We continue to grapple with complex and interconnected challenges in achieving sustainable development , requiring collective efforts to create a sustainable and equitable future. We value the significance of leadership that plays a pivotal role in driving change which necessitates inclusivity, resilience, adaptability, and creativity. Recognizing the critical role of leadership in achieving sustainable development and operationalising climate action, the 23rd edition of TERI’s flagship event, the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) focused on 'Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice'. Distinguished leaders, policymakers, and experts from international organizations, government, business & industries, research & academia, civil society convened to deliberate on the progress we have made so far, multifarious issues, nuances and the path ahead towards the shared goal of realizing sustainable development and climate justice.

The Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, highlighted in his message that the WSDS has evolved into a pre-eminent platform to foster dialogue, collaboration, and action on sustainability and combating climate change. We were also enlightened by the inspiring address of the Hon'ble Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, who articulated that climate justice should guide the efforts against climate change, considering its disproportionate impact on the most-vulnerable communities.

Shri Dhankhar highlighted India's leading role in global environmental protection and climate justice initiatives. The Hon'ble Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav in his address noted that India is committed to both fighting climate change and ensuring climate justice. Such profound articulations by our leaders had set the tone and created contours of the collective discourse during the flagship event.

The cover story in this Special Issue on 'Leadership For Sustainable Development And Climate Justice' underscores the assumption that leadership plays a pivotal role in pushing for a green and just world in achieving sustainable development or fighting for climate justice. With nations lagging far behind in meeting climate goals, only a sustained push through climate leadership can bring us closer to achieving our targets for 2030 and 2050. We possess the technology and resources necessary to combat climate change; therefore, we must intensify our efforts before it becomes too late.

The articles showcase research and provide insights to drive action and design futuristic strategies.  There are opinion pieces on leadership for sustainable development and climate justice in a conflict-ridden world which are insightful and essentially provide inputs for a deeper reflection. Some of the opinion pieces are portrayed in the form of 'innovation showcase' that include any innovative initiative, or technology that organizations in the sustainability sphere are implementing/promoting. Such narratives and practices may trigger further research, collaborative decision-making, and timely action.

Happy reading!