Houston, TX, (April 28, 2025): Sewa International hosted the Green Summit: Small Steps, Big Impact virtually on April 26, drawing over 150 attendees. The summit, featuring panelists from prominent environmental organizations, emphasized practical actions toward building a sustainable future.
The first panel focused on “Clean Energy and Ocean Health”. Moderator and host Rakhi Israni, Sewa International’s Vice President of Government Relations, reflected on Earth Month, reminding attendees of the deep connection between humanity and the planet. Laura Bartsch, Strategic Advisor at the Carbon League, and Stewart Sarkozy-Banoczy, Managing Director and CEO of the World Ocean Council, led the conversation on clean energy innovation and ocean conservation.
Moderator and host Rakhi Israni (top left), Strategic Advisor at the Carbon League, Laura Bartsch (top right), and Managing Director and CEO of the World Ocean Council, Sarkozy-Banoczy (bottom) at the Green Summit
Laura Bartsch, architect and designer, said achieving 100% clean energy is possible today, though significant policy challenges remain. Bartsch expressed strong support for offshore wind energy, noting that Rhode Island—where she lives—was the first U.S. state to install ocean-based wind turbines. Bartsch highlighted the importance of local initiatives, citing New York City's congestion pricing as an example. She explained that not only has traffic been reduced, the policy also supports the adoption of cleaner energy options like electric and hydrogen-powered buses, funded through the revenue generated. She stressed that small changes, like adding bike lanes, can shift behaviors and build sustainable cities. Bartsch concluded by encouraging a focus on policy over politics.
Founder of Addressing Wellness and Equity, Lipika Devara, (top left), Director at Clean Fairfax, Jennifer Cole (top right), founder of Kaizen Life, Rashmi Prabhu (bottom left), and Director of the SERVE Program, Rohit Deshpande (bottom right), present at the Green Summit
CEO of the World Ocean Council, Sarkozy-Banoczy, stressed the oceans' critical role in carbon absorption and climate regulation. He explained that industries tied to the sea, such as shipping and fishing, must go beyond minimizing harm to actively restoring ecosystems. Warning against corporate green-washing and blue-washing, he urged consumers to scrutinize environmental claims critically, ensuring that initiatives drive meaningful, systemic change.
Young leaders, Ira Gramopadhye and Lipika Devara, offered some practical insights, including essential composting tips, emphasizing simple methods to reduce household waste. Lipika Devera led a discussion on sustainability challenges, featuring contributions from Jennifer Cole and Rashmi Prabhu, who addressed waste management improvements and the dangers of fast fashion. Rohit Deshpande underscored the impact of community volunteerism through Sewa’s SERVE program’s initiatives, including cleanups and tree planting efforts.
Researcher in composting, Ira Gramopadhye, at the Green Summit
About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.
