Bhushan’s impact on public policy in the areas of environment, health, and inclusive development is not only significant but also deeply rooted in social inclusivity. His instrumental role in advocating for profit-sharing with communities affected by mining led to the establishment of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) fund, improving the socio-economic and environmental conditions of the mining areas. His efforts in promoting sustainable practices in the Indian industry have resulted in significant advancements, such as the adoption of mercury-free technology in the Chlor-Alkali industry and enhanced pollution and resource consumption standards in sectors such as thermal power, steel and paper. His work on chemical use in food has driven comprehensive reforms in pesticide and antibiotic regulations in India.

He has also shaped national and state policies by serving on 25 governmental committees. He has been on the Committee to Develop India Cooling Action Plan, the National Knowledge Network to Implement National Clean Air Program, the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, the Committee to Develop Strategy to Increase Green Cover, and many others.

Internationally, he has been at the forefront of shaping sustainability frameworks and international environemtal treaties. As the co-chair of the Measurement Working Group of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), he co-drafted the first global sustainability reporting framework in 2002. He played an influential role in building international consensus on Kigali Amendments to the Montreal Protocol to phase down climate warming HFC refrigerants. For this, he was conferred with the prestigious Ozone Award by the UN at the 30th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol. As an expert member of the BASIC countries on climate change and a Member of the Engagement Committee of Future Earth, he has advanced the global agenda on climate and sustainability issues.

Bhushan’s commitment to institutional development is evident in his role in founding the Anil Agarwal Environment Training Institute (AAETI) in Alwar, Rajasthan, a leading centre for environmental education and training. He established India’s first Fecal Sludge Management Lab at AAETI to conduct fundamental research on human waste and waste treatment technologies. In 2019, he set up iFOREST, which has quickly gained recognition as one of India’s leading environmental research organizations. Recently, he has set up the India Just Transition Centre (IJTC) to undertake research and build capacity on Just Energy Transition. As a board member of the National Accreditation Board for Education and Training (NABET), he helped establish the scheme for the accreditation of EIA consultants and auditors, demonstrating his dedication to advancing the environmental profession.

He is a columnist for India’s leading publications, such as the Times of India, Malayala Manorama, Financial Express, Navbharat Times, Deccan Herald and Gaon Connection.

Bhushan is a Civil Engineer and an Environmental Planner. He was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa Ph.D.) by NIIT University in 2023.