Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation
Q6. “The challenge of decarbonising small-scale industries lies as much in economics as in environmental regulation”. Discuss. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question
Decarbonisation of MSMEs and traditional industries has become crucial for achieving India’s climate commitments while maintaining industrial growth and employment generation.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires discussing how economic factors create challenges in decarbonising small-scale industries and how environmental regulatory issues also hinder the transition. It further requires suggesting suitable measures to overcome these barriers.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly mention the importance of MSMEs/small-scale industries in India’s economy and the need for low-carbon industrial growth.
Body
- Economic challenges: Explain how financial, technological, market or competitiveness-related factors affect decarbonisation efforts.
- Environmental regulatory challenges: Highlight issues relating to compliance, enforcement, institutional capacity or implementation of environmental regulations.
- Way forward: Suggest policy, financial, technological and institutional measures for facilitating a just and effective transition.
Conclusion
Conclude with the need for balancing environmental sustainability, industrial competitiveness and inclusive economic development through a supportive transition framework.
