The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework which is a global agreement to restrict and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 has mobilized governments and private organizations last year for conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems across the world. WWF, the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), and AECOM, one of the largest engineering consultancy firms have jointly developed a strategic guide which provides engineers and conservationists with tools and examples required for better integration of environmental considerations and sustainability into infrastructure projects.
In this regard, the infrastructure sector needs to play a crucial part by putting nature at the heart of the design and offer sustainable ways to help reach infrastructure goals.
“As a proud G20 member, India is committed to advancing global sustainable development goals. Our engineers are the torchbearers of progress. They are the champions of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with a strong potential to transform its principles into tangible actions”, mentioned Abhyuday Jindal, MD, Jindal Stainless.
A number of factors come into play when we talk about balancing the subjects of infrastructure development and environmental sustainability.
Until now there is no universally accepted definition for nature positive approach for infrastructure development because the idea is constantly evolving. Various infrastructure initiatives are focusing on the reduction of environmental impacts by incorporating green elements into the designs and not completely keeping natural ecosystems at the core of implementations. Here, it is worth mentioning that building projects that are a part of nature instead of building around it is the key to implementing nature-positive infrastructure.
To give an example, Singapore provides a place where nature-positive infrastructure has been extensively implemented to address urban challenges and enhance the quality of life for its residents. One notable project is the Gardens by the Bay. It is a sprawling nature park located in the heart of Singapore, adjacent to the Marina Reservoir. It features three distinct waterfront gardens – Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central – spanning a total of 101 hectares (250 acres). The park is renowned for its iconic Supertree Grove, which consists of towering vertical gardens resembling trees, ranging from 25 to 50 meters in height.
Sustainable infrastructure is the need of the hour as has been realized by the global economies. It can only be achieved by utilizing sustainable materials and technologies in order to develop a social friendly infrastructure. Green metals like stainless steel can be of use in this aspect and the need for engineers in this sector will double over the coming decade. It will majorly upon the shoulders of these next generation engineers to reduce carbon emissions by developing environmentally sustainable technologies, optimizing usage of energy and minimizing waste.
Considering India’s bright growth trajectory according to the report that was jointly conducted by Knight Frank India and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the expectation is that employment in the manufacturing sectors will cross 100 million by 2030 and engineers will constitute to over 40% of the skilled workforce.
“Engineers will also play an essential role in sustainable urban development. As cities continue to expand rapidly, engineers will design and implement smart urban infrastructure solutions that reduce congestion, lower emissions, and enhance the overall quality of life for urban dwellers. This could include intelligent traffic management systems, eco-friendly public transportation, and energy-efficient building designs”, mentioned Abhyuday Jindal.
Currently, close to 2 billion people live in regions that are at risk of facing acute water scarcity, and water crises is slowly emerging as one of the greatest risks to the global economy. Reports have revealed that the world has lost 83% of its freshwater species populations since 1970 and one third of its remaining wetlands. At a situation like this, climate crisis will immediately impact on freshwater bodies that will only worsen the situation. The necessity to fulfill the global demand for water and wastewater services is putting tremendous pressure on biodiversity and natural resources.
As a response to this situation, India’s waste management industry is expected to cross USD 35 billion by 2028 in which the engineering sector will play a vital role in the transformation of waste management practices. By successful recycling implementations, adapting to waste-to-energy initiatives, and welcoming circular economy principles, the engineering sector can help in reducing waste while minimizing environmental impact.
As we move ahead, the need for sustainable engineering and infrastructure solutions will also grow. Amidst rapid urbanization, it is the engineering sector that needs to find ways to implement green solutions and designs in infrastructure projects and create a secure environment for the coming generations.
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