As India approaches net-zero hour, here are some critical questions and answers
We should not underestimate the power of technology to make game changing interventions.
Synopsis
India has a historic opportunity to demonstrate a new developmental model in which growth is not at cost of environment. We have the pieces in place and need to add them up in a narrative.
In recent weeks, there have been media reports on the possibility of India announcing net zero emission targets. This has led to an intense debate. Some scholars have advocated that it is in India’s interest to announce net zero emissions targets by 2050. Others have urged restraint highlighting the magnitude of challenge involved and argue that we first decide on peaking. Some have questioned the very need for such announcements.
In India, the rich cause seven times more emissions than the poor
Pro-poor development measures will not hurt the environment as much as policies to make the wealthy richer, says a new study. Representational image. | Roberto Schmidt / AFP
The top 20% of high-expenditure households in India are responsible for seven times the emissions traceable to the poor who spend less than $1.9 (Rs 140) a day, says a recent
study by the Japan-based
Research Institute for Humanity and Nature. The mean carbon footprint of every Indian was estimated at 0.56 tonne per year – 0.19 tonne per capita among the poor and 1.32 tonne among the rich.