India's 7.93% Drop in GHG Emissions: Progress Toward a Climate-Resilient Future
India has emerged as a global leader in climate action with its ambitious commitments and measurable progress in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The recent 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) revealed a remarkable 7.93% reduction in GHG emissions in 2020 compared to 2019, marking a critical milestone on its path toward net-zero emissions by 2070. Global Climate Goals and India’s Role The UNFCCC, established in 1994, serves as a framework for international efforts to combat climate change. The 2015 Paris Agreement reinforced these efforts by aiming to limit global temperature increases to below 2°C and striving for 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. India’s climate action plan is guided by the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR), recognizing its historical emissions share of only 4% between 1850 and 2019, despite housing 17% of the global population. At COP26, India pledged to: Achie...