Megha Phadkay’s approach to sustainability is rooted in a deep understanding of the intersection between business growth and environmental impact. As a leading advocate for climate justice, Megha’s work revolves around challenging conventional models, urging companies to align their strategies with long-term sustainability goals. In our 'Nine Questions With' series, Megha shares her journey from environmental activism to corporate advocacy, discussing the importance of collaboration, equity, and systemic change in shaping a sustainable future.

From birdwatching in her childhood to shaping climate policies as an Environmental Lawyer, Megha Phadkay’s journey is one of purpose and passion. After studying law at ILS Law College, India, Megha shifted to climate policy, driven by a desire to protect ecosystems through systemic change.

Her work with Pune International Centre on decentralized solar microgrids and carbon sequestration policies is helping the region move toward net carbon neutrality by 2050. Megha’s climate justice advocacy also led her to the Greenpeace International Climate Justice Camp in Lebanon, where she connected with diverse communities facing climate challenges.

As a TEDx speaker and UNICEF Youth Representative, Megha is dedicated to empowering young voices and embedding sustainability into business practices.

Read on to explore Megha’s insights on how sustainability can be redefined as a practice rooted in both solutions and joy, and how small, actionable steps can lead to lasting, impactful change. Her perspective on climate justice and the path to meaningful progress will inspire C-suite leaders to drive systemic transformation.

Team Reblue: Hi Megha! Your journey is incredibly diverse – from legal studies at ILS Law College to climate policy work. Could you take us back to the beginning? What was that pivotal moment or realization that first ignited your passion for sustainability?

Megha Phadkay: My love for sustainability began with biology and wildlife. As a child, I spent hours birdwatching and dreaming of becoming a conservationist. But as I grew older, I realized protecting ecosystems wasn’t just about science; it was about policies and people. I saw the power of law to drive change, so I became an Environmental Lawyer. Getting involved in local environmental campaigns showed me how advocacy could push policy changes affecting entire communities. Climate policy, for me, is a way to impact millions, not just isolated groups. Climate change is a shared challenge, but it also offers a chance to work together in ways we’ve never done before. Sustainability, to me, is about helping people love nature and not see it as an obstacle to development.

"The first step is to make sustainability a core value, not just a checklist item. Businesses thrive when they align their goals with societal and environmental needs."

Team Reblue:  You’ve had such a fascinating career path – from Climate Policy Researcher to TEDx speaker. What strategic insights would you share with C-suite executives looking to integrate meaningful sustainability initiatives into their core business strategy?

Megha Phadkay: First, make sustainability a core value, not just a checklist item. Businesses thrive when their goals align with societal and environmental needs. Set realistic, measurable targets, like net-zero commitments or sustainable supply chains. Transparency is key—stakeholders appreciate honesty about progress. Also, engage with younger voices and grassroots movements; they often bring innovative ideas. Sustainability should be embedded in every decision, from supply chains to workplace culture. My advice? Think long-term, act boldly, and let sustainability drive innovation, not just compliance.

Team Reblue: Your work with indigenous communities on climate justice is truly inspiring. You've been selected for incredible opportunities like the Greenpeace International Climate Justice camp. Could you share a transformative moment from your advocacy that really shaped your understanding of climate justice?

Megha Phadkay: One of the most powerful moments was at the Climate Justice Camp in Lebanon, where a 16-year-old activist from the Philippines shared how rising sea levels were eroding her ancestral land. For her, climate change wasn’t an abstract concept—it was a daily reality. It made me realize how unevenly climate change impacts people, especially those who’ve contributed the least. That moment deepened my understanding of climate justice—it’s not just about mitigating climate change, but addressing the inequities it creates.

"Transparency is critical—customers and stakeholders appreciate honesty about progress and setbacks."

Team Reblue: Working to make the Pune Metropolitan Region net carbon neutral by 2050 is no small feat! Can you give us a peek behind the curtain? What innovative strategies are you and your team exploring to make this ambitious goal a reality?

Megha Phadkay: I was working with a think-tank in Pune- Pune International Centre, where I could work towards this goal, and I am incredibly grateful to them. It was challenging, exciting, and a huge learning curve! I worked with a team of researchers analysing the current climate-policies of Pune, and suggesting amendments. One of our key focuses was building decentralized solar microgrids to reduce reliance on fossil fuels—an important step toward energy independence. I also developed a carbon sequestration policy, mapping green spaces across Pune and recommending ways to expand and conserve them. We explored integrating green infrastructure like urban forests and vertical gardens to make the city more sustainable. Collaboration has been key—getting policymakers, citizens, and businesses on the same page is crucial for making progress.

"Sustainability isn't just good PR; it's good business. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that sustainability works best when it's integrated, not isolated. It's not about slapping a 'green' label on a product or starting a random tree-planting drive. It's about embedding sustainability into every decision—supply chains, product design, and even workplace culture."

Team Reblue: You've been selected as a UNICEF Youth Representative. Why do you believe young voices are so critical in driving climate action and policy?

Megha Phadkay: Young voices are the heartbeat of the climate movement. We bring urgency, creativity, and a deep sense of ownership—because at the end of the day, it’s our future we’re fighting for. As a UNICEF Youth Representative, I saw firsthand how young leaders can bring fresh energy to policy making, making it more inclusive and forward-looking. For five days, we dove deep into Maharashtra’s State Action Plan for Climate Change—India’s only state-specific climate policy—analyzing its strengths and gaps. Our suggestions weren’t just theoretical; they came from our lived experiences and real stories of impact. Honestly, those five days taught me more about the true effects of climate change than any book ever could. That’s the power of youth-driven solutions.

When young people lead, they often challenge outdated practices and push for bold, transformative ideas. But it doesn’t stop there. By involving young voices, we inspire movements and create ripple effects that influence communities and leaders alike. It’s how real change happens.

Team Reblue: How do you see artificial intelligence potentially accelerating—or complicating—our sustainability efforts?

Megha Phadkay: I am not an expert in Artificial Intelligence, but I can tell you with certainty that AI has incredible potential to accelerate sustainability efforts. It can optimize energy use, predict climate risks, and even improve biodiversity monitoring. For example, AI-powered systems can help design smarter cities and identify carbon hotspots for targeted interventions. However, it’s not without challenges. The energy demands of data centers powering AI models can counteract its benefits if we’re not careful. Moreover, without ethical guidelines, AI could worsen inequalities by prioritizing profit-driven solutions over community needs. The key is balancing innovation with regulation—ensuring AI technologies serve both the planet and its people.

"Collaboration is everything. Getting policymakers, citizens, and businesses on the same page has been our secret weapon. It's amazing how much progress you can make when everyone works together toward a shared goal."

Team Reblue: From your expert vantage point, what current trends in climate policy are giving you hope? Or conversely, what developments are keeping you up at night?

Megha Phadkay: What gives me hope is the growing momentum around renewable energy adoption—countries and businesses are finally recognizing it as an economic and environmental win-win. Similarly, the global youth-led climate movement has been a game-changer, pushing leaders to act faster and more decisively. However, what keeps me up at night is the implementation gap. Many ambitious policies lack robust

mechanisms for enforcement. Additionally, the rise of climate misinformation poses a significant threat to building public consensus. We need more people from diverse streams, bringing in cohesive and multidisciplinary solutions.

Team Reblue: In the challenging world of sustainability work, what moments make it all worth it? What keeps you motivated and inspired?

Megha Phadkay: It’s the small moments, like seeing a community light up with solar power or watching young people I’ve mentored launch their own environmental projects. These moments remind me that change is possible, even if it happens slowly. The belief that we’re part of something bigger keeps me going. Recently, I trained as a Climate Fresk Facilitator, and it reminded me that change happens when we come together, inspire curiosity, and make sustainability accessible and fun.

"Think long-term, act boldly, and let sustainability drive innovation, not just compliance."

Team Reblue: Let's dream big – when you think about the legacy you want to leave behind, what does that look like? What impact do you hope to have on future generations and our planet?

Megha Phadkay: If there’s one thing I want people to take away, it’s this: you don’t need a cape to be a hero. I once thought protecting the planet meant grand gestures—saving rainforests or cleaning oceans. But I’ve learned it’s about everyday choices: carrying a reusable bottle, supporting local green spaces, or planting a tree that could one day host a million fireflies. If I can inspire people, especially young ones, to find their “superpowers” in sustainability, I’ll consider it a win. Imagine a world where we all play our part, one step at a time—that’s the legacy I hope to leave. Sustainability isn’t just for scientists or activists; it’s for everyone. Whether you’re a chef, artist, gamer, or dog-walker, there’s always a way to care for the planet through what you love. For me, it started with biology, rescuing stray animals, and sketching wildlife. Now, it’s about policies, ecosystems, and communities. My dream is to help others find their connection to sustainability, so together, we can make things better while preserving the joy of what we’re protecting. Taking care of the planet doesn’t mean giving up fun; it means getting creative. Want to reduce waste? Host a swap party. Want cleaner air? Plant a rooftop garden and add fairy lights. My goal is to make sustainability about solutions, joy, and discovery. Lastly, sustainability isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.

Photo courtesy Megha Phadkay