Earth Hour Goes Beyond the Hour

NEWSLETTER IND PANDA 2011

Earth Hour Goes beyond the hour From SG & CEO’s desk Published by: WWF- India, 172-B , Dear Friends, Lodhi Estate, The monsoons are once again upon us, bringing succor from the summer heat and also hope for the New Delhi 110 003, millions who depend on the rains for agriculture in this part of the world. This is also the time for “Van Tel: 011 - 41504797 Mahotsava” the festival of planting saplings that is celebrated with enthusiasm across India. We at WWF India run a campaign to promote tree planting. Our “adopt a tree" programme aims to provide free www.ww? ndia.org saplings to those who wish to plant them and care for them. We endeavor to carry out such activities across India through our branch and field offices and many individuals join hands in taking this programme Editorial Board: forward. Such efforts which encourage individuals to reconnect with the natural world are seen as an important way forward to inculcate respect and care for Mother Nature, which is so central to our cultural Dr. Dipankar Ghose and social ethos. Mita Nangia Goswami Dr. Parikshit Gautam India participated in Earth Hour again, on March 26, 2011, with unparalleled zest and zeal. With each Moulika Arabhi passing year, we observe a higher level of individual and organizational participation across the country. WWF is proud to have initiated this global awareness movement aimed towards providing a window for people to register their concerns on the issue of climate change that looms ahead of us. I would like to Editor: thank all those who participated in the movement and committed to go beyond that one hour by making Shaila Sam considered changes in their daily energy consumption patterns.

At WWF, we work towards involving all sections of the society. Campaigns; sensitizing workshops for Assistant Editor: policy makers, media and civil society groups; capacity building support for enforcement agencies, Malika Gupta publications on various cross cutting themes for different interest groups and environment education programs amongst youth and schools and contact through the web including social media sites, are some of the solutions we have initiated to continuously engage with the public. Special inputs: Aarti Khosla Today, as our ecological footprint far exceeds the capacity of our planet, the need of the hour is an attitudinal shift in our lifestyle patterns. This is only feasible when society is educated on the consequences of over exploitation of our natural resources. The Energy Report, the Living Planet report- all speak of the Designed & printed by: urgent need to make such lifestyle changes. Unity Content Services

As we continue to reach out to more and more people, we are happy to share small success stories from (www.unitycontentservices.com) across the country- stories of hope, enterprise and commitment which are driving change locally and 9811315644 beyond. Though small steps, each of them is crucial to the journey of conserving India's natural heritage. The current issue of Panda documents some of these stories. The story of the young Pardhi boy in Madhya Pradesh; promoting adoption of sustainable clam fishing practices at Ashtamudi lake in Kerala to protect the lake ecosystem; the success of the Green Hiker campaign and regular engagement with small and medium wooden handicraft industries culminating in an increased interest towards responsible wood trade thus conserving the forests, are instances of some of the changes we are proud to have influenced.

The challenges are many but what keeps us going is the goodwill we receive from all our readers and supporters. We continue to work with you steadfast in transforming the way environment is perceived and conserved. Your feedback is important in moulding the future direction of our work, so do keep writing to us.

Ravi Singh SG&CEO

From the Editor's Desk Dear Readers,

As you read through this issue of the Panda we hope you will be able to better understand the issues faced by our team. How we meet this head-on with passion and commitment to the cause! Our next issue on “Forests” will throw light on various factors that play a crucial role in conserving our forests. Contributions are welcome from all our readers on this issue. Please mail the same at [email protected]. Your stories/articles must reach us by August 30th.

Happy reading

Shaila Sam CONTENTS

SPECIAL FOCUS STATE CONSERVATION INITIATIVES

Earth Hour – Goes beyond the hour 01 Karnataka 19

Kerala 20 EVENTS Orissa 20 Maharashtra 21 World Wetlands Day at Keoladeo 07 Goa Green Hiker - Encouraging responsible tourism 08 21 Madhya Pradesh Tiger Series – A novel message on tiger conservation 09 22 Andhra Pradesh 22 STRAIGHT FROM THE FIELD Himachal Pradesh 23

The tiger saviour: Story of a Pardhi boy 10 INTERNATIONAL

PROJECT UPDATES Energy Report: Safe Energy For All By 2050 24

Mainstreaming climate change in Himalayan states 11

WWF-National Law University, Delhi 13 offer a course in Urban Management SAWEN to monitor wildlife trade 15 Saving the clam clan 16 GFTN-Switch Asia programme- 17 building capacity towards responsible wood trade 1 SPECIAL FOCUS SPECIAL FOCUS

Whether it was the Governments and Corporations who worked closely with their stakeholders to educate them on the merits of Earth Hour the campaign, or the innumerable schools and colleges that promoted and observed Earth Hour, or the individuals who ran a full-fledged Goes beyond the hour campaign in their cities - each of them owned the campaign and ensured its success. This year Earth Hour went beyond the hour with millions switching off non-essential lights for an Earth Hour used every possible channel and hour while also committing to more actions for a medium to send the message across the social sustainable lifestyle. spectrum and attained a unique distinction of appealing to people across cultures, socio- Earth Hour 2011 marks the start of a new phase economic backgrounds and diversities. From the for this extraordinary peoples' movement. The President of India to the seven-year-old boy of a all new '60+' logo for Earth Hour 2011 represents rickshaw puller in Bhopal, everyone switched off a commitment to add a positive act for the and offered the greatest testimony to the reach planet everyday and not just for an hour. and the democratic nature of the campaign.

Earth Hour is a movement that men, women and children across the nation support with equal enthusiasm and commitment © WWF-India

2 The Rashtrapati Bhawan, the respective official residences of the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister all observed Earth Hour as a great show of support and reiteration of India's sincere commitment to the cause of environment conservation.

Eminent landmarks in New Delhi – monuments and malls, well known hotel chains, government buildings, the National Stadium, National Gallery of Modern Art, big shopping areas like Connaught Place – came out strongly to go beyond the hour.

In Mumbai, popular landmarks such as the Gateway of India, Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Bandra Worli Sea Link, headquarters of several public and private sector organizations like Reserve Bank of India, Air India, ICICI, Enthusiastic volunteers participate in the Earth Hour cyclothon HSBC dimmed in support. © WWF-India The city of Bangalore - an Earth Hour stronghold since On the night of 26th March, from candle light vigils to 2009, yet again showcased its genuine support towards musical performances, to even prayers in darkness, Earth Hour by stepping up participation from the hundreds of events and activities were organized across the Government, citizens and Corporations. Lights were turned country as people joined the largest global campaign on off at Brigade Road, ING Vysya stood out in its support by climate change. inaugurating its first solar ATM in an urban space, and over 400 project teams at Infosys pledged their support among at Globally, Earth Hour 2011 witnessed a record breaking least ten other meaningful initiatives from a single city. participation of 134 countries. Recognizable landmarks across the world stood in darkness for the hour which Resident Welfare Associations as big as one thousand include the Eiffel Tower, the London Eye, Big Ben, Empire households – Hiranandani Gardens- the skyscraper State Building, Dubai's Burj al Arab Hotel, Grenada's residential towers in Mumbai suburbs managed to get Alhambra, Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer statue, participation from all the buildings in the area, so did Athens' Acropolis, India Gate, Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, Rohini - Delhi's, perhaps the country's biggest residential the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and the set-up. On the other hand, towns such as Kakinada had over Sydney Opera House. 2000 people on the main street joining the walk in support of Earth Hour and a small school in Sagar Island in the India's third year of Earth Hour witnessed massive Sunderbans had its pupils switching off in support. participation across the country - surprising in its penetration across levels of education, occupation and income. Over 120 Indian cities expressed their solidarity for Over 20 lakh students across India participated in the event WWF's largest initiative to commit to a better lifestyle and in some form or the other - by organizing special Earth Hour consumption. Mega cities like New Delhi, Mumbai and assemblies with eco friendly activities, attending lectures by Bangalore were epicentres with extensive participation WWF staff or by participating in certain events. across the cities and their suburbs. So were tier II, III cities and small towns. Reports from Erode, Latur, Panna, Earth Hour 2011 became the largest voice of citizens across Chindwara, Etawah, Umbergaon, Jorhat, Darlaghat, Mandi, the country to fight climate change. Khammam, Akhnoor, Nowshera, Asansol, Kakinada, Betul, to a tribal village in Satpura-Maikal landscape in Madhya Contributed by Aarti Khosla Pradesh, were diverse, innovative and inspiring stories of the power of each one of us to make a difference.

The capital city of the country experienced India Gate's ceremonial switch off at 8.30 p.m. in the presence of the Delhi Chief Minister, Ms. Sheila Dikshit, along with the Earth Hour brand ambassador, well known Bollywood actor, Ms. Vidya Balan. Mr. Jim Leape, Director General, WWF-International chose to spend his Earth Hour in India and witnessed the movement first hand.

3 SPECIAL FOCUS People Speak

Excited to see the commitment of Delhites at India Gate, Mr. Jim Leape, Director General, WWF International, said, “The incredible participation in Earth Hour this year, is a testimony to a great concern about the health of the living resources on which we all depend, and a recognition that each of us can play a part in building a sustainable future.”

Mr. Jairam Ramesh, Minister of State for Environment and Forests, Government of India, said, “I would like to congratulate WWF- India on bringing down climate change to the level of an individual in an innovative and interesting format. Earth Hour gives the message that individuals too can make a difference to the problem of climate change'’

Speaking on the occasion, The Chief Minister of Delhi, Ms Sheila Dikshit said, “Delhi has come together again this year and pledged its support for Earth Hour, India. The city plunged into darkness for a brighter tomorrow and we hope that Earth Hour sensitizes each one of us for making the shift to a better lifestyle.”

Brand Ambassador Vidya Balan expressed her solidarity to Earth Hour 2011: “I am both privileged and elated to be part of Earth Hour 2011. It is encouraging to see the support that our citizens have lent to Earth Hour. I participate in Earth Hour and pledge to take action even beyond the hour. Each one of us has the power to make a difference. We just need to be conscious of it and make wise choices. When each of us takes simple steps, together these actions add up.”

4 “It was a very good opportunity to work with WWF for a noble cause (Earth Hour). It shows that people from all over the world are now ready to raise their voices against environmental and social issues, if provided with a platform and WWF is a living example of this.” Vikash Munshi - Volunteer

Infosys employees participating enthusiastically Earth Hour 2011 was a unique and probably © WWF-India one of the best experiences of my life. It was the first time that I felt like doing something I'll keep my cell phone on 'power saving for our planet. It was nice to see people from mode' so that it consumes less battery and all age groups come together for our better requires less charging. Besides that, I'll future. ensure the non-essential power consuming "Let's get together for our Earth devices (UPS, lamps, emergency light) don't The planet that gave us birth remain plugged-in once we are off to sleep. – Let's make efforts to change the current Vasudha Pant picture And get together to make a better future." Abhishek Rathore, Volunteer Tree plantation, Saying NO to plastic and wearing organic cotton is all that we do to save our planet. But now, it is time to go Different ways to spend Earth Hour: Attend a beyond this and share the spectrum of local Earth Hour event or organize your own recondite knowledge on 'drastic climate by throwing an Earth Hour street party with change' and global warming with those who your neighbours. Gather family and friends are unaware of this and to persuade those for a night picnic in your local park and look who seem to be apathetic towards this grave at the stars. Enjoy a candlelight family concern. Let us all educate our family, friends dinner. Organize a treasure hunt in the dark. and go further and educate the masses in Take your dog out for a night walk. Have a general. Let them too aid us in bringing a candle-lit bath. Sit in the dark and share change - one which is for good. – Aj stories. Organize a family night, playing Thakkar board games. – Sadhana PhuloreI, Volunteer My classmates and I are going for a 5 km Earth Hour walk with candles and lanterns. I I have now started to walk to places that are just hope it does not rain! – Venkat Rao close by therefore reducing the use of my two wheeler. We have completely stopped using plastic covers and take cotton bags for I have no right to waste the resources that shopping. We switch off lights and fans when belong to the society. I take the pledge of not not in use. – Hari Krishna Gogulapaati wasting anything from now. I will consume only as much as I can use, be it food, power or water. – Eshan Trisal

5 SPECIAL FOCUS Indian Rock Band Euphoria performs at India Gate on the night of Earth Hour © WWF-India

6 EVENTS World Wetlands Day at Keoladeo Mr. Ramesh also released the World Wetlands Day posters (both in English and Hindi) and awarded certificates of appreciation to 27 school students for undertaking conservation activities in their local areas.

WWF-India also organised a 'Bal Mela' for children from the neighbouring villages of the Keoladeo National Park, initiating them into interactive learning in vermi composting, rainwater harvesting, sustainable pasture technique and puppet making. The evening comprised enthralling performances by folk artists on the theme of water- a perfect amalgamation of fun and awareness.

Earlier, on 27-28th January 2011, WWF-India in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department and Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority had conducted an excursion for school students to Surajpur wetland. A total of 40 students from eight schools Puppet making workshop at Bharatpur participated in the excursion. The Surajpur wetland, located © WWF-India in Dadri tehsil of district Gautam Budh Nagar, U.P, is a The theme for World Wetlands Day this year was 'Forests for WWF-India project site being monitored by its Freshwater Water and Wetlands'. The occasion was celebrated on 2nd Programme. and 3rd February, and the official venue appropriately chosen by the Ministry of Environment and Forests was, The excursion began with a brief introduction to the Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur – home to a large variety Surajpur wetland and its avifaunal diversity by Dr. Asghar of indigenous and migratory wetland birds. WWF-India has Nawab (Senior Project Coordinator) and Dr. Parikshit been working in this Park for over a decade, focusing on core Gautam (Director, Freshwater and Wetlands Programme). conservation activities, policy planning as well as community The students and teachers then went on a nature trail, where engagement programmes. they found numerous species of birds like the Sarus Crane, Eurasian Spoonbill, Purple Moorhen and Spot-billed Duck, As part of the event, MoEF and the Rajasthan State Forest besides a herd of blue bulls. Department, in collaboration with WWF-India and Wetlands International, organised a technical workshop on Wetland “Surajpur is like an oasis of nature in the midst of a desert Conservation and Management Rules 2010. The workshop of urban civilization,” said Gargi Ghosh from The Banyan was specially important as MoEF and representatives of Tree School, perfectly describing the beauty of a wetland, several states presented and discussed the nuances of the and leading to a discussion among students regarding the newly notified rules incorporated in the Environment importance of managing a wetland like Surajpur and the Protection Act 1986. The notification of these rules is need to encourage the public to experience this biodiversity considered to be of great significance in the conservation of first hand. wetlands in India.

The workshop was attended by top officials of the MoEF including Mr. M.F. Farooqui, Additional Secretary, who was the chief guest, and Dr. S. Kaul, Advisor to MoEF. Mr. Kaul also made a gripping presentation on national wetlands scenario.

Earlier, Mr. Jairam Ramesh, Minister of State for Environment and Forests, announced the launch of Siberian Crane Breeding Centre, and assured that the water supply issue in Keoladeo would be resolved in the coming year. Painting competition for kids at Bharatpur © WWF-India

7 EVENTS Green Hiker Encouraging Responsible Tourism

As a part of its Green Hiker campaign, WWF-India, in “As I lingered after my stay, reluctant to leave, my host had collaboration with Lonely Planet Magazine, India, organized a twinkle in his eye. There's a compulsory rule to this home the Ecotrail Travelogue Contest. The winners were stay, he said: Every satisfied guest has to plant a tree before awarded on 28th January 2011 at the WWF-India leaving! Joyfully muddying my hands planting an oak- Secretariat. Mr. R.H. Khwaja, Secretary, Ministry of sapling, I wondered why resort owners hadn't thought of Tourism, was the Chief Guest for the event and gave away this remarkable conservation idea!” said Indu prizes to the first three winners. In addition, seven special Balachandran, 2nd prize winner. mention awards were also given. “Darkness and silence: they add to the grandeur of the The panel of judges comprised Vardhan Kondvikar, Editor, Himalayas; to its enigma and its charm. Let's keep them as Lonely Planet Magazine, India; Prerna Singh Bindra, Writer they are – Pristine. Unblemished. We're doing it for and Journalist and Rita Sawhney, Photojournalist. ourselves. We owe it to ourselves. Let's be selfish.” said Sheela Jaywant, Special Mention Award. Eleven inspiring, enchanting and descriptive travel writings and experiences of nature friendly travel in the high altitude Himalayas won the awards. These articles can be read at http://greenhikercampaign.blogspot.com/2011/01/ecotrail- travelogue-winning-entries.html

Winners received trekking and camping gear and free subscriptions to the Indian edition of Lonely Planet Magazine. As a bonanza, the magazine also published the first three award-winning entries in its March issue.

The award ceremony was accompanied by a photo exhibition by renowned Himalayan photographer Mr. Ashok Dilwali. This complimented the spirit of the Himalayas and the great travel writings.

“My Himalayan journey has sharply exposed the fragility of both the local people and the traveller when nature's balance is disrupted. We all have a lot to learn from Ladakh's well balanced traditional society if we want to Winners of the Ecotrail Travelogue contest along with the panel of judges continue to be able to safely enjoy one of the world's most © WWF-India magnificent and beautiful environments,” said Katherine Joanna Johnson, 1st prize winner. 8 Tiger Series A novel message on tiger conservation

Mr Jairam Ramesh unveiling the coffee table book ‘Tiger Talk’ © WWF-India WWF-India launched its 'Tiger Series' comprising an The limited edition WWF signature tiger watch collection, exclusive coffee table book, ‘Tiger Talk’, WWF signature tiger both for men and women, was also launched. The watch watch collection and a photo exhibition on 17th March 2011, collection has been designed by WWF-India and at The Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi. manufactured by Titan Industries Limited. Ms. Feroze Gujral, a socialite and a wildlife enthusiast, launched the The unique series is an ongoing innovative tool for watches. communicating our conservation effort and inspiring people to take positive action for saving the tiger in the wild. WWF-India in partnership with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations launched the Tiger Talk' photography A magical sufi musical performance by Bollywood baron exhibition at the ICCR, Azad Bhawan Gallery. Dr. Karan Kunal Ganjawala, Ranjit Barot, the Nizami Qawwalis, Singh inaugurated the exhibition on the unsung heroes of Sridhar Parthasarthy, Sabir Khan and Hitesh Modak made tiger conservation. The exhibition has been sent to Toronto the evening even more special. as part of Pravasi Bhartiya Divas by ICCR, and will be globe- trotting from here on. The 'Tiger Talk' looks at tigers through the eyes of people who truly believe in their conservation value and have been WWF-India believes that such occasions create awareness passionately protecting them in the wild. on the need for protecting tigers, give interesting information, garner support and bring to the fore hidden The book captures their stories of love, courage and hope. stories of conservation champions. Seasoned photographer Manoj Kumar Jain captured the different moods in his photographs. The book is designed by Ogilvy and Mather.

9 EVENTS STRAIGHT FROM THE FIELD I am Raaj day, I joined my brother (Lal Bhata, a 12 Kuwar) and my brothers-in-law The Tiger Saviour: year old Pardhi (Malis and Kallu) in game boy studying in hunting. class III at the Story of a Pardhi School Deep into the forest, they were of Narangi apparently searching for the Baag, Panna. footprints of a large animal near Hunting for the pond. After tracing the Pardhi boy survival is my pugmarks, they put circular iron family traps over the pugmarks and tradition. My family comprises my camouflaged them. mother and my brother. Since the beginning, wild animals have We then waited on a tree top. drawn my attention. I used to go After about 2-3 hours, we heard a to the forest with my family loud roar, and the next moment everyday hunting for wild boars, saw the animal trapped. Everyone partridges and quails. except me rejoiced at this. After reaching the spot, I saw a tigress I once saved a trapped partridge in the trap. As she struggled hard and tamed it against my mother's to move out of it, my brother put a wishes. I called it Salman Khan! shovel in her mouth to completely He gradually became a very good incapacitate her. She cried with friend of mine. I learnt the pain and suffering. Within a few different patterns of sounds it moments, she fell. made. A short while after this, they As I grew, I began to see a change ruthlessly ripped her skin off. I in the hunting trends in our had never been more disturbed society. Hunting had gone beyond before! The thoughts about the wild boars and partridges under tigress's cubs, her family kept me the influence of some people. up all night. That was when I They had started hunting for pledged to never let any of my tigers and leopards as well. One family members kill tigers or leopards.

I accompanied them the next time they went out hunting. I carefully observed the areas where they hid the traps. I went back with my friend, removed the traps and threw them in the pond nearby. It reassured me that another tiger was not going to be killed. That night I slept somewhat relieved.

I thank my school for making me understand the importance of tigers and leopards. I believe that it is essential for us to change our family tradition. Saving just one tiger has made me so happy! My aim in the future is to save and protect wildlife! Tiger © Khalid Pasha, TRAFFIC India

STRAIGHT FROM THE FIELD 10 A forest in central India © Ola Jennersten, WWF-Sweden

PROJECT UPDATES Climate change in Himalayan states

The Himalayan mountain ecosystems are likely to be among the most severely impacted as a result of climate change. A warmer climate will cause lower elevation habitats to shift to the upper elevation habitats replacing the alpine and sub alpine habitats. Also, changes in the depth of mountain snow peaks and glaciers, and changes in the seasonal melting can have irreversible impact on the mountain communities dependent on these resources. In the next 100 years, the earth's temperature is expected to increase by another 1.4 to 5.8 degree Celsius, which will have a lasting impact on human as well as plant and animal habitats, especially in the Himalayan region, where agriculture, human settlement, lakes and rivers, flora and fauna are highly sensitive to slight change in the climatic conditions.

The Indian Himalayan region supports around 13,000 species of flowering plants, i.e. nearly 50 per cent of all flowering plants in India. Majority of this flora is endemic to this region. The region is home to over 51 million people who practice agriculture and whose vulnerability is expected to increase on account of climate change. Ganges, Brahmaputra, Yamuna and other major Indian river systems originate in the Himalayas. A total of 1.3 billion people living on the vast basins downstream, amounting to about a fifth of the world's population, depend on Himalayan rivers for their water supply. Any changes in the Himalayan glacier dynamics and melting are expected to severely affect people in the Indian subcontinent.

11 PROJECT UPDATES In view of this, strategic efforts are being made at the national level to conserve fragile Himalayan ecosystems. The National Action Plan on Climate Change 2008 envisages 'National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem' as one of the eight missions to outline the existing and future policies and programmes addressing the issue of climate adaptation and mitigation in the Himalayan region. The mission attempts to address important issues concerning Himalayan glaciers and the associated hydrological consequences, biodiversity conservation and protection, and traditional knowledge societies and their livelihoods. At the state level, each Himalayan state is drawing up its Action Plan on Climate Change.

From January to March 2011, WWF-India in collaboration with the state institutions organized a series of stakeholder consultations in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The consultations were aimed at bringing together the stakeholders from the high altitude region and discuss the issues specific to them. The priority sectors identified from the perspective of High Altitude Region were tourism, agriculture, energy, hydropower, water resources, disaster management and forestry. Within these Himalayan states there is a significant variation in the importance assigned to each identified sector. In Jammu and Kashmir, disaster management was a priority sector while in Himachal Pradesh horticulture was the top concern.

The stakeholders in Uttarakhand felt the need for more research on impact of climate change in the state. In the Eastern Himalayan States, tourism, forestry and biodiversity were identified as the most significant sectors. The consultation has helped in constituting a group in each state which can give its recommendations for State Action Plan on Climate Change.

Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim, Laktsheden Theengh © WWF-India 12 WWF-National Law University, Delhi offer a course in Urban Management

'Clean Cities don't just happen, they must be planned for; and they need to be managed'.

View of a city road © Ragini, WWF-India

Just over a year after the delivery capacity of urban issuing an internal circular in this successful collaboration with administrators and elected regard, making it an essential IGNOU, WWF India's Centre for representatives is crucial for component for its employees and Environmental Law (CEL) added harmonious civil and urban administrators. another feather to its cap. CEL environmental governance. and the National Law University, The programme will provide Delhi (NLUD) will now jointly run One of the best ways to tackle a interdisciplinary analysis of the a post graduate diploma situation like this is to strengthen current urban issues with special programme in 'Urban the human resource pool of emphasis on synthesis of urban Environmental Management'. efficient urban managers. The laws with environmental new diploma programme is an concerns. The new programme aims to train initiative in this context. and build capacity of the urban It would not only cover urban laws administrators and personnel by The first batch of the one year PG and policies, but also address providing them an in-depth Diploma programme will current urban problems related to knowledge and understanding of commence from July 2011. The infrastructure, services, the existing urban laws, by-laws programme will focus on capacity population, migration, shelter, etc and policies. The key objective of building and delivery in the light of both international the programme is to provide development of urban and national perspectives policy prescriptions, innovations administrators and personnel, presented through actual case for better urban governance, private sector employees, the studies. information and training inputs to academia and NGOs. It will not all those concerned with only provide the learners a The thematic areas to be covered are: improving living conditions and broader perspective of existing quality of life for urban citizens. urban law/policies, but also train 1) Course I: Introduction to Urban them to propose radical changes Governance-Concepts and Whether in the visible strands of necessary in such laws for their Practices urban life, like deteriorating convergence with environmental infrastructure and housing, or the governance and sustainable 2) Course II: Laws and Policies invisible heartache of poverty and development practices. pertaining to Environment deprivation, it is the urban administrator who faces the most The programme is being 3) Course III: Laws and Policies difficult task today. The civic technically supported by pertaining to Urbanisation bodies are responsible for Gesellschaft für Internationale delivering some semblance of a Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the 4) Course IV: Urban Legal and Policy decent life to its citizens. Ministry of Urban Development Frameworks Therefore, strengthening the (MoUD). MoUD shall also be 5) Course V: Urban Development and Environment Protection Mechanisms in India 13 PROJECT UPDATES TRAFFIC update

Participants of the SAWEN meting in Bhutan © TRAFFIC India SAWEN to monitor wildlife trade The eight countries of South Asia – India, Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives and Sri Lanka – have established the South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN) (officially launched in January 2011) to co-operate in strengthening wildlife law enforcement in the region.

The SAWEN meeting was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Royal Government of Bhutan, with technical support from TRAFFIC and WWF Bhutan. The participants included country delegates and experts from the governments of the member countries, inter-governmental organizations and non-governmental organizations including the CITES Secretariat, Interpol, ASEAN-WEN, Global Tiger Forum, World Bank, USAID, WWF and TRAFFIC.

In a message read out during the inaugural session, Mr Jairam Ramesh, Minister of Environment and Forests, Government of India, stated the avowed goal of strengthening the regional co-operation among the eight South Asian countries in combating illegal trade of wild animals. Training in wildlife law enforcement As a part of the Strategic Development Dialogue (SDD) between the Governments of India and the UK, TRAFFIC India, in association with the Wildlife Institute of India and the State Forest Departments, conducted a series of wildlife law enforcement training workshops in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.

The workshops were attended by officials of the DRI (Directorate of Revenue Intelligence), SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal), police, Railway Protection Force, customs, postal and transport departments and officials from the respective forest departments.

The main aim of these workshops was to sensitize the participants on issues related to illegal wildlife trade and give them an overview of the latest tools and technology available for combating such crime. ‘Musibat Na Mole Lein’ TRAFFIC India's five minute film “Don't Buy Trouble” that captures glimpses of the burgeoning illegal wildlife trade in India that threatens the country's precious flora and fauna is now available in Hindi. The Hindi version of the film titled “Musibat Na Mole Lein” was released during a wildlife law enforcement training workshop in Mumbai in January this year. The film is a crucial part of TRAFFIC India's consumer awareness campaign that advises against buying illegal wildlife products. The film was shot by renowned wildlife filmmaker Himanshu Malhotra and has been produced with support from WWF-India.

14 Saving the clam clan If you enjoy seafood under a shack besides a beach or love those yummy tinned frozen clams that you just bought from a store, here is what you've got to know!

A major portion of the clam export comes from the Ashtamudi estuary, which is the second largest wetland ecosystem in Kerala. It takes pride in being home to 97 species of fish and 5-10 species of bivalves. Approximately 20,000 tones of clams are exploited annually from this estuary. The meat of these clams is consumed by humans while the shell is used in the cement and carbide industry.

The short neck clam, a species of clams that has a higher commercial value due to its taste, contributes about 12000- 15000 tones of the total export. This trade fetches around Rs 4-5 crore in foreign exchange for our country. These clams are mainly exported to Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Australia and United Arab Emirates. About 1000-1500 fishermen directly and 3000 fishermen indirectly are dependent on this trade.

In the 90s, over exploitation and indiscriminate fishing practices resulted in their sudden depletion. Through the intervention of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, the district administration, State Fisheries Department, Kollam and the clam fishermen of the region, regulations were formulated for the controlled harvesting of clams. These included the use of nets, ban on fishing from December to February (spawning period) and restriction on the export of frozen clam to 1400 nos/kg.

These conservation measures regulated the exploitation of clams. However, to make the short neck clam fishery sustainable, a need was felt for long term concerted efforts in this dynamic tropical estuary.

It was in this light that WWF introduced Marine Stewardship Certification (MSC) in 2009-10 as a long term sustainability intervention tool to prevent unsustainable exploitation of clams. Fisheries certification helps ensure effective management of fisheries through controlled harvesting for ecological balance, preferred supplier status and visible commitment to sustainability. Certification respects the long-term interests of people dependent on fishing for food and livelihood to the extent that it remains consistent with ecological sustainability.

As a first step towards fisheries certification, WWF-India has completed the pre assessment of the short neck clam fishery for eco-labelling. This is a new concept, and has been introduced in India for the first time. After addressing the gaps mentioned in the pre assessment report (documentation of impact of clam fishery on the ecosystem, implementation of the regulatory measures by local governing council etc.), WWF- India will move to the next step of complete certification. Currently the research gaps are being addressed by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute.

Contributed by Vinod Malayilethu A fisherman holds the clams in his hands ©WWF-India 15 PROJECT UPDATES 16 GFTN-SWITCH ASIA PROGRAMME BUILDING CAPACITY TOWARDS RESPONSIBLE WOOD TRADE Under the auspices of Global Forest Trade and Network-India and the SWITCH Asia programme, a special training workshop was conducted on design development and marketing strategy. The workshop was aimed towards sensitising small and medium wooden handicrafts enterprises on the responsible usage and marketing of wooden handicrafts.

The training was organized in March 2011. Saharanpur and Nagina were chosen as the target areas for the implementation of the EC- Switch Asia programme due to their locational and commercial importance in timber trade.

Saharanpur:

Ÿ Famous for hand crafted wooden furniture Ÿ Exports high quality furniture within India and abroad Ÿ A hub for timber production

Nagina:

Ÿ Famous for wooden handicrafts, especially ebony work Ÿ Also known as 'wood-craft city’

It was clear from the earlier workshops and meetings that the SMEs were facing a setback in their business from the growing An artisan at work global competition and the rising cost of timber, which had © Malika/ WWF-India

17 PROJECT UPDATES affected procurement of quality timber and production of Mr. Aun A Jafrey, Executive, Producer Relations, Asha high quality products. The workmanship and the Handicrafts, presented the International Market Trends, craftsmanship had further deteriorated with an increase in 2011-2012 from the buyers perspective and laid emphasis on the use of inferior quality wood like mango, jamun and kekar Sustainable Fair Trade Management System (SFTMS). He with the intention of driving down prices to retain the mentioned that if small traders are associated with brands buyers. like FSC, GFTN, SFTM, it would surely help them sustain in the international market, which has conscious buyers with The changes in the global timber market are beginning to increased product desirability towards such brands. have an impact on the Indian wood carving industry in the international market. Hence, a need was felt to build The training workshop was attended by various stakeholders capacity among the wood processing industries of including retailers, manufacturers, processors, wood Saharanpur and Nagina. The quintessential objective of the handicraft exporters, representatives of trade associations, training programme was to conserve the traditional forest officials from Uttar Pradesh and representatives of inherited art of the Saharanpur and Nagina artisans while certifying bodies. ensuring a sustainable supply of wood.

Art and design improvement techniques were taught that reduce wood consumption and hence reduce the cost. They were also trained in innovative methods of reusing and recycling the wood waste and apprised of responsible wood trade, certification schemes and sustainable fair trade management systems to help them improve the image of their organization and fetch premium prices for their products.

A training workshop in progress at Saharanpur © WWF-India

18 STATE CONSERVATION INITIATIVES Karnataka - Promoting fuel use efficiency People living in the vicinity of forests depend on them for their fuelwood needs. It is in this context that the Karnataka state office of WWF-India, in association with Corelogic, sourced fuel-efficient smokeless stoves (Envirofit) for the villagers of Hodadoddi.

This village is situated on the borders of a wildlife sanctuary and its inhabitants heavily depend on the sanctuary for their fuelwood requirement. A total of 50 stoves were distributed in the first lot and more are to follow.

Corelogic and WWF in association with Parisara Premi Sangha, the pro-conservation youth group of Hosadoddi, had conducted a preliminary socio-economic survey of the village with an aim to decrease its dependence on the sanctuary for fuelwood requirements, at the same time reducing their carbon emissions. The stoves have demonstrated a substantial decrease in fuelwood Smokeless stoves being distributed to the villages consumption. Necessary monitoring protocols have been ©WWF-India put in place for proper evaluation of this conservation effort. Kerala - Conservation initiatives The field team at Kerala is working on 'Development of Management and Technology, Vagamon. An amateur Nature Sustainable Livelihood Security Index for the Vembanad Photography Competition was announced on the theme of Lake' and a comprehensive survey of the 'Status of Marine 'Forests of Kerala' which received about 36 entries. A select Turtles along the entire Indian Coast'. Various stakeholders group of 30 students were taken for a 'Forest Field Visit'. including the fishermen community, coastal residents, local self government representatives, religious establishments are being consulted to understand the issues involved.

Workshops and events - A two-day workshop on 'Strengthening Wildlife Law Enforcement in India' was conducted by TRAFFIC India, Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Wildlife Institute of India and DEFRA-UK.

A series of events were conducted while celebrating the World Wetlands Day from 31st January to 2nd February. School children were taken for a field trip to Mundery Kadavu, Kattampally wetlands. Painting, poster making and quiz competitions were also conducted.

WWF-India Kerala State Office observed World Forestry Day with a two-day programme in association with DC School of Olive Ridley turtles mating © Sejal Worah/ WWF-India

19 STATES Orissa - Protecting Olive Ridley hatcheries

The Orissa State Office of WWF-India is assisting the State The local Nandan Kanan Zoo has also asked WWF team to Forest Department in setting up and managing Olive Ridley conduct awareness programmes on wetlands for schools. turtle hatcheries at places marked with sporadic nesting. The The students were apprised of the wetlands of the state team is also assisting in the protection of the Rushikulaya through films/ documentaries, and the need to conserve mass nesting rookery. Day and night patrolling by local them. Cleaning of the lake bank, nature trails, rallies were volunteers and fencing off the rookery to protect it from feral also organized to sensitize the visitors about wetland dogs, jackals, hyenas and jungle cats has ensured zero conservation. predation. Awareness camps on turtle friendly fishing techniques were conducted with the fishermen community in the villages close to the rookery.

A survey of the existing nesting sites of Olive Ridleys' is being conducted in order to evaluate their present status and threats, if any, so that strategies for better management and conservation of the rookeries can be planned.

20 Maharashtra - Organizes photography competition The Maharashtra state office conducted nature trails to Byculla Zoo, Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary, Nehru Science Centre and the Bhimashanker Wildlife Sanctuary with a focus on medicinal plants and the giant Indian Squirrel, the state animal of Maharashtra.

Workshops and events - To celebrate World Wetlands Day on 2nd February, WWF- Maharashtra office organised a photography competition in association with the Young Environmentalist Programme Trust. The competition received over 250 photographs from across the country as well as from countries like USA, Singapore, Dubai, Pakistan, Switzerland and France.

In another event, the Godrej Mangrove Centre invited WWF to be a part of an educational exhibition on 'Ramsar Convention' and to participate in the national seminar on “Sustainable development – vision 2025”. It presented a poster on the 'Occurrence of rotifers and its relation to the water quality during the bioremediation process in Lake Kacharali' (Thane, Maharashtra).

Earth Hour on 26th March was observed across Mumbai where the team had worked for the promotion of the campaign through its volunteers and contacts. The event was locally supported by BEST, Reliance, Frooti, AIAI, TAJ group, etc.

Goa - Identifying tiger corridors The Goa State Office has laid in order to sensitize them about the emphasis on the identification of conservation issues related to flora tiger corridors and collection of and fauna. evidence and remains of prey carcasses. The state office has also been instrumental in rescuing wildlife in The state office released posters on collaboration with the State Forest snakes, butterflies and frogs of Goa, Department. Apart from this, and organized several nature trails WWF-Goa has been appointed to for school students and general carry out a survey on trees in the public in different parts of the state Panaji municipal area.

21 STATES Madhya Pradesh - Training indigenous people in wildlife protection

Pardhis, a tribal community, live in make-shift houses close to forests. They are traditionally skilled hunters. The younger generation also follows in the footsteps of their parents.

In order to educate them about the need to protect wildlife, the Madhya Pradesh State Office of WWF started a residential school in Panna in association with Government agencies.

These children are given vocational training in knitting, carpentry, embroidery, painting and are made aware of the need to conserve nature and wildlife through workshops, lectures, movies on wildlife, competitions, campaigns, nature trails etc.

Andhra Pradesh - Raises awareness about Earth Hour

WWF-Andhra Pradesh state office in association with Kakinada Municipal Corporation, Nyros Technologies, Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board, Hotel Ishwarya Grand, Regency Ceramics and WWF student volunteers from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada, organized an event on Earth Hour at Kakinada.

A video message by film actors Nagarjuna Akkineni, Amala Akkineni, Sumanth and Dr. Ghazal Srinivas popularised the event in the state.

Be it the Joint Collector who appealed to the entire city to turn off the lights for the designated hour or the media promoting the message by constantly airing it, the movement got a lot of support from the entire city.

A day before Earth Hour, WWF Andhra Pradesh office conducted a workshop on energy audit for students of JNTU, Kakinada. The students from schools and colleges, Earth Hour at Andhra Pradesh government officials, NGOs and general public also joined ©WWF-India in the candle walk organised by WWF Andhra Pradesh office.

22 Himachal Pradesh - Documenting sacred grooves Sacred groves are a major component of environmental However, with the developing market economy, increasing protection. The concept seems to have emerged in traditional demand and unscientific exploitation of natural resources societies where people attached sacredness to various has adversely affected the health of these sacred groves. The species. Unknowingly, such traditional and cultural attitudes traditional practices of conservation by community have made a significant contribution towards conserving participation are also deteriorating. It has hence become many plant species. imperative to restore the cultural and natural heritage of the Himalayas. In Himachal Pradesh, the local myths and legends associated with sacred groves go a long way in preserving the forests It is in this regard that a three-year project on from destruction. There are several groves dedicated to a “Documentation of sacred and protected groves of particular deity (called Dev Van or 'devta ka jungle') where Himachal Pradesh and their woody flora” was undertaken one is not allowed to cut trees or even extract dry leaves from by WWF with the support of G.B. Pant Institute of the area. In these places many plants and animals are Himalayan Environment and Development, Almora. As a considered sacred. At higher altitudes, the sacred groves have part of the project, 378 sacred groves from Kinnaur, Kullu, Cedrus deodara and a few associated species viz. Pinus Solan, Sirmour, Mandi and Shimla were documented in the roxburghii, Pinus religiosa, Quercus semicarpifolia, first year. A WWF Himachal Pradesh office initiative, this Juniperus sp. as dominant species. In other areas the project will help in conserving the highly endangered flora dominant species include Shorea robusta, Popular ciliate, and fauna of this beautiful Himalayan landscape. Acacia catechu, Cassia fistula, Tectona grandis etc. The thick forests provide a good habitat for leopards, barking Contributed by Vandana Thapliyal deers, ghorals, black bears, hares, wolves and many more.

The sacred groves thus play a significant role in in situ conservation of biodiversity. They are a natural gene pool and act as a repository of rare and endemic species. They harbour plants of great ethno-botanical importance. The high density of plants also helps in soil and water conservation.

23 STATES INTERNATIONAL Energy Report: Safe Energy For All By 2050

Meeting the future energy demand through renewable energy to beat climate change and scarcity of hydrocarbons has been a matter of earnest concern. After over two years of intense research, The Energy Report breaks new ground with its global scope and consideration of total energy needs including transport, and making adequate and safe energy for all.

The Energy Report shows that in four decades we can have a world of vibrant economies and societies powered entirely by clean, cheap and renewable energy and with a vastly improved quality of life. According to WWF Director General, Mr Jim Leape, “We are offering an alternative scenario – far more promising and entirely achievable”.

The report shows that by 2050, power, transport, industrial and domestic energy needs would be met with only isolated residual uses of fossil and nuclear fuels – vastly reducing anxieties over energy security, pollution and not least, catastrophic climate change.

Energy efficiency in buildings, vehicles and industry would be a key ingredient, along with an increase in the energy needs met through electric power, renewably generated and supplied through smart grids.

According to this ambitious scheme of things, by 2050 total energy demand will be 15 percent lower than in 2005, despite increase in population, industrial output, freight and travel - and energy being made available to those currently not enjoying its benefits. The world would no longer rely on coal, or nuclear fuels, while international rules and cooperation limit potential environmental damage from biofuel production and hydroelectricity development.

Importantly, The Energy Report scenario would see CO2 emissions from the world's energy supply sector reduced by over 80 per cent by 2050 - providing a high level of confidence that the average global temperature rise will be limited to less than two degrees Celsius identified as threshold of unacceptable risks of catastrophic climate change.

INTERNATIONAL 24 HELP SAVE THE KITCHEN TABLE

WWF-India - NEWSLETTER JANUARY- APRIL 2011 IND