India’s Commitment to Climate Action and Sustainability: 7.93% Drop in GHG Emissions

India stands at a pivotal moment in its journey toward sustainable development. The nation, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems, is also grappling with the pressing challenges of climate change. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the importance of sustainable development, drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s vision. As the world faces rising temperatures and environmental degradation, India has made significant strides in its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving a net-zero future by 2070. This article explores India’s climate action initiatives, its progress in emission reductions, and the strategies it is implementing to ensure a sustainable and low-carbon future.

India’s Climate Action under the UNFCCC

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) plays a crucial role in global climate governance. Established in 1994, the UNFCCC aims to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations and promote international cooperation on climate change. In 2015, during the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris, 195 countries adopted the Paris Agreement. This landmark accord seeks to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C. As part of its commitment, India submitted its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, outlining its climate targets.

India’s commitment to climate action is evident in its Biennial Update Reports (BURs), submitted every two years to the UNFCCC. These reports detail the country’s greenhouse gas inventories, mitigation actions, and the support received for emission reduction efforts. The latest report, BUR-4, highlights a 7.93% reduction in GHG emissions in 2020 compared to 2019. This reduction showcases India’s dedication to a sustainable and climate-resilient future, despite its developmental challenges and the need for economic growth.

Emission Reductions and Climate Commitments

India’s BUR-4, submitted on December 30, 2024, reveals significant progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The report indicates that India’s total emissions in 2020 were 2,959 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent, excluding Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF). When including LULUCF, net emissions were reported at 2,437 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent. The energy sector emerged as the largest contributor to emissions, accounting for 75.66% of the total. However, India’s efforts in land use and forestry sequestered approximately 522 million tonnes of CO2, effectively reducing 22% of the country’s total emissions.

These achievements reflect India’s commitment to addressing climate change while considering its unique circumstances. Despite contributing only 4% of cumulative global GHG emissions from 1850 to 2019, India faces significant challenges due to its large population and developmental needs. The country is determined to pursue low-carbon pathways while ensuring energy access and security for all sectors of the economy. This balanced approach is crucial for safeguarding development gains and ensuring future growth.

India’s Path to Sustainable and Low-Carbon Growth

India’s Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS) outline a sustainable path forward in addressing climate change. The LT-LEDS involves seven key strategic transitions aimed at promoting low-carbon growth while enhancing climate resilience. These strategies include transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable urban development.

Despite its minimal contribution to global warming, India recognizes the urgent need for adaptation strategies to combat climate change impacts. The country is highly vulnerable to climate change due to its diverse geography and socio-economic conditions. Therefore, India is committed to building climate resilience through innovative solutions and sustainable practices.

The government has launched various initiatives to tackle environmental challenges. These include afforestation programs, urban climate adaptation measures, air pollution control initiatives, and coastal ecosystem conservation efforts. By integrating adaptation measures into urban planning and promoting sustainable practices, India aims to create a low-carbon development pathway that benefits both the environment and its citizens.

Climate Action Initiatives for Carbon Neutrality

India has proactively undertaken numerous initiatives to address environmental challenges and work towards carbon neutrality. Key measures include:

  1. Forest Land Diversion & Mitigation Measures: The government addresses forest fragmentation during land diversion approvals and mandates compensatory afforestation for non-forestry land use. Campaigns like “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” promote tree planting nationwide.
  2. Urban Climate Adaptation & Low-Carbon Development: The LT-LEDS emphasizes integrating adaptation measures into urban planning policies. Sustainable urban development initiatives include the Smart Cities Mission and the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation.
  3. Air Pollution Control & Clean Air Initiatives: The National Clean Air Programme aims to improve air quality in 131 cities through city-specific action plans. Funding for these initiatives is mobilized through various schemes, including the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles.
  4. Coastal Ecosystem Conservation & Resilience: Financial assistance is provided to coastal states for mangrove conservation and integrated coastal zone management plans. The Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes program focuses on restoring mangroves across coastal states.
  5. Regulatory Measures for Climate Resilience: The Coastal Regulation Zone Notifications enhance climate resilience by managing critical ecosystems like mangroves and coral reefs.Through these initiatives, India is adopting innovative methods to enhance green cover and reduce carbon emissions. The Miyawaki technique for tree planting at the Mahakumbh 2025 exemplifies the fusion of spiritual practices with environmental responsibility, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for millions of devotees.

Source link


Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.

Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button