Title 9.2 Green Engineering and Sustainable Technologies.pdf ✅

Green Engineering and Sustainable Technologies in India The Imperative of Green Engineering The story of India's development in the 21st century is inseparable from its dual challenge: meeting the energy demands of a rapidly growing economy and population, while simultaneously addressing the urgent threat of climate change. For decades, India's energy mix was heavily reliant on fossil fuels, particularly coal, which powered its industrialization but came with a significant environmental cost. However, in recent years, a profound and strategic shift has taken place. This new era is defined by the principles of Green Engineering and Sustainable Technologies. Green Engineering is not a single discipline but a holistic approach to engineering that focuses on designing and developing products, processes, and systems that are environmentally friendly, energy-efficient, and socially responsible. It is the application of science and engineering to create solutions that mitigate climate change, conserve natural resources, and reduce pollution, all while ensuring economic viability and long-term sustainability. 1. The Context: A Nation at a Crossroads  Energy Demand: With a population of over 1.4 billion and a growing industrial base, India's energy needs are soaring. Ensuring a stable and affordable energy supply is a top national priority.  Climate Commitments: India has made ambitious international commitments to combat climate change, most notably at the COP21 Paris Agreement and later at COP26 in Glasgow, where it pledged to achieve 'net- zero' carbon emissions by 2070.  The Opportunity: This presents a unique opportunity for Indian engineers to innovate. Instead of following the fossil-fuel-intensive development path of industrialized nations, India is leapfrogging to a future powered by clean, renewable energy. This strategic choice is not only about meeting