June 5 marks World Environment Day, a global initiative led by the United Nations to raise awareness and encourage action for the protection of our environment. This year’s theme, “Restore Our Earth,” emphasizes the importance of ecosystems restoration and sustainable living practices.
World Environment Day, first celebrated in 1974, has grown into a global platform for public outreach, with participation from over 150 countries. It serves as a reminder that every individual plays a crucial role in combating climate change and environmental degradation. The day is a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals to reflect on their environmental footprint and make positive changes.
In 2024, the focus is on rejuvenating our planet’s natural systems. Initiatives range from reforestation projects and wetland restoration to urban greening and sustainable farming practices. Restoring ecosystems not only helps in combating climate change but also enhances biodiversity, improves soil health, and supports local communities economically.
This World Environment Day, numerous events and activities are planned worldwide. Educational workshops, tree-planting drives, clean-up campaigns, and environmental fairs aim to engage people of all ages in meaningful actions. Social media campaigns are also playing a significant role, spreading awareness and encouraging global participation.
Everyone can contribute to this effort. Simple actions like reducing plastic use, conserving water, supporting renewable energy, and advocating for green policies make a significant impact. By working together, we can restore our Earth and ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.
World Environment Day reminds us that protecting our planet is a shared responsibility. Let’s embrace the opportunity to make a positive difference and commit to restoring our Earth, one action at a time.
Mr. Ashish Pradhan – President, Siegwerk Asia
As we celebrate this World Environment Day, the urgency for businesses to adopt green practices and clean energy sources has never been greater. India is the 3rd largest consumer of energy in the world, and as India Inc. continues to expand, it is crucial that growth is supported by sustainable models. Aligned with this vision is ‘Viksit Bharat 2047,’ an ambitious goal to transform India while integrating various aspects of growth bolstered by environmental sustainability. Achieving this vision requires a collective effort from all sectors, with businesses playing a pivotal role.
The Indian government’s initiatives, such as the National Solar Mission and incentives for clean energy, underscore a robust commitment to a greener future. By aligning with these national efforts, we can significantly contribute to global sustainability goals.
As a responsible player in the packaging industry, we recognize that sustainability is paramount for environmental development. By promoting eco-friendly practices and products, companies can contribute to minimizing environmental footprint and inspire positive change across the industry. It is our duty to lead by example, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and innovation that will drive our industry towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
Prem Kumar Vislawath – CEO and Co-Founder, Marut Drones
The pressing global issue of deforestation becomes even more alarming when we consider the statistics. From 1990 to 2016, our planet lost a staggering 1.3 million square kilometers of forest cover, devastatingly losing 15 billion trees every year. In response to this environmental crisis, Seedcopter, India’s first aerial seeding solution, is set to combat deforestation and expedite reforestation efforts. This innovative technology combines the power of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Science, and local community knowledge to address the challenges of large-scale afforestation, offering hope for our planet’s green future. With our Hara Bahara campaign, we aim to replant 1 billion trees by 2030, transforming 900 forests across India. Using our Seedcopter technology, we’ve already started seeding 10 acres in partnership with the UP government. The initiative restores landscapes but also empowers communities in 1,400 districts.
Radhika Choudary – Co-founder, Freyr Energy
As India transitions towards sustainable energy solutions, widespread rooftop solar adoption across the country is an important piece of the energy supply/demand mix. It will play a significant role in achieving ‘net-zero’ emissions by 2070. India successfully met a power demand as high as 250 GW last month. Renewable energy, including power generation from rooftop solar, helped meet this historically high energy demand. Consumers, especially industrial and commercial consumers, and homeowners are willing to make capital investments to contribute to the environment’s preservation. This adoption of rooftop solar by people in Tier 1-4 cities will go a long way in achieving environmental sustainability, economic security, and equitable power supply.
Satyendra Prasad Narala – Managing Director, Regency Ceramics
Adopting cool roof tiles is a simple yet powerful step towards sustainable living. By naturally insulating homes and reducing the reliance on heating and cooling systems, they contribute enormously to energy efficiency. Reduction of the “urban heat island effect” impacts heat stress levels positively. The construction sector bears a significant responsibility in creating sustainable alternatives, and the adoption of cool roof tiles is a prime example of this commitment. The sector must prioritize environmentally conscious practices. Fostering a built environment that supports and sustains our planet should be the solemn promise to our future generations.
As India transitions towards sustainable energy solutions, widespread rooftop solar adoption across the country is an important piece of the energy supply/demand mix. It will play a significant role in achieving ‘net-zero’ emissions by 2070. India successfully met a power demand as high as 250 GW last month. Renewable energy, including power generation from rooftop solar, helped meet this historically high energy demand. Consumers, especially industrial and commercial consumers, and homeowners are willing to make capital investments to contribute to the environment’s preservation. This adoption of rooftop solar by people in Tier 1-4 cities will go a long way in achieving environmental sustainability, economic security, and equitable power supply.
