NEERI Launches ‘Sustainovate 2025’: AI Challenge to Tackle India’s Environmental Crisis

Nagpur

The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI) has launched ‘Sustainovate 2025’, an open innovation CSR-supported challenge calling on AI innovators to solve India’s worsening environmental problems.

Targeting startups, NGOs, students, and MSMEs, the challenge spans 10 thematic areas:

• Air and water pollution
• Urban waste management
• Climate resilience
• Clean energy access
• Green mobility and eco-monitoring

Participants will receive mentorship, technical guidance, and potential CSR funding. Applications are open until June 30, and shortlisted ideas will be developed in partnership with NEERI labs across India.

“Sustainovate 2025 is about creating real-world impact at the intersection of environment, AI, and responsibility,” said a NEERI spokesperson.

The initiative aligns with India’s growing focus on tech-enabled sustainable development and offers corporates an opportunity to back grassroots innovation with national-level reach.

🌍 But will these innovations see the light of real-world deployment – or get lost in bureaucratic filters and grant formalities?