The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 8th July 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

 A Law Around Low-Carbon Climate Resilient Development 

Why in News?

In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India recently recognised a right to be “free from the adverse impacts of climate change” in M.K. Ranjitsinh and Others vs Union of India— sourcing it from the right to life and the right to equality. In a previous article on this page in this daily, “Court on climate right and how India can enforce it” (July 1, 2024), we argued that while this is indeed an important step in establishing climate jurisprudence in India, it raises the very important question of just how this right will be protected.

Low Carbon Action Plan (LCAP)

About:

• The LCAP is a strategic document developed to address challenges of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and promote sustainable waste management.
• Specifically tailored to Bihar, it outlines a roadmap for reducing emissions from the waste and domestic wastewater sectors, aiming for the state's goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2070.

Components:

1. Assessment and Inventory:

   • Conducts a thorough assessment of existing waste management infrastructure, including solid waste and domestic wastewater sectors.
   • Involves collecting data on waste generation, treatment methods, and GHG emissions.

2. Identification of Key Issues:

   • Identifies challenges such as inadequate sewage collection and treatment, poor waste segregation, and unmanaged solid waste disposal.

3. Setting Targets and Goals:

   • Establishes ambitious targets for emission reductions and waste management improvements.
   • Targets are set for different timeframes, including 2030, 2050, and 2070.

4. Intervention Strategies:

   • Proposes low-carbon interventions and recommendations.
   • Strategies include improving waste segregation at the source, enhancing collection and transportation systems, implementing efficient treatment technologies, and promoting methane recovery from wastewater.

5. Community Engagement and Policy Enforcement:

   • Success relies on active participation from stakeholders including government agencies, local communities, and private sector entities.
   • Essential policy-driven enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with waste management regulations and promote sustainable practices.

Benefits of Low Carbon Action Plans (LCAPs)

• Combating Climate Change: Reduces emissions that trap heat in the atmosphere, helping to slow global warming.
• Mitigating Extreme Weather: Addresses issues like extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and harm to ecosystems.

Public Health Benefits:

• Improved Air Quality: Reducing reliance on fossil fuels improves air quality, leading to fewer respiratory illnesses.
• Encouraging Physical Activity: Promotes walking, cycling, and public transport, boosting physical activity levels.

Economic Benefits:

• Job Creation: Investing in renewable energy sources and energy efficiency can create new jobs.
• Cost Savings: Long-term savings from reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Challenges of Low Carbon Action Plans (LCAPs)

• Initial Investment: Shifting to renewable energy sources or energy-efficient technologies requires significant initial investment.
• Lifestyle Changes: May require changes in how people live and work, such as increased use of public transport or reduced driving, which can meet resistance.
• Sustained Effort: Low carbon plans need time and consistent effort to show results. Political resistance may arise, especially from powerful industries.
• Fair Transition: Ensuring the transition to a low carbon economy benefits everyone and doesn't place an unequal burden on disadvantaged groups.