Strengthening Environmental Data Systems in Odisha

Odisha encompasses extraordinary environmental richness, with its 480 km coastline, forests covering 33% of its landmass, and diverse ecosystems from Eastern Ghats to mangrove wetlands. This environmental wealth coexists with the state’s industrial development, particularly in the steel, aluminium, and mining sectors that drive Odisha’s economic growth and state revenues. These industries, while vital for development, create significant environmental challenges, with thousands of industrial units requiring rigorous emissions monitoring. The complex task of balancing industrial growth with environmental protection necessitates sophisticated data systems for effective environmental regulation.

DPIC is collaborating with the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) to assess and strengthen environmental data systems. This engagement focuses on evaluating data quality from continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS), enhancing data visualization capabilities, and building institutional capacity for more effective environmental oversight. This collaboration builds upon a historical relationship between the University of Chicago Trust and OSPCB, which began with EPIC India’s implementation of the Star Rating Program for emissions transparency in Odisha’s industrial sectors.

Our approach combines technical assessments with institutional capacity analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of current systems. DPIC has conducted a detailed review of data flows—examining how information is generated, transmitted, stored, and utilized for regulatory purposes. This includes analysing emissions data collection frameworks, exploring integration between various data systems, and identifying potential areas for enhancement across the state’s diverse geography.

This collaboration represents merely the beginning of exploring Odisha’s vast environmental data landscape. Beyond industrial emissions, there lie substantial opportunities to expand data-driven approaches across air quality monitoring, water pollution management, and climate resilience initiatives. As Odisha continues to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, enhancing its capacity for evidence-based environmental governance will be crucial. DPIC remains committed to supporting this journey, helping transform environmental challenges into opportunities for sustainable innovation that benefit both Odisha’s economy and its irreplaceable natural heritage.