India Takes Lead in Hosting Fourth Environment and Climate Sustainability Meeting
Chennai, Tamil Nadu – The fourth Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) meeting is set to commence in India, focusing on global finance and climate issues. Ahead of the meeting, a press conference was held to provide updates on the progress made in the field of Environment and Climate Sustainability.
Key officials including Bhivash Ranjan – ADG (Forest), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India (MoEFCC), Richa Sharma, Associate Secretary, MoEFCC, Aisha Sinha, Joint Secretary, MEA, and Naresh Pal Gangwar, Associate Secretary, MoEFCC addressed the press at Chennai’s ITC Grand Chozha Hotel.
During the press conference, Richa Sharma highlighted that global finance issues concerning agriculture, anti-corruption, and education were discussed within the Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group. Climate sustainability was identified as a major concern, with the fourth working group meeting scheduled to begin the next day.
India, during its G20 Presidency, has placed a strong emphasis on topics such as Land Degradation, ecosystem restoration, biodiversity, water resources, Sustainable and Resilient Blue/Ocean-based Economy, and resource efficiency and circular economy.
In collaboration with Japan, India’s G20 Presidency will publish the fifth report on actions against marine plastic litter on July 28, 2028, under the G20 Framework for Marine Plastic Litter.
Climate change remains a cross-cutting element across all thematic priorities of the ECSWG.
The first G20 ECSWG meeting took place in Bengaluru and saw members express support for India’s G20 Presidency themes. Thematic discussions were initiated, and site visits to Bannerghatta National Park and Kalkere Arboretum were conducted.
The second meeting was held in Gandhinagar, where thematic presentations on water resource management and other priorities were delivered. Site visits to Adalaj Vav, Sabarmati Siphon, and Escape on Narmada Main Canal were also organized.
During the third meeting, a Mega Beach Clean-Up event saw the participation of 20 countries. The Ocean 20 Dialogue was organized to discuss Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy Governance, Participation, and the establishment of Blue Finance Mechanisms. ECSWG Outcome documents were also discussed.
The fourth G20 ECSWG meeting is taking place in Chennai, and it will be attended by representatives of the Tamil Nadu government, including the ministers for Industries and Finance.
In addition to the discussions, a projection and dance show will be organized, showcasing the unique culture and artistic heritage of Tamil Nadu. Over 50 dancers and performing artists from across the region will participate, alongside 3D Projections and a LASER Show.
India’s commitment to addressing global environmental and climate concerns demonstrates its dedication to sustainable development and taking effective steps to preserve our planet for future generations. The ongoing meetings and initiatives serve as a platform for cooperative efforts among nations to combat pressing environmental issues.
