Introduction

The global framework for combating climate change has long been criticized for its inefficacy and inequity. Despite ambitious targets, the world has consistently fallen short, prompting a critical reassessment. The Economic Survey 2023-24 of India boldly challenges the status quo, highlighting the systemic flaws and suggesting alternative approaches focused on resilience and equity.

The Ineffectiveness of Current Strategies

• The international community’s preoccupation with achieving the 1.5- or 2-degree Celsius temperature targets has placed undue pressure on developing nations.
• This focus has diverted resources from immediate needs, such as improving living standards.
• The Economic Survey argues for a paradigm shift, proposing that Adaptation should receive equal, if not greater, emphasis than Mitigation.
• The Survey suggests that it is possible to envision a warmer world that is more equitable and resilient compared to one where the 1.5-degree target is achieved at all costs.
• The argument is that the relentless focus on stringent temperature targets forces developing nations to make choices they are not prepared for, compromising their immediate development goals.

The Case for Adaptation

• As climate impacts become increasingly unavoidable, the Survey suggests that rapid improvements in income and overall well-being are the best defenses against climate change.
• This view challenges the arbitrary nature of the 1.5- and 2-degree thresholds, which do not mark distinct points of climate impact but are rather chosen benchmarks.
• The Economic Survey asserts that these thresholds do not represent natural limits where climate impacts only begin; instead, the intensity of impacts increases progressively with rising temperatures.
• The Survey advocates for Prioritizing Adaptation Measures that can help communities become more resilient to the inevitable impacts of climate change.
• This includes improving Infrastructure, enhancing Disaster Preparedness, and ensuring that economic development aligns with climate resilience.

Inequities in the Global Climate Framework

• The Survey articulates the frustration of developing countries with the developed world’s hypocrisy.
• The United States, for instance, has the largest historical responsibility for emissions yet has lagged in reduction efforts.
• The developed nations have also failed to meet their commitments to provide financial and technological support to developing countries.
• The Survey highlights that the developed world’s narrative has often been more about maintaining their dominance rather than genuinely addressing climate change.
• The Economic Survey critiques the dismantling of the Kyoto Protocol, which was more equitable and effective in addressing climate change.
• The shift to the Paris Agreement is seen as a move to a system that favors the developed world, perpetuating existing global inequalities.

Alternative Approaches

The Economic Survey’s critique extends to proposing actionable steps for India and other developing nations. These include:

1. Building Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: While efforts are underway, such as the Central Vista redevelopment and new railway stations, the pace and scale of these projects need acceleration.These initiatives should be designed to withstand future climate impacts and serve as models of sustainable development.
2. Enhancing Urban Planning: The Smart City initiative, launched nine years ago, incorporates elements of climate proofing. However, many cities still struggle with basic infrastructure issues like sewage management.There is a need for comprehensive urban planning that integrates climate resilience into every aspect of city development.
3. Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles: India’s Mission LIFE, which advocates for lifestyle and behavioral changes to reduce emissions, must evolve into a mass movement. Highlighting over-consumption in developed countries has limited impact when similar behaviors are prevalent among the wealthy in India. A shift towards sustainable consumption and production patterns is essential.
4. Fostering Technological Innovation: Investing in green technologies and renewable energy sources is crucial. India has made significant strides in solar energy, but more needs to be done to scale up renewable energy infrastructure and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
5. Strengthening International Cooperation: Developing countries must continue to push for fairer climate agreements that recognize historical emissions and provide adequate support for adaptation and mitigation. This includes advocating for increased financial and technical assistance from developed nations.

A Call for a Fair and Resilient Future

• The Economic Survey underscores the need for a more equitable approach to climate action.
• It envisions a warmer yet more resilient and equitable world, where adaptation and development take center stage.
• The Survey’s arguments resonate widely in the developing world, calling for a shift from the current climate architecture that perpetuates existing global inequities.

Conclusion

The Economic Survey challenges the global community to rethink its approach to climate change. By prioritizing adaptation and equity, developing countries can better protect their populations and ensure a sustainable future.