RIGHT APPROACH CAN TURN CHALLENGES INTO STEPPING STONES
As a young climate activist from Kerala my journey was catalysed by witnessing the sheer power of nature and the destruction it wrought on my state, The sight of individuals coming together to protect communities and land was both heart-wrenching and inspiring. During that time, I volunteered and assisted in any way I could. This experience cemented my determination to work for the environment and shaped me as a youth leader in the climate space. My transformation into an environmental leader led me to spearhead key initiatives, such as the creation of the Theeram documentary series, which shaped conversations around coastal erosion. I also worked with my organization, Bring Back Green Foundation, on various reports related to environmental policy and climate change. A noteworthy achievement was our work on the Climate Education Curriculum, a revolutionary project that aimed at incorporating climate change education into the mainstream curriculum. Protection Of Human Rights As I look towards the green future of India, I see both challenges and opportunities. India, as a developing nation, must balance its rapid industrialization with environmental preservation. This balance poses a significant challenge, particularly given that we must cater to the needs of the largest population in the world. However, with the collective effort of the youth and all stakeholders, a sustainable and just transition is possible. If successfully executed, this transition could serve as a model for other nations. However, one of the major challenges we face is the protection of human rights defenders in India. Their safeguarding is crucial in ensuring a truly sustainable future. Amidst these complexities, India's rich natural resources and growing sustainability awareness offer tremendous opportunities. With the right approach, we can turn these challenges into stepping stones toward a more sustainable and greener future.
Tags : right approach challenges stepping stones transformation Akhilesh Anil Kumar Managing Director Bring Back Green Foundation environmental leader Kerala floods nature individuals communities climate space Human Rights initiatives developing opportunities