The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Lucknow Cantonment Board to serve as the knowledge partner in their joint mission to achieve a waste-free and carbon-neutral campus, aiming to create a scalable model in line with India’s vision of achieving net zero emissions by 2070.

The MOU was signed by Col. Mayank Sundriyal, Commander Works Engineer (CWE), Lucknow and Prof. Tarun Gupta, Dean of Research and Development at IIT Kanpur, in the presence of Brig. Sanjeev Kumar (CELZ), Maj. Ankit Kumar (GE E/M), Shri. Ajitesh Pandey GEP(P), Prof. J.G.Rao, Associate Dean, R&D, IITK; along with Prof. Debopam Das, Prof. Rajeev Jindal, and Prof. Aakash C. Rai from the Departemt of Sustainable Energy Engineering, Chandrakanta Kesavan Centre for Energy Policy and Climate Solutions, and Kotak School of Sustainability at IIT Kanpur. Representing as a knowledge partner, IIT Kanpur will support research projects, seminars, and educational initiatives while also adopting eco-friendly practices, cutting carbon emissions, and pursuing renewable energy options.

Prof. S. Ganesh, Director, IIT Kanpur, said, “As an academic institute continuously thriving for excellence, IIT Kanpur is at the forefront of pioneering innovative and sustainable solutions to tackle climate change. The recently established Kotak School of Sustainability at the institute is a significant step towards this vision. This partnership with the Lucknow Cantonment Board marks another step towards pursuing net-zero goals and carbon neutrality, which is not merely a conscientious choice but a strategic necessity. Through coordinated initiatives, we are confident that this will significantly propel us towards our shared objective.”

On signing the MoU, Prof. Tarun Gupta, Dean, of Research and Development, IIT Kanpur, said, “The collaboration between IIT Kanpur and Lucknow Cantonment Board supports global efforts to fight climate change, aligning our growth trajectory with the dedication to create a stable, sustainable future.”

Col. Mayank Sundriyal, Commander Works Engineer (CWE), Lucknow, said, “The MoU reflects the progressive vision of the Lucknow Cantonment Board, showcasing its commitment to adopting innovative solutions for sustainable future. Collaborating with IIT Kanpur and leveraging its academic expertise will pave the way for transformative initiatives.”

Prof. Rajeev Jindal from the Department of Sustainable Energy Engineering, Chandrakanta Kesavan Centre for Energy Policy and Climate Solutions, and Kotak School of Sustainability at IIT Kanpur, said, “IIT Kanpur’s proactive stance positions the institute as a leader in sustainable development, fostering a culture of innovation and responsibility among its academic community and beyond.”

IIT Kanpur and Lucknow Cantonment Board together intend to set an example for equivalent institutions by efficiently implementing waste reduction and carbon neutrality projects. They aim to support global campaigns addressing climate change. With its emphasis and domain knowledge on sustainability, IIT Kanpur will play a pivotal role in formulating strategies to offset and reduce carbon footprints.