Harminder Dhillon

Climate Advocate

Harminder Dhillon is a Toronto-based lawyer, poet, and one of the most recognized voices in global climate advocacy within the Punjabi and South Asian diaspora. A gold medalist in engineering from Punjab Engineering College, he went on to study law and now practices as a lawyer in Canada — a rare combination of technical and legal expertise that has shaped his approach to environmental and policy work.

For the past twenty-five years, Harminder has dedicated himself to climate advocacy, currently serving as Board Chair of Canada's largest NGO committed to climate change. Under his leadership, the organization continues to drive impactful environmental initiatives at both the national and international level.

One of his most significant ongoing projects involves the historic Gurdwaras of Punjab, where he is leading efforts to install rainwater harvesting systems and solar power infrastructure — blending faith, heritage, and sustainability to protect some of the region's most sacred sites for future generations.

Alongside his environmental and legal work, Harminder is a published poet. His Punjabi poetry collection, Chah Wela, was released in 2025 to warm reception. He is currently working on three new books: a second poetry collection, a work exploring Gurbani, and a dedicated book on climate change — reflecting the way spirituality, literature, and environmental consciousness intersect in his life's work.

A familiar voice to audiences across continents, Harminder has made over 1,000 media appearances, speaking regularly on radio, television, and podcasts in Canada, the United States, India, and Australia. His ability to translate complex climate issues into accessible, culturally resonant conversations has made him a sought-after commentator and community educator.

In this special episode, Harminder Dhillon joins Radio Haanji to discuss the urgency of climate action, his rainwater harvesting and solar initiatives at Punjab's Gurdwaras, and how poetry and faith can inspire environmental responsibility.