IGF 2024 DC-Environment Climate Catastrophe: Translating Awareness into Action

    Roundtable
    Duration (minutes): 90
    Format description: In this session, we aim to spark a dialogue on pressing issues such as humanity's stance on environmental responsibility in the face of technological progress. We will explore topics such as the overall well-being of the planet, individuals' level of engagement in environmental conservation efforts, innovative methods for promoting awareness and encouraging action, and the internet's role in preserving the environment. Therefore, a 90-minute roundtable discussion will afford us sufficient time to delve deeply into these subjects, facilitating a productive exchange of ideas and the generation of actionable insights. We want participants to feel at par with the speakers, providing equal opportunity to put forth their points and add value to the discourse.

    Description

    Our ongoing study has highlighted a critical concern: nearly 100% of participants are aware of the issues surrounding unnatural climate change and environmental degradation, yet there is a notable lack of action on their part to address these challenges and contribute to environmental conservation efforts. This session aims to explore strategies for bridging the gap between awareness and action, focusing on methods to effectively translate environmental awareness into tangible steps towards environmental stewardship. In the session, critical questions will be addressed regarding humanity's approach to environmental responsibility amidst technological advancement. The discussion will delve into whether the current focus solely on human needs neglects the broader welfare of the planet. Participants will evaluate what contributions have been made to environmental preservation and whether these efforts align with the scale of ecological challenges. Moreover, the session will scrutinize whether the predominant emphasis on environmental safety is misdirected, prompting a reevaluation of strategies to ensure sustainable coexistence with our planet. We will also discuss innovative approaches to raising awareness, empowering individuals, and fostering collective action towards environmental stewardship through digital platforms and online communities.

    We have planned for robust online participation through a dedicated online platform, ensuring equal participation opportunities for remote attendees. Onsite and online moderators will facilitate discussions, to ensure a cohesive experience for all participants. We will incorporate live polls, breakout sessions, and a dedicated Q&A segment to foster interactive dialogue between all stakeholders and participants.

    Organizers

    Dr. Rajendra Pratap Gupta, Co-Chair, IGF - Dynamic Coalition on Environment, Intergovernmental Organization, Asia Pacific Group
    Ms. Mevish P. Vaishnav, Group Chief Operating Officer, Digital Health Associates, Private Sector, Asia Pacific Group
    Mr. Saptarshi Gargari, Senior Project Associate, Health Parliament, Private Sector, Asia Pacific Group

    Speakers

    1. Dr. Vibha Dhawan, Director General, The Energy and Resources Institute, Technical Community, Asia Pacific Group
    2. Dr. Rajendra Pratap Gupta, Co-Chair, IGF-Dynamic Coalition on Environment, Intergovernmental Organization, Asia Pacific Group
    3. Mr. Eric Solheim, Vice Chair The China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED) | Former Minister of Climate and the Environment of Norway | Former UN Environment Executive Director and Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, Intergovernmental Organization, Western European and Others Group
    4. Mr. Osama Manzar, Founder & Director, Digital Empowerment Foundation, Civil Society, Asia Pacific Group
    5. Dr. Karen DeSalvo, Chief Health Officer, Google, Private Sector, Western European and Others Group

    Onsite Moderator

    Dr. Rajendra Pratap Gupta

    Online Moderator

    Ms. Mevish P. Vaishnav

    Rapporteur

    Mr. Saptarshi Gargari

    SDGs

    12. Responsible Production and Consumption
    13. Climate Action
    17. Partnerships for the Goals


    Targets: We aim to contribute to SDG Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG Goal 13 (Climate Action) by generating actionable inputs for individual, community and government levels. We also contribute towards SDG Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering collaborations between the private sector, civil society, multilateral bodies and governments to advance environmental sustainability and translate awareness into action in the digital age.