Fostering sustainability through education, research and practice: a case study of TERI University

•The paper presents a unique and innovative approach for ESD in HEIs in India.•The pedagogy at TU uses blended learning to strengthen global ESD linkages.•The ESRM program brings interdisciplinary approach in teaching, research and learning.•Green campus and EMS cell inspires students to learn and implement.•TU has been recently honored with the 'Most Innovative Curriculum’ award in 2012.

This paper reflects the philosophy of TERI University of intrinsically building the concept of sustainable development (SD) through higher education and research. This has been illustrated by taking up an example of its flagship postgraduate program in Environmental Studies and Resource Management. The program is built by seamless integration of sustainability concept that incorporates social, cultural, economic, scientific, technological, legal and policy perspectives to address issues related to environment and resource management by laying strong emphasis on experimental/empirical evidence. The pedagogy of the program is based on blended learning using face-to-face interactions, live case studies, field visits, conferences, seminars and active use of information and communication technology. The curriculum has been designed by seamlessly integrating the principles of SD in an interdisciplinary framework. This has resulted in creation of a cadre of motivated and trained students who have taken the initiative for achieving sustainability on the campus through an environmental management plan and policy that focuses on five key environmental aspects – energy, resources, waste (solid and hazardous), ambient/indoor air and landscaping.