Mahindra first Indian firm to join green inititative “EP100’

Automobile major Mahindra & Mahindra has become the first Indian company to join a global energy campaign led by an international non-profit group that will work with the world's most influential businesses in setting commitments to double their energy productivity.

By signing up to 'EP100' campaign led by 'The Climate Group', the world's largest manufacturer of tractors has committed to doubling its energy productivity by 2030, a core requirement for any business signing on to the campaign.

"Sustainability is an integral part of Mahindra's approach to business. By signing up for EP100, we are making a significant commitment to doubling our energy productivity by 2030 on a baseline of 2005, and hope to make a strong contribution towards achieving the climate goals agreed upon at COP21. We hope many other corporations will become a part of this campaign," M&M executive director Pawan Goenka said.

The announcement comes a day before Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra represents the corporate world at the high-level signing ceremony of the historic Paris climate change agreement at the United Nations on Friday.

Mahindra will be among the dignitaries, including UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, French President Francois Hollande, President of the General Assembly Mogens Lykketoft and UN Messenger of Peace Oscar-winner Leonardo DiCaprio, who will deliver remarks at the opening of the signing ceremony.

The Climate Group's India executive director Krishnan Pallassana said EP100 aims to support businesses to help achieve and implement bold climate targets.

"We are witnessing a global clean revolution that calls for a paradigm shift in energy generation and consumption; doing more with less energy simply is the way forward to a sustainable future," he said.

He expressed hope that Mahindra's decision to join the campaign will inspire other companies in India to include "energy productivity targets as part of a new 'norm' for global business.