Ricky Kej Advocates for Sustainability Through Music at 2026 Conclave
Ricky Kej's Musical Advocacy for Sustainability
The 2026 Sustainability Conclave, organized by the Times Network, gathered influential policymakers, business leaders, and innovators to explore the theme: "India 2035: Building a Self-Reliant and Sustainable Future." Among the notable speakers was Indian composer and environmental advocate Ricky Kej, who participated in a session titled "Composing Change: Championing Sustainability With Music." During this session, Ricky discussed how he utilizes music as a medium to convey messages about sustainability. He emphasized, "Music serves as a powerful tool, not only for delivering a message but also for embedding it in the listener's memory." He reflected on his journey after winning his first Grammy in 2015 for an album focused on sustainability, which inspired him to create music centered on environmental issues that resonate deeply with him.
Exploring Sustainability Through Music
Ricky shared various examples of how he integrates sustainability into his music. He recalled an impactful moment from the 2015 Climate Change Conference in Paris, where a leader from Kiribati delivered a poignant 30-second speech urging for a resolution to protect his island nation from rising sea levels. This inspired Ricky to visit Kiribati and compose a song reflecting their plight.
Kiribati, a small island nation in the central Pacific, consists of 33 atolls and reef islands, home to approximately 120,000 residents. With most of its land just two meters above sea level, it faces severe threats from rising oceans. As global temperatures increase, the melting of glaciers and warming waters contribute to rising sea levels, posing catastrophic risks to low-lying nations like Kiribati. The encroachment of saltwater into freshwater supplies and the loss of arable land are already evident. Scientists warn that if current trends persist, much of Kiribati could become uninhabitable within decades.
Ricky aims to raise awareness about these issues through his performances, transforming abstract statistics into relatable narratives that resonate with audiences. He believes that music can carry the story of Kiribati beyond formal discussions, ensuring that the island's struggle for survival remains in the hearts and minds of listeners.
When asked about his personal contributions to sustainability, Ricky mentioned his efforts over the past decade to document songs addressing extinction threats across India. He shared his practice of auditing his carbon footprint quarterly, discussing strategies with his team to minimize it. He emphasized the importance of essential travel and avoiding fast fashion, often wearing the same high-quality suit repeatedly. Additionally, he relies on public transportation and maintains a meat-free diet.
Ricky Kej's presentation at the conclave highlighted that sustainability is not merely a lofty goal discussed at conferences; it encompasses daily choices and conscious actions. Whether through a poignant song about a vulnerable island or the discipline of tracking his carbon emissions, Kej's commitment to climate action is rooted in the belief that awareness must translate into tangible behavior.