Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupendra Yadav calls for global action to end speciesism and tackle climate change at Teri’s World Sustainable Development Summit

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav emphasised that speciesism, the belief that humans are superior to other species, lies at the root of much of the environmental destruction and climate crises the world is facing today. Drawing parallels to racism, Yadav argued that this prejudice has led to the prioritisation of human needs over the preservation of the planet’s ecosystems and wildlife, resulting in widespread environmental degradation.

“Speciesism is the reason for our current crisis,” Yadav stated. He stressed that a sustainable future requires a shift in thinking that prioritises the preservation of all life forms, not just humanity. The Minister’s remarks echo India’s ethical foundation, referencing the Indian philosophy of ‘Sarve Bhavanam Sukhina’ – the idea that all beings, human and non-human alike, deserve happiness and well-being.

Yadav’s speech also underscored India’s pivotal role in leading the climate agenda for the Global South. He highlighted India’s progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 7.93 per cent in 2020 and pointed to the country’s active involvement in major global initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilience Infrastructure, and the Global Biofuel Alliance.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by climate change, Yadav called for a stronger global commitment to tackle environmental issues, urging developed countries to honor their climate finance commitments. He warned that the current funding frameworks are insufficient to support the needs of developing nations in combating climate impacts, emphasising that the USD 300 billion annual climate finance, adopted at Cop-29 in Baku, is inadequate.

In addition to addressing climate finance, Yadav spoke about the importance of integrating climate resilience and adaptation into development plans. He pointed to India’s efforts in strengthening its long-term low-carbon development strategy and its commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2070.

“We cannot address climate change in isolation. It must be deeply integrated with sustainable development goals,” Yadav said. The Union Minister also called for urgent global cooperation, noting that the current multilateral system is failing to address the interconnected challenges of poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.