World Environment Day 2023

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Context:

World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5th, serves as a platform to raise awareness about environmental protection and sustainability.

Relevance:

GS III: Environment and Ecology

Dimensions of the Article:

To commemorate the 50th anniversary, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and the Collaborative Labeling and Appliance Standards Program (CLASP), an international non-governmental organization, joined forces to host a conference titled “Consumer-Centric Approaches for E-cooking Transition” in New Delhi.
The primary objective of the conference was to expedite the adoption of energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective e-cooking solutions throughout India.

Establishment and Hosting:

World Environment Day was established by the United Nations Assembly on June 5, 1972.
It is hosted by a different country each year.
India hosted the 45th celebration in 2018 with the theme ‘Beat Plastic Pollution.’
Côte d’Ivoire, in partnership with the Netherlands, is hosting the 2023 World Environment Day.

50th Anniversary:

Theme for 2023:

Objectives:

Definition and Adoption:

E-cooking involves using electric cooking appliances as a clean and energy-efficient alternative.
It includes electric stoves, induction cooktops, and other electric cooking devices.
It is gaining popularity as a sustainable cooking method in households.

Role of Electricity Access in India:

India’s achievement of 24/7 electricity access has been a driving factor in the transition to e-cooking.
The Saubhagya Scheme has provided electricity connections, eliminating power cuts and facilitating the adoption of electric cooking.

Mission LiFE and Clean Cooking Energy:

E-cooking is a crucial part of India’s Mission LiFE initiative.
Mission LiFE promotes sustainable lifestyles and aims to create pro-planet advocates.
Clean cooking energy is essential for India’s energy transition, aligning with Mission LiFE’s goals.

Scalability and Affordability:

With reliable electricity access, e-cooking is poised to become the future of Indian kitchens.
Electric cooking technology is scalable and affordable, suitable for both urban and rural areas.

Promoting Adoption and Affordability:

Developing affordable business models is key to widespread adoption of e-cooking solutions.
Utilizing renewable energy sources, such as solar and thermal power, can reduce costs and enhance accessibility.
Aggregation models and price reduction strategies can make e-cooking more affordable for a larger population.

Overcoming Technology Barriers:

Concerns regarding appliance faults and compatibility have been addressed in e-cooking technology.
Replicating successful e-cooking models at scale and gradually replacing traditional cookers can build consumer confidence and facilitate a smooth transition.

Benefits for Power Sector and Consumers:

E-cooking aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7.1, ensuring universal access to clean cooking and improving indoor air quality.
Energy consumption in reheating can be reduced, contributing to a cleaner, greener lifestyle.

The BEE was established on 1st March 2002 under the provisions of the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
Objective: To reduce the energy intensity of the Indian economy.
It coordinates with designated consumers, designated agencies, and other organizations.
It recognizes, identifies, and utilizes existing resources and infrastructure to perform the functions assigned to it under the Energy Conservation Act.

-Source: The Hindu, PIB