India joins 57 nations in long-term strategies for net-zero pathways
Approach based on four pillars that lays out its climate policy landscape
The report, Long Term Low Carbon Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), was launched by Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav at the India@75 pavilion at the COP27 venue in Sharm Al Shaikh.
India yesterday joined 57 nations to have submitted longterm strategies for net-zero pathways at the UN climate summit, COP27, in Egypt.
This is a follow-up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech in Glasgow where he committed to India meeting net-zero goal by 2070.
The report, Long Term Low Carbon Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), was launched by Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav at the India@75 pavilion at the COP27 venue in Sharm Al Shaikh.
India’s approach is based on four pillars, namely its low historic contribution toward global warming, significant future energy needs, national circumstances as it pertains to committing to low-emission growth strategies, and the need to build climate resilience.
Seven priorities
The more than 100-page document specifies that it will focus on the following seven sectoral priorities to meet India’s decarbonisation goals.
Low carbon development in electricity systems consistent with development: India will prioritise demand side management for future planning of power systems. A further priority area will also be the development of green taxonomy for the power sector.
Develop an integrated, efficient, inclusive, low carbon transport system: The LT-LEDS section on transport includes priority planned actions around a phased transition to cleaner fuels. Demand side management measures have also been mentioned, along with measures on traffic management and intelligent transport systems.
Adaptation in urban design, energy and material efficiency in buildings, and sustainable urbanisation: Adaptation measures have been prioritised in the urban development section of the LT-LEDS along with low-carbon modes of municipal service delivery and waste management.
Promote economy-wide decoupling of emissions from growth, and development of an efficient, innovative, lowemission industrial system: India’s LT-LEDS for industrial decarbonisation depends heavily on measures to improve resource efficiency and exploration of fuel switching and electrification as and when viable.
Decarbonisation of MSMEs: They have been largely absent in India’s decarbonisation story, despite carrying a significant industrial base, energy demand and being a large source of employment.
Enhancing forest and vegetation cover: The LT-LEDS carries special focus on the restoration, conservation, and management of genetic resources contained within India’s forests, including but not limited to plant and animal diversity.
Economic and financial aspects of low carbon development: The strategy document recognises the challenges climate change and decarbonisation hold for fiscal policy and financial systems.
India’s long-term strategy shall involve the mainstreaming of climate finance and the development of new multilateral mechanisms for supporting innovation, and technology development.