Sharmila Vaidyanathan

Climate-induced changes in the yield and nutritional quality of various foods could tip the balance of gut microbiota towards strains associated with malnutrition

Bengaluru-based Black Baza Coffee Co won a prestigious award for its biodiversity-friendly brews. Its founder Arshiya Bose speaks to Lounge about how coffee can benefit farms

Harvesting difficulties, labour and even climate effects alongside inadequate institutional support are making it difficult to grow sorghum commercially.

A new study computes the ability of mangroves in Pichavaram and Muthupet in Tamil Nadu, to mitigate coastal exposure to environmental hazards such as storms, cyclones and floods.

From difficulties in processing crops after harvest to changing rainfall patterns and lack of policy and institutional support, millet farmers face significant challenges.

If you thought that household food waste is the most significant contributor to wastage in the food system, it isn’t so. Journalist Sharmila Vaidyanathan reveals how food is lost during every stage of its production and distribution, how preventable these losses are, and the gaps in the system.

Studies have highlighted the abundance of wild edible greens along organic paddy fields which have long supported the nutritional and medicinal needs of indigenous communities.

Map the Wild is an engaging board game that teaches players about edible and medicinal plants found in urban areas.

In Tamil Nadu, women begin their day by drawing a kōlam first thing in the morning outside their doorstep as a daily ritual. But at the intersection of the art form and the aesthetics lies a subtle message to preserve the Earth and be mindful of the beings we share space with.

A recent study has highlighted invasive plant species’ positive and negative impacts on human wellbeing. The impacts of invasive plants on human well-being are particularly relevant for rural and marginalised communities that depend on natural resources for survival.

"Cultures for Climate," a print and magazine initiative dedicated to documenting the rich cultural heritage and adaptive strategies of communities across India as they navigate the challenges posed by climate change.

A review of the book, The Rain Harvesters by Sylvia Sikundar & Stephen Aitken for the Nature Writing for Children (Azim Premji University) newsletter.

Can this flavourful staple of the Indian kitchen survive the onslaught of changing agricultural practices and climate–and what does this mean for its habitat’s biodiversity?

Researchers have identified a feedback loop between drought, soil desiccation and carbon dioxide emissions that can accelerate climate change effects.

When we conceptualised this newsletter, we wanted it to amplify the voice and work of someone who has documented and thoughtfully examined the water crisis in the city and the country. Sharmila, despite her busy schedule, worked with us over a few weeks to ideate, curate, and create a wonderful piece which you can read through the link below.