Source: The post India’s challenges at the CoP-28 has been created on the article “CoP-28: Let local climate actions outdo our global commitments” published in “Live mints” on 7th December 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper 3- Economic development- Infrastructure (Energy)
Environment- Conservation
News: The article talks about India’s challenges at the CoP-28 meeting in Dubai. It focuses on India’s struggle to balance coal use, renewable energy growth, and health sector improvements. The article also discusses India’s efforts in promoting sustainable behaviors and electric vehicles, and the need for global climate justice.
Background
At CoP 28, developed countries were criticized for not meeting their climate commitments. Developing countries, especially India, face pressure to lead in climate action. India was specifically noted for not signing pledges to triple its renewable energy by 2030 and double energy efficiency, as well as for not joining the Declaration on Climate and Health.
For information on CoP-28 read here
What are the India’s challenges at the CoP-28 meeting?
Balancing Coal and Renewable Energy with Renewable Energy: India’s plan to increase coal production to over 1 billion tonnes by 2023-24 contrasts with its commitment to enhance renewable energy (RE) to 450GW by 2030.
Phase-Down of Coal Power: India faces the challenge of reducing coal power, which currently accounts for 75% of its electricity, in line with renewable energy and energy efficiency (EE) targets.
Meeting Growing Electricity Demand: The increase in renewable energy mainly addresses the rising electricity demand for an 8% economic growth rate, complicating a complete shift away from coal.
What policies can India adopt to balance its economic growth with environmental responsibility?
Renewable Energy Expansion: India is committed to more than tripling its RE capacity by 2030 with a target of 450GW. This will significantly reduce its coal dependence.
Decentralized Renewable Energy: Harnessing decentralized renewable energy in urban and rural areas can enhance energy security and reliability. This will align it with global trends in renewable energy business models.
Integrated Approach to Climate, Energy, and Health: India can benefit from addressing these interconnected issues together, even if it’s challenging to acknowledge this integration on international platforms.
Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) Initiative: India’s focus on the LiFE initiative encourages individual and community behavioral changes towards more climate-friendly practices.
Electric Vehicle Incentive Schemes: The robust growth in electric vehicles, primarily driven by sector-specific incentives, indicates a potential shift towards sustainable transportation options.For more information on LiFE read here
Question for practice:
Discuss about the strategies India that India can adopt to balance coal use and renewable energy growth?
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