Redefining Aquaculture Entrepreneurship
AKSHAY MUJUMDAR
Co-Founder
HEDGE5
I n a world where the climate crisis is no longer a distant warning but a pressing reality, the call for businesses to embrace sustainability has never been louder. Leading this movement is Akshay Mujumdar, Co-founder and CEO of HEDGE5, a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to decarbonising global supply chains. His impressive career includes key roles at renowned companies such as Tata Consultancy Services and ZetWerk, where he mastered the art of business development and strategic sourcing. However, it was his deep-rooted passion for creating scalable, impactful solutions to the climate crisis that inspired him to found HEDGE5. Today, under Akshay’s leadership, HEDGE5 is tackling one of the most urgent challenges of our time: climate change, which is already costing the global economy an estimated $2 trillion annually. With industries accounting for more than 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions, HEDGE5’s decarbonisation strategies come at a pivotal moment.
“Our goal is not just to cut emissions but to empower companies to be catalysts for a greener, more resilient economy,”
His journey is a powerful example that “True entrepreneurship goes beyond profit,” and as Akshay says – “Entrepreneurship is about creating something that lasts—something that positively impacts both people and the planet.” His work at HEDGE5 proves that sustainability and profitability can thrive together, driven by innovation, passion, and a bold vision for the future. In an exclusive interview with TradeFlock, he reveals his strategies, challenges, and plans for a sustainable future, proving that business can indeed be a force for good.
What sparked your shift from ZETWERK and TCS to founding HEDGE5 and focusing on climate action?
My career in strategic sourcing and industrial IoT opened my eyes to the inefficiencies and carbon footprint within the manufacturing and supply chain industries. At ZetWerk, I saw first-hand how the demand for sustainable solutions grew, yet there was a gap in accessible, scalable models. The tipping point came when I realised that the technological innovations we implemented for efficiency could be repurposed to reduce environmental impact. That’s when the concept of HEDGE5 took root— decarbonising value chains wasn’t just an opportunity but a necessity. As a quote I live by says, “If we want to decarbonise, someone has to pick up the bill, whether it’s us as consumers or the companies taking the risk”.
What were the key challenges you faced starting HEDGE5, and how did you overcome them?
Climate action is an emerging field, and the biggest challenge has been navigating the economic and regulatory complexities. Many industries are still reluctant to invest heavily in decarbonisation because it doesn’t provide immediate financial returns Overcoming this involved two things: first, building a solution that is practical and customisable for diverse industries, and second, educating our clients on the long-term financial and reputational benefits of adopting sustainable practices. Our strategies focus on making decarbonisation both innovative and pragmatic, combining technology with actionable insights to ensure our clients stay competitive while also being responsible stewards of the environment.
What advice would you offer aspiring entrepreneurs entering the climate or sustainability sector?
My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to be prepared for a long-term commitment. The climate action sector is not a quick win; it requires patience, passion, and persistence. You need to have a deep conviction in your vision, because the road to sustainability is full of challenges, from regulatory hurdles to technological scaling. Don’t be afraid to think big, but start small—pilot your ideas, iterate based on feedback, and always keep an eye on how your solution can create both environmental and economic value.
How did transitioning from corporate leader to entrepreneur shape your biggest learning experiences?
Moving from the corporate world to running my startup, the biggest learning curve was managing the uncertainty. In established corporations like TCS, processes are well-defined, and resources are abundant. But as an entrepreneur, you must be agile, wear multiple hats, and make pivotal decisions with limited information. This experience has taught me to trust my instincts and to lead with a balance of empathy and resilience. Leadership in entrepreneurship is not about having all the answers but about being comfortable with ambiguity and empowering others to innovate in the face of it.
On tough days, what keeps you driven? Do any personal practices that help you stay grounded?
It’s easy to get bogged down by the sheer scale of the climate crisis, but what drives me is the knowledge that every small step forward brings us closer to a greener future. On difficult days, I remind myself that entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. Personally, meditation and journaling help me stay grounded, and a quote that keeps me focused on the bigger picture is:
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”
Featured Magazine -
All Magazines -
