Development can coexist with concern for the environment: UNEP executive director Erik Solheim

Q: What are the key issues you are focusing on in India?

India is hosting the World Environment Day on June 5, so this is a precursor to that. I'd like to focus on plastic pollution which is a huge problem everywhere, including in the Pacific and the Arctic. This vast amount of plastic is moving along with ocean currents and needs to be addressed. In India, elephants and other animals die because of plastic consumption, so it's a big concern. The prime minister's campaign to clean India, clean the Ganga and the move to improve air quality are the big green issues here and we hope to help with these. We are also launching the 'Sustainable India' investment facility in Andhra Pradesh to turn six million people engaged in farming into green, natural farmers.

Q: Can India afford to make environment a priority when a majority of its population is so poor?

We must move beyond the old-fashioned development versus environment debate. Andhra Pradesh, for instance, has such high economic growth and simultaneously they are focusing on tree planting and installing solar energy. So it's clear-you can have development and create a positive impact on the environment at the same time. China is turning its environment around and India can do the same. When it comes to renewable energy, the price of solar is a key factor because it can compete with coal and is much better for the environment and health.

Q: What role will renewable energy play in this?

Energy is the key to all problems. Shortage of power is a big concern in India as it makes everything much harder. Every economic activity needs electricity, but by using wind, solar [energy] in villages and by setting up bigger grids, there will be enormous opportunities for jobs and going green.

Q: How should we tackle the pollution problem?

Till a few years ago, no one here realised there was a problem, but now it has to be handled urgently. A key issue is agricultural waste, so it has to be turned into an economic opportunity. One needs to have a dialogue with the private sector. The farmer will be thrilled if he gets a small fee to take care of the stubble. In Delhi, electrical mobility is key and the footprint of the metro needs to be expanded too. With the right financial package, the right incentives, anything can be done.