In anticipation of the upcoming COP28 in Dubai, the United Nations Development Programme has stated that India is poised to advocate for a “significant change” in the global strategy for addressing climate-related issues.

 Ashish Chaturvedi, Head of Action for Climate and Environment at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in India, emphasised the necessity to shift the focus from countries or governments to include individuals at the core of collective efforts to combat climate change.

Speaking on behalf of UNDP India, he expressed India’s aspiration for a substantial shift in how the world addresses climate-related challenges. Similar to India’s G20 presidency, the critical intersections of climate, health, and gender are likely to be highlighted at COP28, which commences on 30 November , 2023.

Chaturvedi highlighted that the concept underpinning the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) movement, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in October 2022, is foundational. LiFE promotes an environmentally friendly way of living, encouraging the use of fewer resources, mindful consumption, and a focus on health.

At COP28, the primary areas of focus will encompass mitigation, adaptation, loss and damages, and finance, Chaturvedi added. India’s advocacy extends beyond lifestyle changes, calling for an expanded scope in the Loss and Damages Fund (LDF) and urging inclusivity for developing nations. The LDF aims to provide financial assistance to nations most vulnerable and impacted by the effects of climate change.

COP28 will also serve as a platform for India to showcase its commitment to achieving ambitious renewable energy targets by 2030, according to Chaturvedi. He emphasised that India is on track to triple its renewable energy targets by 2030, a noteworthy accomplishment that warrants global recognition.

Chaturvedi noted that the Global Stocktake will be a key agenda item at COP28, marking the conclusion of its first two-year cycle. The Global Stocktake allows countries and stakeholders to assess collective progress towards meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement, evaluating efforts to reduce emissions, build resilience, and secure financing to combat climate change.

The focus of COP28 extends to addressing gaps highlighted in the Global Stocktake. Chaturvedi emphasised the urgency of climate action in the food systems, echoing the confirmation from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) that even the immediate elimination of fossil fuel emissions would not be sufficient to achieve the 1.5°C target.

COP28 is scheduled to take place from 30 November  to 12 December , 2023, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with Prime Minister Modi expected to attend the annual summit.

(Inputs from PTI)