India’s Economic Survey criticize international climate change framework

Source: The post India’s Economic Survey criticize international climate change framework has been created, based on the article “Why Economic Survey argues for climate adaptation, not mitigation” published in “Indian Express” on 25th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Environment- conservation

Context: The article critiques the international climate change framework for its ineffectiveness and inequities. It discusses India’s Economic Survey, which calls for focusing on adaptation and resilience rather than just mitigation. The article also criticizes developed countries for failing to meet emission targets and contributing to global inequities.

For detailed information on Just Transition Framework read this article here

Why is the Current Climate Framework Criticized?

1. Targets Not Met: The international framework has failed to achieve its climate targets. For instance, no targets set under this system have ever been met.
2. Unfair Pressure on Developing Nations: The focus on achieving the 1.5-degree Celsius target imposes undue pressure on developing countries. This pressure diverts resources from improving people’s lives in these nations.
3. Developed Countries’ Failures: Developed countries, especially the U.S., have not met emission reduction goals. In 2019, U.S. emissions were 6% higher than in 1990, and developed countries have not fulfilled their financial or technological commitments to developing nations.
4. Inequitable International System:
5. a) The system often perpetuates the dominance of the rich countries, as seen when the Kyoto Protocol was replaced by the Paris Agreement.
6. b) Scientific models used by the IPCC are criticized for disregarding historical responsibilities and future needs of developing nations.

What Alternatives Does the Economic Survey Propose?

1. The Economic Survey advocates for focusing on adaptation alongside mitigation. It suggests that since the 1.5-degree target will likely be breached, improving resilience and overall well-being is crucial.
2. It proposes incorporating lifestyle and behavioral changes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
3. The Survey argues that adaptation should receive equal importance as mitigation because climate impacts are already unfolding.
4. It challenges the notion that achieving the 1.5-degree target at all costs is necessary, suggesting a warmer world could be more equitable and resilient.
5. The Survey also calls for a shift in India’s energy transition strategy, emphasizing rapid development and adaptation over strict adherence to temperature targets.

How Is India Addressing Climate Change?

1. India’s Economic Survey emphasizes improving climate resilience in infrastructure projects.
2. The Central Vista redevelopment is a significant project, but it remains uncertain if it will be a leading model for climate-friendly buildings.
3. The Smart City plans, started nine years ago, include climate-proofing elements, but many cities are still struggling with sewage management.
4. New railway stations being built are expected to be better than existing ones but may not be the most climate-friendly.
5. India promotes Mission Life, focusing on lifestyle and behavioral changes, but it has not yet become a mass movement.
6. The Survey suggests that current efforts, like these, are not sufficiently fast or comprehensive in addressing climate change.

Question for practice:

Examine how the Economic Survey proposes to address the challenges posed by the current international climate framework.