Prerna Agarwal, Founder

The way everything in nature evolves in its own time, so did my journey towards establishing Ecosphere Connect.

After completing my Master’s in Biodiversity from Savitribai Phule University of Pune in 2010, I was awarded the UK-India Education Research Initiative (UKIERI) fellowship to study at the University of Leeds. During this time, I volunteered on the Urban Pollinators Project, where I witnessed firsthand how thoughtfully designed green spaces can support rich biodiversity in cities—whether it was butterflies feeding on Buddleja, bees visiting elderberry hedges, or vibrant flower patches buzzing with life. This experience shaped my understanding of the ecological potential of urban landscapes.

Returning to Pune, I became increasingly aware of the shrinking green cover and the limited ecological function of many existing green spaces. Through conversations with citizens, landscape architects, and peers, it became clear that there was a significant gap between ecological knowledge and on-ground implementation. While many people were interested in creating biodiversity-friendly spaces—whether in campuses, backyards, or balconies—they often lacked the guidance to begin.

My long-term involvement with Udaan Biodiversity Park in Pune further deepened this understanding. As an ecological consultant, I had the opportunity to help transform a landscaped 1.5-acre public space into a thriving ecosystem and nature education hub. Seeing the outcomes first-hand of planting right further boosted my confidence. Today, the park supports a diversity of birds, butterflies, bees, and other wildlife, while also engaging a daily footfall of over 300 visitors.

Building on these experiences, I founded Ecosphere Connect in 2018 to bridge the gap between ecological knowledge and practical implementation. The practice focuses on designing and restoring landscapes into biodiversity-rich, ecologically functional ecosystems through context-specific strategies and native species.

Alongside design and restoration work, community engagement remains central to the approach. My experience working with citizens groups and students highlighted the importance of building green champions in sustaining ecological spaces. Through workshops and interactions, I continue to promote wildlife-friendly practices and encourage individuals to engage with nature in meaningful ways.

In my personal time, I enjoy practicing Yoga and Vipassana. Both ecology and these practices share a common thread—the recognition of interconnectedness. Nurturing a landscape and watching it evolve is a reminder of these relationships, and it is this sense of connection that Ecosphere Connect seeks to foster.