1 November 2021.
Introduction:
India officially endorsed a website made by Indian climate experts, listing the historical carbon dioxide emissions of developed countries.
Highlights
- India endorsed the emission list ahead of commencement of the 26th United Nations Conference of Parties (COP) in Glasgow in Scotland.
- Emission list was created with the aim of highlighting the disparity between the emissions of developed and developing countries.
- Countries like the United States, Australia, Canada & countries in Western Europe are shown as having a net carbon debt on the other hand, developing countries like India & China are having net credit.
- Thus, the database highlights that, it is only fair that developed countries should commit to steeper targets for curbing emissions as compared to developing countries.
Where does India stand?
- India is the third largest emitter of carbon emissions on yearly basis.
- However, it is the sixth largest with respect to its historical emissions.
- When the size of its population is considered, it is among the lowest per capita emitters.
- This highlights India’s demands for climate justice as focus of the negotiations and its reluctance to agree for a fixed time frame in a bid to reach net zero. India is the only important emitter that has not committed to a net zero target.
What is the purpose of website?
Website seeks to debunk the narrative provided by several developed countries, and global non-government organisations which focus on what developing countries must do.
Climate Equity Monitor
- The website is called as “Climate Equity Monitor”.
- This scientific initiative focusses on equity and climate action from a data & evidence-based perspective, which in turn will encourage discussions on crucial issues.
- On the website, performance & policies of Non-Annex-I Parties (developing countries) will be also provided to compare.