South Asia is home to some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, from the snow-covered slopes of the Himalayas to the lush mangroves of the Sundarbans. But as the world’s most populous region continues to grow at breakneck speeds, both species and habitats are threatened by climate change. Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and increasingly frequent extreme weather events are disrupting the delicate balance of nature. 

The impact of climate change is urgent and irreversible. We may soon pass tipping points for ecological collapse across the world: the melting of polar ice sheets, the deforestation of the Amazon, and the destruction of coral reefs in Australia. Critical habitat zones across South Asia are shrinking or endangered: per the WWF Living Planet Report 2024, early warning signs are showing us the effect of climate change. For example, in south India, wetlands have been diminishing rapidly in size, exacerbating drought and flooding risks alike. Snow leopards and Himalayan yaks battle rising temperatures and invasive species in the mountains. Conservation efforts are needed now more than ever to avoid breaching tipping points and ensure a diverse and healthy planet. 

In ‘Wildlife Conservation in South Asia,’ we will explore: why does biodiversity matter? How do we protect endangered species vital to the balance of nature? How can we conserve the remarkable ecosystems of our subcontinent? We will consider not just the ecological cost of negligence, but the tangible solutions needed to preserve South Asia’s extraordinary biodiversity for future generations. Our panelists are Bittu Sahgal, celebrated Indian conservationist and founder of Sanctuary Nature Foundation, Latika Nath, author, photographer and wildlife conservationist, and Farwa Aamer, Director of South Asia Initiatives at Asia Society Policy Institute New York, who will be moderating the conversation. 

This is the final session of Wide World: Climate in South Asia, this year's edition of our annual summer learning series, taking place virtually over June and July. Over four sessions and with panels of experts, we will explore the ways in which climate change affects South Asia, and the steps being taken to mitigate its effects. The programs look at climate justice; climate advocacy; climate finance; and wildlife conservation. 

SPEAKERS

Bittu Sahgal is one of India’s most respected environmental voices, known for his pioneering work in wildlife conservation and environmental journalism. He is the founder of the Sanctuary Nature Foundation and founding editor of Sanctuary Asia, India’s first and leading wildlife and ecology magazine. For over four decades, Sahgal has worked at the intersection of environmental advocacy, education, and storytelling—bringing the urgency of biodiversity loss and climate change to national consciousness. Sahgal’s work has been instrumental in campaigns to protect India's forests, wetlands, and endangered species. His initiatives such as the Sanctuary Wildlife Awards and Kids for Tigers have inspired generations of environmental leaders.  

Latika Nath is an award winning and globally acknowledged wildlife conservationist and photographer. With a Masters on Human-Elephant conflict from Wales and a Doctorate on Tiger Conservation and Management from Oxford, she is an international authority on big cat conservation.

Recently honored among Asia's 100 Women Power Leaders for 2023, Latika's profile reflects a remarkable journey marked by academic excellence, pioneering initiatives, and unwavering commit- ment to conservation. Academically, Latika's journey is illustrious, culminating in a groundbreaking Doctorate on Tigers from the University of Oxford. Her expertise also encompasses the nuanced domain of Human-Wild- life Conflict resolution, showcasing her comprehensive understanding of the overlapping worlds of human development and wildlife conservation. Residing and Central to Latika's mission is her relentless dedication to nature conservation. Through her artistry in photography and writing, she endeavors to raise awareness for conservation issues including climate change, ocean health and habitat protection. Her impactful contributions have been recognized globally, featured in renowned documentaries and programs by National Geographic and the Discovery Channel.
 

Dedicating over three decades to the heart of Central India, Latika's life epitomizes a polymathic spirit. Beyond her roles as a scientist and conservationist, she's also an accomplished author, a TED speaker photographer, diver, and even a hotelier. Her multifaceted endeavors underscore a profound connection with the natural world. An art afficionado and design cognoscenti, Latika has been at the core of the makeover of two of the famous luxury hotels in Delhi and is known for her ability to work in a variety of styles and adapt her design to the specifications of the site. As an hotelier herself, she has a deep understanding about the challenges of running boutique hotels in remote locations that focus on sustainability, luxury and experiential tourism. At her home Mahavan, Latika will be showcasing the tenets of sustainable luxury tourism that contributes to the conservation of wildlife, wilderness, cultures and local communities.
 

Latika is a global ambassador for Leica and a Nikon creator. She has represented several brands including Jeep and Tata Zoya. She has been awarded several scholarships and grants for her academic work as well as awards for her work in the fields of tourism and sustainability. 
 

Farwa Aamer is the Director of South Asia Initiatives at the Asia Society Policy Institute in New York, where she leads research, dialogue, and policy engagement on issues shaping the future of South Asia. With a focus on climate resilience, water security, and sustainable development, Aamer’s work has highlighted the intersection of climate change and water stress as critical fault lines in South Asia’s future stability. She holds degrees in international affairs and public policy and previously worked with institutions such as the EastWest Institute and the Stimson Center.