In recent years, a resurgence of interest in reconnecting with "nature" has emerged, driven by its inherent benefits and the need to address societal and environmental challenges. However, the concept of "nature" remains ambiguous within architectural contexts, necessitating a nuanced approach. The theory of biophilia, rooted in the inherent human inclination towards life and lifelike processes, has led to the development of biophilic design principles. These principles aim to incorporate natural elements into built environments, enhancing human well-being and connection with nature. By integrating biophilic design into sustainable architecture, architects can address various challenges, from mitigating climate change to improving human health. Interdisciplinary collaboration and a nuanced understanding of biophilic design implications are essential for its successful implementation. Overall, biophilic design offers a compelling framework for creating sustainable and human-centric built environments, prioritizing elements that contribute effectively to human well-being and connection with nature. Through innovative design solutions, architects can address complex societal and environmental challenges, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Mangrove ecosystems play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of natural disasters on coastal regions worldwide. This comprehensive review paper synthesizes multidisciplinary studies to explore the contribution of mangroves in reducing the risk of catastrophes such as storm surges, tsunamis, hurricanes, and coastal erosion. By analysing the complex relationships between mangroves and natural disasters, we delve into factors such as species composition, forest structure, hydrological regimes, and coastal geomorphology. Additionally, we investigate the socioeconomic implications of mangrove conservation and restoration efforts, highlighting their potential to enhance resilience and sustainable development in coastal communities. The paper presents a detailed examination of wave characteristics, types, and attenuation mechanisms, focusing on how mangrove features such as prop roots, knee roots, and pneumatophores influence wave dissipation. We discuss various numerical and statistical models used to predict wave attenuation through mangroves, providing insights into their strengths and limitations. Furthermore, we explore global and India-specific mangrove cover status, important species, and conservation measures, including legal frameworks and initiatives by governmental and non-governmental organizations. Finally, the review underscores the urgency of conserving and restoring mangrove ecosystems to safeguard both human well-being and ecological integrity in the face of escalating climate-related threats. It advocates for evidence-based decision-making and policy development in disaster risk management and climate adaptation, emphasizing the pivotal role of mangroves as natural shields against natural calamities. Overall, this paper contributes to the understanding of mangrove-mediated hazard reduction and provides guidance for maximizing the resilience of coastal communities in an increasingly volatile world.

Biochar is a carbon-rich product that is produced by pyrolysis of organic biomass like forestry waste, animal manure and crop residues in low oxygen conditions using thermochemical processes like pyrolysis, torrefaction, gasification. Slow pyrolysis is most widely utilized among them due to its increased yield and carbon stability. Properties of biochar such as pH, surface area, porosity and nutrient content depend on the feedstock and production conditions. As a green and sustainable solution, biochar finds applications across multiple sectors. In forestry, it enhances soil porosity, water retention capacity, nutrient supply and microbial activity, which stimulates forest regeneration and reduces forest fire risks. In agriculture, biochar enhances soil fertility, agricultural yields, minimizes fertilizer use and leaching of nutrients. Biochar also plays a significant role in climate change mitigation by sequestering carbon in soils for long periods and reducing greenhouse gas emissions such as methane and nitrous oxide. In environmental remediation, its porous structure allows for the adsorption of heavy metals and organic pollutants from soil and water. In the energy industry, biochar is used as a solid renewable fuel or as a byproduct of syngas-producing or bio-oil producing systems. All these multi-variant uses make biochar a powerful instrument for circular economy initiatives, sustainable land management and climate action. With continued research and policy support, biochar presents a potential route toward ecological restoration and stable ecological conditions.

Biomass estimation is pivotal in understanding and managing global carbon stocks, offering vital insights into climate change and environmental ecology. It serves as a critical tool for evaluating carbon sequestration potential, a natural mechanism for regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Accurate estimation of forest biomass not only aids in quantifying carbon stocks but also provides a basis for sustainable forest management, conservation efforts, and policymaking to mitigate climate change impacts. This article provides a comprehensive review of various biomass estimation methods, including ground-based measurements, remote sensing technologies, and hybrid approaches. Each method's strengths, limitations, and practical applications are critically examined, highlighting their suitability for different spatial scales and ecological contexts. Traditional methods, while precise at small scales, are often labour-intensive and limited in coverage. In contrast, remote sensing technologies such as LiDAR, RADAR, and hyperspectral imaging have revolutionized biomass estimation by enabling large-scale and high-resolution assessments. Additionally, recent advancements in machine learning, data fusion, and satellite-based monitoring systems are transforming the field, offering unprecedented accuracy and efficiency. By presenting these trends and innovations, this article provides valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of integrating advanced technologies into biomass estimation for sustainable development and climate resilience.

Lantana camara L., is a versatile plant belongs to the family Verbenaceae. It is indigenous to the Americas and is extensively distributed in tropical and subtropical areas. Despite its ecological challenges as an invasive species, it provides various benefits. This review explores its origin, distribution and adaptability to diverse ecosystems. The plant contains bioactive compounds like terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolics and alkaloids, which are extracted through solvent extraction and steam distillation. These substances have strong biological properties, such as antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer properties. L. camara has ethnomedicinal value and is being studied for its potential in treating conditions like inflammation, diabetes, ulcers and wounds. Its rapid growth and resilient seeds make it difficult to control, requiring targeted management strategies. Nevertheless, the plant offers ecological benefits, enriching soil nitrogen and supporting carbon sequestration. Industrially, L. camara provides resources like oleanolic acid, carboxymethylcellulose and biomass for bioethanol and biogas production. Its fibres reinforce biomaterials and its extract is used to treat bovine dermatophilosis. The plant’s biomass has the potential for bio-energy, furniture making, basket weaving and insect repellents, offering sustainable solutions for cottage industries. This review highlights how L. camara, despite its invasiveness, can be harnessed for ecological and industrial applications.

REVIEW ON WOOD PROPERTIES OF INDIGENOUS TREE SPECIES FOR PULP AND PAPER PRODUCTION Abstract This comparative review of the anatomical and chemical properties of indigenous tree species to determine their suitability for pulp and paper production, a sector crucial for industrial and economic development. Recognizing the critical gap in comprehensive documentation on the wood properties essential for paper production, this paper aims to serve as a benchmark for future research, guiding pulp and paper producers in selecting the most appropriate materials. It delves into the global and Indian scenarios, highlighting the pressing need for sustainable materials in the face of escalating greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector and the burgeoning demand for wood amidst dwindling supplies. By examining a variety of species, such as Albizia lebbeck, Albizia falcataria, Gmelina arborea, Melia dubia, Leucaena leucocephala, Acacia auriculiformis, and Dalbergia sissoo.The study not only explores their potential in pulp and paper production but also considers their ecological values, thereby emphasizing a holistic approach to resource utilization. Keywords: Indigenous Tree Species, Wood Properties, Sustainable Utilization, Anatomical and Chemical Composition