NMHS Him-CONNECT 2026

Theme 02: Waste-to-Wealth

The Waste-to-Wealth theme under the Him-CONNECT initiative highlighted innovative approaches to convert waste materials into valuable and sustainable resources. Researchers and scientists from leading Himalayan institutions presented cutting-edge technologies that promote circular economy practices, reduce environmental pollution, and support sustainable livelihoods across the Himalayan region.

The following research presentations showcased how waste materials such as plastics, wastewater, sericulture waste, and food waste can be transformed into useful products and technologies that contribute to environmental sustainability and economic development.

1. Up-cycling Waste Plastic into Carbon Nano-materials – Dr. N. G. Sahoo, Kumaon University, Nainital, Uttarakhand
2. Use of Treated Wastewater for Vegetable Cultivation through Hydroponics – Dr. Lalit Giri, G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (NIHE), Almora, Uttarakhand
3. Sericulture Waste into Burn Ointments – Dr. Syed Mudasir Ahmad Andrabi, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, J&K
4. Transforming Food Waste – Dr. Aparna Maitra Pati, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Palampur, Himachal Pradesh

These valuable contributions were made possible through the participation of several prestigious institutions including Kumaon University (Nainital), G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (Almora), Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, and CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (Palampur). Their research efforts play an important role in promoting sustainable waste management and innovation in the Himalayan region.

The Him-CONNECT initiative, organized under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India and facilitated by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) during WSDS 2026, aims to connect Himalayan innovations with start-ups and industry, bridging the gap between scientific research and market-ready solutions.