​
​
DELHI'S CLIMATE NETWORK
D O C T O R A L R E S E A R C H P R O J E C T
ADVISOR: OREN PIZMONY-LEVY
METHOD: SOCIAL NETWORK ANALYSIS
TOOLS: UCINET, FIGMA

This study explores the influence of online social networks in shaping climate change education (CCE) movements in Delhi, a city confronted with pressing environmental challenges, including poor air quality, water scarcity, and the urban heat island effect. In response to these issues, digital movements have emerged as essential platforms for education and advocacy, especially amongst the youth. However, how these online networks translate into on-ground action, particularly in education, remains underexplored. Using Social Network Analysis (SNA), this research maps interactions among digital activists, educators, and NGOs to identify key actors, significant connections, and the mechanisms by which digital movements disseminate climate knowledge and inspire community action. Data is collected by scraping publicly available Instagram content, focusing on the two largest youth climate organizations in Delhi and their frequent collaborators. This analysis provides insights into the structure and dynamics of these digital networks, identifying central nodes, key influencers, and patterns of interaction, revealing the flow of information and collaboration pathways. Instagram, chosen for its prominence as India’s largest social media platform with nearly 400 million users, serves as the primary source for this study. Preliminary literature suggests that digital movements led by NGOs, environmental activists, and educators are crucial in driving community engagement. By examining the strengths and limitations of these online and in-person networks, this study aims to deepen understanding of how digital platforms can effectively promote education, collaboration, and climate action. This research will be presented at the 2025 CIES Conference and TC Sustainability Projects Showcase.
M E T H O D O L O G Y
This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative techniques to explore the dynamics of youth climate activism in Delhi, with a particular focus on educational events and organizations. The primary method used is Social Network Analysis (SNA), which provides a robust framework for understanding the relational structure and influence of the types of climate action events in Delhi and their connections to local organizations. The social network is complemented with qualitative data attributes, which help identify the types of climate change events and organizations involved.

