Net-Zero Commitments in India: The Role of High-Emission Sectors

India’s path toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 is both ambitious and essential. With its diverse industrial landscape, a major challenge lies in addressing high-emission sectors such as power, cement, metal, and mining, which contribute over 55% of India’s total emissions. However, recent insights reveal that the majority of Indian companies committing to science-based net-zero targets hail from low to medium-emission sectors like textiles, software, and pharmaceuticals.

This article delves into the role of high-emission industries in India’s net-zero journey and highlights opportunities for sustainable transformation.

The State of Net-Zero Commitments in India

As of now, 127 Indian companies have pledged to reduce their emissions under the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This global framework supports companies in setting emission-reduction targets aligned with climate science.

Interestingly, only 7% of these commitments come from high-emission sectors, while the rest are dominated by industries like IT, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, which have relatively lower carbon footprints.

Globally, the United Kingdom leads with the highest number of SBTi commitments, while India ranks sixth. Despite being a leading emitter, China has a lower share of companies pursuing SBTi-aligned goals, underscoring the importance of India’s efforts.

Challenges for High-Emission Sectors

The power, cement, and mining industries face unique challenges when transitioning to net-zero due to their reliance on resource-intensive processes. These industries require significant investments in renewable energy, carbon capture technologies, and energy efficiency measures to achieve meaningful reductions.

Examples of Progress in High-Emission Industries:

Power Sector: Only six Indian companies in this sector have adopted SBTi targets. Renewable energy players like Adani Energy Solutions have reduced emissions by 11% over six years through energy efficiency measures.

Cement Sector: Companies like ACC Ltd. have reduced emission intensity by 11% between 2019 and 2024 by adopting low-carbon production techniques and implementing green technologies.

Opportunities for Decarbonization

To accelerate net-zero commitments in high-emission industries, India must prioritize:

Adoption of Alternative Fuels: Biomass-based fuels like briquettes and pellets can replace traditional fossil fuels in industrial processes, significantly reducing emissions.

Investment in Renewable Energy: Expanding solar, wind, and hydropower projects will enable industries to transition from coal and natural gas.

Circular Economy Models: Waste-to-energy solutions, such as converting agricultural residues into biofuels, can offer sustainable energy alternatives while managing waste effectively.

Buyofuel’s Role in Supporting Sustainability

At Buyofuel, we empower industries to access sustainable energy solutions seamlessly. Our tech-enabled marketplace connects businesses with trusted suppliers of biomass briquettes, pellets, and other renewable energy sources.

Whether you belong to a high-emission sector looking to transition or a low-emission industry committed to greener operations, our platform offers end-to-end solutions, from sourcing to delivery.

Conclusion

India’s journey to net-zero requires collective efforts, especially from high-emission sectors. By embracing renewable energy, innovative technologies, and sustainable fuel alternatives, these industries can lead the way in achieving climate goals.

Buyofuel remains committed to being a partner in this transformation, helping industries reduce their carbon footprints and contribute to India’s sustainability movement.

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