In this episode of Cool It Down, Pratim Roy and Supriya Sahu explore the intricate relationship between development, climate change, and community involvement. Pratim highlights the critical role of bees in ecosystems and their connection to climate change. He shares insights on entrepreneurship that empowers local communities and reflects on the journey of the Keystone Foundation, which he co-founded.

The conversation underscores the vital roles of biodiversity and natural resource protection, with a special focus on the importance of bees in ecosystems.

Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary with the Government of Tamil Nadu, who previously led the Department of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, emphasizes the need to shift focus toward protecting natural resources and highlights successful initiatives that have engaged local communities in sustainable practices. She shares insights from her extensive experience in civil service, particularly the importance of collaboration between governments, civil society, and local communities.

Together, they stress the importance of partnerships with indigenous and local communities in fostering sustainable practices, drawing on their vast experience in entrepreneurship.

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Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, host RJ Sayema is joined by two experts, Rupa Nandy and Girish, for an insightful discussion on the future of public transport and its role in combating climate change.

Rupa delves into the impact of rapid urbanization on transportation, stressing the need to prioritize public transport over private vehicles, while exploring the challenges of adopting electric buses and the opportunities for innovation.

Girish shares his entrepreneurial journey with Metro Ride, highlighting the importance of last-mile connectivity, sustainability, and electric vehicles. Together, they discuss the cultural shifts required to embrace public transport and the value of learning from failure in building sustainable mobility solutions.

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Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, we explore the deep connections between overconsumption, waste, and climate change. In conversation with RJ Sayema, Vimlendu Jha discusses the urgent need for a cultural shift towards personal responsibility in reducing consumption, while highlighting entrepreneurial opportunities in the circular economy and upcycling.

Peepal Baba shares his journey of planting 25 million trees, and the vital role vegetation plays in cooling the planet and enhancing biodiversity.

Finally, Saurabh Mehta, founder of BioQ, discusses the challenges and rewards of creating sustainable products in the stationery industry, focusing on balancing eco-friendliness, durability, and affordability. Together, these speakers offer a hopeful perspective on how individuals and businesses can make a lasting impact on the planet.

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Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool it Down, we dive deep into the critical connection between plastic and climate change, exploring the long-lasting impact of plastic on the environment, particularly the dangers of single-use plastics. We discuss strategies like reducing, reusing, and recycling plastic, while examining the role of governments, consumers, and businesses in adopting alternatives.

RJ Sayema speaks to Matthew Jose, founder and CEO of Paperman who shares insights on waste management and recycling, including how his company helps brands reduce plastic use through an Extended Producer Responsibility initiative. He also addresses the economic value of recycling, the importance of better waste management infrastructure, and the challenges of tackling landfill waste.

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Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool it Down, we speak with climate optimist and sustainability champion Aakash Ranison, alongside Saket Dave, Founder and CEO of Forplanet Ingredients (formerly Wastelink), and Dr. Kalpana Sastry, an agricultural scientist.

Aakash shares his journey, highlighting his beliefs about climate change and the urgent need for action. Dr. Sastry explains how food waste begins at the farm level and continues through the processing and consumption stages. The discussion also explores how changing food habits impact climate change and the importance of returning to traditional practices.

Aakash underscores the power of optimism and belief in driving positive environmental change. Saket discusses how food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and outlines how his company transforms food waste into animal feed, reducing its carbon footprint. He also offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs addressing climate-related challenges and suggests practical ways individuals can help reduce food waste.

We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6j

Additionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to email us at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.

Host: RJ Sayema

Created by: BBC Media Action India

Supported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, we dive into the intersection of fashion and climate change, highlighting the roles that manufacturers and consumers play in making sustainable choices. Shruti Singh from Fashion Revolution shares insights into Fashion Revolution’s efforts to drive systemic change within the industry and the growing role of social media in shaping clothing consumption habits.

We also hear from Bhavini Parikh, founder of Bunko Junko, as she recounts her journey from textile artist to entrepreneur. Bunko Junko is celebrated for its upcycling of textile waste into unique fashion pieces, promoting both environmental sustainability and women's empowerment. Bhavini emphasizes the importance of using sustainable materials, eco-friendly production methods, and collaborating with local communities. Her passion for sustainable fashion and women’s empowerment is inspiring as she works to create a greener world.

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Host: RJ Sayema

Created by BBC Media Action India

Supported by U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool it Down, we explore the entrepreneurship opportunities that the energy efficiency sector offers, including livelihoods in the space and energy-efficient behaviors. We discuss green financing, green consulting, and training options to support entrepreneurs on their journey. Additionally, we examine the connection between energy efficiency and climate change, how individuals can adopt energy-efficient practices at home, and how to create businesses around them.

We speak with Madhura Joshi from E3G, who discusses the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy and highlights the importance of energy efficiency. She explains how individual actions, like choosing energy-efficient appliances, can save energy and reduce emissions.

We are also joined by Sishir Garemella, who explains that while solar energy can be complex, it is becoming more accessible. Increased awareness and simplification are driving its adoption. Solar energy can help address environmental challenges and expand electricity access. Entrepreneurs can explore opportunities in solar product manufacturing, and carbon markets among others.

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Host: RJ Sayema

Created by BBC Media Action India

Supported by U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool it Down, we confront one of the most urgent threats to our health and planet: air pollution. Hosted by RJ Sayema, we’re joined by two powerhouse voices – U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, and Professor Richard Peltier from the Aerosol Lab at UMass Amherst – to dive deep into the challenges of air pollution at scale.

But it’s not just talk. We take you on a journey through real-world projects that are making a tangible difference. From local innovations to global solutions, we explore how communities, individuals, and corporations can work together to reduce emissions and create healthier cities.

This isn’t just about pointing out the problem – it’s about providing actionable steps that can start making a difference today.

Participate in this survey and answer these simple questions to tell us your feedback about this episode of Cool it Down: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6j

Also, we would love to hear your inputs and suggestion. Do email us at: coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org

Host: RJ Sayema

Created by BBC Media Action India

Supported by US Department of State