This World Book Day, we celebrate literature that not only entertains but enlightens us about one of the most pressing issues of our time environmental sustainability. India’s journey toward a greener future has inspired authors to pen down remarkable works that document challenges, showcase innovations, and propose sustainable solutions. Here’s our curated list of five must-read Indian books that spotlight sustainability efforts and green entrepreneurship in India.
1. “India’s Green Startups” by Jayant Sinha and Sandiip Bhammer
Published by Juggernaut Books under Chiki Sarkar’s leadership, this groundbreaking work features a foreword by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani. Co-authored by Jayant Sinha, former Union Minister of State for Finance and Civil Aviation who introduced India’s first net zero legislation as a private member’s bill in 2021, and Sandiip Bhammer, Founder and Managing Partner of Green Frontier Capital, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of India’s green innovation ecosystem.
“India’s Green Startups” chronicles the journeys of 14 pioneering entrepreneurs who have successfully combined business acumen with environmental stewardship to create meaningful impact. The book showcases how these visionaries are addressing the global climate crisis while driving India toward a sustainable economy. Former cricketer and angel investor Mahendra Singh Dhoni praised the book, noting that it “highlights the bold ideas shaping a sustainable tomorrow for India’s youth.”
Startup Spotlight: The book profiles innovative entrepreneurs across various sectors including renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and clean transportation who are leading India’s startup-driven green revolution.
2. “The Great Indian Nature Trail” by Bijal Vachharajani
Vachharajani’s engaging narrative takes readers on a journey through India’s diverse ecosystems while highlighting the indigenous knowledge systems that have sustained them for centuries. The book features interviews with several green entrepreneurs who are reviving traditional ecological practices through modern business models. From biodegradable packaging companies to organizations promoting native seed conservation, this book showcases how India’s startups are building businesses that respect natural boundaries.
Startup Spotlight: The book profiles Phool.co, which collects temple flowers that would otherwise pollute rivers and upcycles them into incense sticks and biodegradable packaging materials.
3. “Ecological Footprints: An Indian Perspective” by Sunita Narain
A seminal work by one of India’s foremost environmentalists, this book presents a comprehensive analysis of India’s environmental challenges and provides a roadmap for sustainable development. Narain examines policy frameworks and grassroots innovations that are driving India’s green revolution. The book dedicates an entire chapter to emerging green startups that are tackling waste management, clean energy, and sustainable agriculture.
Startup Spotlight: The book explores Banyan Nation’s innovative plastic recycling technology that helps global brands use more recycled content in their products while reducing waste in Indian cities.
4. “Rewilding India: A Blueprint for Our Future” by Prerna Singh Bindra
Wildlife conservationist Bindra presents a compelling case for protecting India’s biodiversity as a crucial component of sustainability. The book explores the intersection of conservation and economic development, featuring innovative startups that are creating livelihoods through conservation efforts. Bindra demonstrates how protecting natural habitats is not just an environmental imperative but also an economic opportunity.
Startup Spotlight: The book highlights Kabadiwalla Connect, which leverages technology to integrate informal waste collectors into the formal recycling economy, improving waste management while providing better livelihoods.
5. “The Circular Economy: Indian Innovations” by Rashmi Sinha
Sinha’s groundbreaking work explores how Indian businesses are embracing circular economy principles to reduce waste and maximize resource efficiency. The book showcases startups that are redesigning products and processes to eliminate waste, keep materials in use, and regenerate natural systems. With practical examples and actionable insights, this book serves as both inspiration and guide for those interested in sustainable business models.
Startup Spotlight: The author features Carbon Craft Design, which upcycles air pollution particles into beautiful carbon tiles for construction, effectively turning pollution into a resource.
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