Earth Sciences Forum on climate change launched

New Delhi, Apr 21 (UNI) The Government and HSBC India today joined hands to launch the 'Earth Science Forum' to tackle climate change.

A memorandum of understanding in this regard was signed by Earth Sciences Minister Kapil Sibal and HSBC India Country Head Naina Lal Kidwai here.

''It is the first public-private partnership in the country on climate change.... HSBC has been chosen as it is the only entity that is carbon neutral,'' Mr Sibal told a press conference.

The Forum will bring about awareness on climate change among the general public, children and youth.

It will create a Climate Change Leadership Council, which will meet at least twice a year to finding solutions to climate change.

Chaired by Mr Sibal and co-chaired by Ms Kidwai, the Council will have representatives from the industry, government, academia and NGOs.

The first meeting of the Council will be held after Prime Minister announces the national agenda on climate change sometime in June.

Under the aegies of the Forum, periodic industry-specific learning workshops will be held to demonstrate profitable low carbon growth strategies.

The workshops, starting in June-July, will target carbon-intensive industries, namely iron and steel, electricity, automobiles, IT, real estate and fast moving consumer goods.

The workshops will cover issues such as: -- Sustainable use of natural resources, including water.

-- Research and technology application to ensure reduction in carbon footprint.

-- Responsible financing of industries which rely heavily on natural resources.

-- Investments in green business models with a product prototype or proven product success.

UNI YJ MIR KP1727