DBT Highlights Biomanufacturing's Role in Tackling Climate Change

The webinar, themed "Adapt Biomanufacturing 2 Address Climate Change," showcased a range of innovations aimed at reducing environmental impact while supporting economic growth.

As climate change continues to put pressure on ecosystems, natural resources and communities, scientists and policymakers are looking at biotechnology as a powerful tool for building a more sustainable future. On the eve of World Environment Day 2026, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) brought together researchers, industry leaders and environmental experts to discuss how biomanufacturing can help address some of the country's most pressing environmental challenges.

The webinar, themed "Adapt Biomanufacturing 2 Address Climate Change," showcased a range of innovations aimed at reducing environmental impact while supporting economic growth. The event was held in line with the global climate action campaign and highlighted how science-driven solutions can contribute to a greener future.

Opening the session, Dr. Sangita M. Kasture, Scientist G and Head of the Biomanufacturing Directorate at DBT, outlined the Department's efforts to strengthen India's biotechnology ecosystem. She highlighted the BioE3 Policy, which promotes advanced biomanufacturing for sustainable fuels, chemicals, biomaterials and other bio-based products that can reduce dependence on conventional resources.

From Carbon Capture to Mangrove Restoration

DBT Secretary Dr Rajesh S. Gokhale pointed to the growing challenges created by excessive material consumption, rising waste generation and climate change. He stressed the need to move scientific innovations beyond laboratories and into large-scale use through Biofoundries and Biomanufacturing Hubs. According to him, stronger partnerships between researchers and industry will be essential for accelerating the adoption of bio-based technologies.

The webinar featured several examples of biotechnology being used to tackle environmental issues. Scientists presented work on converting carbon emissions into useful products and livelihood opportunities through microbial platforms. Researchers also shared progress in restoring mangrove ecosystems in the Sundarbans using indigenous beneficial bacteria that support plant growth. Other presentations focused on the development of sustainable aviation fuel, green transportation fuels made from renewable biological resources, and the use of microbiome science to support environmental sustainability and the bioeconomy.

Experts Call for Action-Oriented Climate Solutions

Environmentalist Dr Anil Prakash Joshi of HESCO, Uttarakhand, delivered the keynote address, focusing on the conservation of fragile Himalayan ecosystems. He emphasised the importance of community participation, sustainable resource management and climate-resilient development. He also highlighted the need to assess the environmental footprint of technological solutions and called for integrated approaches that combine biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration and climate adaptation.

Experts from industry shared practical examples of climate-focused technologies moving toward commercial deployment. These included algae-based systems that convert carbon into economic opportunities while reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers, along with technologies that transform carbon dioxide generated during biomethanation into valuable products. A representative from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change highlighted the Mission LiFE initiative and urged people to move beyond awareness toward concrete action in protecting natural resources.

Researchers and experts from institutions including IISc Bengaluru, ICGEB New Delhi, IIT-ISM Dhanbad, IISER Kolkata, IISER Thiruvananthapuram, ATREE Bengaluru and NCBS Bengaluru participated in the programme. More than 100 institutions joined the webinar, reflecting growing interest in climate-focused biotechnology solutions. The event concluded with an interactive discussion session, where participants explored the opportunities and challenges involved in scaling biomanufacturing technologies across the country. The conversations underscored a common message: biotechnology is emerging as an important partner in India's efforts to combat climate change while supporting sustainable development.