"The Net-Zero Movement: India@100"

As India approaches 100 years since its rebirth, the question is no longer about growth or expansion. The real challenge is building a resilient nation that protects its geographical, ecological, and economic fabric. The question is: how can India achieve this future? And as urban planners, architects and designers what role can we play alongside government and policymakers to reach the net-zero target?

Beyond institutions and policy frameworks, the movement also depends on individual responsibility. Even a single person’s everyday choices, when replicated across millions, can influence and accelerate the journey towards net zero.

Over the past century, India has made remarkable strides, but the next 25 years demand bold, deliberate action. Total emissions have surged from roughly 25 million tons in 1947 to nearly 3 billion tons in 2025, a staggering 120× increase. The construction sector’s contribution to emissions grew from 20–33% (1955–2022) to 37–39% in just three years (2022–2025). As we approach a century of Independence, we, as members of the design fraternity, must understand that every design decision influences India’s shift towards net zero.

‘The Net Zero Movement’ is a manifesto for India@2047, where development and sustainability advance together. It reminds us that the decisions we make today will define India’s future and spark a global shift toward responsible, carbon-conscious progress.