India’s commitment to sustainable development takes a prominent step forward with the Summit on Sustainability 2024, hosted by the Energy Consortium at IIT Madras and Pollution Control India. This summit brings together thought leaders and stakeholders from various sectors to align with the Paris Agreement, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and India’s national sustainability objectives.
The event highlights India’s ongoing progress in emission reductions and renewable energy expansion, building upon these achievements to foster collaboration and share strategies for effective climate action. Discussions will cover topics like corporate sustainability, grassroots leadership, waste-to-wealth solutions, circular economy adoption, sustainable infrastructure, and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).
The summit’s opening ceremony featured prominent guests, including Nikhil Tambe, CEO of The Energy Consortium at IIT Madras; Anuradda Ganesh, Co-Founder of ARANTREE Consulting Services Pvt Ltd; Dr Indumathi Nambi, Professor at IIT Madras; Nishta Gupta, Head of Sustainability & ESG at Suzlon Energy Ltd; Ramveer Tanwar, Founder of Say Earth NGO; and several other leaders from academia, business, and environmental advocacy.
Nandkumar E, CEO of the International Centre for Clean Water, highlighted the urgent global challenge posed by water scarcity and pollution. He emphasized the center’s role in advancing technologies and community-driven solutions to ensure sustainable water use, which is integral to public health, economic growth, and environmental resilience.
Dr Anuradda Ganesh discussed the importance of decarbonization and sustainability in industries, with ARANTREE Consulting Services driving evidence-based solutions through life cycle assessments, carbon footprint analysis, and decarbonization strategies. The firm is focused on using advanced technologies to create scalable solutions for businesses in this critical era of climate urgency.
Sathvik Batte, CEO of Marichin Sustainables, expressed optimism about the potential for India to lead in carbon credits and renewable energy technologies. He noted that India’s vision, backed by solar energy becoming more affordable than thermal power, positions the country as a global leader in sustainable solutions.
Himakshi Singh, the event spokesperson, emphasized the summit’s goal of inspiring continuous engagement for tangible results. The event aims to serve as a catalyst for ongoing collaboration, helping India move closer to its net-zero targets through government support, sustainable practices, and stronger ESG frameworks.
At COP29, global leaders acknowledged the severe economic impacts of climate change on G20 economies, underscoring the need for rapid emissions cuts. The Summit on Sustainability serves as a platform for industry experts, academia, and NGOs to discuss sustainable technologies, green energy advancements, and the critical role of local communities in climate action.
The summit promises to provide actionable insights, practical frameworks, and collaboration opportunities to drive India’s leadership in global climate action, positioning sustainability as a core principle for businesses, communities, and individuals. The Summit on Sustainability is an event organized by the Energy Consortium at IIT Madras and Pollution Control India, with support from IGBC Mumbai Chapter, IIT Madras Alumni Association, International Center for Clean Water, and other key partners. It aims to foster long-term sustainability efforts across various sectors.