ENVIRO ANNOTATIONS

20th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a damning revelation, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has filed a Status Report before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), exposing widespread and shocking irregularities in the operations of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) in Haryana's Rewari District. The report, submitted in compliance with NGT's orders dated 14th August 2024 and 24th September 2024, pertains to the case Prakash Yadav Vs. State of Haryana (Original Application No. 627/2022) and highlights an astonishing disregard for environmental regulations by government bodies themselves.

According to the report, all but one STP in Rewari are operating without valid Consent to Operate (CTO) – a basic legal requirement. The 3.5 MLD STP in Bawal has been operating illegally for over two years, and the 5.0 MLD STP in Dharuhera has also been non-compliant for more than a year. This blatant violation of environmental laws by state-operated facilities sends a dangerous message, undermining the credibility of the very institutions responsible for enforcing these rules.

Further scrutiny of Annexure I of the CPCB report reveals that none of the STPs are meeting the discharge standards set by the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB). The CPCB's analysis of samples collected during inspection showed that all six STPs failed to comply with discharge norms prescribed by the NGT's 2018 order in Nitin Shankar Deshpande Vs UOI & Ors. This failure is not just procedural – it is a direct threat to public health and the environment.

The CPCB report also highlights an appalling oversight regarding the disposal of treated water. The 3.5 MLD STP in Bawal discharges its treated water into Gram Panchayat land at Pawti near the Haryana-Rajasthan border, while the remaining STPs discharge into the Sahibi River Barrage. However, the CPCB inadequately addressed the compliance status of land disposal in Bawal, a matter of grave concern given that untreated sewage and sludge have been illegally dumped, posing severe health and environmental risks.

This is not merely administrative negligence – it is an outright failure of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) to enforce its own standards as well as the mandates of the NGT. Despite having the authority to monitor and regulate these STPs, the HSPCB has proven itself incapable of rectifying such blatant violations. Equally concerning is the CPCB's inability to intervene effectively, allowing the environmental degradation to continue unabated.

Environmental advocates are outraged by the authorities' laxity in handling these critical violations. The ongoing violations, particularly by government bodies, demonstrate a worrying trend of institutional incompetence, undermining efforts to protect natural resources and public health. Petitioners in the case have demanded urgent judicial intervention, hoping that the NGT will take decisive action to restore accountability and enforce compliance.

Furthermore, the existence of digital infrastructure designed for consent management and monitoring raises serious questions about the capacity and integrity of the regulatory boards. With tools at their disposal to ensure transparency and enforcement, the Boards' failure in this case speaks to deeper systemic issues within these institutions.

This case is not just a localized problem – it points to a broader challenge in the enforcement of environmental laws across the state of Haryana. Many such facilities continue to operate with impunity, flouting regulatory norms while the health and environment of millions hang in the balance. If unchecked, this negligence could set a dangerous precedent for environmental governance in India.

The petitioners, and the public at large, are awaiting swift and stern action from the NGT. Anything less would be a gross miscarriage of environmental justice.

19th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

The World Trade Organization (WTO) Secretariat, led by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will actively participate in the upcoming 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan in November 2024. The WTO’s presence at COP29 underscores the increasing recognition of trade's pivotal role in addressing climate change, with a range of trade-focused events scheduled throughout the conference.

A dedicated COP 29 portal on the WTO website will offer real-time updates on the Secretariat’s involvement, including news stories, photos, and resources related to the event. Director-General Okonjo-Iweala is set to participate in the World Leaders Climate Action Summit on 12th and 13th November, alongside other high-level engagements planned at the COP29 Trade and Investment House and other venues. The cop 29 2024 is scheduled to start from 11th November 2024. The cop 29 dates start from 11th November 2024 to 22nd November 2024.

Trade and Investment House: A prominent feature at COP29 summit will be the Trade and Investment House, hosted by Azerbaijan's Ministry of Economy in collaboration with the WTO, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), International Trade Centre (ITC), and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Similar to the approach during COP28 in the UAE, this space will focus on the intersections of trade, investment, and climate action.

The Trade and Investment House will act as a hub for interactive discussions, exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations that emphasize innovative trade and climate solutions including green finance. These activities will support the transition to a low-carbon economy while promoting sustainable development.

Climate Finance, Investment, and Trade Day: On 14th November 2024, UNFCCC COP29 will feature the Climate Finance, Green Finance, Investment, and Trade (FIT) Day, providing a platform for discussing how trade and investment can scale up climate finance flows. The focus will be on helping developing countries transition to a sustainable economy through a just transition. Key topics will include sustainable stock exchanges, decarbonizing industries like steel and hydrogen, and integrating small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into low-carbon value chains. 

To address frequently searched questions like "COP29 will be held in which country?" or "COP29 held in which country?", the answer is Azerbaijan, with the conference taking place in Baku in November 2024. The Azerbaijan COP Presidency will also showcase initiatives supporting sustainable economic transitions, including the role of climate adaptation funding, often highlighted in discussions surrounding the Adaptation Fund for Climate Change, first emphasized during COP26 and COP27.

Climate Finance and the $100 Billion Climate Fund: A major theme at COP29 will also be the progress toward the $100 billion climate finance target, a key goal set in previous conferences like COP26 and COP27. Discussions will explore the Green Climate Fund and global adaptation funds. These funding mechanisms, crucial for developing nations, are essential in financing climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. As nations work toward scaling up climate finance, there will be emphasis on both public and private sector contributions, as well as tools like blended finance to accelerate climate action.

The pavilion will also highlight collaborations like the Global Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ), previously discussed at COP26 and COP27, which aims to integrate green finance into the broader climate agenda. Additionally, key industry sectors like oil and gas and energy will present their decarbonization strategies, aligned with the overarching goals of the Paris Agreement.

This broad focus on climate finance, green finance, and decarbonization will be central to shaping COP29’s narrative and furthering global climate goals.

Publications and Knowledge Sharing: In addition to the events, the WTO Secretariat, in collaboration with its partners, will launch several publications during COP29. These reports will provide insights into how trade and investment policies can be leveraged to combat climate change, offering practical solutions for governments and the private sector.

As the world looks to accelerate climate action, the WTO’s involvement at COP29 signals an important step toward aligning global trade frameworks with climate objectives, especially in the context of supporting developing nations. Through its presence at COP29, the WTO aims to foster deeper international cooperation to tackle the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

18th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

As winter draws near and pollution levels rise across Delhi and the NCR, the Delhi government has ramped up its efforts to tackle the city's deteriorating air quality. With the air quality index in Delhi registering alarming numbers, particularly in 13 pollution hotspots, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced a series of measures to address air pollution in Delhi. The focus is on curbing the city's rising AQI levels, particularly in areas such as Wazirpur, Mundka, Rohini, and Anand Vihar, where the air quality index in Delhi today has surpassed the 300 mark.

During a meeting held at the Delhi Secretariat on Friday, Gopal Rai met with officials to discuss the implementation of strict measures aimed at combatting the city's pollution problem. Specific action plans have been designed for each of the identified hotspots to curb air pollution in Delhi NCR. To address dust pollution, the government has deployed 80 mobile anti-smog guns across the city, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has been instructed to oversee enforcement by conducting regular site visits.

Pollution Levels and Hotspot Identification: Talking about the air pollution causes and solutions

Minister Rai highlighted that Delhi's air quality index (AQI) has reached the 'poor' category, with areas like Anand Vihar, Wazirpur, and Mundka seeing AQI levels of 381, 375, and 362 respectively. Notably, Anand Vihar, a known hotspot, has consistently recorded high AQI levels due to its location near the bus station and elevated road, which sees a significant influx of diesel vehicles, contributing to the city's rising air pollution. Similarly, Rohini and Jahangirpuri are grappling with construction dust and biomass burning, which have worsened their AQI levels. However, according to the air pollution information provided by the Central Pollution Control Board as "Daily Air Quality Index" at 4 PM, based on 24 hour average, Delhi was in Poor category with AQI 292. The reason of pollution in delhi today is predominance of PM10 air pollutant. 

Nevertheless, the maximum AQI was recorded to be 320 at Kaithal in Haryana, owing to impacts of PM2.5 air pollutant. Very poor quality air due to air pollution can cause respiratory illness on prolonged exposure. The effect of air in poor category can cause breathing discomfort to most people on prolonged exposure.

The Delhi air pollution problem has garnered national attention, particularly in the context of the upcoming winter pollution season. Rai emphasized that efforts must be localized to tackle pollution, with each area requiring a tailored action plan to address its specific air pollution causes and effects.

Coordinated Efforts for Pollution Control: In light of the increasing pollution levels as per report on air pollution in delhi, coordination committees have been established for each hotspot, led by MCD Deputy Commissioners and including representatives from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Transport, and Public Works Department (PWD). These teams will focus on identifying air pollution causes effects and solutions to mitigateg local sources of pollution, such as construction-related dust, traffic emissions, and illegal dumping.

In areas like Mundka, for instance, unregulated RMC plants and unpaved roads have been identified as key sources of pollution. Other areas such as Narela are facing illegal waste dumping, contributing significantly to the worsening air quality. These hotspots are among the most affected by air pollution in Delhi during the winter season.

Deploying Mobile Anti-Smog Guns: To combat dust pollution problem in delhi, the Delhi government has deployed 80 mobile anti-smog guns across the city, with key areas like Wazirpur, Mundka, Rohini, and Anand Vihar receiving multiple units. These guns are designed to reduce PM10 and PM2.5 levels, which are known contributors to Delhi’s high pollution levels. Additionally, water sprinklers and mechanized sweeping machines will be deployed to control dust accumulation.

Looking Ahead: As air pollution in Delhi continues to worsen, particularly in Delhi NCR, the government’s efforts are becoming more aggressive. Minister Rai emphasized that while Delhi's air pollution remains a challenge, coordinated efforts between various agencies and strict monitoring by the MCD and DPCC will be key in mitigating the adverse effects of winter pollution.

With Delhi’s pollution levels climbing rapidly, particularly due to the onset of winter, the government's action plan includes frequent field inspections and enforcement measures at the identified hotspots. The deployment of resources, including mobile pollution meters and anti-smog guns, reflects the city’s commitment to reducing the impacts of environmental pollution in Delhi. The latest updates on air pollution in Delhi indicate that these measures could help in controlling the air pollution in New Delhi during this critical period. 

As people search about pollution meter, it is important to mention that air pollution in Delhi was measured at 36 out of 40 locations in Delhi. There were media report about air pollution in english newspaper that in some places in Gurugram, a commercial city in the National Capital Region, the pollution monitoring stations were harmed due to dust haze and power failure. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee also disseminates information about air pollution in delhi. 

Air pollution in simple words, refers to the presence of harmful substances in the air we breathe. These substances can include gases like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, as well as tiny particles of dust or chemicals. When these pollutants exceed safe levels, they can cause health problems for humans, animals, and plants, and contribute to environmental issues like climate change and smog. Major sources of air pollution include vehicles, factories, construction activities, and burning of fossil fuels. 

17th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a landmark move towards sustainable innovation, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology (Independent Charge), Dr. Jitendra Singh, today unveiled Pavana Chitra, India’s first airport-based self-powered indoor air quality monitoring facility at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. This facility, an off-grid air quality monitor, is powered by indigenous indoor solar cells developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), crafted using locally available materials. 

What is in indoor air quality? Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the quality of the air inside buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of the people who live or work there. It is influenced by a variety of factors, including the presence of pollutants, temperature, humidity, ventilation, and the types of activities taking place within the space.Poor IAQ can have a significant impact on human health, well-being, and productivity.  Common indoor sources of combustion pollutants include woodstoves, fireplaces, stoves, furnaces, and water heaters. The major pollutants released are carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and particles.

The introduction of this innovative technology signifies a major step in India’s ongoing efforts to tackle environmental issues through sustainable and self-sufficient solutions. The system aims to enhance the monitoring of air quality in indoor spaces, ensuring improved environmental health standards, particularly in highly frequented public spaces like airports.

During his visit, Dr. Singh emphasized India’s readiness to lead the next industrial revolution, particularly in the fields of biotechnology, space, and agriculture. He stated, “India is preparing for the next industrial revolution through initiatives like the BioE3 policy, which will accelerate green growth, innovation, and employment in the biotechnology sector.” The BioE3 policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) aims to catalyze high-performance biomanufacturing, fostering sustainable economic development and environmental conservation.

Addressing an audience of 300 SC/ST farmers and artisans, who are beneficiaries of various projects led by the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council-Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB) and Swadeshi Science Movement-Kerala (SSM-K), Dr. Singh underscored the importance of adding value to the products cultivated by Indian farmers. He described Thiruvananthapuram as the “science capital of India,” showcasing the city’s growing significance in advancing scientific research and technological innovation.

In his address, Dr. Singh also highlighted the launch of six new community projects under the Tribal Heritage Project of BRIC-RGCB. As part of the event, he released two books as part of the Science Heritage Project and felicitated award-winning farmers for their contributions to sustainable agriculture.

This development aligns with India’s broader vision of integrating science and technology to create self-sustaining solutions, foster green innovation, and contribute to the global leadership in emerging sectors like biotechnology.

People from Delhi, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Karnataka often search for indoor air quality test and indoor air quality solutions. Given the health risks associated with poor indoor air quality, particularly in urban environments where people spend a large portion of their time indoors, there is a growing need for India to address IAQ more systematically. However, India has not institutionalised any standards for indoor air quality. 

17th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

ThoughtSol Infotech Pvt. Ltd., a leading technology solutions provider, is deepening its commitment to sustainability by undertaking a comprehensive assessment of its carbon footprint. Acknowledging the environmental impact of its operations, the company aims to lead by example in environmental responsibility by measuring and disclosing its GHG emissions. This marks a significant milestone in ThoughtSol’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality and contribute to global sustainable development goals (SDGs).

The carbon footprint analysis, conducted in accordance with the globally recognized ISO 14064-1 standard and the GHG Protocol, evaluates emissions across three scopes: direct emissions from company-owned operations (Scope 1), indirect emissions from purchased electricity (Scope 2), and indirect emissions from business travel and employee commuting (Scope 3). This comprehensive approach not only sets performance benchmarks but also forms a foundation for the company’s future decarbonization efforts and ESG reporting.

Commitment to Sustainability and Carbon Neutrality

Commenting on this significant step, Mr. Vinet Kuumar, spokesperson for ThoughtSol, shared, “We at ThoughtSol are deeply aware of our environmental responsibility. This carbon footprint analysis is just the beginning of our long-term commitment to carbon neutrality and a more climate neutral future.”

By accurately measuring emissions, ThoughtSol can take informed actions to reduce them, with a focus on energy conservation, sustainable development, and supporting UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Decarbonization Action Plan for Reduced Emissions

Though the company is in the early stages of reducing its GHG emissions, it is developing a robust decarbonization strategy aimed at reaching carbon neutral status. The Decarbonization Action Plan focuses on the following key areas:

• Reduce Scope 1 emissions by 2%: This will involve policies to save energy through eco-driving training, regular vehicle maintenance, and route optimization for business trips.

• Reduce Scope 2 emissions by 2%: ThoughtSol will implement energy-saving initiatives, such as a "Switch Off" campaign for unused equipment, optimized thermostat settings, and power-saving modes on office devices. These energy conservation efforts will contribute to a mass energy save across operations.

• Reduce Scope 3 emissions by 2%: The company will encourage virtual meetings, introduce a "No Travel Week" for non-essential business trips, and promote public transportation, further contributing to reduced emissions.

• Reduce waste sent to landfills by 2%: ThoughtSol plans to introduce a comprehensive recycling program for paper, plastic, and e-waste, and encourage the use of reusable items like water bottles and coffee mugs.

Aligning with Sustainable Development and ESG Goals

ThoughtSol’s decarbonization efforts align with broader UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). The company’s focus on energy saving and emissions reduction contributes to these global objectives, while its commitment to ESG reporting ensures transparency and accountability in its progress towards carbon neutrality.

Mr. Vinet concluded, “By proactively addressing our emissions and energy use, we hope to inspire others in the industry to follow suit. Together, we can contribute to a more sustainable and climate neutral future.”

With this initiative, ThoughtSol is setting a strong example for the IT sector, proving that environmental responsibility and business success can go hand in hand. Through its decarbonization efforts and dedication to achieving carbon neutral status, ThoughtSol is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable corporate practices, contributing to global sustainable development goals.

16th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

NITI Aayog is set to host the Second International Methanol Seminar and Expo on October 17-18, 2024, at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi. This two-day event marks a significant milestone in India's Methanol Economy Programme, which began in September 2016 with the first seminar organized in collaboration with the Methanol Institute, USA.

The upcoming seminar aims to showcase advancements in projects, products, and research initiatives related to methanol production and applications. It will serve as a comprehensive platform for global experts, industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers to discuss the vital role of methanol in the global energy transition, particularly as a low-carbon fuel in green shipping.

NITI Aayog, partnering with the Methanol Institute as the Knowledge Partner, is keen to emphasize the importance of methanol in India's clean energy landscape. The Government of India has supported various R&D projects, focusing on converting high ash coal to methanol, developing Dimethyl Ether (DME), and adapting diesel engines to operate on 100% methanol and methanol-diesel blends.

In addition to the seminar, an exciting Methanol Expo will showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovations in methanol production, storage, and utilization. Participants will have the chance to engage with leading global companies and explore the latest advancements poised to transform industries such as transportation, power generation, and shipping.

Key Indian industries, including Kirloskar, Ashok Leyland, and Thermax, will present their developments in 100% methanol buses, trucks, gensets, and other advanced applications. The expo will feature a diverse array of products designed to highlight the potential of methanol as a versatile fuel sourced from domestic feedstocks like biomass, coal, and renewable resources.

As India works towards its COP commitments and aligns with global sustainability goals, the seminar will address critical themes such as:

• Methanol as a clean alternative fuel for transportation, shipping, and power generation.

• Sustainable production and scaling of methanol technologies to enhance energy security.

• Global partnerships and innovation exchanges that promote international collaboration in methanol advancements.

People often ask why is methanol toxic? and also is methanol a toxic material? Methanol is toxic because Methanol is metabolized to its toxic metabolite, formic acid/formate. Formic acid is responsible for metabolic acidosis and end-organ toxicity. End-organ toxicity includes primarily retinal damage, and possibly basal ganglia damage. One year search trend for methanol remained almost flat expect some occasions. During 16th June - 22nd June 2024 the search trend was at the peak. Search for "describe the manufacture of methanol from water gas" also peaked Search for invisible methanol fire peaked on 6th October 2024. A YouTube post The Horror of Methanol Fire shows that methanol burns with an invisible flame, making accidents involving it absolutely terrifying. Methanol is also called methyl alcohol.  

The event is expected to attract speakers from about a dozen countries, participating both physically and virtually, facilitating a rich exchange of ideas and collaboration on the future of methanol.

The International Methanol Seminar 2024 promises to be a landmark event, paving the way for innovative discussions and cooperative efforts aimed at propelling India and the global community toward a sustainable, methanol-powered future. This indicates India is likely to continue using diesel with blending options as part of its transition to cleaner fuels. The government is actively exploring the use of methanol blends in diesel (such as MD15, which contains 15% methanol) to reduce emissions and promote the use of domestic resources.

15th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

Google has taken a significant step towards decarbonizing its energy portfolio by signing a groundbreaking agreement with Kairos Power to purchase nuclear energy from multiple small modular reactors (SMRs). This marks the world's first corporate agreement for nuclear energy from SMRs.

The initial phase of the agreement aims to bring Kairos Power's first SMR online by 2030, followed by additional reactor deployments through 2035. This will provide Google with up to 500 MW of new 24/7 carbon-free power to support its operations and contribute to the clean energy transition in the United States.

Google's decision to invest in nuclear energy is driven by its commitment to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy and net-zero emissions. The company recognizes the importance of advanced nuclear reactors as a reliable and clean source of electricity that can complement renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

Kairos Power's SMR technology utilizes a molten-salt cooling system and ceramic pebble-type fuel, offering a passively safe and efficient design. The company has already made significant progress towards deploying its first power-producing reactor, having recently broken ground on its Hermes non-powered demonstration reactor in Tennessee.

By procuring electricity from multiple reactors, Google aims to accelerate the deployment of SMR technology and reduce costs. This approach is similar to the company's previous efforts in scaling enhanced geothermal energy.

Google's partnership with Kairos Power demonstrates its commitment to supporting the development and commercialization of advanced clean energy technologies. This investment has the potential to provide significant economic benefits to communities across the United States, as nuclear power is known for its high economic impact and job creation.

As Google continues to expand its clean energy portfolio, this agreement with Kairos Power represents a major milestone in its efforts to contribute to a sustainable and decarbonized future.

15th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a move to protect consumers from greenwashing, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued new guidelines that aim to promote transparency and accuracy in environmental claims. The guidelines, which were released after extensive consultation with industry stakeholders, seek to discourage deceptive marketing practices and foster a marketplace where environmental claims are both truthful and meaningful.

Key Points:

• Clear Definitions: The guidelines provide clear definitions of terms related to greenwashing and environmental claims, ensuring that both businesses and consumers have a common understanding.

• Substantiation and Disclosure: Manufacturers and service providers are required to substantiate their environmental claims with credible evidence and provide adequate disclosures to consumers.

• Prohibition of Misleading Terms: The use of vague or misleading terms such as "eco-friendly," "green," and "sustainable" without proper substantiation is prohibited.

• Third-Party Certifications: Third-party certifications can be used to substantiate environmental claims.

"We want to create a marketplace where consumers can trust the environmental claims made by companies," said Nidhi Khare, Chief Commissioner of the CCPA. "These guidelines are a step in the right direction towards promoting sustainable business practices and protecting the interests of consumers."

The CCPA's new guidelines are a significant step forward in combating greenwashing and ensuring that consumers have access to accurate and reliable information about the environmental impact of products and services. By promoting transparency and accountability, the guidelines aim to foster a more sustainable and ethical marketplace.

15th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

The World Trade Organization's Deputy Director-General, Jean-Marie Paugam, has urged governments, industries, and international organizations to work together to align carbon measurement standards. According to Paugam, this is crucial for the future of global trade and effective climate action.

Speaking at the Worldsteel General Assembly on October 14, Paugam emphasized the importance of harmonizing carbon measurement methodologies to ensure the integrity of the international trading system. He noted that as economies become greener, the ability to accurately measure environmental performance will be essential for market access.

Paugam highlighted the challenges posed by the increasing number of national climate policies, which often employ different carbon pricing strategies, subsidies, or regulations. He emphasized that while these policies are necessary for combating climate change, they can also create trade tensions if not coordinated effectively.

The WTO official stressed the role of the organization in facilitating discussions on these issues and fostering cooperation among its members. He pointed to the WTO's ongoing dialogue with the steel sector and Worldsteel on CO2 measurement as an example of how international collaboration can contribute to decarbonization efforts.

Paugam concluded by expressing optimism that by working together, governments, industries, and international organizations can ensure that global trade not only supports economic growth but also accelerates the transition to a low-carbon future.

What is WTO and its functions? The WTO sets the rules for global trade. It's an organization where most countries agree on how to trade with each other. These rules are written down in agreements that countries have signed. 

How many countries are involved with WTO? Who are the members of WTO? WTO members consist of 164 distinct nations. That is in addition to 24 observer governments (countries moving through the process of becoming members). There are only 16 countries who are neither World Trade Organization members nor observers. 

Where is the headquarter of the WTO? Geneva is a hub for international organizations. It's home to the WTO and many other groups, including the United Nations. The WTO's main office is in a building called the Centre William Rappard. This building has been used by the WTO since it was created in 1995. 

15th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

A new report from the UNCCD and FAO highlights the crucial role women play in driving global drought resilience efforts. Released on the International Day of Rural Women, Women-Led Solutions for Drought Resilience calls for greater support to amplify women’s leadership, especially in vulnerable communities.

Despite producing up to 80% of food in developing countries, women own only 20% of the land globally. The report stresses that securing women’s land rights is key to improving food security and community resilience. It also highlights the severe impact of droughts, which account for 15% of global disaster-related economic losses and 85.8% of livestock deaths.

Ibrahim Thiaw, Executive Secretary of the UNCCD, emphasized that women’s resourcefulness and leadership in tackling drought challenges are remarkable, from Africa’s Sahel to northern Kenya, Iran, and Peru. He stressed that gender equality is not only a matter of fairness but essential to unlocking potential in the fight against climate change.

The report also highlights how gender inequality exacerbates women’s vulnerability during droughts, with limited access to resources like land, water, and finances. Despite these challenges, women are spearheading solutions, including water conservation and sustainable farming practices, to help their communities adapt.

Key findings include:

• Women’s essential role in food production and the need for secure land rights to strengthen resilience.

• The significant global toll of droughts on livelihoods, particularly in rain-fed agricultural regions.

• The economic benefits of securing women’s land rights, including better household nutrition and economic stability.

With 35 case studies showcasing women-led innovations across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, the report underscores the impact of empowering women in drought resilience.

At COP16 in December 2024, discussions will focus on scaling up these efforts and ensuring gender-responsive strategies are prioritized in global drought mitigation. The report serves as a reminder that investing in women’s leadership is key to building a more resilient future in the face of climate change.

15th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a bid to encourage crop diversification and provide economic stability to farmers, the District Commissioner (DC) of Gurugram, Nishant Kumar Yadav, announced on October 15 that a special grant scheme will be implemented for planting lemon and guava orchards. This initiative, under the state’s ongoing efforts to reduce the risks associated with traditional farming, will help farmers expand their engagement in horticulture, which is seen as a sustainable alternative to conventional crop cultivation.

DC Yadav explained that the scheme aims to support farmers who are growing citrus, guava, and other high-density orchards. Through this special grant, the state government seeks to bolster horticultural activities, which have the potential to provide stable income streams to farmers. As part of the scheme, the Horticulture Department will provide subsidies for planting and maintaining orchards, including lemon, guava, citrus, and even strawberries.

Key Features of the Scheme

Under the new grant scheme, farmers will receive an incentive of ₹43,000 per acre for establishing high-density orchards. In addition to this initial planting support, the state will also offer maintenance grants, structured as follows:

• First Year: ₹23,000 for orchard upkeep

• Second and Third Years: ₹10,000 annually for ongoing maintenance

This financial assistance is part of the broader strategy to promote the growth of horticulture in the district, aiming to increase the acreage dedicated to these high-value crops and reduce the reliance on traditional, risk-prone agricultural practices.

Importance of Horticulture for Farmers

The initiative is particularly significant in the current context, where urbanization and residential construction are rapidly expanding. Many households, once surrounded by open spaces for domestic gardening and fruit-bearing trees, are now opting for concrete structures, leaving little room for cultivation. This shift has diminished opportunities for growing home-based fruits like lemon and guava, which have long been part of traditional Indian agriculture.

Lemon, often a household staple, is known for its impressive health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, it plays a crucial role in boosting immunity, supporting skin health, and improving iron absorption. Its antioxidant properties help combat cell damage, making it a valuable addition to daily diets. Similarly, guava, the fourth most important fruit in India after mango, banana, and citrus, boasts a range of health benefits. Guava aids in lowering blood sugar levels, supports heart health, relieves menstrual pain, and even enhances skin health. Its rich nutritional profile makes it an essential fruit for both consumption and commercial cultivation.

Registration and Eligibility

Neha Yadav, the District Horticulture Officer, elaborated on the procedure for farmers to avail themselves of the benefits under this scheme. Farmers interested in planting lemon or guava orchards must source their plants from recognized nurseries. These plants can be obtained either from government-certified centers of excellence or other NHB-recognized nurseries, a full list of which is available at www.nhb.gov.in.

To be eligible for the grant, it is mandatory for farmers to register their horticultural crops on the Meri Fasal Mera Byora portal. Furthermore, registration on the Horticulture Department's official portal at https://hortnet.gov.in is also required, along with the submission of all necessary documents. The department will prioritize applications on a first-come, first-serve basis, making it crucial for interested farmers to complete their registration promptly.

Each farmer can avail a subsidy for a maximum of 10 acres under this scheme. This special grant scheme is a timely and important step in promoting horticultural diversification in Gurugram, offering significant economic benefits to farmers while ensuring the long-term sustainability of agricultural practices in the region. By fostering the cultivation of high-value crops like lemon and guava, the government hopes to reduce farming risks and provide farmers with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly volatile agricultural landscape.

15th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

The annual Steelie Awards, organized by the World Steel Association, celebrated the outstanding achievements of member companies in the steel industry. The awards recognize innovative efforts in steel production, sustainability, and corporate responsibility, highlighting the industry's commitment to excellence and progress.

This year's Excellence in Low-Carbon Steel Production award was bestowed upon China Baowu Steel Group Corporation Limited for their groundbreaking HyCROF commercial demonstration project. This innovative project showcases the company's dedication to reducing carbon emissions and developing sustainable steel production processes.

The Innovation of the Year award went to POSCO for their Innovative PosZET® welding technology. This technology offers a more eco-friendly, lightweight, and cost-effective solution for producing auto parts, demonstrating POSCO's commitment to technological advancement and sustainability.

Gerdau S.A. was honored with the Excellence in Sustainability award for their exemplary ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) in the supply chain practices. This recognition highlights Gerdau's dedication to responsible sourcing and sustainable operations.

In the category of Excellence in Life Cycle Assessment, Tata Steel received the award for their innovative LCA methodology in multifunctional and circular systems. This approach demonstrates Tata Steel's commitment to assessing the environmental impact of their products throughout their entire lifecycle.

Tata Steel was also recognized with the Safety and Health Award in the Process Safety Management category by worldsteel. The company developed an innovative solution to ensure the integrity of gas lines carrying hazardous gases, which is vital for preventing explosions in the gas cleaning plant area of the blast furnace. Their new purging system enables real-time monitoring of the process, utilizing remote-operated valves and strategically placed gas analyzers to safely remove hazardous gases. This advancement allows operators to control the purging process from the control room, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency. 

POSCO was also recognized for its Excellence in Education and Training with their Quality-Safety-Stability (QSS) training program. This program highlights POSCO's dedication to developing a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.

Finally, the Excellence in Communications Programs award went to POSCO for their Fantasteel initiative. This program showcases POSCO's commitment to effective communication and engagement with stakeholders.

The Steelie Awards serve as a platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements of the steel industry. By highlighting innovative practices and contributions to sustainability, these awards inspire industry leaders to continue pushing the boundaries of excellence and drive positive change in the sector.

15th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

The Indian government is making significant strides in its push for biofuels, with a focus on reducing fossil fuel dependency and promoting a greener economy. This was the key message conveyed by Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Hardeep Singh Puri at the 12th CII Bioenergy Summit in New Delhi.

Minister Gadkari highlighted the progress made in ethanol blending, stating that research on blending 15% ethanol in diesel is in advanced stages. India has successfully increased ethanol blending in petrol from 1.53% in 2014 to 15% in 2024, surpassing its target of 10% five months ahead of schedule. The government aims to reach 20% blending in petrol by 2025.

To further accelerate ethanol adoption, the government is focusing on building an ethanol ecosystem, including the establishment of ethanol pumps and the launch of ethanol-powered vehicles. Four states—Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra—are leading the way in this initiative.

Minister Gadkari also emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of stubble burning, which contributes significantly to air pollution in India. He mentioned that Indian Oil has set up a plant in Panipat to utilize stubble as biomass, reducing its impact on the environment.

Minister Puri echoed Gadkari's sentiments, highlighting the government's commitment to biofuels and its positive impact on the economy and environment. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach to energy, considering availability, affordability, and sustainability.

The summit also featured addresses from international dignitaries, including the Ambassador of Brazil, who underscored the shared challenges faced by India and Brazil due to climate change and the importance of a global transition to renewable energy.

Overall, the CII Bioenergy Summit showcased India's growing momentum in the biofuel sector and its potential to contribute to a more sustainable and energy-independent future.

13th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

The air quality of the national capital, Delhi's daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) registered 224 today, according to the 4 PM AQI Bulletin released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The situation prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to convene and assess the current air quality scenario alongside forecasts for meteorological conditions provided by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

The Sub-Committee noted a marked rise in Delhi's AQI due to episodic events that contributed to air pollution levels from last night until about noon today. However, positive news emerged as the pollutant concentrations began to decline, with the AQI improving to 222 by 5 PM. This trend indicates a hopeful outlook, with expectations of further improvement in air quality over time. Forecasts from IMD and IITM suggest that Delhi's overall AQI may soon revert to the ‘Moderate’ category, a welcome relief for residents concerned about air pollution.

In a broader assessment of the National Capital Region (NCR), eight cities reported a 'Poor' category AQI today, a sharp increase from just two cities classified in the same category on Saturday. Muzaffarnagar continues to be the most polluted city in the NCR, recording an alarming AQI of 267. Ghaziabad closely follows with an AQI of 265, while Hapur has also seen a degradation in air quality, registering an AQI of 253, a significant rise from yesterday's 201. In these cities, PM2.5 remains the predominant air pollutant.

Contrastingly, Sonipat reported the lowest AQI among the NCR cities at just 62, providing a stark comparison to its more polluted counterparts. Notably, Muzaffarnagar has been identified as the worst polluted city among 244 cities across India. The CPCB's AQI data for Muzaffarnagar and Hapur is derived from monitoring at single locations, while Ghaziabad benefits from a network of four monitoring stations, offering a more comprehensive view of air quality in the area.

The CPCB has indicated that an AQI categorized as 'Poor' can lead to breathing discomfort for most individuals with prolonged exposure, raising public health concerns. Following a thorough review of the air quality situation and its related factors, the Sub-Committee unanimously decided to monitor the situation closely for at least another day before considering the implementation of Stage-I of GRAP.

Interestingly, the CAQM has not issued any statements regarding the burning of symbolic Ravana effigies, an activity traditionally associated with Dusshera celebrations. As raised by Enviro Annotations, questions remain about whether the increase in AQI could be linked to these ceremonial burns on the eve of the festival. The upcoming days will be critical for both monitoring air quality trends and understanding the potential impact of such cultural practices on the environment. Read our previous report: CAQM Cracks Down on Stubble Burning, Stays Silent on Dusshera Effigy Fires https://www.enviroannotations.com/news#h.igs476i4vgvt

As the situation unfolds, residents and authorities alike remain vigilant, hoping for a swift return to improved air quality and a reduction in pollution levels across the region.

More reports on Delhi Air Pollution and CAQM: Watch on Youtube

CAQM Directs NCR SPCBs and DPCC to Enhance Addressing Air Quality Complaints https://www.enviroannotations.com/news#h.5fy82vm1uucm

Govt. Ramp Up Efforts to Combat Paddy Stubble Burning https://www.enviroannotations.com/news#h.o08jn91lye7

CAQM Announces Revised GRAP Schedule for Delhi-NCR Ahead of Winter Season https://www.enviroannotations.com/news#h.w1j8l2yly8xj

CAQM Orders Electric Heaters for Security Staff to Curb Winter Burning https://www.enviroannotations.com/news#h.6boa8q5bb2aa

CAQM Sets Ambitious Plantation Drive for NCR https://www.enviroannotations.com/news#h.5g711dbcg3t4

Regulated operations of Diesel Generator (DG) sets in NCR to Tackle Air Pollution https://www.enviroannotations.com/news#h.9quyarr9s528

Farmers liable to pay environmental compensation on stubble burning https://www.enviroannotations.com/news#h.abtaxgf3r9i0

13th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a significant move towards positioning India as a global leader in the economy and a key player in environmental sustainability, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, inaugurated India's first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in Jejuri, Pune. The facility, established by Praj Industries, symbolizes a leap forward in the nation’s commitment to eco-friendly solutions.

Biopolymers are polymers produced by or derived from living organisms, such as plants and microbes, rather than from petroleum, the traditional source of polymers. The primary sources of biopolymers are renewable. 

What are biopolymers with examples? Polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are two examples of biopolymers found in microorganisms or genetically modified organisms utilizing traditional chemical methods. These include polysaccharides from cellulose and proteins from collagen or milk.

During the inauguration, Dr. Singh highlighted that this pioneering facility focuses on the production of Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastic, an essential step in transitioning from fossil-based plastics to sustainable alternatives. "This facility exemplifies how technological advancements in bioplastics can lead to economic growth and addresses the pressing global plastic pollution crisis," he stated.

This statement answers the question, "Is a biopolymer a plastic?" A biopolymer is a type of plastic made by the cells of living organisms. Unlike synthetic plastics, which are usually derived from petrochemicals, bioplastics are typically made from natural and renewable biomass resources.  

Dr. Singh emphasized India's growing bioeconomy, which surpassed $150 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $300 billion by 2030. He attributed this progress to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India self-reliant (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and his commitment to a 'Net Zero' carbon economy.

The Minister pointed to the Union Budget 2023-2024’s focus on Green Growth, aligning with initiatives like the ‘Lifestyle for the Environment’ (LiFE) launched by the Prime Minister. These efforts aim to promote biosafety, ethics, and inclusive growth while supporting sustainable development amidst climate change and resource depletion.

India currently ranks 12th globally in biotechnology and third in the Asia-Pacific region. The country's biotech ecosystem has seen remarkable growth, with over 8,500 startups emerging since 2014, thanks to the establishment of 95 bio-incubators.

Dr. Singh underscored the importance of collaboration between industry, academia, and government in transforming innovative ideas into tangible solutions. He expressed optimism about the future, urging for broader synergy among all sectors to realize the goals of the "Amrit Kaal" vision over the next 25 years, positioning India as a global player in biotechnology.

This facility not only represents a new chapter in India’s bioeconomy but also sets a precedent for sustainable practices and innovation in bioplastics, demonstrating the potential of biotechnology in fostering a cleaner and greener planet.

People  also ask What are the 5 biopolymers? Biopolymers include animal protein-based materials like wool, silk, gelatin, and collagen, as well as polysaccharides like cellulose and starch, which are produced by bacteria and fungi. Carbohydrate-based biopolymers are especially promising for biomedical applications in various forms. 

People often Google about Praj Industries, including what the company does, whether it produces ethanol, and if it is a sugar company. Others are interested in the investment potential of Praj Industries, its status as a multinational corporation (MNC), and who the owner of the company is. 

12th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a significant move to tackle the rising incidents of paddy stubble burning, which have severely impacted air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has authorized district-level authorities in key states to prosecute officials for failing to enforce stubble burning regulations. This decision is aimed at ensuring strict enforcement of anti-stubble burning measures during the ongoing harvest season in the affected regions of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

The CAQM, exercising its powers under Section 14 of the CAQM Act 2021, has empowered Deputy Commissioners, District Collectors, and District Magistrates in these states, along with the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, to file complaints before jurisdictional judicial magistrates. These complaints can target officials, including nodal officers, supervisory officers, and Station House Officers, who fail to enforce preventive measures against stubble burning in their respective jurisdictions.

This step follows a rise in stubble burning incidents, with 267 and 187 paddy residue burning events reported between 15th September and 9th October 2024 in Punjab and Haryana, respectively. Despite previous years' efforts to curb this unsustainable practice, the issue remains a significant contributor to deteriorating air quality across northern India.

The CAQM's action plan for 2024 builds upon its field experiences from 2021, 2022, and 2023, with the goal of eliminating paddy stubble burning. To bolster these efforts, the CAQM has directed district administrations and state governments to take on greater responsibility in maintaining constant vigilance and deploying necessary resources to prevent stubble burning during the harvest season.

To further strengthen monitoring and enforcement, the CAQM has deployed 26 central teams to hotspot districts in Punjab and Haryana. These teams will collaborate closely with district authorities to optimize the use of in situ and ex situ stubble management solutions, such as using crop residue for biofuel production or incorporating it into the soil. Additionally, a "Paddy Stubble Management Cell" has been set up in Chandigarh to ensure coordinated action and continuous monitoring of efforts on the ground.

Stubble burning, often practiced by farmers to quickly clear fields for the next crop cycle, has been identified as a major source of air pollution in NCR and adjoining areas. The resulting smog affects millions of residents, contributing to public health crises and economic losses. The CAQM has been working in collaboration with the state governments of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, the Government of NCT of Delhi, and various pollution control boards and institutions to address this pressing issue.

By authorizing district authorities to hold officials accountable, the CAQM aims to ensure that stubble burning is tackled at its roots, fostering a cleaner and healthier environment across northern India during this critical period.

Notably, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at 4 PM on 12th October 2024 indicated that Muzaffarnagar, an NCR city, was the most polluted among 252 cities across India, with an AQI value of 241. Hapur, also in Uttar Pradesh, recorded the second-highest AQI (201) among NCR cities. The CPCB's AQI data for both Muzaffarnagar and Hapur is based on monitoring from single locations in each city. In both cities, the AQI was categorized as 'Poor,' which can cause breathing discomfort for most people with prolonged exposure. PM2.5 was reported as the predominant air pollutant.

In comparison, Delhi reported a 'Moderate' AQI of 155, with PM2.5 and PM10 identified as the main pollutants. The lowest AQI among NCR cities was 39, recorded in Palwal, Haryana, which was the only city to fall under the 'Good' category for the day, with PM10 being the predominant pollutant.

Despite the air quality concerns, the CAQM has not issued any statement regarding the burning of symbolic Ravana effigies, an activity widely expected during the Dusshera celebrations.

Interestingly, Hyderabad, the city where India posted 297/6 in international t-20 cricket match against Bangladesh, quoted Satisfactory AQI value of 55. PM10 was the predominant in Hyderabad when India blew it away against Bangladesh. India's score is the second highest total in t20 international. Nepal has the record of highest team total in t20. Nepal records 314/3 against Mongolia on 27th September 2023, which is the highest t20 score in international, as on date.

11th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

Two major developments in the electric vehicle (EV) market have emerged. China has initiated a WTO dispute against Türkiye over its restrictive measures on Chinese EV imports. Meanwhile, EV sales in the United States have surged but are hampered by the slower rollout of public charging stations.

China Challenges Türkiye's EV Restrictions

China has formally requested WTO dispute consultations with Türkiye regarding various measures imposed on Chinese EV imports. These measures include additional duties, import certificate requirements, and restrictions on investment. China argues that these measures violate WTO rules and unfairly discriminate against Chinese EVs.

US EV Sales Soar, but Charging Infrastructure Lags

According to Reuters, EV registrations in the United States have experienced a remarkable 140% increase since the start of 2023. As of September 2024, registrations have reached just over 3.5 million, surpassing the previous record of 1.4 million in 2023.

However, the growth of public EV charging stations has been significantly slower, increasing by only 22% to 176,032 units during the same period. This disparity poses a risk of charging station congestion and may deter potential EV buyers concerned about wait times for recharging.

The increase in EV registrations is not evenly distributed across the United States. California remains the largest EV market, followed by Florida and Texas. Ten states, including California, Florida, Texas, Washington, New Jersey, New York, Illinois, Georgia, Colorado, and Arizona, account for nearly 70% of the overall EV registration growth. Oklahoma witnessed the most significant year-over-year increase in EV registrations, with a 218% rise. Arkansas, Michigan, Maryland, South Carolina, and Delaware also experienced substantial growth, exceeding 180%.

Indian Scenario

Under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) II scheme as of 11th October 2024, a total of 1,671,606 EVs have been sold. This includes 23,311 four-wheelers, 1,469,343 two-wheelers, and 179,952 three-wheelers. Delhi leads the way with 7,613 four-wheelers sold, followed by 4822 in  Karnataka.

Environmental Impact: The government has declared the figures, which shows massive cut of CO2 emission. This is significant at a time when World CO2 emissions rose by 1.8% last year, with world gross domestic product grew 2.9%. 

• • Fuel saved per day: 1,411,325 liters

  • Total fuel saved: 42,987,507 liters

  • CO2 reduced per day: 3,367,788 kg

  • Total CO2 reduced: 102,516,765 kg

11th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

The Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) has taken stringent action against Visa Steel Ltd., an integrated steel plant located in Kalinganagar Industrial Complex. The board has issued a show cause notice to the company on 9th October 2024, under various sections of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981 and Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974.

The show cause notice alleges that Visa Steel Ltd. has been discharging wastewater into the environment that does not meet the prescribed standards. Specifically, the board found that the runoff water from the plant contained excessive levels of phenolic compounds and cyanide. These pollutants pose a significant threat to the environment and public health.

According to the OSPCB, despite repeated warnings and opportunities to rectify the issue, Visa Steel Ltd. has failed to comply with the board's directives. Visa Steel reportedly discharing run off water from the plant to outside through Culvert-1, Culvert-2. Culvert-3. Samples were collected from draing discharge points of the culverts and also from culvert marked as culvert-4. The cyanide concentration in the discharged wastewater was found to be between 0.305 ppm (parts per million) and 0.332 ppm, exceeding the statutory limit of 0.2 ppm. Similarly, the phenolic compound levels were between 1.367 ppm and 1.526 ppm, surpassing the specified limit of 1.0 ppm.

The OSPCB has emphasized the seriousness of the matter, citing the presence of these harmful pollutants in the discharged water. The board has demanded a response from Visa Steel Ltd. within a 15 days, outlining the steps the company will take to address the pollution issue and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

People often ask, "Is Visa Steel a good company?" According to AmbitionBox, a platform founded in 2015 by IIT Madras alumni to help with job search prep and later acquired by Naukri.com, Visa Steel is rated 3.8 out of 5 stars based on 179 company reviews. Another common question is, "What does Visa Steel do?" and "What is Visa Steel's rank in India?" An internet post from March 2024 claims that Visa Steel is the third-largest steel company in India. Interestingly, searches for Visa Steel are often associated with "good manufacturing practice". 

11th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a significant step towards improving public transportation, Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot and MLA Parmila Tokas today launched the trial run of Mohalla buses on the Munirka-Vasant Kunj circular route.

The 10.8 km-long route, starting from the Vasant Vihar Depot, connects key areas like Ambience Mall, DLF on Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj Institutional Area, and various sectors of Vasant Kunj. This new service is expected to greatly benefit residents, particularly students, in the surrounding neighborhoods.

Minister Gahlot emphasized the Mohalla bus service's role in providing convenient and accessible transportation, especially to underserved areas. He highlighted its importance in enhancing connectivity to educational institutions, hospitals, and commercial hubs, reducing reliance on private vehicles, and contributing to a cleaner, greener city.

The Mohalla buses, equipped with six battery packs and offering a range of over 200 km, feature 23 passenger seats and a standing capacity of 13 passengers. For passenger convenience, 25% of the seats are reserved for women.

The Delhi government plans to introduce a total of 2,180 Mohalla buses by 2025, catering to areas with limited road width or overcrowding. These buses will help improve first and last-mile connectivity, especially in areas where larger buses face operational challenges.

Key Features of the Mohalla Bus Service:

• Route: Munirka-Vasant Kunj circular route

• Length: 10.8 km

• Capacity: 23 seats, 13 standing passengers

• Range: 200+ km

• Battery: Six battery packs with a total capacity of 196KW

• Charging: Opportunity charging of 45 minutes

• Color: Green for easy identification

• Women's seats: 25% of seats (6 seats) reserved for women

• Fare: Same as AC buses (₹10, ₹15, ₹20, ₹25)

• Pink passes: Women can avail free rides

The Delhi government has constructed 16 depots across the city to accommodate Mohalla Buses, ensuring efficient operations and maintenance.

This initiative is part of the Delhi government's broader plan to expand the Mohalla bus service to underconnected areas throughout the city. By providing reliable and accessible transportation options, the government aims to improve the quality of life for Delhiites and contribute to a more sustainable urban environment.

11th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

Calling all brilliant minds! The Government of India is seeking nominations for the prestigious National Science Awards (RVP), recognizing outstanding achievements in science, technology, and innovation. This year, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) under the Ministry of Science and Technology proudly presents these awards. The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar-2025 nominations were announced on 7th October, and Gurugram administration has further circulated them today. 

Four Categories to Honor Excellence:

• Lifetime Achievement (Vigyan Ratna): Up to three awards will be bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions throughout their careers in science and technology.

• Outstanding Contribution (Vigyan Shri): A maximum of 25 scientists or technologists will be celebrated for their remarkable achievements in these fields.

• Encouraging Young Talent (Vigyan Yuva - Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awards): Up to 25 rising stars in science and technology will be recognized for their exceptional work, inspiring future generations.

• Power of Collaboration (Vigyan Team): Teams of three or more scientists or researchers can share the glory through a maximum of three awards, acknowledging the power of teamwork in scientific breakthroughs.

Broad Spectrum of Recognition:

The awards encompass a vast range of scientific disciplines, including Physics, Medicine, Engineering, Agriculture, Space Science, and more. A total of 13 fields are represented, ensuring a diverse pool of nominees.

How to Nominate:

Get your applications ready! Submissions are open until November 17, 2024, through the Awards Portal of the Ministry of Home Affairs: https://awards.gov.in/. This portal also provides detailed information about the award categories and guidelines.

Celebration of Innovation:

The much-anticipated announcement of the award winners will occur on National Technology Day, May 11th, 2025. This event promises to be a grand celebration of Indian scientific talent and innovation.

Don't miss this opportunity to nominate yourself or a deserving candidate! Let's honor the scientific minds shaping India's future!

People often ask who won Vigyan Ratna and search about the National Science Award 2024. One of the most prestigious awards, the Vigyan Ratna, was bestowed upon Professor Govindarajan Padmanabhan for his groundbreaking contributions in molecular biology and biotechnology. 

Who is eligible for Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar? Scientists, researchers, and individuals who have significantly contributed to their respective fields in science and technology are eligible for the award. 

11th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

A collaborative effort between the Transportation Research and Injury Prevention Centre (TRIP-C) at IIT Delhi and HumanQind has successfully conducted workshops to raise awareness about the impact of extreme heat, particularly on women, and to explore potential solutions.

Funded by UKAid through the High Volume Transport (HVT) program, the workshops engaged parents and children from three Delhi schools to discuss strategies for mitigating the effects of rising temperatures on commuters.

Dr. Deepty Jain, Assistant Professor at TRIP-C, shared insights from a research project that revealed women's heightened vulnerability to heat during daytime travel. The workshops, held from October 5th to 8th, aimed to foster community engagement and develop practical solutions.

"By involving parents and children, we were able to identify challenges and explore innovative approaches," Dr. Jain explained. "The workshops focused on strategies like providing temporary shade, enhancing green spaces, ensuring access to drinking water, and promoting personal preparedness with umbrellas and water bottles."

Ruchi Varma of HumanQind emphasized the importance of community-driven solutions. "The workshops led to the creation of a DIY 'Ambi-Kit,' a collection of practical tools and strategies that individuals and communities can implement to combat extreme heat."

Jyotsna Jha, a teacher at DAV Public School, praised the interactive format of the workshops, which encouraged active participation and learning.

This initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing the pressing issue of climate change and its impact on urban populations. By empowering parents and children, IIT Delhi and HumanQind are taking a significant step towards creating more resilient and sustainable communities.

10th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

A senior World Trade Organization (WTO) official has urged countries to implement well-designed trade policies to accelerate the transition to clean energy. Deputy Director-General Angela Ellard emphasized the crucial role of trade in addressing the climate crisis and fostering sustainable development.

Addressing the Hamburg Sustainability Conference on October 7, Ellard highlighted several ways in which trade policies can support the clean energy transition. These include lowering the cost of renewable energy, decarbonizing supply chains, harmonizing standards, redirecting subsidies from fossil fuels to sustainable initiatives, and creating new economic opportunities in emerging low-carbon markets.

Ellard acknowledged the challenges posed by existing trade policies, such as tariff disparities favoring high-carbon goods and the complexity of global carbon pricing schemes. She called for countries to reassess tariffs on renewable energy equipment and work towards greater interoperability in carbon pricing frameworks.

The WTO official also stressed the importance of redirecting harmful subsidies from fossil fuels to support nature-positive initiatives. She pointed to the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted by WTO members in 2022, as a model for how countries can collaborate to eliminate environmentally harmful subsidies and promote sustainable practices.

Ellard emphasized the immense opportunities for developing economies to benefit from the clean energy transition. However, she noted that targeted trade policy actions are essential to harness this potential, including aligning standards, implementing green procurement practices, and creating a conducive investment climate.

Looking ahead to the COP29 climate conference, Ellard highlighted the WTO Secretariat's efforts to promote the integration of climate finance, investment, and trade. She mentioned the launch of "Trade Policy Tools for Climate Action" at COP28 and the joint report with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) on "International Trade in Green Hydrogen."

Ellard concluded by emphasizing the need for collaboration among WTO members to achieve a sustainable clean energy transition. She reaffirmed the WTO Secretariat's commitment to supporting countries in creating a global trade environment that leverages trade tools to achieve environmental goals and bolster the resilience of renewable energy supply chains.

10th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

Indian sustainability solutions platform Onlygood.ai has raised ₹4 crore ($500,000) in a seed funding round, marking a significant step forward in its mission to simplify carbon management for businesses.

The funding, secured in August 2024, comes from prominent investors including the IIT Madras Incubation Cell (IITMIC) and the Goel Group. Notably, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) has also participated, securing the right to purchase a 1.5% equity stake.

The capital injection will fuel Onlygood.ai's global expansion plans, with a focus on scaling operations across India and the Middle East. The company also aims to enter the European market later this year.

Empowering Businesses with Sustainability Tools

Founded in 2020, Onlygood.ai tackles the pressing issue of carbon emissions by providing businesses with a user-friendly platform to measure, track, and reduce their environmental footprint. Their "Decarb Navigator" and "Decarb X-celerator" solutions offer a comprehensive approach to sustainability management.

After successful beta testing in 2022, Onlygood.ai gained traction with industry leaders like Maruti-Suzuki and DICV. These early partnerships solidified the company's position as a sustainability innovator. Their strong relationships with institutions like IITMIC further paved the way for collaborations with NTTData, Luminory Advisors, and Envex, a carbon exchange platform.

Strategic Growth and Global Ambition

The seed funding will empower Onlygood.ai to expand its team, enhance product features, and bolster its technological infrastructure to facilitate global scaling.

"The support from IITMIC and our investors validates our vision for a sustainable future," said Onlygood.ai Founder & CEO Rajeev Sinha. "This funding will fuel our global reach and empower businesses worldwide to implement impactful sustainability solutions."

The company plans to prioritize research and development, focusing on automating carbon footprint tracking and management tools. Additionally, Onlygood.ai will strengthen its local presence by collaborating with Indian integrators like NTTData and Blue Ocean Steel to offer customized solutions tailored to specific regulatory and sustainability needs.

Expanding Horizons: Middle East and Europe

With a Dubai office established earlier this year, Onlygood.ai is poised for rapid expansion across the Middle East. They recently secured their first international client, Century Financials, in Dubai. European market entry is also on the horizon for later this year, with partnerships established with Blue Ocean Steel and Envex for comprehensive sustainability solutions.

Series A Round and Beyond

Following the seed funding success, Onlygood.ai is already planning a Series A round for mid-2025, aiming to raise $8-10 million. These funds will fuel further expansion into Western markets, with a specific focus on North America. Additionally, the company plans to enhance its product features.

"We are committed to leading the charge in corporate sustainability," said Vivek Mehra, Co-Founder and Chief Sustainability Officer at Onlygood.ai. "The Series A round will empower us to offer our world-class solutions to businesses globally, helping them navigate increasingly stringent environmental regulations."

Beyond Business: A Commitment to Social Impact

Beyond business growth, Onlygood.ai prioritizes social impact by supporting Shiksha Prayas, an educational initiative, and Reset Planet, a large-scale afforestation project focused on ecosystem restoration in North India. This dedication underlines the company's commitment to building a greener, more sustainable future for all.

10th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

A workshop organized by the Autonomous Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI) on the occasion of National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day brought together experts from various sectors to discuss the challenges and prospects of commercializing hydrogen energy.

Dr. R Vijay, Director of ARCI, stressed the importance of reducing hydrogen production costs to make it more competitive in the market. He highlighted ARCI's role in transferring hydrogen technologies and supporting startups in the energy sector.

Prof. Mohammad Rihan, Director General of the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), emphasized the synergy between solar energy and hydrogen technologies, offering a sustainable pathway to green energy. He mentioned ARCI and NISE's collaboration on integrating solar power with electrolyzers for green hydrogen generation.

Dr. R. Gopalan, Former Regional Director of ARCI, Chennai, highlighted the need for a circular economy in hydrogen production and India's emerging leadership in green ammonia synthesis.

Eminent speakers from High Energy Batteries, Ashok Leyland, and the Global Automotive Research Centre discussed the critical role of hydrogen in the Indian automotive market, focusing on transportation applications and the challenges and potential for growth.

Several startups shared their experiences in hydrogen production and utilization, highlighting challenges such as cost, infrastructure development, and regulatory barriers. Participants explored strategies to reduce costs and make hydrogen more economically viable.

The workshop underscored the need for collaboration between industry, academia, and research institutions to achieve a hydrogen economy in India. ARCI is playing a pivotal role in fostering these partnerships. This year's workshop marked a significant step in India's journey towards a green energy future. The discussions and insights shared will contribute to the development of hydrogen technologies that can reshape the global energy landscape. 

People ask how is hydrogen produced commercially? Hydrogen can be produced from various sources and through different methods for use as a fuel. The two most common methods of producing hydrogen are steam-methane reforming and electrolysis, which involves splitting water using electricity. 

What is a commercial use for hydrogen? Hydrogen is produced on a commercial basis today – it is used as a feedstock in the chemical industry and in refineries, as part of a mix of gases in steel production, and in heat and power generation. Nearly all hydrogen consumed in the United States is used by industry for refining petroleum, treating metals, producing fertilizer and other chemicals, and processing foods. U.S. petroleum refineries use hydrogen to lower the sulfur content of fuels.

Who is the largest producer of hydrogen in India? Adani Green Energy is said to be the leading green hydrogen manufacturing company in India, having made significant investments in green and other renewable energy sources. 

10th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

Maxvolt Energy Industries PLC, a leading manufacturer of lithium battery packs, has significantly ramped up production capacity to meet the surge in demand during the festive season. The company has doubled its output from 21 MWH to 42.5 MWH, ensuring timely deliveries to customers.

Established in 2019, Maxvolt has witnessed a steady rise in demand for its lithium battery packs, which are used in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and medical devices. To further boost sales during the festive season, the company has introduced attractive offers, including extended warranties and discounts for old batteries.

Maxvolt prides itself on offering a wide range of lithium battery packs for various applications. The company is also committed to sustainability, focusing on extending the lifespan of old batteries through innovative reuse techniques.

"Diwali is a time for holistic celebration and introducing positive changes to life," said Satendra Shukla, Chief Business Officer at Maxvolt Energy. "By choosing Maxvolt batteries, individuals and businesses can contribute to a happier life and reduce their carbon footprint."

With a focus on innovation and quality, Maxvolt aims to develop world-class lithium battery architectures for sectors such as electric bikes, scooters, and solar energy systems. The company is committed to adhering to global standards and technological advancements.

9th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

As the world increasingly relies on digital technologies, it's crucial to understand their environmental impact. The Centre for Software and Information Technology Management (CSITM) at IIM Bangalore is hosting a panel discussion on October 16, 2024, to shed light on the unintended consequences of digital and information systems (IS) technology proliferation.

The webinar will bring together a panel of experts from diverse fields, including environmental engineering, technology leadership, and sustainability. They will delve into the environmental costs associated with the entire lifecycle of digital and IS technologies, from manufacturing to disposal.

Key topics to be discussed include:

• Historical trends and current challenges: The panel will explore how the environmental impact of digital technology has evolved over time and the current challenges faced in mitigating its negative effects.

• The role of smart and green technologies: The discussion will delve into the potential of innovative technologies to reduce the environmental footprint of digital systems and promote sustainability.

• Global and local perspectives: The panel will examine the environmental impact of digital technology from both global and local perspectives, highlighting the unique challenges faced by different regions.

• E-waste management: The webinar will address the growing problem of e-waste and discuss strategies for responsible recycling and circularity.

Panelists:

• Krish Vijayaraghavan: A seasoned environmental expert with over 20 years of experience, Krish Vijayaraghavan brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion.

• Dr. Jyoti Bhat: With her extensive experience in the IT industry and her passion for digital technologies, Dr. Jyoti Bhat offers a unique perspective on the intersection of technology and sustainability.

• Keerthi D Souza: As a sustainability professional, Keerthi D Souza brings a deep understanding of the environmental challenges facing our planet.

• Dr. Uttam Doraswamy: With his expertise in e-waste recycling, Dr. Uttam Doraswamy provides valuable insights into the circular economy and sustainable technology practices.

• Dr. Vivek: As an independent researcher, Dr. Vivek offers a fresh perspective on the behavioral and environmental aspects of digital technology.

The panel discussion will be followed by a Q&A session, giving participants an opportunity to engage with the experts and learn more about the environmental implications of digital technology.

9th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

Minister of State for Environment, Forest, Climate Change, and External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, conducted an inspection of the Delhi Zoological Park on Wednesday. The primary focus of his visit was to assess the health and care arrangements for Shankar, the African elephant residing at the zoo. During the inspection, Singh engaged in discussions with the elephant's mahouts and veterinary experts to review maintenance practices and ensure the well-being of the animal. Singh also personally fed fruits to Shankar.

Dr. Adrian, an expert from Vantara, Jamnagar, and an elephant specialist from South Africa, were present to participate in detailed discussions on enhancing Shankar's health. An action plan was formulated, including recommendations for training mahouts, adjusting the elephant’s diet, and improving the enclosure to meet international standards.

Additionally, Singh emphasized the need for upgrading and modernizing the zoo to align with global benchmarks. He commended the government’s wildlife policies for fostering a deeper connection between people, nature, and wildlife, while also raising awareness about conservation efforts. The Minister also discussed the ongoing activities related to Wildlife Week.

In his briefing to forest officials, Singh mentioned letters sent to various South African nations, including Zimbabwe, Uganda, Tanzania, Namibia, and others, to secure a companion for Shankar. Both Botswana and Zimbabwe have pledged to donate an elephant, with formalities currently underway to finalize the process.

Senior officials, including ADG Wildlife Sushil Awasthi and Delhi Zoo Director Sanjeet Kumar, were also present at the meeting.

8th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

Chief Minister Atishi convened a review meeting on the Delhi Solar Policy on Tuesday, gathering senior officials from the power department and the three electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs). The meeting aimed to evaluate the implementation of this ambitious initiative, recognized as one of the most progressive solar policies in India.

The Delhi Solar Policy seeks to empower residents by offering financial incentives for installing rooftop solar panels, significantly contributing to pollution reduction and improving air quality in the capital. CM Atishi emphasized the necessity of timely subsidy distribution, directing officials to ensure that consumers receive their generation-based and capital subsidies within one month. Additionally, the government plans outreach programs to educate the public on the policy's benefits, aiming for solar energy to constitute 20% of the city's electricity consumption by 2027.

During the meeting, CM Atishi reiterated that the Delhi Solar Policy 2023 is a groundbreaking initiative. The policy will provide financial incentives for each unit of electricity generated through rooftop solar panels, effectively eliminating electricity bills for consumers while allowing them to earn income from their solar installations. Notably, the Delhi government is the only state in the country to offer generation-based incentives (GBI) for solar panel installation, ensuring that consumers who generate excess electricity will receive subsidies deposited directly into their bank accounts within a week.

CM Atishi outlined two primary objectives of the Delhi Solar Policy: to position Delhi as a leader in solar energy adoption and to reduce electricity bills for non-subsidized residential consumers to zero. The government aims to triple Delhi's total installed solar capacity from the current 1,500 MW to 4,500 MW by March 2027, making Delhi a frontrunner in renewable energy in India.

Benefits of the Delhi Solar Policy

Under the Delhi Solar Policy 2023, households installing rooftop solar panels will benefit from zero electricity bills, even with consumption exceeding 400 units. Currently, the Delhi government provides free electricity for up to 200 units, with half of the bill subsidized for consumption between 201 and 400 units. This policy ensures that all residential sectors can achieve zero electricity bills, regardless of their consumption levels.

For instance, a residential consumer using 360 units and installing a 2kW rooftop solar panel can expect to recover their investment of approximately ₹90,000 within four years, benefiting from an estimated monthly saving of ₹2,000.

Financial Incentives and Support

The Delhi government offers multiple financial benefits under this policy. For example, consumers installing a 3kW solar panel will receive ₹3 per unit of electricity generated for five years, while those with panels between 3-10 kW will receive ₹2 per unit. Furthermore, commercial and industrial consumers will see their electricity bills halved and receive ₹1 per unit as GBI for five years. Group housing societies and Residential Welfare Associations (RWAs) that install solar panels will also benefit from GBI of ₹2 per unit for five years.

Additionally, a capital subsidy of ₹2,000 per kW is available for residential consumers, capped at ₹10,000 per consumer, surpassing the subsidies offered by the central government.

8th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has published S.O. 4342(E) dated 7th October 2024. In accordance with the authority granted under sub-section (4) of section 49H of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (53 of 1972), the Central Government has designated additional ports of entry and exit under Chapter VB of the aforementioned Act. The ports that have been officially added to the list are: Visakhapatnam, Krishnapatnam, and New Mangalore.

According to Section 49H(4) of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, any individual involved in the trade of scheduled specimens must present them for clearance at the designated entry and exit ports as specified by the Central Government, either to the Management Authority, an authorized officer, or a customs officer.

8th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

On 7th October 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change published a draft notification for the Liquid Waste Management Rules, set to take effect on 1st October 2025. These rules will apply to all local bodies, public authorities, and entities generating and managing wastewater, including various government and private sectors. Key definitions include "blackwater," "bulk users," and "commercial units." The rules mandate responsible wastewater management, including the treatment and reuse of wastewater, sludge, and faecal sludge.

Key Provisions:

• Wastewater Generators: Must use local drainage systems, avoid degrading the environment, and pay user fees.

• Bulk Water Users: Required to register on a centralized portal, treat wastewater, and establish on-site treatment facilities. They must also meet specific reuse targets, increasing from 20% by 2027-28 to 50% by 2030-31 for residential societies.

• Operators of Treatment Facilities: Must register, report monthly data, and meet recovery targets, aiming for 65% recovery by 2029-30.

• Local Authorities: Tasked with developing action plans, monitoring compliance, and levying user fees.

The rules emphasize the mandatory reuse of treated wastewater, setting progressive reuse targets for different categories of bulk users, including residential societies and commercial establishments. The Extended User Responsibility (EUR) certificate system aims to ensure accountability in wastewater treatment and reuse. With stringent guidelines and monitoring, the government aims to mitigate the environmental impact of untreated wastewater and promote sustainable water management practices across sectors.  SUBSCRIBE for more details

8th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a significant move to streamline the resolution of air quality-related public complaints, the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has issued directives to the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) across the National Capital Region (NCR) and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC). On Tuesday, CAQM instructed these authorities to enhance coordination and improve efforts in addressing complaints received through various channels, particularly social media.

Under the new directive, complaints related to air quality, when received on social media platforms managed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), NCR SPCBs, and DPCC, are to be forwarded to the relevant implementing agencies. Additionally, these complaints must now also be tagged to CAQM. The concerned authority that receives the complaint will be required to upload either a compliance update or provide a valid reason for non-compliance on the same social media platform, ensuring that both CAQM and CPCB are tagged in the update.

This new mechanism is expected to enable CAQM to actively monitor the response time and effectiveness of the authorities in resolving public grievances. The system aims to ensure greater transparency, accountability, and prompt action in dealing with air quality issues.

Publicity and Awareness Initiatives

To further bolster this complaint resolution mechanism, CAQM has directed the NCR State Pollution Control Boards and the DPCC to widely publicize the availability of such a system. Authorities have been asked to leverage various communication platforms, including social media, to inform the public about the channels available to report air pollution-related concerns.

The Commission has also instructed the Chief Secretaries of NCR State Governments and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) to sensitize various departments and authorities responsible for implementing air pollution control measures. This direction is part of CAQM’s broader strategy to improve enforcement, enhance monitoring capabilities, and ensure a faster resolution of complaints.

Gaps in Implementation

However, despite the new directive, CAQM has not yet provided an updated list of SPCBs and their regional offices that have operational and active social media handles for this purpose. This omission raises questions about the efficacy of the system, particularly regarding the readiness of these boards to implement the social media-based grievance mechanism. Additionally, concerns have been raised over whether CAQM has effectively addressed the complaints already submitted to the Commission in previous instances, pointing to the need for stronger follow-up measures.

Air Quality Data

On the day of the directive, the air quality across Delhi and NCR remained a pressing issue. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was reported at 167, with PM10 being the predominant air pollutant. In the neighboring NCR cities, Ghaziabad and Hapur recorded the highest AQI levels at 218, with PM2.5 identified as the primary pollutant. This reflects poor air quality, highlighting the urgent need for consistent and effective pollution control measures.

Interestingly, Faridabad, known as one of NCR’s oldest industrial hubs, reported a relatively better AQI of 88, with a mix of PM2.5, PM10, and carbon monoxide (CO) as the primary pollutants. This deviation in air quality levels across the NCR showcases the varied pollution sources and mitigation measures in different regions.

Imphal Quotes Maximum AQI?

Further illustrating the nationwide air pollution challenge, CPCB’s 24-hour average AQI readings on Tuesday placed Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, at the top of the poor air quality charts with an AQI of 301, falling under the "Very Poor" category. The major pollutants in Imphal were PM2.5 and sulfur dioxide (SO2). Notably, Imphal’s AQI was derived from data collected at two air quality monitoring stations, both indicating concerning levels of air pollution.

Low Search Interest for CAQM: Is CAQM Struggling? 

In the past year, search interest for the CAQM has been relatively low across India. The highest search interest was recorded in Gurugram, which reached a maximum value of 100. New Delhi followed with a peak value of 81. The term “CAQM” saw its highest search interest was 100 only, which was between 26th November and 2nd December 2023, indicating a significant spike during that period.

On 8th October, the Election Commission of India reached over 5 million interactions or search interests, while the Haryana election results for 2024 garnered over 1 million. In contrast, the CAQM had no recorded interactions. For most of the year, the score of 0 suggests that there was insufficient data to register any search activity for CAQM in certain regions during specific times.

One possible interpretation is that the CAQM may be struggling to create a lasting impact in the public consciousness. The lack of effective actions and reliance on underperforming SPCBs have contributed to the perception of the CAQM as just another entity consuming public funds without yielding tangible results. 

A deeper question arises: Is air pollution truly perceived as a pressing issue by the general public, or is it viewed as a government-driven agenda? Some may argue that government interventions—such as restrictions on vehicle movement, generator operations, and construction—while aimed at reducing pollution, are seen as infringements on people's freedoms, sparking resentment. Although these actions are necessary from an environmental standpoint, they often appear as limitations on mobility and lifestyle, particularly in regions where public transport infrastructure is poor. 

7th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

News. The Ministry of Jal Shakti has informed that as of 6th October 2024, the Jal Jeevan Mission has successfully provided tap water connections to 11.95 crore additional rural households, bringing total coverage to over 15.19 crore households, which accounts for 78.58% of all rural households in India. The mission has reached a significant milestone, profoundly impacting the lives of rural people by providing reliable access to potable water in their homes.

The latest status of the Har Ghar Jal initiative shows that 165 districts have reported progress (indicating that tap water is being supplied to all households, schools, and Anganwadi centres, as confirmed by the water supply department), with 97 of them certified (Gram Sabha resolutions passed after verifying the water supply). In terms of blocks, 1,805 have reported, and 835 have been certified. At the panchayat level, 113,085 have submitted reports, and 73,518 have achieved certification. For villages, 240,076 have reported, and 139,022 have been certified under the initiative.

To encourage community engagement, the mission focuses on establishing 532,000 Village Water & Sanitation Committees (VWSCs) with at least 50% women and representation from marginalized groups to manage water supply systems. It includes training five women from each village to test water samples using Field Test Kits (FTKs), resulting in 2.464 million women trained and over 5.42 million samples tested by 2024-25. Additionally, the mission engages more than 14,000 NGOs, women's self-help groups, and community organizations as Implementation Support Agencies (ISAs) to facilitate community participation in planning and managing water supply systems. The Ministry, quoting Nobel laureate Prof. Michael Kremer's research, suggests that safe water coverage could reduce mortality among children under five by nearly 30%, potentially saving 136,000 lives annually. It has also stated that 2,159 laboratories have been facilitated to check water quality.

Despite the digital age and widespread access to information, public interest in "water scarcity" remained relatively stable throughout 2024, with a notable spike during the second week of March. While searches for "water scarcity" remained consistent in most regions, there was a slight increase in interest in Sikkim, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Puducherry in September. The most popular related queries and searches included "Bangalore water crisis latest news," "Bangalore water crisis work from home," "Bangalore water crisis," "Delhi water crisis Supreme Court," "Delhi water crisis protest," "water crisis in Bangalore work from home," "Prestige Falcon City," and "Delhi water crisis explained."

Searches related to the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) were primarily focused on job vacancies, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Sikkim, Meghalaya, and Nagaland. Some of the most popular JJM-related searches included "jal jeevan mission vacancy 2024," "jal jeevan mission form apply 2024," "jal jeevan mission bharti 2024 rajasthan," and "jal jeevan mission bharti 2024 apply online."

This suggests that while people are aware of specific water crises in major cities like Bangalore and Delhi, they may not be as informed about the broader national water scarcity issue or the status of the Jal Jeevan Mission. The increased interest in JJM-related searches in the northeastern states could be attributed to various factors, including local news coverage, government initiatives, or specific water challenges in those regions. 

7th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a strategic move that underscores its commitment to sustainable metal recycling, Nupur Recyclers Ltd. (NRL) has announced a second round of investment in its subsidiary, Frank Metals. This fresh infusion of capital comes on the heels of a significant initial investment earlier this year, demonstrating NRL's unwavering confidence in Frank Metals' future.

Frank Metals, an emerging player in the non-ferrous metal recycling industry, specializes in trading and manufacturing high-quality metal products. The company has quickly established itself as a market leader with its innovative approach to recycling zinc and aluminum scraps. Since commencing commercial production in July 2023, Frank Metals has ramped up production to an impressive 1400 tons per year, generating revenue of approximately 42 crore.

The additional funding from NRL will enable Frank Metals to supercharge its operations and expand its production capacity from 1500-2000 tons per year to a staggering 5000-6000 tons per year. This ambitious expansion will not only bolster Frank Metals' position in the market but also meet the increasing demand for recycled metals.

Furthermore, NRL is diversifying its product portfolio to include Zamak-3, Zamak-5, Zamak-8, Zinc Secondary Alloy Ingots, and aluminum alloy ingots ADC-12 & Brass Ingots. This strategic move will cater to a broader range of customers and industries, solidifying NRL's status as a key player in the metal recycling sector.

Rajesh Gupta, Managing Director of Nupur Recyclers, expressed his enthusiasm for the increased investment in Frank Metals, highlighting the company's innovation, quality, and customer-centric approach. "This strategic move not only strengthens our partnership but also aligns with our shared vision of setting new benchmarks in the industry," Gupta stated. "With Frank Metals' exceptional track record and our continued support, we are poised to revolutionize sustainable practices and deliver unparalleled value to our customers and stakeholders."

7th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a significant alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" initiative, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India, has successfully planted an impressive 146,675 saplings across its operational areas in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. This massive plantation effort, which took place as part of a nationwide drive launched by Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, in July 2024, highlights SECL's commitment to environmental stewardship amidst its coal mining operations.

The plantation drive spanned eight districts in Chhattisgarh and three districts in Madhya Pradesh, covering over 56 hectares of land. In an effort to foster community engagement, SECL distributed an additional 25,000 saplings to local residents, encouraging them to partake in this vital environmental initiative.

SECL’s planting efforts were further bolstered by its participation in the 2024 "Swachhata Hi Seva" campaign, a nationwide cleanliness drive that dovetails environmental conservation with public health initiatives. Under this campaign, SECL added 4,200 saplings to its planting tally, reinforcing its commitment to a cleaner and greener environment.

Notably, the Kusmunda mine, recognized as the world’s fourth-largest coal mine, set a remarkable record by planting 501 saplings in a single day. This achievement celebrated the production milestone of 501 lakh tons (50 million tons) of coal during the financial year 2023-24, showcasing SECL's dedication to balancing energy production with ecological responsibility.

Looking to the future, SECL plans to invest Rs. 169 crores over the next five years to support extensive plantation drives across both states. In collaboration with the Rajya Van Vikas Nigam, the company aims to plant over 2.6 million saplings in Chhattisgarh and 1.2 million in Madhya Pradesh between 2023-24 and 2027-28. Each planting initiative will include a four-year maintenance period, ensuring the proper growth and survival of the saplings.

To accelerate its afforestation efforts, SECL is adopting the Miyawaki technique, an innovative approach that promotes rapid green cover development. A pilot project utilizing this technique has already been initiated over 2 hectares in the Gevra Area. Since its inception, SECL has planted over 30 million saplings across its operational coal belts, underscoring its ongoing commitment to sustainability. 

5th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

EcoSikh, a global environmental organization, marked its 15th anniversary with a celebration at Juniper Hall, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Prominent environmentalists, including Baba Sewa Singh, Vikram Sahney, and Dr. Rajwant Singh, attended the event.

During the celebration, EcoSikh announced a major milestone—planting over 570,000 trees in 1,032 forests across India. The organization also pledged to plant 10 million trees by 2030, calling on communities worldwide to join this ambitious mission.

Dr. Rajwant Singh, Global President of EcoSikh, emphasized the power of collective action in addressing climate change and environmental protection. Baba Sewa Singh lauded the organization for its efforts to blend Sikh values with environmental responsibility. Dr. Supreet Kaur, EcoSikh India President, shared the organization’s journey from its humble beginnings to its impactful work in reforestation and biodiversity conservation.

EcoSikh has pioneered reforestation efforts in Punjab and other Indian states, using the Miyawaki Methodology to establish 914 micro forests, conserving over 100 native, rare, and endangered species. The organization remains committed to its mission of protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices. 

Is it related to toxic? "Toxic" refers to something that is harmful, poisonous, or dangerous to living organisms or the environment. It can describe substances, behaviors, or situations that cause damage or pose a serious threat. In environmental contexts, toxic substances can include pollutants, chemicals, or waste products that contaminate air, water, or soil, leading to adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. In a social or emotional context, "toxic" can refer to harmful or negative behaviors, relationships, or environments that negatively impact mental and emotional well-being. Mission of protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices certainly addresses Toxic. But it has no relevance with Toxic Yash.

5th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has published the Minutes of 376th meeting of Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) held on 27th September 2024 for Projects related to Infrastructure Development. The EAC INFRA-1 deals with projects of all Ship breaking yards including ship breaking units 7(b); Industrial Estate/Parks/Complexes/Areas, Export Processing Zones. In the meeting the EAC recommended grant of environmental and CRZ clearance for ‘construct of 4 Lane access controlled Greenfield National Highway of Palakkad-Kozhikode of NH-966 from Km. 0.000 to Km. 121.006, a total length 121.006 Km, in the state of Kerala by National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) under Bharatmala Pariyojana’.

The project is said to pass through the districts of Palakkad, Malappuram, and Kozhikode, covering locations such as Marutharode, Malampuzha, Mannarkkad, Alanallur, Karuvarakkund, Thuvvur, Areekkode, and Pantheerankavu. It will connect NH-544 at Marutharode in Palakkad and NH-66 at Olavanna in Kozhikode.  

The total project area spans 572.67 hectares, with the majority of the land, 465.93 hectares that comes to be about 81.36%, being agricultural. A portion, 9.529 hectares which is about 1.66% of the project area, is designated as forest land, while no barren land is recorded within the project site.

There are total 57,894 trees to be cut from the proposed Right of Way (RoW)  which includes 55,514 trees from non-forest areas and 2380 trees from vested/reserve forest area. The RoW is proposed to be 45 m. 

Today, pm kisan kept trending. People have searched terms like Guide for PM Kisan Kist Check, UP PM-KISAN KCC, PM Kisan Nidhi Yojana 2022. The "pm kisan yojana dbt payment check" was a big hit. At the same time, it is found that in this project 130.5267 square kilometers of Agriculture, mostly Paddy, land is to be affected.  

As declared in the MoEF&CC document, the NHAI project crosses 20 perennial water bodies, including major rivers like Chaliyar, Kadalundi, Kunthipuzha, and Bharathappuzha, as well as dams such as Kanjirapuzha and Malampuzha. These water bodies cover 1.2 km², or 0.5% of the total area. NHAI has stated that to maintain natural water flow, the project includes the construction of 11 major bridges, 34 minor bridges, and 175 box culverts. The alignment runs parallel to the Ghats, crossing rivers, streams, and canals. Surface drainage will be ensured through road camber adjustments and drainage systems, including unlined, RCC, and covered drains along the highway.  

5th October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

GAIL (India) Limited and AM Green B.V. (AMG) have entered into a strategic partnership to advance sustainable energy solutions in India. Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the companies will explore the development of renewable energy projects, targeting up to 2.5 GW capacity, and green chemical initiatives, including eMethanol production.

As part of the collaboration, GAIL and AMG will conduct feasibility studies for the supply of approximately 350 Kilo Tonnes per Annum of carbon dioxide (CO2) from GAIL’s gas processing plants to produce eMethanol, a cleaner fuel that reduces carbon emissions. The partnership also includes plans for joint development of solar and wind hybrid renewable energy projects across India, supporting the country's transition to a greener energy landscape.

GAIL will have the option to invest in the eMethanol project, furthering its commitment to sustainable energy and environmental sustainability. Both companies aim to contribute to India's goals of carbon reduction and industrial decarbonization, particularly in sectors such as shipping, steel, and cement.

This collaboration highlights GAIL and AMG's shared vision for promoting clean energy, reducing carbon footprints, and driving technological innovation for a greener future.

It is interesting to note that the Green Chemistry Initiative (GCI) is a student-run organization based in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Toronto. 

Green chemistry, however, refers to the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the generation of hazardous substances. The Green Chemistry Challenge Awards promote the environmental and economic benefits of developing and using innovative green chemistry solutions. What is the concept of the Green Initiative? In India, the green chemistry initiative focuses on reducing the environmental impact of chemical manufacturing by encouraging the use of renewable feedstocks, minimizing waste, and developing eco-friendly products and processes. 

What are the 12 applications of green chemistry? Title of the 12 principles are 1) Prevention, 2) Atom economy, 3) Less hazardous chemical syntheses, 4) Designing safer chemicals, 5) Safer solvents and auxiliaries, 6) Design for energy efficiency, 7) Use of renewable feed stocks, 8) Reduce derivatives, 9) Catalysis, 10) Design for degradation, 11) Real-time Analysis for Pollution Prevention and 12) Inherently Safer Chemistry for Accident Prevention.

2nd October 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn Blogger

In a high-level roundtable hosted by the World Trade Organization (WTO), Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala engaged with over 20 CEOs and representatives from leading agricultural companies, producer associations, and certification organizations to discuss the growing challenges businesses face in navigating increasingly complex sustainability regulations aimed at combating climate change and protecting biodiversity.

As companies strive to ensure compliance within their global value chains, Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the need for more dialogue between the WTO and the private sector, which is directly affected by these evolving regulations. “International businesses are preparing for these changes, but more conversations at the WTO level are crucial,” she stated.

The Director-General noted a significant increase in environment-related regulations, with 8,661 environment-related notifications submitted to various WTO committees since 1997. She highlighted the importance of robust environmental standards, traceability, and certification systems in today's interconnected global economy. However, she also pointed out that "these measures present significant challenges for market actors, particularly in developing countries where businesses must often navigate divergent standards to access international markets."

Okonjo-Iweala called for careful design of new regulations to ensure that small producers in developing economies remain integrated into global value chains rather than being marginalized or excluded. She stressed the importance of developing efficient traceability, verification, and certification systems, which she referred to as "quality infrastructure," to bridge the information gap and reduce compliance costs.

Business leaders from sectors such as coffee, cocoa, and palm oil, along with representatives from certification organizations, echoed these concerns. They underscored the need for clearer regulations, harmonized standards, and aligned certification requirements to prevent confusion and reduce compliance costs. They also called for increased technical and financial support to help small producers adapt to the evolving regulatory environment.

The Director-General expressed her gratitude for the productive discussions, marking the meeting as a crucial first step toward ongoing dialogue between the WTO and the private sector. She stated that the key messages from the meeting would be shared with relevant policymakers, while encouraging businesses to identify the opportunities within the new regulations, despite the challenges they pose.

Looking to the future, Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the urgent need to address regulatory fragmentation. She concluded by stating that fostering stronger dialogue between policymakers and businesses is critical to ensuring that new sustainability regulations “do not end up harming small farmers.”

1st October 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

In a bid to tackle the pressing issue of paddy stubble burning during the Kharif season of 2024, the State Governments of Punjab and Haryana, acting under the directives of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), have rolled out comprehensive action plans. These plans aim to put the brakes on harmful burning practices that exacerbate air pollution. Will Haryana election results bring any change to this?

To enhance agency coordination and intensify monitoring efforts, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has deployed Flying Squads to identified hotspot districts in both states from October 1 to November 30, 2024. These districts, notorious for high incidents of stubble burning, will be closely scrutinized as part of a concerted effort to clamp down on this environmental menace.

The Flying Squads will work hand in glove with district authorities and designated nodal officers appointed by the respective state governments. Their mandate includes assessing ground-level conditions and implementing immediate interventions to curtail any stubble burning activities.

In Punjab, the sixteen districts under watch include Amritsar, Barnala, Bathinda, Faridkot, Fatehgarh Sahib, Fazilka, Firozpur, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Ludhiana, Mansa, Moga, Muktsar, Patiala, Sangrur, and Tarn Taran. Meanwhile, ten districts in Haryana—Ambala, Fatehabad, Hisar, Jind, Kaithal, Karnal, Kurukshetra, Sirsa, Sonipat, and Yamunanagar—will also see an intensified crackdown.

Flying Squads are tasked with providing daily reports to the CAQM and CPCB, detailing the situation on the ground and outlining the steps taken to prevent further incidents. This proactive approach underscores a commitment to cleaner air and a healthier environment.

To further bolster these efforts, the CAQM is set to establish a “Paddy Stubble Management” Cell in Mohali/Chandigarh. This initiative aims to foster close collaboration with the Agriculture Department and other relevant agencies, ensuring a cohesive strategy in the fight against stubble burning throughout the harvesting season.

As authorities mobilize their resources, the message is clear: the battle against stubble burning is not just a seasonal fight, but a crucial step towards sustainable agricultural practices and improved air quality in the region. Will Haryana election cause any impact on this?

ICYMI, notable that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified G.S.R. 322(E) Dated 28th April 2023 that has made provisions for imposition and collection of environmental compensation for stubble burning. The rules are referred as the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (Imposition, Collection and Utilization of Environmental Compensation for Stubble Burning) Rules, 2023. Read Enviro Annotations report

1st October 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Amwoodo, a leading eco-friendly manufacturer, is taking its commitment to environmental responsibility a step further with the launch of ecoconsious.com. This innovative online marketplace shatters the misconception that sustainable living is a niche trend, offering a curated selection of eco-conscious products that prioritize the planet without sacrificing convenience, quality, or affordability.

The move marks a strategic shift for Amwoodo, transitioning from a successful business-to-business (B2B) model to a direct-to-consumer (D2C) platform. This expansion comes at a time when environmentally conscious consumers are increasingly seeking purpose in their purchases. They crave products that align with their values and empower them to contribute to a greener future. Ecoconsious.com bridges this gap, offering a practical solution for those seeking to make meaningful choices that are easy to integrate into their daily routines.

"We've always championed sustainability, but now we're making it personal," declared Agni Mitra, Founder of Amwoodo. Recognizing the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly options, Amwoodo is committed to empowering individuals to embrace a greener lifestyle. "Eco-conscious.com was born out of the belief that living sustainably should be easy, affordable, and accessible for everyone," Mitra stated. "This isn't just about selling products; it's about inspiring positive change, one small decision at a time."

The platform features three core brands – I'm Eco, Dencrus, and ShaveEco – each catering to a distinct aspect of daily life. This curated selection provides a comprehensive suite of eco-conscious alternatives that consumers can feel good about using.

• I'm Eco: This brand champions eco-friendly living through bamboo-based products, offering sustainable options for everyday essentials like tissues, drinkware, and personal care items. I'm Eco remains dedicated to providing chemical-free, biodegradable alternatives that promote conscious living.
  
  

• Dencrus: Specializing in premium oral care solutions, Dencrus offers bamboo toothbrushes and eco-friendly toothpastes, striking a perfect balance between effectiveness and sustainability. Their mission is to deliver exceptional dental care while minimizing environmental impact.
  
  

• ShaveEco: Dedicated to sustainable grooming, ShaveEco's bamboo-based shaving solutions combine innovation with environmental responsibility. This brand brings eco-consciousness to everyday grooming routines.
  
  

Ecoconsious.com champions the philosophy that a multitude of small, everyday decisions can create significant, lasting change. From choosing Dencrus' bamboo toothbrushes to incorporating reusable towels from I'm Eco, each product is meticulously designed to minimize waste and foster a more sustainable lifestyle. Their mission is clear: to offer seamless, eco-friendly alternatives that seamlessly integrate into daily routines and empower consumers to minimize their environmental impact. Every purchase not only helps lower individual carbon footprints but also supports job creation, improves livelihoods, and fosters long-term sustainability across the entire supply chain.

"You don't need a doctorate in environmental science to make a difference," Agni Mitra emphasizes. "One small change is all it takes to get started, and we've made it easier than ever for you to take that step."

30th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The fifth Trade and Environment Week, scheduled from 7 to 11 October 2024, promises to be a significant milestone in the global dialogue on sustainability. Hosted at the World Trade Organization (WTO) headquarters in Geneva and available virtually, this year's theme, “Trade for Clean Energy Transition for All,” underscores the urgent need for an inclusive shift towards sustainable practices in international trade. Is it the reason why 

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The week-long event will feature a high-level opening session organized by the WTO Secretariat, which will bring together distinguished speakers from various sectors. Notable participants include WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization, and Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency. The session will also host Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (via video message), Bruce Gosper, Vice President of the Asian Development Bank, Lord Adair Turner, Chair of the Energy Transition Commission, and Ambassador Erwin Bollinger of Switzerland, Chairperson of the WTO's Committee on Trade and Environment (CTE). The discussion will be moderated by Aik Hoe Lim, Director of the WTO Trade and Environment Division.

In addition to the high-level event, Trade and Environment Week will feature 15 side events organized by WTO members, focusing on a diverse range of topics. These include plastics pollution, critical minerals, sustainable agriculture, the Sustainable Development Goals, voluntary sustainability standards, the calculation of embedded carbon emissions, environmental goods and services, renewable energy, nature-positive trade, and trade-related climate measures. These discussions aim to foster a deeper understanding of the interconnections between trade and environmental sustainability.

Complementing the regular work of the CTE, Trade and Environment Week aims to facilitate discussions among trade and environment stakeholders. The event provides an invaluable opportunity for WTO members to engage with business representatives, international organizations, academics, leading experts, and civil society, encouraging the exchange of concrete ideas and collaborative approaches to environmental challenges.

Further enriching the week’s activities, a 'book talk' session will feature author Chris Goodall discussing his latest work, Possible: Ways to Net Zero. This session will highlight innovative approaches to achieving net-zero emissions in various sectors.

Additionally, an art exhibition will be held in the WTO atrium, showcasing sustainable products and art projects that reflect environmental themes. This exhibition will feature photography, sculptures, and installations that draw attention to pressing environmental issues faced by global communities. Small businesses from both developed and developing economies will have the opportunity to present their innovative and sustainable solutions aimed at reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

All high-level events, side discussions, the book talk, and the art exhibition will be open to the public, inviting participation and engagement from a broad audience.

As the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, Trade and Environment Week 2024 stands as a critical platform for dialogue and action, paving the way for a sustainable future for all.

30th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

At the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Committee on Agriculture meeting held on 25-26 September 2024, member countries discussed crucial issues surrounding food security, technology transfer, and transparency in agricultural policies. The meeting, chaired by Ms. Anna Leung of Hong Kong, China, brought together key global stakeholders to assess progress on commitments and policies in line with WTO’s agriculture agreements.

Representatives from international organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP), the World Bank, and the International Grains Council (IGC), provided updates on recent agricultural market developments and the state of global food security. The FAO’s July report on food security revealed that 733 million people, or 9.1% of the global population, faced chronic hunger in 2023—a sharp rise from pre-pandemic levels. Conflict, climate variability, and economic challenges were cited as major drivers of this crisis. However, according to ourworldindata.org the crop yields have increased dramatically in recent decades, but crops like maize would have improved more without climate change. 

The WFP warned of worsening food insecurity, predicting deteriorating conditions in 18 hunger hotspots by October 2024. In response, the WFP emphasized its growing reliance on local and regional food procurement to stabilize food systems, with 57% of its food sourced from vulnerable developing nations.

The IGC noted stable demand for key agricultural commodities such as wheat, maize, and soybeans but expressed concern over persistently high rice prices. The council called for improved transparency in the rice market to address supply chain complexities.

The committee reviewed agricultural policies and commitments under the WTO Agreement on Agriculture, with 215 questions raised by members regarding individual country notifications. Among the 24 new issues discussed were Argentina’s support for beef producers, Brazil’s new tax measures, and Indonesia’s agricultural support programs. Recurring concerns included the United Kingdom's sustainable farming initiatives and the United States’ food programs.

European Union’s Deforestation Regulation Sparks Debate:

The EU’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), set to be enforced from 30 December 2024, was a focal point of the meeting. Several countries, including Argentina, Brazil, and Indonesia, voiced concerns over the trade impact of the regulation, particularly on small farmers in developing nations. These countries criticized the EUDR as punitive and lacking clear enforcement guidelines, urging the EU to delay its implementation.

In response, the EU acknowledged the concerns and noted that further discussions on the regulation’s implementation were underway.

Advances in Technology Transfer

Members also participated in a thematic session on technology transfer, where experts shared strategies to promote new agricultural technologies and improve productivity. The session highlighted the importance of aligning technology adoption with climate goals to enhance resilience in global agriculture.

Looking Ahead

The committee is set to reconvene in November 2024, with further discussions planned on export competition and food security for least developed countries. An advanced workshop on agricultural notifications will be held in October to train government officials from developing economies in compliance and transparency practices.

30th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

A recent study has revealed a concerning trend of accelerated glacier loss on the Juneau Icefield, located along the border between Alaska and British Columbia, Canada, particularly since 2010. This research, conducted by a collaborative team from academic institutions in the UK, USA, and Europe, analyzed data spanning back to 1770 and identified three distinct periods of icefield volume variation.

The findings indicate that from 1770 to 1979, the annual glacier volume loss remained relatively steady, ranging from approximately 0.65 to 1.01 cubic kilometers (km³). However, between 1979 and 2010, this rate increased significantly to between 3.08 and 3.72 km³ annually. The most alarming acceleration occurred between 2010 and 2020, when the ice loss rate doubled to approximately 5.91 km³ per year.

Published in Nature Communications, the study highlights that the rate of glacier area decrease during the icefield's lifespan has accelerated dramatically. Specifically, the study found that the area loss was five times greater between 2015 and 2019 compared to the period from 1948 to 1979. Over the span from 1770 to 2020, the total ice loss in the Juneau Icefield amounted to 315.3 ± 237.5 km³, representing nearly 25% of the initial ice volume. This rapid depletion is accompanied by an increase in glacier fragmentation, with a marked rise in the disconnection of a glacier's upper and lower sections. Notably, 108 glaciers have completely disappeared, and all glaciers mapped in 2019 have receded from their positions in 1770.

Dr. Bethan Davies, a senior lecturer at Newcastle University and lead researcher on the study, expressed concern regarding these findings: “Our research indicates a rapid acceleration in glacier loss across the Juneau Icefield since the early 21st century. As ice loss affects a much larger area, Alaskan icefields, primarily flat and plateau-shaped, are particularly susceptible to accelerated melting due to rising temperatures. The thinning of glaciers on the Juneau Plateau is likely to hinder future regrowth and could push them beyond a tipping point, leading to irreversible recession as ice retreats to lower, warmer altitudes. Furthermore, flatter ice caps and icefields cannot retreat to higher elevations to achieve a new equilibrium.”

The study underscores the significance of Alaska's plateau icefields, which are among the largest in the world and play a crucial role in current sea-level rise. The researchers believe that the processes observed in Juneau could similarly affect other comparable icefields in Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Norway, and other high-Arctic regions. They also suggest that current projections for ice volume loss in the Juneau Icefield, which predict a linear decrease until 2040 with an acceleration only after 2070, may need to be revised in light of these findings.

Dr. Davies remarked, “This work demonstrates that various processes can enhance melting, indicating that existing glacier projections may underestimate future glacier loss.”

Dr. Robert McNabb, a remote sensing lecturer at Ulster University, highlighted the study's unique methodology: “This research was particularly intriguing because it enabled us to extract elevation data from thousands of historical aerial photographs, providing an accurate understanding of the icefield's long-term history. It was akin to assembling the world’s most challenging jigsaw puzzle, reconstructing the icefield's elevation during the pre-satellite era for the first time. Long-term archives like this are essential for understanding the thresholds at which change can accelerate, as evidenced by the Juneau Icefield.”

30th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Otis India, a subsidiary of Otis Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: OTIS), a global leader in elevator and escalator manufacturing, installation, and servicing, has announced the launch of the fifth edition of its annual global initiative, the Made to Move Communities challenge. This year's theme is “Developing Urban Mobility Solutions Using AI.”

Otis invites standout entries that propose inclusive and sustainable mobility solutions harnessing the potential of Artificial Intelligence. As AI transforms the landscape by addressing complex challenges with unprecedented speed, accuracy, and scale, the challenge aims to leverage these advancements for improved urban mobility. Over the next several months, more than 250 students from numerous schools across 15 countries and territories will participate, proposing innovative AI-driven strategies to enhance urban mobility. Participants will receive guidance from volunteer mentors from Otis worldwide.

Mr. Sebi Joseph, President of Otis India, expressed his enthusiasm for the theme, stating, “In today’s rapidly urbanizing world, AI serves as a transformative tool for reimagining mobility solutions that enhance connectivity while minimizing environmental impact. We are excited to see how students will champion the integration of AI in mobility, creating resilient solutions that meet the evolving needs of our communities and contribute to a smarter, more inclusive, and sustainable future.”

Additionally, Otis recognized the winners of the fourth edition of the contest held last year. The spotlight was on a team of eight exceptional students from Bharat Mata High School in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, who represented Otis India. With expert mentorship from Otis India, the students developed and presented their STEM-based proposal, “Go-Green,” which introduced an innovative mobility solution aimed at increasing access to green spaces and promoting well-being.

Since its inception in 2020, Otis’ annual Made to Move Communities global student competition has engaged over 750 students and numerous Otis colleagues worldwide, addressing urban mobility challenges while fostering a lifelong interest in STEM fields. Participating schools have received nearly $1 million (USD) in grants from Otis to enhance STEM learning and programs. Previously, teams competed regionally, with a winning team selected from each of the four Otis regions—Asia Pacific, China, Americas, and Europe, Middle East & Africa. This year marks the first time that the four regional winning teams will face off in a final round to crown a global champion. Student teams will be required to demonstrate how their local solutions can be scaled to address global challenges, and the global champion will receive an additional grant for their school.

For more insights into the Made to Move Communities challenge and this year’s theme, watch this video: Made to Move Communities.

27th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

On the occasion of the 71st birthday of Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), the Mata Amritanandamayi Math (MAM) has unveiled a significant disaster-relief initiative focused on enhancing landslide resilience in Wayanad, Kerala. The initiative includes a comprehensive aid package of ₹15 crores to support survivors of recent landslides and to strengthen the region’s defenses against future climate-induced disasters.

In collaboration with its university, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, MAM plans to deploy advanced landslide early warning systems in Wayanad’s most vulnerable areas. These systems will offer real-time alerts to protect communities from the increasing threat of landslides, particularly those exacerbated by climate change. The project will commence as soon as official clearance is obtained from the Kerala State Government.

This initiative follows the catastrophic landslides of 30th July 2024, which ravaged the villages of Punjirimattom, Mundakkai, Chooralmala, and Vellarimala, resulting in over 400 fatalities, 397 injuries, and 118 missing persons. With Wayanad’s ongoing vulnerability to landslides, the Math believes this programme will play a crucial role in preventing future casualties and enhancing long-term safety.

Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, Vice Chairman of MAM, emphasized the Math’s focus on sustainable relief: “Amma’s approach to any disaster is rooted in compassion and long-term well-being. The ₹15 crore package aims to support recovery efforts, including the implementation of the Amrita Landslide Early Warning System (A-LEWS), while addressing the community’s long-term needs. Once official clearance is received, we will begin immediate implementation.”

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s research team, under the direction of Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, conducted a preliminary assessment of the landslide disaster in Wayanad. Their findings have guided the development of the ₹15 crore initiative, which will introduce site-specific landslide early warning systems in critical areas. These systems will provide essential alerts, facilitating timely evacuations to achieve a zero-casualty goal.

In addition to these localized systems, a regional-level landslide early warning system will be implemented, featuring a real-time risk-visualisation dashboard. This will enable district and state authorities to monitor risk conditions across Wayanad in real time.

Dr. Maneesha V Ramesh, Provost of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, added: “The AI-enabled A-LEWS system, which has been successfully protecting lives since 2009, will now be deployed in Wayanad to save lives in highly landslide-prone areas. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the safety of the region, thanks to Amma and MAM’s unwavering support.”

Amrita’s disaster-risk management initiatives have earned international acclaim. The International Consortium on Landslides (ICL) designated Amrita as a World Center of Excellence in Landslide Risk Reduction in 2017. Furthermore, in 2023, the institution received the prestigious Averted Disaster Award (ADA) for its global contributions to disaster risk management.

The Math’s humanitarian efforts, led by Amma, have made a profound impact on disaster recovery in India. Since 2001, MAM has dedicated over ₹700 crores to relief and rehabilitation efforts, focusing on providing essential services such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education.

27th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Today, the world marks the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, an initiative aimed at highlighting the critical issue of food wastage and its environmental and socio-economic impacts. With food security becoming an increasing global concern, the focus is on addressing the staggering amounts of food loss and waste across the supply chain.

Arya.ag, an integrated grain commerce platform in India, has released its latest Impact Performance Report, highlighting the company's significant contributions to empowering farmers and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the agricultural sector. The report, produced in collaboration with 60 Decibels and supported by Quona Capital, emphasizes Arya.ag's pivotal role in enhancing financial inclusion and reducing wastage in the agricultural value chain.

Expanding Financial Inclusion for Farmers and MSMEs

A key takeaway from the report is Arya.ag’s success in fostering financial inclusion among farmers and MSMEs. The platform enabled 85% of farmers to access financial services, with 87% of MSMEs benefiting from working capital support. These figures underscore Arya.ag’s dedication to bridging critical gaps in finance within the agricultural landscape. Additionally, 60% of farmers surveyed indicated that Arya.ag’s offerings were irreplaceable, with no alternative platforms matching its capabilities.

The impact of Arya.ag's services extends beyond just financial access. 79% of farmers reported an increase in their earnings due to the support and opportunities provided by Arya.ag. This financial empowerment is driving positive change in rural economies, strengthening the agricultural sector's resilience and sustainability.

Reducing Farm Wastage: A Key Achievement

In addition to expanding financial services, Arya.ag has made remarkable strides in reducing farm produce wastage. 67% of farmers reported a reduction in wastage since using Arya.ag's platform. This reduction was particularly notable among individual farmers, where 73% experienced a decrease in wastage, compared to 58% of farmers associated with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).

Geographically, the most pronounced impact was observed in South India, where 64% of farmers reported substantial reductions in farm produce wastage, contrasting with 35% in other regions of the country. This achievement highlights Arya.ag's ability to drive efficiency and minimize losses across the agricultural supply chain.

Strengthening MSMEs and the Agricultural Supply Chain

For MSMEs, Arya.ag’s contributions were equally transformative. 86% of MSMEs reported an improved ability to plan and manage working capital, allowing for more efficient operations. Furthermore, 89% of MSMEs benefited from enhanced access to raw materials at crucial times, demonstrating Arya.ag’s critical role in reinforcing the agricultural supply chain. By ensuring timely access to necessary resources, Arya.ag is helping MSMEs scale their operations and improve profitability.

Commitment to Transforming Agriculture

Speaking on the report’s findings, Prasanna Rao, CEO and Co-founder of Arya.ag, remarked, “These results validate our mission of creating equitable value chains in agriculture. By bridging critical gaps in finance and market access, we’re not just improving businesses; we’re transforming lives and fostering inclusive growth across India’s agricultural landscape.”

Looking ahead, Arya.ag remains committed to expanding its impact. The company has set ambitious targets for the coming years, aiming to:

• Impact over 10 million farmers in the next 3-4 years.

• Facilitate over $3 billion in agri-loans.

• Create commerce linkages worth over $4 billion.

• Expand its storage infrastructure fourfold by 2028.

26th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Two Point O Capital, a pioneering climate financing platform targeting businesses, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and rural enterprises, announced today that it has successfully raised $6.3 million in seed funding. The funding round was led by Omnivore, with participation from Multiply Ventures, RTP Global, GrowX, Spectrum Impact, and a distinguished group of angel investors.

Two Point O Capital aims to address a significant gap in debt financing within the distributed clean energy sector. While traditional financing avenues effectively cater to the capital needs of utility-scale clean energy projects, there exists an annual unmet demand exceeding $10 billion for efficient and flexible capital dedicated to financing distributed-level projects.

With this newly acquired funding, Two Point O plans to enhance its technology-enabled platform designed to source, underwrite, finance, and monitor distributed projects across clean energy segments. These segments include solar rooftops, energy efficiency equipment, and wastewater treatment. The company aims to forge partnerships with various operational and financial entities to build a robust portfolio and manage it throughout its lifecycle. This collaborative approach is deemed essential for making a significant impact in the clean energy space.

Founded in early 2024 by Archit Mehrotra, Karan Bhutani, and Manya Ranjan, with the recent addition of Shashidhar Reddy, the founding team boasts an impressive educational background from prestigious institutions such as IIT, MIT, DCE, INSEAD, and IIM. Collectively, they bring over 70 years of experience from industry giants including KKR, McKinsey, Shell, BP, Honeywell, ReNew, Sterlite Power, and GIC, specializing in investments, asset development, strategy, finance, and operations focused on clean energy technologies, project financing, and credit underwriting.

Commenting on the investment, Abhilash Sethi, Investment Director of Omnivore, stated, “Two Point O's innovative approach to climate financing has the potential to significantly accelerate India's clean energy transition, particularly in underserved sectors such as rural and agriculture. By unlocking capital for distributed energy assets in rural India, the startup empowers businesses nationwide to embrace sustainability. The founding team brings incredible experience from relevant sectors, and we are excited to partner with them.”

Raveen Sastry of Multiply expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “We are excited to support this talented team as they work to solve one of India’s biggest challenges—bridging the $10 billion annual gap in financing for clean energy projects. Their innovative solutions can unlock vast opportunities in the distributed cleantech sector, and we look forward to partnering with them to create a cleaner, more sustainable future for India.”

The founders of Two Point O shared their excitement regarding the support received from their investors. “We are thrilled to have this immense backing from Omnivore, Multiply, RTP Global, GrowX, Spectrum Impact, and our angel investors. We’re grateful for their belief in our vision and commitment to catalyzing the energy transition. This investment will accelerate our growth trajectory and help us attract top talent across various functions to build a best-in-class team,” they remarked.

As Two Point O Capital embarks on this promising journey, the funding is poised to play a crucial role in bridging the financing gap in India's clean energy sector, paving the way for a sustainable future powered by innovative financing solutions.

26th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The print version of Enviro Annotations in its 25th September 2024 issue encompasses the following topics and includes intriguing facts within the news reports:

• MoEF&CC Announces Achievement of 80 Crore Sapling Target Under 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' Campaign Ahead of Schedule

• Climate and Health Solutions Conclave On Advancing Resilience Against Climate-Induced Health Risks in India

• NGT Resumes Hearings on Case Against Kuantum Paper Mill

• NGT Kolkata Bench Orders Notices Over Stone Quarry EC

• NGT Western Zone Bench Hears Case Against Radico NV Distilleries Over Environment Damage Compensation Claims

• #EIA Industry 1 Expert Committee Defers JSW Steel EC Split and Shree Cement Proposals Amid Environmental Concerns at 65th Meet

• #EIA Expert Appraisal Committee of Infra 2 Projects Greenlights Biomedical Waste Facilities and Hospital Projects Amid Growing Healthcare Needs

• Guest Article by Pradip Shah, Grow-Trees.com | Mangroves and Coastal Protection: Trees as Nature’s Shield Against Climate Disasters

• “AI and IoT: Key to Water Solutions”: Prasad, MD of Konarak Water Meters

• UnPollute 2024: She Means Business for a Sustainable Future

• IIIT BBSR Hosts Talk on Electrical Technology's Role in Sustainability

• Infosys Foundation Sets New Record with Seedball Initiative

• TCS, Rolls Royce Team Up For Hydrogen Fuel Research Programme

• IIT-Madras Launches Initiative to Cut CO2 Emissions by 1 Gigaton

• IIT Delhi Cracks Code for Renewable Energy with CYTOP

• Wealthy Nations, Poor Planet: ActionAid Report

• Pakka Launches New Range of Compostable Flexible Packagings

• Editorial: Compromised Data: EAC's Oversight Fallout (#EIA environment science, environment pollution, Environment Pollution Article)

• Editorial: Solar's Heat Island Dilemma

• OIL BRSR FY24 Reports Non-GHG Emissions in microgram Units, Includes PM10, PM2.5

• Q&A | NGT | Climate Change and Biodiversity

• Government Amends Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Rules, 2023

• Financial Support Guidelines to Combat Coastal Plastic Waste and Fishing Gear 

For details subscribe 

25th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has informed successful achievement of its target of planting 80 crore saplings under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, five days ahead of the set deadline. The nationwide tree plantation drive, which was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on World Environment Day, 5th June 2024, aimed to foster environmental awareness and land restoration.

Earlier, at the "Empowering Youth for Sustainable Futures" event during the UN Summit of the Future, Secretary Leena Nandan announced the success of India's "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" (Plant4Mother) initiative. Over 750 million trees were planted between June and September 2024. 

It is worth noting that the Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, on 3rd September 2024 had announced that the country has achieved a significant milestone in tree plantation under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, with over 520 million saplings planted across India, which EA also reported.

"Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" is an effort that shows respect and dedication towards motherland and nature. The aim of this campaign is to plant a tree in the name of a mother and create a lasting memory, which will not only protect the environment but also contribute to building a greener and more prosperous future. Both mother and nature are the fundamental bases of life, and through this initiative. 

The campaign, which encouraged citizens to plant a tree in honor of their mother, has become a significant milestone in India's fight against land degradation and climate change. It involved collective efforts from government agencies, village institutions, local communities, and other stakeholders to meet the ambitious goal.

The ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative not only promotes tree planting but also encourages people to take a pledge to protect trees and the planet, aiming to create a lasting environmental legacy. The plantation drive is an essential component of India's broader environmental goals under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and its G20 presidency theme of sustainable development.

25th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) India Conclave, jointly organized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), was inaugurated today in Delhi. This two-day event aims to address the dual challenges of climate change and public health by bringing together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to develop actionable strategies for India’s health sector.

In his keynote address, Apurva Chandra, Secretary of MoHFW, emphasized the urgency of integrating climate considerations into health policies, stating, "India is committed to building a climate-resilient health system and leading by example in addressing the unique needs of developing nations." He highlighted the collaboration with ADB to strengthen the health sector's capacity to tackle climate impacts and achieve sustainable development.

Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, emphasized the importance of India’s leadership in addressing the intersection of climate and health, particularly under its G20 presidency. He remarked, "As we face rising temperatures and healthcare challenges, integrated solutions are crucial to safeguard both human health and the environment."

The conclave featured key discussions on integrating climate change into health planning, with Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava, OSD, MoHFW, outlining India’s proactive efforts through the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) and the National Action Plan on Climate Change and Health.

Leena Nandan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, discussed India’s progress on sustainable development and the country’s commitments to climate and environmental goals. Underscoring the significance of cross-sectoral collaboration to achieve climate resilience, she stated, “We need macro-planning to address the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in areas like health and resource management. Health system readiness is key to adapting and ensuring a coordinated, complete, and comprehensive approach.” 

Ayako Inagaki, Senior Director at the Asian Development Bank, stressed the urgent need for collaboration to address climate-induced health risks in India. She called the Climate and Health Solutions India Conclave a key step in uniting policymakers and stakeholders to build resilient, sustainable health systems for a climate-resilient future. 

The CHS Conclave aims to develop a comprehensive plan to address climate-related health challenges in India. This includes creating tailored policies, identifying innovative solutions, and fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, and stakeholders. The event highlights India's commitment to tackling climate change and ensuring public health. 

24th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

In an era where data encryption and protection are paramount, especially with the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), researchers at IIT Delhi have pioneered a groundbreaking technique utilizing Cyclic Transparent Optical Polymer (CYTOP). This advancement promises to enhance secure data exchange and open new avenues for electronic device development, including applications in renewable energy generation from rainwater.

The research, titled “Determination of Surface Charge Density and Charge Mapping of CYTOP Thin Film in Air Using Electrostatic Force Microscopy,” was conducted by Shalini Singh from the School of Interdisciplinary Research (SIRe), under the guidance of Professors Dhiman Mallick and Ankur Goswami at IIT Delhi, in collaboration with Professor Stefan A. L. Weber from the Max Planck Institute of Polymer Research and University of Stuttgart, Germany. It was recently published in ACS Langmuir.

The study revealed that CYTOP can retain inserted charges for extended periods, enabling the writing of data at the nanoscale through charges, which can only be read using specialized Electrostatic Force Microscopy (EFM). This technique allows for the creation of invisible information stored on an electret substrate, with a charge longevity of over 100 years, according to Prof. Mallick.

Prof. Goswami noted that while the current study represents an initial step toward nanoscale charge writing, it holds potential for expansion to macroscale applications using techniques akin to lithographic patterning, allowing for end-to-end encryption.

Shalini Singh highlighted that this research could pave the way for ultra-sensitive sensors, advanced data storage solutions, and applications in renewable energy technologies, particularly in harnessing rainwater effectively.

24th September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-M), has established a groundbreaking research group, The Energy Consortium, with the ambitious goal of reducing over 1 GigaTon (GT) in cumulative CO2 emissions by 2035. This consortium aims to revolutionize the energy sector through cutting-edge research and development, focusing on developing ‘technology sandboxes’ to de-risk capital-intensive projects and advising industries on energy efficiency measures.

The Energy Consortium, comprising eight Centers of Excellence, has garnered support from 10 major multinational and Indian companies. It is also collaborating with 20 university and research institute partners, both domestically and internationally.

Key Objectives:

• Technology Development: Creating innovative and advanced energy technologies.

• Industry Guidance: Providing expert advice on energy efficiency measures.

• CO2 Reduction: Achieving significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

• Net Zero Transition: Contributing to India's journey towards a net-zero economy.

Partnerships and Initiatives:

• Industry Collaboration: Working with major companies like Shell Baker Hughes, Cummins, FLSmidth, Aditya Birla Group, Chevron, Infosys, Technip Energies, CPCL, and NLC India Limited.

• Research Partnerships: Collaborating with 20 university and research institute partners.

• KISEM Initiative: Partnering with Kotak Mahindra Bank's CSR initiative to assess and improve energy efficiency in over 900 firms across India.

• Climate Tech Startups: Nurturing and supporting climate tech startups.

Impact and Benefits:

• Economic Opportunities: Transforming the energy sector into a significant economic opportunity.

• Environmental Sustainability: Contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet.

• Technological Advancement: Driving innovation in energy technologies.

• Industry De-Risking: Helping industries mitigate risks associated with R&D efforts.

The Energy Consortium at IIT-Madras is poised to play a pivotal role in addressing the global climate crisis and shaping the future of energy. By combining cutting-edge research, industry partnerships, and a focus on sustainability, the consortium aims to make a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to a net-zero economy.

23rd September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav emphasized the transformative potential of India's youth during his keynote address at the Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat event held at Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS). He underlined the government's commitment to equipping the "Amrit Generation" with the tools necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

"The government is ensuring our youth are ready to enjoy the fruits of this transformative era," said Yadav, as he highlighted the pivotal role quality education, skill development, and job creation play in shaping a progressive India. He called upon the dynamic and determined youth to lead the charge in environmental sustainability and climate resilience, asserting that their energy must be harnessed to illuminate India's sustainable future.

The Minister outlined key economic reforms designed to pave the way for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), spotlighting the Jan Vishwas Bill, which aims to streamline regulations across various sectors. By removing unnecessary compliance burdens, the government is fostering a business-friendly environment that encourages growth and innovation.

"To facilitate economic development, we have launched the Gatishakti initiative, enhancing infrastructure and connectivity crucial for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)," he noted. Yadav also lauded the burgeoning startup ecosystem, highlighting government support for entrepreneurship as a cornerstone of economic reform.

In his remarks, Yadav stressed the importance of a circular economy, advocating for sustainable practices in managing waste and natural resources. He announced the establishment of a Green Fund aimed at increasing green cover, emphasizing that the nation’s path to Net Zero emissions by 2070 hinges on collective responsibility.

The Minister urged citizens to adopt a mindset of responsible consumption, particularly by avoiding single-use plastics, and called on the youth to take the reins in promoting sustainable practices. "The time is ripe for the youth to champion change in sustainable development," he declared, encouraging initiatives like tree plantations and clean energy drives.

During the event, Yadav participated in a tree plantation ceremony under the initiative 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam', reinforcing the importance of grassroots involvement in environmental conservation.

Dr. Ramesh Bhat, Vice Chancellor of NMIMS, welcomed attendees by reiterating the institution's commitment to equipping students with the skills needed for a sustainable future. SVKM President Shri Amrish Patel also highlighted his contributions to environmental initiatives through extensive tree plantation drives.

The session concluded with an inspiring video clip from the Prime Minister's "Join My Bharat" campaign, urging active youth engagement in the nation's developmental journey. The event gathered young women achievers, prominent YouTube influencers, and students to discuss climate change and India's vision for the future, highlighting the vital role of youth in shaping a greener, more sustainable world.

23rd September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

A recent design conference titled "Care, Value, Place" was held in Mumbai on 18-19 September, organized by BITS Design School in collaboration with RMIT University, Melbourne. The event aimed to use design methodologies to address ecological and social issues through community-led initiatives.

The two-day conference brought together designers and experts from various fields to discuss real-world projects that combine design with natural and social sciences, engineering, and technology. John Thackara, the conference curator, emphasized the importance of placing care for people and the planet at the center of development, suggesting that India’s traditional values may offer lessons for a more sustainable future.

Dilip Gaur from BITS Pilani highlighted that the success of initiatives depends on their scalability and sustainability, not just for the environment but also for society. Nandita Abraham, Dean of BITS Design School, noted the need for a transdisciplinary approach to tackle pressing ecological and societal issues.

Key topics included urban ecological restoration, sustainable livelihoods, and community-managed natural farming. Andrea Siodmok from RMIT University discussed the role of artificial intelligence in supporting people-centered technology.

The second day featured discussions on ethical design, community initiatives in Andhra Pradesh, and lessons from marginalized communities in Delhi. Don Norman, a pioneer in user experience design, concluded the conference by stressing the need for collaborative solutions to complex social issues.

The conference aimed to foster partnerships and develop frameworks that can be scaled and replicated, ensuring lasting positive impacts on both communities and the environment.

23rd September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

A new report by ActionAid has shed light on the staggering financial burden imposed on the Global South, as climate-destructive industries, including fossil fuels and industrial agriculture, reap over US$600 billion in public subsidies annually. Titled How the Finance Flows: Corporate Capture of Public Finance Fuelling the Climate Crisis in the Global South, the report reveals that an average of US$677 billion in public finance is funneled into these harmful sectors each year, robbing essential social services like education. This amount is sufficient to fund schooling for all children in sub-Saharan Africa 3.5 times over.

The report underscores the glaring disparity between the substantial public finance directed toward detrimental industries and the paltry climate finance grants flowing from the Global North. Alarmingly, Global South countries allocate 40 times more public finance to fossil fuels than to renewable energy, despite the urgent need for trillions to combat the escalating climate crisis.

From 2016 to 2023, the fossil fuel sector alone received an average of US$438.6 billion in public subsidies, while industrial agriculture benefited from US$238 billion per year between 2016 and 2021. This corporate capture of public funds by multinational giants like Shell and Bayer exacerbates environmental degradation, economic disparity, and social injustice.

Sandeep Chachra, Executive Director of ActionAid Association, stated, "This report highlights the neocolonial exploitation faced by the Global South, where multinational corporations and affluent nations extract resources under inequitable terms, leading to environmental harm and economic inequality. Such practices deepen poverty and erode sovereignty, trapping local economies in a cycle of low-value production."

Chachra stressed the urgency for increased accountability from both corporations and governments. "We must adopt a multi-faceted approach to curb the drain of public funds from fossil fuel industries, which are crucial for sustainable development. By uniting, Global South countries can combat harmful practices like tax avoidance and redirect funds toward renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure."

The report advocates for significant reforms, urging a shift in public finance from fossil fuels to people-centered climate solutions. It calls for scaling up decentralized renewable energy systems and demanding trillions in climate finance from the Global North. Such measures are essential to fostering just transitions in climate-vulnerable nations and curtailing the destructive financial flows that exacerbate the climate crisis.

Arthur Larok, Secretary General of ActionAid International, remarked, "This report exposes the parasitic behavior of wealthy corporations. They are draining the lifeblood of the Global South by siphoning public funds and fueling the climate crisis."

23rd September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The 128 Infantry Battalion and Ecological Task Force of the Territorial Army set a new world record by planting over 5 lakh saplings in just one hour. The plantation drive was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam' campaign and the Territorial Army's 'Bhagidari & Zimmedari' program, aimed at ecological restoration and raising environmental awareness.

The event, held on 22nd September 2024, saw active participation from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Border Security Force, Jaisalmer District Administration, local police, Border Wing Home Guards, Sankalp Taru NGO, and students from various educational institutions. The massive effort was spread across seven locations in Jaisalmer, marking a significant push towards environmental conservation.

The Territorial Army achieved several world records, including the most saplings planted by a team in one hour, and the most saplings planted by a team of women in the same timeframe. These records were provisionally certified by the World Book of Records, London, whose representatives were on-site to verify the achievement.

Under the motto "Those who protect the trees are protected," the Territorial Army’s Ecological Task Force continues to play a crucial role in India's environmental conservation efforts.

23rd September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has introduced significant amendments to the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Rules, 2023. The amendments notified effective immediately, address critical changes to compensatory afforestation requirements in cases of forest land diversion.

Key highlights include provisions for afforestation on degraded land when suitable land is unavailable, specifically benefiting projects by Central Government agencies, PSUs, and captive coal blocks. Additionally, the removal of specific clauses under Schedule-II marks a shift towards more streamlined processes in forest land management.

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23rd September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

#LivingMyPromise (LMP), a pioneering community-driven philanthropic initiative, has announced the launch of its Integrated Village Development project in Gaurahari, aiming to tackle the multifaceted challenges faced by rural communities and create a sustainable model for holistic development.

This ambitious endeavor, led by a group of LMP Promisors, has already made significant progress, with over 20,000 saplings planted by 200 farming families. This initiative not only provides additional income sources but also contributes to water conservation and environmental sustainability.

Stuthi Vijayaraghavan, Founder of Urban Venture Labs, emphasized the project's importance in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region. "With our project, we aim to demonstrate that local and sustainable livelihoods can mitigate climate change, turning this area into a climate hotspot," she stated.

Raj Mohan, Founder Director at Sustainable Green Initiative, highlighted the project's dual focus: "We are planting trees to help alleviate hunger and poverty while fighting climate change."

The Integrated Village Development project encompasses a range of initiatives, including:

• Afforestation: Planting over 20,000 saplings to enhance biodiversity and combat climate change.

• Women Empowerment: Programs designed to uplift women through education, skill development, and economic opportunities.

• Livelihood Support: Promoting sustainable livelihood options in agriculture, handicrafts, and small-scale enterprises.

• Healthcare Access: Improving healthcare facilities and promoting preventive health measures.

• Education Enhancement: Providing scholarships and infrastructure development to improve educational opportunities for children and youth.

Ravindra Kumar, General Secretary at Srijan Ek Soch NGO, stated, "Our goal is to uplift every facet of village life by enhancing education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities for youth, women, and farmers."

Gunjan Thaney, Head of LMP, explained the initiative’s collaborative nature: "#LivingMyPromise offers a platform for individuals to pledge half their wealth for social good, fostering community engagement and collaboration."

LMP’s commitment to rural development is driven by individuals who voluntarily contribute a portion of their wealth to meaningful causes. Through initiatives like the Dolphin Tank, where Promisors pitch philanthropic ideas for funding, and the LMP Annual Retreat for networking, LMP encourages impactful engagement in social good.

The voluntary nature of participation fosters a sense of ownership among Promisors, empowering them to support causes aligned with their values. Through this supportive community, LMP aims to inspire individuals to give back to society and make a lasting impact.

23rd September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

EarthyTweens, a leading online destination for children’s sustainable clothing and accessories, is excited to announce the launch of its new festive collection featuring kurta pyjama sets, suits, and dhoti sets for kids. This latest line blends traditional Indian festive attire with EarthyTweens' commitment to sustainability, providing parents with a stylish and eco-friendly option for their children.

The collection showcases a unique array of designs and colors, all handcrafted by skilled Indian artisans. Each piece is crafted from premium organic cotton and natural fabrics, ensuring comfort and durability while minimizing environmental impact. EarthyTweens continues to uphold its promise of delivering thoughtfully curated products that prioritize both children’s well-being and the health of our planet.

Ruchi Sahay, Chief Product Officer at EarthyTweens, stated, “At EarthyTweens, we believe that celebrating special moments should also benefit our planet. Our new festive clothing line marries the rich tradition of Indian attire with our commitment to sustainability. We’re thrilled to offer families beautiful, eco-friendly options that allow their children to enjoy festive occasions while supporting a greener future.”

With this launch, EarthyTweens reaffirms its dedication to creating a better world for future generations. The new festive collection further establishes the brand as a leader in sustainable children's wear, marrying tradition with eco-conscious innovation.

22nd September 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Today, September 22, marks World Rhino Day, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of rhinoceroses and the urgent need for their conservation. In India, the day is being celebrated amidst significant strides in protecting the country's iconic greater one-horned rhino population. Since 2011, World Rhino Day has been celebrated internationally.

What is the theme of the World rhino Day 2024?

Typically, the organization uses the general theme "Keep the Five Alive." This theme emphasises the importance of protecting all five rhino species: White, Black, Greater One-Horned, Javan, and Sumatran.

Where are 90% of Indian rhinoceros found?  The Indian state of Assam is home to the largest population of greater-one horned rhinos, with more than 90% in Kaziranga National Park. India's Rhino Conservation Triumph India has emerged as a global leader in rhino conservation, with Assam state boasting over 80% of the world's greater one-horned rhinos. The population has surged by an impressive 170% since the 1980s, thanks to stringent conservation measures, community involvement, and the Kaziranga Model, which emphasizes investment in forest frontlines and scientific management of wildlife habitats.

Key Achievements

• Population Growth: Rhino numbers in Assam have increased dramatically from 600 in the 1960s to over 4,000 today.

• Global Rhino Population: Kaziranga National Park is home to 70% of the global population of greater one-horned rhinos.

• Zero Tolerance to Poaching: India has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards rhino poaching, resulting in a significant decline in illegal activities.

• Habitat Expansion: Protected areas have been expanded to accommodate growing rhino populations.

Challenges and Threats Despite these successes, rhinos continue to face threats such as illegal trafficking, habitat loss, and climate change. Poaching remains a major concern, driven by the demand for rhino horns in traditional medicine and as status symbols.

Looking Ahead World Rhino Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing global efforts to protect these majestic creatures. India's remarkable achievement in conserving the greater one-horned rhino is a testament to the power of dedicated conservation strategies and community involvement. As the world faces new challenges, such as climate change and human-wildlife conflicts, it is imperative to continue investing in rhino conservation and ensure their survival for future generations.  

People curiously want to know: What day is World rhino Day? Why do we have rhino Day? What is the main theme of rhinoceros? The main theme of Ionesco's play "Rhinoceros" is the loss of individuality and the surrender to conformity. The play explores the concept of herd mentality and the pressure to conform to societal norms, even when those norms are absurd or harmful. 

Why is it called rhinoceros?

Appearance: The rhinoceros gets its name from one of its most notable features: its horns. The word rhinoceros come from the Greek words rhino meaning “nose” and ceros meaning “horn.”

An interesting finding on social media to a question is there 1 rhino left? is with all five species combined, there are just under 28,000 rhinos left in the world. This report is dedicated to the committed individuals in African and Asian Rhino Range countries working to secure the five species of rhinos in the wild.

21st Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has released the minutes of meetings of the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) for Industry Sector 1 and Sector 3 projects.

The Industry Sector 1 EAC recommended grant of EC to the proposals of Indiano SPL Pvt Ltd., Maa Mansa Iron and Power Pvt. Ltd., Rama Power And Steel Pvt Ltd,, Krishna Power Utilities Limited, Orient Cement Ltd., SBF Ispat Private Ltd., OM Sponge, and Reliance New Solar Energy Limited. JSW Samel's proposal ofr EC splitting has been deferred along with two other projects.

EAC of Industry 3 sector projects has approved the amalgamation proposal of Rallis India.  

21st Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

To mark International Coastal Cleanup Day, a large-scale beach cleaning campaign reportedly took place today at Juhu Beach, Mumbai. The event, organized by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the Government of Maharashtra. Maharashtra Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav joined the event.

During the event, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav announced new Guidelines for One-Time Financial Support aimed at supporting youth-led startups in waste recycling. 

Chief Minister Shinde, reflecting on Maharashtra’s 720 km-long coastline, emphasized the role of cleanliness in boosting tourism. He applauded the ongoing cleanliness drive that began on 17th September at Girgaum Chowpatty and will continue until 2nd October, encompassing over 100 beaches across India.

Themed "Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata", this year’s campaign focused on both environmental and cultural responsibilities to preserve marine ecosystems. Participants took pledges for beach cleanliness under the #IAMSAVINGMYBEACH campaign, initiated by the Prime Minister. They formed human chains and participated actively in beach cleaning.

The campaign is part of a larger national effort that began on World Environment Day 2018. 

What happens on International coastal Cleanup Day? The ICC is said to be the world's largest volunteer effort for our ocean. People all over the world remove trash from the shores and document what they find, and Save The Bay is proud to be the Rhode Island State Coordinator for the effort, organizing dozens of cleanups throughout the state.

According to Ocean Conservancy the history of the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) began over 35 years ago when communities united to tackle coastal trash. In 1986, inspired by a report on ocean plastics, Ocean Conservancy’s Linda Maraniss and Kathy O'Hara organized the first cleanup in Texas. They partnered with the Texas General Land Office and local businesses, encouraging volunteers not only to collect trash but also document it to help address the root causes of ocean pollution. This movement has since grown into a global initiative, connecting people across oceans and borders. 

What is the theme for World Cleanup Day 2024? International Coastal Cleanup is observed on the 3rd Saturday of September. Theme of this year International Coastal Cleanup is #SeaTheChange. 

21st Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Leena Nandan, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), addressed the Summit of the Future Side Event at the United Nations Headquarters today, focusing on "Empowering Youth for Sustainable Futures: Intergenerational Responsibility and Skills for a Just Transition."

During her opening remarks, a two-minute video on LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) was screened, showcasing India's multidimensional approach to tackling climate change. Ms. Nandan emphasized that LiFE, one of the key strategies introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at COP-26, promotes sustainable lifestyle choices that drive significant progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG12) on responsible consumption and production.

According to a release by the Press Information Bureau, she highlighted that Mission LiFE was globally launched in October 2022 by Prime Minister Modi alongside UN Secretary-General António Guterres, under the leadership of Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. The initiative encourages daily behaviour shifts towards environmentally friendly choices, with the International Energy Agency estimating that Mission LiFE could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by 2 billion tonnes annually by 2030.

Ms. Nandan underscored the importance of equipping today’s youth with the skills and tools for a just transition to a green economy, noting that India’s youth, comprising 28% of the population, hold immense potential for leading this change. She also praised India's New Education Policy, the Green Skill Development Programme, and the Skill Council for Green Jobs (SCGJ) as essential frameworks for fostering the next generation of green jobs, with an estimated 30-35 million new jobs to be created by 2047.

In addition, Ms. Nandan announced the success of India’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” or “Plant4Mother” initiative, with over 750 million trees planted between June and September 2024, further promoting environmental stewardship. It is worth noting that the Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, on 3rd September 2024 had announced that the country has achieved a significant milestone in tree plantation under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, with over 520 million saplings planted across India, which EA also reported.

20th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Heavy metal contamination in groundwater poses a significant health risk across the country. Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a groundbreaking nanomaterial-based solution to effectively reduce the presence of heavy metals like chromium.

The research team, comprising scientists from the Centre for Sustainable Technologies (CST), Department of Civil Engineering (CiE), and Department of Instrumentation and Applied Physics (IAP), has published their findings in the Journal of Water Process Engineering.

Chromium, a toxic heavy metal, often enters soil and groundwater through industrial effluents from leather tanning, electroplating, and textile manufacturing. "Urbanization and mismanagement by industries have led to the release of heavy metals into the environment," says Prathima Basavaraju, PhD student at CST and lead author of the study.

Traditional methods for removing heavy metal contamination involve pumping out groundwater and purifying it using chemical processes at a different location. The IISc team's innovative approach proposes an on-site solution using iron nanoparticles to remediate heavy metals directly in the groundwater.

The team initially experimented with nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) nanoparticles, which can react with chromium and reduce its toxicity. However, nZVI particles tend to clump together, limiting their effectiveness. To address this issue, the researchers coated nZVI with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), forming a stabilizing layer that prevents clumping and prolongs the material's life.

Furthermore, according to IISc press release the team enhanced the reactivity of CMC-nZVI by exposing it to sulfur-containing compounds in anoxic conditions. This process, called sulphidation, created a protective iron sulphide layer on the surface, improving the material's stability and efficiency.

The modified S-CMC-nZVI demonstrated exceptional performance in removing chromium from groundwater under various conditions, including different pH levels and the presence of competing ions. The team conducted experiments on contaminated sand columns and sediments, demonstrating the nanomaterial's ability to immobilize heavy metals.

GL Sivakumar Babu, Professor at CiE and CST, and co-author of the study, highlighted the potential applications of this technology, particularly in areas like Bellandur lake, which has suffered from severe contamination. The developed technique could also be used to remediate other contaminants such as cadmium, nickel, and chromium in contaminated sediments.

The IISc researchers' innovative nanomaterial-based solution offers a promising avenue for on-site remediation of heavy metal contamination in groundwater, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

20th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development (TCSRD), the CSR wing of Tata Chemicals Limited, has taken a significant step towards reducing plastic waste by launching a new initiative - the installation of a cloth bag vending machine.

The inaugural machine was unveiled on September 16th at the Beyt Dwarka Temple by MLA Shree Pabubha Manek, in the presence of Tata Chemicals officials and local dignitaries. MLA Manek, after cutting the ribbon and purchasing the first cloth bag, praised its quality and the initiative's potential to make a positive impact.

This innovative project serves as a win-win situation, addressing both environmental and social concerns. The cloth bags sold through the vending machine are produced by Self Help Groups (SHGs) under TCSRD, providing them with a steady source of income. Additionally, the bags are sold by "Nirantar," a group supporting people with disabilities, offering them meaningful employment opportunities.

Mr. N. Kamath, Chief Manufacturing Officer at Tata Chemicals, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "This initiative kills two birds with one stone, reducing plastic waste and supporting livelihoods. We plan to expand this project in the coming days with more machines at Nageshwar Temple, Dwarka Temple, and within the Tata Chemicals Township."

The vending machine operates like an ATM, allowing users to purchase a cloth bag for a nominal fee of Rs 10. With a capacity of 300 bags, the machine aims to provide a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastics.

TCSRD's commitment to fostering sustainable practices and promoting community welfare is evident through this initiative. By providing a practical solution to plastic pollution while empowering marginalized communities, TCSRD is setting a commendable example for other organizations to follow.

20th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Brandix India Apparel City (BIAC), a leading industrial park in the region, has announced its rebranding as Adhistan Integrated Industrial Park. Established in 2006, the park is undergoing a significant transformation to expand its industrial focus beyond apparel manufacturing. If you've ever wondered, 'What does Brandix do?', this information provides the answer.

Adhistan, spanning 1,000 acres, aims to become a multi-industry hub offering seamless connectivity, cutting-edge facilities, and access to a highly skilled workforce. While diversifying its industrial base, Adhistan remains committed to its legacy of sustainability, prioritizing environmentally responsible practices.

The company has a strong track record in sustainable practices. In August 2024, Adhistan was honored with the Greentech Global Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) Award for Best Practices in Environment Protection.

Adhistan has implemented a rainwater harvesting system with a combined capacity of 500 million liters, meeting 30% of its annual water usage. Additionally, the park recycles 350 million liters of wastewater per year through the Reverse Osmosis recovery process, accounting for 20% of its annual water consumption. With 30% from rainwater and 20% from recycling, Adhistan achieves 50% of its annual water supply through eco-friendly sources.

Adhistan is the first industry in the state to install a Solar Sludge Dryer, eliminating the need for landfills and ensuring zero-waste operations. The park aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2030 through continuous investment in clean energy and optimization of overall energy consumption.

Adhistan remains committed to supporting its partners and the wider community through sustainable industrial development. By fostering a collaborative environment and promoting responsible practices, the park aims to contribute positively to the region's economic growth and environmental well-being.

20th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The World Bank Group has announced a significant milestone in its climate finance efforts. In fiscal year 2024, the Group delivered a record $42.6 billion in climate finance, surpassing the previous year's figure by 10%. This investment supports countries in ending poverty, building resilient communities, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

At the recent COP28 climate summit, the World Bank Group committed to further increasing its climate finance to 45% of total lending in the current fiscal year. Additionally, the Group aims to allocate half of its public sector climate financing to adaptation efforts, emphasizing the importance of addressing the immediate impacts of climate change.

Each institution within the World Bank Group has contributed to this achievement:

• IBRD and IDA: Together, they delivered $31 billion in climate finance, with $10.3 billion allocated to adaptation and resilience.

• IFC: The private sector arm provided $9.1 billion in long-term climate finance.

• MIGA: The political risk insurance arm delivered $2.5 billion.

In total, climate financing accounted for 44% of the World Bank Group's total financing in FY24.

Examples of Climate Projects:

• Bangladesh: Construction of cyclone shelters, rehabilitation of existing shelters, coastal embankment construction, enhanced early warning systems, and erosion control.

• Vietnam: Reducing methane emissions and promoting sustainable rice farming practices in the Mekong Delta.

• Senegal and Egypt: Implementing electric Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and emissions.

20th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Capital A, a leading venture capital firm, has announced the launch of its second fund, aiming to raise Rs. 400 crore. This fund will focus on investing in promising startups operating in sectors such as manufacturing, deeptech, climate, and fintech.

With a goal of investing in 17-20 companies, Capital A will provide funding of $2-3 million over the lifecycle of each startup. The initial investment will range from $750K to $1 million. The firm's commitment to supporting innovative enterprises and driving industry transformation remains strong.

The investor base for Fund II will primarily consist of domestic investors, including family offices, industry leaders, high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), and returning partners from previous funds. Capital A aims to complete the final close of the fund by the end of 2025.

Ankit Kedia, Founder and Lead Investor at Capital A highlighted the potential of undervalued manufacturing businesses and the continued importance of sectors like climate, deeptech, and fintech. He emphasized the firm's ability to identify and nurture opportunities in these areas due to their promoter-led experience.Capital A's previous fund demonstrated their success in supporting and scaling startups, with notable examples including Chargeup, Bambrew, Jiraaf Leumas BharatSure, and Entuple. The firm's strategy of combining operational expertise, strategic partnerships, and financial backing has proven effective in fostering sustained innovation.

The climate equity landscape in India is evolving rapidly, with increasing investor interest and participation. Since 2020, the number of investors in climate enterprises has grown significantly, and last year saw a 25% increase in new climate investors. While overall funding growth has been minimal, the positive trends indicate a promising future for the sector.

Capital A's operational immersive role has provided valuable support to their portfolio companies, contributing to their growth and success. As the firm embarks on the next phase with Fund II, they remain dedicated to backing visionary entrepreneurs and advancing technologies that address pressing global challenges.

What is a climate startup? Climate startups are innovative companies focused on mitigating and adapting to climate change. They develop technological solutions like renewable energy, energy efficiency, and carbon capture to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build climate resilience.

How many climate tech startups are there in India? Reports indicate that within the startup domain, climate tech is seeing furious growth. There are an estimated 3300 climate tech startups across the country, and some of them are starting to add real value to climate action and decarbonization.

Among a common question is which Indian companies are working for climate change? Several Indian companies are actively working to combat climate change. Prominent examples include DeyHaat, rePurpose Global, Refillable, Oorja Development Solutions, econscious, NatureDots, RECKON GREEN INNOVATIONS, and PollinateEnergy. These companies are developing innovative solutions to address climate challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future.

People also ask is there money in climate tech? Indian climate tech startups saw a significant surge in funding in 2023, raising nearly $157 million across 52 deals, according to Venture Intelligence data. This momentum continued into 2024, with startups securing $45 million in funding through 12 transactions in just the first four months.

20th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade (DPP) recently met to tackle the daunting task of addressing the global plastics crisis. Participants focused on building bridges between developed and developing nations and laying the groundwork for transparent trade-related plastic measures (TrPMs).

Capacity Building: A Helping Hand

The DPP explored ways to give a leg up to developing nations in integrating trade into their efforts to combat plastics pollution. Building upon previous efforts, participants discussed strategies to hit the nail on the head in aligning funding opportunities with the specific trade-related needs of these countries.

Delegations shared their experiences with capacity-building programs, emphasizing the importance of working hand in glove with international organizations like the World Bank, OECD, and UNCTAD. These institutions can provide tailored support to help developing nations get their ducks in a row and implement sustainable trade practices.

The DPP also discussed refining its approach to matching the right people with the right jobs – in this case, funding opportunities with trade-related needs. Participants explored potential new initiatives and areas of cooperation that could be launched at the upcoming MC14 to give developing members a boost.

Inventories of Trade-Related Plastic Measures: A Clear Picture

Participants examined the potential for developing domestic inventories of TrPMs. The WTO Secretariat presented an overview of the results from the DPP's TrPM survey, highlighting gaps in available information on trade-related policies and regulations aimed at addressing plastics pollution.

A key discussion centered on the possibility of creating a global, publicly available online inventory of TrPMs – a game-changer that could shed light on the issue and promote international cooperation.

Delegations debated the utility of establishing domestic coordination mechanisms, such as focal points or interministerial committees, to keep things running smoothly and ensure a coordinated approach to addressing plastics pollution through trade policies at the domestic level.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future?

As the DPP continues its work towards MC14, the progress made reflects the participants' commitment to addressing plastics pollution through innovative, trade-related solutions. The Dialogue will reconvene in the coming months to address the remaining focus areas and fine-tune its approach to integrating trade into global efforts to combat plastics pollution.

The outcomes of these discussions will be pivotal in shaping the agenda for MC14 and ensuring that trade contributes meaningfully to turning the tide on one of the world's most pressing environmental challenges.

20th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is proposing a change to the Master Plan for Delhi - 2021. This change affects an area in Pocket-C, Gazipur, currently designated as an Integrated Freight Complex (IFC) with warehousing plots.

Here's a breakdown of the proposed change:

• Location: Pocket-C, Gazipur

• Current Use: Integrated Freight Complex (IFC) with warehousing plots (around 10 acres)

• Proposed Use: Commercial (Freight Complex) with Utility (U4) designation

What does this mean?

The proposed change aims to keep the area designated for commercial use related to freight, but with a different zoning classification within the commercial category (U4).

How to Submit Feedback:

The public can submit objections or suggestions regarding this proposal within 30 days from September 18, 2024. You can submit feedback through:

• Online portal: citzservices.dda.org.in

• Email: mpd2021.public@dda.org.in

• Written letter addressed to: Commissioner-cum-Secretary, DDA, ‘B’ Block, Vikas Sadan, New Delhi-110023

Additional Information:

• Details of the proposed change, including a map, are available for viewing at the office of Deputy Director, Master Plan Section, DDA, on working days within the 30-day period.

• The information is also available online at https://citzservices.dda.org.in

19th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Tata Power, a leading Indian power company, has announced plans to invest approximately ₹3,000 crore in a new 4GW solar cell and module manufacturing facility in Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu. The greenfield project is expected to create over 2,000 jobs and boost the state's clean energy transition.

The facility will integrate advanced technologies like Mono-PERC Bifacial and TOPCON, producing high-efficiency solar modules. It will also incorporate Industry 4.0 standards for enhanced efficiency and automation.

The new plant will be Tata Power's second solar manufacturing facility in India, complementing its existing 635MW capacity in Bengaluru. Tata power to invest renewable energy with aims to meet the growing demand for clean energy solutions in the country while contributing to sustainable development.

Tata Power plans to invest up to $9 billion to more than quadruple its renewable energy capacity to more than 20 gigawatts (GW) over the next five to six years, CEO Praveer Sinha said on Tuesday. 

People also ask: Is Tata Power working on renewable energy? This is an evident answer to their question. 

Is it good to invest in renewable energy stocks? Is Tata Power good to invest? It is always good to invest in environmentally-friendly projects. However, investments must be based on appropriate research and individual requirements.

18th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

IIT Delhi announced on 18th September the laying of the foundation stone for India’s pioneering CO2-to-Methanol pilot plant at Thermax Ltd.’s Research, Technology, and Innovation Center (RTIC) in Pune.  This groundbreaking project, supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) of the Government of India, marks a significant step in the nation's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions.

The initiative, a collaboration between the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) and Thermax Ltd., aims to advance carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies. With a designed capacity of 1.4 tons per day (TPD), the pilot plant will address CO2 emissions from various industrial sources including power plants, cement and steel industries, fertilizer production, and refineries.

The project will leverage the expertise of IIT Delhi’s Department of Chemical Engineering, which will conduct research and development (R&D) aligned with the pilot plant's objectives. The RTIC team at Thermax will focus on scaling up laboratory-developed processes to pilot plant scale, aiming to demonstrate and optimize the technology in an industrial setting.

The plant builds on the success of a previous DST-supported coal-to-methanol project. It will capture CO2 from two primary sources: syngas produced during coal gasification and flue gas from carbonaceous fuel combustion, converting it into methanol.

This pilot plant is set to be a crucial design template for future industrial applications. It will help build capacity and prepare domestic manufacturers to meet future demands for catalysts, absorbents, solvents, and other technology solutions on a commercial scale.

During the foundation stone laying ceremony, Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST, underscored the project's importance in demonstrating indigenous technology development through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The ceremony was attended by Mr. Ashish Bhandari, Managing Director and CEO of Thermax Ltd.; Prof. Naresh Bhatnagar, Dean of R&D at IIT Delhi; Dr. Anita Gupta, Adviser and Head of the Climate, Energy, and Sustainable Technology (CEST) Division of DST; and Dr. Neelima Alam, Associate Head of CEST.

Prof. Bhatnagar highlighted the need to strengthen the PPP model for effective academia-industry collaborations, emphasizing the importance of public engagement, community education, and awareness about global warming and technological solutions. Mr. Bhandari noted the significance of setting up new pilot facilities and scaling existing technologies to commercial levels. Dr. Gupta provided insights into the project’s operational mechanism.

People are curious to know about carbon neutrality to methanol, conversion of co2 to methanol, carbon dioxide hydrogenation to methanol, methanol synthesis two step, electroreduction of co2 to methanol, methanol synthesis from co2 hydrogenation, co2 hydrogenation to methanol reaction, reduction potential of methanol. This ambitious project represents a crucial step towards India’s sustainable future, showcasing innovative approaches to carbon utilization and setting a precedent for future industrial advancements.

18th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR & Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has unveiled a revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to address air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) during the upcoming winter season. The updated schedule aims to tackle 'Very Poor' and 'Severe' air quality stages, with specific actions to be enforced based on air quality index (AQI) levels.

The revised GRAP will be implemented across the NCR, with targeted measures activated according to real-time AQI forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). Key changes include stricter regulations for diesel generator (DG) sets and construction activities.

Under Stage II, categorized as ‘Very Poor’ air quality (Delhi AQI 301-400), DG sets with capacities between 62 kW and 800 kW must operate in dual fuel mode or with certified emission control devices. Smaller DG sets, ranging from 19 kW to 62 kW, must also use dual fuel mode. DG sets that cannot switch due to gas infrastructure issues are restricted to emergency services only.

In Stage III, defined as ‘Severe’ air quality (Delhi AQI 401-450), several construction and demolition activities will face a ban. This includes earthworks, demolition, and major road construction. However, less polluting activities like minor indoor repairs and certain public projects will continue under strict compliance with dust control regulations.

Additional measures include:

• Restrictions on Delhi-registered diesel-operated medium goods vehicles and non-BS-VI diesel buses.

• Prohibition of BS-III and below diesel-operated light commercial vehicles from entering Delhi unless carrying essential commodities.

• Limiting inter-state buses to those meeting environmental standards or with all-India tourist permits.

The revised GRAP, effective during the peak winter months, is designed to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution and enhance air quality management in the region. CAQM has urged citizens to adhere to the Citizen Charter under GRAP to support these efforts.

Some FAQs on CAQM include When was CAQM established?

In August 2021, the government established the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) as a statutory body.

Which day is pollution day? December 2nd is observed as National Pollution Prevention Day in India. This day is observed in the memory of people who lost their lives in Bhopal gas calamity.

CAQM under which Ministry?

CAQM is under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Who is the CAQM Chairman?

Rajesh Verma has taken charge as Chairperson of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM).

What is the grap?

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of guidelines and measures implemented to combat air pollution in India's National Capital Region (NCR), which includes Delhi and its surrounding areas. However, in accounting GRAP means Generally Recognized Accounting Practice.

CAQM directions are available at the CAQM website https://caqm.nic.in

18th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

At the closing session of RE-INVEST 2024 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the crucial role of individual responsibility in climate action. Dhankhar highlighted the need for sustainable energy use and ongoing efforts to address environmental damage and restore ecological balance. He lauded India’s climate leadership, drawing on Vedic wisdom and noting the G20 motto "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family). He also pointed out the job opportunities emerging technologies like green hydrogen offer and praised India's model of diverse, sustainable development.

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, outlined India's strategy to achieve net-zero emissions, stressing the need for sustainable ecosystem management, biodiversity conservation, and equitable development. Yadav noted that India, with 17% of the global population but only 5% of global emissions, has made significant progress in carbon emission reduction despite its diverse geography.

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, highlighted India's climate achievements under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including commitments to 540 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and $386 billion in financial investments. Joshi also emphasized the employment opportunities these commitments will create.

The summit, organized by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry and IREDA, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi and ran from September 16-18, 2024, with the theme “Invest, Innovate, Inspire.” The event was attended by Gujarat’s Governor, Punjab’s Governor, Union Ministers, and the Chief Minister of Gujarat.

17th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The term Clean was in trend today. Clean Bandit Symphony was top on search. While in India, it was a hit with a far different reference of cleanliness. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has announced its participation in the Government of India's Special Campaign 4.0, aimed at institutionalising Swachhata (cleanliness) and minimising pending matters across government offices. The campaign will run from 2nd October to 31st October 2024 and has been initiated by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG). Special attention will be given to field and outstation offices, particularly those involved in public service delivery or with significant public interaction.

Campaign Phases

The Special Campaign 4.0 comprises two key phases:

1. Preparatory Phase (16th September – 30th September 2024): During this phase, the Ministry and its departments will identify key targets across 11 parameters, including cleanliness, space management, disposal of scrap, and record management.

2. Implementation Phase (2nd October – 31st October 2024): The Ministry will carry out the identified actions, focusing on cleanliness, grievance redressal, and operational efficiency.

Achievements of MoEFCC (November 2023 – August 2024)

The Ministry has already demonstrated its commitment to the cause through significant achievements over the past year, including:

• Disposal of 10,765 public grievances.

• Freeing up 18,903 square feet of office space.

• Earning ₹21,58,918 through the disposal of scrap materials.

• Weeding out 4,883 files.

• Conducting 130 cleanliness campaigns.

Preparations Underway

In preparation for the campaign, a meeting chaired by the Special Secretary of the MoEF&CC was held on 13th September 2024. The Ministry’s Nodal Officers have been tasked with identifying sites for cleanliness, managing space and beautification, and resolving parliamentary assurances, inter-ministerial references, and public grievances.

The Ministry has expressed its dedication to achieving the targets set for the Special Campaign 4.0, ensuring that the campaign contributes to cleaner, more efficient, and responsive government offices. The campaign will cover the Ministry’s divisions, subordinate offices, and autonomous bodies across India.

Focus Areas of Special Campaign 4.0

• Cleanliness and beautification of offices and workspaces.

• Space management by removing redundant materials and scrap disposal.

• Public grievance redressal and improvement of public-facing services.

• Simplification of rules and procedures for better record management.

17th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

 A recent study by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and CO2 AI has revealed that India is outperforming the global average in carbon emissions reporting. 12% of Indian companies comprehensively report their emissions, compared to 9% globally. Additionally, India leads in target setting and emissions reduction aligned with the Paris Agreement. These findings highlight India's growing role in addressing climate change. For details subscribe 

17th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 8th India Water Week today, highlighting the urgent need for water conservation and community involvement in water management. Emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices, she urged citizens to adopt a responsible approach to water usage. The event, held under the Sustainable Development Goals, aims to promote inclusive water development and management throughout India. 

16th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala convened a high-level meeting with CEOs of leading shipping companies on September 12, 2024, as part of the ongoing WTO Public Forum. The discussion focused on the resilience of global trade and supply chains in the face of unprecedented challenges, including geopolitical tensions, climate change, and economic uncertainties.  

In her opening remarks, DG Okonjo-Iweala underscored the critical role of the shipping industry as a barometer of global trade. She commended the industry's adaptability and resilience in navigating the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and other shocks. Despite these challenges, the Director-General emphasized that there are significant opportunities to be leveraged for a more inclusive and sustainable globalization.  

The shipping executives echoed the Director-General's assessment, highlighting the strong growth in trade volumes despite geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions. They emphasized the efficiency of maritime transport and their commitment to transitioning to a net-zero emissions future. However, they also stressed the need for harmonized environmental regulations, standardization in green energy technologies, and increased public-private partnerships to support this transition.  

The discussion also touched on the importance of diversifying supply chains to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance trade opportunities for developing countries. DG Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the potential for greater inclusivity in global trade through strategic partnerships and policy reforms.

14th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

At the WTO’s Public Forum on 12th September 2024, global steel industry leaders emphasized the importance of trade policies and standardized emissions measurement methodologies in achieving their decarbonization goals. The Steel Standards Principles initiative, launched at COP28, was highlighted as key to harmonizing standards and promoting open trade to accelerate carbon reduction.

Edwin Basson, Director General of the World Steel Association, expressed optimism about the industry's progress in reducing CO2 emissions by 2030 and 2040. However, ArcelorMittal's Vice President Anne van Ysendyck pointed out the need for stronger policy support, especially in trade and energy, to eliminate barriers to decarbonization.

Adina Renee Adler, Executive Director of the Global Steel Climate Council, echoed calls for transparency and alignment of emissions measurement through initiatives like the Steel Standards Principles. She stressed the importance of predictable markets for effective climate action in the sector.

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala highlighted the opportunities for countries like Mauritania and South Africa, which are well-positioned to benefit from low-emission steel value chains due to their renewable energy potential.

The Steel Standards Principles document underlines the sector’s responsibility to reduce its 8% contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. Key principles include collaborative dialogue, interoperable standards, performance-based decarbonization, and consistency with global standards like the WTO’s TBT Agreement and IEA's Net Zero Principles. The document also promotes the development of a common definition for near-zero emissions steel and calls for regular progress reviews.

14th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Leading sustainable farming developer Aranyakaa Farms today announced the launch of their latest project, H2O - Harvesting a Brighter Tomorrow. Spanning 61 acres near Beragai, this innovative initiative aims to address Bangalore's growing water shortage through advanced water conservation measures.

H2O features rainwater harvesting, 20-30 recharge pits, recharging wells, and man-made lakes to replenish underground water sources and store surface water. The project also includes a 2.5-acre man-made lake, a sustainable clubhouse, a Gaushala, and a Biopool.

H2O features eco-friendly initiatives like a Sustainable Clubhouse, Gaushala for organic farming, Biopool, and a community Temple. Positioned in the developing Hosur Economic Corridor with improved connectivity, the project offers long-term value and investment potential. 

"We are excited to launch this initiative to address Bangalore's water scarcity and contribute to the community's well-being," said Amit Porwal, Director at Aranyakaa Farms.

13th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change organized an event in New Delhi today to mark the 30th World Ozone Day. The theme for World Ozone Day 2024 is “Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Actions,” which highlights the Protocol's crucial role in protecting the ozone layer and driving global climate action initiatives. World Ozone Day serves as a reminder of the importance of the ozone layer for life on Earth and underscores the need for ongoing climate action to safeguard it for future generations. Ms. Leena Nandan, Union Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, presided over the event.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Leena Nandan emphasized that rising temperatures are leading to an increased use of cooling systems like refrigerators and air conditioners, which in turn contributes to further temperature rise, creating a vicious cycle. She stressed that effectively implementing the Montreal Protocol is vital and is closely linked to broader efforts to combat climate change. She highlighted India's leadership in implementing the Montreal Protocol, particularly by achieving reduction targets for controlled substances ahead of schedule. This achievement has not only protected the ozone layer but has also made substantial contributions to global efforts to combat climate change.

Ms. Nandan also spoke about other initiatives by the ministry, including Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), a campaign that promotes a sustainable and environmentally conscious way of living through mindful individual choices in daily life. She also underscored the significance of the national initiative by the Prime Minister, ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,’ which is crucial for a sustainable future and the protection of Mother Earth.

The winning entries of the National Level Poster and Slogan Competitions were announced during the event. These competitions, aimed at raising awareness about ozone layer protection and promoting climate-friendly lifestyles to combat global warming, received an overwhelming response with 4,187 poster entries and 1,299 slogan entries submitted through a dedicated web portal.

The event also saw the release of the 26th edition of "Montreal Protocol: India’s Success Story," the "Action Plan for Implementation of Recommendation of India Cooling Action Plan" with respect to the transport air conditioning sector, and the third edition of "News TRAC," a quarterly news magazine for refrigeration and air conditioning technicians. Several guidebooks were also launched, including "Sustainable Technologies for Cold Chain Sector," "Sustainable Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Equipment," and "Passive Cooling Strategies for Sustainable Buildings."

India, a Party to the Montreal Protocol since June 1992, has successfully implemented the Protocol and phased out ozone-depleting substances in line with the agreed schedule. By 1st January 2010, India had phased out Chlorofluorocarbons, Carbon Tetrachloride, Halons, Methyl Bromide, and Methyl Chloroform for controlled uses as per the Protocol's guidelines. Currently, India is working on phasing out Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) according to the accelerated schedule of the Montreal Protocol.

13th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) hosted the Global Summit on Sustainability: MSMEs – Small Businesses, Big Impact at Le Meridien, New Delhi, spotlighting the role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in fostering sustainable growth and combating climate challenges. The summit gathered industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability advocates to emphasize the significance of MSMEs in driving innovation and sustainable development in India.

MSMEs: Key Contributors to India's Economy and Sustainability Efforts

Dr. Ashok Kumar, Deputy Director General of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of Power, highlighted in his keynote address that MSMEs account for 50% of India's exports and employ 11-12 crore people. He underscored the urgency for MSMEs to adopt energy-efficient practices, noting that six out of nine planetary climate boundaries have been breached. Dr. Kumar announced a ₹1,000 crore fund approved in principle by the Government of India to provide interest subvention for MSMEs adopting green energy projects, complementing BEE's ongoing efforts.

Call for a Comprehensive Policy Framework

R.R. Rashmi, Former Special Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, advocated for a policy framework to include MSMEs under SEBI mandates or CSR guidelines. He proposed green ratings and green procurement policies to align MSMEs with national sustainability goals and suggested incorporating MSMEs into India’s evolving carbon market through green credits.

Leveraging Innovation and Corporate Leadership for Green Transition

Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General, PHDCCI, emphasized the potential of India’s 65 million MSMEs and startups to lead in sustainability. He proposed establishing sustainability parks to support green innovation, inspired by Taiwan’s Plastic EcoPark model. Corporate leaders such as Mr. Jeevaraj Pillai from UFlex Limited and Mr. Rajesh Ayapilla from Coca-Cola India shared insights on aligning CSR with sustainability to drive business success.

Financial Support and Market Mechanisms for MSMEs

Dr. R K Singh of SIDBI introduced the Sustainability Perception Index to gauge MSMEs' preparedness for sustainable growth and highlighted SIDBI’s green financing initiatives. Mr. Saurabh Diddi from BEE discussed India's plans for a national carbon market to set emission targets and incentivize carbon reduction through compliance and offset mechanisms.

A Global Call to Action for Sustainable Development

In a virtual address, Dia Mirza, United Nations Advocate for SDGs, urged MSMEs to align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to unlock new markets and enhance competitiveness. She lauded PHDCCI's efforts in empowering MSMEs to embrace sustainability.

The summit concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Jatinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General, PHDCCI, reiterating the collective responsibility in driving sustainable economic growth. The event underscored MSMEs' vital role in addressing global climate challenges through innovative strategies and sustainable practices.

12th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) have made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the field of energy storage. By utilizing laser irradiation, they have developed a novel method to introduce controlled defects into Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), significantly enhancing the performance of MOF-based supercapacitors.

Supercapacitors, renowned for their high power density and rapid charge-discharge capabilities, are increasingly sought after for applications ranging from electric vehicles to grid-scale energy storage. MOFs, with their porous structures and high surface areas, have emerged as promising materials for supercapacitor electrodes. However, their performance can be limited by the presence of defects in their crystal structure.

Traditional methods for creating defects in MOFs, such as thermal annealing, chemical exposure, and ball milling, often lack the precision needed for fine-tuning. This can result in uncontrolled defects that may not be beneficial to the material's performance.

The INST researchers overcame these limitations by carefully adjusting the laser power during irradiation. This allowed them to systematically regulate the number and type of defects introduced into the MOF material. The result was a significant increase in the electrode's surface area and activity, leading to improved supercapacitor performance.

The novelty of this technique lies in its ability to enhance the activity of the MOF material without altering its crystal structure. While some bonds may rupture during laser irradiation, the overall structure remains intact due to the strong bonding between the atoms. This allows for the creation of pores throughout the MOF material, providing a microchannel pathway for ion diffusion.

The researchers believe that this new method could have a profound impact on the development of high-performance supercapacitors. By applying it to various other MOF materials, scientists can explore new possibilities for energy storage and other applications.

12th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The second day of the International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH-2024) witnessed several key developments, including India's announcement of a partnership with the European Hydrogen Week and a Letter of Intent (LoI) between Chane Terminal and ACME Cleantech for Ammonia import terminals.

The conference featured sessions with representatives from the EU, Australia, and the Netherlands, discussing the scope and challenges of the green hydrogen sector. The EU session focused on reforming the Emission Trading System (ETS) to encourage hydrogen adoption, while the Australian session emphasized the need for international collaboration. The Netherlands session highlighted its comprehensive strategy for advancing global hydrogen advancements.

A Youth Session was also a highlight of the day, with participants discussing the role of youth in climate action and sustainability. The session featured addresses from Shri Ajay Yadav, Secretary of MNRE, Professor Ajay K. Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser, and Ms. Saina Nehwal, Olympic Medallist.

A GH2Thon Hackathon was also organized, with Nandlal Gupta from IIT Bombay emerging as the winner. The event showcased innovative solutions for advancing green hydrogen technology.

ICGH-2024 continues to be a significant platform for driving forward #greenhydrogen technologies and establishing vital partnerships for a sustainable future.

12th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Eastman Auto & Power Ltd. (EAPL) has announced key additions to its leadership team at its annual leadership meet, Elevate. The company, which recently reported a turnover of over Rs. 3,600 crores in FY 2023-24, is aiming to reach Rs 10,000 crores by FY 25-26 through strategic investments in Solar Rooftop Solutions and Last Mile E-Mobility Solutions.

To support its growth ambitions, EAPL has brought in seasoned industry professionals to fill crucial roles. Ashok Jain has been appointed as Chief Finance Officer, while Mantosh Kumar will serve as Vice President of Finance Planning & Analysis. Daulat Sati has been named Service Head, and Nirvikar Sharma and Sunil Sood will lead Sales for INDIA 1 and INDIA 2, respectively. Ritesh Srivastava will oversee Supply Chain Management, Bhupinder Singh will head Exports, and Sudham Ravinutala will take on the role of Chief Marketing Officer.

Shekhar Singal, MD of EAPL, expressed his enthusiasm for the new appointments, stating that they will help the company achieve its goal of becoming a global leader in Solar Rooftop Solutions and Last Mile E-Mobility Solutions.

12th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Orkla India, a leading FMCG company, has announced a strategic partnership with CleanMax, a renewable energy solutions provider, to accelerate its sustainability goals. The partnership involves a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) for a 6.6 MWp solar captive power project located in Jagaluru, Karnataka.

Under the agreement, CleanMax will develop, operate, and maintain the solar plant, providing renewable energy to Orkla India's factories in Karnataka. The project is expected to generate 10 million KWh units per annum, reducing carbon emissions by 7500 tons annually.

This initiative aligns with Orkla India's global sustainability objectives and will contribute to its efforts to achieve net-zero emissions across its manufacturing units in Karnataka. The company's Director of Sustainability, Niklas Stoltz, stated, "This partnership with CleanMax is a significant step towards powering change in the FMCG industry. By transitioning to 100% renewable electricity in Karnataka, we are demonstrating our commitment to sustainable manufacturing."

Kuldeep Jain, Founder and Managing Director of CleanMax, expressed his enthusiasm for the expanded partnership with Orkla India. He emphasized the company's focus on enabling Orkla's shift to clean energy and its contribution to a more sustainable future.

12th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has introduced new guidelines for environmental compensation in line with the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022. These guidelines are designed to ensure compliance from all parties involved in battery management, including producers, dealers, consumers, and entities handling waste batteries.

The guidelines outline two key regimes for calculating environmental compensation (EC). The first regime addresses non-compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) targets, with specific costs associated with different battery types. The second regime covers other types of non-compliance, such as documentation and procedural issues, with escalating penalties for repeated defaults.

The guidelines also include provisions for handling delayed payments and non-compliance, emphasizing financial accountability and effective management of battery waste. For details subscribe #battery #batterywaste

11th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

In a major move to strengthen India's climate resilience, electric mobility, and hydroelectric power infrastructure, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved three transformative schemes with a combined outlay of over Rs. 25,000 crore.

Mission Mausam: A Push for Weather and Climate Preparedness

The Union Cabinet approved the 'Mission Mausam' initiative with a budget allocation of Rs. 2,000 crore over the next two years. The program, primarily implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is designed to make India more weather-ready and climate-smart by enhancing weather and climate science, research, and services.

Mission Mausam aims to tackle extreme weather events and climate change impacts by incorporating next-generation radars, advanced satellite systems, and high-performance supercomputers. It will also integrate cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to provide highly accurate and timely weather forecasts and climate information across various scales.

The mission will directly benefit sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, defence, aviation, water resources, and health, while enhancing data-driven decision-making in urban planning, transportation, and environmental monitoring. Three key institutes under the Ministry of Earth Sciences—the India Meteorological Department, the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and the National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting—will spearhead its implementation, with support from national and international collaborators.

PM E-DRIVE Scheme: Accelerating Electric Mobility in India

The Cabinet also approved the 'PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme' with an outlay of Rs. 10,900 crore over two years to promote electric mobility in India. The scheme is aimed at expediting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by providing upfront incentives, streamlining the EV purchasing process, and establishing a robust charging infrastructure.

Key components of the PM E-DRIVE Scheme include subsidies worth Rs. 3,679 crore to support e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, and e-trucks. It introduces e-vouchers for EV buyers to avail incentives, while also allocating Rs. 4,391 crore for the procurement of 14,028 e-buses in major cities. An additional Rs. 500 crore has been set aside for deploying e-ambulances, a significant step toward integrating EVs into the healthcare sector.

The scheme promotes the installation of 22,100 fast chargers for e-4Ws, 1,800 fast chargers for e-buses, and 48,400 fast chargers for e-2Ws/3Ws with an allocation of Rs. 2,000 crores. It also allocates Rs. 780 crores for modernizing vehicle testing infrastructure to keep pace with emerging EV technologies.

Hydro Power Development: Enhancing Infrastructure for Hydro Electric Projects

Additionally, the Cabinet approved modifications to the scheme of budgetary support for enabling infrastructure for Hydro Electric Projects (HEPs) with an outlay of Rs. 12,461 crores. The revised scheme, set to be implemented from FY 2024-25 to FY 2031-32, aims to promote faster development of hydroelectric projects by expanding the scope of infrastructure support.

Under the revised scheme, budgetary support will now include not only the construction of roads and bridges but also transmission lines, ropeways, railway sidings, and communication infrastructure essential for project locations. The scheme will be applicable to all Hydro Power Projects above 25 MW capacity and includes a provision for Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs).

The modifications aim to attract fresh investments in the hydro power sector, incentivize timely completion of projects, and create significant employment opportunities in remote and hilly regions.

10th Sep 2024 YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Blogger

Mahananda wildlife sanctuary. Mahananda wildlife sanctuary is located in which state? West Bengal. 

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has issued a draft notification dated 6th September 2024 and published on 9th September 2024 declaring the area surrounding Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ). This notification supersedes the earlier one issued on 22nd September 2020. The Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahananda, also pronounced as Móhɑ́nɑ́ndaa, is located on the foothills of the Himalayas in the Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri districts of West Bengal. It is situated between the Teesta and Mahananda rivers. It spans 161.17 square kilometers and is known for its rich biodiversity, hosting a variety of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species.

Key Features of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary:

• Flora: The sanctuary boasts diverse plant species, including endemic species like Phoenix rupicola, and trees such as neem (Azadirachta indica), sal (Shorea robusta), and rudraksha (Elaeocarpus sphaericus). The vegetation includes a mix of tropical and subtropical trees, which play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

• Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a range of mammals like the Royal Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris), Indian elephant (Elephas indicus), Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus laniger), and clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa). It also supports various bird species, including the Himalayan hawk-eagle and blossom-headed parakeet, reptiles like the King Cobra, and amphibians such as the Indian Bull Frog. Birds at Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary includes some very endangered species like Rufous-necked Hornbill, Oriental Pied Hornbill, Great Hornbill etc. Among the others swallow, swift, thrush, babbler, warbler, roller, minivet and sunbird can be found in abundance.

• Importance as a Wildlife Corridor: The sanctuary serves as a crucial corridor for the migration of elephants between different forested areas, including Gorumara National Park and Kalimpong forests, ensuring genetic diversity and sustainability of species populations.

Reasons for Notification as an Eco-Sensitive Zone:

• The sanctuary is surrounded by tea gardens, villages, and rivers that contribute to its unique forest and riverine ecosystem. However, these areas are also under anthropogenic pressure from nearby human activities.

• The notification aims to regulate activities around the sanctuary to reduce human impact and prevent environmental degradation. The specified ESZ extends 1 kilometer to 18.16 kilometers from the boundary of the sanctuary.

Conservation Measures:

• Prohibition of Certain Activities: To protect the sanctuary's ecological balance, the notification proposes restrictions on certain industrial operations and processes in the ESZ.

• Regulation of Anthropogenic Pressure: The notification underlines the need to regulate human activities that threaten the sanctuary's fragile ecosystem.

• Conservation and Protection Efforts: These measures are critical to ensuring the conservation of the sanctuary's biodiversity, which includes both floral and faunal diversity.

Public Consultation Process:

• The draft notification has been published for public consultation, inviting objections or suggestions from individuals, stakeholders, or organizations within 60 days from the date the notification is made available to the public.

• The inputs can be sent to the Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, New Delhi, or via email at esz-mef@nic.in.

10th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

Deputy Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Jean-Marie Paugam, has called for innovative approaches to integrate trade and environmental policies, warning that the absence of multilateral cooperation could lead to trade fragmentation. Speaking at the Forum on Trade, Environment, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Geneva, Paugam emphasized the WTO’s adaptability in addressing diverse environmental goals among its members.

Paugam highlighted the transformative impact of sustainable policies on global trade and the need for "re-globalization," an inclusive approach to globalization as promoted by WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. He cited green hydrogen as an example of a potential trade opportunity that requires coordinated globalization policies to fully capitalize on its benefits.

He outlined two possible paths: multilateral cooperation, which has had successes like the 2022 agreement to end harmful fishing subsidies, and spontaneous, market-driven approaches, which often lead to fragmented and sub-optimal outcomes. He stressed that a shift from traditional WTO negotiation tactics focused on trade concessions to a model that values cooperation for public goods and shared benefits is crucial.

Paugam also pointed to recent progress through WTO plurilateral dialogues, such as the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD), which have identified actionable measures for members to implement immediately. He argued that the WTO framework is flexible enough to accommodate varying national preferences, encouraging countries to adopt diverse strategies to achieve shared environmental goals.

Concluding his remarks, Paugam emphasized the urgency of multilateral action to optimize the green transition in global trade, urging members to leverage the WTO's platform to prevent economic fragmentation and enhance policy efficiency. #tradeandenvironment #greenhydrogen #grentransition

9th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, addressed the media today at Rajeev Gandhi Bhawan, New Delhi, about the upcoming 2nd Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation, scheduled from 11th to 12th September 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Co-hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, this conference will focus on air safety, security, and sustainability in the Asia-Pacific region.

Naidu highlighted the significance of this conference in the context of India's aviation sector, which is undergoing significant growth and transformation. He emphasized India's emergence as a major hub for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, cargo operations, and regional aviation, driven by policies such as UDAN and the development of new greenfield airports.

The Minister underscored that sustainability will be a central theme of the conference, addressing challenges like infrastructure development, market gaps, and workforce shortages. "Our vision is not only to fuel the growth of Indian civil aviation but also to play a pivotal role in the region’s aviation ecosystem," he said.

The conference will feature symposiums and seminars on key topics including airspace optimization, cybersecurity, and achieving net-zero carbon emissions. It aims to foster cooperation among public and private sectors, airlines, regulatory bodies, and industry experts to address shared challenges and unlock the potential of the region's aviation sector.

Naidu expressed optimism that the conference would lead to the adoption of the ‘Delhi Declaration,’ which would serve as a roadmap for sustainability in civil aviation, focusing on air safety, air navigation, security, and environmental commitments. #sustainabilityinaviation 

9th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

Following the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies event held in Jaipur on 7th September 2024, the government announced that a performance-based grant of ₹19,612 crore has been allocated to 131 cities for implementing city-specific clean air action plans from 2019-20 to 2025-26. Of this, ₹11,211 crore has already been disbursed to these cities to achieve a 40% reduction in PM10 levels or to meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) by 2025-26. The meeting highlighted activities in various sectors such as road dust management, vehicular pollution control, waste management, urban greening, and industrial pollution mitigation.

The government also reported the development of 3,776 hectares of city forests under the Nagar Van Yojana across 64 cities included in the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), with a sanctioned amount of ₹142 crore. Other cities were encouraged to utilize available resources under the scheme to expand green spaces, which play a crucial role in reducing urban air pollution.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav outlined significant improvements in air quality across 95 cities, with 18 cities meeting the NAAQS for PM10 levels in 2023-24. Furthermore, 51 cities have achieved a 20% reduction in PM10 levels, and 21 cities have reached a 40% reduction, reflecting progress in the national efforts to curb air pollution.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), a reduction in just one common pollutant, PM2.5, could lead to a 16% increase in employment growth and a 33% boost in productivity. The absence of comprehensive data on PM2.5 levels from India, especially at a time when the nation faces severe unemployment challenges, needs urgent attention.

This year's theme for the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, "Invest in #CleanAirNow," underscores the need for immediate global action to ensure a healthier and more prosperous future for both people and the planet. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that "investing in clean air requires actions by both government and businesses to phase out fossil fuels, strengthen air quality monitoring, enforce air quality standards, boost renewable energy, transition to clean cooking, build sustainable transport and waste management systems, clean up supply chains, and reduce harmful emissions, including methane."

In India, while the government's statement highlights its own share of investment in clean air initiatives, it remains silent on the investments made by the private sector, which is particularly pertinent given the significant pollution from vehicles, despite the adoption of BS-VI norms and the expansion of CNG infrastructure. There is a pressing need for transparency regarding government-verified investments by businesses to not only meet regulatory compliance but also to go beyond compliance in addressing air pollution and promoting tree plantation efforts. Furthermore, the scale of plastic pollution in the air, especially share in PM2.5, remains unquantified, and there is no information on any studies or actions undertaken by plastic waste generators to mitigate this growing concern.

The lack of detailed data on these critical areas underscores the need for a more comprehensive and accountable approach to tackling air pollution in India. As the global community calls for increased investments in clean air, both public and private sectors must collaborate to address the multifaceted challenges of air quality management and ensure sustainable development.

7th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, or Swachh Vayu Diwas, was prominently observed in Jaipur. The event featured Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change Bhupender Yadav and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, among others.

Hosted by the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board, the observance highlighted the progress of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). A video presentation detailed improvements in 131 NCAP cities, with 95 cities showing reduced air pollution. Notably, 51 cities reported over 20% reduction in PM10 levels compared to the base year 2017-18, and 21 cities achieved reductions over 40%.

The release of the ‘Compendium on Viable Technologies and Practices: Lessons from NCAP Cities’ showcased successful air quality initiatives tailored to local needs. Additionally, 100 saplings were planted under the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Swachh Vayu Survekshan Awards recognized cities for their air quality management: Surat, Jabalpur, and Agra (Category-1); Firozabad, Amravati, and Jhansi (Category-2); and Raebareli, Nalgonda, and Nalagarh (Category-3). The Municipal Commissioners of these cities received cash prizes, trophies, and certificates.

Bhupender Yadav praised the award-winning cities and urged all NCAP cities to strengthen multi-stakeholder partnerships and invest in air quality initiatives. He encouraged young scientists and researchers to participate in the Ideas4LiFE campaign, focusing on seven Mission LiFE themes.

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma reiterated the commitment to a cleaner environment, highlighting state initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.’ He reported over 7 crore saplings planted in Rajasthan and announced plans for a ‘Green Growth Budget’ and electric buses.

The world observed the fifth annual International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies on 7th September 2024, emphasizing the urgent need for investment in clean air solutions amidst escalating public health, environmental, and economic impacts of air pollution. Despite this, there was no data provided on investments by the winning cities, governments, or businesses. Notably, the day did not generate significant online interest, with only 191 searches recorded on 7th September 2024. Uttar Pradesh led with 100 of these searches. Additionally, there is no available search data for Swachh Vayu Diwas, indicating that the Ministry has struggled to raise awareness and generate interest in the event among the Indian public.

6th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

The Ministry of Steel has released a comprehensive report titled "Greening the Steel Sector in India: Roadmap and Action Plan," detailing a strategic pathway for decarbonizing India's steel industry. The report, which will be officially launched at the "Greening Steel: Pathway to Sustainability" event on 10th September 10, 2024 in New Delhi, outlines the challenges, technological innovations, and future outlook for achieving sustainability in the steel sector.

What is green steel in India? Green steel is steel produced with a significantly reduced carbon footprint. This is achieved by replacing conventional coal-based processes with cleaner alternatives. India, as a major steel producer, is taking initial steps towards green steel production, but there's a long way to go.

The event will feature representatives from various Ministries, Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), think tanks, academia, institutions, and major players in the steel industry. A panel discussion titled "Leadership and Innovation: Driving the Green Steel Transition" will bring together experts and industry veterans to discuss strategies for fostering leadership and innovation in driving a green transition in the sector.

Key Highlights of the Report

The report on "Greening the Steel Sector in India" is the result of collaborative efforts by 14 Task Forces set up by the Ministry of Steel. The document addresses the current state, challenges, technological advancements, and future roadmap for decarbonizing the steel sector in India. The report is structured around several key focus areas:

1. Current State and Challenges: The report provides an overview of the steel sector's current carbon footprint in India and the challenges associated with reducing emissions and transitioning to greener processes.

2. Key Levers of Decarbonization: It highlights critical strategies such as energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, material efficiency, process transition, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), and the use of green hydrogen and biochar.

3. Technological Innovations: A focus on the latest technological advancements and practices that can facilitate emission reduction in the steel sector, including innovative production methods and sustainable practices.

4. Policy Frameworks: An examination of existing policies and recommendations for new policy enhancements that can support the decarbonization agenda in alignment with India's nationally determined commitments (NDC) for achieving net-zero emissions.

5. Future Outlook: The report envisions a sustainable future for the steel industry and emphasizes the roles of various stakeholders, including government bodies, industry players, and research institutions.

6. Roadmap and Action Plan: Detailed strategies and interventions needed from both the government and the steel industry to achieve low carbon emissions. This includes specific actions, timelines, and responsibilities for various stakeholders.

Driving Towards a Sustainable Future

The Ministry of Steel aims to implement the strategies and action plan outlined in the report to reduce carbon emissions in the steel sector, aligning with India's broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions. The report is expected to play a pivotal role in guiding the steel industry toward a low-carbon future by encouraging collaboration, innovation, and policy support.

Here are some compelling and relevant facts. Which is the first green steel brand in India? Kalyani Ferresta brand steel is the first-of-its-kind steel manufactured by a Pune-based steel company Kalyani Group. It is said to be manufactured using renewable energy resources to bring zero carbon footprint in the environment. 

Who discovered green steel in India? Professor Veena Sahajwalla has pioneered research into waste – turning it into new green materials and products. She is reportedly best known for her invention of 'green steel' technology, which uses carbon extracted from old tyres to replace coal or coke in steel manufacturing. 

6th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

A recent study by IPE Global and Esri India reveals that more than 85% of Indian districts are vulnerable to climate extremes such as floods, droughts, cyclones, and heatwaves. Alarmingly, 45% of these districts are experiencing "swapping trends," where areas traditionally prone to one type of climate event are now facing different or multiple hazards. The study highlights a four-fold increase in the frequency, intensity, and unpredictability of such events in recent decades.

Using spatial and temporal modeling, the study provides a district-level assessment over a 50-year period (1973–2023) and notes that the last decade alone has seen a five-fold rise in these climate extremes. Released at the Climate Technology Summit, the report emphasizes the need for hyper-local risk assessments and suggests establishing a Climate Risk Observatory (CRO) and an Infrastructure Climate Fund (ICF) to build resilience against climate risks.

Agendra Kumar, Managing Director of Esri India, underscored the importance of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology in mitigating climate risks by integrating diverse data sets for better decision-making. The study also points out that over 60% of districts in states like Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Gujarat face multiple extreme climate events, with eastern and northeastern zones more prone to flooding.

The study's author, Abinash Mohanty, Head of Climate Change and Sustainability Practice at IPE Global, warned that 1.47 billion Indians could be exposed to severe climate extremes by 2036. He advocates for increased investment in climate risk observatories and infrastructure climate funds to safeguard sensitive sectors like agriculture and industry. The findings reveal that droughts have doubled, and cyclones have quadrupled in frequency, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, unplanned land use, and unsustainable activities. Ashwajit Singh, Founder and Managing Director of IPE Global, called for a shift from mitigation to adaptation in budget priorities to enhance climate resilience.

Overall, the study's comprehensive district-level analysis of climate risks serves as a call to action for policymakers to prioritize local-level interventions to combat the accelerating climate crisis in India.

In a striking revelation, a recent World Bank report highlights the continued oversight of education within the climate agenda, even as it shows that an astounding 400 million students have been impacted by climate-related school closures since 2022. Education stands as a pivotal asset in the pursuit of effective climate action. Yet, it remains conspicuously marginalized within the global climate agenda, receiving a negligible share of climate finance. Redirecting substantial climate funding towards education could profoundly enhance efforts in climate change mitigation and adaptation. Conversely, climate change poses a formidable threat to education systems worldwide. This stark reality underscores the urgent need to integrate education more centrally into climate strategies to fortify both human and environmental resilience.

6th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

In a significant stride towards transforming waste management in India, the Rubber, Chemical, and Petrochemical Skill Development Council (RCPSDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Paripatram, a leading organization committed to waste management and environmental sustainability. This strategic partnership aims to enhance skill development and formalize labor within India's rapidly growing waste sector, which is crucial for both environmental sustainability and economic growth.

Addressing India's E-Waste Challenge:

As India emerges as one of the world's largest producers of electronic waste, with the sector growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 15%, there is an urgent need for organized and skilled management practices. Paripatram, through this partnership with RCPSDC, aims to address this mounting challenge by directly focusing on integrating informal workers into the formal economy. This integration is designed to improve their livelihoods, while simultaneously promoting responsible and sustainable waste handling practices nationwide.

The initiative aligns with key national missions such as Skill India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), and Make in India, reinforcing Paripatram's commitment to promoting sustainable development. By fostering a skilled and certified workforce in the waste management sector, the partnership underscores the importance of addressing environmental concerns while also contributing to India's socio-economic development.

Collaboration for Skill Development and Formalization of Workforce

The RCPSDC has been a key player in skill development across the rubber, chemical, and polymer/plastic industries. The organization focuses on enhancing workforce capabilities through targeted training programs. The collaboration with Paripatram marks a pivotal step forward in building a skilled workforce for the waste management sector.

"This collaboration is in line with national missions like Skill India and Clean India," stated Saif Mohammad, CEO of RCPSDC. "We are eager to partner with Paripatram to develop a strong workforce in the waste management sector, supporting India's Vision 2047 through the creation of sustainable jobs and promoting inclusive economic growth."

Anwar Shirpurwala, Managing Director of Paripatram, echoed similar sentiments, stating, "Formalizing and training individuals in the informal sector is crucial for successful waste management in India. By partnering with RCPSDC, our goal is to provide informal workers with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle e-waste responsibly and effectively, while also supporting the country's social, economic, and environmental development."

Paripatram’s Role in E-Waste Management Across India’s 100 Smart Cities

As part of this collaboration, Paripatram will implement skill development programs across India's 100 smart cities, focusing on areas where e-waste generation is particularly high. This initiative will prioritize upskilling local workers to enhance efficiency and safety in e-waste management. It also aims to promote sustainable employment and social inclusion by providing formal training and certification to those currently working in the informal sector.

The programs are designed to introduce modern waste management techniques, including segregation, recycling, and disposal of electronic waste, in an environmentally friendly manner. These steps are expected to improve the efficiency of e-waste management practices across the country, contributing to the larger goals of economic impact and environmental protection.

Era of Responsible and Skill-Driven Waste Management

This partnership is set to redefine the waste management landscape in India, establishing a precedent for responsible, skill-driven solutions that prioritize the well-being of both people and the planet. It represents a significant move towards sustainable development by aligning the goals of economic growth with environmental stewardship.

The collaboration between RCPSDC and Paripatram is also a timely reminder of the potential of public-private partnerships in driving meaningful change. As India continues to grow and develop, the need for skilled workers in critical sectors like waste management becomes ever more apparent. This partnership not only aims to fill that gap but also sets the stage for other sectors to follow suit in aligning with India's vision for sustainable growth.

The MoU between RCPSDC and Paripatram marks an important milestone in the journey toward a more sustainable future for India. By focusing on the formalization and skill development of workers in the waste management sector, the partnership holds the promise of addressing one of India's most pressing environmental challenges while also fostering inclusive economic growth.

Interestingly, while critical topics like environmental sustainability and waste management dominate the news, lighter trends like the "Pumpkin Spice Season" also capture public attention. From “pumpkin spice potpourri” to “pumpkin spice hand soap,” these quirky topics have found their niche in news and social media, highlighting the varied and dynamic nature of public discourse. Team Pumpkin’s popularity shows how diverse public interests can range from serious socio-economic issues to seasonal fads.

5th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

A one-day National Seminar on Biomass Supply Chain Management: Challenges, Opportunities, and Developments concluded today at the MGSIPA Complex in Chandigarh. The seminar, organized by Sardar Swaran Singh National Institute of Bio-Energy Technology (SSS-NIBE), Kapurthala, aimed to address the critical issues and explore potential solutions for efficient biomass supply chain management in India.  

Key Takeaways from the Seminar:

• Importance of Biomass Supply Chains: The seminar highlighted the crucial role of well-managed biomass supply chains in India's transition to a "circular bio-economy". Efficient supply chains are essential for addressing issues like stubble management and preventing farm fires.

• Need for Demand-Side Focus: The Chief Guest, Satish Upadhyay, emphasized the importance of viewing biomass supply chain management from the demand side and creating market-driven mechanisms for offtake.

• Harnessing the Potential of Biomass: The Guest of Honour, Pritpal Singh, stressed the need to utilize biomass through modern bioenergy pathways rather than wasting it. He also highlighted the importance of making biomass available at a minimum cost to ensure economic viability.

• Government Policies and Initiatives: The seminar showcased the government's efforts to promote bioenergy through various policies and initiatives, such as the "BioE3 Policy" and the "SAMARTH" Mission.

• Challenges and Opportunities: Participants discussed the challenges faced in biomass supply chain management, including storage, transportation, and leakage, as well as the opportunities for innovation and technological advancements.

Expert Insights and Case Studies: The seminar featured presentations by experts from government agencies, research institutions, and industry. Case studies on successful biomass utilization projects were shared to provide practical insights and learnings.

The National Seminar on "Biomass Supply Chain Management" concluded with a panel discussion on the challenges and the way forward. The event provided a valuable platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, explore potential solutions, and contribute to the development of a sustainable and efficient biomass supply chain in India.

4th September 2024 YouTube X LinkedIn

The Government of India is organising the 2nd International Conference on Green Hydrogen from 11-13 September at the Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. At the curtain-raiser ceremony held today, Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New & Renewable Energy; Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution highlighted the conference's significance in advancing India's Green Hydrogen ecosystem.

"The second edition of International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH 2024) marks a significant milestone in our endeavour towards making India the global hub for the production of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives. This year, the three-day event will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators from around the world to explore the latest advancements in Green Hydrogen technology."

Through the National Green Hydrogen Mission, India is expected to be placed as the global hub to produce Green Hydrogen and its derivatives. The conference is said to provide a platform for showcasing products, services and technologies to a global audience. There may be discussions on green financing, human resource upskilling and start-up initiatives.  

As part of its quest towards energy transition, the first edition of the International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH) 2023 was successful in bringing together stakeholders from India and across the world, to explore establishing a Green Hydrogen ecosystem and foster a systemic approach for meeting the global goals for decarbonization through Green Hydrogen.

Since the inaugural edition, the Indian mission has achieved significant progress namely awarding capacity of 3000 MW for electrolyser manufacturing; 4,12,000 Tonnes Per Annum (TPA) for Green Hydrogen production; issued tenders for 4,50,000 TPA of Green Hydrogen capacity and 7,39,000 TPA of Green Ammonia production. Pilot projects are likely to be initiated in the steel, shipping and mobility sector. The government has also launched the R&D scheme with an outlay of Rs. 400 crores to support the research activities in the Green Hydrogen ecosystem.

The timing of the conference is particularly significant as nations worldwide intensify their efforts to combat climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Developing Green Hydrogen technologies offer a promising pathway to meet this demand sustainably while achieving the country's ambitious climate goals.

The minister highlighted several innovative components of the conference, including a Green Hydrogen Hackathon, GH2THON, a youth session, Green Hydrogen for Youth, and poster and quiz competitions. These initiatives are designed to engage a wide range of participants and foster innovation in the field.

According to a government release, the Scientific Poster Competition Finals on Hydrogen & Fuel Cells Research scheduled for 12 September has attracted more than 100 abstracts. The competition offers prize money: ₹50,000 for first place, ₹30,000 for second, and ₹20,000 for third.

Additionally, five finalist teams selected through an intense preliminary round, will compete for prizes of ₹50,000, ₹35,000, and ₹15,000 for first, second, and third places, respectively, in the #ICGH2024 Green Hydrogen Quiz Finale.

For more information and registration details, please visit the official conference website at https://icgh.in

It is also pertinent to deliberate "What is the National Green Hydrogen Mission by 2030?" The National Green Hydrogen Mission has an outlay of ₹ 600 crore for the FY 2024 – 25 under various heads. The Green Hydrogen production capacity envisaged by 2030 is likely to leverage over ₹8 lakh crore in total investments in the Green Hydrogen industry. This investment is estimated to create 6,00,000 jobs by 2030.

The aim of National Green Hydrogen Mission is to make India a global hub for the production, usage, and export of green hydrogen and to achieve its goal to become aatmanirbhar through clean energy.  

Recently, Japan signed agreements with India to import green hydrogen from India. 

As of 2024, the Green Hydrogen market size and growth has reportedly exceeded USD 6.49 billion, and it is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 31% from 2024 to 2032. By 2030, the global green hydrogen deployment is expected to reach 150 GW – approximately 63,750 tons per day. 

There is a widescale search on the question which is the first green hydrogen plant in India? The answer is Jorhat. India's first pure green hydrogen plant was commissioned in Jorhat. The green hydrogen plant was commissioned in 3 months at the Jorhat Pump Station. ​It is an initiative of Oil India Limited (OIL). Nevertheless, Adani Green Energy, is reported to be the top green hydrogen manufacturing company in India.