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?
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?
Subject: Environment & Ecology
The Glasgow Climate Pact at COP26 marked a pivotal moment in global climate action, witnessing unprecedented commitments from nations worldwide, including India's ambitious climate pledges aligned with the Paris Agreement goals.
Major Outcomes of COP26
Global Commitments
- First-ever explicit mention of phasing down coal power and eliminating inefficient fossil fuel subsidies in a COP agreement.
- Countries agreed to revisit and strengthen their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2022 to align with the 1.5°C temperature goal.
- Enhanced focus on climate finance with developed nations urged to double their collective provision to developing countries.
- Establishment of a structured dialogue on Loss and Damage funding arrangements.
Key Agreements
- Global Methane Pledge to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030.
- Glasgow Leaders' Declaration on Forests and Land Use to halt and reverse deforestation by 2030.
- Finalization of Paris Rulebook for carbon markets and transparency in reporting emissions.
India's Commitments at COP26
Energy Transition
- Commitment to achieve Net-Zero emissions by 2070.
- Increase non-fossil fuel energy capacity to 500 GW by 2030.
- Meet 50% of energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030.
Emission Reduction
- Reduce total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030.
- Lower carbon intensity by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030.
- Launch of 'Lifestyle for Environment' (LiFE) initiative promoting sustainable lifestyles.
Climate Finance
- Called for developed nations to provide climate finance of $1 trillion to developing countries.
- Emphasized the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR).
India's commitments at COP26 demonstrate its leadership in climate action while balancing development needs, exemplified through initiatives like International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). These pledges align with SDG-13 (Climate Action) and position India as a key player in global climate governance.
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