The centre will help companies select strategies that promote sustainable production, consumption, and lifestyles
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) today announced setting up ‘Centre for Sustainability Leadership’ with Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) as its founding member. The Center's goal is to support the government's net-zero pledges, which are contained in the "Panchamrit" framework, by accelerating India Inc.'s climate action. The Centre focuses in particular on decarbonisation, green entrepreneurship, and nature-based solutions with the goal of institutionalising sustainability leadership among FICCI members.
By enabling the sustainability journey of corporate India, encompassing small and medium enterprises (SMEs), start-ups, and large corporations, it would act as a catalyst for change. It will try to popularise climate technology solutions by exhibiting developments made by Indian startups focused on sustainability. In keeping with the government's "Mission LiFE" ethos, the Centre will also promote circular economy and sustainable consumption. Recognising that "Lifestyle for Environment" must become a widespread movement, the Centre will assist businesses in choosing strategies that support sustainable production, consumption, and lifestyles.
The Center's objectives will be fulfilled by enhancing Corporate India's capacity through intense training programmes, knowledgeable workshops, and the provision of custom climate action solutions. The Centre will also establish a "Knowledge and Information Hub" showcasing cutting-edge climate technologies, new policies, and the world's best sustainability practices. Additionally, it will assist businesses in meeting their duties to report and disclose information on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) indicators, such as waste management, energy efficiency, and direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions.
On the occasion, Subhrakant Panda, President, FICCI, said, “The Centre will help realise social and environmental co-benefits, further strengthening FICCI’s commitment towards inclusiveness and building sustainable businesses. It will facilitate progress towards climate neutrality for industry, with a special focus on SMEs, the backbone of the Indian economy and an integral part of global value chains. Centre’s specially curated programmes will help businesses understand risks and opportunities associated with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) norms, and equip them with the necessary skill sets to monitor and improve their performance in this regard.”
Highlighting the business imperative, Sanjiv Mehta, CEO and Managing Director, HUL said, “The Centre for Sustainability Leadership will usher in transformative change by helping Indian businesses meet sustainability goals and achieve Net Zero in alignment with the government’s targets.”