The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) mandates that nations submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to tackle the severe concerns that climate change and rising temperatures pose to life on Earth. In response, during the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP 26) in 2021, India promised to reach net-zero emissions by 2070. According to India's 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4), GHG emissions decreased by 7.93% in 2020 over 2019.It showcases India's dedication towards a sustainable, climate-resilient future.

 

With effect from March 21, 1994, the UNFCCC seeks to advance international collaboration on climate change and long-term climate finance while stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations.195 nations ratified the Paris Agreement at the 21st session of the UNFCCC's Conference of the Parties (COP21), which was held in Paris in 2015. In addition to pursuing efforts to restrict the increase to 1.5°C and peak greenhouse gas emissions as soon as feasible, the pact seeks to keep the increase in the global average temperature over pre-industrial levels to well below 2°C. On November 4, 2016, it came into effect, mandating that nations submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) detailing their climate goals.

 

To monitor progress, India provides the UNFCCC with Biennial Update Reports (BURs) every two years. These reports outline the support received, including efforts to cut emissions, update the national GHG inventories, and describe mitigation initiatives.

 

Emission Reductions and Climate Commitments

 

On December 30, 2024, India sent the UNFCCC its 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4). According to the data, overall GHG emissions in 2020 were 7.93% lower than those in 2019. India's emissions, excluding Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF), came to 2,959 million tonnes of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent, a metric used to quantify the effects of greenhouse gases). Net emissions, including LULUCF, came to 2,437 million tons of CO2e. Together with other land uses, the energy sector was the largest contributor, accounting for 75.66% of emissions. This helped sequester over 522 million tonnes of CO2, which is comparable to 22% of the nation's total emissions.

 

India’s Climate Achievements and Progress

• Reduced GHG Emission Intensity per unit of GDP by 35%(2005 to 2020)

• Increase of 45.52% of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources(by October 2024)

• Forest and tree cover increased to 25.17% of total land area(2005-2021)

These initiatives, which are founded on justice and the tenets of the Paris Agreement, demonstrate India's dedication to tackling its own circumstances while halting climate change.

 

With an emphasis on sustainable growth and creative solutions, India is moving closer to a carbon-neutral future. India is taking important steps to cut greenhouse gas emissions, such as planting Miyawaki trees at Mahakumbh 2025 and adopting its Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy. A future that is climate resilient is made possible by these initiatives, which guarantee balanced growth and environmental responsibility.