The trend of unsustainable development and an inadequate regulatory framework poses significant environmental risks and furthers climate change and global warming. Global approaches to address the issue are more or less ‘one-size-fits-all’ and have often proved ineffective. Localised interventions, on the other hand, offer a promising alternative in promoting sustainability and benefitting local communities. This article explores the efficacy of ‘pond rejuvenation’ as one of many such localised strategies to mitigat e climate change and global warming. Ponds play a critical role in groundwater recharge and micro-climate regulation, mitigating the urban heat island effect, and shaping local responses towards natural resources. The research for this article employed a mixed-methods approach, including a survey of residents in two villages in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, and the analysis of publicly available meteorological data like precipitation and temperature pre- and post-rejuvenation. Key questions addressed include changes in temperature, precipitation, biodiversity, socio-economic impacts, and the importance of community participation.

The findings highlight the increase in warmer and drier months of urban heat islands in the study region. Although post-rejuvenation mitigation of the urban heat island effect and moderation of local micro-climates has taken place to some extent, it needs further research. The study undertaken for this article underscores the value of integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation efforts, advocating for localised solutions as a viable path towards sustainable development and climate adaptation.