Dr. Sadhvi on Green Visions of Development Faith and Science Earth Alliance Conference

This talk challenges the modern idea of “development” that equates progress with concrete, shopping malls, and the loss of natural landscapes. The speaker highlights a troubling mindset in which countries are considered more advanced as forests disappear, small local shops are replaced by large commercial centers, and natural ground is increasingly paved over.

Using examples from communities where shopping malls are seen as symbols of pride and progress, the speaker questions whether this model of growth is truly desirable or sustainable. Instead, they advocate for a different approach—what they call “green visions of development.”

This alternative vision promotes economic growth that does not come at the cost of the environment. The goal is to achieve prosperity while preserving natural spaces, ensuring that development supports both people and the planet rather than replacing nature with concrete.