
India’s commitment to combating climate change has seen significant progress, as revealed in the country’s 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) submitted to the UNFCCC. The report highlights a 7.93% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2020 compared to 2019, reflecting India’s drive toward a sustainable and climate-resilient future.
Key Highlights:
- Emission Statistics: Total GHG emissions in 2020 (excluding LULUCF) were 2,959 million tonnes CO2e. Including LULUCF, net emissions stood at 2,437 million tonnes CO2e.
- Sectoral Contribution: The energy sector accounted for 75.66% of emissions, while land use changes contributed to the sequestration of approximately 522 million tonnes of CO2e, reducing total emissions by 22%.
- Global Comparison: India contributes 4% to global cumulative GHG emissions while supporting 17% of the world’s population.
Strategic Climate Actions:
India’s climate strategy under the Paris Agreement focuses on sustainable development and equity. The country aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 through its Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), which includes:
- Low-Carbon Energy Systems: Transitioning to renewable and low-carbon electricity generation.
- Efficient Transport Systems: Creating integrated and inclusive low-carbon transport networks.
- Sustainable Urbanization: Enhancing energy efficiency and resource optimization in urban planning.
- Innovative Industrial Solutions: Decoupling economic growth from emissions.
- CO2 Removal Technologies: Developing engineering solutions for carbon sequestration.
- Forest and Vegetation Enhancement: Increasing forest cover to support socio-economic and ecological goals.
Notable Initiatives:
India has implemented several measures to bolster its climate resilience:
- Afforestation Programs: Initiatives like the Green Credit Program and the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign promote reforestation and eco-restoration.
- Urban Adaptation: Policies under AMRUT and the Smart Cities Mission integrate climate adaptation in urban planning.
- Air Quality Improvements: Programs like the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aim to reduce urban air pollution.