Indore Launches Ambitious ‘Indore Climate Mission’ to Become the World’s First Energy-Literate City – EQ
In Short : Indore, aiming to be the world’s first energy-literate city, launched the “Indore Climate Mission” on December 1, 2024. The initiative, in partnership with the Energy Swaraj Foundation, plans to engage 3.5 million residents in reducing carbon emissions. The 100-day campaign encourages energy-saving habits, targeting a 7-10% decrease in electricity use to promote sustainability.
In Detail : Indore the cleanest city in India for several years, has embarked on an ambitious plan to become the world’s first energy-literate city. Starting December 1, 2024, the city launched the “Indore Climate Mission,” aiming to educate its 35 lakh residents about the importance of energy conservation and sustainable habits. This initiative is spearheaded by the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) in collaboration with the Energy Swaraj Foundation, led by Dr. Chetan Singh Solanki, a renowned advocate for solar energy.
The campaign’s goal is to reduce carbon emissions by encouraging citizens to adopt energy-efficient behaviors. Over the course of 100 days, the mission will focus on training residents to decrease their electricity consumption by 7-10%. By doing so, Indore hopes to not only mitigate climate change but also create a sustainable urban model for the rest of the world to follow.
Dr. Solanki, widely known as the “Solar Man of India,” emphasizes that small changes in daily habits can make a significant impact. For example, residents are encouraged to reduce the use of energy-intensive appliances like irons, or to eat uncooked food one day a week. These actions, although seemingly minor, can collectively contribute to substantial reductions in energy usage and the city’s overall carbon footprint.
In addition to reducing electricity consumption, the mission also promotes broader environmental goals such as waste reduction, water conservation, and sustainable material usage. The program is expected to lead to long-term behavioral changes, fostering a climate-conscious community. The involvement of educational institutions, local corporations, and government entities will help spread the message across various segments of the population.
The 100-day campaign will be supported by around 500 volunteers who will help engage the public through workshops, awareness programs, and community outreach efforts. These volunteers, along with experts, will provide practical tips on how to save energy at home and in workplaces. This large-scale educational effort is expected to set a benchmark for other cities in India and globally.
Through this innovative approach, Indore is positioning itself not only as a leader in waste management and cleanliness but also as a pioneer in tackling climate change through grassroots-level energy literacy. The mission aligns with India’s broader sustainability and climate action goals, showcasing how local initiatives can drive global change.
