Robust governmental policies, incentivising renewable energy investments and fostering integrated regional energy markets are pivotal for advancing sustainable energy solutions, said key speakers at the recently held International Conference on Sustainable Energy Economics at the Goa Institute of Management’s (GIM) Sanquelim campus. The experts also extolled the significance of clay as a sustainable, eco-friendly building material.
Held in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Applied Economics Association (APAEA), Australia, the conference aimed to advance sustainable energy solutions in the Asia-Pacific region through economic strategies and policies.
The conference featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, including Prof. Dr Paresh Kumar Narayan, President of APAEA, Australia, Dr Pradip V. Sarmokadam, member secretary of the Goa State Biodiversity Board and Prof. Dr Ajit Parulekar, Director of the Goa Institute of Management, Prof. Dr D.N. Venkatesh, Dean of the Goa Institute of Management and Prof. Dr Chinmaya Behera, the conference convener.
Dr Pradip V. Sarmokadam, member secretary of the Goa State Biodiversity Board, highlighted the environmental benefits of using clay, stating, “Traditional approaches like clay-made homes contribute to sustainability and biodiversity in several significant ways. Clay, being a natural and abundant material, has a minimal environmental footprint during extraction and use. Unlike manufactured building materials, which often require high energy inputs and produce significant emissions, clay can be locally sourced and processed with less energy.”
Speakers at the conference also focused on the qualities of clay, an abundantly available resource, in reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems, thereby lowering energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and the material’s biodegradable quality, which does not release harmful chemicals into the environment.
Mobilising private and public financial resources through mechanisms like green bonds, climate finance and international cooperation is essential to finance the significant capital required for large-scale sustainable energy projects.
The conference also delved into the importance of nurturing human capital through tailored education and training programs in sustainable energy technologies, ensuring a workforce capable of supporting and sustaining the energy transition.
Prof. Dr D.N. Venkatesh, Dean of the Goa Institute of Management, discussed the Institute’s sustainability initiatives, including the installation of photovoltaic panels for solar power generation. “This initiative not only reduces our carbon footprint but also significantly cuts energy costs, showcasing our leadership in renewable energy adoption,” he said.
“GIM is dedicated to promoting sustainability and environmental conservation through innovative initiatives and collaborations. We believe that by implementing these solutions, we can contribute to a more sustainable future for all,” said Prof. Dr Ajit Parulekar, Director at GIM.
GIM’s Sanquelim campus has developed comprehensive rainwater harvesting systems that capture, store and reuse rainwater for landscaping and sanitary purposes in order to aid in water conservation efforts and reduce dependence on conventional water supply. The Institute has also implemented advanced waste management practices, which include extensive recycling programmes, organic waste composting and initiatives to minimise single-use plastics, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable water management practices.
