The Paris Agreement is a global agreement that was reached in 2015 at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The aim of the agreement is to limit global warming to less than 2°C above pre-industrial levels, and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. One of the key components of the Paris Agreement is the national targets, or “nationally determined contributions” (NDCs), that each country sets for itself in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. India is a signatory to the Paris Agreement and has set ambitious targets to combat climate change.
India is the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China and the United States. However, India’s per capita emissions are much lower than those of developed countries. India has committed to reducing the emission intensity of its GDP by 33-35% below 2005 levels by 2030. This means that while India’s economy continues to grow, the amount of greenhouse gases emitted per unit of GDP will decrease. India has also set a target to achieve 40% of its total installed capacity from renewable energy sources by 2030.
India has made significant progress in achieving its climate targets since the Paris Agreement was signed. India’s renewable energy capacity has increased from 35 GW in 2014 to over 90 GW in 2021. India has also launched several initiatives like the National Solar Mission, National Wind Mission, and the National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency to drive its efforts towards renewable energy.
Apart from renewable energy, India is also focusing on energy efficiency to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. India’s Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) was launched in 2007, which specifies the energy performance standards for new commercial buildings and major retrofits. The code has been updated several times to align with international building energy codes and standards. India also launched the Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) program to promote the use of energy-efficient LED light bulbs.
India’s efforts towards combating climate change are not limited to its own country. India has taken a leadership role in the international climate negotiations, advocating for equitable and just climate actions. India has also launched the International Solar Alliance, which is a coalition of over 120 countries that are committed to increasing the use of solar energy globally.
In conclusion, India has set ambitious targets under the Paris Agreement to combat climate change. India’s efforts towards renewable energy and energy efficiency have yielded significant results, and the country is on track to achieve its targets. India’s leadership in the international climate negotiations and initiatives like the International Solar Alliance showcase its commitment towards the global efforts to combat climate change.