Frugal Climate Solutions for a Net Zero India: Integrating ESG, Innovation, and Inclusive Policies

M. Zaheer Ahmed

M. Zaheer Ahmed Head, PG Department of Commerce and Research, Dr. Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi Government Institute for Post Graduate Studies and Research, Karaikal, India

Keywords: Frugal Innovation, Net Zero India, ESG Frameworks, Inclusive Climate Policy, Circular Economy, Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

India wants to achieve net zero emissions by the year 2070. This is a major challenge. It is also a great chance to build a better future. Big projects and costly technologies are not the only way to reach this goal. This paper shows another path. It uses frugal innovation, which means doing more with less. It connects Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ideas with local action. It highlights community-led solutions and low-cost technologies. Real examples from Indian villages are shared. These examples include solar power, waste reuse, and local planning. They help reduce pollution. They also create jobs and improve lives. The paper presents a model. It is called the Three-Pillar Frugal Climate Action Framework. It combines ESG principles, frugal solutions, and community participation. This model is simple and easy to follow. Other countries in the Global South can learn from this. They can use this approach to build a greener and fairer future. Climate action must be low-cost, people-centered, and easy to scale.