The Indian Union Cabinet has approved a budget of ₹1,500 crore to boost recycling of critical minerals. The scheme aims to strengthen India’s domestic capacity. It will run from FY 2025-26 to FY 2030-31. The initiative will cover e-waste and lithium-ion battery recycling. Government expects to significantly increase annual recycling capacity, and also generate employment.
Most of the world’s top EV battery makers are failing to set strong climate targets, particularly for adopting 100% renewable electricity and cutting supply chain emissions. While companies like CATL, LG Energy Solution, and Panasonic Energy have set such goals, the majority still lack commitments, leaving their production reliant on fossil fuels. Manufacturers must shift rapidly to renewables, set supplier reduction targets, and use recycled materials to genuinely support the global low-carbon transition..
Sustainable packaging can help address urban plastic pollution, which clogs drains, pollutes rivers, and threatens health. Biodegradable and plant-based materials offer cleaner streets, reduced flooding, and healthier living environments. Beyond environmental gains, such packaging fosters eco-conscious behavior, echoing traditional values like Ahimsa. While challenges remain—such as higher costs and limited composting infrastructure—collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and citizens can make it viable. Examples from brands and communities show its potential to transform urban life, reconnect people with mindful living, and move cities toward resilience and sustainability.
A new study from the University of Toulouse reveals that people may inhale around 68,000 microplastic particles daily inside homes and cars—100 times more than previously thought. These tiny particles, often smaller than dust, come from degrading household plastics, fabrics, and car interiors. Using Raman Spectroscopy, researchers found that microplastics can penetrate deep into the lungs, potentially causing inflammation, immune disruption, and risks linked to respiratory, cardiovascular, reproductive, and neurological health. The findings highlight that microplastics are not just an ocean pollutant but a pervasive indoor health threat, urging stricter standards for safe environments and materials.
The Greenpeace India story “The Journey of Shade” highlights how Delhi’s street vendors, who endure extreme summer heat without relief, found respite through community-driven innovation. Initially exploring upcycled sarees for market canopies, the project shifted to sustainable fabric woven from old woollens by Moradabad weavers, in collaboration with Goonj. Residents’ Welfare Associations and citizens donated knitwear, symbolizing solidarity with vendors often marginalized in city life. Installed in markets like Burari and Meena Bazaar, the canopies not only provided shade but also boosted morale, footfall, and community support. Beyond heat relief, they became symbols of dignity, resilience, and collective care.
Greenpeace is urging stronger climate cooperation between the EU and China ahead of COP30, proposing a China-EU Climate Pact to accelerate global climate action. The organization stresses that both sides must present ambitious new climate targets, scale up renewable energy, and phase out coal. Greenpeace argues that collaboration between two of the world’s largest markets is essential to counter climate denialism, strengthen multilateralism, and keep the 1.5°C goal alive. While the EU positions itself as a climate leader, Greenpeace warns its current targets fall short, calling on both China and Europe to demonstrate true leadership in the clean energy transition.
