Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held in Glasgow in November 2021, was a pivotal moment in global climate action. Building on the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C, COP26 aimed to accelerate efforts towards achieving these targets. The conference took place amidst escalating climate impacts worldwide, increasing pressure on nations to enhance their commitments. This answer will detail the major outcomes of COP26 and the specific commitments made by India during the conference.
Major Outcomes of COP26
COP26 resulted in several key outcomes, though many fell short of the ambition needed to meet the 1.5°C target.
- Mitigation: The Glasgow Climate Pact reaffirmed the 1.5°C temperature goal and urged countries to revisit and strengthen their 2030 emissions reduction targets (NDCs) by the end of 2022. A key outcome was the agreement to ‘phase down’ rather than ‘phase out’ coal, a compromise due to resistance from coal-dependent nations.
- Adaptation: COP26 saw increased focus on adaptation, with developed countries agreeing to at least double adaptation finance to developing countries from 2019 levels by 2025. However, the exact amount and delivery mechanisms remain a challenge.
- Finance: Developed countries finally delivered on their long-standing pledge to mobilize $100 billion per year in climate finance for developing countries, though this was delayed until 2023. There was also progress on operationalizing the Loss and Damage fund (discussed below).
- Loss and Damage: A significant achievement was the establishment of a Loss and Damage fund to assist vulnerable developing countries facing irreversible impacts of climate change. The details of the fund’s operation, including funding sources and disbursement mechanisms, were to be worked out in subsequent meetings.
- Carbon Markets (Article 6): Rules for international carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement were finalized, aiming to promote cost-effective emissions reductions. However, concerns remain about ensuring environmental integrity and avoiding double counting.
India’s Commitments at COP26
India made several significant commitments at COP26, demonstrating its commitment to climate action while also emphasizing the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC).
- Net-Zero Target: Prime Minister Modi announced India’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. This ambitious target signals a long-term shift towards a low-carbon economy.
- Updated NDC: India updated its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), increasing its emission intensity reduction target from 35% to 45% by 2030, relative to 2005 levels. It also committed to achieving about 50% cumulative installed power generation capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
- Renewable Energy Target: India raised its renewable energy target to 500 GW by 2030, a substantial increase from its previous target.
- Green Hydrogen Mission: India launched the National Hydrogen Mission, aiming to become a global hub for the production and export of green hydrogen.
- Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE): India proposed the ‘Lifestyle for Environment’ (LiFE) movement, encouraging sustainable lifestyles and consumption patterns globally.
- Coal Phase-Down: India played a key role in advocating for the ‘phase down’ of coal, rather than a complete ‘phase out’, recognizing its developmental needs and reliance on coal for energy security.
| Commitment | Details |
|---|---|
| Net-Zero Emissions | By 2070 |
| Emission Intensity Reduction | 45% by 2030 (from 2005 levels) |
| Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity | About 50% by 2030 |
| Renewable Energy Target | 500 GW by 2030 |
Conclusion
COP26 marked a step forward in global climate action, particularly with the establishment of the Loss and Damage fund and the increased focus on adaptation. However, the commitments made are still insufficient to limit warming to 1.5°C. India’s commitments, particularly its net-zero target and increased renewable energy ambitions, demonstrate its willingness to contribute to global efforts. The success of COP26 and India’s commitments will depend on their effective implementation and continued ambition in the years to come, requiring significant investment, technological innovation, and international cooperation.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.