Building-Consolidating-Accelerating
Under the Swedish Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), from January to June 2023, there have been notable efforts to go beyond the traditional bilateral framework and build relationships with external individuals and groups. By hosting events and working with experts in various fields, including health, environment, science, innovation, and international affairs, Sweden has been able to identify key principles and strategic opportunities for expanding business opportunities in India. In addition to working with Heads of State, EU member Governments, the host Government, and other diplomatic communities, Sweden's approach has provided leadership. Bilateral relations between Sweden and India are based on mutual respect and have a long tradition of over 100 years of Swedish economic presence. Here, TerraGreen editorial team is in conversation with H.E. Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden to India. In this interview, he talks about the importance of bilateral diplomacy and the continued growth of India-Sweden relations.
Sweden and India are engaged on many fronts—environmental, economic, and social. Picking up on the environmental theme, could you highlight key developments in this area and explain how your work with Indian companies is having a sustainable impact in an integrative way?
This story is from the August - September 2023 edition of TerraGreen.
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This story is from the August - September 2023 edition of TerraGreen.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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Enhancing Green Cover in HP
Not too long ago, a vast stretch of approximately ten acres of forest land in Parohi and Sangirthi of Bandladhar in the Bilaspur zone of Himachal Pradesh remained barren. The terrain was rocky, with minimal soil depth, making the idea of growing trees there seem implausible. However, today, this unproductive land is transforming into a verdant landscape, with 11,000 saplings of various tree species taking root. Sarita Brara informs that this transformation is attributed to the state government's Mukhya Mantri Van Vistaar Yojana (MMVVY), which aims to enhance green cover across thousands of hectares of barren forest land throughout the state. The MMVVY was officially introduced in 2023.
AI Writing, Illustration Emits Much Less Carbon than Humans
With the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) comes discussion of the technology's environmental impact. A new study has found that for the tasks of writing and illustrating, AI emits hundreds of times less carbon than humans performing the same tasks. That does not mean, however, that AI can or should replace human writers and illustrators, the study's authors argue.
Celebrating 'Solar Sisterhood' Power
On International Women's Day (March 8), Ashden highlighted the women who made renewable energy happen especially among the world's poorer communities where energy access posed significant challenges. The theme for this year's International Women's Day was 'Inspire Inclusion.
Redefining Development in Tune with Nature
A worldwide congress of individuals synonymous with practising ancient traditional values in the eastern part of Assam, in northeast India, has emerged as a major platform for converging diverse cultures, emphasizing the preservation of ancient traditions, ecological sustainability, and collaborative governance. Through this article, Nava Thakuria informs us that the 8th Triennial International Conference and Gathering of World Elders of Ancient Traditions also adopted the 'Dibrugarh Declaration, which unequivocally states that ancient wisdom profoundly views human beings as an integral part of the natural ecosystem, rather than as masters.
Surprising Role of Manganese In Soil Carbon Sequestration
A recent study reveals an unexpected link between manganese-a naturally occurring mineral-and increased carbon emissions from high-latitude boreal forests. The study uncovers how manganese increases carbon emissions from boreal forest soil, over time, challenging conventional understanding of the role of manganese in the carbon cycle.
India's Quest towards a Green Future With Green Initiatives and Climate Action
The interim budget of India for 2024-25 has placed significant emphasis on the green economy and investments aimed at combating climate change. These announcements are poised to reinforce India's prior endeavours in this direction. In this article, Sameeksha delves into concepts such as the green economy and climate action, highlighting that through its various initiatives, India has made significant progress towards the target of net zero emissions without compromising its economic development in less than a decade. These steps are expected to have a long-lasting impact, and the rapid growth of the country, coupled with green initiatives, will pave the way for a new era of prosperity.
Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme
Dr Krishna Kumari, Forestry Faculty, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay College of Horticulture and Forestry, Dr Rajender Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar along with Supriya Rai, a third-year student pursuing BSc in Forestry at the same university, engage in a discussion regarding the objectives and benefits of the IFWCS.
Decreasing Emissions with Sustainable Practices
In this article, Sanjay Gupta highlights the significant role of the construction sector in global greenhouse gas emissions. The construction industry accounts for 19 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions mainly result from energy consumption, material production, transportation, and the construction process itself. Nevertheless, there is optimism for the future, as technological advancements and increasing environmental awareness are driving the transition towards a more sustainable construction industry. Through the incorporation of innovative solutions, this sector has the potential to exert a strong influence on environmental consciousness. For the journey ahead, industry players should come together and unite in taking a collective responsibility against climate change to shape a world that is environmentally pure for generations to come.
Seeds of Contamination
Microplastic pollution in terrestrial environments poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health.
Green Budgeting - A Pioneering Initiative in Puducherry
Governments worldwide are recognizing the imperative to balance economic development with ecological responsibility. Article by Balaji details the pertinence of green budget. The text has been authenticated by the case study of the Government of Puducherry whereby the UT has made noteworthy efforts in the upward allocation of green funds to strengthen climate resilience.
