1st Meeting of G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group Concludes in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: The first meeting of the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group concluded in Bengaluru on Saturday with a positive note to restore degraded land, promote a blue economy along with coastal sustainability, enhance biodiversity, prevent forest fire and marine littering and strengthen Circular Economy.

The Secretary of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Leena Nandan told media persons in Bengaluru that presentations were made by the member countries on the best practices to conserve the environment and technical aspects were deliberated upon.

A discussion was held on the road map to tap natural resources without harming the environment, and to protect the flora and fauna and biodiversity of our planet. The Secretary pointed out that the EPR framework of India to recycle waste was noted with appreciation by the member countries. 106 waste products are included in the framework, providing the brands and manufacturers with directions to manage extended producer responsibility.

This makes it mandatory for the companies to collect back and recycle used plastic, tyre, battery and other e-waste and solar products.  The LiFE initiative that focuses on behavioural changes in people towards the disposal of waste was also appreciated by the member countries.

The visit of delegates to Kalkere Arboretum and Bannerghatta biological park in Bengaluru provided insights into forest restoration models and eco-tourism models adopted in Karnataka. Secretary Leena Nandan informed that on 21st May, G20 delegates will participate in the sea beach cleaning drive at 13 locations in India. This is an effort to create awareness of the menace of marine littering.