The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has announced setting up of the ‘Centre for Sustainability Leadership' with Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) as its Founding Member. The ambition of the Centre is to help accelerate India Inc.'s climate action in line with Government's net-zero commitments embodied in the ‘Panchamrit' framework. The centre aims to institutionalise sustainability leadership across FICCI members focusing particularly on decarbonisation, green entrepreneurship, and nature-based solutions.
The centre will serve as a catalyst for change, by facilitating sustainability journey of corporate India, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), start-ups and large corporates. It will endeavour to mainstream climate technology solutions by showcasing innovations by sustainability startups in India. The centre will also work towards adoption of sustainable consumption and circular economy in line with Government's ‘Mission LiFE' mantra. Acknowledging PM Narendra Modi's vision that ‘Lifestyle for Environment' needs to become a mass movement, the centre will help companies adopt pathways that promote sustainable consumption, sustainable production, and a sustainable lifestyle.
The centre's goals will be achieved by building capacity of Corporate India through intensive training programs, expert workshops and offering bespoke solutions for climate action. In addition, the centre will also create a ‘Knowledge and Information Hub' featuring global best sustainability practices, emerging policies, and innovative climate technologies. It will further support companies in complying with enhanced reporting and disclosure obligations on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) indicators including direct / indirect greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency, water and waste management, etc.
Subhrakant Panda, President, FICCI said, "The centre will help realise social and environmental co-benefits, further strengthening FICCI's commitment towards inclusiveness and building sustainable businesses. It will facilitate progress towards climate neutrality for industry with special focus on SMEs, the backbone of Indian economy and integral part of global value chains. Centre's specially curated programs will help businesses understand risks and opportunities associated with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) norms, and equip them with necessary skillsets to monitor and improve their performance in this regard."
Sanjiv Mehta, CEO and Managing Director, HUL, highlighted, "The Centre for Sustainability Leadership will usher in transformative change by helping Indian businesses to meet sustainability goals and achieve Net Zero in alignment with the Government's targets. As a Company, HUL has always strived to be people and planet positive and firmly believes that responsible business is the only way forward.
