The Sustainability Entrepreneurship Roundtable 2024
July 19, 2024
SPJIMR hosted the sustainability entrepreneurship roundtable at the Mumbai campus in collaboration with Leap Cities. The event gathered a total of 34 participants which included 17 entrepreneurs, nine investors/industry experts, four moderators, and four notetakers. The roundtable facilitated discussions on sustainable finance, green technology, and the circular economy. Entrepreneurs and experts shared their insights, challenges, and success stories, creating an atmosphere of collaboration to explore sustainable business practices and innovations for a greener future.
Highlights
- Entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs discussed issues and challenges in their sector as per the theme and the critical role entrepreneurship plays in driving sustainable development.
- Thematic discussions: Experts from different sectors provided innovative solutions and strategies to overcome sustainability challenges. They shared their insights on the latest trends in sustainability. Seasoned investors offered an investor perspective on the issues raised.
- Networking sessions: Attendees had the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential collaborations, and expand their professional networks.
One of the key takeaways from the event was the importance of collective efforts and innovative thinking in creating a sustainable future. The roundtable emphasised the need for entrepreneurs to integrate sustainability into their core business strategies and actively contribute to environmental and social well-being.
Table-wise key takeaways
Table 1: Solid waste management and circular economy
Key problems identified:
- Waste creation and management
- Regulatory and policy issues
- Ecosystem perspective
- Financing and funding
Proposed solutions:
- Education and community participation
- Model city plans
- Alignment of incentives
- Sustainable financing mechanisms
Table 2: Solid waste management (plastic waste)
Key problems identified:
- High volume of plastic waste
- Low recycling rates
- Informal recycling sector
- Lack of awareness and segregation
Proposed solutions:
- Enhanced policies and enforcement
- Eco-friendly alternatives
- Increased awareness
- Technological advancements
- Design stage interventions
Table 3: Water supply and security
Key problems identified:
- Lack of regulation
- Fragmented governance
- Public awareness
- Infrastructure maintenance
Proposed solutions:
- Enhanced regulation
- Public awareness campaigns
- Infrastructure contracts
- Innovation and solutions
- Strategic focus
- UPI model for water
- Seed fund for innovation
Table 4: Agri tech
Key problems identified:
- Inconsistent funding
- Small-scale operations
- Soil degradation
- Fragmented farmlands
- Carbon emissions
Proposed solutions:
- Financial support
- Crop diversity
- Feed management
- Community mobilisation
- Technological integration
- Women empowerment
- Education and awareness
Quote from the event
A participant summarised the event aptly in his quote, “Roundtables like these can be a catalyst for big changes. Let Mumbai be an example of how collaboration and innovation can drive sustainability.”
The Sustainability Entrepreneurship Roundtable 2024 was a significant step towards fostering a community of sustainable entrepreneurs committed to making a positive impact. The event was a testament to SPJIMR’s dedication to promoting sustainability and supporting entrepreneurs who are driving change in this critical area.