Driving Sustainable Progress: Insights from PHDCCI’s Global Sustainability Conclave on Collaborative Solutions for a Greener Future

In a bid to foster collaborative solutions for environmental advocacy and promote sustainability, PHDCCI organized the Global Sustainability Conclave on March 20, 2024, at Hotel Le-Meridien, New Delhi.

During the event, Mr. Ramesh Kumar Kuruppath, Chief of Unit (Programme & Projects Implementation Cluster) at the International Solar Alliance (ISA), emphasized the crucial role of creating an enabling ecosystem for scaling solar energy. He highlighted the importance of policy regulations in removing barriers to private capital deployment, crucial for sustainable growth. Mr. Kuruppath also stressed the significance of establishing guarantee mechanisms to boost investor confidence in solar projects. Reflecting on the evolving landscape of global sustainability since 2015, he underlined the complex nature of the discourse amidst geopolitical tensions and pandemics, emphasizing the need for a revised approach.

Mr. Kuruppath further outlined the pivotal role of solar energy in driving the transition towards sustainability, emphasizing partnership as the key driver for progress. He delineated three essential parameters: energy access, energy security, especially in the face of geopolitical challenges, and the transition to low-carbon and renewable energy sources.

Speaking on the genesis and evolution of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Mr. Kuruppath elucidated its inception during COP21 and its subsequent expansion to include 119 countries. He emphasized the diverse perspectives on sustainability across nations, stressing the importance of global partnerships in addressing sustainability challenges.

Mr. Keshav Singhal, Head of Sustainability at Noida International Airport, provided insights into the sustainable development initiatives at Noida International Airport (NIA). He highlighted NIA’s vision of blending Swiss efficiency with Indian hospitality to become a leading airport in terms of customer service, efficiency, and minimal environmental impact.

Mr. Matthias Ong, Head of Disclosure and Environmental Data (APAC) at CDP, underscored significant milestones in climate action and CDP’s role in driving environmental disclosure over the past two decades. He advocated for increased transparency and informed decision-making to accelerate sustainability efforts.

Mr. Shivam Batham, Senior AVP at Invest India, emphasized the importance of companies venturing into the energy storage domain to enhance the efficiency of energy transition. He highlighted investment opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, agriculture, and electric vehicles, stressing the need for profitable incentives and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to strengthen sustainable investments.

Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, Executive Director of PHDCCI, highlighted the shifting perception of sustainability and India’s role in balancing developmental needs with environmental goals. He urged Indians to contribute to sustainability efforts and leverage the nation’s potential to become a global advocate for sustainability.

Additionally, contributions from Ms. Charlotte Morton (OBE), Chief Executive of the World Biogas Association; Mr. M.K. Tiwari, Sustainability Head at GAIL India Limited; and Mr. Samit Mitra, Managing Director, Country Delivery, GEAPP – India, enriched the dialogue on sustainable solutions and environmental advocacy.