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New Delhi: Calling for thoughtful use of fossil fuels and development of sustainable, inclusive low-carbon transport systems, Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav on Wednesday said the path of sustainability must be chosen for conservation of ecosystem, biodiversity, development of society and best utilisation of human resources.
“To ensure sustainability, an appropriate technological and management system must be created for the world through policy, technological interventions and capacity building. Countries should develop action plans that prioritise equity, ensuring that health, justice and prosperity are available to all. This approach will promote social equity and facilitate inclusive, sustainable economic growth while safeguarding natural resources for future generations,” he said at the RE-INVEST Summit 2024 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Yadav highlighted that India represents 17% of the world’s population but its share in global emissions is only 5%. In comparison, 17% of the population in developed countries contributes to 60% of emissions.
“India’s per capita consumption remains low and the energy needs of developing countries must be considered. India has made significant progress in reducing carbon emissions despite facing challenges such as its diverse geographical conditions,” he said.
Private sector participation will be the key to achieving net zero emissions by 2070 by strengthening renewable grids, developing low-carbon technologies, and managing demand-side issues.
Use of fossil fuels
Yadav said there is a need for rational use of fossil fuel resources with due diligence and development of integrated efficient and inclusive low carbon transport systems and sustainable urbanisation, keeping in view inclusive, economic and ecological aspects.
Under its Mission Life, the Ministry has identified the following priorities for the first 100 days of the Government – Save Water, Save Energy, Reduce Waste, Reduce E-Waste, Say No to Single-use Plastic, Adopt Sustainable Food Systems, and Adopt Healthy Lifestyles.
The government has initiated more bio-based policy interventions and is also working on empowering the MSME sector as well as promoting fuel switching, recycling, circular economy and green hydrogen technology.
Empowering the Global South
India is working on international cooperation to empower the global South and is assessing financial needs with a focus on new quantitative targets at COP29.
Yadav said climate finance should be defined accordingly for capacity building. The power ministry has come up with the idea of a carbon market and launched the Green Climate Fund for capacity building.
He further said that economic viability of capacity building and technology transfer is the key to developing renewable energy markets.
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