Considering the importance of standardisation in the environment and ecology, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the National Standards Body of India, has decided to create a new department for standardisation on issues concerning the environment and ecology by the name Environment and Ecology Department (EED). In order to set a strong foundation for the future activities of the newly founded department, the Bureau organised a workshop on ‘Standardization for Environment and Ecology’ in the presence of more than 100 eminent experts from across the country.
Standardisation plays a vital role in the continuous pursuit of sustainable development. This is because standards significantly influence the development of both products and processes. The purpose of setting standards in Environment and Ecology is to safeguard the environment, human health, and natural resources. These standards can define acceptable energy consumption levels, waste management procedures, and other environmental and ecological preservation measures. They can encompass various activities, such as addressing air and water pollution, proper disposal of hazardous waste, and biodiversity conservation.
In view of sensitising the relevant experts, BIS organised a workshop on ‘Standardization for Environment and Ecology’. The workshop was held on 12th August 2024 at Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre), Dwarka in New Delhi.
The event was graced by Smt. Leena Nandan, Secretary Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change; Shri Pramod Kumar Tiwari, Director General, Bureau of Indian Standards; Shri J S Kamyotra, Former Member Secretary, CPCB, as guest speaker.
While lauding the BIS initiative, Smt Leena Nandan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change, the Chief Guest, said, “I congratulate BIS for organising this workshop on such a critical topic. When we talk about standards, the most important are interactions between experts and consultation with all concerned stakeholder groups. I am happy that this workshop is designed to be a platform where experts and stakeholders could come together and brainstorm to develop a future roadmap for the newly established ‘Department of Environment and Ecology’ at BIS.” She further emphasized the importance of collaboration between BIS, the Ministry of Environment & Forests and other stakeholders to bring out standards on a diverse range of matters affecting the larger society. She also talked about a few areas where such collaboration works effectively such as schemes for ECO-Mark, standards and practices relating to sustainably grown wood or Blue Flag Beaches etc.
Shri Pramod Kumar Tiwari, Director General, Bureau of Indian Standards, during his opening address said, “It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this landmark workshop on ‘Standardisation for Environment and Ecology’. Today marks a pivotal moment in the journey of the Bureau of Indian Standards as we inaugurate our new Environment and Ecology Department. In my 4.5 years with BIS, I’ve seen our commitment to excellence in standardisation grow stronger. With the new Environment and Ecology Department, we’re not just fulfilling the requirement for the best standards but building a comprehensive plan of action that addresses all ecological needs. We aim to create standards that bring sustainability to India and the world. We’re collaborating with experts, academics, and industry associates, fostering innovation through 115 ongoing R&D projects. We’ll host technological seminars in the next two months to gather expert views. Our vision is clear: to become a world leader in environmental standardisation, setting benchmarks for global sustainability.”
Shri J S Kamyotra, Former Member Secretary, CPCB, Guest Speaker, said, “It feels great to be part of such an event that will have a long-term impact on issues concerning environment and ecology. BIS has been working to develop sustainable standards. However, sometimes, it is observed that there is some communication gap between the organisations responsible for dealing with specific issues. With the establishment of this dedicated Department of Environment and Ecology, I believe a robust platform has been created for organisations facing similar challenges to collaborate and address these issues by leveraging their unique expertise. This will also help prevent duplication of efforts and the wastage of resources. I am confident that the team of BIS scientists will consolidate efforts to boost standardisation activity in the field of environment and ecology.”
Shri Chandan Bahl, Deputy Director General, while welcoming the participants stated that standards can play a pivotal role in shaping our response to environmental challenges. He emphasized that “Today’s workshop is a platform for experts to share their views and help BIS chart a clear roadmap for this new department over the next three years. He encouraged the participants to maximise the impact of their presence by engaging fully in discussions, including the parallel panel sessions aimed at identifying gaps in existing standards and areas where new standards are needed. Our goal is to develop a strategic approach and create a robust framework of standards that will guide us towards a healthier, more sustainable future.”
In this transformative phase of strengthening our environmental standards, the BIS reaffirms its commitment to environment conservation by integrating expertise and focusing on critical areas. With the formation of the Environment and Ecology Division Council, BIS is poised to address both present challenges and future needs with renewed vigour.
The event witnessed the active participation of more than 100 experts from different parts of the country. The participants deliberated and discussed different sub-topics/areas for standardisation in the field of environment and ecology
