The Godrej Enterprises Group has a reason to be happy about the ending plastic pollution theme of World Environment Day this year. They are already plastic negative.
Speaking on the occasion, Tejashree Joshi, Head of Environmental Sustainability, Godrej Enterprises Group, acknowledges that becoming plastic negative is no small feat. She points out that such milestones result from sustained effort and are not merely a badge of honour but a reminder of the responsibility that comes with them. Joshi says it feels great to have contributed meaningfully, but stresses that this achievement also demands continuous commitment to sustaining those ambitions.
She adds that as companies scale up, they must remain aware of their plastic footprint. According to her, it is vital to reduce plastic usage and manage the waste, which is inevitably generated, in a responsible manner, ensuring it doesn’t end up polluting the environment.
Overcoming roadblocks
When asked about the enablers and barriers in achieving ambitious sustainability goals, Joshi identifies mindset as the biggest obstacle. She believes that sustainability is not a one-time project but a continuous journey that requires both persistence and perseverance. Organisations must be ready to evolve and improve constantly.
Joshi explains that setting ambitious goals is essential because they offer direction and purpose. However, she stresses that the journey—marked by short-term and mid-term milestones—is just as important as the end goal. She notes that even during lean periods, progress is possible if the vision remains strong and policies continue to evolve supportively. According to her, without ambitious targets, companies lack the momentum to make meaningful progress.
Start small, start smart
For individuals starting their environmental journey, Joshi advises beginning with small yet consistent actions. She says it is both easy and difficult as it requires a mindset shift, but every small act matters. She likens each act to a drop in the ocean, eventually building collective impact.
For organisations, especially smaller ones, she suggests not being overwhelmed by the enormity of sustainability. Joshi recommends identifying material issues specific to their operations and focusing on those areas first. In her view, it is unnecessary—and often counterproductive—to try tackling everything at once.
Message to youth
Looking ahead, Joshi addresses the younger generation, highlighting that they have an unprecedented advantage with easy access to data and information. She encourages young people to be more aware of their choices and to demand accountability from producers and systems alike.
She adds that every consumption choice should be made with an understanding that resources must sustain over generations. In her words, the younger generation must use their knowledge to drive meaningful, incremental changes as consumers.
Three guiding thoughts
When asked to summarise her philosophy on sustainability, Joshi offers three key reflections. First, she believes sustainability is everyone’s responsibility—no one is exempt. Second, she views it as a matter of survival for humanity in the face of accelerating climate change. And third, she underscores the duty we owe to future generations. These, she says, are the bottom lines of sustainability.
