Science for Sustainable Development: Green Technologies

"We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children."

These words remind us of our duty to protect and preserve our planet.

Today, I stand before you to discuss a subject that is shaping our future—Science for Sustainable Development and Green Technologies.

Science has always been a force for progress, but today, it holds the key to solving some of our greatest challenges—climate change, pollution, and resource depletion.

                             The term “Sustainable Development” is defined as the development that meets the needs of the present generation without excessive use or abuse of natural resources so that they can be preserved for the next generation. There are three aims of sustainable development; first, the “Economic” which will help to attain balanced growth, second, the “Environment”, to preserve the ecosystem, and third, “Society” which will guarantee equal access to resources to all human beings. The key principle of sustainable development is the integration of environmental, social, and economic concerns into all aspects of decision-making.

                              Green technologies, also known as clean or eco-friendly technologies, are innovations that reduce environmental impact. They aim to conserve energy, minimize waste, and use renewable resources efficiently.

From renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower to advanced solutions like electric vehicles, biodegradable plastics, and smart agriculture, science is providing us with the tools to build a greener future.

Recent developments highlight both the urgency and the collaborative efforts needed for sustainable development:

·         Rising Global Temperatures: Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea level rise, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, pose a major threat requiring urgent climate action. In 2024, two-thirds of the Earth's surface experienced record-breaking heat, with average monthly temperatures significantly higher than previous records. This alarming trend underscores the immediate need for effective green technologies to combat climate change.

·         Declining species populations and ecosystem degradation due to habitat destruction, overexploitation, and invasive species. 

·         Overconsumption of natural resources like water, minerals, and forests leading to scarcity and environmental damage

·         Unequal distribution of wealth and access to basic needs leading to social unrest and hindering sustainable development. 

·         High levels of consumerism and waste generation, demanding more efficient production and responsible consumption patterns. 

·         Large-scale clearing of forests for agriculture, logging, and development, impacting biodiversity and carbon sequestration 

·         Lack of access to clean water and reliable energy sources in many parts of the world, impacting health and economic development

Now let us discuss some of India's Initiatives in Green Technology

India has been proactive in adopting green technologies and promoting sustainable development:

·        Renewable Energy Expansion: India has set an ambitious target to install 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. As of now, the country stands third globally in renewable power, fourth in wind power, and fifth in solar power.

·        Achieving a significant milestone, India has electrified 100% of its villages, ensuring energy access to even the most remote areas.

·        Through the widespread adoption of energy-efficient appliances, India reduces approximately 38 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

·        The government has provided clean cooking fuel to 80 million poor households, reducing indoor air pollution and improving health outcomes.

·        In Goalpara, Assam, 183 km of roads were constructed using recycled plastic and geogrid technology, marking India's first green road initiative.

·        Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme aim to provide energy security to farmers by promoting the use of solar energy in agriculture.

While science has provided solutions, the responsibility lies with all of us. Governments, industries, and individuals must work together to adopt and promote green technologies. Investing in research, encouraging sustainable practices, and spreading awareness are crucial.

To conclude, science is not just about discovery; it is about responsibility.

As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said, “The Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's needs, but not every man's greed.” Let us embrace science, not just for advancement, but for sustainability—for a future where growth and the environment go hand in hand.

Let us act today, so that tomorrow is not too late.