The Dhirubhai Ambani University – School of Law inaugurated its Executive Development Programme (EDP) in ESG, Carbon Markets & Sustainability with two high-impact tracks led by internationally recognised experts in sustainability, climate action, and responsible finance.
On 20 September 2025, the programme commenced with the ESG & Sustainable Finance Track, delivered by Ms. Kate Lazarus, Senior ESG Advisory Lead (Asia Pacific) at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), World Bank Group. With more than two decades of experience across Asia, Ms. Lazarus is widely regarded for her work in environmental and social risk management, hydropower sustainability, gender inclusion in renewable energy, and the development of global ESG benchmarks. Her session introduced participants to the evolving architecture of sustainable finance, the role of ESG in investment decision-making, and the governance systems required to align business with climate priorities.
The following day, 21 September 2025, the programme featured the Carbon Markets Track, delivered by Mr. Madhur Jain, Co-Founder & CEO of Varaha, and one of the TIME 100 Climate Leaders. Mr. Jain shared insights from Varaha’s pioneering climate work with more than 80,000 smallholder farmers across South Asia and Africa, enabling regenerative agricultural practices and scaling nature-based carbon removal. His leadership has contributed to the sequestration of over 1.7 million metric tons of CO₂, illustrating how credible carbon markets can deliver both environmental gains and rural livelihood impact.
Together, these sessions mark the beginning of a substantive learning journey for participants, offering deep perspectives on ESG integration, sustainable finance mechanisms, and the evolving landscape of global carbon markets. The inaugural tracks set a strong foundation for the months ahead, where industry practitioners, policymakers, and emerging leaders will engage with the frameworks and tools needed to shape sustainability transitions in their organizations and sectors.
