Our Impacts so far
Farmers supported
Trees Planted
Families empowered
Years of environmental action
Publications
Trusted by Communities, Institutions & Partners
Our Key
Focus Areas
For over 36 years, Thanal has been a pioneering force in environmental action, making us one of the oldest organisations in Kerala. Through research, advocacy, action and education, we are committed to fostering environmental health and justice, leaving a profound impact on policies from local to the global levels.
We work at the grassroots level to learn, build capacity and collective knowledge to address the issues. From planning to implementation, we are dedicated to being an integral part of the solution. We continue to strive to expand our programs and services to the people and make our impact as an organization.
How we work?
At Thanal, change begins with people, grows through knowledge, and sustains through long-term ecological action. Our work is grounded in communities, guided by science, and driven by the belief that sustainability must be lived, not just taught.
Environmental Education
Building ecological awareness in schools and communities
We create learning spaces that connect people with nature, climate responsibility, and sustainable living from a young age.
Farmer-Led Sustainability
Strengthening livelihoods through agroecology
We work with farmers to build climate-resilient livelihoods rooted in traditional knowledge, ecological farming, and long-term income security.
Community Knowledge Systems
Learning with communities, not for them
Our work is built on co-creation, where communities are partners, not beneficiaries, shaping solutions together through shared knowledge and lived experience.
Science-Led Community Action
Blending data, ecology, and grassroots action
We integrate science, technology, and local wisdom to create practical, community-driven solutions for climate action, conservation, and resilience.
Together We can rewrite narratives for a
Greener, Better Future for our People and Planet
There are so many ways you can get involved and craft changes to build a future where nature and people thrive in harmony.
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Stories of impact
Creating Change, Building Futures and Transforming Communities with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Partnerships
Powering Learning with Clean Energy: Anganjyoti Initiative
With the support of KIMS Health, Thanal Trust launched the Anganjyoti Program to provide solar-powered electricity to early learning centres. Inaugurated on 31 October 2025 at Thachambath and Mundanadapp Anganwadis, the initiative addresses challenges caused by unreliable power supply. The installed solar systems ensure consistent electricity for lighting and daily activities, improving comfort and safety for children. The programme reduces dependence on grid power and lowers operational costs while promoting clean energy use. It supports uninterrupted learning environments and encourages communities to adopt sustainable, renewable energy solutions in everyday life.
Creating Spaces for Pollinators: Butterfly Garden Initiative
Butterflies are vital pollinators that support plant growth and biodiversity, contributing to food systems and ecological balance. However, their populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. To address this, Thanal Trust, with support from KIMS Health, launched a Butterfly Garden initiative across schools in Thiruvananthapuram. Using native plants, these gardens support the full butterfly life cycle while serving as living classrooms. Over 220 students participated, gaining hands-on experience in conservation. The initiative promotes environmental awareness, strengthens urban biodiversity, and encourages young minds to take active roles in protecting nature.
Reviving Nature, Honouring Legacy: Smrithivanam Initiative
With the support of KIMS Health, Thanal Trust inaugurated Smrithivanam at Meenangadi, Attappadi, on 12 October 2025. This ecological restoration and memorial forest initiative is envisioned as a living tribute to poet and environmentalist Sugathakumari Teacher. The project addresses land degradation and biodiversity loss by restoring 3 acres with native species of the Western Ghats, creating a self-sustaining forest ecosystem. It enhances soil health, supports biodiversity, and improves climate resilience. With active participation from communities, students, and volunteers, 500 saplings have been planted so far, with a long-term goal of 10,000, promoting community ownership and sustainable conservation efforts.
Ensuring Water Security for Schools: Rainwater Harvesting Initiative
With the support of UST, Thanal Trust installed a rainwater harvesting system at Govt. LPS School, Madamon North, Ranni, inaugurated on 9 January 2023. The school previously faced severe water shortages due to a damaged system, relying on costly external sources that affected students and staff. The new 20,000-litre system restored reliable on-site water access for drinking and sanitation. It improved hygiene, supported daily school activities, and reduced dependence on purchased water. Benefiting over 50 students and staff, the initiative ensures water security and serves as a sustainable, low-maintenance solution for seasonal water challenges.
Strengthening Livelihoods Through Millet Processing
With the support of UST, Thanal Trust established a Millet Processing Unit in Attappady, inaugurated on 20 December 2021. The initiative addresses the lack of local processing facilities that affected farmers’ ability to create market-ready products. The unit enables efficient processing, improves product value, and enhances income opportunities for tribal farmers. It also creates employment, especially for women, who actively manage and operate the facility. By promoting traditional and nutritious millet-based foods, the initiative strengthens local food systems and market access, contributing to sustainable livelihoods and long-term economic resilience in the community.
Improving Water Access for Tribal Communities
With the support of RWDI, Thanal Trust implemented a Water Resource Development project in Arippa Hamlet to address recurring water scarcity affecting tribal families. The initiative included the installation of a borewell and pump house to ensure reliable water access for daily use and small-scale agriculture. The project has reduced dependence on distant and uncertain water sources while improving household water availability. Benefiting around 20 families, it helps stabilise livelihoods and reduce seasonal vulnerability. The intervention supports community well-being through shared infrastructure, providing a sustainable solution for long-term water security in the hamlet.
Bringing Safe Drinking Water Closer: Sankalp Initiative
With the support of Mahindra Logistics, Thanal Trust implemented the Sankalp community drinking water project in Manakkayam hamlet, Ranni, in January 2022. The initiative addressed long-standing challenges faced by 27 tribal households who depended on distant water sources. A gravity-fed pipeline system now channels water from a forest pond into a community storage tank, ensuring easy access to clean drinking water. Additionally, a solar-powered pump installed at a nearby stream strengthens supply reliability. The project has reduced hardship, eliminated long walks for water collection, and improved daily life for the community.
Responding to Crisis with Care: Pandemic Emergency Support
With the support of Pesticide Action Network India and UST, Thanal Trust implemented a Pandemic Emergency Response in 2021 across tribal hamlets in Kerala. The initiative addressed challenges caused by COVID-19 and floods, supporting vulnerable families with food, education, and sanitation. Around 310 food kits were distributed, 500 students received study materials, and 14 study centres were supported. Sanitation assistance reached nearly 250 families. The response helped ensure continuity in learning, improved health safety, and reduced hardship during the crisis, later transitioning into long-term community development and resilience-building efforts.
Empowering Women Through Food Enterprises
With the support of KIMS Health, Thanal Trust established women-led Food Processing and Flour Mill Units in Kulathupuzha on 9 April 2025. The initiative enabled tribal Self-Help Groups to transform traditional food knowledge into sustainable livelihoods. A flour mill and chapathi unit, along with a traditional food processing unit, provide access to production infrastructure and local market opportunities. Women now manage production, quality, and sales, strengthening entrepreneurship and income generation. The units promote value addition to local produce, reduce dependence on external facilities, and support community-based, self-reliant economic development.
Growing Green Futures: Fruit Forest Initiative
With the support of KIMS Health and RWDI, Thanal Trust launched the Fruit Forest Initiative to promote biodiversity and ecological learning through fruit-bearing tree plantations. Implemented across school campuses and community spaces, the initiative combines restoration with education and participation. Since 2024, fruit forests established in schools and Ruh Farms have involved students, teachers, and communities in planting and care. Over 400 saplings have been planted, supporting soil health, biodiversity, and sustainable food systems. The initiative encourages environmental responsibility, strengthens green cover, and demonstrates a scalable model for community-driven ecological restoration.
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