Telangana Drives Climate Innovation with ‘1.5 Matters’ Launch

The global climate action movement, 1.5 Matters, was officially launched in Telangana, marking a transformative step in India’s journey towards sustainability. Spearheaded by 1M1B (One Million for One Billion), this ambitious initiative aims to restrict global warming to within 1.5°C, in line with the Paris Agreement, by fostering collaboration between governments, corporations, academia, and citizens.

The launch event, held at T-Works, Hyderabad, brought together over 10,000 citizens, along with Telangana’s state leaders, corporate executives, and climate innovators, signaling the state’s commitment to becoming a model for climate leadership.

Telangana’s Role in the Climate Action Movement

Telangana’s Hon’ble Minister for IT, Industry & Commerce, Shri Duddilla Sridhar Babu, emphasized the state’s determination to avoid the environmental pitfalls seen in rapidly urbanizing regions. He noted that 1.5 Matters would help build a robust climate talent pool and empower the state’s youth as global climate advocates.

“This is more than a movement; it’s a coordinated effort to create actionable solutions,” said Manav Subodh, Curator of 1.5 Matters. The initiative introduces three key pillars:

1. Action-Oriented Campaigns: Converting awareness into measurable, science-based targets.
2. Leadership Forums: Facilitating cross-sector collaboration among corporate and sustainability leaders.
3. Sustainability Badge System: A certification framework for tech campuses, recognizing environmental excellence.

Key Achievements and Future Goals

At the heart of this initiative is the 1M1B Green Skills Academy, established in December 2023 in Telangana. Five outstanding youth representatives, trained through this program, will represent the state at the 1M1B Activate Impact Summit at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

The platform also aims to:

• Build a climate talent pipeline of 10 million young professionals.
• Mobilize businesses towards net-zero goals.
• Foster strategic partnerships to scale sustainability efforts.

Why 1.5 Matters

The movement launches at a critical juncture when global temperatures are rising and businesses face mounting pressure to implement sustainable practices. With its structured framework, 1.5 Matters provides corporations and individuals with a roadmap to assess, improve, and showcase their environmental impact.

About 1.5 Matters

1.5 Matters, founded by 1M1B, unites over 100 global thought leaders to combat climate change. The initiative is focused on creating a new generation of climate-conscious professionals and accelerating the adoption of net-zero strategies among businesses worldwide.

This monumental launch positions Telangana as a leading hub for climate innovation and action, setting an inspiring example for other states to follow.