University of Chicago Launches Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth in India

New initiative aims to drive global solutions through research and collaboration on climate change, sustainable development, and energy innovation

The University of Chicago marked a significant milestone today with the official launch of its Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth in India aimed at addressing the twin challenges of climate change and sustainable development. This new center, which builds on the University’s legacy of pioneering research and international collaboration, will focus on leveraging cutting-edge academic work to balance the urgency of tackling climate issues with the need for continued human progress and economic growth.

The Institute will prioritize research in climate economics and policy, advanced energy technologies such as battery development, and climate systems engineering. By partnering with Indian academic institutions, industry leaders, and government agencies, the Institute aims to foster solutions tailored to India’s unique challenges in these areas. 

Michael Greenstone, the Director of the new Institute and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), spoke about the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. “Inexpensive energy is essential for growth, especially in developing countries, but it often comes at the expense of the environment. The Institute's mission is to find innovative solutions that allow for sustainable growth while mitigating the environmental impact of energy production and consumption,” he explained.

The new Institute builds on the established work of the University of Chicago Center in Delhi, which has been a hub for fostering academic partnerships and impactful research since its launch in 2014. Over the past decade, the Center has contributed significantly to projects across various fields including energy, water pollution, and emissions reductions, with an emphasis on practical, real-world solutions.

Supratik Guha, Faculty Director of the UChicago Center in Delhi, highlighted the Center’s critical role in advancing research and partnerships. “The Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth is a natural extension of the work we've done over the past ten years. We have built strong relationships with local partners, from government agencies to industry leaders, and these collaborations have driven meaningful impact. The launch of this Institute will further deepen these efforts, focusing on pressing issues like climate change and the sustainable development goals,” he said.

Leni Chaudhuri, Executive Director of the UChicago Center in Delhi, stressed the importance of the Center’s role in supporting innovative solutions for global challenges. “The Institute’s launch represents a new chapter in our commitment to addressing climate change, sustainable development, and emerging technologies. We are excited about the opportunities for collaboration and the impact we can make in India and globally,” she said.