Question #
Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference?
Answer by Chad #
The 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place from October 31 to November 12, 2021. It resulted in several significant outcomes aimed at addressing climate change:
1. Glasgow Climate Pact: The most significant outcome was the adoption of the Glasgow Climate Pact. The pact aims to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and enhance resilience to climate impacts. It emphasizes the need for urgent and enhanced actions by all countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Net-zero commitments: Several countries, including major emitters like China and Russia, made commitments to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 or shortly thereafter. This signals a global movement towards decarbonization.
3. Phasing out coal: More than 40 countries, including major coal users like India, announced commitments to phase out unabated coal power generation, either domestically or internationally. This is a crucial step in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Climate finance: Developed countries reaffirmed their commitment to mobilize $100 billion per year in climate finance for developing countries by 2023. Additionally, pledges to increase adaptation finance were made, addressing the urgent needs of the most vulnerable countries.
As for India's commitments at COP 26, the country made significant announcements, including:
1. Renewable energy targets: India announced an ambitious target of achieving 500 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030. This includes 450 GW of installed capacity for renewables and 50 GW for non-fossil fuel power sources.
2. Carbon neutrality: India announced its intention to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2070. Although this target falls short of the 2050 deadline preferred by many other countries, it represents a significant commitment from one of the world's largest emitters.
3. Coal phase-out: India committed to phasing out coal power plants that don't have carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. While the exact timeline wasn't specified, this commitment aligns with the global push to transition away from coal for power generation.
These commitments highlight India's resolve to address climate change by significantly increasing renewable energy capacity, reducing emissions from fossil fuels, and embracing decarbonization to achieve long-term climate goals.