India’s Net Zero Emission Goal: A Roadmap to Sustainability
India has taken a significant step towards environmental sustainability by committing to net zero emissions by 2070. This ambitious target was announced at the 26th session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 26) in November 2021. The commitment aligns with Article 4, Paragraph 19 of the Paris Agreement, emphasizing climate justice, equity, and differentiated responsibilities. To achieve this goal, India has outlined a comprehensive long-term low-carbon development strategy, which includes key transitions in energy, industry, transportation, urban development, and forestry. read more about India Net Zero Emission.
What is Net Zero Emission?
Net zero emissions refer to a balance between greenhouse gas emissions produced and removed from the atmosphere. This means that by 2070, India’s emissions will be offset by absorption through forests, technology-driven solutions, and sustainable practices. The global push for net zero is essential to mitigate climate change and limit the rise in global temperatures to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
India’s Seven Key Transitions to Net Zero
To achieve India Net Zero Emission , India has planned seven crucial transitions:
- Low-Carbon Electricity Systems
India is focusing on renewable energy expansion while ensuring economic growth. Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power will play a vital role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. - Efficient and Inclusive Transport System
The government is working on integrating public transport and encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) to lower emissions in the transport sector. - Sustainable Urban Development
Cities are being designed to be climate-resilient with energy-efficient buildings and improved waste management systems. Smart urbanization is a key element in reducing emissions. - Decoupling Growth from Carbon Emissions
India is promoting an innovative industrial system that reduces emissions while maintaining economic progress. Industries will adopt cleaner technologies and efficient resource utilization. - Carbon Capture and Removal Technologies
Investing in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is crucial to offsetting emissions, along with nature-based solutions such as afforestation. - Enhancing Forest and Vegetation Cover
India is focusing on reforestation and afforestation to increase carbon sequestration, aligning with both ecological and socio-economic goals. - Economic and Financial Support for Low-Carbon Development
Transitioning to a low-carbon economy requires strong financial backing. India is mobilizing domestic and international climate finance to support sustainable development projects.
Government Initiatives for Net Zero Emissions
India has already implemented several policies and programs to curb environmental degradation and pollution. Some of the noteworthy initiatives include:
1. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
Launched in January 2019, NCAP aims to improve air quality across 131 cities in 24 states and Union Territories (UTs). The program targets a 40% reduction in particulate matter (PM 10) pollution by 2025-26. Currently, 95 cities have shown improved air quality compared to 2017-18, and 20 cities have met national air quality standards.
To ensure effective monitoring, India has installed 1,366 air quality monitoring stations, including:
- 910 manual stations across 389 cities, 28 states, and 7 UTs
- 456 Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) in 227 cities, 27 states, and 4 UTs
Additionally, the PRANA portal has been launched to track the implementation of NCAP and air quality improvements.
2. Swachh Vayu Survekshan (SVS) 2022
Under SVS 2022, cities submitted self-assessment reports on air quality management. The top nine best-performing cities were recognized and awarded for their efforts in reducing air pollution.
3. Bharat Stage (BS) VI Emission Standards
To curb vehicular pollution, India leapfrogged from BS-IV to BS-VI norms on April 1, 2020. These stricter fuel and emission standards significantly reduce air pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) from vehicles.
4. Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT)
The SATAT initiative promotes the production and usage of Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) as a clean alternative fuel. This reduces dependence on fossil fuels while promoting waste-to-energy solutions.
5. Expansion of Wetlands and Biodiversity Conservation
In August 2022, India added 10 new wetlands to the Ramsar List, bringing the total to 75 Ramsar sites, the highest in Asia. Wetlands play a critical role in carbon sequestration and climate adaptation.
Challenges in Achieving Net Zero Emissions
Although India has set an ambitious target, achieving net zero by 2070 comes with several challenges:
- Heavy Dependence on Coal
India still relies on coal for 70% of its electricity. Transitioning to renewables requires significant investments and policy shifts. - High Cost of Renewable Energy Infrastructure
Setting up solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects requires large-scale funding, which remains a key hurdle. - Technological and Industrial Transformation
The shift towards low-emission industries demands advanced technology adoption and heavy R&D investments. - Urbanization and Population Growth
Rapid urbanization increases energy consumption and emissions, making it crucial to implement green urban planning. - Financial and Policy Constraints
Achieving net zero emissions requires strong government policies, international cooperation, and financial support from both public and private sectors.
The Road Ahead: India’s Commitment to Sustainability
Despite the challenges, India is on the right track toward a low-carbon future. By investing in renewable energy, electric mobility, carbon capture technologies, and afforestation programs, the country is making steady progress. Moreover, policies like NCAP, SATAT, and BS-VI norms demonstrate India’s commitment to cleaner air and sustainable development.
Conclusion
India Net Zero Emission target by 2070 is a bold and necessary step toward addressing climate change and environmental degradation. The seven key transitions in low-carbon development, along with government initiatives like NCAP, BS-VI norms, and sustainable transportation policies, highlight the nation’s dedication to green growth.
As the world moves towards a carbon-neutral future, India’s comprehensive strategy and strong policy framework will play a crucial role in shaping a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world.
