On 12 December 2024, the picturesque Hilton Mauritius Resort hosted the prestigious World Sustainability Forum, a gathering of global thought leaders, innovators, and changemakers dedicated to advancing sustainable practices. Among the esteemed speakers was Dr Krishna Athal, the Founder and Executive Director of YUVA Mauritius and YUVA India, who delivered an inspiring address on the topic, “Building a Sustainable Business for a Greener Future.”

A Visionary in Sustainability and Youth Empowerment

Dr Athal is a well-known advocate for youth empowerment and sustainable development, with YUVA being a pioneering force in creating positive societal change. Under his leadership, YUVA has spearheaded numerous initiatives focused on education, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability in Mauritius and India. His invitation to the World Sustainability Forum underscores his influence in the global sustainability landscape.

Building a Greener Future Through Sustainable Business

In his address, Dr Athal emphasised the critical role businesses play in combating climate change and fostering a sustainable future. He shared insights on how companies can align profitability with environmental responsibility by adopting innovative practices that reduce carbon footprints, minimise waste, and promote renewable energy solutions.

“A sustainable business is not just about compliance or greenwashing,” Dr Athal noted. “It’s about embedding sustainability into the core strategy, operations, and culture of an organisation. This approach not only benefits the environment but also enhances resilience and long-term profitability.”

Key Takeaways from Dr Athal’s Speech

1. Integrating Sustainability into Business Models: Dr Athal highlighted case studies of successful businesses that have integrated sustainable practices, proving that green initiatives can drive innovation and open new market opportunities.
2. The Role of Youth in Sustainability: As a staunch advocate for youth engagement, Dr Athal stressed the importance of empowering young people to lead sustainability efforts. “The youth are not just future leaders; they are today’s changemakers,” he remarked.
3. Collaboration Across Sectors: He called for stronger partnerships between governments, businesses, and civil society to create scalable and impactful solutions for global environmental challenges.

Engaging the Audience

Dr Athal’s dynamic and thought-provoking presentation resonated deeply with the audience, which included policymakers, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates from around the world. His pragmatic solutions and visionary ideas sparked engaging discussions and inspired attendees to take actionable steps toward building greener businesses.

YUVA’s Role in Driving Sustainability

YUVA’s initiatives in Mauritius and India have been instrumental in addressing pressing environmental and social issues. From tree-planting campaigns to educational programs on sustainable living, YUVA has demonstrated how grassroots efforts can lead to significant impacts. Dr Athal’s leadership has been pivotal in driving these efforts, making him a fitting representative at the forum.

A Call to Action

Dr Athal concluded his speech with a powerful call to action: “Let us redefine success not by the profits we make, but by the positive impact we create for our planet and future generations. Together, we can build a sustainable business ecosystem that prioritises the well-being of people and the environment.”

As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, voices like Dr Krishna Athal’s serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration. The World Sustainability Forum 2024 not only highlighted the urgency of sustainable practices but also showcased the innovative solutions and leadership necessary to achieve a greener, more sustainable future.