The GST involves a two-year review of collective global efforts to achieve the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement, particularly the target of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius compared to the pre-industrial era

At COP28 on Saturday, India’s Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav asserted that equity and climate justice should form the foundation of climate action, emphasising the imperative for developed nations to lead in the fight against climate change. In his national statement during the high-level segment of the conference, Yadav highlighted India’s proactive efforts, surpassing targets outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Yadav proudly noted that India successfully reduced emission intensity relative to GDP by 33 per cent between 2005 and 2019, achieving its 2030 NDC target 11 years ahead of schedule. Additionally, India exceeded expectations in renewable energy, achieving 40 per cent of installed electric capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, surpassing the 2030 target by nine years.

Looking ahead to the Global Stocktake (GST) outcomes, Yadav underscored the importance of resource mobilisation and emphasised the need for new collective, quantified goals aligned with the needs of developing countries. He stressed that equity and climate justice must guide global climate action, with developed nations taking the lead.

The GST involves a two-year review of collective global efforts to achieve the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement, particularly the target of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius compared to the pre-industrial era.

Describing COP28 as a ‘COP of action,’ Yadav celebrated the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund on the first day of proceedings. He highlighted India’s commitment to a sustainable future through initiatives such as the Green Credit Initiative, launched at COP28, which aims to create a global trade forum for environmental programmes.

Yadav reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of the LiFE initiative, focusing on minimising the per capita carbon footprint through mindful utilisation. He noted India’s consistent contributions to climate action, including the upward revision of NDCs and the addition of 100 gigawatts of installed electric capacity, with 80 percent sourced from non-fossil fuel-based resources between 2017 and 2023.

Yadav also highlighted India’s global initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance during the G20 summit.

In his closing appeal, Yadav urged nations to reaffirm their commitment to a greener, cleaner, and healthier planet, emphasising the importance of trust in the principles and clauses of the convention and its Paris Agreement. The annual climate talks under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change are set to conclude on 12 December.

(PTI)