Sustainability should be viewed as a part of everyday life rather than a purely theoretical concept while, said Prof (Dr) K G Suresh, Director of the India Habitat Centre and former Vice Chancellor of Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication. He was addressing the 2nd Yuva Sustainability Conference on the theme “Beyond COP30: Empowering Youth for Climate Action”, held online on 13 December 2025 under the Yuva Sustainability Internships Programme organised by Voices of Bharat: Yuva for Sustainability.
One of the core beliefs shared by Prof Suresh was that sustainability is not a one-time activity. According to him, planting trees, using green energy, or speaking about climate change has little meaning if care for nature is not continued. He explained how the India Habitat Centre itself stands as a model of sustainability. Although constructed in the early 1990s, it continues to follow green practices and has achieved high GRIHA ratings. This example demonstrated that sustainability works best when it is properly planned and consistently practiced. He strongly emphasised that sustainability demands long-term commitment and responsibility rather than temporary actions.
One of the strongest ideas highlighted during the session was the difference between planting a tree and nurturing a tree. Prof. Suresh observed that tree plantation has become more of a fashion today. Trees are planted during events, photographs are taken, and they are soon forgotten. He shared that when he revisits institutions and asks about trees planted earlier, most people are unable to give any information.
He also shared a positive example from Raipur, where guests are not asked to plant a new tree every time. Instead, they are shown the same tree they planted earlier, which is being properly maintained. This practice creates a strong sense of responsibility. Another idea that left a deep impression was planting trees in memory of loved ones. When a tree becomes a living memory, people tend to care for it like a family member.
From a student’s perspective, there was strong agreement with Prof Suresh’s view that planting alone is not enough and that nurturing is essential. This idea encouraged reflection on personal behaviour, especially the tendency to seek quick appreciation. Sustainability, however, requires patience, sincerity, and dedication. Prof Suresh also stated that nurturing nature is an endless process, a thought that resonated deeply.
The session also addressed the impacts of climate change in India, including floods in Rajasthan, cyclones in Kerala, and the melting of Himalayan glaciers. Despite India contributing less to global carbon emissions, the country is facing severe climate-related challenges. This reinforced the understanding that climate change is not a distant future issue but a reality of the present.
The session proved highly meaningful for students and youth. Prof Suresh stressed the idea of “catch them young,” suggesting that environmental responsibility must begin early. He emphasised that youth have the power to bring change when guided effectively. Colleges and universities, he suggested, should motivate students to adopt trees, villages, or community spaces. He further highlighted that the true purpose of communication is to bring about a change in attitude, behaviour, and mindset, and that awareness without action holds little value.
Overall, Prof Suresh’s address conveyed that sustainability is rooted in consistency, care, and responsibility. It is not about performing an action once, but about continuing it over time. The session inspired deeper thinking about the role of young citizens and students, reinforcing the belief that even small actions, when carried out sincerely and consistently, can create a significant impact. As youth, the responsibility lies not only in discussing sustainability but in practicing it in everyday life.
The writer is a student of BCA, Shanti Institute of Technology, CCS University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.