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“…that the world needs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and reach net-zero emissions by 2050 to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius…”
India is a critical player in the global fight against climate change. As one of the world's largest emitters of greenhouse gasses, the country's actions and policies will have a significant impact on global efforts to limit global warming and address the impacts of climate change. India is currently responsible for approximately 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it the third-largest emitter after China and the United States. However, the country's emissions per capita are significantly lower than those of other major emitters. And, India has long argued that developed countries should bear a greater burden in reducing emissions
India’s Action on climate change ahead of COP29
On April 15, 2023, India urged the G7 countries to take more aggressive action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. India stated that their existing targets were inadequate to prevent global temperatures from rising more than 1.5°C. India's Minister of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, emphasized the critical role of developed countries in addressing the climate crisis. In addition, he highlighted the need for financial and technological assistance to developing countries. The G7 ministers agreed to cooperate on several initiatives to combat climate change. But, critics argue that their efforts are not sufficient to address the scale of the climate crisis. The world needs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and reach net-zero emissions by 2050 to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
Yadav's comments come ahead of the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP29, which will be held in Egypt. The conference will bring together world leaders, scientists, and experts to discuss how to accelerate global efforts to tackle climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
India has set its goal clearly
India has set an ambitious goal of achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, as part of its efforts to address the global climate crisis and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Currently, India's renewable energy capacity stands at 93 GW, including solar, wind, and bioenergy. The government's target has already created more than 1 million jobs in the renewable energy sector. India's efforts are critical due to the projected impacts of climate change on the country, including heat waves, droughts, floods, and cyclones. India has also played a key role in global climate negotiations, advocating for the interests of developing countries.
Various schemes in action
The Indian government has launched multiple initiatives to promote renewable energy, such as the KUSUM scheme and the National Solar Mission. The scheme has already installed 20 GW of solar power capacity ahead of schedule. The government has also taken measures to improve energy efficiency, promote electric vehicles, and phase out old coal-fired power plants. However, challenges remain, including heavy reliance on coal and the need for significant investment and technology transfer. To address these challenges, the government has created the National Renewable Energy Mission and the Green Energy Corridor.
Conclusion
India's leadership on climate action and commitment to renewable energy make it crucial to achieving global climate change targets. Its efforts demonstrate that economic growth and emissions reduction can go hand-in-hand. India's call for more ambitious emissions reduction targets from G7 nations highlights the urgent need for global action. While the G7's commitments are positive, much more is needed to ensure a sustainable future. COP29 presents a critical opportunity for world leaders to take bold and decisive action on climate change.
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