New Delhi: Products sold in the market should be required to display their carbon footprint on packaging, just as they carry information about ingredients and manufacturing and expiry dates. This was voiced during a conference of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in collaboration with Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organisation (HESCO), where experts discussed practical measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable consumption.“If food packages can display information, such as calories and other nutritional details, commercial products should likewise carry information about their carbon footprint. This will create greater public awareness and encourage consumers to make environmentally conscious choices by being more sensitive to carbon emissions associated with the products they use,” Sachchidanand Joshi, member secretary of IGNCA, said, adding that recommendations regarding this will be compiled and sent to the Prime Minister.Environmentalist Anil P Joshi pointed out how consumer habits and patterns of consumerism can significantly affect carbon footprint. “The products should display the consequential environmental effects of lifestyles and consumption choices, enabling consumers to make more informed decisions,” he said, adding that it will set the trend with mass awareness.He pointed out that 40 billion tonnes of carbon are emitted globally each year, while fluorinated carbon emissions account for approximately 11 million to 12 million tonnes. He said the possibility of reversing the changes remains limited, estimating it at 10% to 12%. Transportation, industrialisation, excessive energy consumption, deforestation and unsustainable consumerism are among the primary drivers behind rising greenhouse gas emissions.Among the speakers, Justice Sangeeta Dhingra Sehgal suggested exploring legal avenues to bring carbon-footprint disclosure within the ambit of consumer rights. She recommended approaching consumer forums and, if necessary, National Green Tribunal (NGT) to advance the cause.Dr P Kaushal of IIT emphasised the need for greater engagement with industries to encourage adoption of sustainable production practices.
