"Chemicals & Petrochemicals Industry Must Adopt Safety Measures," Arun Baroka at ICC Sustainability Conclave

Arun Baroka, Secretary, Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, today inaugurated the 4th edition of the Indian Chemicals Council (ICC) Sustainability Conclave, with the theme 'Boardrooms to Community-ESG, Carbon Neutrality, Operational Safety, Greener Solutions' in New Delhi.

The 2-day event promotes sustainability in the management of chemicals throughout their entire life cycle. It is being organised in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA), with the full support of the Ministries of Chemicals and Fertilizers and Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change.

In his opening remarks, Arun Baroka expressed confidence that the ideas presented in the conclave would provide valuable takeaways. He praised the ICC for hosting the sustainability conclave. Baroka also stated that India has already discussed climate and sustainability issues, and that we should work to achieve the goals without relying on outside assistance.

The Secretary also mentioned government initiatives such as PLI schemes, the government's collaboration with industries, and the creation of a 'ease of doing business' environment. He also stated that the government is doing everything possible and that feedback is always welcome.

When it comes to safety and standards, Baroka believes that small steps toward safety are critical for long-term development. He stated that one accident can cause problems for humans, industry, and the environment, so precautions should be taken.

Jacqueline Alvarez, Chief, Chemicals & Health Branch, UNEP, stated that it is not just about pollution and chemicals, but also about life, social development, and economic sustainability. She went on to say that we're talking about incentives and alternatives, not just legacies, but also the future.

'Be ambitious, think globally, and act locally,' she added. Several speakers shared their perspectives on climate change, sustainable development, and the steps that could be taken in this direction.

Ashwin C Shroff, Chairman and MD, Excel Industries Ltd; Nitin Desai, Chairman, TERI Governing Council; and Bimal L Goculdas, President, ICC and MD & CEO, DMCC Speciality Chemicals Ltd. The event is attended by CEOs and representatives of Indian and global chemical companies, people working in EHS departments in companies, Central and State Government officials, Pollution Control Boards, international multilateral organisations, Global chemical industry bodies, and experts from academia and civil society organisations.