Focus Areas

Nature-Based Solutions: Coastal Climate Resilience and Biodiversity

Protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable ecosystems

AKAH is engaged in the development of ecosystem-based models for coastal restoration and biodiversity conservation. These efforts aim to enhance the resilience of communities in the face of climate change and natural hazards. By adopting community-led and data-driven approaches to adaptation, AKAH advocates for inclusive policies and actions that are informed by risk assessments. Its initiatives are aligned with the national and state action plans for climate change, ensuring a coordinated and effective response to the challenges at hand.

Biodiversity
Conservation

Biodiversity plays a crucial role in promoting the well-being of communities by maintaining a balanced climate, ensuring an adequate water supply, and supporting food production.
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Ecosystem-Based
Climate Change Adaptation

The goal of ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) is to enhance the resilience of communities and ecosystems against the impacts of climate change by harnessing the inherent functions and benefits of natural ecosystems.
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Enabling
Policy and Advocacy

AKAH emphasizes the importance of the role of effective policy and advocacy in biodiversity conservation.
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Herd of wild buffaloes drinking water from a restored water body

Biodiversity Conservation

Biodiversity plays a crucial role in promoting the well-being of communities by maintaining a balanced climate, ensuring an adequate water supply, and supporting food production. Additionally, it provides essential ecosystem services like pollination and nutrient cycling. Unfortunately, biodiversity faces various threats, including the loss of natural habitats, climate change, and overexploitation.
To safeguard species and their genetic diversity for future generations, AKAH is dedicated to biodiversity conservation initiatives. It strives to preserve forests through the implementation of projects that focus on both the social and environmental needs of communities. This comprehensive approach aims to achieve environmental objectives while simultaneously addressing poverty, enhancing access to basic services and livelihoods, and fostering an improved quality of life.

Couple of peahens roam around in a restored natural habitat

ECOSYSTEM-BASED CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION

The goal of ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) is to enhance the resilience of communities and ecosystems against the impacts of climate change by harnessing the inherent functions and benefits of natural ecosystems. EbA techniques offer benefits for both people and the environment, ranging from wetland restoration to mitigate sea-level rise to forest conservation and restoration for mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events.
Recognizing the crucial role of ecosystems in climate regulation, AKAH places significant emphasis on initiatives such as water regulation, carbon sequestration, and coastal protection. Additionally, AKAH supports green livelihoods to foster resilience in both natural systems and communities.

A man carriers foliage

ENABLING POLICY AND ADVOCACY

AKAH emphasizes the importance of the role of effective policy and advocacy in biodiversity conservation. This is done through action-based research and outcomes are disseminated with policymakers and actively collaborates with government and other stakeholders. AKAH also plays a crucial role in equipping policymakers with the necessary knowledge and tools to engage in effective advocacy for biodiversity conservation.

Water Security Management

Building dignity, health, and wellbeing through effective water management

AKAH is committed to ensuring water availability, accessibility, and reliability for all through community-led models. These models tackle various issues related to equitable water distribution, groundwater replenishment, water conservation, and enhancing water quality. AKAH achieves this by constructing water harvesting structures, improving existing water bodies, and bolstering community-level water governance. By implementing these measures, AKAH strives to create sustainable solutions that benefit communities and promote the efficient management of water resources.

Groundwater
Management

The increasing demands for groundwater, coupled with the impacts of climate change and land-use changes, pose significant threats to this essential resource.
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Improving
Water Quality

Declining water quality is an increasing issue of concern as human population grows, industrial and agricultural activities expand, and climate change threatens to cause major alterations to the hydrological cycle.
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Conservation of
Existing Water Bodies

In addition to groundwater recharge initiatives, AKAH promotes protecting existing water supply sources. It is committed to conserving and improving and replenishing borewells, handpumps, wells in water stressed areas.
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An AKAH representative takes measurement to restore a well in a village

GROUND WATER MANAGEMENT

The increasing demands for groundwater, coupled with the impacts of climate change and land-use changes, pose significant threats to this essential resource. Effective groundwater management entails finding a balance among the needs of different stakeholders and uses, including drinking water and sanitation, agriculture, and industry, while also ensuring the preservation of this valuable resource for future generations.
AKAH actively evaluates the challenges and obstacles related to sustainable and equitable groundwater management. It utilizes scientific knowledge to inform locally led community-level actions and shape policies. With years of experience, an extensive network, and technical expertise, AKAH collaborates with diverse stakeholders to develop participatory and inclusive approaches to water governance. This ensures that communities and other stakeholders actively participate, have access to relevant information, and gain a better understanding of water resource management for the collective benefit.

A couple of school kids collect water from a nearby restored pond

IMPROVING QUALITY

Declining water quality is an increasing issue of concern as human population grows, industrial and agricultural activities expand, and climate change threatens to cause major alterations to the hydrological cycle. Waterborne diseases are rampant due to high levels of biological contamination of water. Water contamination not only affects human health, but also has a severely negative impact on freshwater biodiversity. Besides its usefulness for humans, freshwater is crucial for the survival of numerous animals that inhabit and depend on it for their survival.
AKAH’s water security initiatives promote water quality surveillance and mobilizes communities for adopting appropriate systems for clean water.

A woman collects water from a restored well with adequate security railings

CONSERVATION OF Existing WATER BODIES

In addition to groundwater recharge initiatives, AKAH promotes protecting existing water supply sources. It is committed to conserving and improving and replenishing borewells, handpumps, wells in water stressed areas. This is done by repair and construction. By focusing on the preservation and restoration of these vital water sources, AKAH aims to enhance the resilience and well-being of communities, particularly those most in need.

Enviroshala: School Resilience

Creating environmentally conscious future generations

AKAH engages children to empower them to become ‘Environmental Ambassadors’ to advocate, innovate and lead youth-centered interventions for water and waste management. AKAH works with schools to improve infrastructure, promote green spaces and implement green energy initiatives. This is a comprehensive school initiative that promotes institutional safety and environmental responsibility to create a culture of preparedness and build resilience.

Infrastructure
Improvement

Schools serve as crucial infrastructure and can provide safe shelter for communities during disasters. AKAH conducts assessments and audits in schools to ensure their safety and resilience.
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Environment
Clubs

Environment education in schools plays a crucial role in instilling a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.
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INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT

Schools serve as crucial infrastructure and can provide safe shelter for communities during disasters. AKAH conducts assessments and audits in schools to ensure their safety and resilience. This includes ensuring the structural integrity of the buildings and promoting safe health and hygiene practices among children. AKAH is dedicated to enhancing water and sanitation facilities in schools by improving existing infrastructure by retrofitting toilet facilities and constructing handwashing structures. Additionally, AKAH designs accessible sanitation facilities to cater to the needs of all students. It also implements rainwater harvesting structures to promote water conservation.
To ensure the sustainability of the improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, AKAH establishes School Management Committees. These committees consist of teachers and students who collaborate to maintain the facilities. AKAH strives to create a supportive environment that fosters proper WASH practices and contributes to the well-being of students and the overall school community.

Two girls take part in a community activity to enhance environmental awareness

ENVIRONMENT CLUBS

Environment education in schools plays a crucial role in instilling a sense of responsibility towards environment conservation. AKAH actively collaborates with school children, aiming to nurture a future generation of passionate champions dedicated to safeguarding the environment. AKAH facilitates the formation of environment clubs, where students are encouraged to actively engage in initiatives that promote the adoption of alternative energy and energy conservation practices. These clubs provide a platform for students to participate in activities such as creating gardens, participating in clean-up campaigns, and receiving orientation about rainwater harvesting systems and alternative energy sources.
By involving students in these hands-on activities, AKAH fosters a deep understanding and connection to environmental issues. The organization aims to empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to become agents of change, promoting sustainable practices and environmental stewardship both within their schools and in their broader communities.

URBAN HABITAT RISK RESILIENCE

Promoting resilient housing and climate-adaptive development

AKAH collaborates with urban communities to safeguard habitats against natural hazards and man-made disasters, as well as mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as heatwaves, sea-level rise, and unpredictable weather patterns. AKAH actively pilots and promotes cost-effective, eco-friendly, and nature-based solutions within the built environment.

These solutions include the implementation of cool roofs, green roofs, solarization, and the establishment of Miyawaki forests. By adopting these practices, AKAH aims to reduce hotspots in cities, creating more comfortable and resilient living spaces. Moreover, these initiatives empower individuals to be better prepared and equipped to respond to the risks they may encounter.

Urban Heat
Island Mitigation

Rapid and dense urbanization has given rise to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. Land-use planning, building densities and surface characteristics contribute to the effects of UHI and increase heat stress. Metal and dark roofs retain and dissipate more heat into the environment.
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Creation of
Mini Forests

As the demand for land grows, deforestation is a growing challenge. Diminishing forest cover presents a threat not only to natural habitats and biodiversity but also exacerbates risk and exposure to natural hazards and reduces a critical resource for climate change mitigation.
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Safe and
Green Construction

AKAH is dedicated to the development of built environment solutions that are low-carbon, energy-efficient, safe, and affordable.
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Energy
Audit

AKAH engages in energy audits conducted in schools to identify opportunities for reducing energy consumption, improving energy efficiency, and lowering energy costs.
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URBAN HEAT ISLAND MITIGATION

Rapid and dense urbanization has given rise to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. Land-use planning, building densities and surface characteristics contribute to the effects of UHI and increase heat stress. Metal and dark roofs retain and dissipate more heat into the environment. Paved surfaces and concrete buildings in cities increase the buildup of heat, further contributing to UHI.
AKAH conducts comprehensive assessments of the impact of UHI through geo-spatial analysis. Leveraging these assessments, AKAH facilitates collaboration between communities and planning authorities to implement nature-based solutions. Moreover, AKAH seeks to adapt and revive traditional technologies to effectively mitigate the impacts of UHI. By bringing together various stakeholders, AKAH works towards creating more resilient and sustainable urban environments that are better equipped to combat the challenges posed by the UHI effect.

CREATION OF MINI FORESTS

As the demand for land grows, deforestation is a growing challenge. Diminishing forest cover presents a threat not only to natural habitats and biodiversity but also exacerbates risk and exposure to natural hazards and reduces a critical resource for climate change mitigation.
AKAH is implementing Miyawaki mini-forest techniques to restore forest cover in urban areas. These afforestation processes involve the use of native plants, resulting in the creation of dense and multi-layered forests. Miyawaki mini forests have demonstrated remarkable growth, developing into mature ecosystems in just 20 years, compared to the natural regeneration process that can take up to 200 years. These mini forests serve as biodiversity oases, supporting up to 20 times the number of species found in non-native managed forests. These efforts contribute to the conservation of natural resources, mitigate the impacts of deforestation, and promote sustainable urban environments.

SAFE AND GREEN CONSTRUCTION

AKAH is dedicated to the development of built environment solutions that are low-carbon, energy-efficient, safe, and affordable. It believes that housing and institutional facilities should prioritize safety, adaptability to the local environment and culture, and employ green building principles to minimize their environmental footprint.
AKAH promotes repairs and retrofitting of existing structures to extend their usable life, enhance safety, and minimize environmental impact. During these repairs and retrofits, AKAH advocates for the adoption of energy-efficient lights, fans, pumps, BEE star rated equipment, and water-efficient plumbing fixtures. In new construction, it prioritizes the use of local, low-carbon materials and technologies, Green Pro-certified building materials such as fly ash blocks, autoclaved aerated concrete blocks, low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) paints, high reflective coatings like cool roofing, and timber that helps reduce carbon emissions. Water conservation is prioritized through the incorporation of on-site rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling systems. Additionally, AKAH integrates Net Grid Roof top technology into housing designs to promote the use of renewable energy.

Energy Audit

AKAH engages in energy audits conducted in schools to identify opportunities for reducing energy consumption, improving energy efficiency, and lowering energy costs. Through these audits, it aims to enhance sustainability and promote responsible energy usage within school facilities. AKAH also collaborates with communities, governments, and planning authorities to advocate for the adoption of net grid rooftop solar solutions.
Through these collaborative efforts, AKAH aims to foster energy efficiency, promote renewable energy adoption, and implement nature-based solutions. By working with various stakeholders, it seeks to create a more sustainable and resilient future for communities.

DISASTER RISK REDUCTION

Building resilient communities that can respond and adapt to risks and changes

As natural disasters and pandemics are becoming an increasing phenomenon, it is critical to help vulnerable communities mitigate risk, adapt to climate change, and be able to recover from shocks to improve their quality of life. Building resilience is a process that involves preparing, responding, and adapting to shocks and changes.

Disaster Preparedness and Response

Climate change has increased the frequency and severity of natural disasters in recent years, making it even more crucial to be prepared.
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Habitat Planning and Improvement

Safe, healthy, and sustainable housing and built environment are vital to a community's physical, social, and economic well-being. They are also critical to a community's resilience to disasters.
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DISASTER Preparedness and Response

Climate change has increased the frequency and severity of natural disasters in the recent years, making it even more crucial to be prepared. AKAH collaborates with communities to raise awareness about Hazard, Vulnerability, and Risk Assessment (HVRA) and equips them with the necessary skills to cope with and recover from disasters. By promoting awareness and education, AKAH plays a crucial role in fostering community resilience. One aspect of this effort involves assisting communities in creating emergency plans, stockpiling essential supplies, and understanding evacuation procedures during emergencies.Furthermore, AKAH mobilizes community members and provides them with training to form Search and Rescue Teams (SART) and Disaster Assessment and Response Teams (DART). By building their capacities, AKAH empowers these teams to effectively respond to emergencies and provide assistance when needed.

DISASTER Preparedness and Response

Climate change has increased the frequency and severity of natural disasters in the recent years, making it even more crucial to be prepared. AKAH collaborates with communities to raise awareness about Hazard, Vulnerability, and Risk Assessment (HVRA) and equips them with the necessary skills to cope with and recover from disasters. By promoting awareness and education, AKAH plays a crucial role in fostering community resilience. One aspect of this effort involves assisting communities in creating emergency plans, stockpiling essential supplies, and understanding evacuation procedures during emergencies.
Furthermore, AKAH mobilizes community members and provides them with training to form Search and Rescue Teams (SART) and Disaster Assessment and Response Teams (DART). By building their capacities, AKAH empowers these teams to effectively respond to emergencies and provide assistance when needed.

Habitat Planning and Improvement

Safe, healthy, and sustainable housing and built environment are vital to a community's physical, social, and economic well-being. They are also critical to a community's resilience to disasters.
Rapid, unplanned urbanization has resulted in severe habitat degradation and loss. As a result, people are more vulnerable to natural disasters, and there are severe consequences for public health, social equity, and economic development. AKAH prioritizes habitat planning and improvement as an important component of community resilience building. A variety of strategies and approaches are used in habitat planning and improvement, including risk-informed, inclusive urban planning, green infrastructure development, and sustainable resource management. These approaches can help reduce environmental dangers, improve public health, enhance social inclusion and equity, and promote economic development.

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