Small steps, big impact

Sanjay Srivastava On Strategic Solutions For A Sustainable Tomorrow

Sanjay Srivastava is a highly accomplished environmentalist with over 33 years of experience in managing environmental and social risks, while advancing nature-based solutions to address global sustainability challenges. Currently based in Vienna with the World Bank, he plays a key role in shaping strategies that align scientific insight with policy action. In an exclusive interaction with GT reporters, Sanjay Srivastava highlights multidisciplinary approaches to tackle the most pressing environmental issues.

Striking a balance
I have always espoused the ‘triple bottom line’ approach, where economic progress is intertwined with social inclusion and environmental protection. This balance is essential for long-term sustainability and to ensure that development benefits are equitably distributed across generations. Let me tell you about a project we did in Zambia, the world’s second largest producer of copper. The mining activities had caused high levels of lead in children’s blood, which may cause learning disabilities and harm their future. So, we collaborated with a doctor from Germany and set up camps to treat the affected children. To mitigate the impact of industrial activities, we must always consider public health and environmental degradation issues.
 
Saving water is a must
In Delhi, a major issue we are trying to work with is water scarcity. Almost 60% of water is displaced or contaminated before it reaches users. Similarly, in Karnataka, 80% of the water supply was getting wasted as the supply network was almost a 100 years old. While these problems can be solved by government initiatives, citizens must also contribute by making changes in their daily lives. Each one of us should aim to conserve water.

Plastic is a menace
Plastic pollution is another pressing environmental crisis we continue to face, despite all the laws. You must be aware that 12 million tonnes of plastic goes into the oceans every year, and only 9% is recycled. Plastic pollution is a resource consumption issue, so I urge you to rely on scientific solutions, rather than emotional reactions. It’s important for us to bring systemic changes in production and consumption of plastics and recycle wherever possible.

Pride in our forests
Did you know that as per Indian law, if you cut one tree, you must plant two? We have stringent laws that require compensation to the government for any deforestation that happens due to development. We must take pride in our forests, as they are important for biodiversity. Nearly 70% of wildlife has been lost to us since 1970 due to deforestation. The key is to raise awareness that forests and biodiversity are essential to food security. But, there has been a shift. When I pursued environmental engineering, nobody understood what it was about. Now environmental conservation is a global agenda.

Message for Amitians
Trust yourself. Think globally, and use the knowledge and resources available from all over the world, and learn to innovate locally. Use your knowledge of AI and other advanced tools to create sustainable solutions, and set examples for others to follow.

Interview conducted by: Abhiraj Srivastava, XI B Advika Singh & Sargun Kalsi, Alumna
AIS VKC Lko

Global innovation talks at Amity

Amity and Dürr Group Partner to Enhance Research And Industry Training

ATPC | AUUP

Fostering global industry-academia collaboration, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, welcomed a high-level delegation from the Dürr Group, Poland, on March 11, 2025. The corporate group is renowned for its leadership in automation, environmental technology, and sustainable manufacturing solutions.
The delegation, led by André Schlotter, managing director and CFO, Dürr Group, engaged in strategic discussions aimed at enhancing research, internships and placements, and industry-driven training programmes. The group’s strong foothold in European markets, along with its growing presence in India and China, positions it at the forefront of technological innovation.
The visit underscored Amity’s commitment to expanding its global footprint and providing career opportunities worldwide. Prof (Dr) Balvinder Shukla, vice chancellor, AUUP, welcomed the delegation and highlighted how Amity integrates international exposure with the Indian value system, preparing graduates to succeed in a global job market while remaining grounded.
In their discussions with Amity’s heads of institutions, Dürr’s delegation focused on Amity’s diverse academic offerings, interdisciplinary research excellence, and robust placement opportunities. It also toured state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Amity Centre of Artificial Intelligence (ACAI) and Amity Drone Centre (ADC). Dr Anjani Kumar Bhatnagar, head, Amity Technical Placement Centre (ATPC), facilitated the discussions. Anil Sharma, senior manager, ATPC, too, played a key role in setting the stage for the collaboration.
In fact, the visit also marked the homecoming of one of Amity University’s distinguished alumni: Priyank Kaushik (B.Tech, Class of 2010), who is serving as a director of IT operations at Dürr Group. A warm and engaging interaction between Amity officials and Priyank Kaushik made the event more special.
The event concluded with a ceremony honouring the delegation for their commitment to foster international collaboration.