In recent years, the Indian sustainability startup ecosystem has experienced significant growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences and increasing concerns about pollution and climate change. This shift has led to a surge in innovative startups promoting environmental sustainability. As per the recent data revealed by the government of India in 2023, over 6,600 cleantech startups are operating across 450 districts throughout India, spread over nearly 34 states and union territories.
These startups are on the run to address pressing environmental challenges and develop technologies and strategies contributing towards a greener future. Even though the sustainable startup movement in India is gaining momentum, several challenges persist such as funding access, regulatory barriers, and a lack of consumer awareness. ‘National Pollution Prevention Day’, Delhi-NCR based Green Storytelling Company Key Communications revealed the findings of “Sustaining Sustainability Startups for India’s Pollution Fight” survey. The survey highlighted the significant demands for the fast acceleration of a sustainable startup ecosystem in India.
The survey was conducted among 200 sustainable startups from six different cities, including Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad. Startups from different segments such as clean tech, EV, green hydrogen, solar power, eco-friendly brands, green startups, environment advisories, consultancies, climate change warriors, and green finance companies participated in the survey.
Manish Sharma, co-founder of Key Communications, emphasized, “This survey highlighted the necessity of consumer awareness through various channels such as educators, researchers, media, awards, competitions, and events. Being a Green Public Relations Agency, I believe that consumers’ access to information about eco-friendly products and their impact can significantly contribute towards a sustainable future through their purchasing decisions.”
He added as the nation grapples with pressing environmental challenges, these startups are seeking greater financial backing and policy initiatives to help drive innovation and growth within the sustainability landscape. This growing demand highlights the critical need for collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector to create a more sustainable future for India.
To effectively address pollution—whether air, water, or soil, India needs to develop a robust and sustainable startup ecosystem. The rising pollution levels are posing a big health threat to Indian citizens especially residents of metros. To combat this threat, the country needs sustainability startups to take the next big leap. One of the leading public relations agencies in Delhi NCR, Key Communications has launched Key Comm Green. This venture will contribute significantly to India’s net-zero goal through its GREEN storytelling and customised PR offerings. Their recent survey shows that over 60% of sustainability startups in India expect more government support to fuel funding in the segment. Despite the rising demand for sustainability, green research & development (R&D), over one-third of businesses across the globe are facing the issue of insufficient financial resources to innovate. And four in ten are struggling to meet the high up-front costs required for sustainable innovation.
In 2023, India has made significant progress toward a greener future and sustainable development, aiming for a Net Zero Goal by 2070. However, the survey estimates 20% underscored the requirement of collaboration among various stakeholders in achieving net zero goals and boosting the sustainable startup landscape. Key findings indicate that government support, robust infrastructure, and adequate financial backing are vital for success. Respondents identified the government’s role as the key to creating a conducive environment for startups through incentives, streamlined regulations, and increased investment in research and development. Notably, policies such as the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme have been recognized as instrumental in promoting electric mobility.