Businesses have to thrive in co-existence with nature, by reinventing processes and technologies that help reduce pollution, conserve natural resources, and minimize the negative impact of human activities on the planet.

Debashree Dutta, our next pathbreaker, works with businesses on a variety of projects in remediation (Soil and Groundwater) as well as consulting (product stewardship, biodiversity, remediation, due diligence, health and safety plans etc), with a core focus on sustainability.

Debashree talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about several projects that helped clients in ensuring compliance with 100% of relevant product safety regulations, reducing wastage through improved recycling strategies, and implementation of a product life cycle assessment process resulting in reduction of carbon emissions.

For students, consider the long-term impact of your choices, not just immediate rewards. Sustainable, ethical decisions often lead to more meaningful and successful careers.

Debashree,  can you ell us about your background?

I was born and brought up in Delhi known as the capital of India, where I stayed with my parents till my schooling days. We have a nuclear family. Since childhood, I developed a deep appreciation for the values of community especially on social and environmental aspects, hard work, the pursuit of knowledge and communication.

In my growing years, I was a curious child, often found with my nose buried in books and experiments, eager to explore the vast world of knowledge, and paintings, thanks to my parents. My early fascination with nature (water, biodiversity, and resource efficiency) sowed the seeds of a lifelong love for biology and mathematics. 

Academically, my journey was marked by a thirst for understanding and giving others advice to improve. I outshined in a range of subjects, from science and mathematics to painting and writing. I was brilliant in making paintings starting from my science diagrams, to school competitions and debates. This diversity of interests, I believe, was greatly influenced by my parents. My father, a mechanical engineer, introduced me to the wonders of science and technology, sparking an initial interest in the field. On the other hand, my mother, a talented artist, nurtured my creative side, fostering a passion for painting, socializing, and writing. My parents would help us in our science projects and in solving mathematical calculations step wise. My mother would dedicate countless hours to tutor me and my sister. Every day after school, she sat down with us, patiently teaching us mathematics and science. My parents believed that education is important to shape our lives and ensured that both my sister’s and my education remained their utmost priority. My mother has always been a strong pillar, encouraging me and giving me the necessary support like food, tutoring, walk breaks, during exam preparations. I owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to my family for their role in shaping the person I have become today. Also, my best friend was the topper of the school, so having her company made me excel. We studied together for our 10th boards, and were taught by a tutor who used to come to teach us at her place. I am grateful for the time and support from her.

Outside of the classroom, I was an active participant in extracurricular activities. I participated and won in sports, music, painting, public speaking, and drama, exploring various avenues to channel my energy and creativity.  These experiences not only enriched my life but also imparted valuable lessons in discipline, teamwork, and determination. 

What did you do for graduation/post graduation?

My love for Biology and Mathematics, coupled with a fascination for technology and research, has played a pivotal role in defining the trajectory of my life. Though I wanted to become a doctor, due to the limited seats and a highly competitive environment, things did not shape well for me. I have always loved biology/life science; it was my favorite subject growing up, and Biotechnology was a booming career at that point. My parents advised me to follow my heart, assuring me that pursuing a career I loved was the most important thing, regardless of what others thought. So, I made the less comfortable choice and moved to another state to enroll in Punjab Technical University to study BTech in Biotechnology. This decision changed my life, starting with staying in a hostel far away from home. I was topper of my class as I was able to grasp the concepts fast and became very independent and resilient in my life. However, when I discussed the prospects with my college seniors, I got to know that jobs in Biotechnology were limited in India and did not pay well, and hence a Master’s in biotechnology would be required which was better if done from outside India. I also attended trial classes in a coaching class to give the GRE exam. However, I felt it was a big risk to study abroad and required us to take a huge student loan which could be repaid once I get a job after my studies.

Tell us about the influences that made you choose such an offbeat, unconventional and unique career?

During that moment, I got familiar with a specialization in Environmental Science which would allow me to understand the intricate workings of biological systems, essential for addressing environmental challenges. So, I decided to travel all across the country to Chennai for the counseling and took an admission to pursue MTech in Energy and Environment Engineering from VIT University known for their practical course work. This decision turned out to be one of the most fulfilling choices of my life. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my academic journey, savoring the rewards of two years of continuous hard work. Studying Energy and Environmental Engineering not only enriched my knowledge but also provided me with the privilege of attending one of India’s most prestigious universities. I worked on amazing practical projects, attended seminars and conferences, and socialized with people from different parts of the country. We had open book exams which helped us solve real world situations. It was a life changing experience for me, and job prospects were just rising in this field. I still recall my Renewable Energy Solar lab report was the best in class, complimented by my professor with Matlab graphs, diagrams, codes and calculations.

For me, learning and skill development has always been a continuous process. So, later while working, my mentors encouraged me to upskill. Hence, during COVID, I pursued a Diploma in Environmental Law & Policy to understand the legal issues in regulatory compliance and then again, MBA in Leadership & Strategy and Applied Finance due to my strong interest in problem solving and decision-making, which can be applied to various industries, including environmental management and leadership roles. These formative years sowed the seeds of a passion for Environment, Technology, Law, and Problem solving to improve performance, and a desire to bridge the gap between diverse fields, which continues to guide my professional pursuits to this day.

How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted?

My career path has been a journey of continuous learning, adaptation, and goal setting. I’ve always had a passion for biological/ecological systems, and I wanted to channel that passion into a career. I have accumulated 11 years of experience and expertise in the fields of Environmental / Sustainability Consulting, Reporting, Ratings and ESG integration in financial services.

While pursuing these educational qualifications, I sought out opportunities in organizations that aligned with my environmental interests.

I started as a Research intern with the Top Environmental Research Institute – National Energy and Environmental Engineering Institute (NEERI), Nagpur at the Water and Wastewater Technology Department, thanks to Head of Department. This allowed me to apply my knowledge in practical settings and gain valuable experience by working with specialized research fellows and PhDs. I presented my research paper on Decentralized Drinking water Treatment in the India Water week conference in Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi with full sponsorship which was a great achievement for me in research. Also, I would like to thank my mentors in NEERI, who taught me to work hard and everything will fall in place in time.

After my internship, I applied for a Project Assistant position, however did not get through. I did not lose hope and joined IBM Pvt Ltd (Pune), an IT firm via college placements. Transitioning into a new career or taking on new responsibilities often involves taking calculated risks. I was willing to embrace new challenges and step out of my comfort zone when the right opportunities presented themselves. I was welcomed and trained perfectly to work in positions as Developer and Tester on Data Power Technology, thanks to the support by IBM. The work life balance was perfect, with good compensation, collaborative environment, and lots to learn by working in a corporation. My mentors and seniors were very supportive and helped in all stages. I met great people who had passion for their career and family as my flatmates who are still my lifelong friends.

The field of environmental sustainability is ever evolving. To stay relevant and make a meaningful impact, while working with IBM, I made it a point to stay updated on the latest developments, technologies, and best practices in the sector. Continuous learning and adaptation have been crucial in my career.  Building a career often involves networking and mentorship. I actively engaged with professionals in the environmental and sustainability sector, seeking advice and guidance. These connections not only offered insights but also opened doors to new opportunities. By God’s grace and help from my college friends, I got my chance to get into my core sector and work with a local consultant named Sri Sai Manasa Nature Tech Pvt Ltd in Hyderabad (Thanks to the Head of the Company back then) for Environmental Impact Assessment Reporting for Environment Clearances. Yes, I moved to another city to pursue this role and excelled in giving advice to client businesses in preparing and improving on their Environmental Reporting. I learned fast, solved problems, made concise and clear reports and presentations, attended meetings at Pollution Control Board with my skilled supervisors. I also helped in operational excellence by monitoring and tracking the progress of each project, and my communication was top notch which helped in collaboration of our teams with clients and for site visits. My colleagues were very helpful and supportive, we had cherished all the moments.

Finally, it was the breaking point of my life. I got a job offer from Arcadis, a Netherland based company in their GEC Environmental division, Mumbai, by this Technical Director of the Structural Engineering Team and a well-wisher I met via the LinkedIn platform. Yes, I again moved to another state, luckily, I spent 5.3 yrs in this company and every moment gave me opportunities to work on variety of projects in sustainability, in remediation (Soil and Groundwater) as well as consulting (product stewardship, biodiversity, remediation, due diligence, health and safety plans etc), with a track record of successfully leading teams and projects, business overview and analytical skills. I was recognized with awards like Pinnacle and Technical campion, thanks to my managers. I have successfully overseen teams (data management, GIS, CAD, reporting and others), streamlined processes, and taken initiatives to implement tools for digital transformation. I made sure my team got the required support to deliver projects with quality. We were the best team due to the effortless contribution from the team members delivering projects efficiently and being result-oriented. 

I was given the opportunity to lead the top American Chemical and Oil & Gas clients based on my experience in the organization and my knowledge, thanks to my very supportive Manager and US Account Lead. She was a technical genius with her volumes of experience talking and teaching me in every moment. She is and was my best mentor. She was also my coach and gave me the golden opportunity to visit my US counterpart for Headquarter site visit, meet the client to strengthen relationships and be speaker in the Detroit Michigan Townhall with North America Arcadis CEO (see below).

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/debashreedutta_inspiration-innovation-arcadis-activity-6475629643088125952-cAFO?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

It was also the best team I ever worked with, having a clear scope, collaboration, discussion, budget, skill development, training and a good career framework. We had built strong relationships with both teams (India and US) and the client. While working, I pursued many trainings to develop my technical and soft skills. Arcadis always had this thing of helping people grow, and people are the building blocks of the business. Their vision and mission completely speak volumes from their projects. 

At each stage of my career, I set clear goals and milestones. Whether it was to lead an environmental project, influence policy changes, or drive sustainable initiatives within an organization, having specific objectives helped me stay on course.

It was time to learn and work more on the Sustainability/ESG services which led me to join Morningstar Sustainalytics as ESG Content Specialist for the EU Taxonomy Impact Team. Morningstar Sustainalytics is a leading independent Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and corporate governance research, ratings and analytics firm that support investors around the world with the development and implementation of responsible investment strategies. The vision is that it is imperative for the global economy to become more just and sustainable. They work with many companies and asset managers to help them consider sustainability in policies, practices and capital projects, thus maximizing the impact on stakeholders and the environment.

This work was different from consulting, it was more of research, impact product improvement and following regulatory frameworks to give companies being researched a rating score. I worked as a Team lead as well for the first 6 months when the Team was getting established in India, along with my current role. I gained knowledge on more reporting frameworks in sustainability, more insights on risk management, stakeholder engagement, with teams like Research, Methodology & Indicator, Product, Client Issuer etc. I was recognized as the Top performer within a year, thanks to my Manager and Director. The team was supportive in welcoming me and giving me the freedom to excel and make suggestions. I worked in designing the indicators based on market sustainability innovations. A typical day would be like reviewing the companies that we were researching, for quality checks based on the company disclosure and regulatory frameworks, corner cases which need a resolution on the technical aspects, replying to internal and client queries, maybe preparing for giving training and updating guidance. I was fortunate to interact with people across regions in Romania, Amsterdam and India. I also pursued many certifications, GRI, PRI, Introduction to ESG, SDGs etc. Again, I had mentors within my department and in the company to guide me on this career path. Thanks to them, I was able to polish on my skills and learn fast.

How did you get your first break?

My biggest break would be when I got a job offer from Arcadis, a Netherland based company in their GEC Environmental division.

What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them?

Career development is often accompanied by various challenges, and my journey has been no exception. Addressing these challenges required a combination of determination, resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Overcoming obstacles in a career often involves learning from experiences and seeking support when needed, and it’s a journey that continues to shape my path to this day.

Here are some of the challenges I encountered and how I addressed them:

  • Lack of Experience: One of the initial challenges was a lack of practical experience in the field. To address this, I actively sought out internships and entry-level positions in organizations related to environmental sustainability. This hands-on experience allowed me to build a solid foundation.
  • Educational Costs: Pursuing multiple degrees and diplomas can be expensive. I addressed this challenge by applying for scholarships, grants to help cover educational costs. Financial planning and budgeting were key in managing this challenge.
  • Changing Career Paths: Transitioning from a biotechnology background to environmental engineering and then to Sustainability/ESG services required adaptability. I addressed this challenge by highlighting transferable skills, such as regulatory compliance, problem-solving and critical thinking, which were relevant in each field.
  • Competition: The field of environmental sustainability is competitive. To stand out, I actively networked, attended conferences, and joined professional organizations. Building a strong professional network was instrumental in overcoming this challenge.
  • Work-Life Balance: Balancing a demanding career with personal life can be challenging. I addressed this by setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining open communication with my manager, mentors, family and support system.
  • Keeping Up with Rapid Changes: The field of environmental sustainability is dynamic, with evolving technologies and policies. To address this challenge, I committed to continuous learning, attending workshops, and staying updated on industry trends.
  • Workplace Politics: Like any career, workplace politics can be challenging. I addressed this by focusing on maintaining professionalism, collaborating with colleagues, and seeking guidance from mentors on how to navigate such situations.
  • Changing Economic Conditions: Economic conditions can impact job availability and career growth. To address this challenge, I diversified my skill set to be adaptable to changing job market demands.
  • Leadership Development: Transitioning to leadership roles required me to develop be in the shoe of the person in my team. I addressed this challenge by seeking mentorship and taking on progressively more responsible roles and a degree, allowing me to learn and grow as a leader.
  • Maintaining Motivation: To stay motivated, I set short-term and long-term goals, celebrated small victories, and focused on the larger purpose of contributing to environmental sustainability.

Where do you work now? What problems do you solve?

Currently, I am taking a break and looking out for my next opportunity. 

In summary, my career path involved a combination of education, practical experience, networking, continuous learning, and strategic goal setting. The diverse educational background I acquired has allowed me to approach environmental sustainability from multiple angles, and my career continues to evolve as I work toward my passion for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

How does your work benefit society? 

My work in the field of environmental sustainability and leadership benefits society to conduct business in harmony with people and planet in several significant ways:

  • Environmental Conservation: My efforts contribute to the preservation and protection of the environment. By implementing sustainable practices and policies, I help reduce pollution, conserve natural resources, and minimize the negative impact of human activities on the planet. This is crucial in the face of global environmental challenges, including climate change and habitat destruction.
  • Net Zero Approach: I work to promote the use of sustainable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies. By doing so, I play a part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lessening our dependence on fossil fuels, which ultimately benefits society by mitigating the effects of climate change and improving air quality.
  • Sustainable Business: Sustainable practices and technologies often lead to the creation of new industries and jobs. By championing these practices, I contribute to economic growth and job opportunities in sectors related to clean energy, green technology, and sustainable agriculture, fostering a stronger and more resilient economy
  • Health and Well-being: Sustainable environmental practices have a direct impact on public health. Reduced pollution and cleaner air and water improve the overall well-being of communities. By advocating for clean environments and sustainable practices, I help protect people from health issues related to pollution and climate-related disasters.
  • Education and Awareness: My work via philanthropic contributions with organizations like teach for India, Greenpeace also includes public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives. By raising awareness about environmental issues and providing resources for individuals and communities to make more sustainable choices, I empower people to take action and make informed decisions that benefit society as a whole.
  • Policy Advocacy: I engage in advocacy for policies and regulations that promote environmental sustainability. These policies often lead to more responsible business practices, cleaner technologies, and a healthier environment. Stronger environmental policies can also influence other countries, contributing to global efforts to address environmental challenges.

Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!

1. Being the account and delivery lead for a Top American chemical client, I got the opportunity to evaluate & monitor results for their Head Quarter site for 2 years. The site was amazing with so many features. This helped them to comply with the regulatory compliance while performing operations. Thanks to the UK based coach who made me 21st Century certified Task manager.

2. Read and summarized global regulations (Chemical and Biological) as per their relevance for the client’s products in various countries including details of compliance documentation, penalties of non-compliance, exemptions for safe production processes, product labeling and waste management. The above projects helped the client by ensuring compliance with 100% of relevant product safety regulations, as well as reduced product waste through improved recycling and waste reduction strategies. Implemented a product life cycle assessment process resulting in reduction of carbon emissions and compliance with the export/import duties.

3. Site Due Diligence Reporting for Top Banks to support financial settlements and liabilities.

4. PFAS which is an emerging contaminant monitoring and reporting for the Federal clients.

5.Designing the research indicators for many business/economic activities with Indicator and Methodology Team. It needed time to research market innovations and understand what is considered sustainable and what is not. We received great appreciation from the Top leaders on that project which was 2-3 months long .

Your advice to students based on your experience?

Certainly, based on my experiences, here are some valuable pieces of advice for students:

Follow your heart and pursue what you are truly passionate about. A career that aligns with your interests will be more fulfilling and motivating.

Never stop asking questions and seeking knowledge. Curiosity is a powerful driver of personal and professional growth. Define your short-term and long-term goals. Having clear objectives will provide direction and motivation as you progress through your educational and career journey.

Be open to change and adaptability. Career paths are rarely linear, and being flexible in your approach can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal growth. Networking is crucial. Connect with peers, professors, professionals, and mentors. Relationships often open doors to new opportunities and valuable guidance.

Make learning a lifelong commitment. Stay updated on industry trends, new technologies, and best practices to remain relevant in your chosen field. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone leads to significant personal and professional growth.

Strive for a healthy work-life balance. Prioritize self-care, relationships, and personal well-being, as they are essential for sustained success and happiness. Find mentors who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your educational and career journey. They can offer valuable insights and help you make informed decisions.

Consider how your skills and knowledge can benefit others and the broader community. Volunteering and contributing to causes you are passionate about can be incredibly rewarding. Perseverance is key.

Challenges and setbacks are a natural part of any journey, but staying committed to your goals will help you overcome them. Embrace diversity and inclusivity. Learning from people with different perspectives and backgrounds can enrich your own understanding and broaden your horizons.

Seize every opportunity to learn and grow, whether it’s an internship, a project, or a chance to develop new skills. Develop resilience to bounce back from setbacks. The ability to overcome adversity is a valuable skill that will serve you well in any career.

Consider the long-term impact of your choices, not just immediate rewards. Sustainable, ethical decisions often lead to more meaningful and successful careers. Remember that your educational and career journey is unique to you. It may not always be straightforward, but every experience and challenge you encounter contributes to your personal and professional growth. Stay committed to your goals, keep learning, and be true to yourself, and you’ll find success and fulfillment in your chosen path.

Future Plans?

To excel more in this field as opportunities surprise me.