The Summit on Sustainability 2024, hosted by the Energy Consortium – IIT Madras and Pollution Control India, showcased India’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development.
The event brought together leaders from diverse sectors to align strategies with the Paris Agreement, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and India’s own sustainability objectives.
Focus on Collaborative Solutions
With a focus on building upon India’s progress in emission reduction and renewable energy, the summit emphasized collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Key discussions revolved around Corporate Sustainability, Grassroots Leadership, Waste-to-Wealth Innovations, Circular Economy Adoption, Sustainable Infrastructure, and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).
Distinguished Speakers Lead the Charge
The inaugural session featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including:
- Nikhil Tambe, CEO, The Energy Consortium, IIT Madras
- Dr. Indumathi Nambi, Professor of Environmental Engineering & School of Sustainability, IIT Madras
- Nishta Gupta, Head of Sustainability & ESG, Suzlon Energy Ltd.
- Ramveer Tanwar, Founder, Say Earth NGO
- Sathvik Batte, CEO, Marichin Sustainables
- Dr. Mala Singh, Chairperson, IGBC (CII) Mumbai Chapter
- Nandakumar E, CEO, International Centre for Clean Water (ICCW), and others.
Innovating for Water Sustainability
Highlighting the urgency of addressing water scarcity, Nandakumar E, CEO of ICCW explained, “Water is the lifeblood of society and industry, yet its scarcity and pollution are pressing global challenges. At ICCW, an IIT Madras initiative, we innovate at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and community impact. Our work spans analyzing over 130 water quality parameters, advancing industrial R&D to reduce effluent pollution, and developing predictive models on water quality and its connection with energy and health”.
Nandakumar emphasized the need for a cultural shift toward respecting water to ensure its sustainable use while advancing public health and economic growth.
Driving Decarbonization and Technology
Dr. Anuradda Ganesh, Co-Founder of ARANTREE Consulting Services Pvt Ltd stated, “At ARANTREE, we specialize in life cycle assessments, carbon footprint analysis, and tailored decarbonization roadmaps. By leveraging technologies such as AI, ML, and robotics, we aim to create scalable, resilient, and economically viable solutions for industries. This transformative era demands urgent action shaped by climate urgency, regulatory pressures, and social responsibility”.
Unlocking India’s Sustainability Potential
Reflecting on India’s potential in the global sustainability sector, Sathvik Batte, CEO of Marichin Sustainables said, “India could become the carbon credit capital of the world. Solar energy is now cheaper than thermal power, and technologies like direct air capture will soon become cost-effective. Events like this summit are crucial for fostering valuable conversations and partnerships”.
Call for Action
The Summit on Sustainability 2024 stands as a testament to India’s leadership in addressing climate challenges.
The press release celebrated the nation’s achievements. It also set the stage for future innovations, collaborations, and actionable strategies. These aim to drive a greener and more resilient future.
