At the WION Pulse session on “Planet Pulse: Green Growth and Climate Divide – The Business of Climate: Profit or Planet”, discussions underscored the complex intersection of economic growth and climate responsibility.

Erik Solheim, Former Minister of Climate and the Environment of Norway, highlighted the economic promise of renewable energy, noting India’s potential for energy independence through solar, while ONGC’s Ratnesh Kumar emphasised the realities of rising energy demand and the continued role of coal in India’s transition. Chantal Theron, an educator, further stressed the importance of embedding climate awareness early within education systems.

Against this backdrop, Dr. Ashok Khosla reframed the climate crisis as a question of equity. Developing nations, including India and several African countries, continue to bear a disproportionate share of climate impacts despite limited historical responsibility. This raises a critical challenge: how can global systems be restructured to ensure that those who need development the most are not penalised for pursuing it?

Equally significant was his emphasis on climate literacy.

Biodiversity loss, poverty, and ecological degradation are outcomes of flawed development paradigms, demanding a fundamental shift in education and societal values.

As climate vulnerabilities intensify, aligning economy with ecology is no longer optional, it is essential to building a just and resilient future.