Sewa International’s Green Summit: Action for a Sustainable Future

Houston, TX, (April 29, 2025): Sewa International hosted the Green Summit: Small Steps, Big
Impact virtually on April 26, drawing over 150 attendees. The summit, featuring panelists from
prominent environmental organizations, emphasized practical actions toward building a
sustainable future.
The first panel focused on “Clean Energy and Ocean Health”. Moderator and host Rakhi Israni,
Sewa International’s Vice President of Government Relations, reflected on Earth Month,
reminding attendees of the deep connection between humanity and the planet. Laura Bartsch,
Strategic Advisor at the Carbon League, and Stewart Sarkozy-Banoczy, Managing Director and
CEO of the World Ocean Council, led the conversation on clean energy innovation and ocean
conservation.

Laura Bartsch, architect and designer, said achieving 100% clean energy is possible today,
though significant policy challenges remain. Bartsch expressed strong support for offshore wind
energy, noting that Rhode Island—where she lives—was the first U.S. state to install ocean-
based wind turbines. Bartsch highlighted the importance of local initiatives, citing New York
City's congestion pricing as an example. She explained that not only has traffic been reduced, the
policy also supports the adoption of cleaner energy options like electric and hydrogen-powered
buses, funded through the revenue generated. She stressed that small changes, like adding bike
lanes, can shift behaviors and build sustainable cities. Bartsch concluded by encouraging a focus
on policy over politics.
CEO of the World Ocean Council, Sarkozy-Banoczy, stressed the oceans' critical role in carbon
absorption and climate regulation. He explained that industries tied to the sea, such as shipping
and fishing, must go beyond minimizing harm to actively restoring ecosystems. Warning against
corporate green-washing and blue-washing, he urged consumers to scrutinize environmental
claims critically, ensuring that initiatives drive meaningful, systemic change.
Young leaders, Ira Gramopadhye and Lipika Devara, offered some practical insights, including
essential composting tips, emphasizing simple methods to reduce household waste. Lipika
Devera led a discussion on sustainability challenges, featuring contributions from Jennifer Cole

and Rashmi Prabhu, who addressed waste management improvements and the dangers of fast
fashion. Rohit Deshpande underscored the impact of community volunteerism through Sewa’s
SERVE program’s initiatives, including cleanups and tree planting efforts.
The summit concluded with a call to action. Panelists encouraged individuals to adopt small but
consistent changes, such as eliminating bottled water use, to create larger environmental impacts
over time. They stressed that youth engagement is vital, urging young leaders to raise awareness,
interact with policymakers, and stay persistent in advocating for environmental stewardship.