Climate Responsibility Crisis: Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav Urges Developed Nations to Act Now – The Tribune

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav recently called out developed nations for dodging their climate change responsibilities. He spoke at the Himalaya Environment Dialogue in Haridwar, emphasizing that while India is often criticized for its carbon emissions, developed countries contribute far more.

Yadav pointed out that developed nations account for about 60% of global emissions, while India makes up only 4.5–5%. With COP 30 approaching in Brazil this November, many major countries, including India, have not yet announced their climate goals. So far, only 37 out of 195 countries have updated their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) as required by the Paris Agreement.

India made its first NDC commitment in 2015, aiming to cut emissions intensity by 33–35% by 2030 and to generate 40% of its electric power from non-fossil sources. Yadav noted that India has already met two of its targets nine years ahead of schedule, including the promise to create a carbon sink of 3.3 billion tonnes.

Interestingly, Nicaragua has just submitted its NDC to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The European Union has reduced its carbon emissions by 37% but is still working on its updated NDC. They plan to finalize their 2040 targets before the next climate conference.

Experts highlight the urgency for all nations, especially developed ones, to hold themselves accountable. The stakes are high; according to a recent survey, 66% of people globally believe that without immediate action, climate change will significantly worsen in the coming years.

The conversation around climate accountability is vital as countries prepare for COP 30. Looking back, it’s clear that while promises were made in the Paris Agreement, timely action is what truly matters. Just as Yadav mentioned, equitable access to energy is crucial for a dignified life, especially for the Global South.

For more detailed information about climate commitments and current data, you can check the UNFCCC website.

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