Global Environmental Responsibility Demands Equitable Approach: Piyush Goyal

New Delhi, Dec 3 (KNN) In a critical address at the CII Partnership Summit, India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal challenged developed nations to acknowledge their substantial role in global environmental degradation and assume greater responsibility for environmental restoration.

Goyal emphatically argued that developed countries, which have historically benefited from low-cost energy production, must now bear a higher financial burden for environmental repair. 

He stressed that while global cooperation is essential, responsibilities should be allocated proportionally according to each nation's contribution to environmental damage.

Representing a perspective from the global south, the minister highlighted that developing countries should not be held accountable for environmental challenges primarily created by industrialised nations. 

He advocated for a principle of ‘common but differentiated responsibility’ in addressing sustainability challenges across international supply chains.

The summit, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, brought together trade ministers from multiple countries, including Italy, Israel, Bhutan, Bahrain, Algeria, Nepal, Senegal, South Africa, Myanmar, Qatar, and Cambodia.

Emphasising the need for systemic change, Goyal urged global leaders to critically examine current consumption patterns and transition towards a circular economy. 

He argued that sustainable development requires a conscious approach to reducing waste and minimising carbon footprints while maintaining economic progress.

The minister concluded by calling for enhanced cooperation among nations in the global south, particularly in establishing financial mechanisms to fund future sustainability initiatives. 

His remarks underscored the urgent need for a collaborative, equitable approach to addressing global environmental challenges.

(KNN Bureau)