Bhubaneswar: The State Pollution Control Board and the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) of Odisha recently collaborated to organize the fifth edition of the Summit on Climate Change at a local hotel in Bhubaneswar. The key focus of the day-long event was “Air Pollution and Climate Change: Interlinkages, Impacts and Exploring Integrated Solutions.”
Discussions emphasized the need for immediate and concerted action to protect the environment. Former ICC President J B Pany, who presided over the event, pointed out that Odisha’s numerous mineral-based industrial areas contribute significantly to air pollution. He advocated for a strategy that emphasizes carbon utilization and a major shift in focus toward nuclear and renewable energy sources, citing China’s success in using technology to reduce pollution.
Smt.Uma Nanduri, Member Secretary of the State Pollution Control Board, highlighted that climate change has become a major contemporary challenge. She stressed the importance of community awareness and action, noting the government’s efforts to curb pollution. Specific areas needing public engagement include reducing plastic use and controlling pollution caused by road dust and building construction activities.
Skill Development and Technical Education, Secretary, Bhupinder Singh Punia, the chief guest, stated that climate pollution is now a significant crisis. He observed that the issue is not limited to the industrial sector but is also being driven by pollution at the individual level, asserting that greater awareness among citizens holds the potential to significantly mitigate pollution.
Adding to this, MSME Director Smt.Aboli Sunil Naravane warned that the threat posed by environmental degradation and climate change is more profound than commonly perceived. She pointed to rapid industrialization and human activities as having a disastrous impact and called for immediate steps to find effective solutions.
The program featured contributions from a range of eminent personalities, panelists, and experts, including Co-convener Engg. Rajesh Kanungo, Deputy Director of State Factories and Gas Directorate Dr. Malay Kumar Pradhan, and Managing Director of OPGC Shri Kedar Ranjan Pandu, all of whom shared their perspectives on climate change.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the convener of the ESH Committee, ICC State Council, Dr. N.R. Sahu. ICC State Council Joint Director Shri J.P. Pal and other ICC officials were also present.