Past Programs

Annual Report for 2020 - 2021

April 2020 - May 2020:

With the year beginning with a catastrophic pandemic no activities could be conducted during this period since the lockdown was announced. However, Eco-Watch supported by PwCIF distributed ration kits to the poor and marginalised sections of the community.

More than 100 families of daily-wage workers and labourers affected due to the pandemic across Shivapura area in Bangalore were provided with ration kits. Volunteers & members of Eco-Watch were involved in the distribution of the kits.

June 2020:

June - 5 is celebrated worldwide as Environment Day and the theme for 2020 was ‘Time for Nature’. Hence as part of this Eco-Watch organised various events online along with talks & interactive sessions for students, youth and other community members.

The students of Shantiniketana School and their parents were addressed by Mr. Akshay Heblikar about the importance of protecting the environment and simple ways in which everyone can do their bit. The World Environment Day theme was also highlighted and discussed during the webinar.

The International Green Building Council organized a conference where Mr.Suresh Heblikar addressed the heads of various construction companies & developers and other related industry heads on sustainable development and green development modules for Bangalore and the country in general.

Mr. Akshay Heblikar was the chief Guest and keynote speaker for Christ academy’s National- level student symposium called Paraamarsh 2020 on “Building an Ecological Civilization (ECZ) for Sustainable Development: Prospects and Challenges”. The symposium was the first of its kind and has been an annual activity since then.

July 2020:

August 2020:

Eco-Watch in association with PwC-SDC (Kolkata) hosted series of webinars starting August 2020. In the first session on August 21st, Mr.Ullaash Kumar from Eco-Watch addressed the PwCSDC volunteers and spoke about how to grow medicinal / native plants at home. The benefits of these plants and methods of growing medicinal plants at home were also discussed. The second session on how to grow medicinal/native plants at home was conducted on 29th August. 22 PwC volunteers attended the webinar.

September 2020:

On 18th September, a webinar was conducted by Ms. Malini Parmar, guest speaker & founder of Stonesoup.in, a company that provides sustainable health, personal care, and green initiative solutions to people. She addressed the volunteers and spoke about composting methods at home.

As part of the CSR & relief support of PwC-SDC (Kolkata) 510 families belonging to very poor and vulnerable sections of the society who were affected due to the COvid pandemic across Srinivasapura colony, Rajgopal Nagar and Manjunatha Nagar were provided with ration kits. Again volunteers & members of Eco-Watch organised these activities across the areas.

Gardening at home was a subject that caught the interest of people during the lockdown. In order to assist interested employees & volunteers on the subject. Thus, a webinar on “Organic gardening at home” was hosted on 21st Oct. by Mr. Vasuki Iyengar, founder of Soil and Health Solutions, a social enterprise that offers holistic waste management solutions to various organisations, commercial establishments, households, schools, RWAs, Government, etc.

December 2020:

On the 21st December, Eco-Watch hosted a webinar for PwC volunteers on “A virtual session on Plants safety and Management”. The speaker for the day was Dr. Mythri Ramachandra, a pioneer in environmental biotechnology and the author of many books. She focused on the indoor plants, their uses, benefits and types that can be grown easily at home. Several volunteers logged into the talk and interacted with her as well.

The webinar was also aimed at creating interest among the younger generation & sensitizing them about the need to spend quality time at home during situations like the Covid pandemic.

January 2021:

A virtual Session on "Zero wastage at home" was hosted by Eco-Watch in association with PwC on the 25th of January, where Dr. Mythri Ramachandra addressed hundreds of volunteers on effective waste management at home.

February 2021:

On the 23rd of February, in a virtual session with many volunteers, the topic of “heavy metal contamination in the environment” was addressed by Dr. Mythri Ramachandra. She spoke about the ways in which we are adding to metal contamination and how it can be reduced by taking small steps in everyday lives.

March 2021:

22nd March is observed as World Water Day across the globe. On this occasion, Eco-Watch speaker Dr. Mythri Ramachandra addressed more than 200 volunteers where she spoke about the importance of water conservation and the simple ways by which we can undertake saving water resources at home.

Long term projects: Apart from the regular activities such as campaigns, awareness, sensitization events, webinars, seminars, etc., Eco-Watch also implements various long term projects to improve the environmental quality. Few of them are described below:

Restoration of Singahalli Lake: The Singahalli lake restoration project (phase-02) was supported by ICRA India Ltd. Various activities were undertaken under this phase focusing on strengthening rainwater harvesting channels and groundwater recharge; increasing the green cover around the lake & catchment area; undertake biodiversity studies & surveys; awareness and training workshops & sessions; and promote organic farming among the surrounding farming community. The lake is also a water resource for agriculture in the nearby villages and hence becomes an important project for the peri-urban region of Bangalore.

Activities undertaken under the Singahalli lake restoration project during the year 2020-2021

Desilting of the major rainwater inlet channels and subsidiary channels were undertaken to clear the channels with any unwanted litter, debris, etc, that would block the free flow of rainwater & to maximise storage and water holding capacity. This helped increase the rainwater inflow into the water-body and thereby enhance the accumulation & collection of freshwater in the lake.

Restoration of Huvinayakanahalli Lake: This lake restoration project supported by PwC-SDC & implemented by Eco-Watch between 2019-2020. The project aimed at reviving & restoring the Huvinayakanahalli lake and its surrounding ecosystem. After preliminary studies & survey cleaning, de-weeding and clearing of debris surroundings the lake was carried out. The project is for a period of one year and various restoration activities such as strengthening of rainwater channels, catchment area development, wetlands species re-planting and others will be implemented in the course of the project work.

Students, youth & local community were involved in carrying out the activity at various stages of the project. The community also participated in awareness & sensitization programmes & sessions through the project duration. Activities such as tree planting, bio-surveys, socio-economic interactions, etc. were also carried out by the local community.

De-silting, widening and dredging of major rainwater inlet channels were carried out to increase the rainwater inflow into the lake and thereby enhance the accumulation & collection of freshwater within the lake’s water-body.

Rainwater retention ponds and percolation-pits were created at the mouth of the freshwater feeder drains to filter unwanted silt & increase water-holding capacity of the lake and thereby enhance groundwater resource. IN addition to these, the lake bio-regions were re-establishied with selected plant species to retain excess / surplus rainwater and strengthen the ecological functions of the lake. Pockets of Bio-Park with indigenous & native plant species were set up around the lake to strengthen the biodiversity & the overall lake ecosystem.

Annual Report for 2019 - 2020

April 2019:

Restoration of Mahadeva Kodigehalli Halli project (phase - 02):

As part of the phase-02 of the lake restoration project carried out by Eco-Watch supported by Shell India Markets Pvt. Ltd., rainwater harvesting channels in the catchment area of the lake were strengthened; percolation pits were made at the end of each channel to ensure silt trap and proper flow of fresh-water into the lake.

May 2019

Urban Forestry - 28th May ’19: Volunteersof SAP Labs carried out a tree plantation drive in the campus of Government Polytechnic College, Channasandra, Whitefield, where 500 tree saplings have been planted and are being maintained. The objective of the event was to enhance green cover and improve percolation of rainwater.

June 2019:

Tree Planting - 3rd June ’19: Another tree planting activity was taken up by Eco- watch in association with PwC-India in the campus belonging to KSRP 3rd Battalion, in Madiwala – Koramangala region.

The loss of trees / green cover has caused adverse impacts on the environment and hence this activity was a small step towards the betterment of environment by planting more than 450 tree saplings within the campus so as to improve the environmental quality of the city.

7th June ’19: Volunteers of OLA Foundation and Eco-Watch along with the police personnel planted native tree species at KSRP 3rd Battalion, to enrich the biodiversity of the campus and also help.

July 2019:

Air Pollution & Traffic Management Campaign - 12th July ’19: Traffic in Bangalore has been ever increasing due to rise in population and rampant growth & development of the city causing severe air pollution and deteriorating the city’s air quality. Thus, in order to create awareness about the issue and also equip the local community in reducing this problem Intel volunteers took up a campaign on the outer ring road between Sarjapur junction and Bellandur. Awareness material such as posters, placards, info-charts, flyers, etc., were displayed and distributed to commuters.

Awareness Session - 19th July ’19: As part of the awareness and education programme of Eco-Watch, Mr. Ullash Kumar the Research Associate held an awareness session for the students of CMS, Jain Group of Institution at their campus on Lal Bagh Road, with the objective of sensitizing the student community and creating awareness about key environmental issues across the Western Ghats region.

Clean-up Drive -26th July ’19: Eco-Watch carried out a clean-up drive for volunteers of PwC India in and around KSR-Majestic Railway Station in order to sensitize the public about the need to maintain public & personal hygiene and also encourage their colleagues at office and their families back home. Though the drive was a symbolic activity the need to engage participants at various levels was highlighted. The event also aimed at leading by example and positively influencing people to stop littering public places.

August 2019:

Urban Forestry - 2ndAugust ’19: To address the loss of urban green cover Eco Watch in collaboration with SAP Labs initiated a number of tree plantation drives across the city. One such initiative was also carried out in the Government Polytechnic College, Channasandra, near Whitefield where 300 saplings were planted. This was in addition to the earlier 500 tree saplings that was planted by the organisation in the same campus.

Awareness Session - 28th August ’19: An awareness session was carried out by Mr. Akshay Heblikar, where he stressed on the balance between ecology and economics. The talk was organized by the Economics Department of Mount Carmel College, Bangalore as part of the World Economics Day. The objective of the event was to sensitize the youth towards various environmental issues. The need to understand the .link between ecology & economy; and thereby enable them to address these concerns through appropriate education, preparedness.

Lake Restoration: An integrated lake restoration activity was carried out around the Agara lake where native tree species were planted by local residents & community members who are also responsible in maintaining them as part of the PwC Urban Forestry programme.

September 2019:

Eco-Awareness Sessions -2nd Sep ’19: Multiple awareness sessions were conducted at the CMS, Jain Group of Institution, by Eco-Watch members on the importance & role of students in protecting the ecosystems across geographical regions. These sessions were conducted with a view to positively influence young minds who can be responsible citizens in future.

Lake Management Committee (LMC) – Meeting - 5th Sep ’19: As part of the Restoration of Mahadeva Kodigehalli Halli projectan LMC meeting was held on the 5th of September where the committee members took part along with Shell and Eco-Watch representatives. Many suggestions with respect to the water conservation & lake restoration were discussed in the meeting and carried out subsequently.

Awareness and Tree Planting - 6thSep ’19: Eco-Watch along with PwC volunteers conducted awareness sessions for students of Kadugodi Govt High School to create awareness about the importance of the environment and its protection. A plantation drive was also taken up in the campus along with the students to inculcate a culture and sense of cleanliness & sustainability.

Microforestry – 23rdSep ’19: Akamai Foundation in association with Eco-Watch implemented the Microforestry programme by planting indigenous / native tree saplings at KSRP 3rd Battalion in Koramangala – Madiwala region, Bangalore. The project aims at increasing the green cover in this area which is one of the highly polluted areas across the city. The KSRP personnel and Eco-Watch members were involved in the activity and its maintenance.

October 2019:

Clean-up Drive - 2nd Oct ’19: On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, an initiative was taken up by the South Western Railways with Eco-Watch along by engaging students from Christ (deemed to be university), Jain University and other volunteers. The objective was to clean up the railway station and make people aware about the need to protect the environment for a better future. Resource & awareness such as posters and banners were used to put across the message to the general community.

Tree planting event - 15th Oct ‘19: As part of this plantation drive, a total of 500 tree saplings belonging to native & indigenous varieties were planted within the Safal market premises,Whitefield-Hoskote road on the 15th of October, 2019. Enthusiast SAP employees participated in the planting activity along with members of Eco-Watch.

Lake Restoration Project - 18th Oct ’19: As part of the MK Halli lake restoration project, phase-2, indigenous tree saplings were planted by Shell employees near the lake area and around the water-body as well, to strengthen the catchment area and to biofence the lake periphery / boundary and avoid future encroachment.

Student Recreational & Interactive Activity - 26th Oct ’19: On the occasion of Deepavali, PwC volunteers carried out few recreational activities for the government school students of Ramamurthy Nagar including painting, coloring / rangoli marking, etc. Students from primary and middle school were engaged in the activities and were also sensitized about avoiding bursting of crackers to reduce air pollution in the city.

November 2019

Afforestation - 6th Nov ’19: An afforestation project was carried out by Syncron in association with Eco-Watch. The volunteers participated in a planting activity at the Kadugodi Govt. High School campus to enrich the green cover and gradually turn the campus in to an environment friendly campus for the students. Various environmental concepts to benefit the school, such as usage of organic manure, rainwater harvesting, etc., were also discussed in the following awareness sessions after the planting activity.

Clean-up drive,22nd Nov ‘19 - Cubbon Park & Lal Bagh have been one of Bangalore’s most visited parks and the possibilities of littering is maximum in these areas. Hence PwC volunteers along with Eco-Watch members took up the cleaning of various parts of the park, in order to keep the campus clean and set an example for people to follow the same, and reduce littering. Some volunteers also interacted with the visitors and the general public to understand their levels of awareness about waste segregation & its methods.

Technology & Environment - 8th Nov ’19: Students of Government High School, Channapatna, participated in an awareness programme conducted by Intel and Eco-Watch volunteers on the importance & intricate link between science - technology and environment in today’s world.

Clean up drive and planting event, 19th Nov ‘19 - Volunteers from SAP Labs participated in a clean up drive around Harlur lake with a view to keeping the lake premises clean. They also planted medicinal, herbal and ornamental saplings around the lake area so as to preserve greenery and native plant species.

Clean up drive, 22nd Nov ‘19- Cubbon park has been one of Bangalore’s most dense parks. PwC along with Eco-Watch volunteers took to cleaning of a part of the park in order to keep the campus clean and set an example for people to follow the same, and reduce littering.

Clean-up drive and tree planting 29th Nov ’19: Another clean up drive and tree planting activity was carried out by PwC volunteers in association with Eco-Watch in & around Madiwala lake. More than 20 huge bags of trash were segregated and collected and disposed off appropriately. This was followed by a planting activity in the Butterfly Garden in the Madiwala lake park area. Native butterfly host species were planted in a planned sequence & pattern as guided by the Forest Dept.

Restoration of Huvinayakanahalli Lake: Another lake restoration project supported by PwC & implemented by Eco-Watch was initiated. The project aims at reviving & restoring the Huvinayakanahalli lake and its ecosystem. After preliminary studies & survey cleaning, de-weeding and clearing of debris surroundings the lake was carried out. The project is for a period of one year and various restoration activities such as strengthening of rainwater channels, catchment area development, wetlands species re-planting and others will be implemented in the course of the project work.

Restoration of Singahalli Lake: One more lake restoration project was undertaken that is being supported by ICRA India. The project focuses on strengthening rainwater harvesting channels and groundwater recharge along with increasing the green cover around the lake. The lake is also a water resource for agriculture in the nearby villages and hence becomes an important project for the peri-urban region of Bangalore.

December 2019

Organic farming - Training & Awareness Workshop - 7th Dec ’19: As part of the MK Halli lake restoration project, farmers of M.K Halli, Huvinayakanahalli, Gopalpura, Yediyur, Marenhalli (B.K Halli panchayat), participated in a training and awareness workshop where they were exposed to the importance of organic farming and its benefits in the long run. They were also encouraged to implement organic farming techniques on small patches of land to compare the difference between conventional and organic farming. Training material and literature were also distributed to participants. The workshop included various sessions including talks, interactive sessions, audio-visual presentations and the like.

Clean-up Drive - 11th Dec ’19: As part of the lake restoration project, the surroundings of Huvinayakanahalli lake and a Government primary school were cleaned up by PwC volunteers. The aim of involving school children in the clean up drive was to set an example for the students to do continue these important learning throughout their lives and make it a lifestyle in future.

Christmas Celebration Event - 20th Dec ’19: PwC employees undertook a recreational event and engaged the Ramamurthy Nagar school children on the occasion of Christmas. Activities such as carol singing, craft, painting, etc., were carried out in addition to teachings and interactions regarding environmental conservation.

Air Pollution Awareness Session - 20th Dec ’19: An eco-awareness session on reducing air pollution across the city was carried out by Eco-Watch associates. Interesting and insightful facts about air pollution and its impact on health & environment were presented to the participants. A campaign on creating awareness and sensitizing the general community was also planned with the participants.

January 2020

Clean-up Drive - 13th Jan ’20: Eco-Watch in association with the South Western Railways and PwC volunteers held a clean-up drive in & around the K.R. Puram railway station. Questionnaires were distributed among the public at the platforms with a view to understand the level of sensitivity about waste segregation and its disposal

Clean-up drive - 31st January, ’20: Lalbagh is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangalore and therefore it is important to keep the place clean and hygienic all the time. Hence to promote this, PwC volunteers participated in a clean-up drive not just to tidy up lalbagh premises, but also to set an example to avoid littering among the general community. Surveys and interactions with the visitors were also part of the campaign to create awareness and sensitize the public.

February 2020

Sports Meet - 8th February ’20: PwC in association with Eco-Watch conducted a Sports Meet for students of Kadugodi Govt. High School, engaging them in various interesting games. The event upheld the proverb- “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” PwC volunteers conducted and organised the entire event in association with the school faculty & Eco-Watch members. Prizes were also distributed and the objective of keeping oneself fit and healthy through sports and games was also highlighted to the students.

Singahalli Lake Restoration - 19th Feb ’20: As part of the Singahalli lake restoration project, volunteers from ICRA India took up a tree planting event around the lake to inaugurate the project activities. The importance of protecting the environment especially the lakes and water-bodies in Bangalore was also highlighted by Eco-Watch members. Senior Executives of ICRA and Eco-Watch together inspected the activities implemented around the water body.

Clean-up drive -28th Feb ’20 : PwC in association with Eco-Watch conducted another clean-up drive at the majestic railway station to create awareness about the need to maintain personal and public hygiene especially among travellers across railway stations. Awareness material and literature were distributed to the general public to sensitize them during the drive.

March 2020

Completion of the Green School project, Kadugodi Government High school and Junior college: The Green School project supported by PwC is a comprehensive project towards sensitizing students and youth on environmental management and natural resource conservation by empowering communities to address environmental issues. As part of the project, rainwater harvesting system and solid waste management unit was built in the school. Awareness sessions were also conducted on various topics such as water and waste management, importance of saving green cover etc. Tree saplings were planted within the school premises. The project commenced in October and was completed in March.

Restoration of Huvinayakanahalli lake: As part of the project that began in Oct. 2019, rainwater harvesting channels were strengthened and percolation ponds were created through deepening of inlet channels. Areas for wetlands redevelopment and introducing native species have been identified for further activities. Awareness and sensitization workshops are being planned in the coming few weeks.

Annual Report for 2018 - 2019

April 2018

An initiative was taken by Eco Watch and SAP Labs to make our surroundings look more beautiful. The walls in Cubbon Park, Bal bhavan were cleaned and painted to make it look more attractive to the viewers. This initiative will compel people to think twice before littering in and around the place. This was a step towards a waste free environment.

May 2018

Volunteers took up a clean-up drive in KR Puram Railway station. The walls were painted beautifully. This was done not only attracted the viewers but also spread awareness about the need to protect the environment. Though many initiatives have been taken by the government to keep the public places like railway stations, clean, majority of people are ignorant about the same. This initiative would enable people to think before littering the place.

June - July 2018

1. A guest lecture by a Canadian speaker was organized in Vijayanagar government school initiated by Eco watch. The main objective was to spread awareness about the prevailing environmental issues to the young generation. A plantation drive was carried out after the completion of the session. This was a step towards a better environment.

2. Rag pickers are informal workers who collect recyclable material to earn a small wage. Their life and working conditions are extremely difficult. Redness of eyes, headache, back pain, accidental injury is very common among Rag-pickers. Prevalence of Tuberculosis were also found to a great extent.
   The Rag pickers around the Whitefield and Kundanahalli areas were addressed regarding the importance of hygiene and various health issues associated with it. Eco watch in collaboration with Sap initiated the work with great enthusiasm. This not only brought a great positive response from them but also educated them about a better lifestyle.

3. Man has exploited nature excessively at the cost of the environment. There is an immediate need to make people aware about environmental degradation. An awareness program on various aspects of environment was arranged by Eco watch in collaboration with Central Railway Department. The participants included volunteers of Scouts and Guides with around 7 different schools and colleges. The main motto was to sensitize the public about the prevailing environmental threat.

4. As a part of Green school project, the volunteers of PWC initiated the painting of government schools. The main objective was to provide the students with a clean and positive environment. This initiative helped create a vibrant learning atmosphere and a step towards hygiene and cleanliness.
   In order to promote health and hygiene, an awareness campaign was held by PWC volunteers in Ramamurthy Nagar Government school. The main objective was to sensitize the students about the prevailing health hazards associated with bad Hygiene and educate them about the precautionary steps that can be taken.
   “Education plays a vital role in shaping one’s future”, a topic was raised in the discussion regarding the importance of education.

5. As a part of Green School Project (GSP), a workshop was conducted in Ramamurthy Nagar Government School on Solar energy. Usage of Fossil fuels release harmful gases that effect the quality of environment. Solar power reduces reliance on fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas. The initiative was to spread a word about the relevance of solar energy, its mechanism and its benefits towards the environment.

6. A survey was conducted in Majestic Railway Station with the objective to know the views of the public regarding the cleanliness of their surroundings and the station. It also aimed at knowing the opinion of the users about the changes that can be adopted to pave a step towards a cleaner environment. This was the collective effort of Eco Watch and the Railway department.

August 2018

A Planting activity was taken up by Eco watch in association with Sap labs in Ramagondanahalli Government School. The loss of trees and vegetation has caused an adverse effect on environment. “Big changes start with small steps”. This activity was a small step towards the betterment of environment and to give secure surroundings to the future generation.

September 2018

Healthy lakes not only provide us with a number of environmental benefits but also influence the quality of life and strengthens the economy. With an intention to provide a view regarding the importance of lake and their development, a workshop was conducted by the volunteers to the students of Ramamurthy Nagar School.

October 2018

1. An initiative was taken up by the Railway department and Eco watch along with the volunteers from Jain university. The objective was to clean up the railway station and make people aware about the need to protect the environment

2. A clean up drive was taken up by Eco watch along with the volunteers from Christ (deemed to be university) in Cubbon Park, Bal Bhavan. The main objective of this drive was to sensitize people about the adverse effects of polluting environment with improper waste management.


3. Eco Watch along with Sap conducted a plantation drive in Immadi Halli Government High School. The main objective was to provide the students with clean and Eco-freindly environment. This will not only create a vibrant learning atmosphere but also a step towards a green future

November 2018

Eco Watch in collaboration with PwC, initiated a plantation drive in Vishveshvaraya School and College, HAL old airport road. The loss of trees and vegetation has caused an adverse effect on environment. In order to provide a safe and secure future to the upcoming generation, this was a small step taken by the volunteers.

December 2018

Another plantation drive taken up by Eco Watch in Vishveshvaraya school. Water is a vital element for growth of plants in a healthy way. The volunteers recognized the need of same and acted in the best possible way.

More initiatives by Eco-Watch in association with PwC between October and December 2018

1. As a part of the Green School Project (GSP), a practical workshop was conducted by Eco-Watch on the importance of Solar energy and its mechanisms of solar panels. It was conducted in Ramamurthy Nagar government school to enlighten students about the most eco-friendly and renewable source of energy.


2. Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable process that helps in preserving rain water and utilizing it for different purposes and for future needs as well. To enlighten the students of Ramamurthy Nagar Government school, a session was conducted on the mechanisms of rain water harvesting by the volunteers of Eco-Watch.


3. If the waste is not separated properly, it all gets mixed up in landfills, thus contaminating the ground water and releasing harmful gases. To encourage the process of waste segregation, the students of Ramamurthy Nagar Government school painted the waste management unit with the support of Eco Watch and PwC.

January 2019

1. The loss of trees and vegetation has caused an adverse effect on environment. By looking into the above concern, Eco Watch in collaboration with PwC initiated a plantation drive in Vishveshvaraya School and College, HAL old airport road.

February 2019

To promote eco friendly products, an exhibition was conducted in Jayanagar 3rd block with the support of Eco-Watch. In this era of chemicalised products, we need to encourage the people to use eco friendly and organic products.

March 2019

Eco Watch was a part of an exhibition conducted by Mount Carmel College. Using ecofriendly products improves quality of life and ensures the safety of planet and people residing in it. The move was to encourage people to use eco-friendly products in their daily life.

January to March 2019

M. K. Halli Lake Restoration Project in association with SHELL Technology Center, Bangalore De-silting, widening and dredging of major rainwater inlet channels and digging of percolation pits.

Objectives of the Activity:

1. Harvest maximum amount of rainwater from catchment area;
2. Increase rainwater inflow into the water-body;
3. Enhance accumulation & storage of freshwater in the water-body.

Annual Report for 2017 - 2018

March-April 2017

“Save water campaign”

This campaign was conducted by Eco-Watch in association with BWSSB at various public places such as bus stops, train stations, malls and colleges. The importance and methods of water conservation was conveyed through street plays and workshops.

May 2017

Around 50 Mc afee, student and Eco-Watch volunteers did a clean up drive in and around cubbon park to highlight the importace of waste segregation and the methods to do it.

June 2017

On the occasion of World Environment Day, AB Inbev and Eco-Watch conducted a workshop about the saving green cover and planted trees in the city. A film was screened which spoke about related topics.

July 2017

3 sessions were held to promote medicinal and herbal plants at the GSK Kolar office. GSK volunteers along with Eco-Watch also helped to distribute these plants at other factories and offices. This capmaign was mainly held to promote clean air at work places.

August 2017

Monitoring and maintaining of the Rainwater harvesting system at B.K Halli primary and high school was done in August of 2017. Surveys were conducted to evaluate the knowledge school children have about Rainwater harvesting. Positive results were seen.

September 2017

1. SAP Labs and Eco-Watch took to cleaning and painting 4 railaway platforms at K.R Puram.About 150 SAP Labs volunteers held interactive awareness drives for the staff at K.R Puram railway about cleanliness. As a public place, it is important to have clean platforms and lobbies and the staff was educated about the same.

September 2017

2. South Western Railway- Clean up drive. A clean up drive was held at KSR Railway station where 100 student volunteers and general public took to cleaning the station. This delivered a strong message to the spectators about keeping public places clean and not littering.

October 2017

1. On October 2nd 2017, informative sessions were held at various public places such as railway station, bus stops, auto stands, taxi stands, and railway quarters. Various speakers spoke about cleanliness, hygiene, and the importance of waste segregation. Surveys were conducted among-st travelers, passengers, vendors , taxi and auto drivers, to evaluate their level of understanding about how to maintain a clean environment. About 400 volunteers took part in this activity.

October 2017

2. SAP Labs and Eco-Watch organized a cleanliness drive in and around the Whitefield area where the volunteers also conducted an awareness session where they spoke about waste segregation with a view to sensitize the public.

October 2017

3. About 50 SAP Labs and Eco-Watch volunteers took to painting the Whitefield railway station area. Trees and sapling were also planted to promote green cover.

November and December 2017

A butterfly park and a bio diversity park was set up at Hennur lake by KWE Logistics in association with Eco-Watch. 25 different butterfly host species was introduced in the park. A small water body was also created through Rainwater harvesting. About 250 volunteers help to set this up.

January 2018

An awareness campaign on clean and green Bangalore along with South Western railways was held on January 31st. These campaigns were conducted at different educational institutions with a view to positively influence young minds.

February 2018

200 volunteers from schools, colleges and corporate came together to clean the platforms of the KSR railway station to promote cleanliness at public places.

March 2018

500 student volunteers in association with Eco- Watch and South Western railways conducted public awareness workshops and surveys at Majestic to promote a clean Bangalore. A walkathon was also carried out to catch the public eye.

1. Sensitize students, teachers & the local community on safeguarding the environment and natural resources.
2. Educate students & youth on key environmental issues affecting humans and environment.
3. Build capacity and equip the community to address environmental issues through implementing appropriate conservation measures & methods.
4. Provide skills, techniques and hands-on experience like rainwater harvesting, alternate energy, waste management, biodiversity conservation, etc. for the community to deal with critical environmental problems.
5. Produce and distribute awareness and information material on environmental conservation, ecosystem and associated subjects and themes.
6. Create model Green Schools in every Ward in Bangalore.

Annual Report for 2016 - 2017

Restoration of Mahadeva Kodigehalli Halli (M.K. Halli) Lake:

Bangalore has been facing acute water shortage and it is all the more important today to protect and restore the remaining & existing resources. In this background Eco-Watch undertook the restoration of M.K Halli lake in North Bangalore that has been supported by Shell India Markets Ltd. Studies on rainfall pattern, biodiversity survey, agroclimatic studies along with socio-economic studies have been carried out. Rainwater feeder channels, bunds, check-dams, etc., were built and set up to harvest rainwater from the surrounding catchment area and feed the lake. Field workshops and interactions in association with local community members were also carried out earlier.

Eco-Awareness & Clean-Up Drive:

One of the most critical issues today in Bangalore has been the rampant increase in garbage and its disposal and proper management by authorities. Therefore, to create awareness among the general community and to sensitize them about the ways and means of disposing various types of waste Eco-Watch organised ecoawareness campaigns and clean-up drives in and around Cubbon Park. Many corporates felt the need to support such initiatives and thus joined in the programmes.

Indoor Air Pollution Reduction Campaign:

Another interesting aspect of reducing pollution levels is to minimize indoor air pollution levels at offices / industries / corporate spaces. An awareness campaign by means of providing indoor air pollution reduction plants and medicinal plants was carried out in Bangalore & Kolar districts. Various corporate houses such as GSK and others were involved in this campaign to promote work-related indoor air pollution reduction.

Urban Forestry & Eco-Awareness Workshop:

One of the key objectives has always been to increase the green cover for Bangalore. As part of this a treeplanting drive was carried out in and around Kadugodi & Whitefield area involving Capital-One volunteers. Nearly 250 saplings were planted as part of this drive and have been maintained so far. The objective was to increase the green cover around Kadugodi & Whitefield area as they are the fast developing pockets of Bangalore.

Eco-Development:

An integrated eco-development project was taken up on Mysore Road to enrich and strengthen the biological diversity of the region. Ecosystem development activities such as setting up of Eco-Parks, Bio-Parks and other theme based gardens were carried out across the designated region abutting the Kumbalgodu Range Forest.

Environmental Awareness & Education:

A comprehensive workshop on natural resource conservation and environmental management was carried out for the students of Sheshadripuram College in Bangalore. The purpose was to sensitize the youth towards the current environmental issues and enabling them to address these concerns through appropriate education and preparedness. An integrated eco-development project was taken up on Mysore Road to enrich and strengthen the biological diversity of the region. Ecosystem development activities such as setting up of Eco-Parks, Bio-Parks and other theme based gardens were carried out across the designated region abutting the Kumbalgodu Range Forest.

Dhanvantari Vana

One of the significant programmes of Eco-Watch is to establish various theme - based parks and woodlots across the city. As part of this initiative a “Dhanvantri Vana” (Medicinal Plants Garden) was set up in Jayanagar 3rd Block to popularize the need to protect and promote natural therapies and remedies amongst the general community. The design and layout was provided by Eco-Watch in association with the BBMP and local Corporator.

Waste Management & Cleanliness Drive:

Bangalore today is facing huge waste disposal & management issues over the last decade. Thus, to create awareness among the general public and to sensitize them about appropriate methods of disposing different types of waste, Eco-Watch regularly organised awareness and education campaigns and clean-up drives in and around the city in March 2017. The current campaign was initiated in Cubbon Park and the Bal Bhavan premises where large number of children along with their parents visit the area. Awareness and educational information were displayed across the premises and park for the benefit of visitors.

Save Water - Save Bengaluru:

Eco-Watch has been consistently working towards creating awareness and sensitizing the community about water conservation and water resources management over the last two decades. With Bangalore facing huge water scarcity especially in summer the Save Water - Save Bengaluru campaign was launched in association with Bangalore Water Supply & Sewerage Board (BWSSB). Short films & fillers were produced and screened during workshops, seminars, etc. Information posters, resource material, etc., were prepared and distributed across the city to spread the message of water conservation.

Save Water - Save Bengaluru:

Eco-Watch has been consistently working towards creating awareness and sensitizing the community about water conservation and water resources management over the last two decades. With Bangalore facing huge water scarcity especially in summer the Save Water - Save Bengaluru campaign was launched in association with Bangalore Water Supply & Sewerage Board (BWSSB). Short films & fillers were produced and screened during workshops, seminars, etc. Information posters, resource material, etc., were prepared and distributed across the city to spread the message of water conservation.

Annual Report for 2015 - 2016

Green School Project (GSP):

As part of the GSP Eco-Watch carried out the afforestation drive within the campus of the government school on Sarjapur Road and in the surrounding village spaces to enrich the rural vegetation dynamics in the peri-urban areas. Volunteers from LG participated along with the students from the government school.

Eco-Park:

Eco-Watch in association with the BBMP established an Ecological Park with indigenous tree varieties in Bangalore in Tavarekere. The activity was supported by ClearTrip.com and the volunteers were involved in establishing this park.

UNI Abex Afforestation

As part of its Eco- Restoration drive across Karnataka state, Eco- Watch undertook a series of eco-awareness drives to popularize the concepts of ecological restoration with corporates & industries across sectors. One such activity was carried out in North Karnataka region to encourage the communities to undertake ecological restoration activities in several minor ways.

Short Eco-Film

One of the major objectives of the organisation is to create awareness among all sections of society through innovative and creative ways. A short film in Kannada for the school children was produced by Eco-Watch and spread to various districts of Karnataka. This film is still being screened to students across the state by volunteers and other members who are keenly associated with the organisation.

Global Communication Award:

Eco-Watch partnered with the Global Communication Associattion (GCA) in 2015 to host a conference which emphasised on the importance of communication in today’s world. Eco- Watch was also awarded the Best Organisation under the NGO Category at the Conference.

Eco-Restoration

One of the core activities of Eco-Watch has been the ecological restoration of rapidly deteriorating urban habitats such as lung spaces, woodlots, water-bodies, wetalnds and the like. In this background a fast disappearing urban habitat, a degenerating lung pocket, was identified for immediate restoration. HGS – a Bangalore based corporate was keen to associate and support this activity in Bangalore. Thus an important urban habitat was ecologically restored and being maintained.

Indium Lake Forest Development Project

Eco-Watch has been closely working on setting up an ecologically integrated & sustainable township project on the outskirts of Bangalore. The focus is to restore existing ecosystems, establish ecohotspots, undertake biodiversity studies and implement eco-scaping across the entire township. Nearly 15 theme-based Eco-Parks are being designed and set up under this project.

Solid Waste Disposal & Management

Bangalore’s most critical issue today has been the rampant increase in garbage and its disposal and proper management by authorities. Therefore, to create awareness among the general community and to sensitize them about the ways and means of disposing various types of waste Eco-Watch organised eco-awareness campaigns and clean-up drives across the city. Many corporates felt the need to support such initiatives and thus joined in the programmes that were carried out in various locations.

Sanjeevini Vana

a Medicinal Plants Garden was established by the BBMP in Jayanagar 3rd Block, Bangalore to promote & protect the rare, endangered and threatened species of Medicinal Plants from the Western Ghats region of Karnataka. The plants were sources from Eco-Watch Nursery Uttara Kannada district in addition to those from the Forest Dept., and other nurseries across the district. The design and plan of setting up this garden were also was suggested and discussed by Eco-Watch in association with the BBMP.

Eco-Tours:

Eco-Tours are one of the most interesting outdoor exposure programmes for organizations working in the cities and who appreciate rural and rustic experiences. These programmes engage the urban communities in various interactive activities such as eco-adventure, cultural events, agro-based and ecologically sensitive talks and workshops. The objective is to sensitize the urban communities towards appreciating our tradition, history, culture and environment. The Eco-Tours were conducted in Dandeli (Western Ghats region) and surrounding areas and another such tour was carried out in & around the Nagarhole Reserve Forest.

Solid Waste Management:

Intel has consistently paved the way to various other organizations and corporate in terms of addressing waste segregation and disposal over the years. In addition the employees still undertake the awareness drives & campaigns on waste disposal & management across the city. Hundreds of volunteers have been engaged in such awareness drives in different locations of the city over the last few years.

Solid Waste Management:

Intel has consistently paved the way to various other organizations and corporate in terms of addressing waste segregation and disposal over the years. In addition the employees still undertake the awareness drives & campaigns on waste disposal & management across the city. Hundreds of volunteers have been engaged in such awareness drives in different locations of the city over the last few years.

Demystifying technology Sessions:

One of the most interesting programmes of Intel has been the sensitization and awareness workshops for rural government school students about technology and its significance in improving and betterment of human societies across the world. New technological applications and gadgets that are useful to humans in various ways have been exposed to these students and children. Several sessions in Dharwad, Uttara Kannada districts have been conducted over the last few years emphasizing the need for building a future ready community that will be able to understand the world in a better way.

Demystifying technology Sessions:

One of the most interesting programmes of Intel has been the sensitization and awareness workshops for rural government school students about technology and its significance in improving and betterment of human societies across the world. New technological applications and gadgets that are useful to humans in various ways have been exposed to these students and children. Several sessions in Dharwad, Uttara Kannada districts have been conducted over the last few years emphasizing the need for building a future ready community that will be able to understand the world in a better way.

Madiwala Lake Restoration:

Another significant programme with Intel has been the lake restoration through various integrated activities. One such project was the Madiwala Lake Restoration in Bangalore South. As part of this project massive clean-up drives were organized involving Intel volunteers & the surrounding communities; survey through questionnaires on SWM across households; biodiversity studies to understand lake ecosystem and its importance in sustaining the ecology & environment; tagging & labeling of local flora in & around the lake in association with resource persons and subject experts from Eco-Watch.

Eco-Awareness:

A unique environmental awareness programme was carried out by Intel volunteers in partnership with students from SKID (children with hearing disability). The activities involved clean up drives, paper reuse and recycling, presentations & theater based events. Intel volunteers were involved in conducting these awareness activities for these special children. It was surprising to lean how well these children are motivated towards addressing environmental issues. In addition to these activities the students and Intel volunteers also carried out a Silent March in & around the Old Airport Road.

Eco-Development of Lal Bagh:

Another important programmes of Intel was the improvisation of public utility systems & facilities in Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens, which is a Natural Heritage site of Bangalore. Apart from clean up drives & awareness campaigns across in Lal Bagh Intel volunteers were determined to spruce up the public utility facilities such as drinking water, signboards, dustbins, street lights, etc., in the Botanical Garden. Thus a green initiative was taken up to provide better facilities for the general community & visitors to this Natural Heritage site of Bangalore. Nearly 200 LED bulbs were fixed to street lamps, taps were fixed at common drinking water facility areas, dustbins were painted and repaired, signboards were painted for better visibility and other minor repair works were undertaken.

Annual Report for 2014 - 2015

Eco-Tours:

As part of its environmental awareness and conservation programmes Eco-Watch conducts Eco-Tours for various sections of society to expose them to the grassroots of ecology and its conservation. The Eco-Tours help the participants understand the value of our environment, culture, heritage & tradition and therefore convinces them to save them for posterity. The tours also comprise of adventures activities, nature trails and similar eco-games for the participants to relax. The focus is to empower local communities by engaging them in arranging transport, food, accommodation and as tourguides for the participants.

Care for Air:

Bangalore tops the list of highly polluted cities in the world. The Care for Air campaign of Eco-Watch promotes ecofriendly transport, car-pooling, public-transport, etc. As part of this campaign and to encourage the community members events to promote Cycling/Walking/Running, etc., were organized across the city especially around Outer Ring Roads & Peripheral Ring Roads to encourage corporates, organizations, residential layouts, etc., to practice and promote such healthy & eco-friendly practices.

One of the important initiatives of Eco-Watch has been the Eco-Awareness Campaigns and Clean-Up Drives in & around the city. Several volunteers from schools, colleges, corporate organizations, etc have been involved over the last few years to address the issues of solid waste management across the city. Few heritage sites such as Lal Bagh, Cubbon Park, K R Market, etc., have been selected for such activities and also to spread the message of waste segregation and to avoid the use of plastics. Many such events have been carried out by Eco-Watch along with various corporates, organizations, youth groups, etc., to carry the message far & wide. The activities also include a survey and study involving the visitors to such sites and to analyse the levels of awareness among the local community.

Lake Restoration

As part of the lake development, restoration and ecosystem conservation programme, Eco-Watch carried out series of events and projects on restoring the Madiwala Lake in South Bangalore. In addition to the restoration and cleaning up activities a comprehensive study and survey was carried out to understand the levels of awareness among the surrounding communities.

Demystifying technology Sessions (Intel SIC Programmes):

One of the most interesting programmes of Intel has been the sensitization and awareness workshops for rural government school students about technology and its significance in improving and enriching human societies across the world. New technological applications and gadgets that are useful to humans in various ways have been exposed to these students & children. Tech-sessions were carried out in Banvasi, Uttara Kannada district & in Tumkur, emphasizing the need for building a future ready community that will be able to understand the world in a better way. These sessions were carried out in Banvasi, Sirsi & Siddapura talukas of Uttara Kannada district Lake.

Lake 2014:

The 9th Biennial Lake Conference was carried out in Sirsi, Uttara Kannada district with a focus on “Conservation and Sustainable Management of Wetland Ecosystems in Western Ghats”. The theme was “Wetlands and Agriculture:ÊPlacing a focus on the need for the wetland and agricultural sectors to work together for the best shared outcomes” and this conference provides a unique opportunity to increase understanding of the role of wetlands in sustaining the food production and challenges faced by these fragile ecosystems.

Green School Project

Government schools across Baglur and surrounding villages were selected & identified where an overall understanding of environment & conservation was disseminated to students through workshop, awareness campaign and field based activities such as tree planting, waste segregation, short skits, theme-base poster/collage making, etc. Resource material such as films, posters, books, info-charts, etc., were also provided to the students. In addition, to educate students about energy & water conservation they were provided with LED/CFL bulbs, tubes, etc.

In the 2nd phase and to practice eco-friendly lifestyles, the schools were provided with a solar power unit with a UPS back-up system which will help students in their computer-labs and science based learning activities. A Rainwater Harvesting system was also set up at the school to sensitize the students and strengthen existing water resources in and around the school.

Activity Report for 2012 - 2013

(June 2012) Eco-Watch has also taken up cleanliness drives across the city and elsewhere in the state. One such initiative was the cleaning of some part of Cubbon Park where there is major public access. DBOI was the first to take up this initiative and many employees were involved in this activity.

(July 2012) Texas Instruments and Eco-Watch jointly undertook a tree-planting initiative near K.R.Puram where water scarcity is severe. Native species were planted to increase groundwater levels and also to enrich soil fertility.

Care For Air

(July – Sept 2012) This was the initiative of Eco-Watch to reduce air pollution levels in Bangalore and also to enhance the green cover of the city. The campaign included various awareness building activities such as film screening and eco-quiz, interactive workshops, pollution reduction drives and the like. Apart from this Eco-Watch also had an exhibition of eco-friendly and handmade traditional products from across the country. The objective was to expose the corporate community to traditional and heritage skills that need to be preserved and protected.

(Oct – Nov 2012) An Eco-Education Programme was carried out at the government school being run by the Art of Living on Kanakapura Road. The programme was to increase awareness levels of children and also to engage them in effectively addressing environmental issues and concerns. More than 500 saplings were also planted in the school premises by school children and Intel employees.

(Dec.2012) Water Conservation: As part of this, Eco-Watch executed a Rainwater Harvesting project at the Divya Shanti School in Lingarajpuram, Bangalore to address the acute water shortage being faced by the children in this school. Rooftop RWH was implemented along with recharge-well to recharge groundwater source. The collected rainwater can be filtered and used event for drinking purposes.

Medicinal plants were distributed to employees in all Intel offices in Bangalore and Mumbai as part of World Biodiversity Day. Nearly 4,000 medicinal plants were distributed across offices of Intel in Bangalore and Mumbai.

In addition to this a massive tree planting programme was also carried out by Intel employees in Bangalore.

(Dec. 2012) State Level Seminar on North Karnataka Development with a focus on small town development was organised in Dharwad to address issues of urban infrastructure, natural resource management, cultural and heritage conservation and the like.

(Dec. 2012) Eco-Watch in association with the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) carried out a Tree-A-Thon wherein delegates from USA and India together participated in the tree planting activity on Kanakapura road. The programme also included a presentation on Heritage Conservation by Mr. Suresh Moona, an authority on this subject.

Activity Report for 2011 - 2012

The Eco-Park project supported by DBOI continued to the current year with lot more corporate joining the project and getting involved in various capacities. The medicinal plants garden was re-arranged and re-designed to suit the needs of the community in KSRP in the subsequent year.

Another important project taken up by the organization was to implement the forestry programme at Navalgund village at the rehabilitation camp for the flood affected villagers in Dharwad district. Diverse species along with economically beneficial varieties of plants were planted at this site.

To observe Earth Day, Eco-Watch in association with Intel, organized an eco-awareness campaign to employees at different Intel offices. Films on environment and natural resource conservation were screened through the day. Medicinal plants were distributed to employees in all Intel offices in Bangalore and Mumbai. An awareness campaign on rainwater harvesting was also carried out at the Intel campuses. These activities were followed by similar initiatives at other corporate houses in and around Bangalore.

Another interesting organization that took part in the Urban Forestry programme was the “Income Tax Recreation Club”. Families of officers of the Income Tax Dept. got engaged in this programme and also to spread awareness among other groups about the need to for community based eco-restoration programmes. More than 500 tree saplings were planted at the AIR-SPT site near Doddaballapur.

METRO-cash & carry

The wholesale giant located in Yeshwanthpur & Kanakapura took up the green cause in a different manner. Customers were given discounts on few eco-friendly products, some customers were registered for a eco-drive based on their ability to comprehend the cause and the need to address such issues. Nearly 10,000 medicinal plants belonging to various species were distributed to customers in both the outlets. Pollution control drives were a part of it wherein vehicles of customers underwent free check-ups.

Urban Forestry Programme:

Under this programme corporate such as Novozymes (biotech company), SAP Labs, Texas Instruments and others participated in planting activities in different project sites. Another organization Tyco Electronics also got involved in similar eco-drives across the city.

As part of its awareness and education programme, Eco-Watch also addresses a number of student communities across the city and state. One such initiative was to address the students of Symbiosis Institute of Business Management in Bangalore.

Activity Report for 2010 - 2011

As part of the Corporate Social Responsibility Citizen Watches in association with Eco-Watch undertook a campaign to create awareness on the green cover in urban areas. Tree planting, awareness campaigns and community interactions were major components of the programme.

Citi-Bank participated in one of the urban forestry programmes to help create awareness on preserving the environment and culture. Tree planting, theater-based activities and cultural programmes were part of this campaign.

Deutsche Bank:

One of the leading banks – DBOI, got involved in activities such as lake restoration and awareness campaign on spreading awareness on water conservation across the city. Employees were trained to spread the message and thereby interact with the local communities living nearby lakes and water-bodies.

DBOI also supported another important project on setting up an Eco-Park at the KSRP-9th battalion near Hosur Road. The purpose of this project was to support the children belonging to KSRP and provide them with basic facilities such as an eco-park, medicinal plant garden, play area, etc. Another important component was to set up a centre stage within this eco-park so as to provide a platform for cultural activities within the KSRP housing colony. The officials of DBOI from North India and South East Asia also visited this Eco-Park during the implementation of the project.

Another interesting activity of DBOI employees was to take up planting across Madiwala lake, a major lake in Bangalore South, to help prevent encroachment and also to clean up the lake. Physical cleaning was part of this campaign in and around the lake.

To spread the message of natural and cultural heritage of Bangalore a Walkathon was organized in and around Cubbon ark to carry this message effectively. Nearly 400 employees of DBOI participated in this campaign.

Eco-Watch also represented itself in the Marathon conducted by ORRCA at Eco-Space. The objective was to spread the message of eco-conservation in urban areas.

One of the leading hospitality groups – the Lalit Ashok in association with Eco-Watch carried out a seminar on challenges in protecting and improving the urban environment. The target was to involve youth in environmental protection through CSR concepts of hospitality groups.

Earth Day – celebrations was carried out by Eco-Watch across the city in association with various corporates and business houses. Campaign on rainwater harvesting, water conservation, groundwater recharge, etc., was carried out. In addition the campaign also included other activities such as screening of films, eco-quiz, rallies, etc. The objective was to sensitize the community on cultural and natural heritage preservation.

As part of World Environment Day Eco-Watch carried out a series of campaigns across the city to sensitize and motivate youth and children towards protecting our environment. One important event was in Mantri Mall in Malleshwaram where children were involved in creative and innovative ways to carry the message of protecting our environment. Students from colleges and other institutes were part of this programme for a period of one week.

Eco-Watch has been involved in protecting rare and threatened varieties of plants across the state. This is one of the most important programmes of the organization towards conserving biodiversity especially in urban areas. As part of this a drive to protect valuable and indigenous medicinal plants was carried in Bangalore. Various corporate like Intel participated in this campaign. More than 3000 saplings were distributed across the city over a period of one week.

Urban Forestry Programme:

Eco-Watch has been pioneering the concept of Urban Forestry in Bangalore and other parts of the state over the last 15 years. In this view many organizations, corporate, government and other entities have regularly participated. Corporates such as MindTree, NetApp, Novozymes, WEIR Minerals and others have been a major part of this campaign since a long time. Nearly 8,000 saplings have been planted in the current year along with various organizations mentioned above.

To promote cycling Eco-Watch has been campaigning with various government agencies over the last few years. In this regard the organization carried out frequent campaigns to promote and popularize cycling. SAP Labs has been a part of this campaign and was involved in such a campaign wherein the employees of the company participated in the cycling event to one of the project sites of Eco-Watch and planted tree saplings as well.

Activity Report for 2009-2010

Earth Day 2009:

Bio-Park and Urban Forestry projects have been continuing along with support from various organizations and agencies. As part of the Earth Day celebration, Eco-Watch along with Intel took up Iblur lake cleaning and tree planting activity. The one-day event was attended by al section of society including govt. and private bodies.

World Environment Day:

To observe World Environment Day and as part of the Green Karnataka project, a massive tree planting drive was organized over a period of one week at various bio-parks and eco-parks. SAP Labs, Oracle, Citizen Watches and others came forward to support this programme.

Kasavanahalli Lake Revival Programme

Another important programme was the revival of Kasavanahalli Lake off Sarjapur Road. Intel came forward to support this initiative and took making of nests and hanging them to improve the bird population and diversity in & around this lake.

TROPICAL GENE BANK:

In the third year of this project, Eco-Watch has undertaken further enrichment of the project by planting 1,200 saplings in various blocks of the project site. More than 50 additional species have been planted in various blocks of the project site.

Immadihalli Eco-School Project:

The SAP Labs India Pvt Ltd., have supported the project of making a govt. school into eco-friendly and bring about changes among the students right from that age. Rainwater Harvesting, Solar lighting, Greening & Solid Waste Management are the key focus of this project. Eco-Watch is implementing this project and will be completed by June/July 2010.

Two-Day Seminar cum Workshop on Environment & Development:

The two day state level seminar cum workshop was organized at BVB College, Hubli. Various aspects such as environmental management, regional development, agriculture, horticulture, sustainable livelihoods, tourism, etc., we discussed. Papers were presented and panel discussions were held with experts to prepaqre an action plan to propose to the govt. Other activities such as tree planting by Mahindra & Mahindra, youth volunteers and other groups have also taken place.

Tropical Fruit Tree species Conservation:

Eco-Watch also is involved in the this project with the IIHR and UNDP for protecting and popularizing the select tropical fruit tree species in the Western Ghats region.

2009 - 2010

Activity Report for 2008-09

Eco-Friendly Products & Environmental Awareness:

Eco-Watch initiated the land preparation for further planting in Hoskote Bio-Park area. This was also complimented with awareness activities on field.

Another event focusing on the green products along with the awareness activities was also taken up at the Texas Instruments campus for the employees. The focus was to promote green & eco-friendly products among the corporate and popularize it.

Green Karnataka Project:

This project was launched in DOddaballapur AIRSPT area where nearly 500 acres have been taken up for afforestation. Eco-Watch has already planted more than 15,000 saplings in the premises and is continuing the project even now. The project has been supported by the Govt. of Karnataka, corporate, students, youth and the general community in the surrounding region.

Another sapling distribution drive was carried out in Whitefield area for the general public and especially the student community in association with Rural Development Centre. The focus was to enrich greening in this region and to improve the groundwater status as it has been declining at a very rapid pace.

OZONE Day:

Since Eco-Watch works with various corporate and industries, the Ozone Day was celebrated in Intel campus by means of exhibition, poster display, interactive workshops, training and film screening. The idea was to expose the corporate community towards effects of Ozone depletion and its impact on environment and humans alike.

As part of the Ozone Day programme, various other events were also organized for the corporate and the student community at various Bio-Parks, schools, colleges, etc. Quiz, skit/drama, collage making, etc., were also organized.

Community Based Tourism Promotion – (study & interaction)

As part of promoting biodiversity conservation and related conservation measures, Eco-Watch is also aiming at promoting tourism in rural areas by involving the local community. For this purpose, the members visited another place where such a project was running successfully in Himachal Pradesh (Almora). The team from there also visited Kumta / Sirsi where Eco-Watch plans to undertake similar programmes.

Other tree planting drives and awareness programmes were also carried out in association with DELL, Motorola, Deutsche Bank and others where cycling was promoted, alternate sources of energy were popularized and the like.

2008 - 2009

Activity Report for 2007 - 2008

Save Water Campaign (Jan - Apr ‘07):

Eco-Watch, in association with a large number of partner organization carried out a massive campaign in Bangalore and other regional centres on water conservation titled ‘Save Water’. The campaign reached more than 700 schools from in & around Bangalore and nearly 150 colleges. The campaign implementing partners were: Bharath Scouts& Guides, NSS, Rotary, Lions and other NGOs. The campaign was supported by the Government (KUIDFC, KUWS&DB, BMTC, KSPCB, BWSSB, BBMP, etc.) corporate (Epson, Brigade Group, TI, etc.) and the like.

The campaign was carried out over a period of nearly four months, where the resource and information material such as posters, info-charts, water-booklet, etc., were distributed to schools, colleges, institutions, offices, etc., to convey the message of water conservation, rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and the like.

A film was also made by the organization which was screened at various venues over the campaign duration. VCDs and DVDs of the film were also widely distributed for large scale viewing by various sections of the community.

Events were organized for students and children from various backgrounds that included painting, quiz, debates, group discussions, etc., at different locations around the city to reach out to a larger audience.

Earth Day (April 22nd 07) - (Part of Save Water Campaign):

The Save Water campaign concluded on April 22nd at Bal Bhavan and as a part of this programme an exhibition on water conservation and related issues was arranged at the venue. Various NGOs, schools, experts and other concerned groups and individuals attended the programme. The then Honourable Governor, Sri. T.N. Chaturvedi inaugurated the programme and delivered the presidential address and emphasized the need to create awareness among all sections of the society.

Prof. U.R. Rao, (former Chairman – ISRO) was the Guest of Honour, who focused on recent technological advancement and how today’s technology can be effectively utilized in resource conservation. He highlighted that developmental projects are required, bearing in mind the environmental consequences and their impacts.

Talks and presentations were also arranged for students and the general public as part of the event at Bal Bhavan.

Environment Day (June 5th 2007):

This year Eco-Watch conducted a series of activities and events as part of the World Environment Day

Global Warming & Climate Change (June – September ’07):

Exhibition of environment-friendly products (HP):

Products such as banana fiber mats, covers, curtains and home accessories and other products made by disabled communities were exhibited, displayed and sold at the HP premises on Hosur Road as part of the World Environment Day celebrations. Organisations such as Gramya, Association for the Mentally Challenged and Concerned for Working Children participated in the exhibition.

Awareness Workshop:

A day-long exhibition on environmental restoration activities and projects by Eco-Watch was organized at the HP campus. In addition relevant activities such as films on environment were screened followed by discussions, interactions, quiz, etc., in the ITPL premises for staff and members of HP and other companies in the campus. Many employees and members from other companies also participated in the events at the venue.

Tree Planting (SBI premises):

As part of the World Environment Day celebrations Eco-Watch in association with the State Bank of India carried out a tree planting in the SBI premises on St. Mark’s Road wherein the employees, staff and officers of the Bank participated in the field based activity. The idea was to involve as many people as possible in eco-restoration activities in urban centers and promote community participation among the urbanites.

Eco-Exhibition (Deutsche Bank premises):

A unique exhibition on sustainable practices by corporate establishment in environmental conservation was held at the Deutsche Bank premises in Electronics City. The exhibition emphasized the concept of adopting sustainable development models amongst urban dwellers and to reduce natural resource consumption through initiating eco-friendly approaches within corporate houses and their households. The message of sustainable development and optimum resource utilization was the hallmark of this exhibition.

Urban Forestry Programme (Rotary Bangalore Dist.):

Urban Forestry has been one of the key eco-restoration activities of the centre and this year Rotary Bangalore Dist. participated in the programme. Members from varied backgrounds and a cross section of the society were involved at the project site on Hoskote Road. More than 1000 saplings have been planted in this site.

Urban Forestry Programme – (Deutsche Bank):

Eco-Watch in partnership with Deutsche Bank also took up another urban forestry programme on Hoskote Road where more than 500 saplings belonging to native species were planted by employees and members of the Bank along with their family members. The activity was carried out not just to involve the members of the Bank, but also their families who participated in the day-long activity at the project site. Students from the nearby government schools were also involved in this programme to create awareness among them about protecting our environment and restoring our degraded ecosystems through active participation in field based programmes.

The students & employees involved in tree planting at the site. They were also engaged in literary activities such as painting, debates, discussions and the like. Films on air pollution, native tribes and eco-restoration were also screened for the participants followed by interactions and discussion with the children.

The integration of corporates, school students, local community, NGO, etc., was motivating and inspiring and brought in a sense of responsibility and belongingness.

Motorola Global Service Day (October 10th’07):

Motorola has been one of the partners of Eco-Watch over the last two years and have been actively involved in the greening programmes in and around Bangalore. Every year as a part of the Global Service Day.

Seminar on Technology, Development & Environment with a focus on Small Town Development, VTU campus, Belgaum (October 29th & 30th 2007):

Eco-Watch in association with Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belgaum and the Government of Karnataka conducted a state level seminar on Technology, Development & Environment with a focus on Small Town Development on October 29th & 30th. The seminar was attended by students, general community, NGOs, industrial sector, public-private enterprises, science and technology divisions, corporates, environmentalists, developers, all government agencies/departments.

The seminar was inaugurated by Sri. Sudhakar Rao, IAS, Addl. Chief Secretary & Devpt. Commissioner, Govt. of Karnataka. Smt. Amita Prasad, IAS, Regional Commissioner, Belgaum Division, & Sri. Shivalingamurthy, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Belgaum were the other dignitaries present at the seminar.

After the inaugural programme, resource personnel from Eco-Watch and Belgaum made presentations followed by discussions and interactions with the participants. The sessions on the second day concluded in the evening and the valedictory address was delivered by the Deputy Commissioner.

Eco-Watch prepared an Action Plan, based on the deliberations and a discussion held over the two days of the seminar and has presented it to the Government of Karnataka for implementation.

Ecotourism Centre at Gokarna (Project Based Learning) December’07:

Another regional activity taken up by Eco-Watch has been the promotion of rural and sustainable tourism in coastal Karnataka with a focus on Gokarna and adjoining regions such as Kumta, Ankola, etc. The focus here is to train and equip the community to enable them in sustaining their livelihoods by showcasing their skills in mainstream market that already exists. Hands-on experience is also provided through projects using successful models involving resource personnel and experts.

Tropical Gene Bank VTU, Belgaum, (January –March):

The VTU Gene Bank project moved into the second phase in Jan 2008. The Nursery was further developed with additional seedlings and planting material collected from various regions of the Western Ghats.

Activity Report for 2006 - 2007

Field study & survey on the Great Indian Bustard (April’06-June’06):

Eco-Watch carried out a survey and a study on the Great Indian Bustard as part of the film making project mainly to track the bird’s habitat including nesting and egg laying. The team comprised of members from Eco-Watch, Forest Dept., local NGOs, village community, ornithologists and others.

The study was carried out in specific regions such as Ranebennur, Bellary, Raichur and surrounding places. The study was helpful in identifying some pockets where the birds were nesting and had laid few eggs as well. The filming was possible since the villagers co-operated with the study team and were informers to a great extent.

World Environment Day (June 5th ‘06):

Every year Eco-Watch organizes awareness programmes and other field based programmes, especially for students and the general community as well. This year too the centre organized a major event for more than 2,000 students from more than 100 schools from and around Bangalore.

The programme focused on the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard. The film made on this bird by Eco-Watch was released on World Environment Day. Posters and other awareness material that was prepared towards the awareness and education campaign of this Bird was also launched and released on the same day.

Students were involved in painting and drawing competition in addition to the quiz and debate programmes that were held simultaneously at the venue.

Other adventure activities were also a part of the day long event where children were exposed to a number of other field based activities and nature studies. Bird watching and butterfly studies were also conducted for the participants.

Tropical Gene Bank Project (June-Sept’06 & ongoing):

The focal issue of this project is to conserve the fast disappearing indigenous flora belonging to the Western Ghats. The project was initiated in 2005 and since then the progress has been very inspiring. The Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) is the supporting partner and the project is being executed in the VTU campus.

The project area is spread over 30 acres around the VTU campus and there are 9 different blocks in which nearly 3000 saplings belonging to 165 species are planted. The blocks are divided as follows: Medicinal Plant Garden, Butterfly Park, Sacred Garden, Wildflower Garden, Nectar Garden, Natural Forest Block and the like. Each block has a set of species that corresponds to its nomenclature. Species that are classified as rare, threatened, endangered, etc., are given importance and such species are then identified and collected from the wild. However some are unavailable even in the wild and need more attention. Therefore the Tropical Gene Bank at VTU aims at conserving such important but fast disappearing species from the Western Ghats and protecting them for future propagation, research, botanical advancement and medicinal uses.

Motorola Global Service Day (Oct 10th ’06):

As a part of the urban afforestation and greening programme of Eco-Watch, every year, Motorola has contributed towards the promotion of such causes. This year too volunteers from Motorola visited the Eco-Watch project site where large-scale greening is being taken up. More than 200 saplings were planted by the volunteers. The volunteers were initially briefed about the current urban environmental situation and the need to undertake such activities on war-footing in Bangalore. Native species were planted and the importance of these species and their conservation were explained to the volunteers. The plants were watered and maintained over the next few months by Eco-Watch and volunteers of Motorola.

Eco-Restoration & Rejuvenation Programme (Nov-Dec’06):

Eco-Watch organized a series of eco-restoration and rejuvenation programmes including urban environmental improvement, water resources management, urban ecology and the like. High school students, children and youth were involved in the programmes carried out by the centre. The students had a practical hands-on experience in learning and understanding the urban environmental issues and its impact on human health and the environment we live in. Posters, charts and films were used to communicate various messages as part of the awareness creation.

Activity Report for 2005 - 2006

WORKSHOP ON TOURISM, CULTURE & ENVIRONMENT IN GOKARNA, UTTARA KANNADA DISTRICT (May 18th 2005):

One of the key components of Eco-Watch is to promote tourism to preserve the culture and biodiversity of Uttara Kannada coast. Since the organization has been working in this region for many years, this workshop was conceived as an initiation towards promoting tourism to showcase the ecological and cultural significance of this important region which lies in the Western Ghats, one of the mega Global Biodiversity Hotspots. Wide cross sections of people were invited to participate in the workshop and also voice their views on the issue. Presentations and photography exhibition on coastal biodiversity, cultural heritage, marine ecosystems, etc., were a part of the workshop.

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY, BANGALORE (June 5th 2005):

Every year Eco-Watch observes World Environment Day to create awareness about the key environmental issues concerning our existence on this planet. In this regard the centre organized a tree-planting programme at the Police Housing Corporation site where an Eco-Park is being established in the campus. Nearly 200 people participated in this programme and planted nearly 500 saplings to mark the event. Students, general public, police personnel and other important personalities took part in the event and planted the saplings. A field visit was carried out around the proposed Eco-Park and to the nearby lake that was under threat.

WESTERN GHATS BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION PROGRAMME, KARKALA, DAKSHINA KANNADA DISTRICT (Karkala, August 7th 2005):

Eco-Watch has been concentrating on the Western Ghats region for the last many years and has been addressing various issues. The Dakshina Kannada district that is famous for the wide range of species, especially the diversity in fruit crops, a workshop was organized with a focus on the student community of the region. This was to communicate the message of richness in diversity of the region and its significance at global level. All the presentations at the workshop were made by students who have been studying about the local ecology and the diverse range of ecosystems in the region that needs to be conserved. A few presentations were made by experts and research scientists from Bangalore and Karkala who have been associated with various national and international institutes and academic institutes. The college where the workshop was held is a centre for similar studies and has taken up the task of addressing all students on the importance of Western Ghats biodiversity and the need to protect it.

WORKSHOP ON CONSERVATION OF TROPICAL FRUIT TREE SPECIES (Sept. 5th 2005):

The Western Ghats are not only one of the richest global biodiversity hotspot, but a store house for several natural resources upon which the local communities are dependent on. The fruit trees in this tropical region is one such treasure that has been supporting the lives of several communities in the ghats. But off late these tropical fruit trees have lost importance due to concentration of urban services and migration of rural youth in search of a so-called better lifestyle.

CARE FOR AIR (Campaign addressing air pollution problems in Bangalore & other parts of the state) Nov ’05 to Jan ’06:

One of the key issues and concerns of Bangalore and other developing cities in Karnataka is the rising problem of Air Pollution. To address this critical issue Eco-Watch carried out a three month campaign conducting various programmes and activities in Bangalore and different parts of the state.

The activities included technical workshops, screening of film on air pollution, its ill effects on humans and environment, need to cut down pollution drastically, promotion of eco-friendly vehicles and other measures that need to be taken at individual levels. The programmes were conducted in Bangalore, Hubli, Dharwad, Belgaum, Mysore, etc.

Resource and publicity material such as charts, posters, air pollution manuals and booklets were produced by the centre and distributed to various schools, colleges, NGOs, institutes, government & private offices, industries, corporates, etc., to spread the message and bring about awareness.

HALKAR VILLAGE FOREST PROGRAMME, KUMTA (Nov-28th 2005):

Halkar is a tiny village bordering Kumta town in Uttara Kannada district. This village has protected the forest area in and around the village over the last 80 years. The village forest panchayath is the first of its kind in the sub-continent and has set an example for the world community regarding conservation of forest and efficient utilization of its resources, managed and monitored by the community itself. Eco-Watch is associated with this panchayath in maintaining the forest, like earlier, by the community and to provide other facilities for the community members to continue protecting the forest for future as well. IN this regard the Chairman of Eco-Watch was invited for a public meeting and to seek further assistance from the centre.

ECO-WATCH - INEP PROJECT (Completed) (2002-2006):

The Eco-Watch - INEP that was initiated in 2002 was completed in 2006. All project documentation and required formalities were completed according to the agreement. A final project completion report, video documentary film and other project material and documents were submitted. The project was carried out in Bangalore, Tumkur and Kolar and successfully completed. The detailed report and other docum

Activity Report for 2004 - 2005

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY, BANGALORE (June 5th 2004):

Eco-Watch has been actively involved in the environmental movement in the state of Karnataka over the last more than a decade. The centre has been instrumental in creating awareness about key environmental issues and concerns among students and the general public. To spread the message of environmental protection and conservation, Eco-Watch organizes programmes and activities for various sections of the society to build this sense of belongingness and make them responsible citizens. Hence the World Environment Day is observed every year wherein a series of programmes and activities are carried out at different venues to reach out to a larger number of people in and around the city. The centre organized various activities such as painting exhibition, debates, essay and painting competitions, eco-quiz, workshops, set up stalls by other NGOs, etc. Following are a few pictures of the different activities conducted at the Kantheerava stadium on June 5th 2004. Eco-Watch also associated with SOS Children’s Village and other organization in carrying out the events.

T Sri. S.G. Vasudev addressing after inaugurating the Photography Exhibition at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.

ECO-GANESHA CAMPAIGN, BANGALORE (Sept 2004):

To create awareness about the ill and harmful effects of immersing Ganesha idols in lakes and tanks of Bangalore, the centre organized a mass campaign in association with the Lake Development Authority in the city. Leaflets, posters, messages on banners, dramas and street plays and also a short film on the issue were made to spread awareness. The campaign was spread over a period of one month during September 2004.

SOUJANYA MAASA (CAMPAIGN TO ADDRESS AIR POLLUTION), BANGALORE & OTHER URBAN CENTRES (Nov-04 to Jan-05)

The centre carried out a major awareness campaign addressing air pollution problems and the need to reduce it drastically. The campaign was carried out in association with government departments, NGOs, colleges, schools, social clubs and others who supported this campaign. Series of workshops, campaigns, presentations, emission checks, promotion camps of eco-friendly vehicles and using mass/public transportation were the focus of this campaign As part of the campaign Eco-Watch also undertook a tree planting programme which projected the need to increase the green cover in Bangalore. The campaign was carried out in different parts of the state to address the issue in as many urban centres as possible, such as Hubli, Dharwad, Belgaum, Mysore, etc.

COASTAL BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION WORKSHOP IN KUMTA, UTTARA KANNADA DISTRICT (March 7th 2005):

Eco-Watch organized a workshop on the importance of coastal ecology and its conservation in Kumta, Uttara Kannada district on March 7th 2005 involving various communities of the coastal region. Resource personnel from various backgrounds were invited to deliver lectures and make presentations. Some of the key topics that were discussed were: Coastal ecology and biodiversity, conservation needs, government policies and regulations, Coastal Zone Regulation, role of NGOs and communities in coastal areas and the like. Discussions and interactions followed the presentation and an exhibition / display was also organized for the students and the general community of the region.

Activity Report for 2003 - 2004

Mr. Suresh Heblikar,Chairman, Eco-Watch presented a paper on ‘Biodiversity and Culture’ at the International Conference on ‘Biodiversity & Environment’ held at Calicut, conducted by OISCA-Kerala Chapter.

Indo-Norwegian Environment Programme:

Phase-2:

The project taken up by Eco-Watch in March 2002 continued into its 2nd year where the project activities in Kolar & Tumkur districts had begun. The project site required some land preparation initially. Once the site was ready the saplings were planted by involving the local communities and the students.

The saplings collected from different parts of these three districts, were maintained at the nursery established by the Centre. After tagging them appropriately the saplings were planted in a scientific manner so as to facilitate documentation and field identification.

Tumkur site was taken up after a while in association with the Tumkur Science Centre, which is the Nodal Agency for this project. The work continued till mid-August. The project is in the process of documentation.

On June 7th 2003, Eco-Watch observed the World Environment Day. The Centre conducted a massive Awareness Campaign & an Environment Education Programme for students, youth and the general public of Bangalore city. A number of activities were conducted at the venue (Bharath Scouts & Guides) which have been briefly mentioned below:

A study cum survey on the restoration of the Chennapatna Lake was conducted by Eco-Watch in Hassan for ISKCON, who wanted to undertake the project of restoring this lake.

The project included the establishment of a Temple Complex in one portion of the lake in addition to a Bio-Park around the Lake hosting medicinal plants, shrubs, etc.

Mr. Suresh Heblikar addresses the religious heads at Suttur Mutth, Mysore in the month of November on the topic ‘Environment & Religion’.

Oikos - Bangalore Chapter an organization working towards cleaner environment held a rally on “ Less Plastic for me’’ in Jayanagar on 17th January 2004.

This campaign, to reduce usage of plastic, was inaugurated by Suresh Heblikar. The Traders Association of Jayanagar supported this rally.

" Awareness Campaign to reduce Air Pollution in Bangalore "

A massive awareness campaign undertaken by the Transport Dept., Govt. of Karnataka was supported by Eco-Watch. The campaign was spread over a period of two months (Jan-Feb 2004). Various innovative and novel programmes were carried out during these two months. Brief outlay of the various programmes conducted by Eco-Watch are mentioned below:

Mobile Display Vans of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board was another feature of the programme. The information material was highly beneficial to the students and the public, which contained information on environment, pollution, conservation, ecosystem etc.

Plays on Air Pollution, its effect on humans and environment, control measures, pollution prevention, etc were enacted by students of Sudarshan Vidya Mandir & Vijaya High School.

Smt. Rani Satish, Minister for Kannada & Culture, Govt. of Karnataka, also participated in the programme conducted under this Campaign.

Suresh Heblikar, Chairman, Eco-Watch addressing the gathering, along with the Commission.

Earth Day (March 12th 2004)

Eco-Watch Chairman Mr.Suresh Heblikar, inaugurated the Earth Day celebration at Delhi Public School on March 12th 2004

Later he was also briefed about the Butterfly Garden that was being established by the School. Eco-Watch intends to support the School in this project of setting up the Butterfly Garden at the School; premises.

Apart from the above-mentioned programmes and events Mr.Suresh Heblikar has addressed a number of other programmes in & around Bangalore & other parts of the State.

Eco-Watch also supported a publication in Kannada titled “Neevu yaarige matha kodthiri?”. This book aims at empowering the common man in selecting a right candidate and also equips him/her with key tools in excercising the fundamental right.

Sadhanakeri Lake Restoration Project:

The Sadhanakeri Lake, which is one of the few remaining lakes in Dharwar city, is fast disappearing due to lack of conservation and restoration efforts from the local communities and other user groups. Thus Eco-Watch undertook the initiative of mobilizing the communities to clean up the lake bed which was laid with a thick carpet of plastic waste and other garbage. The LDA has also supported the centre in undertaking this restoration programme.

The Police Department personnel, students from various schools, colleges and institutions like the S.D.M College of Engg. & Tech., Government Depts., & others have supported the project which took off in early February 2003. From then onwards the Centre has been making detailed studies & surveys on drawing an action plan to restore this lake which not only has environmental & ecological, but also cultural, traditional, poetical and Esthetic significance. One of the well known National Poets of our country,Da Raa Bendre was inspired by this lake & has written several poems highlighting the beauty of nature, the beauty of the colorful birds, butterflies & insects, for whom this lake was once a home.

Thus the lake attains a very high level of importance in many ways, which has led to Eco-Watch to undertake its restoration.

Activity Report for 2002 - 2003

ECO-WATCH – I.N.E.P PROJECT

COLLECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF DIVERSE TREE SPECIES OF SOUTH EASTERN DRY ZONE OF KARNATAKA AT BANGALORE, KOLAR & TUMKUR UNDER URBAN FORESTRY PROGRAMME.

Implementing Agency:

ECO-WATCH, Centre for Environment & Sustainable Development.

Introduction:

The Eco-Watch-INEP Project was initiated in March 2002. The Project is unique in its own way where in tree diversity of South Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka is being studied by the students, teachers, general communities, NGOs & others. The Project covers the three districts of Tumkur, Kolar and Bangalore which come under the South Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka.

This area was chosen for the project since no specific studies were being undertaken in the region. Eco-Watch had also been receiving a number of queries with respect to undertaking some environmental activities and programmes for the conservation and protection of the fast disappearing flora as also the fauna of this region.

In this respect, a preliminary survey and a study was undertaken in the districts of Tumkur & Kolar in order to arrive at a common conservation strategy through the local groups, students, teachers, NGOs & so on which would aid in further developing conservation models depending on the regional diversity. Due to the encouraging response this project was initiated. The Project involves various activities, which have been briefly discussed in this report. A considerable progress has been achieved since the project was initiated. A brief report of different activities/components of the project have been summarized in this report.

Mass awareness and education programme:

Selected teachers from various government schools were trained on Bio-diversity conservation, identification of flora-fauna and related environmental issues and topics.

These teachers in turn trained the students in their respective schools. The objective here is to sensitize the students on regional Bio-diversity, its importance and therefore the need to conserve them.

BIODIVERSITY REGISTRATION AND REPORTING

WATER SOURCE AND LAND PREPARATIO

Activity Report for 2001-2002

Caroline Nderitu, an actress, poet and environmentalist from Kenya, was invited by Eco-Watch to perform at different Schools in Bangalore. She runs a ‘Poetry Lab’ in Kenya wherein students from all over the world participate and get involved in various activities and events.

Eco-Watch has tied up with this unique Poetry lab to expose students to different aspects of environment in today’s world.Nearly 5000 students from different Schools were benefited through her poems, performance and presentations. Live demonstrations & presentations on wildlife conservation were the highlights of her programme.

Environment and Media Workshop, April 22nd 2002

‘Earth Day’ was celebrated by way of conducting a workshop on “Environment & Media”. Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media, Eco-Watch and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board jointly conducted the programme. Resource Persons like Prof. Madhav Gadgil (Centre for Ecological Sciences, I.I.Sc), Prof. D.K. Subramaniam (Indian Institute of Sciences), Dr. Raghu Mohan (Soil Scientist), Sri Upendra Tripathy (Chairman, KSPCB), and others participated in the programme. Interactions and discussions were part of the programme, where in students, volunteers, journalists, public and others got an opportunity to interact with resource persons and experts.

Activity Report for 2000-2001

Eco-Watch initiated the ‘Urban Forestry Project’ in the year 2000 in Bangalore. The project was implemented by the centre in 200 acres of land belonging to the Army A.S.C. centre, Airport road.

It was inaugurated by the then Worshipful Mayor of Bangalore Sri Ramachandrappa.

The Honourable Chief Minister of Karnataka, Sri. S.M. Krishna visited the project area and planted a Neem sapling. He also assured all support towards the project.

The Project has been supported by the Forest Department, Bangalore Mahanagara Palike, Horticulture wing, Bangalore City Corporation & other Government and Private agencies.

Eminent personalities such as Sri. Mohan Dharia (former Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission of India) also visited the project area and has commended the efforts under taken by Eco-Watch. Massive Afforestation work has been taken up at the project site wherein a variety of tree species are being planted. A number of fruit and flower bearing tree species, commercially beneficial species and so on have been planted at the site.

Community Participation:

Any major Afforestation or forestry programme needs to be supported by the community. Therefore community participation plays a major role in such projects. Some of the participants of the project are mentioned below:

Students from Christ College, St. Joseph’s college, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, NCC, NSS, Scouts & Guides and other Institutes and organisations have also participated during various stages of the project.

Organisations such as Lions Club, Rotary, etc., have also been a part of the project. Corporates such as Systelec Engineering, Hical Magnetics, Intel and others have supported the project.

Environmental Awareness and Education programme was conducted for nearly 2000 students from Scouts & Guides belonging to various Schools of Bangalore and surrounding areas. Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, Karnataka Compost Development Corporation, Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Ltd, Karnataka Cleaner Production Centre & others participated in the event. Students were exposed to

Noise level monitoring by Decibel meter from KSPCB; Importance of organic manure and vermicomposting by KCDC, Alternate sources of Energy (Solar Energy) by KREDL, Cleaner production and Technologies by KCPC.

Activity Report for 1999-2000

A wilderness camp was conducted in Chandavar, North Canara District, for a group of college students of Sagar, Sirsi and Karwar. The camp included activities like river crossing, kayaking and rafting in the Gangavali River.

The project Associates of Eco-Watch conducted a survey on the adverse impact of quarrying on the ecosystem and the wildlife in and around Bannerghatta National Park in May 99. The survey included interactions with the local communities living in the surroundings of the National Park, Forest Dept. and other organizations and agencies working on these issues, along with documentation by means of a video film.

A seminar on Solid Waste Disposal and Management was conducted for the general public in the month of July 99, which focused on solid waste management at household level, vermi-composting, etc.

An awareness programme on “Youth and Environment” was held around Bannerghatta National Park for students of Bangalore city in August 99.

A four months project on the socio-economic condition of inhabitants of Kudremukh National Park was carried out from August 99 which mainly focused on the impact of mining resulting in depletion of natural resources and loss of Bid-diversity, in turn affecting the livelihood of inhabitants of Kudremukh National Park area. The centre has documented these projects and compiled the reports in its library.

An awareness programme for communities in coastal region in the month of September was carried out where the negative impacts of artificial aqua culture and other artificial methods of rearing aquatic fauna was conveyed to the people involved in such practices.

A project on vegetation dynamics and impacts due to selection felling in and around Kudremukh National park was conducted in the month of October 99 which focused on final stand quality of tree species in disturbed and natural forest area. The members of Eco-Watch carried out a comparative study of both the forest types.

A programme on conservation for students of Spastic Society of Karnataka was conducted in the month of November where students were exposed to different activities like audio presentations, lectures, camping in the outdoor etc.

An adventure camp at Kali river was conducted in the month of December 99. The camp included white water rafting, trekking, outdoor camping and the like in the Dandeli region of the Western Ghats.

A project titled “Impact of selective logging on soil composition” was carried out from January to March 99, where a comparative study of soil structure and composition in the disturbed and selectively logged area was carried out. The detailed report is documented by the centre.

An environmental education and training camp was conducted for more than 150 students from different schools of Bangalore city in March 2000. The camp included various adventure activities like trekking, mountaineering and rock climbing. Identification of flora and fauna, habitat and ecosystem studies, eco-quiz, painting, essay writing, nature games, etc., were other events of the programme.

Activity Report for 1998-1999

Study tours to the Western Ghats (North Canara Dist.) region was conducted for the students of St. Joseph’s College of Arts and Science, Bangalore during April 98. A field trip was organised by the centre to the ecologically rich and fragile areas in the ghats, which is one of the Global Bio-diversity Hotspots.

An adventure cum environmental camp (May 98) was conducted by Eco-Watch for the youth and students of rural communities living in the surrounding villages of the centre. Students were exposed to adventure activities such as camping, wildlife studies and the like.

On the occasion of ‘World Environment Day’, 5th June 1998, an awareness programme cum film / slide show was conducted for school students, in association with WWF & PEAS organisations. Events such as eco-quiz, painting contests, essay writing, elocution, tree planting, street cleaning and so on were held. Certificates were distributed to the participants who took part in different contests.

Workshop and training programme on Water Resource Management was carried out for the general public in July. The workshop concentrated on traditional, simple and efficient techniques of conserving water such as Rainwater Harvesting, Groundwater Recharge, Lake Restoration and other conservation techniques.

The centre carried out a project on the socio-economic status of local communities in North Canara district in the month of August & September. The project focused on issues like depletion of natural resources and its adverse impact on the surrounding communities who depend on these resources for their daily subsistence. The project was successful in enlightening these communities about using the resources in a sustainable way.

A four-day study cum adventure camp was conducted in Coorg district in the month of October, for the students of St. Joseph’s College of Arts and Science College as study programme on the river ecology. The students were exposed to some adventure activities such as river crossing, rafting and so on.

A play called “Only a green memory”, written by Mr. Suresh Heblikar was staged at Ravindra Kalakshetra by Eco-Watch, which attracted large audience. The play focused on the need for each individual to be eco-conscious and do their bit in protecting the environment. The play was staged during the month of December 98.

Academic tour was carried out in different places in the Western Ghat region. More than 50 students from different colleges of Bangalore participated in the programme. The tour consisted of trekking and camping in the forests, interacting with local communities and field surveys. A feedback from the participants revealed that the economic conditions of the communities was critical, since large scale deforestation for setting up industries and other units was taking place in the sensitive areas.

An International Conference on “Man and Nature” was held in collaboration with OISCA International, Japan, at Indian Institute of Agricultural Technologists, Bangalore. The theme being man and environment, it highlighted the immediate steps to be taken by the Govts. throughout the world in implementing policies on climate change. The conference was attended by a number of delegates from around the world, which included a series of paper presentations, exhibitions, demonstrations and talks by the participants. A cultural programme followed the conference.

A project on vegetation dynamics and impacts due to selection felling in and around Kudremukh National park was conducted in the month of October 99 which focused on final stand quality of tree species in disturbed and natural forest area. The members of Eco-Watch carried out a comparative study of both the forest types.

A training programme was conducted for the members and volunteers of Eco-Watch, in the month of March 99 on eco development, rainwater harvesting and water management.

Activity Report for 1997-1998

Eco-watch, to the mining area in Western Ghats region, situated in and around Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. The study was conducted for students of Bangalore University during April, wherein human impact on health of ecosystems in the region was highlighted. A study trip was also conducted to some of the areas potential for community based ecotourism.

Another study was conducted for the students of Bangalore University at Kulgi Nature Camp. Bio-diversity studies, jungle walks, camping on river basins, etc., were part of the programme. A study on the flora & fauna of moist deciduous forest ecosystem was carried out during May 97. Mr. S.V. Pandit (Retd. Conservator of Forests) accompanied the team during field trips, followed by a presentation by Mr. Balagi, ACF, Dandeli Range, at the nature Camp.

An environmental awareness programme was conducted for various school students, who were exposed to various aspects of conservation in addition to some environmental awareness activities at the centre.

Post Graduate students of Environmental Sciences attended a Seminar that was conducted in the month of July 99. The seminar focused on the health hazards due to the rapid expansion of cities and subsequent rise in pollution levels due to rampant growth in industries in urban centers. Dr. Vasundhara, a Doctor and an environmentalist briefed the students on different types of ailments due to pollution and some simple remedies which could be practised by an individual including a presentation of certain case studies in Bangalore. Awareness and Training Programme was carried out for the street and slum children of Bangalore city on Health & Hygiene, focusing on cleanliness and sanitary conditions to prevent diseases & out-breaks.

Tree Planting and Lake Restoration Programme was inaugurated by Mr. Suresh Heblikar. The project was initiated by the residents, NGOs and other groups of ISRO layout.

An awareness programme for the Scouts and Guides was conducted in Chitradurga on environmental protection. The programme concentrated mainly on the present status of environment and the involvement of youth and students in safeguarding environmental and natural resources for the future.

Eco-Watch has made more than thirty films on different topics of environment, science and technology, arts, culture, etc., and has also screened them at various institutions, organisations and other places during seminars, workshops and conferences. Recently films on ecology and culture were screened at the Forest Dept. for the students and general public, which was followed, by a brief interaction and discussion between the participants and presentation. The resource personnel who were present during the An environmental awareness and education program for Government Primary English School was conducted during the month of January at the centre, where the students were exposed to field experiments, such as identification of flora and micro-fauna, tree growth measurements, plant care measure and other issues regarding forestry and forest ecosystem.

Parisara Jagruthi” a workshop on “Environmental Education” was conducted by the centre, which was attended by nearly six hundred students of different schools and colleges of Bangalore. a number of activities like exhibition, demonstrations, and cultural programmes were also held which was conducted by the students who participated in the workshop. Solid Waste Management and improvement of urban environment were the focus of this workshop.

A project on the economic upliftment of the tribe inhabiting the Nagarahole National Park was carried out during February 98 for a period of two months. Socio-economic studies, data collection, community development, culture and livelihood studies of the tribe were conducted by Project Associates of Eco-Watch, under the guidance of the Chairman Mr. Suresh Heblikar. A promotional seminar and presentation on the significance and implementation of Solid Waste Management Plant was launched in Teerthahalli, in association with Terra Firma Biotechnologies Ltd. during March 99. The usage of organic manure and its advantages over chemical fertilizers was highlighted with the help of a demonstration during the presentation.