Centre for Achieving Sustainable Climate Action, Development and Engagement (CASCADE)

Aiming beyond change, becoming a cascade of impact

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Somaiya Vidyavihar University launched CASCADE in 2019, driven by not one, but two profound goals: igniting research innovation and extending a helping hand to empower local Communities. Institutionalized within the Somaiya Institute for Research and Consultancy, CASCADE draws strength from the rich legacy of the Somaiya Family, who have long been champions of inclusivity, a healthier society, and a visionary commitment to making the world a better place.

CASCADE champions a multi-disciplinary, cross-cultural, human-centric, and systems-thinking approach to tackle some of the grand sustainability challenges associated with food, water, energy, carbon, and climate. We focus on three areas: Research & Innovation; Capacity & Infrastructure Development; and Communication & outreach which embody the very essence of our name.

CASCADE will bridge educational and research campuses with the industrial powerhouse, Godavari Biorefineries Ltd, within the Somaiya ecosystem. Together, we aim to create transformative opportunities for learning, research, and outreach across a spectrum that includes agriculture, forestry, wildlife conservation, textiles, and art and culture.

Know more about us

Our Agenda

Where dreams cascade into reality

Vision

To evolve as a global centre of for sustainable development and climate action.

Mission

To holistically leverage science and technology, understanding of human needs, and the catalytic power of education to generate innovative solutions to global, regional, and local sustainability challenges.

Approach

To engage a diverse set of national and global stakeholders in a holistic dialogue on the challenges and opportunities to address the social, economic, and ecological dimensions of climate change. Followed by the development of a call for action that is embraced by thought leaders, and stakeholders.

Our Innovation space

  • Climate and environment
  • Resource Security
  • Technology and Innovation
  • Green Processes and Management
  • Policy and approaches

Co-directors

Catalyzing Cascade through disruptive ecology

Dr. Parvathi JR

Assistant Director
Somaiya Institute for Research and Consultancy

Dr. Larry Walker

Adjunct Professor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University Adjunct Professor, Michigan State University