India recorded a 7.93% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions in 2020, as revealed in its 4th Biennial Update Report to the UNFCCC. This reduction aligns with India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and reflects its initiatives in sustainable development, particularly in the energy sector, urban planning, and innovative tree planting methods. The actions taken underscore India’s dedication to addressing climate change while ensuring equitable development.
India has achieved a significant milestone in its climate action efforts by recording a 7.93% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2020 compared to the previous year. This achievement, detailed in the country’s 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), underscores India’s commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience, as articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With a pledge to reach net-zero emissions by 2070, India is aligning its national strategies with global climate commitments while taking into account its developmental needs and unique circumstances.
The reduction in emissions is primarily attributed to the energy sector, which constitutes about 75.66% of the nation’s total GHG emissions. The report reveals that, excluding land use, India’s emissions amounted to approximately 2,959 million tonnes of CO2 equivalence in 2020. This reduction is part of a broader national strategy aiming to decouple economic growth from carbon emissions and promote equitable low-carbon development. India continues to submit updates on its climate commitments and actions every two years to ensure transparency and accountability.
India’s approach involves various strategic transitions aimed at fostering low-carbon development across multiple sectors, including electricity generation, transportation, and urban planning. The government has initiated several climate action programs, showcasing a commitment to combating air pollution, enhancing green cover through forest conservation projects, and bolstering coastal ecosystem resilience. Notable initiatives include the national clean air program and afforestation efforts under the National Afforestation Programme (NAP).
Additionally, the country is actively promoting innovative tree planting techniques, such as the Miyawaki method, especially in preparations for significant events like the Mahakumbh 2025. This reflects a broader integration of environmental stewardship with cultural and spiritual practices, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy environment for future generations. Through these concerted efforts, India is paving the way towards a climate-resilient future while continuing to address its pressing developmental priorities.
The backdrop of this report highlights India’s ongoing struggle against climate change, which poses severe risks due to its vast population and developmental aspirations. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which became effective in 1994, aims to stabilize greenhouse gases and facilitate international cooperation. In this context, countries are required to submit their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, to limit global temperature rise and reduce emissions. India’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2070 signifies a pivotal strategy aligning national policies with global climate goals, recognizing its unique socio-economic challenges and historical contributions to global warming.
In conclusion, India is making significant strides towards achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future, marked by a 7.93% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Through its Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategies and innovative initiatives, such as the Miyawaki tree planting approach, India is demonstrating its commitment to climate action while balancing developmental needs. These proactive measures not only aim to mitigate climate change impacts but also enhance the country’s resilience against future environmental challenges. India’s efforts signify a meaningful contribution to the global fight against climate change, fostering a harmonious integration of ecological integrity and economic growth.
Original Source: pib.gov.in
