We hosted an engaging Fireside Chat with Avani Mishra on Thursday, November 21, entitled “Navigating Law, Finance, and Justice: Holistic Approaches to Sustainable Development and Environmental Conflict Resolution.” This event was a remarkable opportunity for attendees to delve into the intricate connections among law, finance, and sustainable development. The event kicked off with a fireside chat, followed by a presentation and an incredible dance performance by Avani.
Avani is a trailblazing legal professional whose impressive journey spans law, environmental advocacy, finance, and the arts. She has made significant strides in these fields, including her landmark legal victory in Avani Mishra v. Union of India, which demonstrated her unwavering commitment to environmental justice. Additionally, she founded The Earth Foundation, an organization dedicated to advocating for innovative environmental solutions that promote sustainable development.
Fireside Chat
Avani first shared how her childhood experiences in Kathak dance, which emphasizes themes of nature, shaped her love and respect for the environment. Initially starting her career in accounting, she pivoted to law to pursue greater societal impact.
Avani then discussed her landmark case, Avani Mishra v. Union of India, which she filed in her fourth year of law school in 2018. Noticing the lack of recycling schemes for pens, she took the initiative to ask the court for government accountability on this issue. This case not only reinforced her commitment to environmental advocacy but also raised awareness about sustainable practices.
When asked for advice on entering this field, Avani encouraged attendees to pursue careers in environmental advocacy, stating that now is an ideal time to engage in this crucial work. She emphasized the importance of embracing diverse backgrounds and experiences, which can significantly contribute to addressing climate change.
Presentation on Valuation of Forest Services
Avani then highlighted in her presentation the dilemma regarding the practice of using plantations as a substitute for natural forests, questioning whether this approach is a just solution to deforestation.
Ineffectiveness of Carbon Offsetting
Avani revealed concerning findings that over ninety percent of rainforest carbon credits from leading certifier Verra may be ineffective, as reported in The Guardian. This raises critical questions about the reliability of carbon offsetting as a climate solution.
Limitations in Valuation
Avani discussed the challenges in accurately valuing forest services, noting that they can be easily under- or over-estimated. It emphasizes the complexity of making realistic projections for intangible assets within dynamic ecosystems.
Policy and Regulatory Applications
Potential applications for forest asset valuation include integrating environmental costs into decision-making processes and ensuring fair compensation for ecosystem services. This approach aims to trace the downstream impacts on communities and biodiversity, promoting a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
Avani highlighted the importance in preserving our natural resources, and how current valuations might not do justice to these essential ecosystem services. We are grateful to Avani for her informative sharing, and her captivating dances.
Stay tuned for more future events at the intersection of law, finance, and sustainability!
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