The 4th Indo-German Environmental Forum was held in New Delhi to deepen cooperation between India and Germany on environmental protection and climate change. The forum brought together policymakers, industry representatives, think tanks and other stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore practical solutions for sustainable development.
4th Indo-German Environmental Forum Highlights
- Theme: “Together For More Resilience”. The theme underlined the need for stronger India–Germany cooperation to build climate-resilient, resource-efficient and sustainable development pathways.
- Co-Chairs:
- Bhupender Yadav – Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, India
- Carsten Schneider – German Minister for Environment, Climate Protection, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety
India–Germany Environmental Cooperation
The forum is the highest-level bilateral engagement between India and Germany on environmental policy.
- It has been held since 2008.
- The forum is organised in association with the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business and Indian industry associations.
- It facilitates dialogue not only between governments but also among the private sector, think tanks and other relevant stakeholders.
Joint Declaration on Wetlands
An important outcome of the meeting was the signing of a ‘Joint Declaration of Intent on the Conservation and Wise Use of Wetlands of International Importance‘ by India and Germany.
The declaration strengthens bilateral cooperation in protecting and sustainably managing internationally important wetlands.
Major Thematic Areas
The forum’s discussions focused on four broad areas:
- Low-Carbon Industries
Exploring pathways towards cleaner and lower-carbon industrial development. - Biodiversity in Wetlands, Mountains and Forests
Addressing conservation and sustainable management of critical ecosystems and biodiversity. - Resource Efficiency & Circular Economy as a Business Model
Promoting efficient resource use and business models based on reuse, recycling and circular production. - Sustainable Finance, Green Skills & Investment Mobilization
Examining ways to mobilise investment, develop green skills and strengthen financing for sustainable development.