Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune
(DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
More than 10% of the global population lives in extreme poverty today; they struggle to fulfil the most basic needs like health needs, educational desires, and access to healthy water, sanitation, and clothing. Most people living on less than the minimum daily financial needs are common in rural areas. Worldwide, the poverty rate in rural areas is 17.2 %—more than three times higher than in urban areas. One child amongst five lives in extreme poverty. Ensuring social protection for all children, especially girls and other vulnerable groups, is critical to reducing poverty. It shows up as starvation and malnutrition, restricted access to healthcare and other necessities.
Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) emphasizes the critical need to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. Recognized as a cornerstone of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, SDG 14 highlights the essential role that healthy marine ecosystems play in supporting biodiversity, regulating climate, and providing livelihoods for millions of people worldwide. Covering more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, oceans are vital not only for their rich biodiversity but also for their contributions to food security and economic stability.
Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, acknowledges the importance of SDG 14 and is committed to fostering awareness and action regarding marine conservation. Our institution aims to contribute to the global discourse on sustainable development by promoting research, education, and community engagement focused on the protection of marine ecosystems.
Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, is actively contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water) through a variety of impactful initiatives that promote marine conservation and sustainable practices.
One of the key actions involves organizing health camps focused on water quality and sanitation. These camps not only provide essential health services to local communities but also educate participants about the importance of clean water and its direct correlation to marine health. Additionally, the institution emphasizes environmental education by raising awareness about the conservation of water resources. Through workshops and community outreach programs, students and faculty engage with the public, promoting sustainable water usage practices and highlighting the critical role of healthy aquatic ecosystems. These initiatives aim to foster a sense of responsibility towards protecting local water bodies from pollution and over-exploitation.
Tree planting drives organized by the university further enhance these efforts. By restoring local habitats and improving biodiversity, these initiatives contribute to better water management and climate resilience. Trees play a vital role in preventing soil erosion, maintaining water cycles, and enhancing the overall health of ecosystems, which indirectly supports marine life.
Tree sapling distribution to the patients by Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College on world environment day
Furthermore, the curriculum at Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth includes comprehensive education on proper biomedical waste management. This aspect is crucial, as improper disposal of medical waste can lead to water contamination, adversely affecting both human health and marine environments. By instilling this knowledge in students, the university ensures that future healthcare professionals understand their role in safeguarding aquatic ecosystems.
Tree plantation activity on the occasion of World Environment Day by Dr. D. Y. Patil School of Science and Technology
Lecture on Biomedical waste management, importance of water and energy conservation on World Environment Day by Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics institute
Swaccha Bharat Abhiyan” by students of Dr. D. Y. Patil School of Science and Technology"
Through these multifaceted approaches, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth is making significant strides toward achieving SDG 14, fostering a culture of conservation and responsible management of water resources among students and the broader community.
At Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute Pune, we explore the depths of marine biotechnology through advanced academic programs and groundbreaking research. Our Marine Biotechnology course, offered to Third Year-Semester VI of B. Tech. (Biotechnology), B. Tech (Medical Biotechnology), M. Tech (Integrated)6th semester), where students delve into marine ecosystems' biology, chemistry, and biotechnology applications which reflects our commitment to the field. This program equips students with hands-on experience in exploring the mysteries of marine organisms and ecosystems, providing insights into biotechnological applications that can benefit humanity.
The course emphasizes critical areas such as:
Our Marine Biotechnology course focuses on the study of marine organisms, their genetic makeup, and their potential for industrial and pharmaceutical applications. This curriculum includes theoretical aspects but also practical laboratory techniques. One such technique used extensively in our labs is analysis of biomolecules and proteins derived from marine species. Through such methods, students gain essential skills in molecular biology, which are foundational for marine biotechnology research.
Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, has implemented several initiatives to promote sustainability and water conservation across its campus. These efforts align with the university's commitment to environmental stewardship, ensuring the efficient use of water resources. The primary water conservation strategies include rainwater harvesting, borewell recharge, wastewater recycling, maintaining water bodies, and a comprehensive water conservation policy.
The university has installed a robust rainwater harvesting system in Ayurveda and Medical colleges in Pimpri and at Tathwade campus as well. It collects and stores rainwater. This system channels rainwater from rooftops and paved areas into underground storage tanks, which is then used for non-potable purposes such as gardening, cleaning, and flushing toilets. By capturing rainwater, the institution reduces its dependency on external water supply and contributes to replenishing local groundwater levels. The system is designed to efficiently capture runoff from monsoons, ensuring minimal water wastage.
The university has installed a robust rainwater harvesting system in Ayurveda and Medical colleges in Pimpri and at Tathwade campus as well. It collects and stores rainwater. This system channels rainwater from rooftops and paved areas into underground storage tanks, which is then used for non-potable purposes such as gardening, cleaning, and flushing toilets. By capturing rainwater, the institution reduces its dependency on external water supply and contributes to replenishing local groundwater levels. The system is designed to efficiently capture runoff from monsoons, ensuring minimal water wastage.
One of the key components of the Vidyapeeth’s water conservation strategy is wastewater recycling. The campus is equipped with a 4 Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) that treat wastewater generated from residential areas, academic buildings, and laboratories. The total capacity of STP is 1170 m3/day. STP water quality is checked at regular intervals. The treated water is then reused for landscaping, flushing, and cooling systems, significantly reducing freshwater demand. This recycling process not only conserves water but also minimizes the environmental impact by reducing wastewater discharge into natural water bodies.
The water distribution system across the campus is well-maintained to prevent leaks and water wastage. A dedicated team monitors the distribution network, ensuring that pipelines and storage tanks are in optimal condition. Periodic audits are conducted to identify areas of improvement and upgrade old infrastructure as needed.
Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth has established a comprehensive water conservation policy to guide its sustainable water management practices. This policy outlines the institution’s commitment to reducing water consumption, promoting rainwater harvesting, utilizing recycled water, and maintaining water bodies. It also emphasizes the importance of educating students, staff, and faculty about the need for water conservation through awareness programs and workshops. The policy is designed to foster a culture of sustainability and ensure that water is used responsibly across all campus operations.
Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth has established a comprehensive water conservation policy to guide its sustainable water management practices. This policy outlines the institution’s commitment to reducing water consumption, promoting rainwater harvesting, utilizing recycled water, and maintaining water bodies. It also emphasizes the importance of educating students, staff, and faculty about the need for water conservation through awareness programs and workshops. The policy is designed to foster a culture of sustainability and ensure that water is used responsibly across all campus operations.
At Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, we recognize that while our city may not have direct access to oceans, our rivers and lakes play a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems and communities. Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) involves a commitment to the sustainable management of these freshwater resources, which are integral to life both below and above water.
The research at the institute explores biomolecules from different ecosystems. In addition to exploring marine and fresh water resources, our research addresses global environmental challenges, such as marine pollution and the sustainable management of bio-resources. A key focus is on bioremediation strategies for removing toxic pollutants, including heavy metals, from freshwater systems. Our patented methods for the removal of metals from aqueous solutions have gained international recognition.
Previous research publications have explored various aspects of marine life, including the discovery of novel compounds with antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Our focus on bioprospecting of microbial flora from water and saline sources has led to several successful projects funded by Government of India. Our research in marine biotechnology extends to the utilization of marine resources, such as chitin, a bioactive compound derived from marine organisms, for various biotechnological applications. This research not only helps in advancing knowledge but also addresses crucial environmental issues such as waste management and pollution reduction. Our publications have contributed significantly to the recycling of marine bioresources, including the study of agarose, agar waste, and bioremediation. These discoveries open doors for sustainable solutions in biomedicine, environmental conservation, and industrial applications.
By prioritizing research and innovation, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth aims to contribute to the preservation of freshwater ecosystems, ultimately supporting the broader goals of sustainable development and environmental stewardship in our region.
TDT, Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, April 2020-March 2023 Segregation and management of laboratory wastes for resource recovery and value addition.
PI: Dr. Viniti Vaidya DYPBBI Co-PI: Dr. Neelu Nawani.
Project value: Rs. 50 lakhs
| Authors | Publication | Year | Journal Name |
|
Tabassum H, Ahmad IZ |
Applications of metallic nanomaterials for the treatment of water |
2022 |
Letters in Applied Microbiology |
|
Puntambekar Ashwini N., Bharat L.K., Venkateswara Swamy K., Dake Manjusha S. |
Isolation, purification and biochemical characterization of a thermophilic alkaline protease from hot water spring bacteria |
2022 |
Research Journal of Biotechnology |
|
Nawani N., Rahman A., Mandal A. |
Microbial biomass for sustainable remediation of wastewater |
2022 |
Biomass, Biofuels, Biochemicals: Circular Bioeconomy: Technologies for Waste Remediation |
|
Gaikwad S., Pawar N.J., Bedse P., Wagh V., Kadam A. |
Delineation of groundwater potential zones using vertical electrical sounding (VES) in a complex bedrock geological setting of the West Coast of India |
2022 |
Modeling Earth Systems and Environment |
|
Kadam A., Wagh V., Jacobs J., Patil S., Pawar N., Umrikar B., Sankhua R., Kumar S. |
Integrated approach for the evaluation of groundwater quality through hydro geochemistry and human health risk from Shivganga river basin, Pune, Maharashtra, India |
2022 |
Environmental Science and Pollution Research |