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What is the news?

 

• • The 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), known as COP 28, is now taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 12, 2023.

 

What does COP 28 stand for?

 

• • COP 28 stands for the 28th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UNFCCC. The “parties” are the countries that signed up to the original UN climate agreement in 1992.

 

Here are a few highlights:

 

Cop28 will focus on four themes:

 

• • Fast-tracking the energy transition: a focus on renewable energy, as well as food and agricultural systems.

• • Climate finance solutions: aims to prioritise the Global South in adaptation finance and help vulnerable communities rebuild after climate disasters.

• • Nature, people, lives, and livelihoods: geared towards food systems, nature-based solutions, and protecting against extreme weather events and biodiversity loss.

• • Inclusivity in climate management: a focus on youth involvement and improved communication between different sectors and agencies.

 

Objectives:

 

• • Drive the global transition to a low-emission, climate-resilient world.

• • Encourage bold climate action and make it easier to put it into effect.

• • Attain the Paris Agreement’s targets, including keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius and pursuing efforts to keep it below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

 

 

Important Issues and Discussions:

 

• • Mitigation is the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through aggressive Nationally Determined Contribution(NDCs) and the acceleration of the transition to clean energy.

• • Adaptation: Increasing the resilience of vulnerable communities and ecosystems to the effects of climate change.

• • Mobilizing financial resources from rich to developing countries to promote climate action.

• • Addressing the economic and non-economic losses and harms caused by climate change, particularly in developing countries.

• • Technology: Encouraging the development and transfer of environmentally friendly technology.

• • Gender and Climate Change: Including gender equality and women’s empowerment in climate action.

• • Forestry and Land Use: Conserving carbon sinks by protecting forests and encouraging sustainable land management practices.

 

 

Key Results and Initiatives:

 

• • Joining the Global Methane Pledge to cut global methane emissions by 30% by 2030 compared to 2020 levels.

• • Adaptation efforts Agenda: Launching an Adaptation Action Agenda to expedite and scale up adaptation efforts.

• • Climate Investment Funds: Refilling the Climate Investment Funds to assist developing nations in making the transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient economies.

• • Loss and Damage Fund: Creating a new Loss and Damage Fund to provide developing nations with financial support for economic and non-economic losses and damages caused by climate change.

• • Launching a Just Transition Initiative to assist workers and communities in making the transition to a low-carbon economy.

 

 

First global stocktake (GST) was conducted :

 

• • The first global stocktake (GST) concludes at COP28. (Established under Article 14 of the Paris Agreement, the GST is designed to periodically assess the world’s collective progress in addressing the climate crisis.)

• • The world is not on track to reach the Paris Agreement’s goals.

 

GST: a turning point in climate action?

• • The GST assesses global progress toward the Paris Agreement’s goals.

• • Significant progress has been made, but there is still work to be done.

 

A strong emphasis on the effects of climate change:

• • The operationalization of the loss and damage fund, as well as the Paris Agreement’s global target for adaptation, are critical challenges.
  • Adaptation financing falls short of needs, thus unambiguous signs of intent are required.

 

Is it past time to phase out fossil fuels?

• • The phase-out of fossil fuels is critical for tackling climate change.

• • The UNFCCC is under increasing pressure to solve the issue.

 

Diverging perspectives on carbon capture and storage (CCS):

• • The role and potential of CCS technology will almost certainly be a source of debate.

• • The phase-out of coal, oil, and gas production and consumption is a top goal.

 

Debate over the energy package:

• • The phase-out of fossil fuels is part of a larger energy package.

• • Renewable energy and energy efficiency targets are also being discussed.

 

Renewable Energy Goal:

• • At the G20 Leaders’ Summit, G20 nations committed to treble global renewable energy capacity.

• • This is a significant step toward a COP agreement on a renewable energy objective.

 

Concentration on Food Systems and Agriculture:

• • To link national food systems and agricultural policies with climate goals, the COP28 Food Systems and Agriculture Agenda was developed.

• • Food systems account for one-third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions.

 

India in COP28:

 

• • Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the COP-28 Presidency’s Session on “Transforming Climate Finance” on 1 December 2023 in Dubai, UAE. The event focussed on making climate finance more available, accessible, and affordable to developing countries.

• • During the session, the leaders adopted the “UAE Declaration on a New Global Climate Finance Framework”. The declaration includes elements on, inter alia, delivering on commitments and achieving ambitious outcomes and widening the sources of concessional finance for climate action.

Significance for India:

• • India is a developing country that is particularly sensitive to the effects of climate change.

 

COP 28 gives India the option to:

• • Encourage developed countries to take more ambitious climate action.

• • Obtain financial and technological assistance for its own climate action.

• • Collaborate in joint initiatives with other developing countries.

• • Address its own climate change vulnerability through adaptation methods.

 

 

Prime Minister shared:

 

• • Offers to host the 33rd COP in India in 2028, pushing industrialised countries to eliminate carbon emissions by 2050.The plan to host the COP requires UNFCCC signatories’ permission, and if accepted, it will be India’s second hosting after 2002.Typically venues for future COP are only decided two years in advance.

• • Supports India’s “Green Credit initiative,” a non-profit endeavour to develop a carbon sink.
  • Modi criticises the exploitation of nature by a few, which has a global impact, particularly in the Global South.

• • The Green Credit scheme is described as non-commercial, with the goal of incentivizing voluntary environmental initiatives across sectors.

• • The global Green Credit scheme generates credits for waste-land plants in order to revitalise natural ecosystems.

• • Reiterates India’s COP-26 pledges, including reducing emissions intensity and reaching net zero by 2070.

• • The Loss and Damage Fund, with over $500 million in financial commitments, was approved by COP-28.

• • Applauds the UAE’s $30 billion Climate Investment Fund and demands for the completion of a new climate finance target (NCQG).

• • Highlights industrialised countries’ contributions to the GCF and the Adaptation Fund, advocating carbon footprint reduction by 2050.

 

 

India Refuses to Sign COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health:

 

• • India has opted not to sign the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health, a document that links health impacts to climate change and outlines commitments to reducing emissions in the health sector. Representatives from the Indian delegation cited concerns about the practicality of implementing the declaration’s commitments within the country’s current healthcare infrastructure.

 

Here are the key reasons why India refused to sign the declaration:

 

1. Concerns over Curbing Greenhouse Gas Use in Healthcare:

• • The declaration emphasizes the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the healthcare sector, particularly from cooling technologies used in hospitals and other medical facilities. However, India expressed concerns that implementing such measures in the short term could hinder the ability to meet the growing demand for healthcare services, especially in remote and underserved areas. Many hospitals in India rely on fossil fuels for energy, and replacing them with renewable alternatives would require significant investment and infrastructure upgrades.

 

2. Lack of Practicality in the Short Term:

• • India argued that achieving the ambitious goals outlined in the declaration would be impractical within the country’s current healthcare infrastructure and resource limitations. Implementing the necessary changes would require significant financial and technological support, which India claims is not readily available. Additionally, the vastness and diverse geography of India pose unique challenges in terms of implementing uniform healthcare policies and ensuring equitable access to sustainable healthcare solutions.

 

3. Focus on Existing Commitments:

• • India highlighted its existing commitments to addressing climate change, including the Global Methane Pledge and the International Solar Alliance. The government argued that focusing efforts and resources on implementing these existing commitments would yield more tangible results in the short term.

 

4. Need for Differentiated Approach:

• • India emphasized the need for a differentiated approach to climate action, recognizing the varying circumstances and capacities of different countries. They argued that developed countries with greater resources should bear more responsibility for reducing emissions and providing financial and technological assistance to developing countries like India.

 

5. Focus on Adaptation and Resilience:

• • India emphasized the importance of prioritizing adaptation and resilience measures to address the immediate impacts of climate change on health. They advocated for increased investments in climate-resilient healthcare infrastructure and early warning systems to protect vulnerable populations.

 

6. Lack of Consensus on Specific Targets:

• • The declaration lacked specific, quantifiable targets for emission reductions in the health sector. India argued that such targets should be established through a more inclusive and consultative process, considering the diverse needs and capacities of different countries.

 

7. Reservations about Regulatory Overreach:

• • The declaration outlined potential regulatory measures to control greenhouse gas emissions in the health sector. India expressed concerns that such measures could lead to bureaucratic hurdles and hinder the efficient delivery of healthcare services.

 

8. Need for Further Research and Development:

• • India stressed the need for further research and development of affordable and efficient clean energy technologies specifically tailored to the needs of the healthcare sector. They argued that such technologies are crucial for achieving long-term sustainability in the healthcare sector without compromising healthcare services.

 

9. Balancing Public Health and Climate Goals:

• • India emphasized the need to find a balance between public health needs and climate goals. They argued that any climate action measures should prioritize the well-being of citizens and ensure equitable access to healthcare services, even in the face of climate challenges.

 

10. Importance of International Cooperation:

• • India acknowledged the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate change and its impact on health. They called for enhanced collaboration and knowledge sharing among countries to develop effective and sustainable solutions for a healthy planet and population.

 

• The Indian government’s decision to not sign the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health highlights the complex challenges and diverse perspectives surrounding climate action in the healthcare sector. While India recognizes the importance of addressing climate change and its impact on health, they prioritize practical and sustainable solutions that do not compromise the fundamental right to healthcare for all.
• It is important to note that this is a developing story and more information may emerge in the coming days. It is also important to remember that there are diverse perspectives on this issue, and this summary represents only one viewpoint.

 

What is the ‘loss and damage’ fund in the context of COP 28?

 

• • The “loss and damage” fund, as used in the context of COP 28, refers to a financial system intended to pay developing countries for permanent losses and damages caused by climate change. These losses and damages might be economic (e.g., agricultural loss due to drought, infrastructure damage from extreme weather events), social (e.g., displacement owing to rising sea levels, loss of cultural heritage), or environmental (e.g., biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation).

• • Developed countries, who have historically been the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, have been pressed to provide financial aid to poor countries that are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The “loss and damage” fund is a key step towards addressing this issue and recognising industrialised nations’ historical obligation.

 

Important information concerning the “loss and damage” fund:

 

• • Officially revealed at COP 28, marking a significant milestone in climate negotiations.

• • The goal of this initiative is to provide financial support to developing countries in order to address the irreparable losses and damages caused by climate change.
    The source of financing for the “loss and damage” fund is currently being debated. Contributions from developed countries, redirection of existing climate funds, and creative financing systems are all options.

• • Eligibility: The “loss and damage” fund will be available to developing countries. The eligibility criteria and distribution techniques will be refined.

• • The “loss and damage” fund is regarded as a watershed moment in climate justice, recognising the disproportionate burden that developing countries endure as a result of climate change.

• • Several obstacles remain, including obtaining adequate money, defining clear qualifying criteria, and guaranteeing effective and transparent implementation.

• • The “loss and damage” fund has given developing countries hope as they grapple with the severe effects of climate change. However, its success will be determined by how well it is implemented and how well it overcomes numerous hurdles.

 

What exactly is COP?

• • The Conference of the Parties, or COP, is a global platform for climate action.

 

Introduction:

• • The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)’s highest decision-making body. It is an annual international gathering at which governments debate climate change challenges, negotiate agreements, and assess progress in implementing existing commitments.

 

History:

• • 1992: The UNFCCC is adopted at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. This treaty establishes the framework for international cooperation on climate change.

• • 1995: The first COP is held in Berlin, Germany. It marks the entry into force of the UNFCCC and establishes the Subsidiary Bodies for Implementation (SBI) and Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA).

• • 1997: The Kyoto Protocol is adopted in Kyoto, Japan. This treaty sets binding emission reduction targets for developed countries.

• • 2001: The COP in Marrakech, Morocco, establishes the Marrakech Accords, which operationalize the Kyoto Protocol.

• • 2007: The Bali Action Plan is adopted at the COP in Bali, Indonesia. This plan sets a roadmap for negotiating a new international climate agreement.

• • 2009: The Copenhagen Accord is adopted at the COP in Copenhagen, Denmark. This accord establishes a long-term goal of limiting global warming to 2°C above pre-industrial levels.

• • 2010: The Cancun Agreements are adopted at the COP in Cancun, Mexico. These agreements establish a framework for climate finance and technology transfer to developing countries.

• • 2011: The Durban Platform for Enhanced Action is adopted at the COP in Durban, South Africa. This platform launches negotiations for a new, universal climate agreement.

• • 2015: The Paris Agreement is adopted at the COP in Paris, France. This landmark agreement sets a goal of limiting global warming to well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C, above pre-industrial levels.

• • 2018: The Katowice Climate Package is adopted at the COP in Katowice, Poland. This package establishes key rules for implementing the Paris Agreement.

• • 2021: The Glasgow Climate Pact is adopted at the COP in Glasgow, Scotland. This pact strengthens global efforts to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change.

• • 2023: The first global stocktake (GST) concludes at COP28, Dubai.

 

COP’s Primary Functions:

• • Examine how the UNFCCC and its related accords are being implemented.

• • New agreements and decisions must be negotiated.

• • Provide countries with instructions on how to carry out their commitments.

• • Facilitate technology and financial transfer to poor countries.

• • Track and evaluate progress in combating climate change.

 

The COP’s Impact:

• • The COP has been critical in moving the global response to climate change forward. It has resulted in the adoption of major agreements, such as the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement, which set countries’ binding carbon reduction objectives.

• • The COP has also aided in raising climate change awareness and mobilizing resources for climate action.

 

Opportunities and Challenges:

• • Despite progress, the globe faces tremendous obstacles in combating climate change. Emissions continue to rise, and the effects of climate change are already being seen globally. If we are to avert the worst effects of climate change, the COP must continue to seek to increase global ambition and speed action.

 

Conclusion:

• • The COP is a critical platform for international climate change cooperation. It provides a forum for countries to debate common concerns, share best practices, and cooperate toward a more sustainable future. The success of the COP and its efforts to address climate change is critical to the future of the planet.

QuizTime:

 

When and where is COP 28 being held?

a) November 30 – December 12, 2023, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
b) October 28 – November 11, 2023, Glasgow, Scotland
c) September 15 – October 25, 2023, Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
d) December 1 – 12, 2023, Paris, France

• • Answer: a) November 30 – December 12, 2023, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

 

What is the key objective of the Global Methane Pledge?

a) To reduce global methane emissions by 50% by 2030
b) To completely eliminate methane emissions by 2050
c) To accelerate the development of methane capture and storage technologies
d) To reduce global methane emissions by 30% by 2030 compared to 2020 levels

• • Answer: d) To reduce global methane emissions by 30% by 2030 compared to 2020 levels

 

What is the purpose of the Loss and Damage Fund?

a) To provide financial assistance to developed countries for the economic and non-economic losses and damages caused by climate change
b) To support the development and transfer of climate-friendly technologies
c) To promote sustainable land management practices
d) To address the economic and non-economic losses and damages caused by climate change, particularly in developing countries

• • Answer: d) To address the economic and non-economic losses and damages caused by climate change, particularly in developing countries

 

Why is COP 28 significant for India?

a) India is a key player in global climate negotiations.
b) India is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
c) India can secure financial and technological support for its own climate action.
d) All of the above.

• • Answer: d) All of the above.

 

Why is staying informed about COP 28 important for UPSC aspirants?

a) It demonstrates a strong understanding of current global affairs.
b) It allows them to analyze the significance of COP 28 for India and the world.
c) It helps them prepare for potential questions in the UPSC Civil Services Exam.
d) All of the above.

• • Answer: d) All of the above.

 

Mains Questions:

 

Critically analyze the key outcomes of COP 28, highlighting the significant progress and remaining challenges in addressing climate change. How can these outcomes be translated into concrete actions at the national and international levels?

 

Model Answer:

 

• • COP 28 brought several key outcomes, including the Global Methane Pledge, the Action Agenda for Adaptation, the replenishment of the Climate Investment Funds, and the establishment of a Loss and Damage Fund. These outcomes represent significant progress in addressing climate change and demonstrate a renewed commitment from the international community. However, several challenges remain, including the need for more ambitious emissions reduction targets, increased financial and technological support for developing countries, and effective implementation of agreed-upon actions.
  • To translate these outcomes into concrete actions, countries must develop robust national climate action plans aligned with their NDC commitments. This includes investing in renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, promoting sustainable land use practices, and building resilience to climate impacts. At the international level, countries need to strengthen cooperation and collaboration, including through the sharing of best practices, technology transfer, and financial assistance. Additionally, effective monitoring and reporting mechanisms are crucial to ensure that countries are fulfilling their commitments and achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.

 

Discuss the specific challenges and opportunities faced by India in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. How can COP 28 outcomes be leveraged to support India’s climate action goals?

 

Model Answer:

 

• • India faces several challenges in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, including its dependence on fossil fuels, a growing energy demand, and limited access to clean technologies. However, India also has significant opportunities to leapfrog to a cleaner future, including its abundant renewable energy resources and a rapidly growing economy.
  • COP 28 outcomes such as the Global Methane Pledge and the Just Transition Initiative can be leveraged to support India’s climate action goals. The Global Methane Pledge can help India reduce its methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, from sectors like agriculture and waste. The Just Transition Initiative can provide financial and technical assistance to support workers and communities transitioning away from fossil fuels towards clean energy sectors. Additionally, India can actively engage in international cooperation initiatives to access clean technologies and best practices for low-carbon development.
  • By leveraging these opportunities and addressing the challenges, India can achieve a sustainable and low-carbon economic growth trajectory, contributing significantly to global climate action.

 

Relevance to the Prelims and Mains syllabus under the following topics:

 

Prelims:

General Studies Paper-I (Current Affairs):

• • Understanding contemporary international relations.
  • Important events that have occurred internationally.
  • Major international organizations and their structures.
  • Key developments in the field of science and technology.

 

General Studies Paper-III (Environment and Ecology):

• • Issues related to global and national climate change.
  • Impact of climate change on different ecosystems and human communities.
  • International conventions and agreements on climate change.
  • Global initiatives and partnerships on climate change.

Mains:

General Studies Paper-III (Environment and Ecology):

• • Sustainable development and climate change.
  • Environmental challenges facing India and the world.
  • Environmental policies and initiatives of the Indian government.
  • International environmental agreements and their relevance to India.

 

General Studies Paper-IV (Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude):

• Case studies on ethical dilemmas related to environmental protection and climate change.
• Ability to analyze and evaluate environmental policies and initiatives.
• Leadership and decision-making in the context of environmental challenges.

 

Optional Subjects:

• • Depending on the chosen optional subject (e.g., Geography, Public Administration, Sociology), the syllabus may also cover aspects related to climate change, sustainable development, and environmental policy.

 

Specific Topics Related to COP 28:

• • Key outcomes of COP 28, including the Global Methane Pledge, the Action Agenda for Adaptation, the Climate Investment Funds, and the Loss and Damage Fund.
  • Significance of COP 28 for India, including its vulnerability to climate change and its need for financial and technological support for its own climate action.
  • Challenges and opportunities faced by India in transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
  • Potential implications of COP 28 for global diplomacy and international cooperation on climate change.
    Balancing India’s development needs with its climate action commitments.