Climate change is one of the biggest threats facing our planet today. It has the potential to cause irreparable damage to our environment, our economy, and our way of life. And yet, despite the overwhelming evidence of its existence and its impact, we have failed to take the kind of action necessary to mitigate its effects.
The fact is that climate change is a global problem that requires a global solution. A Lancet study from 2018 estimates that air pollution in India killed 1.24 million people in 2017 (12.5 per cent of total deaths). WHO predicts that an additional 250,000 climate-related deaths will occur globally – per year – between 2030 and 2050, given the current trajectory, from malnutrition, malaria diarrhoea and heat stress. So, no single country can solve this problem alone, no matter how large or wealthy it may be. Flooding Drought and rising temperatures are very common in India these days. That's why we need a global climate plan, one that brings together the world's nations in a united effort to combat climate change.
Such a plan should include a number of key elements. First and foremost, it should establish clear targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with specific timelines for meeting those targets. These targets must be ambitious and far-reaching, reflecting the urgent need to reduce emissions as quickly as possible.
Second, the plan should provide financial support to help developing countries transition to a low-carbon economy. This support should take the form of grants and low-interest loans, with a particular emphasis on helping countries to invest in renewable energy sources.
Third, the plan should promote international cooperation on issues related to climate change. This means sharing technology, expertise, and best practices, as well as working together to address the many complex challenges that arise when trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale.
Fourth, the plan should prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations, including those living in poverty and those living in areas that are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. This means taking steps to help these populations adapt to changing climate conditions, as well as ensuring that they have a seat at the table when decisions are made about how to address climate change.
Finally, the plan should establish mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing compliance with its provisions. This means creating an international body that is responsible for ensuring that nations are meeting their obligations under the plan, and that is empowered to take action against those that are not.
India under Modi’s leadership is proactively fighting the climate changes.Some of the key initiatives include:
1. International Solar Alliance (ISA): In November 2015, Prime Minister Modi launched the International Solar Alliance, a coalition of 121 countries to promote the use of solar energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
2. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): The Modi government has continued to implement and strengthen the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) that was launched in 2008 by the previous government. The NAPCC includes eight missions covering various sectors such as solar energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture.
3. Ujala Scheme: The government launched the Ujala Scheme in 2015, which aims to distribute energy-efficient LED bulbs at subsidized rates to households across the country. The scheme has led to a significant reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions.
4. Clean India Mission: The government launched the Clean India Mission in 2014, which aims to promote cleanliness, sanitation, and hygiene across the country. The mission has helped reduce pollution and improve public health.
5. Paris Agreement: The government ratified the Paris Agreement on climate change in 2016 and committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 33-35% by 2030 from 2005 levels.
6. Green Corridor: The government has established "Green Corridors" for the seamless transportation of renewable energy across the country.
7. Smart Cities Mission: The government's Smart Cities Mission includes several initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable urban development, including the use of renewable energy and public transport.
Of course, putting together a global climate plan of this kind will not be easy. It will require leadership, vision, and political will on the part of the world's leaders. But it is also absolutely necessary if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change.
The good news is that there are signs that such a plan is starting to take shape. The Paris Agreement, which was signed by 195 countries in 2015, is a good first step in this direction. But it is only a first step. We need to build on this momentum and continue to push for a more comprehensive and ambitious global climate plan.
The time for action is now. We can't afford to wait any longer. The planet is counting on us to take the necessary steps to protect it for future generations. Let's not let it down.