For his efforts in steering the Godrej Group towards a sustainable future by incorporating eco-friendly practices across sectors, chairman and managing director of Godrej Industries Nadir Godrej was recognized as a Green Business Titan at the 11th Earth Care Awards held on January 23, 2024 at the National Centre for the Performing Arts. Accepting the award on behalf of the entire Godrej team, he noted it was "a reflection of their tireless efforts and commitment to protect the planet we live on…We put our people and the planet above profits.” "This recognition is attributed to his strategic efforts in guiding the Godrej Group towards a sustainable future through the incorporation of good and green eco-friendly practices across diverse sectors,” stated the Awards’ page on their social media account.
Nadir Godrej (center) with officials of the 11th Earth Care Awards
As is his wont, Godrej articulated his thoughts in a 1,250+ word poem at the function. Excerpts: "What could be a proper goal?/ Now the UN has a lengthy list,/ So in recounting, some would be missed!/ So I will focus on just three/ That I think would be the key/ For all the others to fall in place/ And enable us to win the race./ Good health through perfect sanitation,/ Environment and education./ All of these can be seen/ In our program Good and Green./ All industry should play a role /In the carbon neutral goal.”
At the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2023 Godrej had articulated the importance of intergenerational environmental responsibility (see "Mangroves preserved,” Events and Personalities, Parsiana, March 21-April 6, 2023). Though the Godrej Group’s efforts at mangrove conservation in Vikhroli along the west bank of the Thana Creek commenced in the 1940s, the commitment was formalized in 1985 with the establishment of the Soonabai Pirojsha Godrej Foundation.
Started in 2008, the Earth Care Awards are a joint initiative of the JSW Group and The Times of India to recognize and champion efforts towards mitigation of and adaptation to climate change. Their aim is to "recognize the work of individuals, organizations and communities that are leading the way in combating climate change, from reducing their carbon footprints to developing innovative technologies and initiatives,” states their website.
As Godrej versified: "It is no longer climate change/ Within a tolerable range./ A crisis is what it’s about/ With fires, floods as well as drought./ Every week a constant blast,/ Far worse than seen in the past./ If we must, we will adapt/ Prevention though would be more apt.” F. J.