Inspired by Dr. Anish Shah’s talk during 3rd Hasmukh Shah Memorial Lecture where he explained the potential of embracing green steel, renewable energy, and EVs, the following blog explores how we can become the first generation to achieve sustainability by turning challenges into opportunities for a thriving future.
The climate crisis has shifted from a distant concern to an immediate threat, fuelling widespread anxiety, especially among younger generations. Headlines warn of rising sea levels, wildfires, heatwaves, and global famines. A recent global survey of 10,000 young people paints a concerning picture—more than half believe humanity is doomed, and a third are hesitant to have children.
But here’s the question: can this anxiety be the catalyst for the change we desperately need?
This climate anxiety is real, and it’s easy to see why. When faced with constant reports of environmental disasters, it can feel like we’re the last generation who will witness a liveable planet. I’ve been there myself, despite my background in environmental science. However, with the data now available, my perspective has evolved. In reality, we may not be the last generation—we may be the first generation to take meaningful steps toward true sustainability.
The idea that we are the “last generation” is misleading. Instead, we should see ourselves as pioneers—capable of creating a world where economic growth and environmental sustainability coexist. While it’s tempting to think our ancestors lived in perfect harmony with nature, this is a myth. Yes, their environmental footprint was smaller, but life was marked by high child mortality, poverty, and harsh living conditions. We cannot simply return to the past in our quest for sustainability.
Sustainability is not just about reducing our environmental impact—it’s about improving the quality of life for everyone, now and in the future. We’ve made incredible strides in reducing child mortality, poverty, and illiteracy. But, these gains have come at a cost: natural resource depletion, ecosystem destruction, and fossil fuel dependence. The key is finding balance—continuing to improve human well-being while protecting the planet.
Despite the doom and gloom, recent data offers hope. Several countries, including the UK, the US, and Germany, have proven that economic growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment. In fact, while global CO2 emissions are still rising, per capita emissions peaked a decade ago and are now declining. This shift suggests that decoupling growth from emissions is possible. (María A. González-Álvarez, Antonio Montañés, 2023).In particular, the global transition away from coal is a powerful indicator of progress. Solar and wind energy, once viewed as fringe technologies, are now both viable and affordable. The cost of solar power has fallen by 99.8% since 1970, while battery storage and electric vehicles have become far more accessible (Fraas, Lewis. (2014). Low-Cost Solar Electric Power). In fact, sales of petrol and diesel cars have peaked, while electric vehicle sales continue to rise. These advances show that technology can lead us toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
As the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, India plays a critical role in the global sustainability equation. Yet, India is also emerging as a leader in renewable energy. The Indian government’s ambitious plan to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 signals a major commitment. With solar energy prices in India now among the lowest in the world, the country has a unique opportunity to lead the way in clean energy (Ministry of Power, GOI). To support this cause government has started many initiatives such as
- The National Green Hydrogen Mission
- PM-KUSUM
- PM Surya Ghar
- PLI schemes for solar PV modules
Furthermore, India’s agricultural sector is making strides to reduce deforestation pressures. Technological advances have significantly improved crop yields, enabling the country to produce more food on less land. This is essential in a country of over a billion people, where feeding the population while protecting ecosystems is a delicate balance.
We must begin to view sustainability not as a sacrifice but as an opportunity. This is not just about saving the planet—it’s about creating a world where energy is clean, abundant, and affordable for everyone. It’s about reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, which are subject to volatile market conditions and geopolitical tensions. It’s about designing healthier, more livable cities, as seen in places like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, where cycling infrastructure has transformed urban life.
Instead of focusing solely on the challenges, we need to spotlight progress. Individuals, companies, and entire countries are making real strides toward sustainability. These successes need to be celebrated and emulated. The data shows that sustainable development is not only possible but already happening—and it is within our power to accelerate this momentum.
We stand at a pivotal moment in the history of our planet. Our generation has the opportunity to do something unprecedented: to build a sustainable world where both thrive. We have the potential to be the first truly sustainable one. Technological innovations, smart policy changes, and a collective shift in mindset can lead us toward a future where economic prosperity and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. Let’s choose to be the generation that turns the tide and transforms the world. Together, we can shift the narrative from crisis to opportunity, from climate anxiety to climate action.
Written by
Dr Sonia Singh Thadani,
Assistant Director, GES
Reference
Fraas, Lewis. (2014). Low Cost Solar Electric Power. 10.1007/978-3-319-07530-3.
González-Álvarez, María A. & Montañés, Antonio, 2023. CO2 emissions, energy consumption, and economic growth: Determining the stability of the 3E relationship ,” Economic Modeling , Elsevier, vol. 121(C).
Ministry of Power, GOI : 500GW Nonfossil Fuel Target