1M1B (One Million for One Billion), in collaboration with Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail  (ABFRL), has introduced the Sustainability Accelerator 2024, marking the programme’s second edition

Formally inaugurated at the Sustainability Policy Roundtable: Empowering Youth for Net Zero in New Delhi, the initiative aims to cultivate India’s largest green workforce by engaging with the youth. The programme will be rolled out across schools nationwide, with a particular emphasis on social welfare and tribal schools, aiming to heighten awareness and youth involvement in combating climate change. Through action-oriented missions, students will receive skill-building opportunities and engage in the development of sustainable solutions, including prototypes and immersive internship experiences in rural communities.

The first edition of the Sustainability Accelerator Programme, introduced in April 2023, garnered participation from over 6,000 students and 800+ CBSE schools across India. Notably, the top 20 students were provided with workplace experiences and internships at ABFRL facilities, along with a six-day immersion visit to Bengaluru. This year’s edition seeks to institutionalise the ecosystem towards Climate Action by nurturing youth contributions, leveraging technology for a greener planet and fostering mentorship with global leaders to foster sustainable innovations.

The curriculum of the Sustainability Accelerator Programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience, emphasising Climate Action and equipping them with practical skills applicable in the workplace. By integrating Climate Action into the educational framework, the initiative aims to promote sustainability and social responsibility among students, preparing them to address climate challenges in areas such as food, water, waste, and energy. The programme’s mentorship-driven approach connects students with industry experts to develop sustainable solutions and secure internships and project opportunities in the sustainability sector.

Naresh Tyagi, Chief Sustainability Officer of Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail and Chair of the Sustainability Accelerator, expressed optimism about engaging students from diverse backgrounds and regions, emphasising the role of youth in shaping a greener future. Meanwhile, Manav Subodh, Founder of 1M1B, highlighted the programme’s objective to mobilise 1 million youth by 2030, aligning with the broader mission to impact 1 billion people and foster balanced prosperity globally.