In a significant environmental initiative, Mumbai University has mobilised approximately 150 affiliated colleges across seven districts to conduct a comprehensive biodiversity survey. The large-scale mapping project begins on the campuses themselves before expanding into the surrounding neighbourhoods.
Massive Student-Led Data Collection Effort
The project goes beyond a simple tree count. More than 800 students have been trained to meticulously document local flora, gathering detailed information. They are recording classification (herb, shrub, plant, tree), rarity status, height, habitat, and overall health of each species. This data is poised to form a dynamic, community-driven biodiversity register for Mumbai and surrounding districts, offering various municipal bodies access to real-time ecological information.
Structured Programme with Expert Guidance
The initiative is being executed under the guidance of Mumbai University Vice-Chancellor Ravindra Kulkarni. It is led by professor Aparna Phadke and co-facilitated by Indu George and Suhas Jejurikar, supported by 21 master facilitators. The programme receives backing from the British Council under its Climate Skills programme and the HSBC.
Beyond the 800 students, the university has also trained over 200 faculty members and representatives from 16 NGOs across the seven involved districts, ensuring wide reach and expert supervision.
Building a Comprehensive Ecological Database
Professor Aparna Phadke explained that the participating students will collaborate with local self-governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to kickstart climate action in their specific areas. These social actions are expected to contribute directly to creating and updating a public biodiversity register.
A detailed questionnaire has been circulated to all student participants to ensure uniform and thorough data collection. It seeks information on:
- Local and scientific names of flora.
- Type and habitat (freshwater, mangrove, saline, terrestrial).
- Occurrence frequency (common, rare, very rare).
- Cultural significance, such as association with local deities or heritage status.
- Tree health (good, bad, moderate, infested).
- Origin classification (native, exotic, invasive).
Phadke highlighted that existing tree censuses are often incomplete. This exercise, with colleges spread across the urban landscape, will help build a detailed city-wide ecological profile, including crucial data on rare and endangered species, invaluable for local municipal authorities.
Part of a Larger Climate Education Mission
This biodiversity mapping is one component of a broader partnership. The British Council programme aims to tackle India's climate change vulnerabilities by actively engaging Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Mumbai University is one of only three HEIs in India selected as a partner for this ambitious climate skills initiative, marking it as a leader in academic-driven environmental action.
