Climate change,a catalyst for innovation

The Times of India , Monday, June 07, 2010
Correspondent : CHETAN MAINI
Entrepreneurship has shown drastic changes in almost all economies of the world.With climate change posing one of the biggest threats that the world has ever seen,we now need many more entrepreneurs to dig deep and mobilise their unique talent to help find solutions and reduce the effects of climate change in India and around the world.

I see an enormous amount of opportunity for entrepreneurs to venture into the renewable energy sector and to create renewable energy solutions.The climate change crisis is something that will not be going away any time soon.Hence,the development of energy efficient solutions and products that combat climate change are a must.It will help in reducing pollution and decreasing the amount of energy used in manufacturing.I see this as an enormous,macro-opportunity for the Indian entrepreneurs that would benefit not only India but the world over.

It is likely that the suite of solutions will require a lot of new innovations and many more new local businesses.It will require,directly or indirectly,hordes of people.The ultimate implementation of any plan or innovation will depend on the actions of a majority of those who live today.The creation of community value,in any form assisting in a much larger common good,will return benefits.

CHALLENGES

In a country like India,we are constantly experiencing change and as an entrepreneur there is no single or pre-determined roadmap.When you have an idea that you absolutely believe in I think it is critical that you surround yourself with people who share that dream to help you overcome the hurdles that come your way.

Capital may appear as a limiting factor,since innovation and research require capital.The development of multi-national consortia and non-profits to facilitate research and deployment of new renewable technologies should be increased.

Another challenge in promoting and marketing green energy solutions is the need to change the mindset of people at a macro level.However,in our experience,customers are trying to learn more about fuel efficient technology and emission free hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles.The fact that consumers would consider hybrids or electric vehicles as an option or try and compare them with conventional vehicles means that a change in mindsets is starting to happen,

OPPORTUNITIES

The science of climate change is evolving and the current research seems to point to a faster change.Entrepreneurs know that a crisis like this represents a wealth of opportunities for the ingenious entrepreneur to develop solutions.

Solutions to climate change have predominantly come from the West and they do not always resonate with the value conscious Indian customer.

Keeping in mind both the environment and affordability,I believe there is a great opportunity for India to be a global incubator to facilitate climate change.Finding solutions to these challenges will not only provide business opportunity in India but would have a global impact on the environment.

It seems that entrepreneurs may hold the key to humanitys survival.To realise its full potential,India must play on its strengths,particularly innovation and affordability.The current generation of youth are willing to experiment.These are the people who will bring about entrepreneurship in India.The country is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of global growth and having an active role in the fight against climate change.

I look forward to being a part of making this change happen.

 
SOURCE : http://mobilepaper.timesofindia.com/mobile.aspx?article=yes&pageid=66§id=edid=&edlabel=CAP&mydateHid=07-06-2010&pubname=Times+of+India+-+Delhi&edname=&articleid=Ar06600&publabel=TOI
 


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