Cool it Down

In the last and final episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema brings together inspiring voices to explore the intersection of climate change, health, and sustainability.She engages in an enlightening and passionate conversation with actor and environmental advocate Dia Mirza, who shares her journey from childhood inspiration to championing collective action for a greener future.Alan Dangour from the Wellcome Trust delves into the connections between climate, health, and food systems, shedding light on the One Health approach and sharing personal reflections on nature and resilience.Finally, Bhumika Saraswati, another climate advocate, highlights the disproportionate health impacts of climate change on marginalized communities, emphasizing the urgent need for equitable solutions and collective action.Together, they offer practical tips, inspiring and innovative ideas and empowering insights to inspire both individual and collective responsibility in tackling the climate crisis.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema brings together two inspiring conversations with sustainability leaders Anirban Ghosh from the Mahindra Group and Swati Kalra, a sustainability champion from Accenture Development Partnerships. Together, they explore the intersection of business, personal responsibility, and the growing green economy. Anirban shares insights into balancing business growth with eco-conscious practices, while Swati delves into the rise of green jobs and practical advice for young professionals entering the field. This episode offers actionable steps for listeners to contribute to climate action and embrace opportunities in the evolving sustainable landscape.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode:https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this insightful episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema delves into the intricate relationship between agriculture and climate change with four passionate advocates for sustainable farming. With Timothy J. Krupnik, Regional Director, Sustainable Agrifood Systems Program, Asia and Country Representative, CIMMYT Bangladesh, the episode also explores the significant contributions of farming practices to greenhouse gas emissions, the challenges farmers face in adopting sustainable methods, and the potential of carbon farming as a new approach to mitigate climate change. (Note: I moved this to the top since Tim is the first speaker on the podcast. Let’s publish it in chronological order, as it is in the recording.) Shaik Imran Hussain Choudhary, Co-founder, Prakheti discusses innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture, emphasizing biodiversity, and the critical role of youth in climate action. He shares his experiences with Prakheti, focusing on helping farmers transition to sustainable practices and the importance of youth engagement in global climate policies.Satyajit and Ajinkya Hange from Two Brothers Organic Farms talk about their journey from banking to organic farming, highlighting the challenges and rewards of sustainable agriculture. They underscore the importance of consumer choices in promoting sustainable practices and offer advice for aspiring farmers.Together, these conversations emphasize the urgency of addressing climate impacts on agriculture and inspire listeners to support and engage in sustainable farming practices.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode:https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this compelling episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema brings together three inspiring voices in the climate action space. Ashish Beergi, a social entrepreneur, shares his journey from early environmental advocacy to innovative waste management solutions, emphasizing the power of community and youth in driving change.Kaushik Deb, Executive Director, Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago, India delves into India's clean energy revolution, discussing the importance of individual actions, disruptive innovations, and the transformative impact of clean energy on rural and urban lives.Abinash Mohanty from IPE Global reflects on the intersection of climate action and policy, highlighting insights from the recent COP29 conference and the development of India's climate vulnerability index. Together, these conversations underscore the critical role of grassroots initiatives, policy, and individual efforts in addressing climate challenges and inspire listeners to engage in sustainable solutions.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, host RJ Sayema delves into the transformative potential of the shared economy in waste management and sustainable fashion.She engages with Shekar Prabhakar, co-founder of Hasiru Dala Innovations, and Alfiya Khan and Sana, co-founders of Bombay Closet Cleanse, to explore innovative solutions in textile recycling and the importance of embracing secondhand fashion.The episode highlights the crucial role of waste pickers, the challenges and opportunities in recycling textiles, and practical steps for making secondhand shopping enjoyable and accessible. The conversation emphasizes consumer responsibility, community engagement, and the positive shift in attitudes towards sustainability and entrepreneurship in the recycling sector.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode:https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, Shruti Narayan, Regional Director at C40 Cities, and Anirudh Arun,Co-founder and CEO of BluSmart Fleet, delve into the transformative role of cities and individuals in driving climate action through e-mobility.Shruti discusses the critical importance of sustainable urban planning, the shift to electric vehicles (EVs), and the power of public transport, walking, and biking in reducing emissions. Anirudh shares insights into the evolution of e-mobility in India, BluSmart's innovative approach to clean ride-hailing, and the opportunities for young entrepreneurs in the sustainable mobility space.Together along with RJ Sayema, they explore the challenges and opportunities in building a greener future, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and personal responsibility in reducing carbon footprint.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema dives into the world of sustainable weddings with insights from sustainability expert Swati Singh Sambyal and green event planner Ashwin Malwade. Together, they explore how to celebrate love responsibly while minimizing environmental impact.Swati highlights the environmental challenges of Indian weddings, offering practical tips for waste management, embracing circular economy principles, and balancing tradition with sustainability. Ashwin shares his inspiring journey from marine conservation to planning low-waste weddings, detailing the challenges, triumphs, and cost-effectiveness of eco-friendly celebrations.Tune in for practical advice, innovative ideas, and inspiration to make weddings greener and pave the way for mindful, impactful celebrations.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, we delve into the power of storytelling and education in addressing climate change. Featuring insightful conversations with Radharani Mitra and Sonali Khan, RJ Sayema explores how narratives and playful learning can inspire action and foster climate consciousness.Radharani Mitra highlights the role of strategic communications, youth engagement, and popular culture in making climate issues relatable and actionable, advocating for optimistic stories that empower change. Meanwhile, Sonali Khan shares her experience in nurturing young minds through creative education, from the playful "Hawa Hawai" book to impactful campaigns like "Kachara Karo Zero, Bano Planet Ka Hero."Join us for an engaging discussion on how stories and education can transform complex climate challenges into opportunities for hope, action, and a sustainable future.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema explores the future of sustainable food with Chef Radhika Khandelwal and Dr. Jessica Fanzo. Chef Radhika shares her journey in sustainable cooking, offering practical tips to reduce kitchen waste and highlighting innovative ways to repurpose food scraps. Dr. Fanzo discusses the global challenges of food security, the link between dietary choices and climate change, and the role of governments in promoting healthier food systems. Together, they unpack the importance of reconnecting with food sources, embracing sustainable eating habits, and engaging in trends like plant-based diets and lab-grown meat to reshape the food industry for a greener future.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema engages with Pranab Ranjan, an expert on natural resource management from the Center from Land Governance and Dimgong Rongmei, Executive Director, Realm of Nature Based Actions to explore the intricate connection between indigenous communities and nature. Together, they delve into the role of traditional knowledge in biodiversity conservation, resource management, and addressing contemporary challenges like climate change.The conversation highlights the cultural ties communities have with nature, the potential of indigenous practices to inform urban living, and how they can inspire green entrepreneurship and social enterprises.They also discuss the importance of engaging younger generations in environmental stewardship to foster a more sustainable future.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode:https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this special episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema brings together three powerful voices shaping the conversation on climate action and sustainability with a focus on solar energy. Speaking to Sayema, Simarpreet Singh shares his journey as an entrepreneur, offering insights into embracing execution, imperfection, and humility while cultivating habits to reduce carbon footprint. He emphasizes finding joy in work, education, and meditation as pathways to sustainability and personal growth. Licypriya Kangujam, a 13-year-old climate activist, delivers a passionate plea for urgent action on the climate crisis. She shares her inspiring journey, experiences at global platforms like the UN, and her vision for climate justice, urging rich nations to take responsibility for their environmental impact. Professor Chetan Singh Solanki, the Solar Gandhi, discusses the transformative potential of solar energy in addressing climate change. He highlights the hidden costs of fossil fuels, the role of youth in the solar sector, and the importance of energy independence in achieving a sustainable future. Tune in to explore practical solutions, inspire action, and remind us that every step counts in the fight against climate change.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, discover how art and popular culture are driving climate action. RJ Sayema dives into the intersection of creativity, culture, and environmental advocacy with actor-filmmaker and social advocate Nandita Das, artist Atul Bhalla, and musician Kelsey Rae.Nandita Das highlights the power of art and storytelling in shaping public understanding of climate change, empowering youth through digital media, and promoting creative entrepreneurship for sustainable practices.Atul Bhalla reflects on how his experiences with diverse landscapes, especially the polluted Yamuna River, have influenced his artistic journey.Kelsey Rae shares moving stories from her performances, showcasing how music and recycled instruments can inspire awareness and hope, while highlighting the growing role of artists in inspiring climate actions.Through thought-provoking conversations, this episode explores how art can inspire change, engage communities, and contribute to a sustainable future.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode:https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, Rishika Reddy and Dr. Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad delve into the urgent need for sustainable packaging and its role in combating environmental challenges.Rishika shares the story behind the creation of The Mend, a sustainable packaging venture born during the pandemic, and discusses the hurdles of shifting consumer and business mindsets towards eco-friendly options.Dr. Gaikwad sheds light on the environmental impact of traditional packaging, particularly plastics, and introduces innovative alternatives such as pine needle-based paper and cactus biopolymers.Together, they explore the complexities of the circular economy, the balance between convenience and sustainability, and the future of biodegradable and smart packaging technologies.The episode also offers practical advice for aspiring sustainability entrepreneurs and emphasizes the collective power of individual actions in driving meaningful change.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode:https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, Aditi Mayer, Gigi Mathews, and Professor Parikshit Goswami come together to discuss the pressing issue of textile waste and sustainable fashion from diverse perspectives. Aditi shares her journey as a sustainable fashion advocate, touching on the influence of the Rana Plaza tragedy on her career, and underscores the role of cultural heritage in promoting mindful, eco-conscious choices.Gigi delves into the entrepreneurial aspect, exploring how innovative businesses and community involvement are crucial to addressing textile waste, especially in countries like India.Professor Goswami complements these perspectives by analyzing textile waste’s environmental impact and the cultural shifts needed in consumption.Together, they provide listeners with practical tips—from supporting local designers to starting ventures that balance social impact and profit—while underlining the collective responsibility we all hold in creating a more sustainable future.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.Host: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema chats with architects Marion Weiss, Michael Manfredi, and resilience expert Dr. Anshu Sharma about the powerful link between architecture, resilience, and climate action. They uncover how the building sector shapes global greenhouse gas emissions and the untapped potential of embodied energy and sustainable design.The discussion covers traditional building materials, evolving public spaces, and insights from past practices to inspire resilient architecture. They also spotlight opportunities for future architects and entrepreneurs to drive sustainable construction and tackle climate challenges with lasting solutions.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.Host: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema delves into the pressing issue of electronic waste (e-waste) with Veena Sahajwalla, a recycling and green manufacturing expert, and Mandeep Manocha, the co-founder of Cashify.Together, they explore the environmental and health impacts of improper e-waste disposal, the risks tied to informal recycling, and the promising innovations in this field, from e-waste micro-factories to Cashify's solutions for responsible recycling.The conversation sheds light on the role of sustainable entrepreneurship and responsible consumption in e-waste management, along with practical steps individuals and businesses can take to make a positive impact.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions via email at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.orgHost: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, RJ Sayema engages with Professor V. Srinivas Chary, Director of the Centre for Environment, Urban Governance, and Infrastructure Development, Administrative Staff College of India to explore the urgent challenges surrounding water management and climate change.They delve into critical topics such as non-revenue water, water footprints, the urban water crisis, and the vulnerabilities faced by low-income communities. The discussion highlights innovative solutions and entrepreneurial opportunities in the water sector.Snehal Verma, a first-generation entrepreneur and the founder and Director of NatureDots, joins the conversation to emphasize the importance of individual responsibility, collective action, and the role of social enterprises in addressing the global water crisis. She also speaks about the founding journey of NatureDots—her social enterprise dedicated to water sustainability.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to email us at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.Host: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, Pratim Roy and Supriya Sahu explore the intricate relationship between development, climate change, and community involvement. Pratim highlights the critical role of bees in ecosystems and their connection to climate change. He shares insights on entrepreneurship that empowers local communities and reflects on the journey of the Keystone Foundation, which he co-founded.The conversation underscores the vital roles of biodiversity and natural resource protection, with a special focus on the importance of bees in ecosystems.Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary with the Government of Tamil Nadu, who previously led the Department of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, emphasizes the need to shift focus toward protecting natural resources and highlights successful initiatives that have engaged local communities in sustainable practices. She shares insights from her extensive experience in civil service, particularly the importance of collaboration between governments, civil society, and local communities.Together, they stress the importance of partnerships with indigenous and local communities in fostering sustainable practices, drawing on their vast experience in entrepreneurship.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6jAdditionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to email us at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.Host: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, host RJ Sayema is joined by two experts, Rupa Nandy and Girish, for an insightful discussion on the future of public transport and its role in combating climate change.Rupa delves into the impact of rapid urbanization on transportation, stressing the need to prioritize public transport over private vehicles, while exploring the challenges of adopting electric buses and the opportunities for innovation.Girish shares his entrepreneurial journey with Metro Ride, highlighting the importance of last-mile connectivity, sustainability, and electric vehicles. Together, they discuss the cultural shifts required to embrace public transport and the value of learning from failure in building sustainable mobility solutions.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6j Additionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to email us at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org.Host: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State

In this episode of Cool It Down, we explore the deep connections between overconsumption, waste, and climate change. In conversation with RJ Sayema, Vimlendu Jha discusses the urgent need for a cultural shift towards personal responsibility in reducing consumption, while highlighting entrepreneurial opportunities in the circular economy and upcycling.Peepal Baba shares his journey of planting 25 million trees, and the vital role vegetation plays in cooling the planet and enhancing biodiversity. Finally, Saurabh Mehta, founder of BioQ, discusses the challenges and rewards of creating sustainable products in the stationery industry, focusing on balancing eco-friendliness, durability, and affordability. Together, these speakers offer a hopeful perspective on how individuals and businesses can make a lasting impact on the planet.We value your feedback! Please participate in this survey to share your thoughts on the episode: https://forms.office.com/e/8YCL8vyv6j Additionally, we’d love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to email us at coolitdown@in.bbcmediaaction.org. Host: RJ SayemaCreated by: BBC Media Action IndiaSupported by: U.S. Department of State