Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has announced the extension of the submission deadline for the Ideas4LiFE ideathon from September 15, 2024, to October 15, 2024. Speaking at IIT Bombay, Yadav emphasised the need for developed economies to embrace sustainable ecologies and called for heightened environmental awareness among citizens.

The Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the Maharashtra Environment Department, organised the 'Ideas4LiFE' event at IIT Bombay, aiming to inspire innovative environmental solutions. The event saw active participation from 1,200 students, research scholars, and faculty members from various educational institutions in Mumbai.

Yadav highlighted the government's commitment to sustainable development and the critical need for an ecologically conscious development model, warning of the risks of rising temperatures and biodiversity loss. He also noted India's environmental achievements, such as surpassing renewable energy targets nine years ahead of schedule and implementing the Soil Health Card initiative. Addressing global issues like food waste, Yadav called for innovative solutions to preserve nature and reduce waste.

He concluded by inviting students to contribute ideas to the ideathon, urging them to integrate ecological balance into development strategies. The Ideas4LiFE ideathon focuses on seven key themes: save water, save energy, reduce waste, reduce e-waste, say no to single-use plastics, adopt sustainable food systems, and adopt healthy lifestyles. (ET)