Indian environment staggers under twin burdens
IS THE Indian economy becoming more and more environment-intensive? The greater the use made of energy and materials by an economy to produce goods and services worth one unit of its GNP, the greater its impact will be on the environment. Available data shows economic development in India relies upon increasing consumption of energy and materials.
The material intensity -- in terms of aluminium, cement and steel consumption -- has been on the rise. One possible explanation is that a growing economy, which is yet to meet, for instance, the housing requirements of all its citizens, is likely to register a spurt in construction and other activities. Hence, rate of consumption of materials such as cement and steel is likely to grow. Aluminium, which has emerged as a substitute for steel in the manufacture of electrical wires, heavy vehicle bodies and doors and windows, is also likely to show a rising trend. Isn't it time the country began worrying about more efficient use of energy and materials?