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Picture Courtesy:  https://www.teriin.org/event/world-sustainable-development-summit-2024

Context: The World Sustainable Development Summit in New Delhi, inaugurated by the Vice-President of India, offers an opportunity to discover sustainable living and the efficient use of natural resources.

World Sustainable Development Summit

• The World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS), organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), is a crucial annual event that brings together key stakeholders to tackle the complex challenges of sustainable development and climate justice.
• This year, the 23rd edition, held in New Delhi from February 7-9, 2024, focuses on the theme "Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice."
• The summit acts as a platform for diverse voices to be heard. Leading representatives from international organizations, governments, businesses, research institutions, civil society, and youth come together to share knowledge, experiences, and innovative solutions.

Delhi Sustainable Development Summit (DSDS) ●Established in 2001 by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), initially known as the Delhi Sustainable Development Summit (DSDS), the event later evolved into the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS). ●Its core purpose is to facilitate knowledge exchange on all aspects of sustainable development, bringing together diverse stakeholders from various sectors and regions.

Key Discussion Topics

• Integrating Sustainable Development: This focuses on mainstreaming sustainability principles into various aspects of life, from economic policies to individual lifestyles.
• Nature-Based Solutions: Exploring how natural ecosystems and resources can be harnessed to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability.
• Adaptation and Resilience: Building the capacity to cope with and recover from climate change impacts and other environmental disruptions.
• Sustainable Consumption and Lifestyles: Encouraging responsible consumption patterns and advocating for more sustainable lifestyles.
• Addressing the Energy Trilemma: Balancing energy security, affordability, and environmental sustainability in energy production and consumption.
• Climate Action: Discuss concrete strategies and actions needed to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

The summit goes beyond podium discussions by offering engaging formats like:

• Ministerial Addresses: High-level insights from government leaders on their sustainability commitments.
• Youth Plenary: Empowering young voices and showcasing their contributions to a sustainable future.
• Women Leadership Addresses: Highlighting the critical role of women in achieving sustainable development.
• CEO Forum: Engaging business leaders in discussions on sustainable practices and responsible investments.
• Expo: Showcasing innovative technologies and solutions from various stakeholders.
• Special Events: Interactive sessions and workshops for deeper exploration of specific topics.
• Thematic Tracks: Dedicated sessions focused on key areas like energy, water, food, and waste management.

The WSDS aims to be a "constructivist" platform, it seeks to:

• Reinforce commitment: Encourage stronger commitments from all stakeholders at various levels to advance sustainability and climate action.
• Enhance ambition: Inspire bolder goals and more ambitious actions towards achieving a sustainable future.
• Drive action: Facilitate the translation of ideas and discussions into concrete actions on the ground.

Conclusion:

• World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2024 aims to facilitate meaningful discussions, collaboration, and initiatives towards achieving sustainable development and climate justice on a global scale, emphasizing the importance of effective leadership and inclusive action.

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Sustainable Development Goals: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/sustainable-development-goals

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. India relies heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to climate change and air pollution. How can India accelerate its transition to renewable energy sources while ensuring energy security and affordability for its growing population, especially in rural areas?