Urgent Call to Action: Sonam Wangchuk Warns of Climate Perils in the Himalayas at HRS Conference at IIT Delhi
-Scaling solutions for climate change; Himalayan Rocket Stove hosts an insightful conference
New Delhi : Himalayan Rocket Stove (HRS), renowned for its innovative and sustainable heating solutions for the remote regions of the Himalayas, successfully hosted a conference on “Scaling Solutions for Addressing Climate Change Impacts in the Himalayas and Beyond” at the Research and Innovation Park (RNI) – IIT Delhi today. The event brought together key stakeholders, experts, and innovators to discuss and explore effective strategies for combating climate change in the Himalayan region and beyond.
The conference featured keynote speeches from prominent figures, including Mr Sonam Wangchuk, an Indian engineer and education reformist; Ms Smita Rakesh from Social Alpha; Mr Russel Collins from Himalayan Rocket Stove; and Mr Ajay Muttreja, a strategic advisor. Their insights and expertise set the tone for a productive and enlightening discussion.
Russel Collins, Founder of Himalayan Rocket Stove, emphasized the organization’s commitment to scaling its impact through innovative solutions. He stated- “Our aim at HRS is to scale innovative solutions that address climate change impacts effectively. This conference has been pivotal in discussing strategies to enhance impact and expand our reach, ensuring that our clean energy and sustainability efforts make a meaningful difference in the Himalayas and beyond.”
During the session, several interactive sessions took place, including panel discussions and workshops, which deliberated upon the essential topics related to climate change. Experts presented innovations in climate change mitigation, showcasing advanced technologies aimed at reducing carbon footprints and boosting sustainability in the Himalayas.
Mr Sonam Wangchuk emphasized the urgent need for scalable solutions, stating, “The impacts of climate change are more pronounced in the Himalayan region due to its unique geography and ecology. We must develop and implement solutions that are not only effective but also sustainable and scalable.”
Additionally, sessions on collaborative efforts highlighted successful case studies of cooperation between organizations, governments, and communities. Discussions on scaling impact provided actionable insights into the practical challenges and opportunities for advancing climate solutions, equipping stakeholders with valuable strategies for effective climate action.
Smita Rakesh highlighted the importance of innovation in addressing climate change. “At Social Alpha, we believe innovative technologies and collaborative efforts are key to sustainable development. The work being done by Himalayan Rocket Stove is a testament to how innovative solutions can bring about significant positive change,” she remarked.
To meet the cultural and practical needs of Himalayan households, HRS introduced the Eco1 Rocket Stove, successfully deploying over 12,000 units across the Himalayan belt since its inception. The Eco1 Rocket Stove is designed to reduce fuel consumption by up to 50%, significantly lowering emissions and improving air quality. Recently validated by the Gold Standard for carbon trading, HRS plans to leverage the increased revenue to make these stoves more affordable for vulnerable communities.
Ajay Muttreja emphasized the strategic importance of such initiatives, saying, “Scaling impactful solutions requires a strategic approach that involves multiple stakeholders. The efforts of HRS exemplify how strategic collaboration can lead to meaningful and lasting change, ensuring that effective climate solutions reach those who need them most.”
The conference concluded with a refreshment, allowing attendees to network, share ideas, and discuss potential collaborations. The informal setting fostered further engagement and discussion on the day’s topics.
Himalayan Rocket Stove’s successful conference underscores its on-going commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and addressing climate change impacts. With a vision to become a leading provider of clean biomass combustion solutions, HRS continues to innovate and develop accessible solutions for communities in the Himalayas and beyond.