In a decisive move towards environmental sustainability, the Mira Bhayander Municipal Corporation (MBMC) has launched a comprehensive Climate Action Plan aimed at reducing carbon emissions and transforming the city into a net-zero urban centre by 2047. The initiative was officially announced at the Climate Action Workshop in Bandra, Mumbai, in collaboration with the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) and key industry stakeholders.

Mira Bhayander, one of the fastest-growing cities in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), has witnessed a 50.05% increase in built-up areas between 2005 and 2022, leading to a 13.6% decline in green cover and a 0.46°C rise in annual temperatures. This urbanization has exacerbated issues such as flooding, water scarcity, and severe traffic congestion, contributing to the city's ongoing environmental challenges.

A recent Greenhouse Gas (GHG) assessment revealed that 62% of the city's carbon emissions come from stationary energy sources, 22% from transportation, and 16% from waste management. To address these challenges, MBMC has devised a multi-pronged strategy focusing on renewable energy, sustainable transport, waste reduction, and urban greening.

The Climate Action Plan aims to increase carbon sequestration by 41%, aligning with the Central Electricity Authority's target of reducing emissions by 23%. The core strategies include: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Generation: Promoting solar power adoption and energy-efficient appliances. Water Conservation and Flood Mitigation: Implementing rainwater harvesting and efficient drainage systems. Urban Greening and Biodiversity Preservation: Expanding green cover and tree plantations. Improved Air Quality and Waste Management: Strengthening waste segregation, recycling, and emission controls. Sustainable Mobility Solutions: Encouraging electric vehicles, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and efficient public transport.

With residential energy consumption contributing 40.5% of emissions, MBMC has successfully piloted an eco-friendly housing model at the Navjivan Housing Society, reducing emissions by over 60%. The project incorporated: Solar PV Systems for clean energy generation. Energy-efficient BLDC fans and LED lighting to reduce power usage. Water-saving appliances to optimize consumption.

Following the success of this model, MBMC plans to scale the initiative across the city, making energy-efficient housing a key pillar of its climate strategy.

The Climate Action Workshop, where the plan was unveiled, brought together senior policymakers, environmental experts, and industry leaders. Notable attendees included Praveen Pardeshi (IAS), CEO, Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA), Bipin Shrimali (IAS), Managing Director, MAHAPREIT, Prerana Langa, CEO, Aga Khan Agency for Habitat, Kalpita Pimple, Deputy Commissioner (HQ), MBMC, Sanjay Shripatrao Katkar (IAS), Commissioner & Administrator, MBMC.

Representatives from C40 Cities, Maharashtra State Climate Action Cell, UN-Habitat, corporate CSR divisions, and environmental think tanks were also present to discuss sustainable urban development strategies.

During the workshop, Praveen Pardeshi highlighted the paradox of Mumbai, with its high green cover yet alarming air pollution levels caused by vehicular emissions. He emphasized the urgent need for policy enforcement and public awareness to drive sustainable change.

MBMC Commissioner Sanjay Shripatrao Katkar stressed that the Climate Action Plan would introduce eco-friendly practices into daily life, with initiatives like Home@20, designed to reduce household emissions and promote energy efficiency.

“Mira Bhayander is committed to sustainable urban development. Through strategic interventions, we aim to set a benchmark for climate-conscious cities in India,” said Katkar.

With a clear roadmap and collective action, Mira Bhayander's Climate Action Plan is poised to redefine urban sustainability, making the city a model for climate resilience by 2047