Sugar plays an important role in most of our diets, which is why its production is spread over 120 countries. Data reports that there are over 60 million acres of land dedicated to the production of sugar globally! In 2022, India emerged as the largest producer of sugar in the world.
The sugar industry has helped farmers and the communities in their areas-both economically and socially. However, sugar production, as in many other industries, if not monitored carefully, can have adverse environmental impacts-related to air/water pollution, soil fertility, and further health risks. In fact, sugar mills and distilleries are one of India's 17 highest polluting industries.
It is the third industry, after the pulp/ paper and chemicals sector, to discharge maximum wastewater in India. This is because a huge amount of water is required throughout the production cycle; from the cultivation of sugarcane till the release of effluent from the mills. One kilogram of sugarcane needs 1500– 2000 litres of water to mature in the field. After harvesting, the same quantity of water is required to crush one tonne of sugarcane, releasing around 1000 litres of wastewater! Wastewater from sugar mills is actually not as toxic as that from other chemical-intensive companies. It can, however, pollute water bodies by affecting streams and groundwater ecosystems.
Water pollution takes place when there is an ‘induced change in water quality’. In most cases, wastewater contains a high concentration of solids, chlorides, nitrates, magnesium, calcium, and sulphates. The presence of these substances reduces oxygen in water bodies, making them unfit for human use and threatens aquatic life.
Empowering Tomorrow's Workforce The Rise of Vocational Education in India
The young population in India presents both opportunities and challenges, as the workforce needs practical skills that conventional education often lacks. Vocational education and training VET) is essential to provide job-specific expertise, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands. In this article, Amarpreet Kaur and Vidhi Rani highlight that vocational education and training serve as a cornerstone in India’s efforts to propel economic growth and empower its burgeoning workforce. Vocational education and training are a fundamental component of modern education systems, addressing a pressing need in society. The alignment of VET with the G20 objectives emphasizes its crucial role in inclusive growth, employment, and human capital development.
Eco-conscious and Sustainability-focused Brand Kheoni Paving the Way for a Greener Future
\"If you really, truly are into sustainability, you cannot operate in isolation. You need to be transparent.\" -Khayal Garg, Green Warrior
Water Sustainability Flexible approaches for managing and conserving water resources
In this article, Vijeta Thakur and Dr S K Bhardwaj discuss innovative technologies for water conservation along with urban water management solutions. They also explore policy and governance approaches regarding water conservation. Implementing Integrated Water Resource Management IWRM) helps coordinate the management of water resources across different sectors and stakeholders, balancing competing demands and ensuring sustainable use. Developing transparent and equitable water allocation systems, coupled with appropriate pricing mechanisms that reflect the true value of water, can incentivize conservation and efficient use while ensuring access for all.
Lady Banks' Rose A Lady's Shady Rose
The world may have been having an irate look towards China, cursing her for COVID-19 virus, assertions in South China Sea, and her alleged expansionist policies and so on. Whether she really deserves these insinuations may be a matter of academic discussions; there however, is no denying to the fact that the old Dragon has bestowed the world with things beautiful enough to capture anybody's attention
The Vanishing Bristled Grassbird
In this article, Dr Surya Prakash tells us about the bristled grassbird, known scientifically as Chaetornis striatus. Endemic to the Indian subcontinent, the bristled grassbird finds itself perilously perched on the brink of endangerment, classified as a‘Vulnerable Species’ by the IUCN since 2010. The relentless decline in its population can be attributed primarily to habitat loss. Keep reading to know more...
Embracing Climate Disclosure Governance India's Banking Sector's Resilient Step
With the introduction of the Disclosure Framework on Climate-related Financial Risks 2024)’ by RBI, it is quite apparent that the banking sector is continuously striving towards sustainability and climate sensitization. The new framework evolves the narrative, acknowledging the inevitability of climate change affecting these entities and, consequently, the broader financial stability. The framework not only acts as a means to inform the various stakeholders about climate-related issues but also to develop a narrative of financial resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges related to climate risks. Naman Mishra and Dr Megha Jain say that the framework is built upon four main pillars—Governance, Strategy, Risk Management, and Metrics Targets. Keep reading to know more...
India's Carbon Market On the Verge of Reality
In this article, Yukta Anand and Prof. Asheesh Pandey throw light on carbon market, which is soon going to be a reality for India.
Water Equation India and the Nordics
The Nordic countries, known for their commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection, offer invaluable knowledge and technologies to improve water management practices. From state-of-the-art water purification systems to sustainable irrigation techniques, Nordic expertise provides crucial tools to mitigate the effects of climate change on water resources. In this thought-provoking article, Biba Jasmine discusses that by utilizing the expertise and cutting-edge technologies from the Nordic region, Indian industries can enhance their water management systems, reduce pollution, and increase resource efficiency.
Charging towards Sustainability The Circular Revolution of EV Battery Recycling
Ankit Sharma is the Co-Founder & Director, Vidyuta Materials Pvt. Ltd., which stands at the forefront of innovation in the energy storage industry, pioneering the manufacturing of cutting-edge battery materials for the batteries used in energy storage systems (ESS), electric vehicles (EVS), mobiles, laptops, etc.
The Magic of Traditional Indian Barbeque Strengthening local economy and sustainability
Manu Shrivastava's article highlights the traditional dishes of South Gujarat and Maharashtra's Konkan region-ubadiyu, undhiyu, and popti.
