CERC’s voice at the World Trade Organization (WTO) Public Forum conference at Geneva, Switzerland

The Public Forum at the World Trade Organization, Geneva, 2024, the theme of which was entitled ‘Re-globalization: Better Trade for a Better World’, is the WTO’s largest outreach event, providing a unique platform for stakeholders from around the world to discuss the latest developments in global trade and to propose ways of enhancing the multilateral trading system.

CERC’s intervention was during the session “Unlocking sustainable consumption through green trade policies.” The discussion focused on the need for a green transition that empowers consumers to adopt more sustainable lifestyles, which has never been more apparent than it is today.

During this session, consumer advocates from different regions of the world discussed what consumers need to make more sustainable choices and what habits they are ready to change. CERC showcased successful green measures from India and discussed what still needs to be done to support consumers.

In response to specific questions on what the situation is in India regarding sustainable consumption & there is also a demand emerging from consumers, Ms Mehta discussed that sustainable development in the Indian context is becoming popular, and India’s initiatives have encouraged many other countries as well.

The Indian government has launched several effective and flagship programs to achieve the SDGs. To encourage industries to align with the government’s policy agenda towards SDGs, incentives such as subsidies for renewable energy usage and tax benefits are being provided. Indian consumers are becoming increasingly discerning when it comes to their choices, and they are looking for brands that reflect their values. For businesses, this is an opportunity to embrace sustainability and eco-friendliness as central components of their brand identity. There sure is a strong passive demand among consumers to adopt sustainable lifestyles, which needs to be nurtured. The consumers need to be gently nudged, empowered & educated with the knowledge and tools they need to make a sustainable lifestyle the norm.

However, challenges remain regarding the accessibility and affordability of such products, and some consumers may not be willing to pay a premium for sustainability just yet.

There is a significant demand for sustainable lifestyles, although it is not at the forefront of people’s minds. The impact of current development models and climate change is well recognized, however, improving an individual’s standard of living and social conditions understandably still remains a top priority in India.

Infrastructure changes are needed to develop more sustainable lifestyles.