Ecoensa has launched a special initiative on the occasion of International Biodiversity Day dedicated to the protection and revival of urban bird species. On the occasion of International Biodiversity Day, Ecoensa launched a heartfelt initiative titled “Bring Back Chiriyas in Our Neighbourhood” to revive and protect our cherished urban passerines—especially the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) and Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata). Once a common presence in Indian homes and public spaces, birds like the house sparrow and scaly-breasted munia have quietly vanishing from urban landscapes, primarily due to widespread habitat loss. This decline is closely tied to rapid urbanization, which has transformed building structures and reduced traditional nesting spaces for these birds. Modern architectural designs lack the crevices and cavities that older buildings naturally offered, critically limiting safe breeding sites for small passerines (Bhattacharya et al., 2011). Furthermore, urban ecosystems have witnessed a sharp decline in insect populations and one of the main causes is the use of pesticides and loss of native vegetation cover, which directly affects chick survival during the breeding season (Narayan & Kumar, 2019). The shift to high-rise concrete structures has also fragmented green patches, turning cities into ecological traps where isolated trees and parks no longer support bird populations (Sharma & Khera, 2020). Air pollution compounds the problem by causing oxidative stress in birds, weakening their immune systems and reproductive success, especially in high-traffic urban zones (Kumar et al., 2014). Additionally, recent concerns have emerged around electromagnetic radiation from mobile towers disrupting avian orientation and behaviour, though more robust research is still needed in this area (Kaur, 2015). These threats collectively explain the 80–90% decline in urban sparrow populations observed in major cities such as Delhi over the past 15 years (Choudhary et al 2020, Sharma & Binner, 2020). Why Sparrows Matter Sparrows, though small and often overlooked, play a crucial ecological role in urban and semi-urban ecosystems. As granivorous and insectivorous birds, they contribute significantly to natural pest control by feeding on a wide variety of insects, especially during breeding seasons when their chicks rely heavily on protein-rich diets (Narayan & Kumar, 2019). This makes sparrows a natural ally for urban agriculture and garden biodiversity, helping maintain a balanced ecological web. Furthermore, their seed-eating habits aid in seed dispersal, indirectly supporting plant regeneration in green patches, roadside vegetation, and urban parks (Khera et al., 2010). Beyond their ecological functions, sparrows are also important indicators of environmental health. A thriving sparrow population typically signals a relatively clean, safe, and biologically diverse environment. Their sensitivity to pollution, habitat fragmentation, and changes in food availability makes them a biological barometer for assessing the impact of urban development on biodiversity (Kumar et al., 2014). The social nature of these birds also fosters early environmental awareness among children, often being the first wild bird they recognize, thereby becoming a natural link between communities and biodiversity (Ali & Ripley, 1987). Beyond their ecological functions, sparrows have deep-rooted cultural and emotional associations across the globe. In Indian folklore, they symbolize domestic harmony and innocence, appearing in countless folk songs, poems, and local traditions. A decline in their numbers, therefore, often reflects deeper environmental degradation, making their presence or absence a red flag for policymakers and conservationists. Moreover, sparrows hold cultural and emotional value. For generations, these birds have coexisted with humans, nesting in homes, chirping in courtyards, and acting as an everyday connection to the natural world. Their decline symbolizes a broader disconnect between urban living and ecological consciousness. But most importantly, they teach our children to watch, wait, and listen to the music of everyday life—now at risk of going quiet. Restoring sparrow populations isn’t just about saving a species, it’s about rekindling our relationship with the environment and nurturing urban ecosystems for future generations. Handcrafted Nests, Heartcrafted Hope At the heart of this initiative is community-driven action. Ecoensa collaborated with a group of women artisans from semi-urban and rural pockets to create handmade nests using natural fibers. These nests are designed to offer a safe space for chiriyas to breed, shelter, and return. This effort not only supports biodiversity restoration, but also empowers women artisans—giving their skills purpose and visibility. Voices from the Ground “This isn’t just about the birds. It’s about reviving our connection with nature. When sparrows return, peace follows,” said Dr. Archana Naithani, founder of Ecoensa private limited who led the initiative and personally distributed the nests across neighbourhoods in Noida. Under the Ecoensa’s initiative “Bring Back Chiriyas in Our Neighbourhood”, the team is distributing handmade nests crafted by women artisans, Ecoensa’s aim to counteract the nesting site shortage and restore microhabitats. This initiative not only empowers local women artisans but also reintroduces vital ecological functions by supporting breeding and foraging behaviours of small birds. Promoting awareness and habitat stewardship at the neighbourhood level becomes essential if we are to reverse the silent disappearance of our urban feathered friends. How You Can Help? Next Phase: 5000 Nests – 100 Localities This pilot is just the beginning. Ecoensa aims to scale this campaign to 5000 nests across 100 localities in the next 6 months. If you’re a school, housing society, CSR group, or municipal body interested in partnering with us, please reach out at: info@ecoensa.com Let’s bring back the chirping, one nest at a time. Team Ecoensa References:
Photo courtesy: WiNNMexico 2025 Ecoensa had the honour of participating in the Women in Nature Network (WiNN) 2025 gathering held in the vibrant cultural backdrop of Mexico. As a guest participant, Ecoensa proudly carried the spirit of community, conservation, and connection all the way from India, to the international forum that brought together inspiring women from 12 countries across the globe. A Global Gathering of Changemakers This year’s WiNN event served as a melting pot of experiences, passion, and leadership—featuring women from Argentina, Botswana, England, Indonesia, India, Kenya, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Tanzania, the United States, and more. Each attendee carried powerful stories of working at the grassroots, protecting ecosystems, supporting communities, and paving new paths in conservation and sustainability. A Token of Gratitude – Handmade with Love As a meaningful gesture, Ecoensa distributed 100 beautifully handcrafted items—lovingly made by marginalized women artisans in India under the Ecoensa flagship, with guidance from Dr. Archana Naithani. These artisanal gifts were not mere souvenirs—they were a symbol of gratitude, love, and sisterhood, honoring the women in conservation who are nurturing both nature and communities. Each piece reflected the resilience, creativity, and hopes of the women artisans, who often face socio-economic challenges, yet contribute meaningfully to both cultural heritage and sustainable livelihoods. Through Ecoensa’s platform, these women found a global stage, with their creations now cherished by changemakers around the world. Empowering Women, Uplifting Communities Ecoensa’s philosophy is rooted in ecological responsibility, community empowerment, and inclusive progress. By bringing handcrafted gifts to the WiNN gathering, Ecoensa sought not just to showcase Indian craftsmanship but to foster cross-cultural appreciation and solidarity among women working tirelessly for planet and people. Closing Reflections The 2025 WiNN event in Mexico was not just a meeting—it was a celebration of collective spirit, diverse cultures, and shared missions. Ecoensa was proud to be part of this extraordinary space, where voices from every corner of the world echoed the same commitment: to protect nature and empower women. Here’s to more collaborations, deeper connections, and a greener, more inclusive future.
Time Magazine’s Women of the Year 2025 (Source: Purnima Devi Barman/Instagram) In February 2025, Purnima Devi Barman’s unwavering commitment to conservation and community engagement was globally recognized when she was named among Time Magazine’s Women of the Year. This accolade celebrates 12 extraordinary leaders worldwide who are working towards a more equitable and sustainable future. Barman stands as the sole Indian woman honored in this list, underscoring the global impact of her grassroots initiatives. Her inclusion not only highlights her significant contributions to wildlife conservation but also emphasizes the vital role of community-driven efforts in addressing environmental challenges. Ecoensa salutes her courage and dedication in saving an endangered species while transforming the lives of thousands of women in Assam. A Lifelong Commitment to Saving the Hargila Purnima Devi Barman, a distinguished wildlife biologist from Assam, India, has dedicated her life to the conservation of the greater adjutant stork (Leptoptilos dubius), locally known as the “hargila.” This species, once widespread across India and Southeast Asia, faced a dramatic decline, with fewer than 1,200 mature individuals remaining by the early 2000s. The primary threats to their survival included habitat destruction, pollution, and negative local perceptions. Her journey began in 2007 during her Ph.D. research in Assam’s Kamrup district. She witnessed the felling of a tree that housed a hargila nest—an event that underscored the community’s disdain for the bird, often viewed as a bad omen or pest. Determined to change this narrative, Barman postponed her doctoral studies to focus on community-based conservation efforts. The Hargila Army: A Women-Led Conservation Movement To combat the declining population of hargilas, Barman founded the Hargila Army, an all-female grassroots movement that has grown to over 20,000 members. These women play a pivotal role in protecting nesting sites, rescuing fallen chicks, and rehabilitating injured storks. Their initiatives have not only bolstered the hargila population but also empowered the women economically and socially. By producing and selling textiles adorned with hargila motifs, they have seamlessly integrated conservation with sustainable livelihoods. Thanks to Barman’s relentless efforts, the number of hargila nests in the Kamrup district has increased from 28 in 2007 to over 200 in recent years, making it the largest breeding colony of greater adjutant storks globally. Her innovative approach has blended traditional Assamese culture with conservation, transforming community attitudes towards the stork. The hargila is now celebrated in local festivals, songs, and rituals, symbolizing a successful fusion of cultural heritage and wildlife preservation. Recognition and Global Impact Barman’s groundbreaking work has garnered international recognition. In 2017, she received the Whitley Award, often referred to as the “Green Oscar,” for her conservation efforts. The Government of India honored her with the Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian award for women, acknowledging her contributions to both conservation and women’s empowerment. In 2022, the United Nations Environment Programme awarded her the Champions of the Earth award in the Entrepreneurial Vision category, highlighting her innovative and sustainable conservation strategies. Beyond her work with the Hargila Army, Barman serves as the Director of Species Restoration and Community Climate Education at the Rewilding Academy. She is also associated with Aaranyak, a leading wildlife NGO based in Guwahati, Assam, and leads the Women in Nature Network (WiNN) India chapter. Her leadership extends to hosting international conferences, such as the Women in Nature Network conference in 2019, which brought together women conservationists from 13 countries. A Legacy of Conservation and Empowerment Purnima Devi Barman’s journey exemplifies how community engagement and cultural integration can lead to successful conservation outcomes. Her work not only safeguards a once-neglected species but also empowers communities, particularly women, fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. Her recent recognition in TIME Magazine’s Women of the Year list reaffirms the importance of grassroots movements in global conservation efforts. Through her leadership, dedication, and innovative approaches, she continues to inspire a new generation of environmental warriors. Ecoensa proudly acknowledges her invaluable contributions, standing in solidarity with her mission to protect biodiversity and uplift communities through conservation. Wikipedia – Purnima Devi Barman’s Wikipedia Page Instagram – Purnima Devi Barman’s Official Instagram Rewilding Academy – Purnima Devi Barman’s Profile United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) – Champions of the Earth 2022 – Purnima Devi Barman EarthCare Awards – Dr. Purnima Devi Barman’s Award Recognition Sanctuary Nature Foundation – Dr. Purnima Devi Barman’s Achievements TIME Magazine (2025) – Recognition in Women of the Year List (Latest news source)
Global warming is one of the most pressing issues facing humanity today. Rising global temperatures, largely due to the emission of greenhouse gases, have led to more frequent and severe weather events, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels. One of the most potent ways to combat global warming is through a global transition to renewable energy sources. This blog post aims to shed light on the role of renewable energy in mitigating the effects of global warming. What is Renewable Energy? Renewable energy is generated from natural processes that are continuously replenished, including sunlight, wind, water, and geothermal heat. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energies produce minimal or no greenhouse gases, contributing less to global warming and climate change (Jacobson & Delucchi, 2011). The main types of renewable energy sources include: Solar Energy: Derived from the sun’s radiation, solar energy can be harnessed using solar panels to generate electricity or for direct heating applications. Wind Energy: Generated by harnessing the kinetic energy of the wind through wind turbines, which convert the energy into electricity. Hydroelectric Energy: Produced by the movement of water, typically in rivers or dams, that turns turbines to generate electricity. Geothermal Energy: Extracted from the Earth’s internal heat, geothermal energy is utilized for electricity generation and direct heating applications. Biomass Energy: Derived from organic materials such as plants, wood, and agricultural or municipal waste, which can be burned or converted into biofuels for energy production. These renewable sources are considered environmentally friendly because they produce minimal or zero emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants compared to conventional fossil fuels. The use of renewable energy is a key component of efforts to address climate change, reduce dependence on non-renewable resources, and create a more sustainable and resilient energy system. Why is Renewable Energy Important in Mitigating Global Warming? Renewable energy plays a crucial role in mitigating global warming due to its inherent environmental benefits and potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The combustion of fossil fuels for energy production is a primary contributor to the increase in atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases, leading to the greenhouse effect and global warming. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal, offer cleaner alternatives to traditional fossil fuels. These sources generate electricity without producing the same level of carbon emissions, making them essential components of a low-carbon energy transition. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), transitioning to renewable energy sources is a key strategy to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. The IPCC’s Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C emphasizes the urgency of reducing carbon emissions and highlights the significant role of renewable energy in achieving this goal. Carbon Emission Reduction: One of the most significant benefits of renewable energy is the drastic reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Traditional fossil fuel burning is the largest source of carbon dioxide, one of the primary greenhouse gases contributing to global warming (IPCC, 2014). Energy Independence: Renewable energy resources are local, so nations can produce their electricity, reducing dependency on foreign energy and increasing national security (Apergis & Payne, 2010). Sustainable Development: Renewable energy projects often create jobs and lead to technological advancements that benefit other sectors as well. In doing so, they offer a path to sustainable economic development that is also environmentally friendly (Kammen & Sunter, 2016). Challenges Intermittency and Reliability: One of the critical challenges with renewable energy is intermittency—the sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow. Thus, storage solutions and grid modernizations are needed to ensure a constant energy supply (Denholm et al., 2019). Initial Costs: Another challenge is the high initial cost of renewable energy technologies. However, the prices of solar panels and wind turbines have fallen dramatically in recent years, making them increasingly competitive with fossil fuels (Lazard, 2020). Conclusion: The science is clear: global warming is real, and its impacts are already evident. Switching to renewable energy is not only necessary but is also beneficial for economies and societies at large. Though challenges like intermittency and high initial costs exist, technological innovations are rapidly overcoming these issues. The role of renewable energy in mitigating global warming is vital, offering a sustainable and efficient way to combat this global crisis. References: