India Reduces Emissions Rate by 33 Percent over 14 Years
Over the past 14 years, India has showcased significant progress in its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. From 2005 to 2019, the country remarkably decreased its greenhouse emissions rate by 33%. This not only demonstrates India’s capability to adapt to cleaner energy solutions but also its commitment to global environmental initiatives.
Commitment to the UNFCCC
India’s dedication towards a sustainable future is further underscored by its commitment to the United Nations Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). By 2030, the nation has pledged to reduce its emissions intensity by 45% from its 2005 levels. The measures taken between 2016 and 2019, in particular, saw an impressive average annual emission reduction rate of 3%.
The Current Energy Scenario
While strides are being made towards a greener future, fossil fuels still dominate India’s energy mix. However, the nation is not solely reliant on this form of energy. In the fiscal year that concluded in March, non-fossil fuel-based power, which includes sources like hydro, nuclear, and renewables, contributed to 25.3% of India’s total power generation. Nevertheless, thermal power stations remain a dominant force, supplying 73% of the consumed electricity.
Nature’s Role and Green Innovations
Forests play a vital role in the carbon sequestration process, and as of 2019, they covered 24.56% of India’s land. Alongside this natural carbon sink, India is also venturing into innovative energy solutions like green hydrogen, produced by leveraging renewable energy to split water molecules.
International Interactions on Fossil Fuels
On a global scale, fossil fuel usage remains a contentious topic. The Group of 20 (G20), which consists of major world economies, failed twice in recent times to reach a consensus on phasing out fossil fuels. Such interactions highlight the challenges in synchronizing worldwide energy transitions.
Month: Current Affairs - August, 2023
Category: Environment Current Affairs