Sunita Narain is a leading Indian environmentalist, currently serving as the Director General of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and the editor of its fortnightly magazine, Down To Earth. With over four decades of experience, she has been at the forefront of advocating for sustainable development, climate justice, and the environmental concerns of the Global South. Sunita will attend the fifth edition of the Dharitri Youth Conclave as the chief speaker and address the next generation of environmental leaders on the urgent need for action on climate change. Sunita’s work focuses on integrating environmental issues with social justice, particularly in marginalised communities. She has contributed extensively to air pollution control, water management, sanitation, and climate change, using research and public advocacy to push for transformative and inclusive policies.
Her works in India, especially on rainwater harvesting, river conservation, and air quality improvement, have influenced national policies and led to real-world changes such as the switch from diesel to natural gas in New Delhi’s public transport system. Sunita’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, the Stockholm Water Prize, and inclusion in TIME 100 (2016) as one of the world’s most influential people. Her advocacy for climate justice has been recognised globally, and she continues to champion the cause of environmental policies that prioritise both equity and sustainability.
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