In response to the growing global concern to address the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, VIT Chennai proudly established the Centre for Climate Change and Environment (CCCE) in November 2024. This pioneering research centre is dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations to combat one of the most pressing issues of our time. The world today faces an unprecedented convergence of environmental challenges, including rising global temperatures, erratic weather patterns, loss of biodiversity, and escalating pollution levels. These phenomena not only threaten ecosystems but also disrupt economies, exacerbate social inequalities, and jeopardize human health. Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a present-day reality that demands immediate and innovative actions. Recognizing this urgency, CCCE aims to serve as a hub for cutting-edge research, education, extension activities and policy advocacy. By leveraging VIT Chennai's strong foundation in science, technology, engineering and management, the centre seeks to develop transformative strategies in areas such as sustainable energy and technologies, environmental remediation, climate and environmental modelling, water resource management, urban planning, and climate- resilient environment. Through its multidisciplinary approach, the centre aspires to empower stakeholders at all levels—academia, industry, government, NGOs and society—to collectively address the climate and environmental crisis and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.