The CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (Neeri) has organized a one-day brainstorming session, “Energy Dialogues: Clean. Viable. Inclusive,” to address the escalating climate crisis and soaring energy demands. The event, which took place on Tuesday, brought together leading scientists and experts from premier institutions, including IITs, NITs, and CSIR institutions. The goal of the session was to draft a white paper on energy policy for submission to the government, with a focus on evidence-based policymaking.
The workshop, led by Neeri director Dr. S Venkata Mohan, a renowned expert in waste remediation and circular bioeconomy, centered on three pillars: clean, viable, and inclusive energy development. As India strives to achieve its net-zero goals, the dialogue explored actionable pathways in clean energy generation, emission control, green skilling, and carbon finance. Dr. Mohan emphasized Neeri’s pioneering role in advancing research on microbial electrochemical systems, biorefineries, and waste valorisation, stating that the institute is driving a cleaner, smarter, and inclusive energy ecosystem.
The workshop also addressed critical challenges in transitioning to sustainable energy, including the need to improve biomass-burning technologies to reduce air pollution and health issues. Carbon finance mechanisms, such as carbon credits, were discussed as a key to supporting sustainable biomass projects while meeting environmental standards. The Energy Dialogues also dealt with the phasing out of fossil fuel plants, emphasizing the need for careful planning to avoid economic and environmental fallout.
The event highlighted the importance of retraining workers for renewable energy jobs and implementing robust emission control strategies for energy production and consumption. Technologies such as green hydrogen, cleaner transportation, and carbon capture, paired with improved waste management, were identified as essential for reducing pollution and aligning with net-zero targets. By uniting experts, policymakers, and stakeholders, Neeri’s initiative aims to accelerate India’s transition to a sustainable, inclusive energy future, ensuring environmental sustainability and social equity. The white paper on energy policy, to be submitted to the government, will provide a vital roadmap for the country’s energy sector.