Modi and Jetten Elevate India–Netherlands Ties with New Defence, Semiconductor, and Cybersecurity Roadmaps

India and the Netherlands have elevated their ties to a Strategic Partnership, with defence technology and climate sustainability emerging as the twin pillars of their 2026–2030 roadmap.

At the invitation of the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mr. Rob Jetten Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid an official visit to the Netherlands on 16-17 May 2026. This marked PM Modi’s second visit to Netherlands.

Defence & Technology Collaboration

• Defence Industrial Roadmap: Co‑development and co‑production of advanced defence equipment, systems, and components through technology transfer and joint ventures.
• Cybersecurity Cooperation: Enhanced collaboration in cyberspace, focusing on countering cyber threats, cybercrime, and building secure ICT environments.
• Semiconductor Partnership: Dutch Semicon Competence Centre linked with India’s Semiconductor Mission, supported by NXP, ASML, Tata, and CG Semi.
• Emerging Technologies: Joint research in AI, quantum computing, photonics, and space applications, with academic partnerships between IITs and Dutch universities.

Climate & Sustainability Partnerships

• Green Hydrogen Roadmap: Accelerates production, usage, and export of green hydrogen, leveraging India’s potential and Dutch renewable expertise.
• Circular Economy: Collaboration on industrial circularity, waste‑to‑value projects, and resilient urban systems.
• Renewable Energy Cooperation: Joint Working Group overseeing projects in solar, hydrogen, and energy storage.
• Water Management: Cooperation on Namami Gange, delta management, wastewater reuse, and a Centre of Excellence at IIT Delhi.

Key Highlights Table

Area	Initiatives	Impact
Defence	Industrial Roadmap, joint ventures, tech transfer	Strengthens military self‑reliance, EU‑India defence ties
Cybersecurity	Annual consultations, cyber school, LoI on cyberspace	Enhances resilience against cybercrime & threats
Semiconductors	ISM–Dutch Semicon Centre, IIT–Dutch university MoUs	Builds trusted supply chains, talent pipelines
Green Hydrogen	India–Netherlands roadmap	Accelerates clean energy transition
Circular Economy	Waste‑to‑value, RECEIC partnerships	Promotes sustainable urban systems
Water Management	Namami Gange, IIT Delhi Centre of Excellence	Advances climate‑resilient water solutions

Risks & Considerations

• Implementation Complexity: Defence collaboration requires harmonizing regulations and standards.
• Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: Semiconductor and critical minerals partnerships must address disruptions.
• Energy Transition Challenges: Scaling green hydrogen demands infrastructure investment and policy alignment.
• Climate Resilience: Water and circular economy projects hinge on sustained funding and adoption.

Compass Group India and Global Food Partners Drive Cage‑Free Egg Production and Farmer Training

Global Food Partners (GFP), a global consultancy helping food businesses achieve higher animal welfare standards in their supply chains, today announced it has supported Compass Group India, a leader in food services, to drive cage-free egg production and support local farmers in India.

According to the Release of Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2025 (2024–25) published by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, the country is the world’s second-largest producer of eggs, with total production estimated at 149.11 billion eggs in 2024–25, reflecting steady year-on-year growth. However, an Ernst & Young report titled Transitioning to Cage-Free: A Roadmap for Corporates in the Egg Supply Chain highlights that a significant share of this production still relies on conventional battery cage systems, underscoring both the urgency and the opportunity to transition towards higher-welfare egg production practices.

Due to limited cage-free supplies and regional market gaps, Compass Group India is using cage-free credits to offset a portion of its caged egg purchases. GFP administers the Impact Incentives programme; cage-free credits enable food businesses to directly support egg farmers making a sustainable transition to cage-free production—while helping to build and secure future supply.

Compass Group has initially purchased around 4,000 cage-free credits in India, with each credit offsetting the purchase of 1,000 caged eggs—a total of four million eggs. The funds for this credit purchase go directly to three farms in India—U and V Agro, Hensway India, and Happy Hens Farm—to expand their cage-free capacities and invest in their logistics networks.

Via Compass Group Foundation, Compass Group India and other partners have also launched a new cage-free and free-range training centre with GFP as technical partner. The training centre, located outside of Bangalore, will support local farmers in their transitions to cage-free systems, teach best practices in egg production and management, and help farmers achieve long-term sustainability and profitability in their industry.

“Compass Group India has shown enormous leadership and innovation in not only their own cage-free commitments, but also in driving substantial, foundational change in how eggs are produced and supplied throughout India,” said GFP CEO Elissa Lane. “Their commitment to responsible sourcing extends to the new training centre that meaningfully supports farmers and strengthens the nation’s food system.”

Compass Group has published a complete Animal Welfare Progress Report for 2026 with more details.

Other industry giants that have adopted Impact Incentives as part of their cage-free strategy include Kellanova, Best Western Hotels, Lagardère Travel Retail, and PizzaExpress. By sourcing cage-free eggs whenever possible, and using cage-free credits to address any supply-chain shortfalls, companies can report 100 percent compliance with cage-free mandates. GFP currently focuses on egg production throughout Asia, and has capabilities in Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Latin America.

About Compass Group India

Compass Group India is a subsidiary of Compass Group PLC, the world’s leading provider of contract food and support services. Compass Group India has been serving the Indian Workplace, Education and Healthcare market needs since 2008 through corporate cafeterias, global capability centres (GCCs), manufacturing-led demand, and technology-led services. Its sector-focused businesses give its clients access to unrivalled experience, global best practices, and market-leading innovations.

About Global Food Partners

Global Food Partners (GFP) is a Singapore-based consulting company dedicated to helping food and hospitality businesses achieve cage-free sourcing, and egg producers to implement and optimise cage-free production practices. GFP operates across Asia, including in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and India.

CSIR-CBRI Hands Over 13 Breakthrough Technologies to Industries and Start-ups

On National Technology Day 2026, CSIR-CBRI Roorkee transferred 13 breakthrough indigenous technologies to industries and start-ups, strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem and advancing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

CSIR‑CBRI (Central Building Research Institute), Roorkee, is India’s premier research institute dedicated to building science and technology, established in 1947 under CSIR. It develops innovative solutions for construction, housing, disaster mitigation, fire safety, and sustainable infrastructure.  

Event Overview

• Occasion: National Technology Day, May 11, 2026
• Organizer: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), New Delhi
• Focus: Technology transfers by CSIR-Central Building Research Institute (CSIR-CBRI), Roorkee
• Outcome: 13 indigenous technologies formally handed over to industries and start-ups

Speakers emphasized that these transfers highlight India’s growing research strength and its role in nation-building through technology-led growth and self-reliance.   

Key Technologies Transferred

Technology	Application Area	Impact
Fire-resistant transparent intumescent coating	Wood & substitutes	Enhances fire safety without compromising aesthetics
IPN coating technology	RCC structures	Protects reinforced concrete from corrosion & degradation
Low-carbon footprint brick manufacturing	Sustainable construction	Reduces emissions, supports eco-friendly building
Hybrid solar-assisted heat pump system	Energy efficiency	Cuts energy costs, promotes renewable integration
Prefabricated high-strength steel cord reinforcement	Wall protection	Improves resilience of infrastructure against stress

These innovations target fire safety, green construction, and energy-efficient infrastructure, aligning with India’s sustainability goals.   

Leadership Insights

• Prof. R. Pradeep Kumar (Director, CSIR-CBRI): Emphasized the significance of transferring indigenous technologies on National Technology Day.
• Dr. Ajay Chaurasia (Programme Coordinator, CSIR-CBRI): Highlighted industry-oriented dissemination to accelerate innovation-led development.
• Dr. N. Kalaiselvi (DG, CSIR & Secretary, DSIR): Stated that science and innovation are key drivers of India’s journey to becoming a developed nation.

Additional Highlights

• Release of CSIR Smart Village Initiative video showcasing rural development and sustainable technologies.
• Launch of Annual Report 2025–26 of CSIR-CBRI.
• Vote of thanks by Dr. S. K. Panigrahi, followed by the National Anthem.

Strategic Significance

• Nation Building: Strengthens India’s innovation ecosystem and supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
• Sustainability: Promotes eco-friendly construction and energy-efficient solutions.
• Industry Collaboration: Bridges research outputs with industrial applications.
• Global Positioning: Positions India as a hub for affordable, indigenous, and socially relevant technologies.

Apple Pledges ₹100 Crore to Power India’s Green Energy and Startup Revolution

Apple has announced a ₹100 crore investment in India to expand renewable energy and support green startups, partnering with CleanMax and WWF‑India. The initiative will add over 150 MW of clean energy capacity—enough to power 1.5 lakh households annually—and provide catalytic support to six early‑stage enterprises in waste management, regenerative agriculture, and circular economy solutions.

Key Highlights of Apple’s India Green Push

• Investment Size: ₹100 crore (initial phase).
• Renewable Energy Capacity: 150 MW, powering ~150,000 households annually.
• Partners:
  • CleanMax → Renewable energy developer for solar and wind projects.
  • WWF‑India → Recycling and plastic waste recovery initiatives.
  • Acumen → Supporting six early‑stage green startups.
• Focus Areas: Renewable energy, waste management, regenerative agriculture, circular economy, plastic pollution reduction.
• Global Goal: Apple aims to be carbon neutral across its entire footprint by 2030.
• Impact on India’s Clean Energy & Startup Ecosystem
• Boost to Renewable Infrastructure: Large‑scale solar and wind projects will strengthen India’s clean energy adoption, especially across Apple’s supply chain.
• Startup Support: Six early‑stage enterprises will receive grants, mentorship, and strategic guidance to scale sustainable solutions.
• Waste Management Expansion: WWF‑India’s collaboration with Saahas Zero Waste in Goa will now extend to Coimbatore and other regions, improving recycling traceability and reducing plastic leakage.
• Supply Chain Sustainability: Apple’s India partners (Foxconn, Tata Electronics) will benefit from increased renewable energy integration.

Quick Comparison of Apple’s Initiatives in India

Initiative	Partner	Scale/Impact	Focus Area
Renewable Energy Expansion	CleanMax	150 MW capacity, 1.5 lakh households	Solar & wind infrastructure
Green Startup Support	Acumen	6 startups	Waste mgmt, agriculture, circular economy
Plastic Waste Recovery	WWF‑India + Saahas Zero Waste	Expansion from Goa to Coimbatore	Recycling, pollution reduction

Risks & Challenges

• Execution Timeline: Large‑scale renewable projects often face delays due to land acquisition and regulatory approvals.
• Startup Viability: Early‑stage green startups may struggle with scalability and funding beyond Apple’s initial support.
• Supply Chain Integration: Ensuring suppliers adopt renewable energy consistently across India could be complex.

Why This Matters for India

• Strengthens Atmanirbhar Bharat by reducing import dependence in clean energy.
• Aligns with India’s 500 GW non‑fossil fuel target by 2030.
• Encourages green entrepreneurship, creating jobs and innovation in sustainability sectors.

At Apple, our commitment to the environment is also a driving force for innovation — across the company and around the world, said Sarah Chandler, Apple’s vice president of Environment and Supply Chain Innovation. We’re proud to expand our efforts to invest in India’s clean energy economy and protect the country’s precious natural resources

Tata Power, Keppel and Tata Realty Partner to Deliver AI‑Driven Cooling‑as‑a‑Service at Intellion Park, Chennai

• 12,100 TR Cooling-as-a-Service (CaaS) deployment to reduce facility energy consumption by over 20%
• AI- and ML-driven Operations Nerve Centre to enable real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and dynamic performance optimisation
• Collaboration brings together complementary expertise to establish CaaS as a scalable model for large and ultra-large commercial and industrial developments in India

Tata Power Trading Company Limited (TPTCL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Power, in collaboration with Keppel Limited’s Infrastructure Division (Keppel), has partnered with Infopark Properties Limited (IPL), a unit of Tata Realty and Infrastructure Limited (TRIL), to deploy a large-scale CaaS solution at Intellion Park in Chennai.

Intellion Park spans 25.27 acres, comprising both special economic zones (SEZs) and non-SEZs, and is strategically located in Taramani’s IT corridor. With a total installed capacity of 12,100 TR (tonnes of refrigeration), the project is scheduled to go live in October 2026 under a 15-year contract. Engineered with high-efficiency equipment, intelligent controls, and optimised lifecycle operations, the solution is expected to reduce the facility’s overall energy consumption by ~20%.

At the core of the solution is an AI- and ML-driven Operations Nerve Centre (ONC), patented by Keppel, which enables real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and dynamic performance optimisation to enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability across the facility.

Intellion Park sources green power from Tata Power, and the addition of CaaS further strengthens its integrated, low-carbon energy ecosystem. Over time, the partnership is expected to extend to the broader heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, including the low-side air-handling systems, unlocking additional efficiency gains, improving occupant comfort, and enabling a more holistic approach to energy optimisation.

Tata Power, along with consortium partner Keppel, provides innovative, reliable, and low-carbon Cooling-as-a-Service solutions which are scalable, premium, and future-ready. These grow with the clean energy needs, require no upfront investment, and integrate with emerging technologies to deliver seamless, sustainable, and cost-efficient cooling.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD, Tata Power, said: “Anchored in the India Cooling Action Plan, India’s commercial real estate sector is a fast-growing source of energy demand, driven by rising cooling needs. In this context, optimal cooling solutions are a critical lever, especially as the country continues to record peak power demand year after year. Tata Power is leveraging its expertise and innovative models such as Cooling-as-a-Service to deliver efficient, low-carbon cooling at scale. Its partnership with Keppel and TRIL at Intellion Park demonstrates how integrated solutions combining clean energy and advanced cooling can accelerate decarbonisation, enhance efficiency, and deliver long-term value. The company is well positioned to scale these capabilities further through Utilities-as-a-Service and Energy-as-a-Service offerings for real estate, data centres, GCCs, and other C&I customers.”

As TRIL advances its ambition to expand its portfolio to approximately 30 million sq. ft. over the next five years, with a focus on its net-zero goals by 2045, Tata Power and Keppel are well-positioned to support this journey through their complementary and integrated energy capabilities.

Mr. Sanjay Dutt, MD & CEO, Tata Realty and Infrastructure Limited, added: “This agreement marks a fundamental shift in how we design, operate, and sustain modern commercial assets - from ownership-led infrastructure to a performance-driven, service-led model where outcomes define success. By bringing together Tata Power's operational discipline, Keppel's global leadership in Cooling-as-a-Service, and Tata Realty's long-term asset stewardship, we are creating a platform that blends local execution with global technical excellence. This is not just a cooling contract - it is a blueprint for how forward-looking organizations collaborate to deliver better operational outcomes, superior user experience, and long-term environmental value.”

Beyond Intellion Park, Tata Power and Keppel have jointly secured additional Cooling-as-a-Service projects and are building on a robust pipeline of opportunities. These span commercial real estate and specialised industrial facilities including data centres and advanced manufacturing as well as district cooling systems for master-planned cities and large mixed-use developments such as airports.

Ms Cindy Lim, CEO of Keppel’s Infrastructure Division, said: “Cooling is no longer a standalone utility and is becoming core to how the built environment and commercial assets are designed, operated, and decarbonised. Through Cooling-as-a-Service, Keppel brings together engineering excellence and lifecycle operations to deliver efficient, reliable, and more sustainable cooling. Our proprietary AI- and ML-enabled Operations Nerve Centre will continuously optimise Intellion Park’s energy performance in real time, thus enhancing energy efficiency, system resilience, and cost outcomes.Together with Tata Power and Tata Realty, we are establishing a scalable model to deploy Cooling-as-a-Service at scale to meet rapidly growing demand, including across the Tata Group’s portfolio as it advances towards its net-zero ambitions.”

According to the International Energy Agency, India is expected to become the world’s largest consumer of space cooling by 2050. In this context, future-facing solutions such as Cooling-as-a-Service will play a critical role in supporting India’s energy transition and sustainability goals.

GVFL Leads ₹13.3 Crore Funding in Surat’s Canvaloop, Turning Farm Waste into Textiles

GVFL, Gujarat’s pioneer venture capital firm, has announced a lead investment of ₹10 crore in the Rs 13.3 crore fund flow into Canvaloop, the Surat-based innovating textile startup that converts agricultural waste into high-performance textile material. The remaining Rs 3.3 crore has been pumped in by Mumbai-based Rockstud Capital.

Canvaloop, founded in 2020 by Shreyans Kokra, addresses textile pollution by transforming crop residues into spinnable material, including HempLoop, FlaxLoop, BanLoop, NettleLoop, and PineLoop. Engineered for ‘adoption-first’ compatibility with existing mills, these materials ensure seamless sustainability.

The fresh capital of Rs 13.3 crore will drive growth by boosting production from 30 tonnes to 300 tonnes per month, assembling an elite team, and pioneering regenerative cellulose R&D. It will accelerate Canvaloop’s mission to transform the textile industry’s sustainability landscape, making eco-friendly materials mainstream and commercially viable.

GVFL Managing Director Mihir Joshi emphasized the strategic fit: "Canvaloop exemplifies the scalable innovation Gujarat startups are delivering in deep-tech sustainability. With its founder, Shreyans Kokra’s vision, we are excited to fuel their journey from a local waste-to-fiber pioneer to a global supply chain backbone. This investment aligns with GVFL’s commitment to high-impact ventures driving environmental and economic value.”

On the investment of Rs 3.3 crore, Abhishek Agarwal, Managing Partner at Rockstud Capital, said: “India’s manufacturing future will be shaped by founders rethinking materials and supply chains. Canvaloop’s ability to convert agricultural waste into textile-grade materials shows how sustainability and industrial innovation can go hand in hand. We think such solutions are vital for the shift to circular manufacturing in global supply chains.”

Canvaloop founder Shreyans Kokra said,

GVFL’s lead investment, along with the money from Rockstud Capital, supercharges our vision. It proves sustainable textile material can be practical and profitable.

According to Kokra, the textile and fashion industry’s path to net zero is increasingly being shaped by raw material choices, and there is a focus on cutting greenhouse-gas emissions from fiber and raw material production by 45% by 2030. “This is exactly where Canvaloop aligns with the focus. He stated, "We transform agricultural waste into textile-grade materials and yarns using proprietary low-impact technology. Our climate-friendly, closed-loop process eliminates the use of solvents, recycles water, and utilises bio-waste as a heat source."

Canvaloop has served 200+ clients, generated revenue, and validated commercial viability. It targets mass-premium/luxury segments with proprietary processing for consistent, cost-effective quality. Over the next 6-12 months, the startup aims for 10x production, new launches, and a path to global wardrobe presence in seven years.

Honeywell and IIT Bombay Establish CoE to Advance Sustainability Skills and Innovation in India

• Partnership to skill over 100,000 students in sustainability fields by 2030 through industry–academia collaboration

Honeywell (NASDAQ:HON) today announced an agreement with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) to establish a new Centre of Excellence at the Institute’s Powai campus that will help skill more than 100,000 students by 2030 in sustainability-related fields.

The IIT Bombay - Honeywell Centre of Excellence for Future Skills & Innovation (IITB-Honeywell CoE) will be created and fully funded by Honeywell Hometown Solutions India Foundation (HHSIF) – Honeywell’s philanthropic arm in India. The IITB-Honeywell CoE will offer advanced laboratory infrastructure, equipment procurement, curriculum design and research and innovation grants.

In its pilot phase over the next two months, the IITB-Honeywell CoE will focus on establishing core infrastructure, developing a specialized curriculum and training a first phase of 250 students. The IITB-Honeywell CoE will offer certificate-based programs featuring coursework and hands-on projects aligned with real-world sustainability challenges. It will benefit undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students from across the country. Following the pilot phase, subsequent phases are expected to engage nearly 20,000 students per year during the partnership, through the IITB-Honeywell CoE’s structured curriculum.

As India digitally transforms its economy and critical sectors such as energy, it faces a growing shortage of sustainability professionals with cross-disciplinary, technology-driven skills. According to the Economic Survey 2023-24[i], India aims to create 3.4 million jobs in the green sector by 2030. The renewable energy industry alone faces a deficit of 1.2 million skilled workers, a number that could swell to 1.7 million by 2027, according to TeamLease[ii]. The IITB-Honeywell CoE will address the growing demand for skilled sustainability professionals by combining classroom learning with applied research across five learning tracks: Sustainability Reporting, Sustainable Finance, Energy Security, Sustainability Infrastructure and Policy Advocacy.

“Skilling our workforce is central to building a future-ready and sustainable India. Our collaboration with IIT Bombay reinforces Honeywell’s commitment to developing high-quality talent across sustainability fields, as India accelerates growth through its AI-powered digital economy,” said Ashish Modi, President, India and Asia Pacific, Honeywell. “Honeywell’s new CoE aligns with this digital transformation and will equip students with the right industrial skills to support long-term economic growth with sustainability at the core.”

The IITB-Honeywell CoE’s course structure, applicable through 2030, requires each student to complete 40 hours of training across the five learning tracks. Classroom programming and applied research will be jointly delivered by the IIT Bombay faculty and industry specialists and supported by Honeywell employees through volunteer mentorship, technical guidance and career-readiness training.

“IIT Bombay has always emphasized translating academic excellence into societal impact,” said Prof. Shireesh B. Kedare, Director, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay. “The establishment of our Centre of Excellence with Honeywell strengthens that mission by giving students experiential learning beyond the classroom, enabling them to engage meaningfully with real-world sustainability challenges that are critical to India’s future.”

The partnership with IIT Bombay is a defining milestone under Honeywell India’s flagship ‘Saksham’ skilling initiative. Under Saksham, STEM students nationwide are trained in AI, cybersecurity and sustainability, while the IIT Bombay collaboration will focus specifically on sustainability-skilling through the IITB-Honeywell CoE.

Performance-Based Environmental Governance: Andhra Pradesh Introduces Recognition-Linked Incentives for GreenCo and IGBC Projects

The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board introduced a structured incentive framework to encourage industry participation in the GreenCo Rating System. Under this mechanism, units holding valid GreenCo ratings became eligible for a one-year extension of Consent to Operate (CTO), subject to the absence of reported noncompliance during the consent period. GreenCo-rated units were also accorded formal recognition through annual State-level awards, while products manufactured by such units were positioned to receive preference in State Government tendering processes, in line with applicable procurement policies. Additionally, rated companies were provided enhanced visibility through exclusive mentions on the official websites of APPCB and CII GreenCo, highlighting their sustainability achievements and environmental performance.

Under the APPCB–IGBC facilitation framework, building projects in Andhra Pradesh pursuing or achieving IGBC certification were made eligible for a range of incentives, including streamlined and fast-tracked processing of Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO), prioritized regulatory clearances to minimize procedural delays, and a one-year extension of CTO for eligible IGBC-certified Hotels, Hospitals (Red Category), and large Township/Area Development projects. In addition, certified projects received formal recognition and enhanced visibility through APPCB platforms, reinforcing a performance-linked regulatory approach that rewards sustainable building practices.

At the APPCB–CII Andhra Pradesh Conference on “Circular Economy & Green Industry: Strategies for Sustainable Growth and Resource Efficiency” held in Visakhapatnam, the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) announced a structured set of recognition-based incentives and regulatory facilitation measures to encourage industries to participate in the GreenCo Rating System. The initiative marked a strategic shift toward performance-driven environmental governance, aimed at rewarding industries that demonstrate measurable improvements in resource efficiency and sustainability.

Addressing the gathering, Dr P Krishnaiah, I.A.S (Retd.), Chairman, Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board, outlined the Board’s intent to differentiate and incentivize environmentally responsible industries. “APPCB is committed to moving beyond a compliance-only framework toward a performance-driven regulatory model. Industries that achieve GreenCo ratings and demonstrate measurable excellence in energy efficiency, water stewardship, waste reduction, and circular practices will receive recognition-based incentives and regulatory facilitation from the Board.” He further stated “Our objective is to create a positive reinforcement mechanism where environmental leadership is acknowledged and supported. By linking GreenCo performance with facilitative measures, we aim to encourage industries to voluntarily exceed statutory requirements and embed sustainability into core operations.”

The incentive framework announced by APPCB included regulatory facilitation for higher-rated GreenCo industries, enhanced visibility and formal recognition, and structured engagement mechanisms to promote best practice replication across industrial clusters. The measures were designed to reduce procedural uncertainties, reward transparent environmental performance, and foster healthy competition among industries.

Speaking on the broader sanitation and circularity agenda, Sri Pattabhi Ram, Chairman, Swachh Andhra Corporation, emphasized the importance of industrial participation in resource circularity. “Circular economy cannot be achieved without active industry participation. Incentivizing industries through credible rating systems such as GreenCo strengthens accountability and drives measurable impact in waste reduction, recycling, and material recovery. Recognition-linked facilitation sends a strong signal that sustainability leadership will be institutionally supported.” He added, “When industries see tangible regulatory benefits tied to environmental performance, sustainability transitions from being a cost centre to becoming a strategic advantage.”

Highlighting the technical robustness of the framework, Sri N Muthusezhiyan, Deputy Executive Director, CII Green Business Centre, noted that the GreenCo Rating System provided a comprehensive metrics-based pathway for industries to improve across critical sustainability parameters. “GreenCo enables industries to benchmark and enhance performance across energy productivity, renewable energy adoption, water efficiency, waste management, material conservation, and green supply chains. APPCB’s incentive-linked approach creates a powerful multiplier effect by aligning regulatory facilitation with measurable sustainability outcomes.” He further observed, “Andhra Pradesh has set an important precedent by formally recognizing environmental performance as a criterion for regulatory engagement. This approach will accelerate the adoption of structured sustainability frameworks and position the State as a leader in performance-based environmental governance.The announcement underscored Andhra Pradesh’s intent to integrate circular economy principles into mainstream industrial regulation. By embedding incentives within a credible sustainability rating framework, APPCB reinforced its commitment to promoting resource-efficient, responsible, and globally competitive industries across the State.

Amazon India Teams with IIT Roorkee to Curb Stubble Burning Through Crop-Waste Packaging

• Research collaboration develops strong, durable paper mailers from agricultural waste to reduce reliance on virgin wood pulp and address stubble-burning challenges

Amazon India today announced a collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee to develop innovative packaging materials from agricultural waste. This project aims to create non-wood paper technology that diverts agricultural waste from burning while reducing pressure on virgin wood pulp. These lightweight yet strong packaging materials offer recyclable and home-compostable alternatives to traditional wood pulp paper or plastic bags.

The research will focus on converting crop residues such as wheat straw and bagasse into high-quality pulp for paper mailers with performance comparable to conventional paper packaging. This helps reduce stubble burning in India by turning agricultural waste into valuable packaging material. It also reduces dependency on imported virgin wood pulp and could create additional income for farmers by providing a market for agricultural residues.

The collaboration with IIT Roorkee’s Department of Paper and Packaging Technology will begin with lab-scale development and testing over a 15-month period. Subject to successful performance tests, Amazon will provide support to progress to industrial trials, process validation, and commercial production by mid to late next year.

Abhinav Singh, Vice President of Operations at Amazon India said “At Amazon, we are building and managing India’s fastest, safest, and most reliable operations network, and we’re committed to making it more sustainable. As part of this effort, we’re partnering with IIT Roorkee to develop innovative packaging from crop residue. India generates nearly 500 million tons of this waste annually, and by repurposing it into packaging, we can support a more circular economy while reducing reliance on conventional materials."

Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director IIT Roorkee said, "Sustainability is no longer a choice, it is an urgent national priority. This collaboration between IIT Roorkee and Amazon is a step towards realizing India’s vision of a circular economy, aligned with government missions such as Swachh Bharat, Startup India, and the National Resource Efficiency Policy. By transforming agricultural residues into biodegradable packaging materials, we are addressing the twin challenges of stubble burning and a reliance on virgin materials in India, while creating scalable solutions that can benefit industries, farmers, and society at large. This initiative showcases how academic research and industry partnerships can accelerate India’s journey towards a more sustainable, and self-reliant future.”

Dr. Anurag Kulshreshtha from the INNOPAP Lab (Innovations in Paper and Packaging) at the Department of Paper and Packaging Technology at IIT Roorkee, Saharanpur Campus will be leading this research project.

As part of its ongoing efforts to reduce packaging, Amazon ships more than 50% of all customer orders in India either in their original packaging or with reduced packaging. The company ships customer orders in product packaging to more than 300 cities across the country. Since 2019, Amazon India has eliminated 100% of single-use plastic from its packaging across fulfillment centers.

Amazon India is committed to powering our operations more sustainably. The Climate Pledge is Amazon’s goal to reach net-zero carbon across our operations by 2040. We’ve worked fast and made impactful progress over a short period of time, including through investments in carbon-free energy, packaging innovations, electrification of our transport network, circularity improvements, and AI. Amazon has set a goal to return more water to communities in India than it uses in its direct operations by 2027.

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Amazon strives to be Earth’s Most Customer-Centric Company, Earth’s Best Employer, and Earth’s Safest Place to Work. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfilment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Career Choice, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, Alexa, Just Walk Out technology, Amazon Studios, and The Climate Pledge are some of the things pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit aboutamazon.in and follow @AmazonNews.

Tata Power, LSE Launch AI-Powered Energy Insights Lab to Drive India’s Clean Energy Transition

• The Energy Insights and Innovation Lab (EIIL) will leverage data, behavioural science, and AI for smarter power solutions.
• The MoU sets roadmap for demand-side management, and consumer-centric innovation

Tata Power, one of India’s largest vertically integrated power companies, has launched the Energy Insights & Innovation Lab (EIIL) today at its Mumbai based headquarters. This strategic research initiative is designed to harness cutting-edge research, data and experimentation to support India’s clean energy transition while improving the quality, reliability, and affordability of electricity services for consumers across India.

The EIIL is a collaboration with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), and the International Growth Centre (IGC), a global research centre based at LSE. The Lab aims to address pressing challenges in India’s power sector. These range from managing peak electricity demand to enabling deeper renewable energy integration in a way that is reliable, affordable, and aligned with India’s net-zero goals.

The Lab was inaugurated by Dr Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD, Tata Power; Prof. Robin Burgess , Professor of Economics and Director of IGC and EEE Research Program, LSE; Dr. Jonathan Leape, Executive Director, IGC in the august presence of HM Harjinder Kang, Trade Commissioner for South Asia and British Deputy High Commissioner for Western India. Also, present at the ceremony, Dr. Chetan Ghate, Professor, ISI and IGC ISGH.

The inaugural ceremony also marked the signing of an MoU between Tata Power, LSE and IGC to co-develop scalable solutions for the power sector through evidence-based approaches and global best practices.

System-level modelling + consumer-level insight

The Lab will leverage consumer behavioural science, data analytics, and energy systems modelling to test practical solutions at scale. It will focus on applied pilots that use smart meter and IoT data to improve demand-side management and grid resilience.

The initiative will explore how advanced analytics, and behavioural insights can help shift or smooth peak electricity demand in urban households, reducing stress on local networks while maintaining consumer comfort.

The partnership aims to expand the Lab into a full-scale innovation hub with enhanced funding, institutional partnerships, and a broader mandate - including support in tariff designing for regulatory approvals, consumer flexibility, distributed renewables, and energy equity.

India’s electricity demand is surging, driven by industrial growth, lifestyle requirements (cooling and heating requirements), digital infrastructure like data centres, electric mobility et al. In such a scenario, efficiency and system flexibility are increasingly critical to lower procurement costs and facilitate renewable energy integration. The EIIL is designed precisely for this moment. It brings together consumer behavioural science, data analytics, and systems modelling, to test real-world interventions, measure what works, and help utilities and governments turn those insights into scalable and sustainable energy solutions and strategies.

New UK–India research partnership - how it works

EIIL will have a dedicated analyst team co-located at Tata Power’s Mumbai headquarters, working closely with LSE and IGC researchers. The collaboration reflects a model of UK–India partnership where global academic expertise is integrated with on-the-ground industrial capability to solve shared development challenges. LSE and IGC bring international research expertise, while Tata Power contributes operational capabilities, a diverse customer base, and a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Tata Steel & constructsteel Launches Climate-Resilient Zero Energy Building Using Advanced Steel Technology

ZEB Odisha

• 1,836 sq. ft. next-generation facility, completed in 3.5 months
• Showcases India's pathway to sustainable, climate-resilient construction

Tata Steel, in partnership with constructsteel, the steel construction market-development programme of the World Steel Association, inaugurated a pioneering steel-based Zero Energy Building (ZEB) constructed using advanced Light-Gauge Steel Frame (LGSF) technology.

T V Narendran, CEO & Managing Director of Tata Steel, inaugurated the 1,836 sq. ft. facility in the presence of Dr Edwin Basson, Director General of the World Steel Association (worldsteel). Built in just 3.5 months, the facility represents a significant step in India’s move towards net-zero, energy-efficient, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

The steel-based zero energy building reflects the future of construction,” commented T V Narendran. Our partnership with constructsteel showcases how modern, energy-efficient, and low-carbon solutions can be replicated at scale across India and integrated into mainstream infrastructure.

ZEB Inauguration

The LGSF technology, where precisely manufactured steel sections are assembled like a frame, allows the building to achieve a tight envelope with minimal air leakage, better insulation, and reduced energy loss. Steel makes the structure lighter, faster to build, and highly durable, while its recyclability ensures lower long-term environmental impact.

Designed to produce as much energy as it consumes, the steel-based ZEB combines ultra-low operational energy demand with on-site renewable energy generation, achieving annual net-zero energy use. The building uses high-performance glazing, well-insulated walls & roof panels, and natural ventilation wherever possible. To generate clean power on-site, it uses rooftop solar panels and Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV). The building also includes rainwater harvesting and low-flow fixtures to optimise water consumption.

Adani Green Adopts TNFD Framework to Boost Sustainability and Biodiversity Goals

Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL) has formally announced that it is integrated the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) framework into its core sustainability strategy, marking a shift toward nature-positive renewable energy development.This move positions AGEL as one of the first Indian renewable companies to embed biodiversity and ecological risk management into enterprise-wide planning.

---

What this means

• TNFD framework: A global, science-led initiative that helps companies identify, assess, manage, and disclose nature-related risks and opportunities.
• AGEL’s adoption: Starting FY24, AGEL began company-wide assessments to map dependencies, impacts, risks, and opportunities across all operational sites (over 16.5 GW renewable portfolio across 12 states in India).
• Strategic shift: Moves beyond traditional ESG compliance toward a nature-positive model, ensuring ecological wellbeing is integrated with clean energy expansion.

---

Key commitments

• No net loss of biodiversity by 2030: AGEL has pledged to achieve this target, aligning with global conservation priorities.
• Tree plantation drive: Plans to plant 27.86 million trees as part of its ecological stewardship agenda.
• TNFD Adopters Group: AGEL joined even before formal adoption, signaling intent to embed nature-related insights into strategic planning.
• Leadership in renewables: Strengthens AGEL’s position among global renewable companies integrating biodiversity into decision-making.

---

Why it matters

• For investors: Enhances transparency on ecological risks, aligning with global disclosure standards.
• For India’s climate goals: Supports renewable energy expansion while safeguarding biodiversity.
• For communities: Ensures renewable projects consider local ecosystems, reducing conflict and enhancing sustainability.

---

Risks and challenges

• Implementation complexity: Mapping biodiversity impacts across 16.5 GW of assets is resource-intensive.
• Verification and accountability: Achieving “No Net Loss” requires robust monitoring and third-party validation.
• Balancing growth versus ecology: Rapid renewable expansion must avoid unintended ecological trade-offs.

---

Takeaway

Adani Green’s integration of TNFD guidance is not just compliance—it’s a strategic pivot toward nature-positive growth. By embedding biodiversity into its sustainability strategy, AGEL is signaling that renewable energy expansion must go hand-in-hand with ecological stewardship.

India Hosts World’s 1st Commercial Deployment of Coolbrook’s RotoDynamic Heater™ at Adani Cement Plant

• Adani Cement’s Boyareddypalli plant in Andhra Pradesh will be the first cement plant globally to commercially deploy Coolbrook’s RotoDynamic Heater™ (RDH™) technology in the industrial space.
• RDH™ system will be powered entirely by Adani Cement’s large-scale renewable energy portfolio, ensuring that the industrial heat generated is completely carbon emission free.
• This commercial deployment is expected to directly reduce ~60,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually with a potential to increase 10x in due course.
• Complements Adani Cement’s targets to increase AFR to 30% (upped from earlier target of 28%) while we achieve 60% green power share by FY28.

Adani Cement and Coolbrook announce their delivery agreement for the world’s first commercial deployment of the revolutionary RotoDynamic Heater™ (RDH™) technology to advance cement decarbonisation at the Boyareddypalli Integrated Cement Plant in Andhra Pradesh, India. This marks the first industrial scale deployment of Coolbrook’s RDH™ technology, advancing Adani Cement’s net-zero goals achievement by 2050 (validated by the SBTi) and Coolbrook’s goal of cutting 2.4 billion tonnes of annual CO₂ across heavy industry sectors globally.

This technology will decarbonise the calcination phase - the most fossil fuel-intensive stage of cement production. By providing clean heat to dry and enhance the heating value of alternative fuels, the technology enables a significantly higher substitution of fossil fuels with sustainable alternatives. This deployment is expected to directly reduce ~60,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually with a potential to increase 10x in due course, marking a major step toward decarbonising cement manufacturing.

Critically, the RDH™ system will be powered entirely by Adani Cement’s large-scale renewable energy portfolio, ensuring that the industrial heat generated is completely emission free. This deployment demonstrates the real-world feasibility of clean, electrified industrial heat powered entirely by renewables. This positions Adani Cement to spearhead India’s emergence as the world’s clean manufacturing cement hub.

Mr Vinod Bahety, CEO - Cement Business, Adani Group, said: “The world’s first commercial deployment of Coolbrook’s RotoDynamic Heater™ within our operations marks a pivotal moment in our decarbonisation journey. This is a major leap towards achieving our net-zero goals. By integrating such cutting-edge electrification solutions into our cement production, we are accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels, reducing emissions at scale, enhancing the utilisation of clean energy sources, and setting a new standard for low-carbon cement manufacturing. This ongoing partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to climate leadership and delivering long-term value through innovation and sustainability. This milestone underscores our legacy as pioneers and highlights our transformative actions towards becoming a global building materials solutions powerhouse. We are building a stronger eco-system of partners like Coolbrook along with our R&D investments.”

The project provides a strong and scalable use case for deep industrial decarbonisation with significant potential for replication. Coolbrook and Adani Cement have identified multiple follow-on opportunities for deploying RotoDynamic Technology across Adani Cement’s industrial operations and share an ambition to launch at least five additional projects within the next two years.

Going forward, RDH™ technology will play a pivotal role in decarbonising Adani Cement’s production, improve process efficiency, and accelerate the Company’s sustainability goals including improving AFR (alternative fuels and resource materials) usage towards 30% and increasing the share of green power to 60% by FY28. The first generation RDH™ will deliver hot gases at around 1000°C, which will facilitate drying of alternate fuels, making its utilisation greener and more efficient, representing a breakthrough in high-temperature electrification for cement production.

“Entering into the first industrial-scale project in the world with Adani Cement marks a transformative step for industrial electrification in one of the world’s most vital cement markets,” said Mr Joonas Rauramo, CEO of Coolbrook. “Our mission is to make RotoDynamic Technology a new industry standard for decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors. Together, we’re redefining how cement is produced - cleaner, more efficient, and ready for a net-zero future.”

Adani Cement’s broader sustainability leadership is reflected in it being among the four large-scale cement companies globally to have SBTi-validated net-zero targets and global collaborations including being the world’s first cement manufacturer to join the Alliance for Industry Decarbonisation (AFID), under IRENA.

Adani Cement is the building materials solutions business of the diversified Adani Group, comprising the iconic and most trusted cement brands Ambuja Cements and ACC. As the 9th largest cement producer globally, Adani Cement has ~107 MTPA of installed capacity and accounts for nearly 30% of the cement used in India’s housing and infrastructure projects. The Company offers a broad portfolio of building materials and solutions, ranging from all-purpose cement and concrete grades to specialty products designed for challenging applications. Backed by cutting-edge R&D centres and a commitment to sustainability, Adani Cement is the fourth large scale globally to have its net zero goals validated by the SBTi and has pioneered green and specialised concrete technologies and advanced additives to reduce the carbon footprint of construction. Adani Cement’s mission is to build a stronger nation by delivering quality, innovation, and reliability in construction materials, supported by extensive technical services and a customer-centric approach. 

About Coolbrook:

Hailed as the key technology for industrial decarbonisation globally, Coolbrook is a transformational technology and engineering company on a mission to decarbonise major industrial sectors like petrochemicals and chemicals, iron and steel, and cement. Coolbrook’s revolutionary rotating technology combines space science, turbomachinery and chemical engineering to replace the burning of fossil fuels across all major industrial sectors. The technology has two main applications: RotoDynamic Reactor™ (RDR™) to reach 100% CO2 free olefin production, and RotoDynamic Heater™ (RDH™) to provide carbon-free process heating to iron and steel, cement and chemicals production. Once implemented at scale, the RotoDynamic Technology has the potential to reach temperatures of 1700°C and cut 2.4 billion tonnes (30%) of annual CO2 emissions in heavy industry. For more information, please visit www.coolbrook.com

Safe Harbour Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to Ambuja Cements Limited and ACC Limited’s future operations, performance, and financial outlook, which are based on current assumptions and expectations. These statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Factors such as changes in market conditions, economic developments, regulatory requirements, industry dynamics, and unforeseen circumstances may impact the company’s performance. Ambuja Cements Limited and ACC Limited undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. For a detailed discussion of these risks, please refer to our filings with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and other relevant regulatory authorities.

How a Sustainability Business Model Can Unlock Long-term Profits

As businesses face increasing environmental challenges and shifting consumer expectations, sustainability business models are becoming a key factor in long-term success. Companies are realizing that sustainability isn't just about doing good for the planet; it can also unlock new opportunities for growth and increase profitability.

By focusing on energy efficiency, businesses can position themselves for long-term financial success. In this blog, we will read how adopting a sustainability business model can benefit companies and help them achieve lasting profitability.

What is a Sustainability Business Model?

A sustainability business model integrates environmental, social, and economic considerations into a company’s operations. It goes beyond just using green energy or recycling; it’s about creating a business strategy that benefits both the company and the world in the long run.

This model could include using renewable energy, reducing waste, and sourcing materials responsibly. By focusing on these factors, businesses can grow while also having a positive impact on the environment and society.

Why Sustainable Business Models Make Financial Sense

Embracing a sustainability business model is not just about environmental responsibility; it’s about making smarter decisions that support long-term profitability. Here’s why it makes financial sense:

Cost Savings: Implementing energy-efficient technologies, optimizing resource use, and reducing waste all contribute to lowering operational costs. These savings, once realized, can be reinvested into the business for further growth.

Regulatory Compliance: Governments are tightening environmental regulations, and businesses that adopt sustainability practices early are well-positioned to avoid penalties, comply with regulations, and remain competitive in a shifting landscape.

Stronger Brand Reputation: Consumers are usually drawn to brands that show they care about the planet. By prioritizing sustainability, businesses not only improve their reputation but also attract customers who value ethical and sustainable practices.

Attracting Investment: Investors are placing more value on businesses that show a commitment to sustainability. A sustainability business model makes companies more appealing to investors looking for long-term, responsible growth opportunities.

The Long-term Benefits of Sustainability

Adopting a sustainability business model isn’t just a short-term fix; it has long-term financial benefits:

Resilience: Sustainable businesses are more prepared for future challenges like resource shortages or price fluctuations in energy markets. They are more adaptable to the changes in global supply chains and regulations.

Innovation: Sustainability often drives innovation. Companies that focus on improving their environmental impact are more likely to find new ways to improve operations, develop new products, and create efficiencies that give them an edge over competitors.

Employee Engagement: Employees are also looking to work for companies that align with their values. A company that embraces sustainability is more likely to retain top talent, leading to improved productivity and a positive workplace culture.

How to Transition to a Sustainability Business Model

For businesses looking to adopt a sustainability business model, the transition can be done in several steps:

Assess Your Impact: Start by understanding your current environmental impact. Identify where you use the most energy, produce the most waste, or consume the most resources, and look for ways to reduce that footprint.

Engage Your Team: Sustainability requires buy-in from all employees. Encourage staff to contribute ideas, adopt sustainable practices in their work, and help foster a culture of sustainability across the organization.

Communicate Your Efforts: Transparency is key. Make sure your customers, investors, and other stakeholders know about the sustainability practices you are implementing. This helps in building trust and shows that you are serious about your commitment.

Partner with Experts: Collaborating with other businesses or experts who specialize in sustainability can help you implement the best solutions tailored to your needs. They can provide guidance, technology, and best practices to ensure your sustainability efforts are successful.

Unlocking Profitability with Sustainability

A sustainability business model is not just about being eco-friendly; it’s a smart strategy for ensuring long-term profitability. By reducing operational costs, improving efficiency, and building a strong brand reputation, companies can reap the financial rewards of sustainable practices. Furthermore, businesses that lead in sustainability create value for all stakeholders, from consumers to investors to employees.

To make this transition successful, it’s important to partner with trusted experts and sustainable technology providers. This partnership will help you implement effective solutions, stay up-to-date with industry trends, and ensure that your business is contributing to a sustainable and profitable future.

GPS Renewables and CSIR-NCL Launch NG SAF: An Indigenous Ethanol-to-SAF Technology

GPS Renewables, one of the leading global full-stack, renewable oil & gas companies offering technology and project solutions for climate-positive biofuel projects, has partnered with Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) to develop a first-of-a-kind commercial-scale production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) from ethanol. The same technology can be used to produce SAF from methanol as well.

As part of the partnership, GPS Renewables will invest in developing technology based on a patented catalyst from CSIR-NCL. The technology will enable one-step oligomerization of ethylene and other olefins – a process where small molecules are joined together to form larger molecules that emulate Aviation Turbine Fuel. Multiple players have demonstrated the Ethanol-to-Jet Fuel process at lab scale, but commercial-scale production has remained elusive.

With a license to the CSIR-NCL technology, GPS will engineer a commercial-scale plant under the project brand NG SAF. This partnership aims to demonstrate the first commercial-scale Ethanol-To-Jet plant. GPS Renewables holds the exclusive rights to commercialize this technology.

Currently, SAF is produced on a commercial scale primarily through the HEFA pathway (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids), which uses feedstocks like Used Cooking Oil (UCO) or animal fats. In India, large-scale HEFA production is not a feasible solution due to the lack of an organized UCO collection system and FSSAI restrictions on importing UCO. These feedstock challenges make it difficult to scale SAF production through the HEFA route in India, thereby highlighting the need for an alternative, home-grown technology that can boost SAF production. Ethanol from 2G biomass is expected to be a key product of the Indian agri-biomass ecosystem, and this will be the feedstock for the CSIR-NCL-GPS SAF production.

Commenting on the collaboration, Gomatam Ravi, CTO, GPS Renewables, said, “We are thrilled to partner with CSIR-NCL to build an indigenous and breakthrough SAF technology that can position India as a leader in SAF production. At GPS, we have always prioritized technology that can fast-track India’s transition to clean energy, and this collaboration reflects that commitment. While many have demonstrated the process at lab scale, none have succeeded in producing SAF from Ethanol at an industrial scale. With NG SAF, we aim to change that. We are confident that with our expertise in scaling cleantech solutions and CSIR-NCL’s scientific backing, we can deliver an indigenous and industrially viable SAF solution to the world.”

Dr. Ashish Lele, Director, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, said, “One of our core strengths at CSIR-NCL lies in working closely with industry leaders to transform disruptive ideas into commercially deployable solutions. Scientific research, when coupled with industry collaboration, can create promising solutions to address global challenges. This indigenous technology, named NG SAF, based on CSIR-NCL’s patented oligomerization process, can be a game-changer to decarbonize the aviation sector. GPS Renewables’ proven track record and extensive experience in clean fuels make them an ideal partner to take this innovation from the lab to the market.”

Mainak Chakraborty, Co-Founder and CEO, GPS Renewables, highlighted the importance of the team behind the program, saying “The technical advisory team to the NG SAF project is a thing of dreams, including Dr. Anjan Ray, (Former Director UOP and Former Director of Indian Institute of Petroleum), Dr. Arvind Lali, (Retired Professor from ICT Mumbai), Dr. Ashish Lele, (Director NCL), Gomatam Ravi, (Former Head of Shell Technology Center), Dr. Samir Chikkali (Humboldt Fellow and Faculty at NCL), and several others. GPSR has an engineering team of 120 people, adding up decades of experience from the likes of Petrofac, Petronas, Technip, Toyo, McDermott, Lauren USA, L&T, and other industry leaders, all of whom have come together to make NG SAF a reality.”

About GPSR (GPS Renewables) Group

Headquartered in Bengaluru, GPS Renewables (“GPSR”) is the world’s largest full-stack, renewable oil & gas company offering technology and project solutions for climate-positive biofuel projects. Starting from captive biogas plants, GPSR has scaled up to set up some of the world’s largest RNG plants. In 2022, GPS Renewables launched GPSR Arya Pvt Ltd (“ARYA”), a wholly-owned subsidiary, to commission BOO (Build-Own-Operate) projects, augmenting its climate impact ambitions.

GPSR has formed joint ventures with Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Oil India to build compressed biogas (CBG) plants across India. These plants will process agricultural and organic waste, reduce carbon emissions, and support the government’s SATAT initiative.

https://gpsrenewables.com/

About CSIR- NCL

National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune, established in 1950, is a constituent laboratory of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). CSIR-NCL is a science and knowledge-based research, development, and consulting organization. It is internationally known for its excellence in scientific research in chemistry and chemical engineering, as well as for its outstanding track record of industrial research involving partnerships with industry from concept to commercialization.

https://www.ncl-india.org/

Amwoodo Secures $4M Pre-Series A to Accelerate Plastic-Free Living with Bamboo Innovation

L-R  (Mr Sourav Dey, Director and Co-founder, Mr Agni Mitra,Founder and CEO and Mr Avijit Rajak, Co-Founder and Director of Finance)

Amwoodo, an innovator in bamboo-based sustainable solutions, announced that it has raised $4 million in Pre-Series A funding from a consortium of leading investors. This round was led by Rainmatter, with participation from Adventz Group, Thinkuvate, and Caspian. The investment marks a significant milestone in Amwoodo’s mission to accelerate the transition toward eco-conscious living by creating world-class alternatives to harmful disposable products.

Founded in 2019, Amwoodo has been at the forefront of replacing single-use plastics with bamboo-first products that combine sustainability with everyday convenience. The company has built strong B2B partnerships with leading names such as Himalaya Wellness Company, Bombay Shaving Company, and ITC Hotels, while also expanding into the Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) space through its marketplace Ecoconsious. With this new funding, the company will:

• Scale production capacity to meet growing domestic and global demand
• Enter the D2C market through its own marketplace, Ecoconsious, and launch other plastic-alternative brands under the House of Amwoodo
• Strengthen community engagement and expand livelihood opportunities in bamboo-growing regions

It is a shared commitment to rewriting the story of sustainability—where innovation replaces waste, communities thrive, and every product leaves the planet better than we found it. With this support, we are not just scaling a business; we are fueling a movement to make eco-conscious living the norm, not the exception. We’re leading from the ground up - listening, learning, and building with the community. Because change starts where the roots are.

— Mr. Agni Mitra, Founder & CEO, Amwoodo

Mr Agni Mitra, Founder and CEO

At Amwoodo, we have always believed that sustainability is not a trend—it’s a responsibility. This funding is a testament to the collective effort of our passionate team, the trust of our partners, and the unwavering support of our customers. Together, we are proving that businesses can drive both profit and purpose, and we are ready to take the next big leap toward making eco-conscious living the global standard.

— Mr. Subhrakanti Das, Chief of Staff, Amwoodo

Amwoodo’s growth is also supported by recognition as a Great Place to Work® (India) and accolades from various media houses, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in innovation and sustainability.

About Amwoodo

Amwoodo Eco Products Private Limited is India’s foremost innovator in sustainable bamboo-based solutions, creating eco-friendly alternatives to everyday essentials. Founded in 2019, Amwoodo is built on the belief that sustainability is not a trend but a responsibility. With a bamboo-first approach, the company offers a wide range of products—from premium personal care and oral care to hotel amenities, office stationery, and corporate gifts—designed to replace plastic in daily life. Backed by leading clients such as Himalaya Wellness Company, Bombay Shaving Company, and ITC Hotels, Amwoodo is redefining conscious consumption through innovation, ethical practices, and circular economy principles. Supported by $1 million in funding from Rainmatter (Zerodha) and recognized as a Great Place to Work®, Amwoodo continues to inspire a global shift toward eco-conscious living and a greener future.

1% Greener, 7% More Engaged: Landmark Study Quantifies ROI of Sustainable Workspaces in India

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) – Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), in collaboration with the Confederation of Danish Industry (DI), today launched the landmark research report "SUSTAINABLE WORKSPACE – Catalyst for Productivity and Profitability in Indian Businesses" at the CII Green Business Centre, Hyderabad.

The unique one-of-its-kind research study in the world with academic support from the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, reveals that sustainable workplaces are transformative for Indian businesses. The key findings of this research are that organizations that adopt Green Building Practices are more likely to have a thriving and engaged workforce, leading to increase in business performance for the organization. Moving far beyond environmental responsibility, the study demonstrates that green building strategies substantially enhance employee productivity, well-being, and organizational profitability.

The multi-year project presents the strongest evidence to date that adopting green solutions in India’s workplaces leads to marked improvements in employee thriving, engagement, and over all wellbeing outcomes. Through a rigorous, multi-phase approach involving inputs from 75 case study partners with over 1,100 occupant responses from 6 cities and analysis of more than 900 indoor environment quality data points, the study offers robust, data-driven proof that building sustainably delivers measurable value for both organizations and their people.

Key Findings

• A 1% increase in Green Index (a composite of indoor environment quality and comfort) lifts employee thriving by 3% and engagement by 2%, respectively, and enhances physical well-being by 3%.
• A 1% increase in Indoor Environment Quality leads to 7% increase in employee engagement and 2% increase in Thriving.
• Improved Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)—covering temperature, lighting, noise, humidity, and CO₂—boosts both psychological vitality and learning at work, driving organizational performance, innovation, and staff retention.
• The findings confirm that sustainable workspaces deliver far-reaching outcomes: higher employee satisfaction, well-being, and organizational profitability across varying climatic and cultural zones in India.

The report was unveiled by H.E. Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen, Ambassador of the Royal Danish Embassy to India; Shri R V Karnan IAS, Commissioner GHMC Government of Telangana; Mr. M Goutham Reddy, Vice Chairman, CII Telangana State Council; and Mr. C Shekar Reddy, National Vice Chairman, IGBC; Ms Bente Toftkær, Director, Global Talent & International Services, Danish Industry; Ar. Srinivas Murthy, Chairman, IGBC Hyderabad Chapter; and Mr. K S Venkatagiri, Executive Director, CII GBC in the presence of other dignitaries and sustainable industry champions.

Speaking at the launch, H.E. Mr. Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen, Ambassador of the Royal Danish Embassy to India, said "Denmark is delighted to partner with India in advancing the agenda of sustainable and people-centric development. Over the years, our collaboration has demonstrated how shared knowledge, technology, and innovation can deliver solutions that benefit both people and the planet. The launch of the DI and CII-IGBC report on Sustainable Workspaces is yet another milestone in this journey. It reinforces the importance of designing workplaces that reduce environmental impact while enhance well-being, creativity, and productivity. Together, Denmark and India can accelerate the green transition and create resilient urban futures that serve as a model for the world."

Shri R V Karnan IAS, Commissioner GHMC Government of Telangana, while addressing the gathering said, "Telangana is proud to lead the sustainable transformation of India’s built environment, with Hyderabad emerging as one of the country’s green building hubs. Our state has consistently championed IGBC-certified projects across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors, setting benchmarks in energy efficiency and eco-friendly urban development. Collaborating with national and international partners, we reaffirm our commitment to harnessing the power of green workspaces to enhance quality of life, drive innovation, and build resilient urban futures. This report provides compelling evidence that sustainable workplaces are not only vital for citizen well-being but also a strategic investment in Telangana’s economic growth and global competitiveness."

Mr. C Shekar Reddy, National Vice Chairman, IGBC, stated, "As IGBC celebrates 25 years of championing the green building movement in the country, the launch of the DI and CII-IGBC research report on Sustainable Workspaces – Catalysts for Productivity and Profitability in Indian Businesses marks an important milestone. This study reinforces the need to move beyond traditional metrics like energy and water savings to embrace workplaces that prioritize people’s well-being, creativity, and productivity while ensuring environmental stewardship. Together, we can transform our work environments into powerful catalysts for both sustainability and business growth, shaping a greener and healthier future for India."

The report provides actionable guidance for business leaders, Developers, policymakers, urban planners, architects, ESG investors and industry associations. It urges all stakeholders to:

• Prioritize IEQ and comfort in both new and existing workplaces.
• Integrate measurable green metrics in design and operations.
• Assess workspaces with evidence-based tools to drive employee engagement and organizational success.

Trane Technologies Launches BrainBox AI Lab to Drive Sustainable HVAC and Building Intelligence

Trane Technologies (NYSE:TT), a global climate innovator, announced the launch of the BrainBox AI Lab – igniting a new era in energy optimization for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions in the built environment and refrigerated transport.

The Trane Technologies BrainBox AI Lab is dedicated to advancing technologies designed to support more intelligent, efficient, and sustainable building operations across the industry. With the infusion of AI through Trane Technologies’ products, solutions, and operations, the organization is poised to lead the market transition towards fully digitized building operations in alignment with its sustainability principles.

“Through the BrainBox AI Lab, we are bringing together world-class talent and industry-leading technology to shape the next generation of climate innovation,” said Riaz Raihan, Chief Digital Officer, Trane Technologies. “Demand continues to grow for solutions that reduce energy, emissions and operational costs. This premier lab is an important element in our strategy to remain at the forefront of digital and AI solutions that create positive impact for our customers and the world.”

The new BrainBox AI Lab serves as a hub for rigorous research, collaboration, and real-world testing to set new standards within the industry and beyond. This network of AI experts within Trane Technologies will continue to advance autonomous control systems, predictive models, and algorithms aimed at reducing emissions through smarter energy use. The BrainBox AI Lab will also focus on evolving fields of study, including agentic AI and the application of physics-informed neural networks, enabling total digital transformation for the built environment.

“AI is accelerating at a pace few could have imagined, unlocking extraordinary opportunities to solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges,” said Jean-Simon Venne, President at BrainBox AI and Head of the AI Lab. “Our responsibility is not just to innovate quickly, but to also ensure that it is being done wisely and sustainably. The BrainBox AI Lab will define what is next for AI within the industry.”

Leveraging a multidisciplinary team of technical experts including software engineers, data scientists, AI researchers, machine learning developers and AI engineers, this AI Lab will be guided by the following principles:Product Creation: Turning breakthrough ideas and discoveries into ready-to-use products and applications – moving past the concept phase and into real-world impact.

• Research & Development: Teaming up with world-class researchers and universities to push scientific discovery and shape the future of AI in energy management.
• Ethics & Guardrails: Embedding ethical and responsible AI principles and safeguards into how we design, develop, and deploy our solutions.
• Sustainability: Creating AI technologies that support energy optimization and reduction of global carbon emissions in support of Trane Technologies’ ambitious 2030 Sustainability Commitments.

Trane Technologies acquired BrainBox AI in January 2025 amid fast-growing demand for sustainable, autonomous building solutions, bringing industry-leading autonomous HVAC controls and generative AI building technologies to more customers. The companies previously teamed up for more than two years, combining BrainBox AI’s leading artificial intelligence technology with Trane Technologies’ advanced building management and digital capabilities.

For more information, visit Trane Technologies BrainBox AI Lab.