Challenges and opportunities of sustainable low carbon green growth strategies for mega cities: A case study of Kolkata

Megacities in India are historically the major economic growth centers and Kolkata is the oldest and the most densely populated mega city. An assessment of sustainable development challenges and possible green growth strategies give rise to some interesting insights that are generalisable as well. Sustainable development priority assessment for Kolkata district brings forth the issues which go beyond just green growth indicators. So in this paper we start with flagging broader multidimensional larger challenges of sustainable development based on empirical findings using composite sustainable development index. We realize this is important for final negotiation towards implementation with city-scale development decision makers. Second part of the study presents a well defined boundary for green growth. Using sector wise data base available from official sources results are derived to show which economic sector has how much green growth investment potential compared to a baseline. The potential assessment is based on effective and efficient technology deployment scope. However, case studies on behavioral response also highlight the scope of take back effect due to behavioral response parameter of rebound effect. Third part summarizes practical issues in grabbing the opportunities for green growth in a fast growing developing country context.