The United Nations General Assembly’s 17 Goals for Sustainable Development (SDG’s) provide priorities to work towards the well-being of the Earth and its people. Integral University understands the importance and urgent nature of SDG’s and is committed to contribute in achievement of SDGs. The commitment towards SDGs is reflected through the work done within departments, and other units of the university. Progress reports of SDG 15 is as follows.

Research on Land Ecosystems

Research on land ecosystems focuses on understanding the complex interactions between living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) and their physical environments (soil, water, and climate). This research informs sustainable practices for conservation, restoration, and development, ensuring ecosystems continue to provide essential services like carbon sequestration, biodiversity support, and soil fertility. Approximately 69 research papers are being published in the area of Land Ecosystem.

Events about Sustainable Use of Land

SDG 15 focuses on the proportion of land that is degraded over the total land area, highlighting the need for sustainable land management to prevent further land degradation and reverse existing damage. Events related to sustainable land use and land degradation typically emphasize strategies for reversing land degradation, improving soil health, and enhancing land productivity while ensuring ecosystem stability. Here are some events and initiatives that address the sustainable use of land:

• World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
• International Year of Soils
• Global Landscapes Forum
• Conferences on Land Degradation and Restoration
• Regional Dialogues and Workshops on Land Restoration
• International Day for Biological Diversity

Sustainably Farmed Food on Campus

In the nestled heart of Integral University, we have developed nine instructional farm units including one Integral Krishi Vikas Kendra (IKVK) running under the umbrella of the IIAST. These farms are used for crop production, research, and experimentation. Overall, it plays a crucial role in advancing Agricultural knowledge practices and training the next generation of Agricultural professionals. At IKVK various awareness programs are regularly organized on several emerging issues for the farmers of the adjoining villages and to help them to incorporate the current scientific advances and technology tools in their day-to-day operations.

• Crop diversification for food security and sustainability
• Field-based cultivation of cereals and vegetables
• Production of wheat, rice, and mustard seeds
• Use of low-cost technologies (polyhouse, micro-irrigation system, biofertilizers)
• Production and cultivation of Cordyceps militaris
• Use of agricultural wastes for value addition (vermicomposting, mushroom cultivation)
• Tissue culture technology and hydroponics
• Training for entrepreneurship and skill development

Maintain and Extend Current Ecosystems’ Biodiversity

Agroforestry, aquaculture, livestock, and crops are all combined in the Integrated Farming System (IFS) to increase sustainability and productivity. It encourages biodiversity and can maximize resource utilization. By enhancing nutritional security, decreasing waste, and improving soil health, the technique can promote more resilient farming methods.

Educational Programmes on Ecosystems

Integral University offers several educational programs related to ecosystems, including:

• B.Sc. in Environmental Science: A three-year undergraduate program that requires a minimum of 50% in 12th grade. The total tuition fee is INR 120,000, and there is also a hostel fee.
• M.Sc. in Environmental Science: A two-year postgraduate program that aims to develop professionals who can create innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
• Master of Technology (Environmental Engineering): A two-year postgraduate program that aims to develop technocrats who can minimize the adverse effects of human activities on the environment.

The Department of Environmental Science at Integral University also offers a PhD degree program. The department’s research areas include:

• Air, water, and soil pollution
• Climate change and biodiversity
• Environmental impact assessment
• Bio-remediation
• Environmental toxicology
• Waste management
• Remote sensing and GIS

Sustainable Management of Land for Agriculture (Educational Outreach)

Sustainable management of land for agriculture involves using practices that ensure long-term productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Educational outreach plays a crucial role in promoting awareness, knowledge, and skills among farmers, policymakers, and communities to adopt sustainable practices.

Sustainable Management of Land for Tourism (Educational Outreach)

Sustainable management of land for tourism is a vital topic, especially as tourism continues to grow worldwide. Effective educational outreach can empower communities, tourists, and stakeholders to engage in practices that preserve the natural environment, respect local cultures, and ensure economic benefits for future generations. Below are some strategies and initiatives to create impactful educational outreach for sustainable tourism land management:

• Conservation of Natural Resources
• Cultural Sensitivity and Preservation
• Economic Benefits for Local Communities
• Minimizing Environmental Impact

Sustainable Use, Conservation and Restoration of Land (Policy)

Integral University has formulated a Policy for Sustainable use, conservation and restoration of land. https://www.iul.ac.in/IQAC/Policy.aspx

IUCN and Other Conservation Species (Policies)

Integral University has formulated a Policy for IUCN and other conservation species. https://www.iul.ac.in/IQAC/Policy.aspx

Local Biodiversity Included in Planning and Development

According to applicable laws and regulations, the buildings on our campus were designed and developed with biodiversity in mind, and they were managed in compliance with those rules and regulations throughout the development process.

Alien Species Impact Reduction (Policies)

Integral University has formulated a Policy for Alien species impact reduction. https://www.iul.ac.in/IQAC/Policy.aspx

Collaboration for Shared Land Ecosystems

Collaboration for shared land ecosystems emphasizes fostering partnerships among governments, communities, private sector actors, and civil society to manage land resources sustainably. This shared responsibility ensures that ecosystems remain productive, resilient, and capable of providing essential services such as biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, and sustainable livelihoods.

Water Discharge Guidelines and Standards

As stated in its extensive environmental policy, Integral University places a high priority on preventing and minimizing pollution, particularly from land-based activities. Important elements of this commitment consist of:

• Wastewater Treatment: To efficiently treat wastewater produced on campus, Integral University runs a domestic wastewater treatment facility.
• Recycling Wastewater: To support sustainable water management, the cleaned wastewater is recycled for a number of uses, such as irrigation of grassy regions.
• Reserved Water Resources: By directing the recycled water into infiltration wells, water resource reserve is created.
• Environmental Assessment and Monitoring: With approval from the government's environmental agency, Integral University keeps an Environmental Assessment Document. Every six months, routine monitoring and assessment reports are produced.

By taking these steps, Integral University actively supports sustainable water management techniques in addition to abiding by strict water discharge regulations and requirements. This pledge demonstrates the university's commitment to environmental stewardship and the encouragement of environmentally friendly campus operations.

Policy on Plastic Waste Reduction

Integral University has formulated a Policy on plastic waste reduction. https://www.iul.ac.in/IQAC/Policy.aspx

Policy on Hazardous Waste Disposal

Integral University has formulated a Policy on hazardous waste disposal. https://www.iul.ac.in/IQAC/Policy.aspx