The 2nd BSG Sustainability Conclave was held on 26th April 2023 at the Chinmaya Mission Auditorium, New Delhi. This Conclave was centred around the theme “Goals to Action: Through Sustainable Human Behaviour”.
Nearly 4,000 Guests and BSG members attended the conclave both offline and online, including media. The audience included people from all walks of life including eminent educators, government officials, corporate officials etc.
The Conclave commenced with a rousing rendition of the song titled “Step Forward” by the Student Division members of BSG. This was followed by a screening of a special film titled ‘Towards 2030: Achieving the SDGs through Sustainable Human Behaviour’. This film showcased about how the various ‘BSG for SDG’ initiatives are bringing forth the power of one individual and helping create a great transformative impact in the society.
There was also a panel discussion focussed on the theme “Goals to Action: Through Sustainable Human Behaviour”. The Panellists were Dr. Vibha Dhawan, Dr. Radhika Batra, Mr. Anshu Taneja and Mr. Gaurav Shah. This Panel Discussion was moderated by Ms. Shruti Nangia, All India YWD Chief.
Dr. Vibha Dhawan was also the keynote speaker for the Conclave. She urged everyone to reflect deeply and take action. She also shared about the sustainability practices of the previous generations, and why we need to change our present mindset and behaviours which have veered away from sustainability. “When we talk of sustainability, one of the lessons is you have to coexist. You have to manage with less when it is available. Live in an ecosystem where everyone is important.” she said.
In the panel discussion, the panellists spoke about their journey in their fields of work, the challenges they faced and the ways in which sustainability can be advanced. also shared about how the warm welcome by BSG members made them feel special and no less than any celebrity.
The Conclave also introduced the Carbon Footprint Calculator in the ‘BSG for SDG’ Mobile App. This feature will enable every user to measure their impact on the environment, under three areas of plastic, fuel, and electricity. This feature is slated to go live on the mobile app in the next week. Also on display was the Seeds of Hope & Action: Making the SDGs a Reality exhibition which was inaugurated by all the Panellists. Members of BSG explained the exhibition panels with great enthusiasm and vigour. Guests & members alike also pledged to live peaceful & sustainable lives by writing their determinations on a special pledge wall.
BSG Chairperson Mr. Vishesh Gupta underscored the importance of adopting sustainable human behaviour as a way of life. He said “The basic definition of sustainability refers to “meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” To achieve this goal, a fundamental reassessment of our way of existence as individuals, as societies, and as a human civilization is required. Towards that end, we must take concrete action in our everyday life. And for this purpose, adopting sustainable human behaviour as a way of life will be crucial.”
The Conclave was widely covered by media. A few clips and photographs are attached.