Digest & Blogs

Highlights of COP 29: Transforming Ambitions into Action 

– by Navoneela Chakraborty, Senior Research Associate, The Celestial Earth

The 29th Conference of Parties (COP 29) to the UNFCCC took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024. Against the backdrop of escalating climate challenges, global leaders, policymakers, and climate advocates have gathered to frame and implement transformative strategies for a sustainable future. The summit acknowledged the urgency of collective action to combat the worldwide climate crisis.  

Key outcomes of COP 29 

Climate finance: COP 29 marked significant progress in mobilizing climate finance. The decision was made to triple the public finance in developing countries to combat climate change. The target is to secure an amount of USD 1.3 trillion per year by 2035 from public and private sources to fund climate finance in developing countries. Further, the Loss and Damage Fund agreed upon at COP 28 was operationalized, with hosting and trustee agreements signed.  

Article 6 Carbon Markets: A breakthrough agreement was reached in COP 29 on implementing Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement. It establishes reliable and transparent carbon markets, enabling nations to collaborate effectively in achieving their climate targets. This initiative is projected to significantly lower the cost of implementing national climate commitments (NDCs).  

Energy Transitions: Discussions also emphasized transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Key advancements in clean energy included Uganda and Standard Chartered joining the Powering Past Coal Alliance, ADB’s Energy Transition Mechanism progressing with a pilot project in Kazakhstan, and the Clean Energy Transition Partnership launching its Clean Energy Action Plan to enhance international support for renewable energy initiatives, among others.  

Adaptation: COP 29 made significant progress on adaptation, including establishing a support program for National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) for LDCs and launching the Baku Adaptation Road Map to enhance the UAE Framework. It also prioritized indigenous people and local communities through the Baku Workplan and renewed the mandate of the Facilitative Working Group to elevate their leadership in addressing climate challenges. 

Gender and Climate Change: COP 29 also advocated mainstream gender equality to work for a climate-conscious future and extended the enhanced Lima Work Programme on Gender and Climate Change for 10 years. Also, a new gender action plan has been decided to be developed for adoption at COP 30. 

Stakeholder Participation from diverse backgrounds: COP 29 welcomed over 55,000 participants from civil society, businesses, and other stakeholders, emphasizing inclusive engagement under Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE). For the first time, even children actively participated in the Youth-led Climate Forum, with four young moderators and speakers advocating for intergenerational collaboration in climate action.  

India’s Role at COP 29 

India reinforced its commitment to climate action in COP 29 through key initiatives: 

Updated NDCs: India reiterated its targets, including reducing emissions intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieving 50% renewable energy capacity. 

Mission LiFE: India advocated for the global adoption of sustainable consumption practices, emphasizing individual and collective action. 

Green Hydrogen: India’s efforts to lead the global green hydrogen economy were highlighted, positioning it as a critical player in energy transitions 

Furthermore, India took a stance in several side events, including the following:  

Integrating Disaster Resilient Infrastructure into Adaptation Strategies: India highlighted its leadership in promoting disaster-resilient infrastructure, showcasing initiatives like IRIS to support climate adaptation and sustainable infrastructure development globally. 

LeadIT Member Meet: India underscored the importance of partnerships for low-carbon industrial transitions, emphasizing hydrogen-based solutions and carbon capture technologies as key areas for collaboration with LeadIT members. 

India-Sweden Industry Transition Partnership (ITP): India reaffirmed its commitment to the India-Sweden ITP, emphasizing industrial decarbonization and linking efforts with Brazil-UK initiatives for achieving global climate targets. 

Unlocking Investments for Resilient Infrastructure in SIDS: India emphasized its role in supporting SIDS through IRIS and regional cooperation platforms like SAGAR and FIPIC, aiming to align climate finance with the unique needs of vulnerable nations. 

Energy Transitions for the Global South: as a founding member of the ISA, India advocated for scaling solar energy adoption to address energy security and accelerate the Global South’s transition to renewable energy. 

LeadIT Summit 2024: India showcased its advancements in industrial decarbonization, stressing the need for just transitions and innovation to align heavy industry with the Paris Agreement. 

Solarizing Communities through Women-Led Climate Action: India highlighted its achievements in renewable energy expansion and emphasized empowering women as central to advancing climate action and building community resilience. 

Conclusion 

COP 29 in Baku marked a critical step in advancing global climate action, with significant progress on finance, adaptation, energy transitions, and stakeholder inclusion. India’s active role and leadership across various initiatives reinforced its commitment to building a sustainable, equitable, and climate-resilient future. 

Carbon Markets: A Pathway to Climate Change Solutions

-by Sakshi Bisht (Research Associate)

Greenhouse gas emissions from human activities are the leading cause of climate change, and they are driving global warming at an alarming rate. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) are the primary contributors to this phenomenon. To tackle the rising threat, carbon markets have emerged as a promising solution, incentivizing emission reductions by putting a price on carbon and allowing its trade. Through these markets, nations and companies can pursue their climate targets in a cost-effective manner while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.

A carbon market is essentially a system that allows for the buying and selling of carbon credits, representing the right to emit a specific amount of greenhouse gases (usually one metric ton of CO₂). The idea is to place a monetary value on emissions, encouraging companies and governments to reduce their carbon footprint through various mechanisms. Carbon markets operate on the principle that greenhouse gas emissions can be priced. In these markets, companies or entities can trade emissions allowances or credits to meet their climate targets, promoting overall emission reductions.

(Source: climatechange.org)

There are two primary types of carbon markets: Compliance Carbon Markets and Voluntary Carbon Markets.

1. Compliance Carbon Markets: These markets are regulated by governments or international agreements. Participants in compliance markets are typically industries that must comply with set emissions limits. The most well-known mechanism within compliance markets is the “cap-and-trade system”. In this system, a government sets a limit (or cap) on emissions and allocates allowances to companies. Each allowance gives the holder the right to emit a specific amount of greenhouse gases. If a company exceeds its limit, it must purchase additional allowances from those who have extra, effectively creating a market for emissions reductions. Examples of this system include the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and the California Cap and Trade Scheme.

2. Voluntary Carbon Markets: Unlike compliance markets, voluntary carbon markets allow companies or individuals to purchase carbon credits to offset their emissions voluntarily. These credits are typically generated through projects that reduce or sequester emissions, such as afforestation, renewable energy projects, or methane capture from landfills. This market is often used by businesses looking to improve their environmental credentials or meet sustainability goals.

 (Source: carbonwise.com)

Two key tools in carbon markets are “carbon credits” and “carbon offsets.” While they are often used interchangeably, they serve slightly different purposes: Carbon credits are tradable permits that allow the holder to emit one metric ton of carbon dioxide or equivalent greenhouse gases. Companies use these credits to comply with regulatory requirements or voluntary commitments. While carbon offsets represent the amount of carbon that has been removed or avoided from the atmosphere, typically through investments in green projects that eliminate emissions.

Despite their potential, carbon markets face several challenges. These include issues of transparency and verification, fluctuating prices, limited scope, and market manipulation. The lack of regulation in some voluntary markets, coupled with price volatility, makes it difficult for businesses to engage in long-term planning.

India has been taking steps to develop carbon trading mechanisms. Some of the key initiatives include:

1. PAT (Perform, Achieve, and Trade) Scheme: Focuses on improving energy efficiency in industries and allows trading of energy-saving certificates.

2. Clean Development Mechanism (CDM): A government-led initiative, with India holding the second-largest number of CDM projects globally.

3. Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS): Launched in 2023, CCTS regulates the buying and selling of carbon credits, with mechanisms for both compliance and voluntary actions. The global carbon market is expanding as nations and industries see its value in reducing emissions and reaching climate goals. Examples like the EU Emissions Trading System show its effectiveness. India is also making contributions with initiatives like the PAT scheme and the new Carbon Credit Trading Scheme. With a growing focus on sustainability, India has the potential for a successful Carbon Market.

Green Hydrogen: Powering a Sustainable Future

-by Jigyasa Gambhir (Senior Research Associate)

In search of sustainable energy solutions for the future, the spotlight has turned to green hydrogen—a game-changer in the journey towards a cleaner and greener future. 

The journey of hydrogen dates back to the late 18th century, when scientists like Henry Cavendish and Antoine Lavoisier discovered this versatile element. Over the years, various production methods emerged, with the late 20th century witnessing a significant shift towards integrating renewable energy, paving the way for green hydrogen. 

Hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe, holds tremendous potential as a clean energy carrier. Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis, wherein renewable energy sources such as wind or solar power are used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The process produces zero carbon emissions, making green hydrogen a genuinely sustainable energy source. 

Green hydrogen has significant advantages for the environment. It significantly reduces harmful air pollutants associated with fossil fuel combustion, enhances air quality, and aids in achieving climate targets by decarbonising sectors that are challenging to electrify directly, such as heavy industry, shipping, and aviation. One of the most important benefits of green hydrogen is its potential to store excess renewable energy during low-demand or high-generation periods, allowing for efficient electrolysis and conversion back to electricity when needed. Green hydrogen’s versatility extends across various sectors, including transportation, agriculture, mining, and electricity generation. It can also be used as a fuel cell to power vehicles, as a feedstock in industrial processes, and even for residential heating and cooking, offering a scalable solution to our energy needs. 

Despite its immense potential, green hydrogen faces several challenges, including high production costs, limited renewable energy availability, energy-intensive processes, infrastructure constraints, and inadequate policies. However, these challenges can be addressed through technological advancements, increased production, supportive policies, and public awareness. 

Across the globe, initiatives like the California Hydrogen Highway, Germany’s Hydrogen Strategy, India’s National Hydrogen Energy Mission, and the Green Hydrogen Policy Framework promote innovation and infrastructure development while presenting abundant economic opportunities ranging from job creation to market growth and enhanced export potential. 

As we navigate towards a sustainable future, conducting feasibility studies, analysing policies, and integrating green hydrogen into sustainability strategies are crucial. With continued investment, innovation, and collaboration, we can harness the full potential of green hydrogen by opening the way for a cleaner, greener tomorrow and unlocking the pathway towards economic growth and environmental stewardship for generations to come.

The Journey of Electric Vehicles: Pioneering Sustainability in Transportation

-by Dr. Trina Som (Senior Research Fellow)

In the annals of transportation history, the evolution of vehicles traces a remarkable narrative—from the humble beginnings of horse-drawn carriages to the revolutionary rise of gasoline-powered cars. However, perhaps the most significant chapter in this saga unfolds with the emergence of Electric Vehicles (EVs), heralding a new era of sustainable mobility.

Glimpse into the Past to the Present: At the dawn of the 20th century, the clatter of hooves still dominated the streets. Yet, the seeds of change were sown with the advent of gasoline-powered vehicles still, inefficiencies and environmental impacts remain a concern. Fast forward to the 1990s, a pivotal period marked by regulatory shifts and environmental consciousness. The passage of key legislations such as the Clean Air Act Amendment and initiatives like the Energy Policy Act sparked renewed interest in electric vehicles, laying the groundwork for their resurgence. Unlike their fossil-fuelled counterparts, EVs harness the power of batteries to propel their electric motors. Regenerative braking, an ingenious mechanism of EVs, reduces reliance on traditional fuels and converts kinetic energy into a reusable resource. From plug-in hybrids to all-electric vehicles, the EV market offers diverse options. Each variant, such as hybrid EV, plug-in hybrid EV, and battery EV, offers unique advantages, catering to consumers’ varied needs and preferences worldwide.

The Why Behind EVs: The global embrace of EVs transcends mere transportation—it represents a collective endeavour towards a sustainable future. Motivated by domestic policy goals, economic imperatives, and environmental stewardship, nations worldwide are rallying on EV revolution. Government incentives and policy interventions have been instrumental in driving EV adoption worldwide. With exponential growth witnessed in markets like China, Europe, and the United States, the electric vehicle revolution is gathering momentum.

India’s Tryst with EVs: The journey towards electrification has been historic and transformative in India. From the pioneering efforts of early manufacturers to the ambitious targets set under the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020 and Faster adoption and manufacturing of (hybrid) & electric vehicles (FAME India), the nation is poised to emerge as a leader in sustainable transportation.

However, EVs face significant challenges despite the promise of progress. Ranging from range anxiety to infrastructural gaps, each hurdle presents an opportunity for innovation and adaptation.

Towards a Sustainable Horizon: As we navigate the road ahead, the future of EVs holds immense promise. With advancements in battery technology, infrastructure, and policy frameworks, we stand at the cusp of a transformative shift toward sustainable mobility. In the timeless quest for progress, Electric Vehicles stand as a beacon of hope—a testament to human ingenuity and our collective commitment to safeguarding the planet. As we embark on this journey towards a greener tomorrow, let us embrace the electric revolution and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.

From Global Initiatives to Side Events: India’s Impactful Presence at COP 28

-by Navoneela Chakraborty (Research Associate)

With representatives from 197 countries, COP 28 in 2023 was held in Dubai from 30th November – 12th December. It witnessed global leaders coming forward to showcase their efforts to limit global warming and discuss about the preparations for future climate change. India’s engagement in COP 28 has been significant and definitely calls for a discussion.  

Firstly, coming to the major initiatives from India’s side, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Green Credits initiative’ which aims to incentivize individuals, communities and organizations to undertake environmental actions such as plantation of trees, conservation of water, practicing sustainable agriculture, waste management, etc. The credits earned can then be traded to offset carbon emissions or sold to entities that seek to lower their environmental footprint.  Another initiative, the Leadership Group for Industry Transition Phase II (LeadIT 2.0) was also co-launched by Narendra Modi and the Sweden’s Prime Minister, Mr. Ulf Kristersson for the period 2024-26. It will focus on inclusive and just industry transition, co-development and transfer of low-carbon technology and financial assistance to emerging economies. Further, the Global River Cities Alliance was launched by the National Mission for Clean Ganga. This consists of a unique alliance covering 275+ global river cities in 11 countries including India, Egypt, Netherlands, Denmark, Ghana, Australia, Bhutan, Cambodia, Japan, and river-cities of The Hague (Den Haag) from the Netherlands, Adelaide from Australia, and Szolnok of Hungary. It aims towards river conservation and sustainable water management.  

India also stole the show by its active participation in different sessions and meetings. Notable ones include Narendra Modi’s discussions on importance of climate financing for the developing countries in the COP-28 Presidency’s Session on ‘Transforming Climate Finance’, emphasis on ecosystem restoration and biodiversity enhancement in the Mangrove Alliance for Climate Ministerial Meeting, discussions on India’s emission target achievements and its contributions in international efforts in the National Statement, etc. However, our country chose to skip signing the pledge signed at COP 28,  the Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge, which commits to tripling global installed renewable energy generation capacity to at least 11,000 GW by 2030. India also refused to sign the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health. 

Apart from these, India also organized a number of significant side events. MOeFCC organized a side event as a member of the Quad Climate Working Group (QCWG) on ‘Localising Climate Action’. This event focused on the importance of individuals, local communities, local and regional governments in combating climate change as well as contributions of the National Governments to encourage localized climate action. A publication on India’s climate action journey from COP-21 in Paris to COP-28 was also released in this event. In another side event by India on Climate Resilient Development in Indian Himalayas, there had been discussions on the impacts of climate change vulnerability in the Himalayan region and ways of creating climate resilient development in Indian Himalayan Region by making mountain communities green and resilient.  

What India can utilize from the outcomes of COP 28 include the Loss and Damage Fund that has been operationalized in this event as well as the Alterra Fund. The former one provides funds (with an initial corpus of $400 million) to vulnerable countries, including India, experiencing the negative impacts of climate change. The Alterra Fund, on the other hand, announced by UAE, provides US $30 billion investment fund for transformative climate partnerships and seeks to bridge the climate financing gap by raising and investing a corpus of up to $250 billion by 2030.  

In conclusion, India’s participation in COP 28 is a major milestone in the country’s journey in combating climate change. What the nation should focus on currently to move in the correct direction include fossil-fuel phase down, increasing scope of renewable energy, committing to climate finance targets, availing climate funds, increasing community participation, enhancement of Nationally Determined Contributions, and capacity building.

COP28 UAE: Transforming a Sustainable Future

-by Jigyasa Gambhir (Senior Research Associate)

Introduction:

The 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) occurred at Expo City in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 12, 2023. COP28 brought together world leaders, negotiators, and ministers to address critical issues and create collaborative solutions, emphasizing addressing climate change. COP28 brought together 198 official Parties representing 197 countries and the European Union. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology for the UAE, was the COP28 President. The conference aimed to build on the momentum generated since COP21 in 2015, primarily focusing on implementing the Paris Climate Change Agreement. COP28 was a critical milestone in the global effort to address climate change. With an urgent need to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 43% by 2030, compared to 2019 levels, the conference aimed to increase efforts and implement the Paris Agreement’s goals. The overall objectives included keeping global temperatures below a 1.5 °C rise, adapting to climate change, and aligning financial flows with climate-resilient development by 2050.

Highlights of COP28

-Loss and Damage Finance: COP28 addressed the immediate climate impacts on vulnerable communities, emphasizing the need for a finance facility to support them.

–Global Stocktake: The first-ever global stocktake was held at COP28, allowing countries to assess progress toward Paris Agreement goals.

-Fossil Fuel: COP28 aimed to phase down coal power, phase out fossil fuel subsidies, and transition away from fossil fuels by 2030.

Outcomes of COP28:

A) Energy Transition:

-The COP28 Presidency pledged to triple renewable energy generation capacity to 11,000 GW by 2030 and double energy efficiency improvements annually.

-The COP28 Presidency initiated global climate action on energy transitions, focusing on reducing cooling-related emissions and promoting zero-emission ocean transport.

B) Climate Finance:

-National governments and organizations pledged contributions to climate finance through various funds, including the Green Climate Fund and Adaptation Fund. The UAE launched the $30 billion catalytic climate fund ALTERRA.

-A significant amount of money was committed, including a $3.16 billion second replenishment for the Green Climate Fund, contributions to the Least Developed Countries Fund, and a $200 million UAE contribution to the International Monetary Fund’s Resilience and Sustainability Trust.

C) Nature and Livelihoods:

-COP28 transitioned from negotiation to implementation, with commitments to fund loss and damage responses, sustainable agriculture, and resilient food systems. Countries and organizations formed global alliances to support nature-based climate action.

-COP28 secured commitments to fund loss and damage responses, including $725 million from 18 countries and a $2.5 billion commitment to sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems.

D) Inclusivity:

– COP28 launched various initiatives to enhance youth and gender inclusion, Indigenous peoples’ participation, and the development of AI-powered climate action solutions.

Way forward:

COP28 laid the groundwork for future climate action, with agreements on loss and damage and commitments to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. The main focuses were fast-tracking energy transition, climate finance, nature, lives, livelihoods, and inclusivity. The essential funds introduced at COP28 are ALTERRA, Green Climate Fund, Adaptation Fund, Special Climate Change Fund, and Least Development Countries Fund. Azerbaijan will host COP29, and Brazil will host COP30. The conference outcomes provide a roadmap for continued efforts to address the pressing challenges of climate change worldwide.

Saving Our Pollinators

-by Sanghamitra Das Mondal (Program coordinator-Europe)

Spring flowers such as crocus, bluebells and forget-me-nots can provide an early source of nectar for bees emerging from their winter nests. Bees find it particularly easy to distinguish the colour purple, and many of their favourite flowers are of this hue 
(Credit: Getty Images)

For thousands of years, pollinating insects have played a crucial role for us and the planet: with their tireless work they protect biodiversity and along with it our health. Recent perils of climate change along with loss of habitat, poor nutrition and pesticide exposure are killing our bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

This giant insect workforce pollinate about three-quarters of our crops. Their sharp decline have resulted in 3%-5% loss of fruit, vegetable and nut production. It’s a complex crisis as poor nutrition is leaving these insect pollinators vulnerable to pesticides and parasites. There are simple steps we can all take to stop this quiet catastrophe. Our conscious effort to plant pollen and nectar rich plants in our green spaces could get our world buzzing again. This would include the rural pastures as well as urban landscapes and our gardens.

The precious wild flowers that are woven through history could support our bees, butterflies and pollinating insects with a rich variety of pollen and nectar. There’s no doubt that wildflowers are exceptionally beautiful and we can have them in incredible, joyous abundance once they are incorporated.  They’re remarkably tough and are totally adapted to our native land and climate.

Modern agriculture has transformed our countryside to meet our demands of food. It’s now estimated that there is loss of a staggering 98% of our wildflower rich habitats from before since we’ve started to rely on pesticides and herbicides. Many scientists and conservationists now believe that these two factors are making it hard for our wildflowers and our pollinating insects to survive.

It’s a strange feeling now walking through wheat fields. When we pass by some crop field from a distance we feel they are beautiful productive land but then if you actually stop and stand in a place like this there’s just not a single bee, a hover fly or a butterfly and it’s because there are no wild flowers. Before herbicides and pesticides we would have had corn field weeds such as corn poppies and corn cockle and marigolds and lots of splashes of colour.  Now it’s really like a wildlife desert out there.

But why should we care if our countryside isn’t full of flowers and buzzing with honey bees, bumble bees and pollinating insects. Does it really affect the majority of us that live in towns and cities? It does eventually. Most of the fruits and vegetable that we consume on a daily basis are dependant on these pollinators for their natural growth and propagation.

According to Prof David Goulson, at the University of Sussex, in the UK, “Globally, we consume too much of the wind pollinated crops – wheat, rice, corn, barley – which are rich in carbs but relatively low in nutrients, leading to an epidemic of obesity and diabetes around the world. We do not eat enough fruit and veg, most of which requires insects for pollination – think apples, cherries, strawberries, squash, beans, tomatoes etc.”

A recent study published in the journal of Environmental Health Perspectives shows the global loss of pollinators is already causing about 500,000 early deaths a year by reducing the supply of healthy foods.The researchers considered deaths from heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers, all of which can be reduced with healthier diets. The study is the first to quantify the human health toll of insufficient wild pollinators.It was based on data from hundreds of farms across the world, information on yields and diet-related health risks and a computer model that tracks the global trade in food.

The researchers found the biggest impact was in middle-income countries, like China, India, Russia and Indonesia, where heart disease, strokes and cancers were already prevalent due to poor diets, smoking, and low levels of exercise. In rich nations, more people could still afford to eat healthily even if the price of the foods went up due to lower production, although the poorer people in those countries would still suffer.

The most concerning aspect of this study is that, since insect populations are continuing to decline, this lost crop yield is going to get worse into the future, while the human population is going to continue growing to at least 10 billion. The problems described here are likely to get much worse as the 21st century progresses.

But there is a solution out there in pollinator-friendly practices. These include increasing flower abundance on farms, cutting pesticide use, especially neonicotinoids, and preserving or restoring nearby natural habitats.So why don’t we adapt our age old ways and encourage the pollinators by increasing the biodiversity and native plant covers. It will take a bit of time but conscious decision and effort will help mankind, other living beings and Mother Nature in the long run.

What a waste: Pictures from Gurugram city

-by Jigyasa Gambhir (Research Associate)

Global waste production is projected to reach approximately 27 billion tonnes annually by 2050, one-third of which comes from Asia, with significant contributions from China and India. The waste sector in India contributes about 3.5 percent of India’s total GHG emissions (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, 2015). The main sources of GHG emissions in India’s waste sector include municipal solid waste, hazardous waste, wastewater, radioactive waste, and others. Methane (CH4) is a potent GHG, which is produced and released into the atmosphere as a by-product of the anaerobic decomposition of solid waste and when domestic and industrial wastewater are treated or disposed of anaerobically. A smaller amount of nitrous oxide (N2O) emission occurs from the disposal of domestic wastewater into waterways due to the protein content present in domestic wastewater.  Waste generation rates depend on factors such as population density, economic conditions, and levels of commercial activity, culture, and cities/regions.

Millennium City Gurugram is the second-largest technology centre in India and has the country’s highest carbon footprint (RIHN, 2021). It is anticipated that in 2041, Gurugram will generate approximately 2900 MT of solid waste per day. The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) is the apex body responsible for solid waste planning and management in the city. More than 90% of solid waste in Gurugram is being disposed of at landfills, which is the cheapest way of disposal. As per the latest statistics, Gurugram generates over 1,350 tonnes of solid waste per day (TPD). Of this, 600–700 TPD is sent to the Bhandwari landfill, which is on the Gurugram–Faridabad Road and was built as a landfill and waste treatment facility under the JNNURM scheme in 2010–2011. According to the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), Gurugram generates over 700 TPD of construction and demolition waste and 1.5 TPD of biomedical waste; the city also generates 70,000 tonnes of e-waste annually. MCG estimates show that per capita waste generation in Gurugram is about 320 gm/day, which includes residential, commercial, and institutional waste. Eco-green Energy is a well-established and acclaimed private waste management and waste-to-energy company in Gurugram. It not only collects and transports municipal solid waste (MSW) but also processes it into adequate quality organic compost and RDF. The organic compost produced by biomining is utilized in parks, gardens, dividers, green-belts, etc., and the refuse-derived fuel (RDF) is sent to cement industries and WTE Plants. 

Uncontrolled burning of waste at dumpsites releases fine particles, a significant cause of respiratory disease and causes smog. There is a need to develop facilities to treat and dispose of increasing amounts of MSW. Properly engineered waste disposal protects public health and preserves key environmental resources such as groundwater, surface water, soil fertility, and air quality. There are a wide range of technologies that can mitigate GHG emissions from waste and provide public health, environmental protection, and sustainable development co-benefits. Emission mitigation options for the waste sector include diversion of organic waste from landfills towards treatment options, diversion of wastewater from domestic and commercial sectors towards sewers, and further capturing and utilizing methane from landfills and effluent treatment units, which can lower the emissions by 2031. There is an urgent need to apply appropriate policy, political will, financial resources, capacity building, and indigenous technology to reduce the impact of our activities on global warming.  

The silver lining of IPCC AR-6: Climate-Ecology-Physical Perspective: An optimistic vision to IPCC AR 6 Physical Science Report

-by Yash Khanna

Earth has been under a strenuous condition in context to the utilization of natural resources, atmosphere and climate, land use, etc. It is quite imperative that the entire ecology of the Earth is under an unprecedented imbalance and is tending towards a state of irreversibility. Over the last couple of decades, the Earth has been exposed to an unprecedented temperature rise. In citation to the latest IPCC AR 6 report on the physical science perspective, there have been two major elongated phases of exorbitant warming which occurred 6500 years and 125000 years ago. In addition to this, last two centuries has experienced a rapid rise in exorbitant warming through the onset and expansion of the industrial revolution, thus, our climate is experiencing a similar scale of the warming. While the two historic phases occurred because of inter-glacial activities and orbital shift, the hypothesis of anthropogenic simulated warming over the current phase is proving out to be a real phenomenon.  The diagram below shows how within the current time horizon of 21 century, the anthropogenic temperature effect is by far 1 degree higher than what the natural means would have had.

Speaking of percentages and numbers, it has been estimated that anthropogenic contribution to the post-1900 global warming has been 66% within the processes of the entire nature. Humans have thereby not only become a bane to the animal, marine, bird, forest and other living systems, but also towards their self-existence. The law of entropy is the most fundamental law of thermodynamic which has its impact on all-natural processes. Earth’s greatest irony is that the most advanced beings have managed to create an environment that has led to the most unethical implementation of the strongest law i.e., the law of entropy.

The decade perspective on the last decade of the 19th century (1850-1900) and the previous decade of 21 century (2010-2019), speaks a lot about the mismanagement of humans! The average global temperature has increased by a range of 1 degree Celsius. The respective concentration of Carbon dioxide, Methane and Nitrous oxide is on a record of at least 800000 years high. Observational increase in three major greenhouse gasses since 1750 (Advent of the industrial revolution) indicates 47% increase in carbon-dioxide levels, 156% in methane levels and 23% in Nitrous-oxide are exceeding or comparatively at pat with the previous natural glacial-interglacial natural transformation (cold to warm) over the past 800000 years, as indicated in the latest IPCC AR-6. It can be concurred that those human efforts to develop and bring efficient inventions have eventually made the entropy increase more efficient leading to the higher order of untraceable irreversibility, provided measures to reverse engineer the process are implemented. The decade perspective has intensified the gravity factor of ecological extremities, minimum Arctic Sea ice since 1850, warmest ocean level since last 11000 years, pH increase, fastest ten-year sea-level rise. Coming to land-based ecosystems the last decade has experienced the fastest rates of agricultural draught due to transpiration. Post-industrial revolution, the radiative forcing has almost tripled now, which indicates that Earth’s carbon trapping has tripled. Such phenomena call upon long-drawn conclaves, discussions, accusations, claims, suggestions. But apart from such front-end verbal events, what is often neglected is the back-end research initiatives that take place on a multi-dimensional and multi-sector spectrum. This is what defines the silver lining of climate change. Statistical and surrogate modeling have opened a domain of research wherein economy; energy, climate, land and demography can be merged to form an integrated modeling approach. The International Institute of Applied Systems Studies is the forefront research institute for climate change and has formulated the basis of defining development scenarios, which bring upon the eventuality of how our future might look like. Such scenarios are termed Shared Socioeconomic pathways are widely accepted databases that have merged the above-defined research domains to show how the emission trajectory would like in context to Earth’s carbon trapping (RCP – Representative Concentration Pathway) and the timeframe wherein negative /zero-emission state would be achieved or whether not!

There are five such scenarios. The rocky pathway /fossil future, the BAU / current level scenario with no further interventions. Considering the continuous improvement process in the national policy framework in the context of the energy sector, it is imperative that with technologies like solar PV, wind, fuel cells and CCS acting as bolster and catalyst, long term occurrence of these two pathways is unlikely. As we move upper the ladder of optimism the scenarios defined are SSP-2, also known as “Middle of the road pathway” (4.5 RCP) and SSP1, which is known as the “Sustainability pathway”. SSP1 further has two sub-conditions of 2.4 RCP and 1.9 RCP. SSP2 would keep the emissions constraint at current levels. When taken on a perspective of emission intensity to GDP, the world after mid-century can possibly turn into a growth saturation as the rapid interventions in developing Asia and the continuous growth in biomass research within Africa would like to bring the global emission to GDP intensity towards a saturating curve at a very likely trend post-mid-century could be a reducing trend. Considering the fact that nature does have its own elasticity, it is very likely that on a long-term horizon the natural process memory of Earth would definitely lead to a mechanism of self-healing that can correspond to the most optimistic SSP-1’s. Scientifically all-natural processes do have a period of transiency and if the elasticity limit is exceeded, the time of the transient phase in the reversal is steeper, which can make the ecological imbalances exorbitant. But again, by the concept of analogy, the steeper the reversal, the shorter would be the period of ecological imbalance. When evolution would be brought to perspective, species would unconsciously prepare for such a phase and thereby the ecological collateral damage can be controlled. What humans need to introspect upon is the reverse engineering support they need to give to nature to change the likely achievable SSP1 -2.4 to make SSP1-1.9 a reality!

Citation:

All figures are taken from IPCC_AR6_WGI Report
IPCC, 2021: Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Masson-Delmotte, V., P. Zhai, A. Pirani, S.L. Connors, C. Péan, S. Berger, N. Caud, Y. Chen, L. Goldfarb, M.I. Gomis, M. Huang, K. Leitzell, E. Lonnoy, J.B.R. Matthews, T.K. Maycock, T. Waterfield, O. Yelekçi, R. Yu, and B. Zhou (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press. In Press.

Disclaimer: The views presented in this article is of the author himself, this does not reflect the ideology of the organization. The views are personal and are for public address.

Why do we need Smart Cities for a Sustainable Future?

-By Yashi Upadhyay

Today, more than half the world’s population is residing in global cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Shanghai, Tokyo, etc. According to (UN, 2018), the share of the world’s global population living in urban areas is expected to increase from 55 percent in 2018 to 60 percent in 2030. From around 16 cities in the 20th century to almost 400 cities today, contain a million people or more. Rapid urbanization and development have major consequences on sustainable development creating risks to the surrounding environment, natural resources, health conditions, social composition, resource management, loss of agricultural land, urban sprawl, and industrial activities. Not to forget, cities are by far the largest contributors to GHG emissions, they consume 75% of the world’s resources and produce 80% of CO2 emissions (UN-Habitat 2005).

Why do we need Smart Cities? The answer to this question is the constrain and scare resources overburdened by the unrestrained human activities, the rapid rise in population and uncontrolled depletion of resources urges for planned activities that could reduce the pressure on the only planet to sustain life. Optimum use of resources and through the provision of optimum benefits by reducing the space with planning and effective designing processes. As a futuristic and developing world, we must realize that the actual economic growth lies in urbanization.  80% of the world’s Gross Domestic Product is created through cities. Hence urbanization, as has always been, must be treated as an opportunity and not as a problem. But this can only be done, if we give thrust to the development of sustainable smart cities across the world. It can be resolved through integrated action plans including the route of urban renewal, adopting environment-friendly technologies.

Singapore topped the 2020 Smart City Index, followed by Helsinki and Zurich in the respective second and third positions, which makes these cities top the list. It is important to learn and work on those guidelines, for Singapore was the second running year topping the list. Planned activities definitely reduce the stress on the environment, the rising global risk of rapid urbanization calls for mitigation activities that could handle the stress and design a futuristic and inclusive urban infrastructure that could accommodate activities for the sustenance and preservation of the environment.

The good part is that the future of smart cities looks optimistic as the policymakers and urban development authorities have started to rely on smart city initiatives to address the complications arising due to the existing urban conglomeration and to deal with social issues like healthcare, infrastructure, transportation, education, etc. The governments across the world are looking upon and are getting inspired by smart cities like Singapore, Stockholm, Amsterdam, Barcelona, New York, and Dubai, to name a few. They have successfully begun to apply small changes to their city models to ensure its citizen socially favorable, economically stable, through environmental perspective, being ‘sustainable’ – not just for today but for tomorrow as well. The Indian government too is actively progressing in its Smart Cities Mission of 2015, under which the government aims to create 100 smart cities in the country. All of this gives its citizen, a ray of hope, highlighting the significance of integrated development of cities which will lead towards a sustainable future and improve their quality of life.

Disclaimer: The views presented in this article is of the author herself, this does not reflect the ideology of the organization. The views are personal and are for public address

Image Source: RTPI | Renewable Energy

Where we stand in the Journey towards Carbon Neutrality

-by Tania Ray Bhattacharya (Founder CEO- TCE)

Is carbon neutrality practically possible to achieve, grossly within 30 years down the lane? The world is looking for the answer. The countries are running behind to achieve a carbon neutral target, i.e., achieving a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere in carbon sinks, e.g., the vegetation and the ocean.

We regularly see the recent disasters and havocs all over the globe due to the effect of climate change and global warming. And in order to curb the global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius –a safe threshold suggested by the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC)– carbon neutrality to be achieved by mid-21st century is essential. This target is also declared in the Paris Agreement signed by 195 countries.

While, numerous measures are taken worldwide to reduce the carbon emission from past years, but yet, actually a massive journey is ahead to reach the target, and the pathway is not very clear. It’s a bit of comfort that our pandemic-struck and locked-down planet could cut its carbon dioxide emissions last year i.e., 2020 by 7%, the biggest drop ever achieved. But still, the world, on average discharges 1,185 tons of CO2 into the air every second.

And what about the carbon absorption/ sequestration? Apart from the natural carbon capture to be increased with massive afforestation programs, the CCS technologies are also important as climate protection  technologies, already used by many developed countries and very important for the coal-rich  countries  like  India and other emerging economies, having  potential  in  hugely  reducing  CO2  emission . Though the period of 1970-80 saw the starting of CCS technologies  but the good news is that the costs of these technologies are falling rapidly  while  next  generation  technologies  are  getting unleashed, making them affordable.

Though 2020 experienced a major drop of CO2 emissions, but a rebound this year is almost certain, because the drop was the result of temporary behavioral and life style changes rather than structural reforms. While the Governments need to concentrate on the structural reforms through stricter policies, each individual business should do their best to cut the emissions through sustainable green production, and for the people, sustainable consumption patterns, life style changes, maintaining the new trends learnt in the COVID era are the need of the hour.  

Let’s hope, it would be possible to reach the carbon neutrality target if the global community works together.

Disclaimer: The views presented in this article is of the author herself, this does not reflect the ideology of the organization. The views are personal and are for public address

The Potential Impact of COVID-19 on Children

-by Pranav Sinha

The pandemic COVID 19 is just about a warning to humans that Nature controls everything. The collapse of Health care system, financial institution, and economic instability has revealed the preparedness of we humans to encounter the consequences of Pandemic, we waved our hand to the prime concerns of economic instability, financial uncertainty but the most important factor that remained unattended for a longer period of time was the impact that may be indirect on Children. Children are so vulnerable to the consequential uncertainty of this pandemic that it is important for us to understand the situation in detail. COVID 19, did not make Children a direct victim but this pandemic has resulted in indirect effect both physically and mentally, these two effects when observed in separate purview, it explains that the children were the most innocent victims of the pandemic. The mental trauma out of the forced isolation pressured on the children had a direct impact, I have seen the same in my family thus it is important to explain the same by my experience. The anticipated outcome of this pandemic was very uncertain that even the system collapsed of the most favoured health services of the first world nations.

Delivery of services like Birth & Death registration, school services, paediatric services all were impacted. One of the major impacts were on the dependent population of children who are living in poverty and were depended on the Mid-Day-Meal of the School and had to face food Insecurity, their health is deteriorating as accounted by many NGO’s. Another impact is the direct delay in Vaccination of the children as the threat and fear of the parents resist them to go for timely vaccination. Even the Medical services are overburdened by the Pandemic situation thus it just becomes impossible for the family to even think about it now. Now if we shift our attention towards the education system supporting it is clearly observed that the pandemic has resulted in the rising rates of the school dropouts which accounts to about 6 Million and about 290 Million Children are affected by this pandemic. Though the teaching methods have evolved during the pandemic but it is important to identify that the dependency of children on electronic gadgets is increasing the screen time and in many ways is harming and changing the lifestyle of the children. The above image depicts the crisis that they had to suffer, I met with these three children who were hungry and were cooking egg in a small earthen tea cup using wood residue, they expressed that they were in deep suffering and had very limited to eat, as they were now not going school, thus, were dependent on their own capacity. The low income families and the children of the Social Workers and Essential Services employee are deeply impacted by the hovering situation and still further awaits the threat of the post pandemic scenario of financial and work instability as the situation can worsen by the gradual imposition of untimely government decisions, though all efforts are being made to incorporate the available resources and its channelization in bringing the economy on the track thus it is expected the situation gets better as the time passes, and we should contribute both mentally and physically in reducing the unknown stress of the children.

Mitigating the ill effects of Mass Exodus on children is one of the major concerns that is needed to be understood, the pandemic brought with it the consequence of mass exodus due to financial instability being a threat to the livelihood of the dependent population on the work forces, majorly the children, they can be targeted for increased human trafficking due to the underlying circumstances. The extended situation of exodus has adequate evidence to support the claim. They being dependent on the prime bread earner of the family are also contingent on the decisions made for them and in many ways that relates to the consequential effects of the worsening situation. To reduce the risk and the uncertain impact, there should be stronger tracking systems at the state and the local levels in sync to keep record of families and children entering and exiting their Village/City of residence. Another situation out of the same is the dropping out from schools, out of the accounted school going population 20 % of the children are not going to school by the source NUEPA (2016). Only 32 % of Children finish their school education age-appropriately. these are the reasons that the school activities of the children can be impacted and can have adverse effect. The NUEPA data is from 2016, it can be imagined how this long year of 2020 could impact the most vulnerable population, the smaller ones. It is very important to provide children with adequate financial and social protection thus it is deliberately expressed to ensure budgetary provisions to ensure that the welfare is reached to the last child of the society, planning should be made so to ensure that that activities involving the better life pursuance should be well observed and tracked so as no further destitution can happen.

Disclaimer: The views presented in this article is of the author himself, this does not reflect the ideology of the organization. The views are personal and are for public address.

Polluting Delhi

-by Pranav Sinha

Public health and damage to the environment in Delhi is irreversible. Unrestrained human activities are becoming a threat to inhabitants, the situation is worsening day by day. Recently the government woke up from its slumber and tried to dissolve the decades-old Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority [EPCA] with a permanent body i.e., Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), entrusting special powers to coordinate the activities addressing air pollution. The air quality turning to the status of ‘very poor’ in Delhi and the adjoining states has raised an alarm that requires attention and hopefully this initiative in the form of an ordinance forming a specialized body (CAQM) to deal with any conflict in the redressal of regulation related to Air Quality among neighboring states will pave the way for stringent actions for any violation, any conflict or dispute in regards with jurisdiction and that will be addressed with a ‘writ’ issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management.

Delhi has its own past, the mixed success of Odd-Even formula for vehicles on the road had its own dimension, may be the direct impact would have been less but exposure to direct pollutant got reduced due to Odd-Even formula, people were somehow compelled to refrain using their vehicles on alternate days and had to opt for public transport or on sharing basis. But still, I consider Odd-Even to be the last resort to the declining condition of environment in Delhi.

According to CPCB, on November 01, 2020, the AQI was reported to be unhealthy with an average of 244 for PM10 (respirable particulate matter). Delhi Cantt. Reported the best AQI around 10. But, the share of stubble burning has its own rise and currently has a toxic contribution of 23% PM2.5 (lead pollutants). The share in stubble pollution is majorly due to the neighboring states but what about the internal pollution of Delhi. The total number of registered vehicles on the road of Delhi has crossed the mark of 1 crore and apart from this plying vehicles from other states and transiting vehicles are another burden for Delhi. Around 1 lakh trucks ply on the road of Delhi every day and most of them are diesel backed engine, sometimes these are illegally fueled by kerosene too. Now, this is a matter of grave concern, maybe the fine for polluting Delhi or any other region could be high but rarely these vehicles are checked or the vehicle generally present attenuated or fake Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificated when asked maybe the recently raised standards of mass emission could create an impact on the pollution control process. A study done by CIDM, Chandigarh reported that around 10,000 to 30,000 deaths in Delhi are directly or indirectly caused due to the pollution of Delhi. The same report states that “correlation between particulate levels in ambient air and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in kids”, this severity of Air pollution is so worrying, but still the unrestrained human activities are at a disturbing level.

The dubious condition of Air Quality in Delhi is due to unawareness of the environmental regulations among its residents. Compliance of Regulatory measures are generally dogged by the local residents and is considered as over hyped.

There are already available technologies in the market or are in the phase of development to control pollution, but I rather suggest stringent law and awareness campaign for the common public about the rising grave concern of pollution in Delhi. A recent development in techniques like PUSA Decomposer – developed by Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI), will reduce the time for decomposing paddy straws that are a burden for the marginal farmers. This can be a low-cost solution to manage crop residues. This Pusa Decomposer capsule reduces the time taken for the decomposition of crop residue and it costs around RS. 20 for 4 capsules. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) burning crop residue in Haryana and Punjab contributed to 44% of pollution in NCR-Delhi. Another recent effort was the installation of smog towers in Delhi in the form of a pilot project by IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi in collaboration with the University of Minnesota under the directives of Supreme Court given to Central and Delhi government which is estimated to treat 250,000 to 600,00 cubic meters of air per day. The adoption of institutional measures of the Graded Response Action Plan can be a brilliant approach to curb the Air Pollution in Delhi which has recently come into force.

Thus, mitigating climate change should be an obligatory responsibility for all, efforts like preferring public transport rather than owning a new car for oneself, adoption of activities which reduces our worry for our future generation are the need of the hour. The Ecological ethics should prevail as one should realize the importance of social cost incurring to the society by the unrestricted and unrestrained activities of, we humans. This menace should be curbed to make the life of our future generation livable.

Disclaimer: The views presented in this article is of the author himself, this does not reflect the ideology of the organization. The views are personal and are for public address.

Valuation of Ecosystem Services in High Himalayan Mountain Landscape

ECOSYSTEM SERVICES& ECONOMICS 

In ecosystem includes all living things in a given area along with their interactions  with each other and with the surrounding environment. The interactions of all  living and non-living things in the ecosystem provides benefits which are termed  as “ecosystem services”. These include provisioning services such as food and water; regulating services such as regulation of floods, drought, land degradation and disease; supporting services such as soil formation and nutrient cycling and  cultural services such as recreational, spiritual, religious and other nonmaterial  benefits. 

NEED FOR VALUATION OF BIODIVERSITY &ECOSYSTEM SERVICES 

Valuation of ecosystem services means assigning economic, social and cultural values to the services provided by the respective ecosystem to the people around. There are four different types of services provided by an  ecosystem: i) Regulatory, ii) Provisioning, iii) Supporting and iv) Cultural. Besides, there could be very specific services that a particular ecosystem can provide to the local area which are not covered under these four categories. Understanding of the values of the services provided by the surrounding ecosystem to the people can present an economic argument for protecting those natural resources. Unless, the values are known it is hard to adopt any economic or social measure to protect and conserve the  ecosystem indeed. In general, ecosystem around us being the public goods has no inherent merit of being protected from over exploitation and destruction. Economic valuation can provide certain policy logic for conservation and protection and can even help to convert them into private goods and impose control over consumption of the derived services. Thus quantification of ecosystem services helps in highlighting the relevance of these services in the society and also helps in mainstreaming of services into policies and decision making.