Green growth possible if climate treated as business opportunity: CEEW chief

India can unlock significant growth opportunities by viewing climate action through a business lens rather than solely as an environmental imperative, according to the newly appointed chief executive of the Council on Energy, Environment and Water.

Abraham, who recently took the helm of the influential think tank, emphasized that the green transition need not come at the cost of economic expansion. Instead, he argued that strategic investments in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate-resilient infrastructure can generate employment and attract capital while simultaneously addressing environmental challenges.

The remarks reflect a broader shift in how policymakers and thought leaders across South Asia are framing climate action—not as a constraint on development, but as a catalyst for innovation and wealth creation. India's approach to COP31 and its domestic climate commitments will likely be shaped by this philosophy of balancing environmental stewardship with economic growth.

The CEEW chief's perspective aligns with India's stated objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 while maintaining robust economic growth. The challenge ahead lies in translating this vision into concrete policies and investments that mobilize private sector participation and create sustainable livelihoods across sectors ranging from renewable energy to green manufacturing.

As India's climate policy evolves, the integration of economic incentives with environmental goals is expected to play a crucial role in determining the pace and scale of the country's transition to a low-carbon economy.