In a CISL Conversation, Shruti Kapila and Lindsay Hooper discuss history and politics in climate negotiations, India's environmentalism, optimism versus caution, and individual versus collective

In a CISL Conversation, Shruti Kapila and Lindsay Hooper discuss history and politics in climate negotiations, India's environmentalism, optimism versus caution, and individual versus collective action. They also cover moving beyond Western-centric narratives, leadership capabilities, the role of business, and anticipating COP28.

The University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) partners with business and governments to develop solutions for a sustainable economy, focusing on net zero, nature protection, and inclusive societies. Find more resources: https://www.cisl.cam.ac.uk/resources/

Opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not represent an official CISL or University of Cambridge position.

Ovais Sarmad joined the United Nations Climate Change secretariat (UNFCCC) on September 1, 2017. He supports the Executive Secretary in managing the secretariat and its staff, advising on

Ovais Sarmad joined the United Nations Climate Change secretariat (UNFCCC) on September 1, 2017. He supports the Executive Secretary in managing the secretariat and its staff, advising on strategic operations and organizational development.

Previously, Mr. Sarmad served 27 years at the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Geneva, including as Chief of Staff. Prior to IOM, he worked in London's private and public sectors, qualifying as a Chartered Management Accountant (ACMA) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (GCMA). He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Osmania University, India.

This talk was presented at an independently organized TEDx event. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx.

Anna leads Finland's successful initiative against food waste, a story rooted in the nation's unique characteristics. Finland's cold, vast landscape and small population (5.5 million) have

Anna leads Finland's successful initiative against food waste, a story rooted in the nation's unique characteristics. Finland's cold, vast landscape and small population (5.5 million) have cultivated a practical, collaborative society, essential for tackling complex challenges.

Her team unites diverse stakeholders—including the food industry, retailers, and various ministries—to work collectively. Their model encourages voluntary actions focused on profitability and sustainability, while also spreading awareness. The key learning is that effective solutions must reflect food waste's multi-faceted nature.

This innovative approach was presented at a TEDx event. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx.

Dr. Sylvia Earle, a renowned biologist, explorer, and TED Prize recipient, champions ocean conservation. As founder of Mission Blue and DOER Marine Operations, and a National Geographic Explorer

Dr. Sylvia Earle, a renowned biologist, explorer, and TED Prize recipient, champions ocean conservation. As founder of Mission Blue and DOER Marine Operations, and a National Geographic Explorer in Residence since 1998, she highlights the oceans' critical role in life and the devastation caused by humans. Dr. Earle was the first female chief scientist of U.S. NOAA, holds a PhD from Duke, and has authored 230 publications.

With over 7500 hours of diving experience and 195 publications, Dr. Earle has received more than 100 national and international awards, including the 2009 TED Prize and Time Magazine’s First Hero for the Planet. This talk was given at a TEDx event. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx.

Alexandros Washburn, former Chief Urban Designer for New York City, asserts that successful urban design must prioritize

Alexandros Washburn, former Chief Urban Designer for New York City, asserts that successful urban design must prioritize pedestrians. He shared this insight during a TEDx speech in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Washburn is the author of the new book, The Nature of Urban Design, released in Fall 2013.

The book can be ordered from Amazon or purchased at your local bookstore.

Dr. Helen Riess is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. She directs the Empathy & Relational

Dr. Helen Riess is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. She directs the Empathy & Relational Science Program, conducting research on the neuroscience of emotions and empathy. Dr. Riess is also Co-Founder, Chief Scientist, and Chairman of Empathetics, LLC, and a faculty member at the Harvard Macy Institute for Physician Leaders. Her career focuses on the patient-doctor relationship and teaching, with her empathy training approach proven effective in randomized controlled trials.

This TEDxMiddlebury talk, titled "The power of empathy," explores these insights. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events designed to share TED-like experiences.

Eleni Psyhouli delves into veganism, a growing lifestyle, examining its origins—whether a new nutritional trend or a response to consumerism—and its appeal, particularly to younger

Eleni Psyhouli delves into veganism, a growing lifestyle, examining its origins—whether a new nutritional trend or a response to consumerism—and its appeal, particularly to younger generations.

A 20-year taste journalist, Eleni Psychouli studied French literature and piano, translated 20 books, and collaborated with sculptor Takis. She has authored two books, contributed to lifestyle magazines, and hosts TV shows like Master Chef Junior. Her site is www.pirouni.gr. Eleni explores the social and historical dimensions of nutrition, examining how food reflects the human experience.

This talk was given at an independently organized TEDx event. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx.