Abstract

Green arbitration is a concept introduced by Lucy Greenwood in 2019, which aims at reducing the carbon footprint caused by international arbitration. A medium-sized international arbitration requires almost 20,000 trees to be planted to offset its carbon footprint emissions. Arbitration has proved to be one step ahead when compared to litigation. However, this comes with a huge price. The Campaign for Greener Arbitration aims at inspiring and encouraging fellow arbitrators to conduct arbitration with a minimum carbon footprint. The Green Protocol, or the Green Pledge, accommodates nine simple but significant changes that can be adopted by arbitrators and other stakeholders. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the trend towards virtual hearings and online proceedings. Through this paper, the author attempts to exhibit the impact of arbitration on the environment. The author endeavours to discuss an unexplored pitfall of arbitration and the importance of recognising the same in India. The paper cites various suggestions and guidelines mentioned in the Green Protocol. The author also gives different insights on how India can deal with arbitration in an environment-friendly manner. Towards the end of the paper, the author suggests practical changes that arbitrators can do to attain carbon neutrality.

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