#983 Why These Indian Business Leaders Are Investing In Nature | Govindraj Ethiraj | The Core Report

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Why are Indian business leaders investing in nature? Harish Yarlagadda, Shloka Nath and Dr Ravi Mariwala explore how climate philanthropy, biodiversity conservation and water security connect to India’s economic future.In this episode of The Core Report Weekend Edition, Govindraj Ethiraj speaks with Harish Yarlagadda, founder and chief mentor of Malakshmi Group and co-founder of Dharmavana Nature Arc, Shloka Nath, former CEO of India Climate Collaborative, and Dr Ravi Mariwala, founder and CEO of Smart Water and a promoter at Marico.Yarlagadda shares why he moved away from fossil fuel power plants to focus on biodiversity restoration. His 400-acre project involves collecting seeds, conserving threatened plants and protecting the soil, fungi and insects that sustain ecosystems. His experience raises a question for businesses investing in nature. What does conservation require beyond planting trees?Mariwala explains how building a home outside Mumbai exposed gaps in water access and led him to develop water management solutions. He discusses sewage treatment, wastewater reuse, rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge, and why the right technology matters more than the most sophisticated one.The conversation explores nature-based solutions that use plants and bacteria to treat wastewater. It also connects water security with energy consumption, agriculture and public health, examining how filtration, efficient pumps and better maintenance can address everyday challenges.Nath explains why climate change cannot be separated from India’s development agenda. She discusses how philanthropic capital can fund experiments, build evidence and attract public and private investment. The challenge is connecting individual projects with the institutions and expertise needed to expand their impact.The panel examines how Indian business leaders can use CSR funding, land and operational expertise to support biodiversity and climate resilience. They also discuss a just transition, asking who owns renewable energy infrastructure