Decarbonization : Need of the hour

Have you heard the term "#decarbonization " lately.

A lot of emphasis is given on decarbonization in climate related conferences and discussions. Also, it is one of the most prominent parameter for countries as well as organizations in their journey of reducing #carbonfootprint and complying with #esg

So, what is decarbonization ?

In simple terms, it is reduction of carbon from the atmosphere ideally to #netzero emissions in as a future target. It can be done through reducing the #greenhousegasemissions

How can it be done ?

We all have an idea on what should be done and some of us are taking serious steps. Not possible for all of us to create a big impact but as they say "Small steps often result in a big movement", here are some points to know and ponder upon:

1. #forests act as natural sink for carbon emissions. So, need of the hour is to increase their capacity to absorb carbon dioxide emissions by reducing #deforestation and increasing forest cover. Plant trees at home, neighborhood and offices is a good way to take a small step. Giving some of your time on weekends for some plantation drives organized by #NGOs is appreciated. Bring your spouse, kids and parents along to create a chain reaction.

2. #Power (electricity and heat generation) accounts for approx 30% of total carbon dioxide emissons. That's why it is said " Save electricity, save environment" . Create awareness at home, residential society and workplaces. Use efficient electricity devices.

3. #industries (Oil & Gas, Steel, Cement, Chemicals, Minerals and mining) are also major #ghgemissions emitters at around 30%. They are taking proactive steps in transitioning to cleaner and efficient alternatives (processes, power sources). Industries in general and companies in particular which are consciously transitioning themselves will reap benefits in future (Less dependence on #fossilfuels, more trust and investment by #esg conscious investors and government support)

4. #Transportation consisting of rail, road, marine, air is responsible for around 20% . Aha, for intracity mobility, bicycles are the best mode of transport (although not viable for long distances), still can be promoted. Using public transport , metro (available in many major Indian cities) is a good way. Here , organizations can play a major role by bringing a #hybridwork model. By the way, it has gained traction after #covid19 .

5. #agriculture : Major source of Methane and Nitrous Oxide pollution. Here we need some serious #innovation from #agritechnology companies. Also, increasing use of organic manure, insecticides, pesticides where ever possible is a good way. Agriculture uses a lot of water because farmers focus on #msp (minimum support price) of crops and end up growing water intensive crops in #waterstressed areas which in turn need more electricity and other inputs. #sustainableagriculture is needed to be promoted by supporting our farmers.

6. #solidwastemanagement and #wastewatermanagement has already become a huge issue when it comes to our urban and semi urban areas and slowly creeping to our villages. We are creating more dry and wet waste than ever and we love to waste water as it is free (we are paying a hidden price which we don't know yet). How can it be controlled? Can't be done overnight as habits can't be changed easily. But we can start small here as well by atleast segregating our waste as dry, wet, e-waste etcetera before giving it to municipal collectors. We can try to limit buying packaged food products and avoid wasting our food. Water, we all know, is to be used judiciouly. Isn't it ? So, it is in our hands. Water recharging, waste water treatment, educating our kids about the most precious commodity should be encouraged. All civil institutions such as Schools, Offices, Municipalities, RWAs , NGOs have to join hands and work.

It is heartening to see that among us, there are many people and companies who are doing amazing work at their scale. Mass adoption is what we need.

#esg #sustainability #climatechange