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Table of Contents
Founder’s Note:
As we step into another week of impact and reflection, this edition of the IICSR Sustainability Express brings together the conversations shaping the future of responsible leadership. From the rise of climate litigation to the growing momentum of our ESG Clubs across India, this newsletter captures the energy, urgency, and innovation driving our community. I am inspired by the dedication of our learners, the curiosity of our new participants, and the achievements of our recent graduates. Together, we continue building a global movement where knowledge leads to action and action leads to change. Thank you for being part of this journey toward a more sustainable and just world.
— Harsha Saxena
Founder, IICSR & Lynera.ai
Blogs
Climate Lawsuits Are Rising: Is Your Board Prepared?

Climate lawsuits are rising faster than ever, and boards are suddenly finding themselves at the center of a global legal storm. Companies that proudly announce net zero commitments are now facing subpoenas—not for emissions, but for greenwashing and misleading disclosures. With over 2,500 climate cases worldwide and a growing number targeting individual directors, no industry is immune. From Shell’s board being sued personally to banks facing class actions, the message is clear: climate governance is now a legal duty, not a branding exercise. If your company has made climate promises, this is the one article your board cannot afford to ignore.
#ClimateLitigation #NetZero #ESGRisks #BoardGovernance #SustainabilityLeadership #CorporateAccountability
Comic section

IICSR Virtual ESG Clubs
𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗜𝗖𝗦𝗥 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗦𝗚 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯!

ESG Club Bangalore and Chennai: (L-R) Venugopal R, Harsha Saxena, Mithun, N Raghuraman, Pranati, Tejal Jethwa

IICSR ESG Club Mumbai and Pune: (L-R) Mandar Naik, Harsha Saxena, Rajendra Kumar, Rajesh Kumar Mehta, Swapnil Dubey, Ryspha, Pihu Mittal and Aarti Ware
𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹, 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 (𝗘𝗦𝗚) 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹-𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁?
Here’s your chance to network, learn, and collaborate with sustainability professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders from around the world! 🌐
✨ 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗦𝗚 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯:
The IICSR Virtual ESG Club is a community-led initiative designed to bring together changemakers who are driving responsible business transformation. Through bi-monthly online meetings, members discuss global ESG trends, share best practices, exchange ideas, and co-create impact-driven projects.
💬 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:
Interactive discussions on sustainability, climate action, and corporate responsibility
Insights from IICSR experts and alumni from leading organisations
Collaboration opportunities with like-minded ESG professionals
Updates on the latest IICSR initiatives, courses, and Net Zero Summit 2026!
🗓️ When: Bi-monthly
📍 Where: Online (Zoom link shared post-joining the WA group)
💌 How to Join ESG Clubs?
𝗜𝗜𝗖𝗦𝗥 𝗘𝘀𝗴 𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗯 𝗠𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗶:- 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁.𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗛𝘅𝗲𝘁𝗟𝘄𝗧𝗭𝗝𝘃𝘀𝟳𝗪𝟳𝟳𝗤𝗳𝗶𝟱𝗣𝗗𝗡?𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲=𝘄𝘄𝘁
𝗘𝗦𝗚 c𝗹𝘂𝗯 P𝘂𝗻𝗲:- 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁.𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗜𝗙𝗢𝗤𝘆𝗦𝟱𝗨𝗙𝗮𝗴𝟯𝘂𝗬𝗩𝗚𝗷𝗲𝟰𝗱𝗛𝗻?𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲=𝘄𝘄𝘁
𝗘𝗦𝗚 𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗯 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗮𝗶:- 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁.𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗘𝗙𝗳𝗯𝟳𝘁𝗺𝟲𝗩𝗤𝗺𝟬𝗖𝟬𝗔𝘅𝗮𝗶𝗯𝟭𝗿𝗽?𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲=𝘄𝘄𝘁
𝗘𝗦𝗚 𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗯 𝗕𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲:- 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁.𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗛𝗔𝗤𝗔𝟯𝗾𝗫𝗘𝗼𝗦𝟵𝟵𝗘𝘆𝗪𝗟𝗜𝘃𝗼𝗳𝗻𝘃?𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲=𝘄𝘄𝘁
𝗘𝗦𝗚 𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗯 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗵𝗶:- 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁.𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗛𝗭𝟴𝗯𝗝𝗺𝗩𝗮𝗘𝟬𝗹𝟲𝟲𝗠𝗝𝗿𝟰𝗙𝗾𝗲𝟰𝗞?𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲=𝘄𝘄𝘁
𝗘𝗦𝗚 𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗯 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗱:- 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁.𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗖𝗨𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗱𝟯𝗳𝗫𝗥𝗙𝗔𝗻𝗠𝗢𝗛𝗗𝗶𝗧𝗴𝗨𝗮?𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲=𝘄𝘄𝘁
𝗝𝗼𝗯 𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁ies:- 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁.𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗗𝟳𝗡𝗥𝗺𝟲𝗸𝗼𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗚𝗵𝗙𝟳𝗲𝗽𝗔𝗰𝗡𝗴𝗟?𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲=𝘄𝘄𝘁
𝗨𝗽𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀:- 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘁.𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽.𝗰𝗼𝗺/𝗘𝗘𝟳𝗞𝗠𝘂𝗬𝗥𝗖𝗵𝗠𝗟𝗲𝗮𝘂𝗱𝗻𝗠𝗹𝗛𝗹𝗾?𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲=𝘄𝘄𝘁
Thank you for joining AARTI WARE Vaidyanathan Chandramouli Venugopal R (for leading the discussion) Raghuraman Narasimha Chari Mithunraj S TEJAL JETHVA Pranati Shroff- Munot Mandar Naik RAJESHKUMAR MEHTA @pihu mittal @ryspha Swapnil Dubey Rajendra Kumar KN 😊
Course Commencement
Welcome to the Journey!
Advanced Net Zero Expert & Master’s in ESG

Advanced Net Zero Expert: (L-R) Anand Bhardwaj, Harsha Saxena, Saurabh Gupta, Kamya, N Raghuraman, Deepa Atal, Dr Vidyanath Rangojoo, Harisadhan, Kanchan Joshi, Maneesh David Singh, Rajeshkumar Mehta, Samesh Toraskar, Jitendra Dixit
A warm welcome and our best wishes to all the participants who have recently joined the Advanced Net Zero Expert and Master’s in ESG B6 programs. You are stepping into two of the most transformative and future-forward learning journeys at IICSR, designed to shape industry-ready sustainability leaders.
Your decision to invest in advanced sustainability education reflects your commitment to driving meaningful change across organisations, communities, and global systems. As you begin this rigorous and rewarding path, we encourage you to stay curious, challenge assumptions, collaborate deeply, and explore innovative solutions that accelerate climate action and responsible governance.
We are excited to accompany you on this journey and look forward to witnessing the impact you will create as the next generation of sustainability strategists and ESG pioneers.
Welcome aboard — the future needs leaders like you. 🌍✨
Congratulations to Our New IICSR Graduates!
Carbon Blockchain Practitioner & AI and Sustainability Practitioner

AI and Sustainability: Alkab Shaikh, Harsha Saxena, Rajiv Raghuraman, Samesh Toraskar, Sohini, Shreshtha Bhattacharya, Tridev Vijay

Carbon Blockchain Practitioners: (L-R) Kishore Mahumankar, Harsha Saxena, Yashodhan, Shantanu Vichare, Prosanta, Deepa Atal, Roopjeet B, Maya
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the learners who have completed the Carbon Blockchain Practitioner led by Kishore Mahumankar and Shantanu, and the AI and Sustainability Practitioner led by Alkab Shaikh and Kasia Sadowsky. Your dedication, critical thinking, and commitment to advancing sustainability through innovation have truly set you apart.
As emerging leaders in climate action and digital transformation, you now carry the knowledge and skills to shape responsible, tech-enabled solutions for a greener future. We are proud of your journey and excited to see you contribute to global sustainability goals with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
Welcome to the IICSR community of changemakers — your impact begins now.
Upcoming Courses
IICSR Certified Net Zero Strategist (In-person) (January’26)

Duration: 22nd-24th January 2026
Time: Full day
Book your seat and avail early benefits by joining IICSR community with access to E-Library, Events, Job openings and more:
Book your seat: https://buy.stripe.com/3cIeVc4ed8xtg711Xrcs82c
(Note: The amount is included in the fees. For making full payment to get early access to the full course materials and to avail Achala scholarship (first 10 qualified applicants), please write to [email protected])
Masters in Net Zero (Online)

Weekends only
Duration: 14th Feb to 23rd August 2026
Time: 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Mode: Fully online
Book your seat and avail early benefits by joining IICSR community with access to E-Library, Events, Job openings and more:
Book your seat: https://buy.stripe.com/3cIeVc4ed8xtg711Xrcs82c
(Note: The amount is included in the fees. For making full payment to get early access to the full course materials and to avail Achala scholarship (first 10 qualified applicants), please write to [email protected])
Certified Digital Circular Innovation Expert

Wednesday’s only
Duration: 5th February to 11th March 2026
Time: 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Mode: Fully online
Book your seat and avail early benefits by joining IICSR community with access to E-Library, Events, Job openings and more:
Book your seat: https://buy.stripe.com/3cIeVc4ed8xtg711Xrcs82c
(Note: The amount is included in the fees. For making full payment to get early access to the full course materials and to avail Achala scholarship (first 10 qualified applicants), please write to [email protected])
Events
Step into a space where ideas meet action. Join us at the upcoming IICSR Sustainability Dialogues — an in-person experience that no screen can replicate. Connect face-to-face, exchange challenges and solutions in advancing sustainable development, share hard-earned successes, and forge genuine human-to-human connections that inspire lasting impact.
The Future Is Calling — Will You Answer?

International Net Zero Summit 2026
Taj Vivanta, Goa | 22nd–24th January 2026
https://www.iicsr.com/inzp26
The world’s most influential sustainability leaders, innovators, and changemakers are gathering in Goa — and you can be part of the movement shaping our Net Zero future.
Over three power-packed days:
Experience groundbreaking discussions on climate innovation, AI, and carbon markets
Network with policymakers, CEOs, and global experts
Discover real-world solutions that redefine sustainability leadership
Ways to participate:
Apply Now: International Net Zero Awards 2026 — The Global Benchmark for Sustainability Excellence!

We’re thrilled to open nominations for the International Net Zero Awards 2026, celebrating trailblazers driving innovation, accountability, and impact in the global Net Zero transition. 🏆 Hosted at Taj Vivanta, Goa (22–24 Jan 2026) during the International Net Zero Summit 2026, this is your moment to shine among world leaders, policymakers, and pioneers shaping a sustainable future.
💡 Winning this award isn’t just an accolade — it’s a declaration that your company doesn’t follow the future… it creates it.
👉 Apply now: https://www.iicsr.com/awardsinzs26
📅 Event Info: https://www.iicsr.com/inzp26
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Lead the Future of Sustainability – Certified Net Zero Strategist Workshop

Be part of an elite global learning experience at the International Net Zero Summit 2026, taking place from 22–24 January 2026 at Taj Vivanta, Goa. This immersive workshop empowers leaders to design and implement Net Zero strategies, apply carbon accounting standards, and align sustainability with profitability.
Earn a globally recognised certification, enjoy exclusive networking opportunities, and experience Goa’s rich culture while shaping the Net Zero future.
Brochure: Download here
Register now: https://easebuzz.in/pay/iicsrgroup
Event Info: https://www.iicsr.com/inzp26
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Call for Research Papers – Net Zero Academic Colloquium 2026

Be part of a global dialogue driving the world’s transition to a Net Zero future. The Net Zero Academic Colloquium 2026, held from 22–24 January 2026 at Taj Vivanta, Goa, invites scholars, researchers, and innovators to present groundbreaking work that redefines sustainability thinking.
Selected papers will be published in the Net Zero Compendium 2026 – Research Edition, offering visibility before global leaders, policymakers, and academia.
Submission Deadline: 15 December 2025
Details: https://www.iicsr.com/nzac26
Submit to: [email protected]
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Call for Corporate Case Studies – Net Zero Compendium 2026

We’re inviting forward-thinking organisations to feature in the IICSR Net Zero Compendium 2026 — a landmark global publication celebrating pioneers in sustainability, innovation, and climate leadership. Released during the International Net Zero Summit 2026 at Taj Vivanta, Goa (22–24 January 2026), the Compendium spotlights companies transforming ambition into measurable Net Zero action.
Gain global recognition, showcase your ESG leadership, and join the world’s most influential sustainability network.
Submission Deadline: 15 December 2025
Case Study Format: https://www.iicsr.com/_files/ugd/2d95ea_4466a509ba7245a5b0d2fd576b4ed671.pdf
Event Details: https://www.iicsr.com/inzp26
Submit to: [email protected]
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Partner with the International Net Zero Summit 2026

Join the International Net Zero Summit 2026 — the global meeting ground for sustainability visionaries, innovators, and policymakers — from 22–24 January 2026 at Taj Vivanta, Goa. Hosted by IICSR Group in collaboration with MEPSC (Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Govt. of India) and Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), the summit is often called the Davos of Sustainability and Net Zero Goals.
As a partner, your organisation will gain exclusive global visibility, engage with 300+ leaders, and be featured in the Net Zero Compendium 2026.
Brochure: https://www.iicsr.com/_files/ugd/2d95ea_38ebc8873b144ec59d39d90b0f6fe504.pdf?index=true
Event Details: https://www.iicsr.com/inzp26
Schedule a Call: https://calendly.com/iicsr/strategic-collaboration
Jobs
Each week, IICSR curates a selection of high-impact career opportunities from around the world in the fields of sustainability, ESG, CSR, and related domains. Explore these roles and take the next step in your professional journey by applying directly through the links provided.
India
Research & Sustainability Analyst – Mumbai
Conduct ESG-related market research, analyse sustainability data, and support corporate strategy teams.
Engage with clients to deliver actionable ESG insights; work closely with senior management.
Junior Environmental Consultant – RINA, Mumbai
Support global project financing by conducting environmental and social assessments and modeling pollutant impacts.
Ensure compliance and effective risk mitigation for investment decision-making in sustainability projects.
USA
New Business Sales - Climate & Sustainability – ISS, USA
Drive growth for climate and sustainability offerings, focusing on ESG reporting and impact solutions for global clients.
Engage with sustainability leaders to identify opportunities and champion transformative projects.
Junior Sustainability Designer – Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), California
Enhance sustainable design practices, including energy modeling and daylight analysis for major projects.
Support green building certifications and client presentations in the US construction sector.
Apply Here
Europe
ESG Data Scientist – Global Asset Management Firm
Develop analytics tools to advance ESG and sustainability insights for European portfolios.
Work with cross-disciplinary teams to optimize data-driven sustainable finance solutions.
EMEA ESG Specialist – Fagron, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Strengthen EHS monitoring and drive CSRD-aligned action plans for environmental impact reduction.
Collaborate across EMEA operations for quality data and workplace safety enhancement.
Africa
Graduate in Training: ESG – Pele Energy Group, Sandton
Support ESG initiatives for renewable energy projects, focusing on impact measurement and policy alignment.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in energy transition and community outreach.
Intern Corporate Affairs & Sustainable Impact – Valterra Platinum, Limpopo
Work with corporate affairs and sustainability teams, supporting CSR project execution.
Assist in the development and monitoring of impact measurement systems for sustainability.
APAC
Regional Data & AI Analyst – APAC
Analyze ESG data across supply chains in Southeast Asia, supporting transparency in environmental impact.
Work with AI-driven platforms to optimize sustainability initiatives for multinational clients.
Environmental Analyst – Singapore
Contribute to large-scale sustainability programs and regulatory compliance efforts for enterprises.
Prepare and report environmental data and engage with public sector and private firms for sustainability.
About IICSR
The International Institute of Corporate Sustainability and Responsibility (IICSR) is a globally recognised institution dedicated to advancing Sustainability, CSR, ESG, and Responsible Business Practices through education, research, and training. With 10+ years of impact, IICSR has empowered professionals worldwide via academic programs, corporate trainings, global dialogues, and policy-driven research, in collaboration with corporates, governments, and universities.
Accreditations & Partnerships
Accredited by EAHEA (Europe), ACTD (USA) and MEPSC (Govt. of India)
Programs aligned with NSQF standards
Academic credit transfer partnership with Menlo College, Silicon Valley
Offerings
Accredited diploma and master-level courses
Enterprise trainings and certifications
Research, publications, and sustainability tools
Global events and dialogues with changemakers
Lynera.ai: AI- and blockchain-powered learning platform
At IICSR, the mission is clear: to create purpose-driven leaders and enable organizations to embed sustainability at their core.



