About Us
Who We Are
We at SCAFON are dedicated to laying a scientific groundwork to strengthen the bond between people and their surroundings.
By integrating natural and social sciences, our aim is to enhance human well-being and preserve both natural and managed ecosystems.
This entails fostering innovative economic development strategies that are both culturally and socially resonant, while also ensuring environmental sustainability.
Our Vision
At the Scientific and Cultural Foundation for Nature (SCFON), our aim is to foster awareness among individuals, fostering a deeper connection with the environment through cultural lenses.
Our Mission
The Scientific and Cultural Foundation for Nature is committed to:
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Conducting research on cultural elements that contribute to preserving natural diversity.
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Exploring the significance of democratic involvement in nature conservation.
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Advocating for human rights, encompassing the rights to life, health, free expression, and creativity.
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Transmitting experiences and insights to policymakers, integrating learned lessons into planning and strategies.
Our Team
We have an energetic team of young professionals hailing from various regions of the country, dedicatedly working towards actualizing SCAFON's vision.
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Our team comprises practitioners and researchers proficient in comprehending the cultural nuances intertwined with conservation efforts within a landscape and its inhabitants.
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Continuously endeavoring to address intricate grassroots-level challenges, they consistently aim to offer comprehensive solutions while maintaining a holistic outlook.
Founder
Bharath Reddy
Bharath Reddy, the visionary founder of SCAFON, is a passionate advocate for the intersection of culture and conservation. With a deep-rooted commitment to preserving traditional knowledge and biodiversity, Bharath embarked on a mission to establish SCAFON as a platform for fostering sustainable relationships between people and the environment.
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Drawing upon his expertise in both cultural studies and environmental science, Bharath has been instrumental in guiding SCAFON's initiatives towards promoting holistic approaches to conservation.
Campaigner
Sudha Kottillil
Sudha, an ecologist and researcher, presently serves as a research fellow, focusing on human-wildlife interactions and the socio-cultural dimensions of conservation. Additionally, she holds expertise in elasmobranch conservation and sustainable fisheries management along the Indian coastline. Sudha earned her master's degree in Environmental Studies and Natural Resource Management from the TERI School of Advanced Studies, following a bachelor's degree in Advanced Zoology and Biotechnology.
Campaigner
Shruthi Kottillil
Shruthi, an ecologist and research fellow specializing in biodiversity conservation, holds degrees in BSc Advanced Zoology and Biotechnology, as well as an MSc in Environmental Studies and Resource Management. With a diverse background, Shruthi has engaged in various projects, including terrestrial endeavors, wildlife rehabilitation, and species conservation, notably focusing on bat populations in the northeast and the Western Ghats. Over the past three years, she has directed her efforts towards marine ecosystems, particularly emphasizing elasmobranch conservation and fisheries management. As a member of the Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN), Shruthi actively coordinates its India chapter.
Project Coordinator
Prashanth
Prashanth, holding an MSc in Environmental Science, possesses a profound enthusiasm for wildlife, particularly in ornithology. His academic pursuits have been predominantly focused on avian studies, reflecting his keen interest in understanding and conserving bird species. Prashanth's passion lies in conservation action, where he actively seeks to translate his knowledge and research findings into tangible efforts aimed at preserving biodiversity. With a strong foundation in environmental science and a specialized focus on ornithology, Prashanth is poised to make significant contributions to the field of wildlife conservation.