India Ranks 7th in This Year’s Climate Change Performance Index
India has secured the 7th position in this year’s Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), climbing one spot from the previous ranking. The country has also maintained its position as one of the top performers, according to a report released during the global climate talks COP28 in Dubai on Friday.
The CCPI monitors the climate mitigation efforts of 63 countries, along with the European Union, which together account for more than 90% of global greenhouse gas emissions. India received a high ranking in the categories of greenhouse gas emissions and energy use, but a medium ranking in climate policy and renewable energy, consistent with the previous year’s assessment.
With its large population, India’s per capita emissions remain relatively low, as highlighted by the index. The report states that the country is on track to meet the benchmark of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius in the per capita greenhouse gas category. However, it notes that the progress in renewable energy adoption is slower than desired.
The report highlights that India’s energy demands are still predominantly met by coal, oil, and gas, which contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, particularly in urban areas.
The government has implemented high taxes on petrol and diesel, aiming to act as carbon taxes. However, the impact of these taxes on consumption remains a subject of debate. While some experts view them as effective tools to reduce consumption, others point out the government’s dependence on tax revenues from these sources.
The report also raises concerns about the detrimental effects of large-scale renewable energy projects on local communities, including land grabs and unequal distribution. It emphasizes the need for policies that not only mitigate the impact of climate change but also focus on transformative adaptation, disaster risk management, and consider equity and ecosystem-based solutions.
Experts have called for more effective policy implementation, including a faster phase-out of coal, reduced reliance on gas, and an expansion of renewable energy sources. They urge India to accelerate the timeline for achieving net-zero emissions to no later than 2050. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of creating people-friendly, climate-friendly, and sustainable infrastructure that is accessible, affordable, and considers the cultural and social contexts of different regions.
Srinivas Krishnaswamy, CEO of Vasudha Foundation, expressed contentment with India’s high ranking in the CCPI and highlighted the country’s concrete actions in line with its nationally determined contributions. Krishnaswamy cited India’s significant progress in non-fossil power installations, emission intensity reduction, and collaborative efforts by several states to address climate change.
As India continues its climate change mitigation journey, there is a growing recognition of the need for ambitious policies, enhanced political will, and active involvement of tribal and rural communities to create a sustainable and resilient future.
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