to film. Quite often, the work of wildlife photographers and filmmakers is commissioned by external clients, such as NGOs wanting pictures or movies for a wildlife conservation campaign. Hence, they need to understand the client’s requirements in order to ensure that their work fulfills these needs. Sometimes, they also pitch their photographs or films to prospective clients, such as wildlife authorities and NGOs. So it’s also important for them to evaluate the marketability of their photos and films – for example, how a particular film can help with conservation efforts and who is likely to invest in it. Employment avenues: Newspapers, magazines, TV and radio channels, and websites covering wildlife; National and International agencies, mainly NGOs, engaged in preserving wildlife, such as the Wildlife Trust of India, World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA); companies keen on preserving wildlife as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR); travel companies promoting ecotourism destinations.

USEFUL RESOURCES Get in touch with organizations working in the environmental domain in India to explore opportunities to volunteer, intern, or pursue short-term courses. 1. Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE);   www.atree.org/ 2. Association for Studies in Literature and Environment – India; http://asleindia.webs.com/ 3. Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS); www.bnhs.org/ 4. Centre for Environment Education (CEE); www.ceeindia.org/ 5. Centre for Environmental Research and Education, India (CERE-India); cere-india.org/ 6. Centre for Science and Environment (CSE); www.cseindia.org/ 7. Centre for Sustainable Development (CSD); www.csdindia.in/ 8. Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS); cwsindia.org/ 9. CPR Environmental Education Centre; www.cpreec.org/ 10. Earth Matters Foundation; www.earthmattersfoundation.org/ 11. EIA Resource and Response Centre; www.ercindia.org 12. Environmentalist Foundation of India; www.indiaenvironment.org/ 13. Environmental Management Centre (EMC); emcentre.com/ 14. Forest Research Institute (FRI); fri.icfre.gov.in/ 15. Forum of Environmental Journalists in India (FEJI); http://feji.org.in/ 16. Greenpeace India; www.greenpeace.org/india/en/ 17. Indian Council of Agricultural Research; www.icar.org.in/ 18. Indian Environmental Society; www.iesglobal.org/ 19. Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology; www.tropmet.res.in/ 20. Indian Youth Climate Network; ycn.in/ 21. Integrated Sustainable Energy and Ecological Development Association; www.inforse.org/asia/inseda.htm 22. Legal Initiative for Forests and Environment

The Green Guide I 98-99

23. MC Mehta Environmental Foundation; http://mcmef.org/ 24. MS Swaminathan Research Foundation; http://www.mssrf.org/ 25. National Biodiversity Authority; www.nbaindia.org/ 26. National Botanical Research Institute; www.nbri.res.in/ 27. National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI); www.neeri.res.in/ 28. National Green Tribunal; www.greentribunal.gov.in/ 29. National Institute of Oceanography; www.nio.org/ 30. Nature Conservation Society; ncs.org.in/ 31. Organization for Marine Conservation Awareness and Research; http://omcar.org/ 32. People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) – India; www.petaindia.com/ 33. Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History; sacon.in/ 34. Solar Energy Society of India; www.sesi.in/ 35. The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI); www.teriin.org/ 36. Wildlife Conservation Society – India; www.wcsindia.org/ 37. Wildlife Protection Society of India; www.wpsi-india.org/ 38. Wildlife Trust of India; www.wti.org.in/ 38. World Wildlife Fund – India; www.wwfindia.org/

Places to visit: India is home to some truly spectacular ecological destinations. Plan a visit to these in your coming vacation, if you haven’t already been there. 5

6 26

21

4

19 20

3

15

17

12 8 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

25

24 2 16 13 14

18

1

27

11 22 7 9 10

Kaziranga National Park, Assam Manas National Park, Assam Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Haryana Dachigam National Park, J&K Hemis High Altitude Park, J&K Eravikulam National Park, Kerala Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kerala 9. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala 10. Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

11. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka 12. Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka 13. Bandhavgarh National Park, MP 14. Kanha National Park, MP 15. Pench National Park, MP 16. Panna National Park, MP 17. Mahim Nature Park, Maharashtra 18. Nandankanan Zoo, Odisha 19. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan

20. Ranthambore Wildlife, Rajasthan 21. Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan 22. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu 23. Dudhwa National Park, UP 24. Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand 25. Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand 26. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand 27. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal

The Green Guide I 100-101

Mark the day: Every year there are numerous days celebrating the environment. Use these popular and not-so-popular days to read and spread awareness about the environment through quizzes, elocutions, poetry competitions, essay-writing competitions, and other fun classroom activities that you can think up of.

February

March

2 World Wetland Day 27 International Polar Bear Day 28 National Science Day

3 World Wildlife Day 21 World Forestry Day 22 World Water Day 23 World Meteorological Day

April

June

7 World Health Day 22 Earth Day

5 World Environment Day

July

August

11 World Population Day 29 International Tiger Day

12 World Elephant Day

September

October

16 World Ozone Day 28 Green Consumer Day

3 World Habitat Day 1-7 World Wildlife Week 4 World Animal Welfare Day 13 International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction

December

2 Bhopal Tragedy Day

GREEN GUIDE INDEX

AAgribusiness Management 10, 16, 17, EEcotourism 42, 55, 61, 68, 69, 94, 97 18, 24, 29 34, 57, 59, 65 Agribusiness 17, 18, 57, 58, 59 Agricultural finance 58 Agriculture 23, 24 Agriculture research 59 Ayurvedic medicine and surgery 7, 25, 62, 63

BBiochemistry 26, 29, 46, 48, 59, 93

Bioinformatics 27, 28, 29, 48, 93 Biotechnology 8, 10, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 48, 58, 93 Botany 10, 26, 29, 39, 42, 45, 46, 61, 68, 88, 93

CCarbon Finance 63, 64, 65, 66, 774, 84

Chemical Engineering 10, 23, 29, 30, 91 Civil Engineering 10, 14, 31, 49, 75, 80, 81 Climate Change 19, 20, 21, 33, 41, 61, 64, 65, 66, 67, 69, 75, 78 Climate Science 9, 11, 32, 33, 64, 66, 67

Electrical Engineering 31, 34, 35, 36, 80, 83, 84 Electronic Engineering 34, 35, 36 Energy Engineering 30, 31, 35, 36, 37, 38, 47, 74, 80, 82, 83 Energy Management 37, 38, 74 Environmental Architecture 10, 13, 14, 54, 69, 70, 71, 82 Environmental Auditing 54, 72, 73, 74, 78 Environmental Consultancy 54, 64, 72, 74, 78, 91 Environmental Economics 11, 18, 19, 63, 86, 88 Environmental Engineering 19, 21, 29, 30, 31, 38, 40, 47, 63, 64, 72, 74, 88, 91 Environmental Journalism 9, 21, 75, 76, 94 Environmental Law 19, 20, 22, 72, 73, 74, 77, 78, 86, 91 Environmental Management 18, 19, 20, 29, 30, 31, 35, 37, 47, 63, 72, 74, 78, 83 Environmental Science 18, 19, 22, 29, 39, 40, 43, 51, 68, 72, 74, 86, 78, 87, 88, 91, 93 Environmental Studies 39, 40, 76, 88

DDairy Technology 24, 29, 33, 34, 57, 59 FFishery 24, 34, 40, 41, 46, 51, 60, 61

Forest Management 42, 43, 68 Forestry 29, 41, 42, 43, 45, 55, 61, 68, 93

The Green Guide I 102-103

GGeography 39, 43, 44, 49, 88

SSmart Grid 84, 85

HHorticulture 24, 42, 43, 44 LLandscape Architecture 12, 14 M Marine Biology 46, 47

TTeaching 62, 87, 88, 89, 90, 94 UUrban Planning 13, 14, 70, 81, 91 VVeterinary Science 50, 89, 90, 93, 94 W Waste Management 7, 14, 54, 66, 70,

Green transport and infrastructure 79 Green vehicles 79, 80, 84

Marine Science 41, 46, 47, 57, 60, 93 Mechanical Engineering 10, 38, 47, 83 Meteorology 9, 32, 33, 67 Microbiology 29, 46, 48, 49, 58, 59, 93

O Oceanography 46, 47 PPower Systems Engineering 35, 36

Public transport and infrastructure 80, 81

RRemote Sensing 49, 50, 59, 66, 93

Renewable Energy 7, 13, 14, 37, 38, 54, 64, 69, 70, 74, 83, 84, 85 Rural Management 17, 18, 24, 34, 57, 58

Social sector 55, 86, 87, 94

74, 91, 92, 93, Wildlife Conservation 51, 55, 61, 68, 75, 87, 93, 94, 96, 97 Wildlife Photography and filmmaking 76, 96, 97 Wildlife Science 9, 29, 51, 52

ZZoology 9, 10, 26, 38, 41, 46, 51, 52, 61, 68, 88, 93, 97

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to thank TERI Press for giving me the opportunity to work on this incredible handbook. A BIG thank you to the countless people who have pitched in on it, especially Dr Swaminathan for his kind words and affectionate willingness to endorse my debut effort. My parents, brother, and in-laws for standing by me. My husband, Nishant, for coping so well with my unpredictable work schedules, and my mother for making me capable enough to push against all odds.

– Megha Aggarwal

From the Desk of Dr Leena Srivastava

The 1970s are known for the Green Revolution in India. However, this decade was also vital to the introduction of environmental education in the country. The International Conference on Environment Education that took place in Tbilisi, Georgia, in 1977 put the onus on the governments of the world to follow a curriculum for programmes on environment. Following the conference, several Indian universities and institutes made determined efforts to establish academic programmes in environmental education and by the 1980s, many courses were introduced.   In 1999, the government also undertook a World Bank-aided study to identify the gaps and anomalies in environmental education in India. This study was instrumental in the development of a school syllabus that attempts to improve children’s understanding and knowledge of the environment. These measures have created a generation of eco-savvy youngsters who send e-cards on birthdays instead of wasting paper and mock upon bursting crackers during Diwali. They have increased the willingness of the youth to contribute to environmental causes. However, a number of students may not know that today there are various ways in which they can convert their green interests into a career. The Green Guide to Environmental Courses and Careers is a pioneering practical guide for students keen on exploring study options and career fields in the environmental domain in India. Handy facts and snippets from the lives of professionals make it a useful addition to the environmental literature of the country.

Dr Leena Srivastava Vice Chancellor, TERI University

Megha Aggarwal has been writing on social issues, especially education, for a few years now. She has contributed to the education supplements of The Times of India as well as The Hindu, and has also written for The New Paper – part of Singapore Press Holdings. She is deeply interested in understanding what it means to be young and what expectations youngsters have of their lives, especially their academic life. When she is not writing on education, she enjoys cooking up stories for children and editing children’s books at a Chennai-based publishing house.

The book is a timely contribution.... It should help the young students to become the architects of a sustainable future for our country.

– MS Swaminathan

– MS SWAMINATHAN Father of the Indian Green Revolution

As India gradually moves towards a “green” economy, new avenues of employment are opening up for today’s youth. For students thinking about future course and career options, this one-of-its-kind handbook offers a rich body of information required to turn a green interest into a future opportunity. From environmental engineering, environmental science, and environmental law to agriculture, climate science, and zoology – it profiles a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, and the broad spectrum of careers they lead to. Peppered with anecdotal accounts from well-known professionals and a handy listing of useful resources, The Green Guide to Environmental Courses and Careers is a must-have for any student keen on harnessing a green passion.

THE GREEN GUIDE TO ENVIRONMENT COURSES AND CAREERS

2015 marks the beginning of the UN Decade of Sustainable Development. Sustainable development involves the incorporation of ecological principles in technology development and dissemination. It is in this context that the present book by Ms Megha Aggarwal is a timely contribution. The book covers a wide range of information dealing with agriculture, energy, engineering, medicine, architecture, finance, and environmental management. It should help the young students to become the architects of a sustainable future for our country. I hope the book will be read and used widely.

ISBN 978-81-7993-569-9

9 788179 935699 `150

The Energy and Resources Institute

This book is printed on recycled paper.

Megha Aggarwal