Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) is a key technology that reduces industrial carbon emissions by capturing CO₂ and either reusing it in industrial applications or storing it safely underground. It is particularly important for hard-to-abate sectors such as steel, cement, and power, where emissions cannot be eliminated through renewable energy alone. For India, CCUS supports the transition to a low-carbon economy while ensuring energy security and industrial growth. However, high costs, infrastructure gaps, and policy challenges limit its large-scale deployment. Strengthening regulatory frameworks, carbon markets, financial incentives, and technological innovation will be essential to make CCUS a viable tool for achieving India’s net-zero target by 2070.
Click to View MoreSacred groves are community-protected patches of natural vegetation preserved due to religious and cultural beliefs, representing one of India’s oldest traditions of conservation. Found across diverse ecological regions, these landscapes act as biodiversity refuges, support groundwater recharge, prevent soil erosion, and help regulate local microclimates. They also serve as ecological corridors and genetic reservoirs for rare and endemic species. However, sacred groves are increasingly threatened by declining cultural practices, land encroachment, infrastructure and renewable energy projects, and the lack of proper mapping and legal recognition. Strengthening community rights under the Forest Rights Act, recognising them as Community Reserves or OECMs, and integrating traditional knowledge into modern conservation frameworks can enhance their role in biodiversity protection and climate resilience.
Click to View MoreCarbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) is a key technology for reducing emissions from hard-to-abate sectors such as cement and steel, where carbon dioxide is released from core production processes. With budgetary support, indigenous research, and global cooperation, CCUS can help India balance industrial growth with climate commitments and move steadily towards its net-zero emissions target by 2070.
Click to View MoreThe Ramsar Convention is an international treaty adopted in 1971 for the conservation and wise use of wetlands, recognizing their importance for biodiversity, water security, climate regulation, and human livelihoods. Wetlands designated as Ramsar Sites receive global recognition for their ecological value, including support for migratory birds, flood control, groundwater recharge, and carbon storage. In India, the addition of new sites such as Patna Bird Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh and Chhari-Dhand Wetland in Gujarat reflects the country’s growing commitment to wetland conservation. These designations strengthen scientific management, international cooperation, and sustainable use while balancing ecological protection with community livelihoods.
Click to View MoreReducing methane emissions from paddy fields can generate additional income for farmers through carbon markets. By shifting from continuously flooded rice fields to practices such as Alternate Wetting and Drying, methane emissions can be significantly lowered without affecting yields while also saving water. The verified reductions are converted into carbon credits that companies purchase to offset their own emissions, enabling farmers to earn extra revenue. This approach links climate mitigation, water conservation and livelihood enhancement, though it also requires reliable measurement systems and fair benefit-sharing to ensure small farmers benefit equitably.
Click to View MoreNature-based Solutions involve using ecosystems such as forests, wetlands, mangroves, grasslands, rivers, and urban green spaces to address climate change, biodiversity loss, disasters, and livelihood challenges. They are increasingly recognised as central to India’s climate and development strategy because they provide carbon storage, flood control, water security, food security, and job creation while being cost-effective. However, challenges such as inadequate finance, policy gaps, land conflicts, weak monitoring, and risks of greenwashing remain. Global initiatives such as ENACT aim to accelerate and scale up Nature-based Solutions worldwide, helping countries integrate them into climate policies, mobilise funds, and promote community participation for a resilient and sustainable future.
Click to View MoreNational Energy Conservation Day, observed on 14 December, underscores the importance of efficient and responsible energy use in India’s development journey. Through initiatives such as CCTS, PAT, UJALA, PM Surya Ghar, energy-efficient building codes, and behavioural programmes like LiFE, India is reducing energy wastage, strengthening energy security, and advancing its clean-energy and climate goals.
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