

Welcome to the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering (ESE). The Department of Environmental Science and Engineering was created out of existing Centre of Mining Environment (established in 1987) at Institute in June 2007 with the commencement of a regular B.Tech. Degree in Environmental Engineering under IIT-JEE (first of its kind offered by any national institute). In addition to the B.Tech. program, the department initiated the Ph.D. program in Environmental Science & Engineering in 1989 and the M.Tech. program in 1991. This department is also accredited with ISO 9001 and OHSAS 18001 Certificate along with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) accredited state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.
Our journey began in 1987 as the Centre for Mining Environment (CME), a pioneering initiative recognized as a Centre of Excellence in Mine Environment by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India. Over the years, we have evolved into a full-fledged department, achieving departmental status in 2007 and launching India’s first B.Tech. program in Environmental Engineering under IIT JEE—a trailblazer among national institutions. In addition to the B.Tech. program, the department initiated the Ph.D. program in Environmental Science & Engineering in 1989 and the M.Tech. program in 1991, establishing itself as a comprehensive academic and research hub in the field.
Our alumni have set benchmarks across diverse fields—whether leading in Navratna and Miniratna companies, contributing to corporate sustainability, advancing government policies, steering entrepreneurial ventures, supporting non-profits, or excelling in academia. The hallmark of an ESE graduate is innovative thinking, academic depth, and a drive for constructive societal impact.
In addition to producing accomplished graduates, the department actively organizes industry-focused training programs to address the evolving needs of organizations and professionals. Our faculty, students, and alumni collectively strive to create solutions that impact industries and society at large.
Our unwavering commitment to excellence in education, groundbreaking research, and the pursuit of innovative solutions to critical environmental challenges drives us to aim even higher—envisioning a future where the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering becomes a globally recognized leader in the field.
This journey of growth and achievement is fuelled by the passion of our students, the dedication of our faculty, the prestige of our alumni, and the confidence of recruiters in our graduates’ skills and expertise. As the Head of this dynamic department, I am delighted to invite you to explore the exceptional talent nurtured here. Together, we can build a sustainable future while pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence in Environmental Science and Engineering
Head of the Department
Application of machine learning models for water quality prediction in a coal-mining region: Insights into fluoride and phenol contamination in Dhanbad District, Eastern India. (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128558)
Green synthesis of a visible-light-active 0D/0D MnO2/CuO pn heterojunction for continuous-flow iohexol degradation with machine-learning-assisted performance prediction. (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2026.138858)
Hydrothermal liquefaction of wood sawdust for the production of high-quality bio-crude oil: Effects of zeolite, co-reactant, reaction process parameters, and reaction pathways. (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biombioe.2026.109673)
As part of the nationwide #CatchTheRain Campaign of the National Water Mission, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, RD & GR, Govt. of India, the EIACP Programme Centre (RP), Department of ESE, IIT (ISM), Dhanbad, organized an Awareness Programme on "Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Recharge" on 14.07.2026. The programme featured an expert lecture, a field visit, and a hands-on demonstration of the Institute's rainwater harvesting infrastructure. Educational posters, awareness materials, and infographics on rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and water conservation were also displayed and distributed to reinforce key messages. The programme encouraged students to adopt water conservation practices and become Water Conservation Ambassadors, inspiring sustainable water management within their schools, families, and communities.
14 Jul, 2026
As part of #VanMahotsav2026, the EIACP Centre, Dept. of ESE, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, in association with Horticulture Section, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, organized Seed Ball Throwing and Plantation Drive under the #EkPedMaaKeNaam campaign on 7 July 2026. As a meaningful continuation of the Seed Ball Making Workshop organized on 2 July 2026 at IIT (ISM), the seed balls prepared by participants during the workshop were dispersed across suitable locations to promote natural regeneration, biodiversity conservation, and ecological restoration. Native tree species, including Chakundi, Neem, Mango, Karanj, and Amla, were also planted. Faculty members, staff, students, research scholars, and other stakeholders enthusiastically participated, reaffirming their collective commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.
7 Jul, 2026
As part of the Van Mahotsav 2026 celebrations, the EIACP Programme Centre, Dept. of ESE, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, in collaboration with Jai Dharti Maa Foundation, Dhanbad, organized an Organic Farming Exposure Visit, Plantation Drive under "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign, and Mission LiFE: Lifestyle for Environment Awareness Programme on 03 July 2026 to promote environmental stewardship, and environmentally responsible lifestyles. Participants gained valuable insights into the principles of organic farming, sustainable agriculture, and environmentally responsible farming practices. A plantation drive was conducted at Utkramit Uchch Vidyalay, Lowadih, where around 30 saplings were planted and distributed. The Mission LiFE awareness programme encouraged students to adopt sustainable lifestyles and environmental responsibility. The programme strengthened environmental awareness and inspired participants to adopt sustainable practices for a greener, healthier, and sustainable future.
3 Jul, 2026