The 6th Ministerial Meeting held in Washington, D.C., marked a crucial step in enhancing U.S.-India economic collaboration. U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and Indian Minister Piyush Goyal discussed progress on multiple initiatives, including a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on critical minerals. The MoU aims to improve supply chain resilience in sectors like semiconductors and energy industries, thus reducing dependence on external sources for critical resources. This partnership is expected to play a vital role in strengthening bilateral economic relations and fostering sustainable growth.
A new MoU signed between BHP and the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) represents a significant move towards sustainable steel production. The agreement will focus on researching sustainable technologies, such as hydrogen and biochar as alternative reductants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative aligns with India's climate commitments and reflects a growing trend towards decarbonizing the steel industry.
Amidst increasing global competition for critical minerals, India is adopting strategic measures to reduce its reliance on China. The Critical Mineral Mission aims to boost domestic mineral production, expand international partnerships, and incorporate sustainable mining practices. This initiative will not only strengthen India's position in the global supply chain but also support the country’s transition to clean energy solutions.
The e-waste crisis poses significant environmental and public health risks, particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). In 2022, approximately 95% of India's 4,100 million kg of e-waste was recycled informally, leading to hazardous consequences. The updated E-waste Management Rules in India aim to formalize e-waste recycling, enhance infrastructure, and combat issues like planned obsolescence. Collaborative efforts at the global level and strong regulatory frameworks are essential for effective e-waste management.
In an effort to promote sustainability, JSW Energy and MG Motor India have launched an Industrial Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) system that uses repurposed electric vehicle (EV) batteries. This innovation extends the lifecycle of EV batteries and provides reliable energy solutions for various industrial applications. It sets an example of how circular economy principles can drive energy efficiency and reduce waste in the EV sector.
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