In 2020, India reduced GHG emissions by 7.93%, a significant climate achievement recognized by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav. The decline was partly influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic’s economic effects. India aims for net-zero emissions by 2070 and seeks greater international cooperation and financial support for climate adaptation, while emphasizing equity in global climate governance.
In 2020, India achieved a notable reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, slashing them by 7.93%. This achievement was highlighted by Bhupender Yadav, the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, during his inaugural speech at the World Sustainable Development Summit 2025.
Yadav pointed out that this reduction underscores India’s commitment to climate action and positions the nation as a leader in the climate agenda of the Global South. According to the fourth biennial report submitted to the UNFCCC in January, India’s overall GHG emissions decreased by 7.93% compared to 2019, notwithstanding a significant overall increase of 98.34% since 1994.
The minister noted that the reduction in emissions may have been influenced by the economic downturn due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to a 7.7% contraction of India’s economy in 2020-21. Measures taken by the government to address economic recovery also contributed to this decline in emissions.
Yadav emphasized the necessity for developed nations to honor their financial and technological commitments, particularly within the framework of the Paris Agreement. He urged for enhanced international cooperation to strengthen Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), emphasizing their role in addressing climate challenges and opportunities.
Furthermore, he called for increased climate adaptation finance to support vulnerable regions in implementing solutions that enhance resilience and protect livelihoods. Yadav outlined India’s ambitious long-term vision of becoming a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, with plans to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
He highlighted India’s achievement in reducing emission intensity of its GDP by 36% from 2005 to 2020 and set a context around the 45% target for 2030. Yadav called for comprehensive reforms in global governance to ensure equity and justice remains the foundation of climate negotiations.
India’s achievement of a 7.93% reduction in GHG emissions in 2020 affirms its commitment to climate action, amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. The country aims for net-zero emissions by 2070, pushing for global equity and cooperation in addressing climate change. Enhanced financial support and robust global governance reforms are essential for sustaining this momentum.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
