Test: Contemporary Issues and Emerging Trends - CLAT PG MCQ

Climate litigation aims primarily to hold governments and corporations accountable for their actions regarding climate change. This legal approach seeks to enforce existing climate commitments and push for more robust environmental policies. A notable example includes the Urgenda Foundation case, where a Dutch court mandated significant emissions reductions from the government.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is the primary body in India that deals with climate-related disputes. It addresses issues like air pollution and deforestation, ensuring environmental laws are upheld. The NGT has taken significant actions, such as banning old diesel vehicles in Delhi to combat air pollution.

The ESG framework is designed to guide corporations towards sustainable practices that minimize environmental harm, promote social welfare, and ensure ethical governance. This includes reducing emissions, ensuring fair labor practices, and maintaining transparency, which are essential in today's corporate landscape.

The NAFCC is aimed at funding projects that help communities adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as improving resilience to floods or droughts. This fund is crucial for enabling local populations to manage and mitigate the effects of climate-induced challenges effectively.

The Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme encourages industries to enhance energy efficiency, allowing them to earn tradeable energy savings certificates. This system is integral to establishing a carbon market in India, promoting reduced carbon emissions and fostering a culture of sustainability among industries.

Climate justice emphasizes the need for policies that protect marginalized communities disproportionately affected by climate change. This includes ensuring equitable access to resources and compensation for those suffering from climate-induced disasters, thus highlighting the ethical dimensions of environmental policy.

The Companies Act, 2013 mandates that large companies in India spend a portion of their profits on CSR activities. This includes initiatives like afforestation and clean energy projects, playing a critical role in enhancing corporate accountability towards social and environmental responsibilities.

The Draft EIA Notification, 2020 proposed controversial changes, including exemptions for specific projects from EIA requirements. Critics argued that these changes weaken environmental protections, potentially leading to detrimental impacts on ecosystems and communities.

The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) serves as a leading example of a carbon market where companies trade emission allowances to achieve strict reduction targets. This system is a model for other countries aiming to implement similar carbon trading schemes, emphasizing the global shift towards regulated emissions reductions.

Biodegradable plastics are designed to decompose naturally, reducing their environmental impact compared to traditional plastics. Innovations in this area are crucial for addressing plastic pollution, with some startups in India leading the way in developing biodegradable alternatives for various applications. This shift is essential for promoting sustainable waste management practices.