Access to information today is both an advantage and a responsibility, especially for young people navigating the climate crisis. Emphasising this, Mr Anshu Gupta, Magsaysay Awardee and Founder of Goonj and Gram Swabhimaan, in his recorded address at the 3rd Yuva Sustainability Conference and Awards 2026, called for a shift from awareness to action. He highlighted that environmental degradation affects all living beings, urging youth to take collective ownership and act at the right time. Real change, he noted, comes from individual accountability and the willingness to work together.
Building Momentum: Expanding Youth Engagement Across India
Across India, youth led sustainability efforts are steadily gaining momentum, supported by platforms that enable learning and engagement. Reflecting on this growth, Kalyan Singh Kothari, Co-Convenor of Yuva for Sustainability, acknowledged the role of founders and partners in sustaining the initiative. He spoke about the organisation’s expanding internship programmes and its sustainability podcast, both of which are helping deepen engagement and extend the reach of sustainability conversations.
Creating Spaces for Dialogue and Recognition
Creating spaces for such exchange remains central to building a stronger sustainability movement. Naina Gautam, Advisor, Yuva for Sustainability, underscored the importance of dialogue and collaboration.
The message was consistent across voices, that while awareness is important, it is action that drives change. For the young participants in the room and beyond, the call was not just to engage with sustainability, but to lead it.
Lavanaya Sinha is pursuing Bachelors in Journalism and Mass Communication at JIMS Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.