EDITORIAL
As the world grapples with adverse effects of climate change, transitioning towards cleaner energy and adaptation measures has become a priority, opined Vibha Dhawan, director General, TERI. Addressing the curtain raiser event for the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) to be inaugurated by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar tomorrow in the national capital, Dhawan, underscored, “As we get ready for the 23rd edition of the World Sustainable Development Summit, I look forward to thought-provoking discussions, innovative solutions, and a profound exploration of the pivotal role played by visionary leaders in the advancement of sustainable development on a global scale. TERI is privileged to lead this dialogue, cultivating groundbreaking solutions and strategies for a future that is both sustainable and equitable.” She stated, “Regardless of whether a country is developed or developing, it is imperative for the world to acknowledge that climate change is not merely a reality but a shared one. As the world grapples with adverse effects of climate change, transitioning towards cleaner energy and adaptation measures become a priority.”
Manjeev Singh Puri, former diplomat and distinguished fellow, TERI, said, “WSDS is an excellent platform for exchange of ideas, knowledge, and best practices, propelling us towards the realization of SDGs and the Paris Agreement objectives through enlightened and collaboratively guided endeavours. WSDS, led by TERI, is charting a course towards a future where sustainability and equity converge, crafting a compelling narrative for the well-being of our planet.”
Highlighting the pivotal role of WSDS in advancing discussions on sustainable development and climate action, Shailly Kedia, curator, WSDS, and senior fellow, TERI, emphasised, “The world has crossed the half-way point for implementation of the sustainable development goals which are severely off-track. The challenges associated with climate change and sustainable development are complex and interconnected and require visionary leadership. Time for climate action and sustainable development is running out, hence, leadership by various stakeholders at all levels is key. Polycrisis demands polycentric leadership. In this context, the World Sustainable Development Summit 2024 will be held under the umbrella theme of Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice.”
Joining the VP at the inaugural ceremony will be Prime Minister of Guyana Brigadier (Retd) Mark Phillips and Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. Ministers from Spain, Kiribati and Fiji are expected to join, according to a media statement on Monday.
The annual flagship multi-stakeholder event organised by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) since 2001, WSDS is the only independently convened international summit on sustainable development and environment based in the Global South. WSDS 2024 will be convened under the umbrella theme of ‘Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice’.
Considering the outcomes on loss and damage, global goal on adaptation, climate finance and the mandate for just transitions at COP28, WSDS will see diverse perspectives on climate justice from leaders of the small island developing states, Latin America, South Asia, and developed countries. WSDS 2024 will highlight several crucial themes, each contributing to a comprehensive discussion on sustainable development, the statement said.
These themes encompass nature and ecosystems, integrating sustainable development, addressing the energy trilemma, climate action, adaptation and resilience, and sustainable consumption and lifestyles. Collectively, these themes form the backbone of the Summit, providing a comprehensive framework for addressing the multifaceted aspects of sustainable development. The discussion with the global leaders are expected to create with an ambition of a more sustainable and equitable world for present and future generations, the statement added
