Empowering net-zero initiatives with innovation and commitment for a greener tomorrow
The RMI-Lodha Sustainability Conclave, a two-day event held in Mumbai, marked the anniversary of the Net Zero Urban Accelerator initiative. Jointly organised by real estate leader Lodha and the US-based Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), the initiative aims to steer India towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 while reshaping urban development.
Abhishek Lodha, the Managing Director and CEO at Macrotech Developers, emphasises the importance of sustainability for the future. He believes that with the proper focus and passion, India can achieve net-zero status in all critical natural resources. "Sustainability is not merely a buzzword; it is a necessity for the 21st century, and it is the responsibility of developers to play a proactive leadership role in responding to climate change and carving out a net-zero carbon future."
Amory Lovins, Co-founder and Chairman Emeritus at Rocky Mountain Institute points out that while numerous climate mitigation methods are available, deployment remains challenging. In India, traditional wisdom on building design for local climates is rich and can be combined with modern innovation to set global sustainability benchmarks. Efficient techniques reduce energy consumption and enhance comfort, amenities, and occupant well-being. The "Gateway to India's Dymaxion" report, released during the conclave, outlines the concept of dymaxion—achieving maximum output with minimal input. It addresses sustainable growth for the built environment, emphasising low energy use and high returns.
Elaborating on the thrust areas in the Net Accelerator initiative, Aun Abdullah, Head of ESG at Lodha, says, “Under the Net accelerator there are few focus areas, we have broken down the greenhouse gas emissions into its component parts and analysing how we can take initiative and decarbonise each piece and the collection of these pieces is the trajectory that a net zero future will have. The built environment plays a central role in decarbonizing India's economy."
The report highlights that building operations account for approximately one-third of India's total energy consumption, with an additional 10% of the nation's energy dedicated to manufacturing building materials and construction.
Breakout sessions brought together government representatives, experts, industry leaders, researchers, and the supply chain community on the second day of the conclave. These sessions discussed crucial topics such as building materials, cooling requirements, renewable energy, and green mobility. The aim was to chart a path toward a sustainable future and champion India's Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) ethos.
(The writer was in Mumbai at the invitation of Lodha.)