| Summary The panel discussion on Lifestyles, Energy Security and Climate had a unanimous view on the need for lifestyle changes in mitigating climate change and enhancing energy security. The speakers shared their views on the need to synergize awareness creation, technological innovations, use of appropriate financial instruments, innovative market pricing and sound policy making. It emphasized on educating the youth and consumers about the ethical basis and equity of consumption, and involving them in the decision-making in initiating change in lifestyles. The panellists underscored the need for economic incentives to promote greener lifestyles. They sought active role of governments, businesses, industry, civil society, media and educational institutions in the dissemination of scientific evidence and recommendations. The panel discussed Japan’s example in moving towards a low carbon economy through change in housing design, clothing, day-to-day choices in transport and technology use. The panel comprising Dr R K Pachauri, Dr Leena Srivastava, Dr Ajay Mathur, Dr David Jhirad, Dr Prodipto Ghosh, Mr H Mori, Ms Urvashi Sibal and Mr Uday Khemka sought the decoupling of carbon growth with economic growth. The event was attended by political and business leaders, educationists, academicians, research scholars, NGO representatives and students. Background Energy security and climate change are serious national concerns for India. Countries are now trying to reduce energy demand to mitigate climate change risks through options targeted at various sectors of the economy, for instance increased energy efficiency and conservation measures in industry and service sectors, using alternative fuels in the transport sector, reducing electricity usage for irrigation purposes, etc. Along with these issues, countries are paying attention to consumption at the household level, too. Individuals at the micro level can play a significant role by reducing their energy demand by moderating their lifestyle. “Changes in lifestyles and consumption patterns that emphasize resource conservation can contribute to developing a low-carbon economy that is both equitable and sustainable,” stated the summary of the report for policy makers that was approved by the ninth session of the IPCC Working Group III Objective The primary objective of this workshop was to address the twin concerns of energy security and climate change, as also to develop a responsible consumer behaviour though lifestyle changes targeted at energy saving and reduced carbon emissions. About the Nand & Jeet Khemka Foundation The Nand & Jeet Khemka Foundation is an Indian public charitable trust, whose mission is to develop and promote institutions and initiatives that make a substantial impact on poverty, deprivation and disempowerment of the human and natural environment through an approach, which is long term, strategic and leveraged. The foundation believes change can only be effected through multi-stakeholder collaboration both within India and internationally. Therefore, it is deeply committed to partnership and collaborative approaches. The foundation seeks not so much to be an implementing or programmatic agency, as to build key pillars of strategic philanthropy and development infrastructure in the country. |
