In the run-up to World Environment Day, the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) convened the Air Quality Action Forum (AQAF) Phase II at the UN House in New Delhi on June 1, 2026, bringing together policymakers, environmental experts, and community leaders to discuss grassroots solutions to India’s air pollution challenge. The event marked the launch of a UNEP guidebook for Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), encouraging communities to take a more active role in reducing emissions, promoting clean practices, and building public awareness on air quality management.
Senior dignitaries on the dais included Yudhistir Govinda Das, Trustee and Country Director of Communications for ISKCON India, UNEP India Head Dr. Balakrishna Pispupati, and Dr. S.D. Attri, Technical Member of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) of India’s Ministry for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.
Yudhistir Govinda Das highlighted the spiritual, cultural, and human psychological dimensions of environmental stewardship. Drawing on ISKCON’s long-standing commitment to sustainable living, tree-planting drives, natural farming initiatives, and lifestyle practices that encourage harmony with nature, he underscored the need for a values-based approach to environmental protection. His remarks resonated with the forum’s focus on community-led action, demonstrating how faith-based organizations can complement scientific and policy interventions by inspiring behavioral change and collective responsibility toward the environment.
The participation of ISKCON India at this important UNEP platform reflected the growing recognition of civil society and spiritual organizations as partners in environmental action. Through its outreach programs and advocacy for sustainable lifestyles, ISKCON has consistently encouraged individuals and communities to adopt practices that reduce ecological footprints while fostering respect for all living beings.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/iskcon-india-highlights-faith-based-environmental-action-at-unep-forum/
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