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A stop sign: India must raise its ambition on reduction in carbon emissions
Why in news?
- International Energy Agency found that India’s carbon emissions grew by 4.8% during 2018, in spite of the national focus on climate change in energy policy.
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- Background:(1) There is wide recognition of the fact that Indians are not historically responsible for the problem.(2) It is the rich nations led by the U.S. that have pumped in the stock of carbon dioxide linked to extreme climate impacts being witnessed around the globe.(3) As the IEA points out, India’s emissions have grown, but per capita they remain less than 40% of the global average.
- What is the status to handle global climate change?(1) Principle of common but differentiated responsibilities is central to the UNFCCC.(2) Equity among nations is therefore at the centre of the discussion on energy emissions.(3) Universal challenge of climate change has grown to such proportions that urgent action to sharply cut carbon emissions is crucial, and all countries, including India, must act quickly.(4) Intensive measures in key sectors will help meet the national pledge under the Paris Agreement to cut energy intensity of GDP by 33-35% by 2030, over 2005 levels.
- Challenges:(1) Rooftop solar photovoltaics:
- In spite of low prices and rising efficiency, the potential of rooftop solar photovoltaics remains poorly utilised.
- It is time State power utilities are made responsible for defined rates of growth in the installation of rooftop systems.(1) India’s record in promoting green transport has been uninspiring, and emissions from fossil fuels and the resulting pollution are rising rapidly.(2) Coal power plants: A second priority area is the cleaning up of coal power plants, some of which are young and have decades of use ahead.
- Way ahead:(1) Cleaning coal plant: It should be aided by the UNFCCC, which can help transfer the best technologies for carbon capture, use and storage, and provide financial linkage from the $100 billion annual climate fund proposed for 2020.(2)Electric vehicles: The Centre’s plan to expand electric mobility through financial incentives for buses, taxis and two-wheelers needs to be pursued vigorously, especially in the large cities.
Source
The hindu