Centre of Excellence (CoE) - Nature Based Solutions

Industry collaboration: Total environment

Principal Investigator: Dr. Mithun Hanumesh, Mr. Mohan M

Abstract:

This study investigates the optimal geotextile layer for extensive green roofs with Sedum vegetation, focusing on performance, climatic adaptability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Simulation experiments, microstructural analyses, and durability tests were conducted to evaluate woven, nonwoven, and composite geotextiles, with emphasis on balancing drainage efficiency and water retention. Sensor-based monitoring was employed to track plant growth rate, substrate moisture, and temperature fluctuations under varying seasonal conditions, while substrate compositions were systematically modified and their influence on vegetation growth was assessed. Substrate thickness was also optimized for extensive roof applications. This study thus aims to provide a reference framework for architects, engineers, and policymakers in developing sustainable green roof systems tailored to regional climatic demands.

Principal Investigator: Dr. Mithun Hanumesh, Mr. Mohan M

Abstract:

Green roofs provide multiple ecosystem services, including thermal regulation, stormwater management, and biodiversity enhancement. Despite their proven benefits, adoption in India remains minimal due to challenges with heavy substrates, structural limitations, and lack of context-specific research. This study aims to optimize lightweight and sustainable substrate compositions suitable for Indian buildings and climatic conditions. Locally available materials such as biochar, cocopeat, vermi-compost, construction waste, red soil, LECA, Perlite are being tested and their ability to reduce structural load while supporting water retention, plant health, and thermal insulation. Experimental methods include laboratory characterisation, rooftop test beds, and accelerated ageing simulations to evaluate moisture retention, substrate stability, plant survivability, and leachate quality. Industry collaboration ensures real-world relevance and scalability. The expected outcome is the identification of substrate blends that are both cost-effective and high performing, enabling wider adoption of green roofs in Indian cities. This research contributes to sustainable urban development, energy conservation, and national green building frameworks.

Industry Collaboration: FoodWize

Principal Investigator: Dr. Mithun Hanumesh, Mr. Mohan M, Mr. Vishnu T

Abstract:

Urban food systems are increasingly challenged by climate change, land scarcity, and nutritional insecurity. This project explores the potential of purslane (Portulaca oleracea), locally known as goni soppu, as a sustainable and underutilized food source. Purslane is a hardy succulent that thrives in diverse conditions—growing in cracks, walls, streets, and fields—requiring minimal inputs while offering high nutritional value rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Our innovation focuses on repositioning purslane from a common “weed” to a nutritious and accessible superfood through awareness, urban integration, and food-based product development. By leveraging its resilience and nutritional profile, purslane can contribute to sustainable diets, food security, and climate-resilient agriculture. The project aligns with the principles of circularity, resource efficiency, and community engagement, making it a scalable solution for both rural and urban contexts in India.This approach highlights how local biodiversity, when reimagined through innovation, can address global challenges of sustainability, health, and resilience in food systems.

Principal Investigator: Dr. Mithun Hanumesh, Mr. Mohan M

Abstract:

Urban slums are among the most vulnerable spaces in our cities—densely populated, with limited access to green spaces, poor air quality, and minimal resilience to climate change. SlumBloom seeks to reimagine slum landscapes by introducing low-cost, community-driven greening solutions such as vertical gardens, container farming, and micro-rooftop gardens. Using locally available materials (discarded containers, coir, composted waste), the project integrates nature-based solutions into everyday living spaces, improving thermal comfort, air purification, and food security. This initiative is not only ecological but also deeply social, as it empowers slum communities—particularly women and youth—through participation, skills training, and co-ownership of green assets. SlumBloom demonstrates how inclusive green design can transform vulnerable neighbourhood into climate-resilient, healthier, and more dignified living environments.

Principal Investigator: Dr. Mithun Hanumesh, Mr. Mohan M

Abstract:

Inspired by the ancient Indian philosophy of the Pancha Bhutas—Earth (Prithvi), Water (Jala), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Space (Akasha)—this project translates timeless wisdom into modern sustainability practice. Each element is reinterpreted through an engineering lens for campus-scale interventions:

• Earth (ReSoil): Waste-to-soil solutions using campus organics and plastics.
• Water (Sponge Campus): Bioswales, permeable pavements, and rain gardens.
• Fire (Urban Cooling): Passive thermal regulation with vegetation and reflective surfaces.
• Air (Vayu Netra): Mapping Wi-Fi radiation and dust zones, using green barriers for mitigation.
• Space (Sky Greens): Rooftop gardens as social and biodiversity hubs.
  Together, these interventions form a living laboratory for students, demonstrating how cultural ethos and cutting-edge sustainability can co-exist. Panchabhuta aligns with the CoE’s mission to connect tradition with modern science, offering scalable models for campuses and communities nationwide.

Principal Investigator: Dr. Mithun Hanumesh, Mr. Vishnu T

Abstract:

Soil is at the heart of life, yet urbanization continuously erodes fertile land and increases dependency on external soil sources for greening projects. ReSoil proposes a regenerative approach—transforming campus-generated waste streams (organic waste, leaf litter, shredded paper, plastics) into engineered soil replacement media for urban greening. By combining biochar, compost, and processed waste fines, the project creates a lightweight, nutrient-rich substrate suitable for planters, green roofs, and roadside plantations. This solution reduces landfill burden, enhances carbon sequestration, and provides a sustainable alternative to unsustainable soil mining. With applications in both infrastructure and community greening, ReSoil demonstrates circular economy principles in action, making waste a resource for healthier urban ecosystems.

Principal Investigator: Dr. Mithun Hanumesh, Mr. Mohan M

Abstract:

Chandapura Greenprint envisions a localized, replicable framework for community-centered urban sustainability around Alliance University. By mapping the ecological challenges of the Chandapura–Anekal region—flooding, waste mismanagement, and rising temperatures—the project co-creates design strategies with local residents, industries, and civic bodies. Proposed interventions include mini rain gardens for flood mitigation, urban cooling corridors through tree planting, and waste-to-resource systems like compost hubs and plastic reuse models. By aligning with SDGs and BBMP/industrial CSR priorities, the project demonstrates how a university can serve as a knowledge hub for its surrounding communities, bridging research with real-world urban challenges. Chandapura Greenprint offers a practical roadmap for small towns and peri-urban areas to transition toward resilience and sustainability.