Every year, World Environment Day offers a crucial opportunity for individuals, businesses, and governments worldwide to reflect on the urgent need for environmental protection and sustainability. In 2025, industry leaders from India’s renewable energy and sustainability sectors have shared their insights on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Their perspectives reveal a shared commitment to driving systemic change, innovation, and collaboration to secure a healthier planet.

The pressing environmental issues highlighted by these leaders include air pollution from agricultural practices, plastic pollution, waste from renewable energy components, climate change, and the need for energy transitions that are just and inclusive. These challenges require bold action, new technologies, and changes in mindset to build resilient and sustainable systems for the future.

Gyanesh Chaudhary, Chairman & Managing Director of Vikram Solar, emphasized that the energy sector’s transformation must be both swift and equitable. He stated, “We need an energy transition that is swift and scalable, but also just, inclusive, and durable… The choices we make today will determine whether we inherit a livable planet or leave behind a legacy of missed chances.” His words urge a systemic approach that balances growth with environmental harmony.

Sundeep Gupta, Vice Chairman of Jakson Group, pointed out the scale and urgency of climate change impacts: “The alarming 83% surge in climate-related disasters over the last two decades, with the energy sector contributing over 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions, underscores the urgency.” He also shared the company’s commitment to renewable energy and climate-resilient infrastructure, emphasizing that sustainability is key to future profitability.

Vivek Bhide, Regional President of John Cockerill India, believes that the path to a sustainable future is shaped by bold action, deep collaboration, and purposeful innovation. On World Environment Day, we are reminded that lasting environmental impact comes not just from ideas, but from implementation on a scale. We remain committed to co-creating technologies that empower industries, uplift communities, and help shape a greener tomorrow for India and the world.”

Gautam Mohanka, CEO of Gautam Solar, believe solar energy is not only a technological feat but a collective moral and environmental responsibility. Each solar installation reduces carbon emissions, lowers pollution, conserves natural habitats, and fosters collaboration and decentralised energy access. Solar means a new dawn: brighter, cleaner, and greener.

Laxit Awla, CEO of SAEL, drew attention to the problem of stubble burning, a major cause of air pollution in North India. He said, “What farmers perceive as waste, we regard as valuable biomass fuel. By converting crop residues into clean energy through advanced biomass technologies, we can transform this environmental burden into a sustainable energy resource.” This highlights how innovation can turn environmental challenges into economic opportunities, especially for farmers.

D.V. Manjunatha, Founder & Managing Director of Emmvee, focused on land restoration and resilience against desertification, stating, “Clean energy is not just about reducing emissions; it’s about restoring balance.” His quote draws a direct link between renewable energy and broader environmental health.

Praveen Kakulte, CEO of POWERCON Group, focused on the sustainability challenges within renewable energy itself, particularly the disposal of fiber-reinforced plastics used in wind turbines and solar panels. He stressed, “Sustainability isn’t just a goal, but it’s our moral responsibility!” This call to action underscores the need for innovation in materials and stricter frameworks to prevent future environmental issues.

Dr. Miniya Chatterji, CEO of Sustain Labs Paris, brought attention to plastic pollution as a symptom of deeper systemic failure. She said, “Solving it requires more than just bans or cleanup campaigns; it calls for a shift in mindsets, policies, and skills.” This view highlights that real change demands education and collaborative efforts beyond simple regulatory actions.

From Apraava Energy, Mathew Oommen, Director – Operations, stressed the transformative power of solar energy. He said, “Solar power is one of the most transformative forces in the journey toward a sustainable future… Our 100 MW Veltoor solar project in Telangana stands as one of India’s best-in-class solar assets.” This underscores the role of solar projects in reducing emissions and advancing national renewable goals.

Mahesh Ramanujam, CEO of the Global Network for Zero, noted that sustainability is a systemic commitment, “embedded into every decision — from manufacturing floors to building blueprints.” His view connects environmental leadership with urban planning and resource management, essential as India grows rapidly.

Minal Srinivasan, Managing Director of Kesari Infrabuild, highlighted the importance of sustainable infrastructure: “Designing energy-efficient, resource-saving spaces… aligns growth with responsibility.” She urged collaboration between policymakers, businesses, and communities to promote green buildings powered by renewable energy.

Arvind Kumar, Founder of Exolar Energy, issued a strong call to action: “From awareness to action, it is time to go into action – where energy efficiency, climate responsibility, and clean technology become everyday habits.” His words reflect a sense of urgency and collective responsibility.

Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Chancellor of LPU, reminded that tackling plastic pollution requires “meaningful action… from industry and institutions to each one of us.” His emphasis on education, clean energy, and sustainable practices shows the role academic institutions can play in environmental stewardship.

Tanmoy Duari, CEO of AXITEC Energy India, reaffirmed his company’s commitment to clean energy: “We believe that by working together with governments, businesses, and individuals, we can create a future where clean energy powers our homes, industries, and communities.” His words highlight collaboration as a key driver for environmental progress.

The diversity of voices from these industry leaders highlights that environmental sustainability is a multifaceted challenge requiring integrated approaches. From cleaner energy generation and waste management to urban planning and education, the path forward involves multiple sectors and stakeholders working together.

A common theme is the recognition that technology alone is not sufficient; systemic changes involving policy reform, mindset shifts, and inclusive growth models are essential. Several quotes stress the importance of just and scalable transitions that consider vulnerable communities, showing that social equity is inseparable from environmental progress.

Innovation is key—whether in converting agricultural waste to biomass energy, finding alternatives to non-degradable materials, or designing climate-resilient infrastructure. Yet, many also warn that innovation must be accompanied by a strong implementation framework and regulatory discipline.

World Environment Day 2025 serves as a powerful reminder that protecting our planet is a shared responsibility transcending industries and individuals. The voices of India’s renewable energy and sustainability leaders reflect a deep understanding of the challenges ahead and a steadfast commitment to solutions that are innovative, systemic, inclusive, and impactful.

As they collectively emphasize, it is no longer enough to simply envision a sustainable future; bold implementation, collaboration, and continuous innovation are essential to turn these visions into reality. Only through such united action can India—and the world—ensure a livable, prosperous planet for current and future generations.