Environmental Sustainability: Future Trends, Challenges, Approaches, Consequences, And Solutions for Sustainable Development Growth in India

Abstract

Environmental sustainability in India is poised at a critical juncture, shaped by dynamic interactions among urban expansion, climate vulnerability, resource depletion, and policy innovation. This study investigates emerging trends such as the integration of circular economy principles, renewable energy scalability, blockchain-based environmental monitoring, and AI-driven ecological oversight. Challenges include urban heat islands, waste management inefficiencies, agricultural residue burning, and river pollution—particularly in the Ganges. The paper analyzes socio-economic and ecological consequences of inaction, including biodiversity loss, intensified health risks, and compromised water security. It also explores approaches like Mission LiFE, Aravalli afforestation, Clean Ganga, waste-to-wealth valorization, sustainable urban planning exemplified by Palava City, and CSR-informed frameworks. Solutions focus on policy enhancement, decentralized infrastructure, technology adoption, community engagement, and green finance. India’s distinctive demographic and developmental context demands a holistic, multi-stakeholder strategy to advance sustainable development in alignment with SDGs.