MUMBAI: Mindspace Business Parks REIT (BSE: 543217 | NSE: MINDSPACE) (‘Mindspace REIT’), owner and developer of quality Grade A office portfolio located in four key office markets of India, announces its partnership with the Global Network for Zero (GNFZ), the world’s premier independent net zero certification body. This partnership marks a major milestone in Mindspace REIT’s dedication to environmental sustainability, advancing its goal to certify the entire portfolio as net zero by 2042.

 The certification process will begin with the evaluation of one of the buildings at Mindspace Airoli West, situated near the vibrant residential micro-markets of Thane and Navi Mumbai. Already a ‘Platinum’ certified building under LEED v4.1 O+M, it exemplifies high-performance building standards and efficient systems. To align with the GNFZ’s net zero transformation strategy, this building will reduce Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions through energy efficiency upgrades, green power procurement, and green leases for occupants.

This new partnership builds upon Mindspace REIT’s longstanding commitment to sustainable practices which has resulted in:

• 99.9% of the REIT portfolio is green certified of which 22 million sq. ft of leasable area is platinum certified
• Successful implementation of an Infrastructure Monitoring & Operations Centre (IMOC) for enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact
• 30-45% margin for potable water savings across the green building portfolio
• 30% more fresh air than what is mandated by ASHRAE standards
• Over 80% of construction waste is intelligently reused across green buildings

Ramesh Nair, CEO, Mindspace REIT said in a statement “Partnering with the Global Network for Zero is a key milestone in our sustainability journey. Their independent certification aligns with our goals and helps us accelerate our journey to net zero. This partnership strengthens our commitment to sustainable excellence for our occupants, stakeholders, and communities. We’re excited to lead the way towards a net zero future, making a significant impact on emission reduction and environmental stewardship.”

Mahesh Ramanujam, GNFZ CEO and Co-Founder, adds, “Mindspace REIT has been at the forefront of remarkable leadership in sustainability. I have been an admirer and supporter of their efforts for many years now to ensure environmental consciousness while retaining the top position in offering world-class commercial spaces for the biggest multinationals. I am honored and excited to contribute to their next critical phase of net zero emissions for one of their buildings at Mindspace Business Parks with Global Network for Zero. It is a massive undertaking — but with the leadership of Ramesh Nair and others who are making the necessary strides forward in this business, we finally not only have hope, but tangible commitments towards cutting down emissions in the real estate sector that contributes a major part to global emissions.”

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NEW DELHI: As India ramps up efforts to decarbonize its rapidly growing infrastructure of buildings, the Mahindra Group, one of India’s leading industrial enterprises, and Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI), the global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, announced a first of its kind Net Zero Buildings Initiative to decarbonize India’s commercial, urban residential and public buildings. The joint initiative will simplify access to key information and resources to help organizations start their net zero buildings journeys.

“At Mahindra, we strongly believe in operating as a ‘Planet Positive’ organization. The group has undertaken multiple initiatives to decarbonize our operational infrastructure—leading to both financially and environmentally value accretive outcomes. We also understand the critical role of collaboration in accelerating a sustainable future, and hence join hands with Johnson Controls, leaders in net zero building solutions, to share our learnings and best practices with everyone” said Abanti Sankaranarayanan, Chief Group Public Affairs Officer and Group Executive Board Member.

According to the International Energy Agency, three-quarters of India’s anticipated 2040 buildings have yet to be built. With the sector accounting for 20% of emissions and more than 30% of energy consumption in the country^[1], the transition to smart and sustainable buildings is becoming an environmental and economic imperative.

“With India on the cusp of a building revolution, now is the time to actualize the benefits of smart and green buildings for India’s economy and society,” said George Oliver, Chairman and CEO of Johnson Controls. “The joining together of our two companies to develop this unique initiative is a natural fit—leveraging Johnson Controls’ leadership in smart building technology and Mahindra’s renowned multi-industry expertise and reach. We believe it will help guide and inspire a movement toward a more sustainable built environment, both in India and beyond.”

The Net Zero Buildings Initiative—comprising a cost-free, all-in-one toolkit and training—will help building and facility owners learn about best practices of sustainable buildings, implement tools to assess building parameters, identify and implement conservation measures, and understand building regulations in India, available incentives, technology, financing models, and more.

“This collaboration is a statement of intent from the construction industry to support the Indian government’s journey towards the low-carbon pathway of development. I’d like to congratulate the Mahindra group and Johnson Controls International for providing a much needed momentum to this movement. Built infrastructure is responsible for 40% of the global energy related emissions today, and most of the built environment in India’s cities, is yet to be constructed. It is absolutely imperative that we integrate sustainability and climate resilience into the life cycle of the built environment. Sustainability has been an article of faith for this government, and no developing country has ever steered away from the high carbon path of development as profoundly as India has done.” said, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister for Housing & Urban Affairs & Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas

Investing in energy efficient infrastructure can potentially reduce electricity consumption by 40-60% compared to conventional buildings. According to India Energy Outlook 2021, even a 30% improvement in energy efficiency from buildings can potentially save ~250 TWh of electricity by 2030, which means significant electrical energy could be given back to the grid to further fuel economic growth.

Across Mahindra Group, Mahindra Holidays has increased energy efficiency by more than 50% across resorts, Mahindra Auto & Farm sector has increased energy productivity by more than 90% across factories, and Mahindra Lifespaces launched Mahindra Eden, India’s first Net Zero Energy Residential building, that is expected to save over 1.8M kWh electricity annually. Similarly, Mahindra Logistics is investing to build energy efficient warehouses.

As part of the initiative, Mahindra and Johnson Controls will work closely with Indian national and state governments, think-tanks and industry associations, providing greater visibility on building data to aid in climate progress reporting and formulating strategies and frameworks.

Mahindra and Johnson Controls plan to roll out the initiative in March 2024 through virtual and in-person workshop sessions as part of a year-long roadshow. To learn more about the Net Zero Buildings Initiative, visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/en_in/openblue/india-net-zero-buildings-initiative.

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NAGPUR: The Honourable Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, Shri Nitin Gadkari Ji inaugurated India’s first Shashwat Bharat Setu – Winning Net Zero exhibit developed by The Eco Factory Foundation (TEFF), in Nagpur on Sunday. This Centre provides a cutting-edge experience dedicated to showcasing sustainable lifestyles, solutions, and practices from people to the planet that can lead to Net Zero India.

Anand Chordia, the founder of The Eco Factory Foundation, explained various concepts like the ‘waste to wealth, water management, energy conservation, and how to reduce your carbon footprint, the importance of the circular economy, achieving sustainability in rural, urban, industrial and individual sectors, and how to become Net Zero at large.

While addressing the gathering, Gadkari Ji congratulated and praised the unique initiative, stating, “Many congratulations to The Eco Factory Foundation for putting up such an exceptional exhibit. The Shashwat Bharat Setu has touched upon very crucial points that will revitalize our environment and in turn our planet. The Shashwat Bharat Setu exemplifies the concept of ‘waste to wealth,’ providing sustainable solutions that benefit the environment and create livelihood opportunities for communities.” He further expressed his hope that the center would inspire the nation to contribute to making India a Net Zero country.

Founder of TEFF, Anand Chordia, reflected on this historic moment, stating, “The development of Shashwat Bharat Setu – winning Net Zero Exhibit – was driven by our intention to create awareness and inspire everyone to adopt net zero and sustainable lifestyle with ease. I firmly believe that the Shashwat Bharat Setu is the true bridge that will guide India to achieve net zero. We hope that the center reaches and inspires many to join us on this journey towards a sustainable future.”

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“Suhana Spices Warehouse follows the basic principles of Reduce, Regenerate, Renew, and Repurpose and stands completely on renewable sources of energy generation, runs 100% on solar power for building and process requirements”, expressed Anand Chordia, Director, of Technology & Innovation, Suhana Spices, and Founder, The Eco Factory Foundation (TEFF).

Anand Chordia, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Receiving the Net Zero Energy Certification from IGBC is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainability. All our current and future projects shall stand as a model for responsible and eco-conscious development, showcasing how innovation and environmental consciousness can coexist seamlessly.”

Such infrastructure development will help to achieve Net Zero India very soon.

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• Second consecutive time: ASUS recognized as a Climate Leader Asia-Pacific for the second consecutive time, showcasing its strong climate commitments
• Low carbon product innovation: Focused on product carbon footprint verification, carbon reduction strategies, and carbon neutral products
• Sustainable all the way: ASUS invests in products that keep sustainability in mind, with ExpertBook B9 and Zenbook S 13 OLED as perfect examples

INDIA: ASUS today announced that it has been recognized, for the second consecutive time, as part of the prestigious Climate Leaders Asia-Pacific. This 2023 recognition comes from the joint efforts of the Financial Times and Statista, who have acknowledged ASUS for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Within the ranking this year, ASUS has emerged as a leader in a number of areas related to environmental sustainability efforts. For example, the company has shown its strong commitment to sustainability by ranking in the top 15 in terms of the total reduction of core emissions and in the top 25 for the reduction of core emissions intensity. This recognition showcases the company’s relentless pursuit of sustainability and reinforces its position as a responsible corporate citizen actively contributing to mitigating climate change.

As a company, ASUS takes immense pride in its dedication to sustainability and continuously seeks new and innovative ways to reduce its environmental impact. Guided by four pillars — climate action, circular economy, responsible manufacturing, and value creation — ASUS has set science-based targets and implemented a three-stage approach focusing on climate action. These three stages focus on enhancing energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy usage, and investing in innovative, green technologies. This award is a testament to the company’s ongoing efforts to combat climate change and foster sustainable practices within the technology industry. By pushing boundaries and driving innovation, ASUS strives to create a cleaner, greener future.

One of the key targets for ASUS is to achieve 100% renewable energy usage across its global operations by 2035. By 2050, the company aims to have invested in innovative technologies to eliminate its remaining carbon emissions and gradually work towards achieving net zero. The company’s focus on expanding its range of eco-friendly products has also played a crucial role in its journey toward a sustainable future.

To further its net-zero roadmap, ASUS conducts low-carbon product innovation by focusing on conducting carbon footprint verification, carbon reduction strategies, and building carbon-neutral products. To achieve this, ASUS focuses on three key steps. Firstly, calculating the product’s lifecycle using international standards and third-party verification, as well as publishing a certified carbon footprint report. Secondly, employing eco-friendly materials, energy-saving design, and carbon reduction strategies within its supply chain to decrease the product’s carbon footprint. Finally, offsetting the remaining emissions with premium nature-based carbon credits that are verified by a third party for transparency and credibility.

Major examples of these endeavors include ExpertBook B9 (B9400), the world’s first commercial carbon footprint and carbon neutral-verified laptop, and Zenbook S 13 OLED (UX5304), the world’s slimmest OLED laptop, which is also carbon neutral. Beyond their sleek design, high performance, and ultra-portability, these devices emphatically keep sustainability in mind. For the second year, the Financial Times and Statista have collaborated to create the Climate Leaders Asia-Pacific 2023 list. Using extensive research and analysis, the list recognizes companies that excelled in reducing their core emissions intensity, specifically their Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions relative to revenue, between 2016 and 2021. These companies also demonstrated their commitment to addressing climate change by engaging in initiatives such as collaborating with the CDP (Climate Disclosure Project) and SBTi (Science Based Targets Initiative), as well as ensuring transparency in reporting their Scope 3 emissions. Other additional criteria have been added this year,

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The MoU was signed in the presence of N Chandrasekaran, Executive Chairman, Tata Sons, and Tom Linebarger, Executive Chairman, Cummins Inc., on November 14, 2022, at the Tata Sons Headquarters – Bombay House, in Mumbai, India. Senior officials and dignitaries from Cummins India and Tata Motors were also present during the MoU signing ceremony.

On this occasion, Mr. N Chandrasekaran, Executive Chairman, of Tata Sons and Chairman, of Tata Motors said, “The shift to sustainable mobility is irreversible and Tata Motors is committed to being amongst the leaders of green mobility. We are taking definitive steps to drive this global megatrend forward in each of our businesses. Working with partners who share the same vision is essential for this transition and we are delighted to strengthen our long-standing relationship with Cummins for their next-generation, hydrogen propulsion systems. We are excited to indigenize the cutting-edge hydrogen technology to offer our customers an expanded portfolio of green and future-ready commercial vehicles, accelerate the adoption of sustainable mobility in the country, and contribute towards India’s ‘net zero’ carbon emission goals.”

Commenting on the strategic collaboration, Mr. Tom Linebarger, Executive Chairman, Cummins Inc., said, “Climate change is the existential crisis of our time, and this collaboration between Cummins and Tata Motors accelerates our ability to address it. Cummins is well-positioned to help our customers successfully and seamlessly transition to economically viable decarbonized solutions. Cummins and Tata Motors have a strong history of partnership, and the next step into low and zero-emissions technologies is an exciting development for zero-emissions transportation. Our collaboration in India is an important milestone for Cummins and Tata as we work together to accelerate the shift to a carbon-free economy and a zero-emissions world. We strongly believe that this collaboration is a significant step forward to achieving India’s Green Hydrogen Mission. I am excited to enable powering a cleaner and greener India.”

In 1993, the two engineering companies came together to fulfill their goal of introducing best-in-class cleaner vehicle technology solutions to the Indian market – Tata Motors to deliver best-in-class mobility solutions in India and Cummins to power that vision through their products and services. Driven by a shared ideology, common vision, and values of Integrity, Teamwork, and Excellence, this partnership has grown from strength to strength over the last three decades. This MoU further solidifies their association and is aligned with India’s vision of ‘Energy for Sustainable Growth’ and achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2070. India will be one of the first markets to receive Cummins’ Hydrogen engines, an important technology to help drive decarbonization.

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