In 2025, Brazil will host the 30th United Nations Conference on Climate Change – Conference of the Parties (COP30), a global milestone in the fight against climate change and a moment to reaffirm the role of everyone – governments, companies and civil society – in building a sustainable future. In this scenario, the Ramacrisna Institute, located in Betim, has stood out by showing that small local actions can generate big environmental and social impacts, aligning itself with ESG (Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance) practices and contributing directly to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Global Compact – which the Institution became a signatory to in 2024.

The organization aligns sustainability and education actions, which involve students, staff and the community itself. “Sustainability is not just a goal, but a shared responsibility. If everyone, in the simplicity of small gestures, does their part, we will undoubtedly make great strides in preserving our planet. In such a symbolic year for Brazil on the world stage, we want to show that it is possible to transform local practices into global impact. ”, says the vice-president of the Ramacrisna Institute, Solange Bottaro.

Clean energy: a step towards a sustainable future
With the installation of a photovoltaic solar plant that generates 90 kWp, Ramacrisna meets 90% of its monthly energy consumption. This action contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (SDGs 7 and 13) and generates significant financial savings, which are reinvested in social impact: the funds saved are enough to provide care for around 440 young people or to pay for more than 7,260 meals a year.
In addition, the Institute offers a course in Installation Electricians, which includes a module dedicated to photovoltaic energy. Training the workforce for the renewable energy sector not only responds to market demands, but also expands employment opportunities and social inclusion, strengthening the social pillar of ESG practices.

Environmental preservation: taking care of the cerrado and natural resources
Ramacrisna preserves 4 hectares of native cerrado forest, one of Brazil’s most threatened biomes. This initiative contributes to the protection of biodiversity (SDG 15) and reinforces the commitment to sustainability in a context where the loss of forests and natural habitats is a growing concern on the global stage.
Waste management is another highlight. Through initiatives such as composting, the correct disposal of oil, the recycling of materials and the collection of electronics, the Institute minimizes environmental impacts and stimulates the circular economy (SDG 12).

Water management
In a region without a sewage treatment system, Ramacrisna has developed a biodigester system that treats 100% of the effluent generated at its headquarters. This action contributes directly to SDG 6, which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water.

Environmental education
The students at the Ramacrisna Educational Support Center (CAER) have environmental education as one of the pillars of their learning throughout the school year. Through educational activities in the classroom, awareness-raising actions and playful practices, they deepen their understanding of the importance of environmental preservation. They then become multipliers of this knowledge by taking the lessons learned home with them, encouraging parents and family members to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.
“Environmental education is a powerful tool, especially when worked on from an early age. Addressing issues like these with children raises awareness and makes them multipliers of good practices in their families and in the community. ”, explains Solange.

Small actions, big achievements
Ramacrisna’s initiatives, although local, exemplify how small actions can contribute to big changes. The transformation promoted by the Institute demonstrates that sustainable practices are not restricted to large corporations or governments; they can be integrated into the daily lives of community organizations, generating a significant impact on the advancement of ESG practices and the achievement of the SDGs.
“Our work reinforces the idea that sustainability begins with simple but conscious choices. By integrating sustainable practices into our operations, we show that every step counts towards building a fairer and more environmentally balanced future,” says Solange.