About the Department
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University initiated the Environmental Biology programme during 1975 as an interdisciplinary course leading to M.Sc. and Ph.D degrees under the Department of Biology. A separate Department of Environmental Sciences was created during 1990 and this department offers post graduate and doctoral programmes in Environmental Sciences. The Department of Environmental Sciences is interdisciplinary in nature wherein Scientists from the disciplines of Environmental Sciences, Agricultural Microbiology and Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry are working as a team to handle courses and research programmes related to current environmental issues.
HoD’s Desk
Warm Greetings.
It is my pleasure and pride to lead the Department of Environmental Sciences as part of esteemed & prestigious University. Department of Environmental Sciences is recognized by the State and National level for its remarkable achievements in education, research and services. It imparts quality education and current research knowledge to students and research scholars. They have been trained to thrive over various situations and gaining self-confidence to glorify their future endeavors. Besides, these core activities, we are having research collaborations with various stakeholders like ISRO, DBT, DST, State Government Departments and other governments and non-governmental agencies, Industries and International Bodies. Our department consists of five major research teams and mainly focusing the Bioremediation of polluted environments, Wastewater treatment and recycling, Air pollution monitoring and mitigation, Integrated solid waste management and Agro ecology and ecosystem services. Regarding the laboratory facilities, we are equipped with sophisticatedInstrumentsviz., GC-MS, Graphite and Flame AAS, Microwave digestion unit, automatic N analyzer and titration unit, UV-Visible spectrophotometer besides other basic instruments. We are having analytical laboratory, fermentation laboratory, bioremediation laboratory, heavy and organic pollutant analytical laboratory, biodiversity laboratory, solid waste management unit and environmental observatories for doing various research activities and analytical services. Our department is regularly organizing state, national, international seminars, conferences, workshopsand training. We have organized International conference on CleanUp India, 2016 and Global CleanUp Congress, India, 2018 in collaboration with CRC-CARE, Australia and the University of Newcastle. Also organized an international network workshop on “Balancing Climate, Biodiversity and Food Security” during 2019 in collaboration with Queens University, Belfast, UK.
Department of Environmental Sciencesis focusing to create meritorious and vibrant professional graduates endure to play a leading role in sustainable environmental solutions to maintain sustainable world for future. I extend my warm wishes to all.
Mandate
- To offer structured degree programmes in Environmental Sciences.
- To develop technologies to mitigate environmental problems for sustainable agriculture
- To assess the possibility of recycling solid and liquid wastes for agricultural applications.
- To develop scientific man power for assessing the environmental problems and to develop suitable remedies.
- To provide periodical training on agro – waste recycling and techniques of organic farming.
- To provide analytical and advisory services.
- To develop strategies for conservation and restoration of biodiversity and the healthy resilience of natural ecosystem.
Vision
- Development of Bioremediation technologies for pollution abatement
- Establishment of centre for culture collection for environmentally important microorganisms.
- Establishment of National Environmental Referral Laboratory
- Creation of Data base on Environmental Pollution and mitigation strategies pertaining to the State of Tamil Nadu.
Overall Goal
- To develop a strong academic programme and to impart education to the Masters and Doctoral Programmes in Environmental Science.
- Integrated bioremediation approaches for remediation of polluted environment
- Utilization of waste water in crop production as a source of nutrients, organic matters and irrigation source
- Inventory of Green house gases , trace gases and climate change mitigation strategies through carbon sequestration in agroecosystem
Education
Postgraduate
- M.Sc. programme in Environmental Sciences is offered from 1975 and Ph.D. programme is offered from 1990.
List of Courses
Masters – M.Sc. (Ag.) Environmental Science
| CODE | TITLE | CREDIT |
| ENS 501 | Principles of Environmental Sciences | 2+1 |
| ENS 502 | Analytical and Instrumentation Tech in Environmental Sciences | 1+1 |
| ENS 503 | Soil, Water and Air Pollution | 2+1 |
| ENS 504 | Solid Waste Management | 1+1 |
| ENS 505 | Waste Water Management | 1+1 |
| ENS 506 | Environmental Biotechnology | 1+1 |
| ENS 507 | Biodiversity and Conservation | 1+1 |
| ENS 508 | Climate Change and its impact on Environment | 1+1 |
| ENS 509 | Environmental Education, Legislation and Issues | 1+1 |
| ENS 510 | Energy and Environment | 1+1 |
| ENS 511 | Anaerobic System and Biogas Production | 1+1 |
| ENS 512 | Principles of Environmental Impact Assessment | 1+1 |
Doctorate – Ph.D. Environmental Science
| CODE | TITLE | CREDIT |
| ENS 601 | Bioremediation of Polluted Habitats | 2+1 |
| ENS 602 | Environmental Biotechnology | 2+1 |
| ENS 603 | Industrial Wastes – Impacts on Agro ecosystem | 1+1 |
| ENS 604 | Pollution Monitoring and Control | 2+1 |
| ENS 605 | Advanced Environmental Impact Analysis and Assessment | 1+1 |
| ENS 606 | Green Technologies and Environmental Protection | 1+1 |
| ENS 607 | Anaerobic System and Anaerobic Treatment of Wastes | 1+1 |
| ENS 608 | Advanced Process and Kinetics of Waste Water Treatment | 2+1 |
| ENS 609 | Recycling of Wastes | 2+1 |
| ENS 610 | Environmental Regulations, Laws and Acts | 1+0 |
Undergraduate
Offering courses for B.Sc.(Agriculture), B. Sc. (Sericulture) and B.Tech. viz., Food process engineering, Biotechnology, Horticulture, Energy and Environmental Engineering and Agricultural Information Technology on various environmental issues. The following are the Courses.
| S.No. | Degree Programme | Course No. | Course Title | Credit hours | Semester |
| 1. | B.Sc(Hons.)Agri | ENS 201 | Environmental Studies and Disaster Management | 2+1 | ODD |
| 2. | B.Sc(Hons.)Agri | ENS 301 | Environmental Pollution and management | 1+1 | EVEN |
| 3. | B.Sc(Hons.)Agri | EXP 401 | Experiential learning | 0+5 | EVEN |
| 4. | B.Sc(Hons.)Agri | TAU 416 | Project work | 0+4 | EVEN |
| 5. | B.Sc(Hons.)Horti | ENS 201 | Environmental Studies and Disaster Management | 2+1 | ODD |
| 6. | B.Tech (FoT) | ENS 101 | Environmental Sciences and Disaster Management | 2+1 | EVEN |
| 7. | B.Tech (FoT) | ENS 323 | Environmental Management in food industries | 1+0 | EVEN |
| 8. | B.Tech (EEE) | ENS 101 | Environmental Sciences and Disaster Management | 2+1 | EVEN |
| 9. | B.Tech (EEE) | ENS 312 | Environmental Chemistry | 2+1 | EVEN |
| 11. | B.Tech (Biotech) | ENS 101 | Environmental Studies and Disaster Management | 2+1 | ODD |
| 12. | B.Tech (Biotech) | ENS 311 | Biodiversity and its conservation | 1+1 | ODD |
| 13. | B.Tech(Bio info) | ENS 101 | Environmental Studies and Disaster Management | 2+1 | ODD |
| 14. | B.S (ABM) | ENS 101 | Environmental Studies and Disaster Management | 2+1 | ODD |
| 15. | B.Tech(AIT) | ENS 101 | Environmental Studies and Disaster Management | 2+1 | ODD |
| 16. | B.Tech(AIT) | ENS 301 | Environmental Pollution and management | 1+1 | EVEN |
List of Courses
RESEARCH
Research focus
- Technology Development for the bioconversion of urban, industrial and agricultural wastes
- Recycling and reuse of industrial waste water for agriculture
- Biomethanation of organic wastes for energy production
- Development of bioremediation technologies for industrial and hazardous waste contaminated ecosystems
- Effect of industrial waste water disposal on agricultural land degradation, loss of fertility and impact on groundwater contamination
- Studies on Carbon Sequestration and Carbon trading
Research collaboration with national and international organizations/ industries
- The Scientists have successfully operated many research projects funded by National (20 Nos.), International (3 Nos.) and Private Organizations (20 Nos.). The faculty has been trained in different International Universities viz., Massey University, New Zealand, University of Adelaide, Australia, University of South Australia, University of Coahuila, Mexico, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
- The faculties have been recognized with International fellowships like Australian Endeavour Award Ambassador, Endeavour AIEC Research Fellow, ACIAR John All wright Fellow from different countries. Faculties are also trained in international institutes of South Australia, USA, New Zealand, Canada under ICAR 50 Crore HRD Phase II program. Faculties have obtained funds from various National and International funding agencies like MoEF&CC, DST, DBT, UGC, ISRO, CPCB, TNCST, CSIRO – Australia, Grow Green – Australia, Park Project – Singapore. Faculties have got funds from various industries such as Tamil Nadu News Print and Paper Limited, ITC paper borad, Shesasayee paper and boards, Bannariamman Sugars, Sakthi Sugars, Amaravathy Sugars, Dharani Sugars, EID Parry Sugars, Salem Co-Operative sugars, Bhavani Distillery, Rajashree sugars, United Breweries, Cadbury India Limited, Coffee board and rubber board
- The faculties were also obtained various medals and awards viz., Commonwealth award, Australian Endeavour Award Ambassador, Endeavour AIEC Research Fellow, ACIAR John All wright Fellow, Tamil Nadu State Environment award, Crop research award, Best researcher award, Outstanding women researcher award, Young scientist award, Pearl Education award, Best paper and poster presentation awards etc., in recognition of their contribution towards teaching and research.
TECHNOLOGIES DEVELOPED
- In collaboration with ACIAR – Australia a joint research project was conducted to assess the impact of tannery effluent contaminated soils in Vellore, Dindugal and Erode districts. Also recommended suitable agricultural, tree and horticultural crop varieties and different soil amendments and technologies were recommended to reduce the chromium toxicity.
- In Vellore district, a baseline survey was conducted to assess the level of pollution, based on the survey number of the sites, water and soil samples were collected from sites contaminated heavily by tannery effluent and analyzed for pollution level. Based on the results of analysis, compensations were given to the land owners through Loss of Ecology Authority.
- Survey was conducted in Tirupur, Erode, Karur and Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu to assess the impact of dye and textile industrial effluent contamination in soil and water and for pollution abatement techniques were recommended.
- Developed technologies for bio-composting of different organic and industrial wastes.
- Developed integrated management technologies for reclamation of salt affected soils.
- Standardized the bio and phytoremediation techniques for removal of pollutants from soil and water and optimized the process parameters for the chromium contaminated sites.
- Suitable crops and varieties were identified for land application of paper mill effluent and distillery effluent.
- Techniques were developed for composting and nutrient preservation of poultry wastes.
- High conversion rate anaerobic reactors were developed for using the sago and rubber factory effluents as substrates for biomethanation.
- Standardized the method of production of enriched vermicomposting with bio-inoculants.
- Developed technologies for reclamation of alkaline soils using amendments like gypsum, phosphogypsum, compost, green manure, iron pyrites, elemental sulphur, pressmud and poultry manure.
- Standardized technique to utilize spentwash as liquid manure, for crops (sugarcane, groundnut, maize, sorghum and forage crops).
RESEARCH PROJECTS
UNIVERSITY SUB PROJECTS
Ongoing Projects
| S.No. | Project No. & Title | Project Leader (s) | Duration
|
|
| From | To | |||
| 01 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2017/001
Assessing the bioavailability, bioaccumulation and bioremediation of mercury in the contaminated soils and plants at Kodaikanal |
Dr. S. Avudainayagam,
Professor & Dr. V. Davamani. Assistant Professor |
Jan., 2017- | Jan., 2020 |
| 02 | NRM/CBE/ENS/REM/2017/002
Sustainable management of textile and tannery effluent contaminated soils using castor priming with AM fungi |
Dr. P. Kalaiselvi Assistant Professor
& Dr. M. K. Kalarani, Professor(CRP)
|
April 2017 | April 2019
Extended Upto October 2019 |
| 03 | NRM/CBE/ENS/BHM/2017/001 Studies on Bio accessible Heavy Metal From Raw and Cooked Rice | Dr. P. Dhevagi
Associate Professor
|
March 2018 | June 2019 |
| 04 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2018/001
Developing a low cost biosorbent for heavy metal removal from polluted water |
Dr. P. Dhevagi
Associate Professor
|
Jan., 2018 | Dec., 2019 |
| 05 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2018/002
Fate and transport of pesticide residues in soil and water of predominant vegetable growing village of Ottanchathiram |
Dr. R. Jayasree
Assistant Professor |
June 2018 | May 2020 |
| 06 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2018/003
Natural Adsorbents to remove mercury from waste water in Coimbatore District |
Dr. R. Sunitha
Assistant Professor |
June 2018 | May 2020 |
| 07 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2018/004
Sustainable biogas production from sewage through bioaugmentation |
Dr. M. Maheswari, Professor | Sep., 2018 | Aug., 2020 |
| 08 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2019/001
Screening trees for Bio-silencing of Noise |
Dr. M. P. Sugumaran,
Associate Professor |
June 2019 | May 2021 |
| 09 | NRM/CBE/ENS/BGR/2019/001
Impact of tropospheric ozone on Blackgram |
Dr. P. Dhevagi,
Associate Professor |
Oct., 2019 | Sep., 2021 |
| 10 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2019/002
Rhizofiltration of micropollutants using vetiver |
Dr. K. Sara Parwin Banu,
Professor |
Oct., 2019 | Oct., 2021 |
| 11 | NRM/CBE/ENS/VEG/2019/001
Influence of “N” inhibitors on nitrous oxide emission under intensive tomato cultivation system |
Dr. V. Davamani,
Assistant Professor |
Sep., 2019 | Aug., 2020 |
Venture capital Schemes
| S.No. | Project No. & Title | Project Leader (s) | Period | |
| From | To | |||
| 01 | V 60 HG Production of organic manures from the biodegradable wastes | Dr. P. Kalaiselvi,
Assistant Professor& Dr. M. P. Sugumaran Associate Professor |
April, 2019 | March, 2020 |
| 02 | V60AS Strengthening of Analytical and Advisory Unit | Dr. M. Maheswari, Professor &
Professor and Head (ENS) |
April, 2018 | March, 2019 |
Completed Projects
| No | Project No. &
Title of the Project |
Project Leader (s) | Period | |
| From | To | |||
| 01 | NRM/CBE/ENS/14/001
Remediating dye and textile effluent contaminated soil through plant microbes interaction |
Dr. R. Jayashree
& Dr. P. Kalaiselvi |
Dec., 2014 | Nov., 2016 |
| 02 | NRM/CBE/ENS/14/002
Assessing the climate change impact on greenhouse gases emission in rice ecosystem of Tamil Nadu |
Dr. K. Boomiraj | Oct., 2014 | Sep., 2016 |
| 03 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2015/004
Establishing green corridor along the coastline of Cuddalore district for ecological preservation |
Dr. M. P. Sugumaran | June 2015 | May 2018 |
| 04 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2015/003
Evaluating the phytoremediation potential of aquatic plants in reed bed system for recycling of sewage water in agriculture |
Dr. K. Suganya | June 2015 | May 2017 |
| 05 | NRM/CBE/ENS/SUG/2015/002
Formulation of organic manure flakes from pressmud and yeast sludge |
Dr. P.T. Ramesh | July 2015 | June 2017 |
| 06 | NRM/CBE/ENS/SUG/2015/001
In-situ management of sugarcane trashes to enrich soil available nutrients for sustainability |
Dr. J. Kannan | June 2015 | May 2017 |
| 07 | NRM/MDU/ENS/2014/001
Assessment of heavy metal contamination in periyar main canal of Madurai District |
Dr. G. Balasubramanian | Oct., 2014 | Sep., 2017 |
| 08 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2017/001
Assessing the bioavailability, bioaccumulation and bioremediation of mercury in the contaminated soils and plants at Kodaikanal |
Dr. S. Avudainayagam,
Dr. V. Davamani,
|
January 2017 | December 2020 |
| 09 | NRM/CBE/ENS/2014/002
Extraction of phosphorus (P) from municipal sewage sludge and developing commercial product for crop production – A feasibility study |
Dr. S. Paul Sebastian | Oct., 2014
|
Sep., 2016 |
EXTERNALLY FUNDED PROJECTS
Ongoing Projects
| S.No. | Project No. &Title of the Project | Funding Agency | Duration | Budget (Rs. in Lakhs) | Project Leaders |
| 1. | ITC/NRM/CBE/ENS/2014/R003
Effective utilization of treated effluent water and sludge generated from ITC factory |
ITC Ltd, Karamadi | 2014-2020 | 40.18 | Prof. & Head, Dept. of Environmental Sciences & Dr. G. Balasubramanian |
| 2. | TNPL/NRM/CBE/ENS/2015/R008
Evaluation of long term effect of utilization of TNPL effluent water for irrigation and remediation of effluent irrigated soil habitat |
TNPL, Karur | 2015-2018 | 69.00 | Prof. & Head, Dept. of Environmental Sciences &
Dr. P. Thangavel |
| 3. | DST/HCRI/PKM/ENS/2016/R004
Assessment on the utility of water hyacinth (Eichhorniacrassipes) biomass as potential bio-sorbent for sequestration of heavy metals from tannery effluent and desorption of chromium from bio-sorbent for effective reuse |
DST-SERB-GOI | 2016-2019 | 17.12 | Dr. E. Parameswari,
Dr. S. Avudainayagam Dr. V. Davamani |
| 4. | SPBL/NRM/CBE/ENS/2014/R005
Ecofriendly utilization of Seshasayee paper mill effluent and solid wastes and monitoring its impact on soil and groundwater |
Seshasayee paper & Board Limited | 2017- 2018 | 4.92 | Professor and Head(ENS) &
Dr. V. Davamani
|
| 5. | DST/NRM/ALR/ENS/2017/R005
Preparation and development of adsorbent carbon and nano cellulose fibrils from Cocosnuciferaand its potential application in wastewater treatment system |
SERC-DST | 2017 – 2020 | 11.50 | Dr. R. M. Jayabalakrishnan, Asst. Professor (ENS), CRS, Aliyar.
|
| 6. | ISRO/NRM/KKM/ENS/2012/D001
GOI-ISRO-GBP-ARFI project on “Assessing the Aerosol Radiative Forcing over India” (ARFI) |
ISRO – ARFI
|
2008 – March 2021 | 7.60 | Professor and Head, Dept of ENS
Dr. R. M. Jayabalakrishnan Dr. K. Boomiraj, Asst. Prof. (ENS) AC&RI, Kudumiyanmalai Professor and Head, HRS, TNAU, Ooty |
| 7. | ISRO/NRM/KKM/ENS/2014/D002
Establishment and Maintenance of Environmental Observatory at Wood House, HRS, Ooty for Atmospheric Trace gases Chemistry Transport Modeling (ATCTM) |
ISRO- ATCTM
|
2008 – March 2019 | 32.80 | Professor and Head, Dept. of Env.Sciences,
Dr. R. M. Jayabalakrishnan Asst. Prof. (ENS) Dr. P. Dhevagi, Asso. Professor (ENS), Associate Professor/ Professor and Head, HRS, TNAU, Ooty. |
| 8. | DST/NRM/CBE/ENS/2018/R011
Assessment on the potential of oil palm (Elaeisguineensis) plantations for carbon sequestration in different regions of Tamil Nadu |
DST-SERB
|
April 2018- March 2021
|
23.20 | Dr. V. Davamani
Asst. Professor(ENS) Dr. E. Parameswari Asst. Professor(ENS) Dr. M. Velmurugan, Asst. Professor(Hort) |
Completed Projects
| S.No. | Project No. &Title of the Project | Funding Agency | Duration | Project Leaders |
| 1. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 11 /S.04
Bio-Processing of Gelatin Industry Solid Waste for Value Added Organic Manure Production |
M/s. Pioneer gellies | June 2011 – May 2013 | Dr. P. Doraisamy,
|
| 2. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 07 /S.04
Eco-friendly utilization of Seshayee paper mill effluent and solid wastes and monitoring its impact on soil and groundwater |
M/s. Seshasayaee | April 2007 – March 2014 | Dr. P. Subramanian |
| 3. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 10 /S.04
Bioremediation of contaminated soils in different agro-ecological zones of Tamil Nadu |
GoI-DST | June 2010 – May 2013 | Dr. S. Mahimairaja
|
| 4. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 11 /S.06
Integrated remediation for improving and managing polluted soils and waters in Tirupur, Coimbatore, Erode, and Karur Districts |
TN Government | Oct., 2011- Dec., 2013 | Dr. S. Mahimairaja |
| 5. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 11 /S.07
Studies on Ecomonitoring of the Land Application of Biomethanated Distillery Spentwash on Crop Production, Soil Health & Sustainable Environment” |
M/s. Bannari Amman sugars | Oct., 2011- Sept., 2014 | Dr. P. Thangavel
|
| 6. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 11 /S.08
Eco-monitoring the land application of Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) water of Floral Extraction Industry on Soil, Crop and Water |
M/s. Synthate | Oct., 2011- Sept., 2013 | Dr. K. Valliappan, |
| 7. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 12 /S.01
Standardization and value addition of IWMUST –Municipal Solid Waste Compost for its quality and effect on soil and crops |
M/s. IWMUST | April 2012 – March 2015 | Dr. K. Valliappan
|
| 8. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 11 /S.09
Strategic Environmental Assessment of Cocoa Cultivation in Tamil Nadu |
M/s. Cadbury | Nov., 2011 – Oct., 2016 | Dr. M. Maheswari,
|
| 9. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 10 /S.02
Ecomonitoring on land application of treated tannery effluent with domestic wastewater for soil health and ground water quality |
M/s. CETP, Dindugal | Feb., 2010 – Dec., 2013 | Dr. G. Balasubramanian
|
| 10. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 11 /S.01
Bioprospecting Marine Actinomycetes for Therapeutic Enzymes |
UGC | Feb., 2011- Jan., 2014 | Dr. P. Dhevagi
|
| 11. | NRM / CBE / ENS / 12 /S.02
Surface modification of nano Zero-Valent Iron (nZVI) for improved reactivity and performance against ground water contaminants |
UGC | July 2012 – June 2015 | Dr. M. Prasanthrajan |
| 12. | NRM / CBE /ENS /11 /S.02
Characterization of Wetland Ecosystem of Coimbatore District and Developing Management Strategies for sustainable soil health |
UGC |
Feb., 2011- Jan., 2014 | Dr. A. Bharani |
| 13. | TNPL/NRM/CBE/ENS/2015/R008
Evaluation of long term effect of utilization of TNPL effluent water for irrigation and remediation of effluent irrigated soil habitat |
M/s. TNPL | Apr., 2015 – Mar., 2018 | Dr. S. Avudainayagam & Dr. S. Paul Sebastian |
| 14. | SPBL/NRM/CBE/ENS/2014/R005
Ecofriendly utilization of Seshasayee paper mill effluent and solid wastes and monitoring its impact on soil and groundwater |
M/s. SPBL | Apr., 2014 – Mar., 2015 | Dr.S. Avudainayagam
|
| 15. | NRM/CBE/ENS/14 S.02
Evaluation of distillery wastewater for agriculture and its impact on environment |
M/s. Amaravaty | Apr., 2014 – Mar., 2017 | Dr. M. P. Sugumaran |
| 16. | BASM/NRM/CBE/ENS/2014/R006
Studies on ecomonitoring of the land application of biomethanated distillery spentwash on quality of water, soil health, yield and produce quality of crops and sustainable environment |
M/s. Bannari Amman sugars | Oct., 2014 – Sept., 2017 | Dr. R. Jayashree
& Dr. P. Kalaiselvi
|
| 17. | SD/NRM/CBE/ENS/2014/R007
Assessing the long term impact of distillery effluent application on soil and crop and evaluation of alternative use of distillery effluent for crop production |
M/s. Sakthi Sugars | Sep., 2014 – Aug., 2018 | Dr. P. Dhevagi &
Dr. K. Suganya,
|
Extension services
- Analytical Advisory Services
Environmental analysis has become an important component of Environmental management. Due to unrestrained release of industrial wastes, the soil and water eco-systems have become sinks of many of the pollutants including toxic heavy metals. Having realized the problem of pollution, many of the farmers are very much interested to know the quality of terms of nutrients and presence of toxic metals that may affect the soil and plant eco-systems. In addition, the imposition of stringent rules and regulation by both central and state governments, many of the industries are forced to take up measures to the eco-systems. The quality of compost produced by farmers as well as private entrepreneurs also requires analysis of constituents of the samples. The presence and level of growth hormones in organic liquid formulation are also analyzed on cost basis at the analytical unit functioning in the Department of Environmental Sciences.
- TNAU Biomineralizer Production
TNAU Biomineralizer consortium contains groups of microorganisms for the decomposition of complex organic biodegradable wastes, which accelerate the composting process. For one ton of crop wastes 2 kg of TNAU Biomineralizer is recommended. This two kg Biomineralizer should be mixed with 20 liters of water and made slurry. When the compost heap is formed in between layers the slurry should be inoculated, so that it mixes with the waste material thoroughly for uniform coating of microorganism on the waste material. The application of TNAU Biomineralizer consortium will reduce the period of composting and facilitates the quick decomposition of the organic biodegradable wastes into nutrient rich compost.
- Panchakavya production
Panchagavya is an important component of organic farming. The contents are ghee, milk, curd, cow dung and cow’s urine, sugarcane juice or jaggery, tender coconut water, ripped banana which revitalize the growth processes. Panchagavya acts as organic manure, biostimulant and gives resistance against pest and diseases. It contains all macronutrients, micronutrients and growth hormones (IAA and GA) required for crop growth. Panchagavya contains the beneficial microbes such as yeast and Lactobacillus which produces antibiotics which are effective against pathogenic bacteria and fungi besides its growth promoting effect. Generally panchagavya is recommended for all the crops as foliar spray at 3% level (3litre Panchagavya in 100 litres of water).
In the Department of Environmental Sciences, the technology for the production of Panchangavya has been standardized and commercialized. The technology also sold to a private entrepreneur for commercialization. Benefits of panchagavya in increasing growth yield and quality of the produce was proved through various trials. Research conducted at various Colleges and Research Stations of TNAU were compiled and printed for distribution to the farmers. Trainings are organized for the farmers and SHGs on the production technology of panchagavya.
- Industrial Tie up
Department of Environmental Sciences have widespread industrial linkages through which many research programmes are undertaken and students are enlightened with the knowledge about the waste treatment and utilization in specific industries. The following are the list of industries.
- Tamil Nadu News Print Limited, Pugalur
- Seshashayee Paper Boards, Erode
- ITC, Karamadai
- Mondelez India Limited, Dharapuram
- Bannari Amman Sugars, Sathyamangalam
- Sakthi Sugars, Aappakkoodal
- IWMUST, Chennai
- Amaravathi Coop sugars, Udumalaipet.
Services available
- Analytical and advisory services to the farmers, entrepreneurs and industries for assessing the quality of water, wastewater, soil and compost samples on payment basis.
- Providing vermicomposting training to farmers and entrepreneurs on charge basis.
- Development and sales of quality Panchagavya.
- Development and sales of biomineralizer for composting solid waste and other biodegradable wastes.
- Offering technical consultancy to industries.
- Addressing farmers’ queries regarding composting and vermicomposting technologies.
- Organizing composting demonstration trials at public events.
- Dessimination of vermiculture and vermicomposting technologies to rural women for entrepreunership development.
Infrastructure through External funding
- Establishment of heavy metal analytical laboratory to carry out research on heavy metal interaction between soil, water and plant the soil in an outlay of 50.00 lakhs under ACIAR – Australia project
- Computer lab, Microwave digester, Total Organic Carbon (TOC) analyser, Millipore unit and hydride generator for AAS for conducting PG / Ph.D. research has been established by utilizing Rs. 30.00 lakhs sanctioned by the GOI DST – FIST under Central Sector scheme on infrastructure development.
- Laboratory equipments and instruments to the tune of Rs.60.00 lakhs has been purchased utilizing the funds sanctioned under GOI DST – PURSE to carry out PG / Ph.D. research in this department.
- Establishment of compost technology park for compost production and demonstration, and dissemination of compost production technology throughout Tamil Nadu under NADP in an outlay of Rs. 200.00 Lakhs.
- Establishment of TNAU –ISRO climate change observatory at wood House farm, HRS, Ooty in an outlay of Rs. 178.00 lakhs from ISRO, Dept of Space, GOI for assessing the trace gas emission studies, aerosol studies and black carbon studies.
FUTURE STRATEGIES / Research Agenda 2019- 2024
Research Priority Area (RPA) 1: BIOREMEDIATION OF POLLUTED ENVIRONMENTS
Population explosion, industrialization and intensive agricultural activities have accelerated contamination of natural resources, namely soil, water and air. All natural resources are contaminated with organic and inorganic contaminants from various sources. Environment friendly remediation techniques are most sought out for a sustainable development of a nation. In Tamil Nadu, contamination of soil due to irrigation of untreated domestic wastewater and discharge of industrial wastewater have spoiled potential agricultural lands to an extent of 70,000 ha in major cities. Bioremediation (plants and microbes) techniques are eco-friendly and cost effective to restore the soil and water resources contaminated with organic and inorganic compounds.
- Developing in situ and ex situ integrated bioremediation strategies for restoring the contaminated soils and water due to industrial wastes and sewage water.
- Developing Environmental Experts on Bioremediation through capacity building programmes
RPA 2: WASTEWATER TREATMENT AND RECYLING
Wastewater generation from urban and industrial sectors are increasing day by day and its improper disposal on eco systems poses greater threat on environment. Around 302 polluted stretches on 275 rivers have been reported recently. The assessment on the quality of wastewater generated and its impact on eco system is mandatory for maintaining environmental quality. Recycling of treated domestic waste water (sewage) and industrial waste water for tree growth and agricultural production is a priority at the time where the availability ground water is declining. Studies on pilot scale waste water treatment techniques and the effect of treated waste water on soil quality and crop growth are essential for suitable environmental quality.
- Advanced treatment technologies for removal of pollutants in wastewater
- Development of anaerobic consortium for maximizing energy recovery from wastewater through advanced anaerobic digestion
- Ecofriendly Utilization of wastewater in crop production as a source of nutrients, organic matter and irrigation source.
- Monitoring the groundwater contamination due to industrial and domestic wastewater
- Development of remediation techniques to restore the polluted habitats due to wastewater
RPA 3: AIR POLLUTION MONITORING AND MITIGATION
Air pollution is now the world’s largest single environmental health risk and can cause a variety of environmental effects also on ecosystem and cultural heritage. Well-known pollution sources (e.g.traffic, biomass burning) and new drivers (e.g., new sources, fast urban development) bring new challenges. Aerosol particulate matter (PM), together with gases (e.g., NO x, PAH, VOCs, and SO 2),is the main pollutant responsible for atmospheric pollution and its effects. In this context, a detailed chemical characterization of particulate matter is needed to identify pollution sources and assess the environmental impact. Different kinds of environments are monitored starting from typically highly polluted urban environments, coming to background and remote sites. Monitoring air quality both indoor and outdoor is essential in order to evaluate negative effects on human health and to design the most efficient measures for a sustainable development.
- Monitoring the ambient air quality in a short spell of time for climatic forcing due to changes of Ozone, CO, NOx levels at higher altitude and ground level
- Climate change impact on emission of Green House Gases from agricultural ecosystems and its mitigation strategies.
-
- Arriving AQI (Air Quality Index) and creating data base for air particulate matter
- Developing air pollution mitigating strategies in industrial corridor
RPA 4: INTEGRATED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
Urban India faces an enormous challenge: managing its gigantic load of solid waste. It has been estimated that 62 metric tonnes (MT) of municipal solid waste (MSW) is produced per year, which is based on an average of 0.45 kg per capita per day for India’s urban population.
Apart from urban solid waste, industrial solid waste and waste generated from agricultural activities are in considerable quantities and require suitable techniques to convert them into value added products which can be recycled for agricultural production.The requirement of organic manures for agricultural production and sustainable soil health is increasing and waste to wealth conversion techniques are the need of the hour. Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) is a comprehensive waste prevention, recycling, composting, and disposal system.
- Development of microbial consortium for rapid composting of different organic waste
- Developing a nutrient rich potting medium from solid waste for urban horticulture
- Assessing the impact of composted wastes on the productivity of crops.
RPA 5: AGRO ECOLOGY AND ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
Agriculture faces the dual challenge of feeding a 9-12 billion global population by 2050 and to reducing its carbon footprint on the earth. The ecosystem services provided by natural processes such as soil formation, mineralization, nutrient cycling, bio-diversity and pollination are of great value to agricultural production, but with lesser environmental impacts. Maintenance of ecosystem services and the long-term productivity and stability of agriculture ecosystems requires a paradigm shift in agriculture that moves away from single solutions to production problems towards a portfolio approach that supports multiple ways to better use soil, water and biotic resources to achieve sustainable food production.
- Ecological impact of Miyawaki Afforestation in the urban areas
- Establishing Green Corridor for ecological preservation in the coastal and industrial areas
Faculty
Faculty Profile: 1
| Name | : Dr. K. Valliappan, Ph.D., |
| Designation | : Professor and Head |
| Address | : Department of Environmental Sciences,
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore – 641 003 |
| : | |
| Phone | : 0422 -6611452 / 9150099200 |
| Area of Specialization | : Wastewater recycling and soil
pollution |
| Years of Experience | :33 |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 10 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : 05 Nos |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 02 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 15 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 20 Nos |
| Research notes | : |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 15 Nos |
| Poster papers | : |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 16 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 20 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : |
| PG | : 02 Nos |
| PhD | : |
Faculty Profile: 2
| Name | : Dr.P.Thangavel, Ph.D., |
| Designation | :Professor |
| Address | : Department of Environmental Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore-3 |
| : pthvel@yahoo.com | |
| Phone | : 9566212564 |
| Area of Specialization | : Waste utilization and their management, Remediation of polluted habitats |
| Years of Experience | : 33 |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 2 Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 1 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 4 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 1 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 35 Nos |
| Research notes | : 9 Nos |
| Conference/Seminar
/Symposium papers |
: 54 Nos |
| Poster papers | : 10 Nos |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 11 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 23 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : |
| PG | : 12 Nos |
| PhD | : 2 Nos |
Faculty Profile: 3
| Name | : S. Avudainayagam, Ph.D., |
| Designation | : Professor |
| Address | : G2, Patteswrar Enclave
Visvesriah Street II K KPudur, Coimbatore 38 |
| : avudaicr@gmail.com | |
| Phone | : 9442615511 |
| Area of Specialization | Contamination and Remediation of heavy metals in soil and water |
| Years of Experience | : 31 years |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : – |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 5 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : 4 Nos |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 4 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 15 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 25 Nos |
| Research notes | : 5 Nos |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 5 Nos |
| Poster papers | : 3 Nos |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 7 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 3 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : 10 Nos |
| PG | : 15 Nos |
| PhD | : 3 Nos |
Faculty Profile: 4
| Name | Dr.M.Maheswari, Ph.D., |
| Designation | Professor |
| Address | Department of Environmental Sciences,
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore – 641 003 |
| maheswarisekar2004@yahoo.com | |
| Phone | 944201405 |
| Area of Specialization | Solid waste management , Anaerobic digestion and carbon sequestration |
| Years of Experience | 31 years |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | 2Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | 2Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | 5Nos |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | 6Nos |
| Research articles- International | 8Nos |
| Research articles- National | 48 Nos |
| Research notes | 12Nos |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | 35Nos |
| Poster papers | 15Nos |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | 10 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | 20Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | 10 Nos |
| PG | 15 Nos |
| PhD | 3Nos |
Faculty Profile: 5
| Name | Kamaludeen Sara Parwin Banu, Ph.D., |
| Designation | Professor |
| Address | Department of Environmental Sciences, Coimbatore |
| saraparwinbanu.k@tnau.ac.in | |
| Phone | 0422-6611252, 9597511023 |
| Environmental Microbiology, Bioremediation of tannery contaminated sites, Rhizofiltration using vetiver, Wastewater treatment by biochars, Insect gut Microbiology | |
| Years of Experience | 24 |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 2 Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 12 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : 13 Nos |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 1 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 12 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 13 Nos |
| Research notes | : 5 Nos |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 10 Nos |
| Poster papers | : 6 Nos |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 15 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 5 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : 12 Nos |
| PG | : 4 Nos |
| PhD | : 2 Nos |
Faculty Profile: 6
| Name | : G.Balasubramanian |
| Designation | : Professor |
| Address | : A1, Harihar Paradise
Nethaji Road, PN Pudur Coimbatore 41
|
| : agribalu@live.in | |
| Phone | : 9443038270 |
| Area of Specialization | Restoration of ecosystem
Industrial waste Management |
| Years of Experience | : 22 years |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 1 No. |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 3 Nos. |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : 3 Nos. |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 4 Nos. |
| Research articles- International | : 15 Nos. |
| Research articles- National | : 25Nos. |
| Research notes | : 5Nos. |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 5Nos. |
| Poster papers | : 3Nos. |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 7Nos. |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 3Nos. |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : 10Nos. |
| PG | : 15Nos. |
| PhD | : 3Nos. |
Faculty Profile: 7
| Name | Dr.M.P.Sugumaran, Ph.D., |
| Designation | Associate Professor |
| Address | Department of Environmental Sciences
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore-3 |
| sugumaran.mp@tnau.ac.in | |
| Phone | 9487126710 |
| Area of Specialization | Ecology and Biodiversity |
| Years of Experience | 14 years and 10 months |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 01 Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 03 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : |
| Research articles- International | : 07 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 10 Nos |
| Research notes | : 05 Nos |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 10 Nos |
| Poster papers | : 08 Nos |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : 4 Nos |
| PG | : 5 Nos |
| PhD | : 2 Nos |
Faculty Profile: 8
| Name | : P.Dhevagi, Ph.D.,
|
| Designation | : Associate Professor |
| Address | : No7, NithilaIllam
Near Spring Field Appartment Rams Nagar Extn P.N.Pudur Coimbatore – 641041 |
| :devagisivaraj@gmail.com | |
| Phone | : 9843530349 |
| Area of Specialization | : Microbial Remediation of Wastes |
| Years of Experience | : 15 years |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 3Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 10 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : 9 Nos |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 4 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 3 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 32 Nos |
| Research notes | : 2 Nos |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 20 Nos |
| Poster papers | : 3 Nos |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 25 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 22 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : 3 Nos |
| PG | : 2 Nos |
| PhD | : 1 Nos |
Faculty Profile: 9
| Name | : Dr.R.M.Jayabalakrishnan, Ph.D., |
| Designation | : Assistant Professor (ENS) |
| Address | : Department of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore – 641003. |
| : jayabalphd@gmail.com | |
| Phone | : 8148095422 |
| Area of Specialization | : Wastewater Treatment and Atmospheric Sciences |
| Years of Experience | : Ten Years |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 3 Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 2 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : 3 Nos |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 2 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 7 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 12 Nos |
| Research notes | : 2 Nos |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 10 Nos |
| Poster papers | : 5 Nos |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 3 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 7 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| PG | : 3 Nos |
Faculty Profile: 10
| Name | Dr. V. Davamani |
| Designation | Assistant Professor |
| Address | Department of Environmental Sciences
Directorate of Natural Resource Management Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore – 641 003 |
| vsdavamani@gmail.com | |
| Phone | 9942220163 |
| Area of Specialization | Heavy metal alleviation & Climate change |
| Years of Experience | 9 years |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 03 Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 15 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : 03 Nos |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 05 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 10 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 15 Nos |
| Research notes | : – |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 25 Nos |
| Poster papers | : – |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 15 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 20 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : 12 Nos |
| PG | : 02 Nos |
| PhD | : – |
Faculty Profile: 11
| Name | : | Dr. K.Suganya, Ph.D., |
| Designation | : | Assistant Professor |
| Address | : | Department of Environmental Sciences
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore |
| : | suganya.k@tnau.ac.in | |
| Phone | : | 9443321934 |
| Area of Specialization | : | Wastewater treatment and recycling |
| Years of Experience | : | 9 years 11 months |
| Publications | ||
| Books (ISBN) | : | 2 |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : | 1 |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : | 4 |
| Book
(Chapter without ISBN) |
: | 2 |
| Research articles- International | : | 3 |
| Research articles- National | : | 31 |
| Research notes | : | – |
| Conference/Seminar/ Symposium papers | : | 20 |
| Poster papers | : | 1 |
| Manuals Teaching/training/
e-course |
: | 11 |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : | 14 |
| Students Guided | ||
| UG | : | 9 |
| PG | : | 4 |
| PhD | : | – |
Faculty Profile: 12
| Name | Dr. S. Paul Sebastian, Ph.D., |
| Designation | Assistant Professor |
| Address | Department of Environmental Sciences
Directorate of Natural Resource Management Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore – 641 003 |
| paulsebastian.s@tnau.ac.in | |
| Phone | 0422-6611252 / 9486332581 |
| Area of Specialization | Wastewater treatment & recycling of waste |
| Years of Experience | 9 years |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 01 Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 08 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : 03 Nos |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 02 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 09 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 20 Nos |
| Research notes | : – |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 20 Nos |
| Poster papers | : – |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 10 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 32 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : 02 Nos |
| PG | : 02 Nos |
| PhD | : – |
Faculty Profile: 13
| Name | Dr. P. Kalaiselvi, Ph.D., |
| Designation | Assistant Professor |
| Address | Department of Environmental Sciences
Directorate of Natural Resource Management Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Coimbatore – 641 003 |
| kalaiselvi.p@tnau.ac.in | |
| Phone | 9003303070 |
| Area of Specialization | Bioremediation and Solid waste management |
| Years of Experience | 9 years |
| Publications | |
| Books (ISBN) | : 05 Nos |
| Books Chapter (ISBN) | : 06 Nos |
| Books (CAS/CAFT/without ISBN) | : – |
| Book (Chapter without ISBN) | : 01 Nos |
| Research articles- International | : 08 Nos |
| Research articles- National | : 15 Nos |
| Research notes | : – |
| Conference/Seminar/Symposium papers | : 15 Nos |
| Poster papers | : – |
| Manuals – Teaching/training/e-course | : 08 Nos |
| Popular articles/pamphlet/leaflet | : 24 Nos |
| Students Guided | |
| UG | : 02 Nos |
| PG | : 02 Nos |
| PhD | : –
|
Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer
The ISRO Climate Change Observatory, Woodhouse Farm, Ooty. Observatory.
Automatic Weather Station, ISRO Climate Change Woodhouse Farm, Ooty.
CNR 1 Net Radiometer and
Ozone (Thermo Fisher U.S.A Model 49i) NOx Analyzer (Thermo Fisher Model 42i-TL)
Polycarbonate Glass Open-Top Chamber for controlled Ozone Generator Model A-series No: A4G installed at O3 experiments at Woodhouse Farm, Ooty. Woodhouse Farm, Ooty.
Aethalometer(AE-31 model)
Multiwavelength Solar Radiometer(MWR)
Contact
The Professor and Head
Department of Environmental Sciences
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
Coimbatore -641003
Phone: 0422- 6611252
Email: environment @tnau.ac.in