LUCKNOW : Researchers from Indian Institute of Management Lucknow and Ahmedabad University have conducted a study outlining the necessary steps for India’s industrial sector to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
The study has been published in the prestigious journal Applied Energy and emphasises the need for transformative changes in the industrial domain of India to align with the nation’s net-zero emissions target. The study presents a comprehensive roadmap focusing on energy efficiency, material recycling, and investments in clean technologies such as carbon capture and hydrogen.
India’s industrial sector plays a critical role in the economy, contributing significantly to employment and output. However, it is also a major emitter of greenhouse gases, accounting for 22% of the country’s total emissions. While initiatives like “Make in India” are driving rapid growth, the sector’s reliance on fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas, presents a significant challenge for decarbonization.
The research focused on key industries such as steel, cement, aluminium, chemicals, and textiles. It used expert insights and energy-economy models to develop four possible future scenarios –
- Business-As-Usual
- Development First
- Carbon Neutral
- Synchronous
Each scenario explores how varying levels of policies and technologies could influence industrial growth, environmental impact, and the required investments.
Speaking about the research, Prof. Dipti Gupta, Assistant Professor, Business Sustainability, IIM Lucknow, said, “The study is an attempt to understand what the transition looks like in the coming decades as India approaches its target of achieving net zero emissions by 2070. As the Indian economy grows rapidly in future, the speed and scale of India’s industry sector transition will be unprecedented. Developing the manufacturing sector while minimising negative environmental and societal impacts will be the key elements of a low carbon pathway for India. Decarbonizing industry sector will require rapid technology development, international finance for scaling up key technologies, innovative business models and standardized emission reporting.”
The researchers found that with the right policies and the rapid adoption of advanced technologies, India could reduce industrial emissions by 63% by 2050. The “SYNCH” scenario shows that strong action to reduce pollution is possible, but it would require an investment of approximately $1.7 trillion by 2050. This funding would be directed toward cleaner electricity, enhanced material recycling systems, and technologies that capture and store carbon.
The study identifies three key actions: First, improving energy efficiency should be the immediate priority, as it is the most cost-effective and fastest way to reduce emissions. Second, improving material efficiency requires a comprehensive approach, including regulations that require businesses to disclose their pollution and resource use. Third, the government should strengthen programs like emission trading and establish clear rules for carbon tracking and reporting to help businesses adopt sustainable practices.
It also stresses that India will require financial support and technology transfers from other countries to make this transition. Emerging technologies like hydrogen-based systems and carbon capture are still under development, but must be expanded to support sustainable industrial growth. Success will depend on significant investments, faster technology adoption, and policies that balance economic progress with environmental protection.
