India and Sweden have significant opportunities to enhance their partnership in innovation and green technology by addressing global climate challenges through sustainable industrial methods and renewable energy initiatives, according to Swedish officials.

Representatives from the Embassy of Sweden and Business Sweden, during a discussion with PTI, highlighted the mutual potential for fostering innovation and scaling up sustainable solutions.
"Sweden excels in green technologies, while India offers unmatched potential for their large-scale implementation. Together, we can explore areas such as green hydrogen, carbon capture, and circular economy practices," said Christian Kamill, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Sweden. He emphasized these sectors as key prospects for joint efforts.

Sweden's Advancements in Renewable Energy and Sustainable Practices

Kamill also highlighted Sweden's advancements in renewable energy and the electrification of transport, noting that more than half of the country's energy is already derived from renewable sources. We are actively working to further boost this share through substantial investments in wind and solar energy," Kamill added.

Discussing sustainable industrial transformation, he emphasized that combining India's manufacturing capabilities with Sweden's expertise in sustainable practices could deliver impactful outcomes. He also pointed out opportunities in renewable energy integration and transport electrification, noting that collaborative efforts could "accelerate the energy transition in both countries."

The India-Sweden Innovations Accelerator and Swedish Companies in India

Sofia Hogman, Sweden's Trade Commissioner to India, highlighted the vital contribution of Swedish companies in advancing sustainability in India.

She highlighted the India-Sweden Innovations Accelerator programme, which has facilitated the entry of more than 70 Swedish green-tech companies into the Indian market over the past 12 years.

"And just this year, we have conducted five workshops with over 220 delegates from 16 Indian industrial sectors," she said, emphasizing the programme's contributions to clean energy, green hydrogen, and smart grid advancements.

Sweden's Commitment to Sustainability and Carbon Neutrality

Swedish companies operating in India are already playing a crucial role in promoting urban sustainability.

Sven Ostberg, Consul General of Sweden in Mumbai, pointed to examples such as Envac's solid waste management systems in Mumbai and Gujarat, as well as IVL's wastewater treatment plant, which is addressing pollution in the Mithi river.

"We assist these companies through consultancy and arrange study visits to highlight their sustainable practices, which are benefiting millions of Indian households," he said.

Sweden's commitment to carbon neutrality by 2045, according to Kamill, is driven by policies, innovation, and collective responsibility.

"Our strategy includes renewable energy, electrification, sustainable industrial practices, and reforestation," he explained.

The innovative hybrid initiative, which uses green hydrogen in steel production, has the potential to eliminate emissions from one of the world's most carbon-intensive industries, he added. Cultural and business exchanges are also supporting sustainability objectives.

"Swedish companies here focus on people, planet, and profit, collaborating closely with local communities on education and sustainability projects," Ostberg said.