As India navigates its path towards economic development, the nation grapples with the challenge of rising carbon emissions, projected to peak around 2040-45.
While not the largest contributor globally, India’s growing carbon footprint is significantly influenced by key sectors vital to its economic progress, including the energy industry, industrial activities, and transportation. Addressing emissions across these sectors is paramount to India’s commitment to combatting climate change and fostering sustainable growth. In the global context of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption, India stands as a significant player, ranking high in emissions and energy use categories. However, its medium ranking in climate policy and renewable energy underscores the need for accelerated efforts in these crucial areas. Despite being the world’s most populous country, India maintains relatively low per capita emissions, positioning it favourably in its pursuit of climate targets, as highlighted by the Climate Change Performance Index.
The warehousing and logistics sector in India has emerged as a cornerstone of economic growth, driven by factors such as infrastructure development, the rapid expansion of e-commerce, growing consumer demands, and government initiatives to bolster manufacturing capabilities. This surge in demand for warehousing facilities, particularly Grade A, ESG-compliant warehouses equipped with modern storage solutions, has reshaped India’s logistics landscape.
According to a recent report by JLL, the total warehousing stock in major Indian cities, encompassing Grade A and B facilities, reached 371 million square feet by the end of 2023, reflecting a notable increase from the previous year. However, warehouses significantly contribute to carbon emissions, accounting for approximately 11% of emissions attributed to logistics activities.
In response to this environmental challenge, the warehousing sector is undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainability. From adopting renewable energy sources and implementing energy-efficient technologies to optimising transportation routes and minimising waste generation, warehousing companies are pioneering eco-friendly practices to mitigate their carbon footprint. This paradigm shift towards green warehousing not only aligns with India’s climate goals but also positions the sector as a leader in driving positive environmental change while sustaining economic growth.
