Govardhan Ecovillage

Govardhan Ecovillage, in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur and CII - Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), recently hosted a thought-provoking conference at the National Stock Exchange Auditorium. The event united thought leaders, policymakers, scholars, and changemakers to explore the interplay of traditional wisdom and modern sustainability practices. Keynote speakers included the Honourable Governor of Maharashtra Shri CP Radhakrishnan; Shri S. Gurumurthy, CA, Corporate and Legal Advisor; Prof. Ganti S. Murthy, IIT Indore, National Coordinator, IKS; Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan, IIT Bombay; Prof. Varadraj Bapat, IIT Bombay; Ar. Hiten Sethi, Founder, Hiten Sethi and Associates; and Shri Gauranga Das, Director of Govardhan Ecovillage. Here are the most profound insights from the event: The Honourable Governor of Maharashtra, Shri CP Radhakrishnan, underscored a profound truth: we are trustees, not owners, of the Earth. By embracing India’s heritage of reverence for nature and acting with accountability, he called for a shift from exploitation to stewardship, urging deliberate actions to secure a harmonious future for both humanity and the environment. Shri Gauranga Das introduced the Ashta Lakshmi framework, redefining wealth through courage, education, harmony, food security, and respect for nature. He stressed “Yuktahar”—mindful consumption that balances resource management with spiritual growth—and advocated responsible use of water, energy, and waste to promote planetary health. Shri S. Gurumurthy underscored the vital role of philosophy in shaping sustainable lifestyles. “Sustainability is not a mechanical process; it is the very essence of nature,” he remarked, calling for a deeper connection between human values and ecological balance. He highlighted how philosophy shapes consumption patterns, production systems, and lifestyle goals, offering a path to align humanity’s actions with nature’s rhythms. Gurumurthy particularly addressed the environmental impact of global meat consumption which contributes significantly to CO₂ emissions, urging communities to adopt mindful eating habits. Prof. Ganti S. Murthy discussed integrating Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) with sustainability. Concepts like Nishkama Karma (selfless action) & Loka Sangraha (social welfare) provided a spiritual foundation for sustainability, promoting collective good & responsible action. The event showcased Bharatiya traditions as timeless guides for sustainable living, inspiring attendees to rethink their connection with nature. Key takeaways included establishing a Centre of Excellence at GEV, collaborative initiatives with IITs & innovations like microgrid systems for renewable energy. The conference reinforced the power of rooted values & mindful living to catalyze transformative environmental solutions. Let us turn concerns into actions & consumption into mindful contribution by embracing sustainability, responsibility & harmony—the Bharatiya way.

Welcome to the Govardhan School of Sustainability Newsletter Vasundhara! We are excited to share the latest updates, achievements, and ongoing projects from our vibrant community dedicated to sustainable living. In this edition, you'll find inspiring stories about Govardhan Ecovillage's recognition in the UN Biodiversity Report at COP16 in Colombia, the Swachhta Hi Seva campaign, study abroad programs, the internship fair at KJ Somaiya University, eco-discovery tours, and the impactful contributions of our passionate volunteers. Join us in this journey and discover how you too can make a positive impact on our planet. 🌍 For internships and experiential learning programs, Join our WhatsApp group. https://lnkd.in/dnPN2aqD Download the newsletter now and be part of our journey towards a sustainable tomorrow! Best regards,  School of Sustainability  Govardhan Ecovillage

Students from the final year Civil Engineering department at Datta Meghe College of Engineering, Airoli, visited Govardhan Eco Village to explore the Eco-Discovery Program. They were truly mesmerized by the innovative green technologies within the campus, including the sustainable Green Building designs, the advanced Soil Biotechnology Plant, and the efficient Rainwater Harvesting structures. The visit offered them valuable insights into eco-friendly engineering practices and how sustainable solutions can create a positive impact on the environment. To explore our Eco-Discovery tour, contact us at [email protected] +91 +91 9226516929. #govardhanschoolofsustainability

We recently hosted two enthusiastic groups at Govardhan EcoVillage for an insightful Eco Discovery Tour!   5 final-year MSc students and a faculty member from SIES Indian Institute of Environmental Management, Juinagar, specializing in Sustainable Development & Environmental Management, joined us to explore practical sustainability practices.   They were accompanied by 19 students from Viva Diploma Engineering, eager to learn about our innovative eco-friendly technologies and sustainable initiatives.   Both groups engaged deeply with our projects and explored how nature, technology, and spirituality come together at Govardhan EcoVillage to create a model for sustainable living.   We’re grateful for their visit and look forward to inspiring more minds on the journey toward sustainability!   To explore sustainability projects, internships and experiential learning programs, contact us at [email protected]  +91- 9226516929

We are cordially inviting you to LiFE 2024 - Bharatiya Perspective on Sustainability Conference, organized by Govardhan Ecovillage in partnership with IIT Kanpur, IGBC, and hosted at NSE on November 27th. This conference will explore innovative approaches to sustainability through two key themes: Consciousness, Culture, and Sustainability and Leveraging Sustainability Economics. This event presents a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders on sustainable practices grounded in Indian traditions and innovative economic models. To participate, please register by November 20th at https://lnkd.in/dJbDB-na. Please note that registration is free. Date : 27th Nov'24 Time - 9am to 2pm Venue - NSE Auditorium, Ground Floor, BKC, Mumbai   We look forward to welcoming you! #govardhanschoolofsustainability

We were delighted to host 14 motivated students and 3 faculty members from Sardar Patel College of Engineering at Govardhan Ecovillage. During their visit, they explored our various sustainability initiatives, and these students will now conduct their final year B.Tech and M.Tech projects, focusing on practical, on-ground research and solutions. The B.Tech Civil Engineering students will focus on two key projects: 1. Green Building - Thermal Insulation   2. Groundwater Hydrology  The M.Tech Construction Management students will address important sustainability areas, including: 1. ISO - Occupational Health and Safety   2. Composting   3. Improving Water Management   4. Soil Biotechnology  We are thrilled to collaborate with these young engineers, supporting their hands-on learning and eagerly anticipating the innovative sustainability solutions they will develop. To explore sustainability projects, internships and experiential learning programs, contact us at [email protected]  +91- 9226516929 #SustainabilityInAction #GovardhanEcovillage #EngineeringForGood #SustainableDevelopment #govardhanschoolofsustainability

Celebrating Harmony with Nature at Govardhan Ecovillage  We reflect on our journey at Govardhan Ecovillage (GEV) towards a sustainable and balanced ecosystem. Nestled in the Sahyadri Mountains, GEV has transformed 100 acres into a thriving example of ecological harmony, with projects dedicated to sustainable water management, waste recycling, biodiversity, and regenerative agriculture. Our rainwater harvesting ponds, Premsarovar and the newly developed Suryakund, collect an impressive 11 crore liters of rainfall annually. This sustainable initiative replenishes groundwater levels, bringing us closer to our goal of water self-sufficiency. Through soil biotechnology, wastewater is treated and recycled, reducing pollution and conserving fresh water. Our commitment to green energy, organic farming, and waste-to-resource innovations exemplifies GEV’s mission to protect and restore nature. This day reminds us that sustaining the planet is not just a responsibility but a privilege. Let’s embrace practices that respect and restore our ecosystems, ensuring a greener, more resilient future for all. To explore sustainability projects, internships and experiential learning programs, contact us at [email protected]  +91- 9226516929

We were delighted to host 25 fourth-year B.Tech students from Mahindra University, Hyderabad, who visited Govardhan Ecovillage as part of their ongoing course on Management and Leadership Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita. The students participated in an insightful orientation session that served as a live case study, where they explored how GEV operates efficiently and effectively while staying true to its core principles of sustainability and spirituality. The session was followed by an interactive tour of our sustainability initiatives, giving the students a hands-on experience of our eco-friendly practices in action. It was a wonderful opportunity to share our approach towards sustainable development. To know more and Support our sustainability projects , contact us at [email protected] or +91-9226516929 #govardhanschoolofsustainability

Ready to make an impact on the future of sustainability? Join us at LiFE 2024 - Bharatiya Perspective on Sustainability, organized by Govardhan Ecovillage in association with IIT Kanpur and IGBC, and hosted by NSE. This landmark event will explore two key themes: 1. Consciousness, Culture, and Sustainability – exploring the link between sustainable living and consciousness-based practices rooted in Indian traditions.   2. Leveraging Sustainability Economics – discussing economic models that foster sustainability for a thriving future. Featured speakers include:   - Shri C P Radhakrishnan – Hon. Governor of Maharashtra   - Shri Bhupender Yadav – Hon. Minister, Government of India   - Shri S Gurumurthy – CA, Corporate & Legal Adviser   - HH Radhanath Swami – Spiritual Leader, Teacher, Author   - Shri Ashish Kumar Chauhan – MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange   - Prof. Varadraj Bapat – IIT Bombay   - Prof. Ganti S Murthy – IIT Indore, National Coordinator - IKS   - Ar. Hiten Sethi – Founder, HSA   - HG Gauranga Das – Director, Govardhan Ecovillage  Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, engage, and drive change. Register by November 10th at [https://lnkd.in/dGsgsd7Q). #LiFE2024 #SustainabilityLeadership #BharatiyaPerspective #govardhanschoolofsustainability

We are thrilled to announce that Govardhan Ecovillage has been featured in the Faiths for Biodiversity’s Faiths at the Forefront of Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) Implementation Report at the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity in Cali, Colombia! This report highlights the vital contributions of faith-based organizations towards achieving a nature-positive world. At Govardhan Ecovillage, we believe humanity’s discord with nature is at the root of our current planetary crises, and we’re committed to reversing biodiversity loss through restorative approaches. Our "Seeds for Life" program, led by Govardhan Rural Development, preserves indigenous seed varieties and promotes sustainable agriculture. Working with 2206 marginal farmer families, we’re protecting biodiversity and fostering sustainable livelihoods through heirloom seed cultivation. Read the full report: https://lnkd.in/g-RK73QX