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GS Paper: GS1-14.Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.,

  • At COP 28, a chance to get past fear-mongering

    How Can Climate Action Be Inclusive? | Global Climate Change

    Central idea

    The article emphasizes that climate change action is essential for economic sustainability and counters the notion that it is unaffordable. It highlights the impact of fossil fuels on the cost-of-living crisis and advocates for redirecting funds from fossil fuel subsidies to renewable energy. The author calls for international cooperation at COP28 to triple renewable energy capacity, double energy efficiency, and address climate justice concerns.

    Key Highlights:

    • Global Cost-of-Living Crisis: Inflation’s widespread impact on billions globally, prompting a false narrative of green initiatives against the interests of the poor.
    • Fossil Fuels and Economic Strain: Fossil fuels, a major driver of the cost-of-living crisis, contribute to economic strain, affecting household budgets and impeding growth.
    • Worsening Climate Disasters: Amid rising costs, climate disasters intensify, causing economic damage and affecting millions globally.

    Key Challenges:

    • Fossil Fuel Dependency: Persistent reliance on fossil fuels remains a significant hurdle to addressing the cost-of-living crisis and mitigating climate change.
    • Government Spending on Subsidies: Trillions spent on fossil fuel subsidies divert funds from essential services and hinder investments in renewable energy.

    Key Terms:

    • Cost-of-Living Crisis: Global economic strain exacerbated by inflation.
    • Fossil Fuel Subsidies: Government financial support to the fossil fuel industry.
    • Renewable Energy: Sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.
    • Climate Disasters: Increasingly severe climate-related events.
    • Energy Access: Ensuring access to reliable and affordable energy.

    Key Phrases for value addition:

    • “Green versus poor” Narrative: Misleading rhetoric obscuring the need for a sustainable future.
    • “Fossil fuel taps can’t be turned off overnight”: Recognizing the gradual nature of transitioning from fossil fuels.
    • “Global Stocktake on climate action”: Assessment of progress and tools to speed up climate action.
    • “Tripling the world’s renewable energy capacity”: Ambitious goals for renewable energy expansion.
    • “Fear Mongering”: Misleading tactics to discourage climate action.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Impact of Fossil Fuel Prices: Household bills rising up to $1,000 in 2022.
    • Government Spending: Trillions spent globally on fossil fuel subsidies in 2022.

    Key Facts:

    • Climate Predictions: This year projected to be the hottest in 125,000 years.
    • Inflation Impact: Disproportionately affecting the poorest households.
    • Fossil Fuel Subsidies: Diverting funds from essential services and renewable energy projects.

    Key Data:

    • Global Spending on Subsidies: Trillions allocated to fossil fuel subsidies.
    • Climate Impact: Economic damage and lives affected by escalating climate disasters.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article underscores the interconnected challenges of inflation, fossil fuel dependency, and climate change.
    • Governments’ hesitation to phase out subsidies is identified as a critical obstacle.
    • Emphasis on the imperative shift to renewable energy for economic growth and effective climate action.

    Way Forward:

    • Advocacy: Push for responsible phasing out of fossil fuel subsidies.
    • Encouragement: Support governments in investing in renewable energy and energy-efficient solutions.
    • Climate Justice: Back initiatives addressing climate justice and adaptation to climate impacts.

  • What the OECD Report says of Climate Finance ahead of COP 28?

    Central Idea

    • A recent report published by the OECD reveals that economically developed countries failed to fulfill their commitment to jointly mobilize $100 billion per year for climate mitigation and adaptation in developing countries in 2021, missing the 2020 deadline.
    • The report’s findings have significant implications for the upcoming COP 28 climate talks in the United Arab Emirates, where climate finance is expected to be a contentious issue.

    Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)

     

    • Establishment: Founded in 1961, succeeding the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation (OEEC) which was established in 1948 to help administer the Marshall Plan for the reconstruction of Europe after World War II.
    • Members: Initially European-focused, it now includes 38 member countries from across the globe, including many of the world’s most advanced economies and some emerging economies.
    • Purpose: To stimulate economic progress and world trade. It’s a forum where governments can work together to share experiences and seek solutions to common problems.
    • Key Functions: Provides a platform for comparing policy experiences, seeking answers to common problems, identifying good practices, and coordinating domestic and international policies of its members.
    • Major Publications: Includes the OECD Economic Outlook, the OECD Employment Outlook, and the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) report.

    Key Findings of the OECD Report

    • Shortfall in Climate Finance: Developed countries mobilized $89.6 billion in climate finance in 2021, falling short of the $100 billion target.
    • Decline in Adaptation Finance: The report highlights a 14% decrease in financing for climate adaptation in 2021 compared to the previous year.

    Significance of the OECD Report

    • Representation of Developed Nations: The OECD consists of affluent countries such as the U.S., the U.K., Germany, France, Switzerland, and Canada, providing insights into their climate finance priorities before the COP 28 talks.
    • COP 26 Pledge: The report follows a commitment by developed nations at COP 26 in 2020 to double adaptation finance and acknowledges their failure to meet the $100 billion goal on time.

    Issues related to Climate Finance Accountability

    • Composition of Climate Finance: The report reveals that a significant portion of public climate financing comes in the form of loans, raising concerns about debt stress in developing countries.
    • Loan Classification: The report’s treatment of loans without considering grant equivalents can exacerbate the burden on poorer nations, as loans may require repayment with interest.
    • ‘Additionality’: The UNFCCC mandates that developed countries provide “new and additional” financial resources for climate purposes, preventing the diversion of funds from other essential sectors like healthcare.
    • Lack of Defined Criteria: Developed countries have resisted efforts to establish a clear definition of climate finance, allowing ambiguity in classifying various types of funding.
    • Double-Counting: Some developed countries have been accused of double-counting development aid as climate finance, leading to the misallocation of resources.

    Climate Finance Needs and Future Projections

    • The OECD report suggests that $100 billion was likely met in 2022, but this data remains preliminary and unverified.
    • Developing countries are projected to require approximately $1 trillion annually for climate investments by 2025, escalating to $2.4 trillion per year from 2026 to 2030, highlighting the inadequacy of the $100 billion goal.

    Conclusion

    • The OECD report on climate finance underscores the gap between promises made by developed nations and their actual contributions.
    • Issues of loan classification, additionality, and a lack of clear criteria for climate finance need to be addressed for greater transparency and accountability.
    • As developing countries face growing climate-related challenges, public funding from governments and multilateral development banks remains crucial to meeting their needs.

  • COP28 in Dubai: What to expect from Climate meeting

    COP28

    Central Idea

    • The upcoming COP28, scheduled to be held in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, faces the daunting challenge of addressing the urgent climate crisis.
    • Despite decades of negotiations, current global commitments to combat climate change are deemed insufficient.
    • With temperatures rising at an alarming rate, the need for substantial action has never been more critical.

    What is COP?

    • The word ‘COP’ is an acronym for ‘Conference of the Parties. The ‘parties’ are the governments around the world that have signed the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), a treaty agreed upon in 1994.
    • Every year, the COP is hosted by a different nation and the first such COP meeting – ‘COP1’ – took place in Germany in 1995.
    • The conferences are attended by world leaders, negotiators, and ministers, and also by representatives from civil society, business, international organisations, and the media.
    • The last COP-27 edition convened in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt with the theme “Together for Implementation” and to renew and extend the agreements reached in the historic Paris Agreement.

    Climate Action So Far: Crisis and Inadequate Responses

    • Rising Temperatures: 2023 is poised to become the warmest year ever recorded, with monthly warming records continually broken.
    • Response Lag: Global efforts to combat climate change have not kept pace with the rapid temperature increase.
    • Assessment: Recent reports indicate that current climate action plans, even in an optimistic scenario, would only achieve a 2% reduction in emissions by 2030, far from the 43% reduction recommended by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
    • Financial Gap: Despite increasing climate risks, financial resources allocated for adaptation measures in developing countries are insufficient, with a vast disparity between the required and actual funding.

    Expectations from COP28

    COP28 aims to address these pressing climate challenges and achieve significant outcomes:

    (1) Tripling of Renewable Energy:

    • Objective: Triple the global installed capacity of renewable energy by 2030, resulting in 70% of electricity generation from renewables.
    • Potential: This initiative could reduce 7 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions by 2030, making it a substantial step toward emission reduction.
    • Support: The proposal has garnered endorsement from G20 countries and explicit support from 60 others.

    (2) Delivery of $100 Billion:

    • Background: Developed countries pledged to mobilize $100 billion annually in climate finance from 2020, a commitment that remains unfulfilled.
    • Progress: Developed nations are expected to claim fulfillment of this promise at COP28, though it remains inadequate compared to the trillions required for climate action.
    • Challenge: The greater challenge lies in negotiating additional funding beyond the $100 billion annually, commencing from next year.

    (3) Funding for Loss and Damage:

    • Fund Creation: The establishment of a loss and damage fund, designed to assist countries affected by climate change impacts, was a notable outcome of the previous climate meeting in Egypt.
    • Funding Flow: COP28 is expected to witness financial contributions to the loss and damage fund, signaling progress in addressing concerns, especially for small island nations.

    (4) Global Stocktake:

    • Mandate: As per the Paris Agreement (2015), COP28 will present findings from the first global stocktake exercise. This assessment evaluates countries’ progress in combating climate change and outlines necessary actions for the next five years.
    • Informing Action: The stocktake findings will inform discussions and actions during the conference, providing a roadmap for more effective climate action.

    (5) Phase-down of Fossil Fuels:

    • Challenge: Controversial debates on the scheduled phase-down or phase-out of fossil fuels, particularly coal, persist among nations.
    • Contentious Issue: Resolving the disagreement over fossil fuel reduction is expected to be a complex and unresolved matter at COP28.

    Conclusion

    • COP28, set to be held in Dubai, represents a critical opportunity to address the climate crisis.
    • With expectations of tripling renewable energy, fulfillment of $100 billion climate finance commitments, funding for loss and damage, and global stocktake findings, the conference aims to push climate action forward.
    • However, the contentious issue of fossil fuel phase-down remains a challenge for the conference.
    • The world eagerly anticipates the outcomes and progress toward mitigating climate change.

  • Loss and Damage Fund (LDF) talks leave developing nations at new disadvantage 

    loss and damage fund

    Central Idea

    • In the escalating climate crisis, the terms “adaptation” and “loss and damage” (L&D) have taken center stage.
    • While the concept was embraced at COP 27, recent meetings of the Transitional Committee (TC) to operationalize the fund have encountered major roadblocks.

    Birth of the L&D Fund

    • Historic Pollution Accountability: The call for affluent nations to acknowledge their historical pollution accountability dates back over 30 years.
    • COP 19 Agreement: In 2013, at COP 19 in Warsaw, Poland, member countries formalized the creation of the L&D fund. It aimed to provide financial and technical support to economically developing nations grappling with L&D due to climate change.
    • Subsequent Developments: COP 25 introduced the Santiago Network for L&D, and COP 26 established the Glasgow Dialogue on finance for L&D. COP 27 in November 2022 saw the creation of the L&D fund and a Transitional Committee (TC) tasked with operationalizing the fund.

    Challenges in Creation of the L&D Fund

    • Contentious Issues: TC meetings have grappled with contentious issues such as hosting the fund at the World Bank, the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR), climate reparations, and eligibility criteria for developing nations.
    • Developed vs. Developing Nations: These disagreements have deepened the divide between developed and developing nations, hampering progress.

    Outcome of TC4 and TC5 Meetings

    • TC4 Impasse: The fourth meeting of the TC concluded without a consensus on how to operationalize the L&D fund, reflecting divisions on key issues.
    • TC5 Draft Recommendations: An impromptu fifth meeting of the TC led to draft recommendations forwarded to COP 28. Developing nations conceded to the fund being hosted by the World Bank temporarily, but developed nations, including the U.S., remained non-committal regarding primary donor status and rejected references to CBDR, equity, and liability in the draft.
    • Lack of Clarity: The draft does not specify the fund’s size due to pressure from certain developed nations.

    A blow to climate multilateralism

    • Erosion of Trust: The outcome underscores a severe trust deficit between affluent and emerging economies concerning historical responsibilities, deepening the rift between wealthy and impoverished nations.
    • Failure to Fulfill Commitments: The unwillingness of wealthy nations to fulfill intended commitments undermines global climate negotiations, cooperation, and climate justice.
    • Humanitarian Consequences: The watering down of the L&D fund can lead to humanitarian crises, food shortages, displacement, conflict, and exacerbate the suffering of vulnerable communities.
    • Economic and Environmental Impact: It also has economic consequences, with potential financial crises and environmental degradation, exacerbating global economic instability.
    • Security Implications: Climate-induced instability may lead to security implications as conflicts emerge in vulnerable nations, threatening to spill across borders.

    L&D as Part of Climate Justice

    • Balancing Adaptation and L&D: Adaptation and L&D are not mutually exclusive but coexist on the continuum of climate resilience.
    • Moral and Financial Responsibility: Addressing L&D is a moral and financial responsibility of affluent nations, ensuring climate justice, equity, and solidarity.
    • Global Climate Action: Failure to meet these obligations can derail global climate action, adding pressure to future COP talks.

    Conclusion

    • The protracted impasse surrounding the Loss and Damage fund reflects a troubling lack of consensus and trust between nations, hindering climate justice and cooperation.
    • As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, balancing adaptation and addressing L&D remains paramount.

     

  • CBAM will kill EU Manufacturing: Commerce Minister

    cbam

    Central Idea

    • Commerce and Industry Minister has strongly criticized the European Union’s (EU) proposed Carbon Tax on imports, deeming it “ill-conceived” and warning of potential consequences for the EU’s manufacturing sector.
    • He asserted that even if the plan, set to take effect in 2026, proceeds, India will counter it by imposing its own carbon tax.

    What is the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)?

    Proposed by European Union (EU)
    Purpose To reduce carbon emissions from imported goods and prevent competitive disadvantage against countries with weaker environmental regulations
    Objectives Reduce carbon emissions from imported goods

    Promote a level playing field between the EU and its trading partners

    Protect EU companies that have invested in green technologies

    How does CBAM work?

    Coverage Applies to imported goods that are carbon-intensive
    Integration Covered by the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS), which currently covers industries like power generation, steel, and cement
    Implementation CBAM taxes would be imposed on the carbon content of imported goods at the border, and the tax rates would be based on the carbon price in the EU ETS
    Exemptions Possible exemptions for countries that have implemented comparable carbon pricing systems
    Revenue Use Revenue generated from CBAM taxes could be used to fund the EU’s climate objectives, such as financing climate-friendly investments and supporting developing countries’ climate efforts

    Who will be affected by CBAM?

    Details
    Countries Non-EU countries, including India, that export carbon-intensive goods to the EU
    Items Initially covers iron and steel, cement, aluminium, fertilisers, and electric energy production
    Expansion The scope of the CBAM may expand to other sectors in the future

    Advantages offered

    • Encourages non-EU countries to adopt more stringent environmental regulations, reducing global carbon emissions.
    • Prevents carbon leakage by discouraging companies from relocating to countries with weaker environmental regulations.
    • Generates revenue that could be used to support EU climate policies.

    Challenges with CBAM

    • Difficulty in accurately measuring the carbon emissions of imported goods, especially for countries without comprehensive carbon accounting systems.
    • Potential for trade tensions with the EU’s trading partners, especially if other countries implement retaliatory measures.

    Consequences for EU Manufacturing

    • Auto Sector Impact: The minister suggested that the European auto sector could be one of the first casualties, particularly affecting steel and aluminum usage.
    • Opportunity for India: Goyal saw this as an opportunity for India to develop a robust auto sector, leveraging cost advantages in the global market.

    India’s Response and Carbon Tax Strategy

    • Counteractive Measures: India intends to neutralize the impact of the EU’s carbon tax by imposing its own.
    • Investing in Green Energy: Revenue from the Indian carbon tax would be channelled into the country’s green energy transition, which, indirectly, could help exporters transition to cleaner energy and reduce their carbon footprint.
    • Negotiations with EU: The government is engaged in dialogues with EU counterparts regarding the levy’s fairness and pricing disparities.

    Conclusion

    • The EU’s proposed Carbon Tax and India’s counterstrategy highlight the complexities of international trade, environmental concerns, and the potential consequences for various industries.
    • India’s strong stance underscores its commitment to safeguarding its economic interests while engaging in constructive negotiations with the EU to ensure a fair and mutually beneficial outcome.

  • Ancient Landscape cut by rivers found deep under Antarctic Ice

    Antarctic Ice

    Central Idea

    • Scientists have unveiled a vast ancient landscape buried beneath the continent’s ice sheet, offering a glimpse into a time when it was not a frozen wilderness but a land of rivers and forests teeming with life.
    • This discovery, located in East Antarctica’s Wilkes Land region, holds clues to Antarctica’s environmental history and the mysteries of its distant past.

    What is Wilkes Land?

    • Wilkes Land is a region located in Antarctica, on the eastern side of the continent.
    • It is one of the largest unclaimed territories in Antarctica, primarily because it is covered by the East Antarctic Ice Sheet, which makes it difficult to access and study.
    • It was named after US Navy Officer Charles Wilkes, who led the exploring expedition (1838–1842).
    • This expedition was the first to extensively explore and map large parts of the Antarctic coastline, including the area that came to be known as Wilkes Land.
    • The East Antarctic Ice Sheet in Wilkes Land, in particular, contains valuable information about the history of climate change and ice sheet dynamics, which are critical for understanding global climate patterns and sea-level rise.

    Antarctica’s Geological Journey

    • Gondwana Supercontinent: Antarctica was once part of the Gondwana supercontinent, which included modern-day continents like Africa, South America, Australia, and the Indian subcontinent. It later separated due to plate tectonics.
    • Evolution of Landscape: Researchers suggest that as Antarctica’s climate warmed, rivers flowed across this newfound landscape toward coastlines formed during continental separation. Subsequent cooling led to glacial erosion, preserving the landscape for millions of years.

    About the Under-Glacier Landscape

    • Rediscovering Ancient Antarctica: Satellite observations and ice-penetrating radar have unveiled a sprawling ancient landscape beneath Antarctica’s ice sheet.
    • Geographic Scope: The discovered landscape spans an area roughly equivalent to Belgium or the U.S. state of Maryland and is situated in East Antarctica’s Wilkes Land region, bordering the Indian Ocean.
    • Time Frame: This ancient terrain is estimated to date back to at least 14 million years ago and potentially extend even further, to over 34 million years ago, coinciding with Antarctica’s transition into a frozen continent.

    Snapshot of a Different Era

    • A Window to the Past: The landscape offers a snapshot of an earlier time when Antarctica enjoyed warmer climates. The specific appearance remains uncertain, but it might have ranged from temperate to even tropical conditions.
    • Wildlife Enigma: While it’s likely that this environment supported diverse wildlife, the incomplete fossil record leaves the identity of its inhabitants shrouded in mystery.

    Beneath the Ice

    • Icy Cover: The ancient landscape lies beneath approximately 2.2 to 3 km of ice, creating an enigmatic world hidden from human view.
    • Exploration Challenges: The land beneath Antarctica’s ice remains more enigmatic than the surface of Mars. Researchers propose drilling through the ice to obtain sediment core samples, potentially revealing ancient flora and fauna, much like Greenland samples dating back 2 million years.

    How was it identified?

    • Scientific Methods: The study employed satellite observations and ice-penetrating radar data gathered from overflight missions.
    • Unique Discovery: While previous research uncovered ancient landscapes beneath Antarctica’s ice, this discovery stands out as the first of its kind, shaped by rivers and distinct geological processes.
    • Changing Climates: Antarctica’s landscape and climate underwent significant transformations, resembling cold temperate rainforests before cooling to its frozen state.

  • Climate finance needs private funding too

    What’s the news?

    • The Paris Pact for People and the Planet signifies a milestone in the global commitment to sustainable development.

    Central idea

    • June saw more than 100 countries converge in Paris with a shared vision: no nation should be torn between combating poverty and preserving the planet. This led to the establishment of the Paris Pact for People and the Planet, crafted with invaluable insights from India.

    A Transformative Shift in Global Investments

    • The debate around developed countries’ commitment to furnishing USD 100 billion a year for climate finance from 2020 to 2025 has been heated.
    • The target is set to be achieved by 2023.
    • France surpassed its share, contributing €7.6 billion in 2022 for climate financing.
    • Since 2012, the French Development Agency has invested over €2 billion in India for sustainable ventures.

    India’s Role in the Global Sustainable Financial Landscape

    • Leadership in Global Forums: India co-chaired the summit for the Paris Pact for People and the Planet.
    • Collaboration with France: India and France jointly act to bridge global financial divides.
    • G20 Presidency: India led significant progress in sustainable finance discussions under its G20 Presidency.
    • Regional Debt Management: India collaborated with the Paris Club for debt restructuring in Sri Lanka.
    • Championing Cohesion: India, with France, emphasizes unity and cooperation in the global financial landscape.

    Debt Challenges in Developing Nations

    • Public Sector Limitations: Public sector financing is not enough to address global challenges.
    • Regulatory Impacts: Post-2008 financial regulations may hinder the flow of OECD savings towards non-OECD countries.
    • Green Finance Framework: Misunderstandings between developed and developing countries on aligning finance with the Paris Agreement’s objectives
    • Debt Vulnerabilities: Many low- and middle-income countries are on unsustainable debt trajectories.

    Proposed actions to unlock more private-sector funding

    • Reviewing Global Climate Funds: Start an in-depth analysis of global vertical climate funds to make better use of resources and encourage greater cooperation among climate finance ecosystem stakeholders.
    • Expanding the Green Finance Framework: Further develop the green finance framework to align the financial sector with the objectives of the Paris Agreement. This entails leveraging private finance to support low-carbon and resilient pathways worldwide, using mitigation costs as a guiding principle.
    • Promoting Just Energy Transition Partnerships: Encourage country-led, multi-actor partnerships, such as the Just Energy Transition Partnerships already operational in countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, South Africa, and Senegal, to attract investments for phasing out coal from electricity production.
    • Engaging Credit Rating Agencies: Include credit-rating agencies in the reform agenda of multilateral development banks (MDBs) to ensure that these institutions are not penalized due to reforms aimed at enhancing their effectiveness. Rating agencies should consider innovative blended finance schemes and data on defaults, revealing the resilience of projects with multilateral guarantees.

    Conclusion

    • The global community, with India at its helm, is making strides towards reshaping the financial landscape in favor of sustainable development. Harnessing both the public and private sectors, and with partnerships like the non-French collaboration, there’s hope for a balanced planet where poverty alleviation and environmental preservation coexist.

  • Restoring the ecological health of the Himalayas

     

    himalaya

    Central idea

    The Supreme Court is exploring the Himalayan region’s carrying capacity to address environmental concerns. Critics advocate a broader, inclusive approach involving multiple institutes and citizen representation for a sustainable, people-centric strategy. The focus is on engaging local communities and assessing the social dimensions for lasting solutions.

    Carrying Capacity Definition

    Carrying capacity refers to the maximum sustainable population size an ecosystem can support without significant harm. It’s crucial for balancing human activities with environmental preservation.

    Importance of ecological health of Himalaya

    • Biodiversity Hub: The Himalayas host diverse flora and fauna, making the region crucial for the conservation of numerous endemic and endangered species.
    • Water Source for Asia: As the “Water Tower of Asia,” the Himalayas contribute to major river systems, providing water to millions downstream, emphasizing the importance of ecological health.
    • Climate Regulation: The Himalayas play a pivotal role in global climate regulation, influencing weather patterns, monsoons, and serving as a natural buffer against the impacts of climate change.
    • Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Beyond ecology, the Himalayas hold cultural and spiritual importance, and their ecological well-being is intertwined with the traditional practices and beliefs of local communities.
    Some interesting facts

    The Himalayas harbor over 50% of the world’s plant species.

    Himalayan glaciers supply water to major rivers, supporting nearly 1.5 billion people.

    Snow leopards, a rare and endangered species, find refuge in the Himalayan mountain ranges.

    The Himalayan region is a biodiversity hotspot with unique species like the Himalayan monal, a vibrantly colored pheasant.

     

    Key Challenges and Ineffective Past Initiatives:

    • Despite previous efforts, progress on assessing and implementing carrying capacity plans has been minimal.
    • Flawed recommendations from the Ministry, with the same individuals responsible for environmental damage now tasked with finding solutions.
    • The suggested reliance on the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment overlooks the significance of other relevant institutes in policymaking.
    • A myopic emphasis on towns and cities, without considering the broader impact of infrastructure, like road networks creating spontaneous settlements.

    Government Schemes and Initiatives:

    • National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (2010).
    • Indian Himalayas Climate Adaptation Programme.
    • Secure Himalaya Project.
    • Guidelines on ‘Carrying Capacity in the IHR’ circulated on January 30, 2020.
    • Ministry’s reminder on May 19, 2023, urging States to submit carrying capacity action plans if not undertaken.

    Way Forward:

    • Holistic Regional Focus: Include under-explored areas like the Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, where rapid tourism growth may impact the local ecosystem. Similarly, consider the less urbanized parts of Sikkim, such as Dzongu, facing challenges in waste management due to an increase in population.
    • Emphasize Sustainable Population: Prioritize assessing the carrying capacity with a focus on “Sustainable Population.” For instance, examine the impact of population growth on water sources in regions like Lachen in Sikkim, known for its pristine lakes and rivers.
    • Citizen Representation: Include citizens from diverse backgrounds, like the Gaddis in Himachal Pradesh or the Lepchas in Sikkim, ensuring that indigenous knowledge contributes to sustainable solutions.
    • Biological Diversity: Evaluate the overall sustainable capacity by considering the rich biological diversity in areas like the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand. Understand the delicate balance in ecosystems supporting various species.
    • Water Management: Assess the sustainable capacity of water resources, acknowledging concerns raised by citizens in regions like Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Here, water plays a crucial role in agriculture, and any disruption affects the livelihoods of the Monpa community.

    Conclusion:

    The imperative for sustainable development in the Himalayan region requires a comprehensive assessment of carrying capacity. The Supreme Court’s intervention serves as a catalyst for a people-centric, inclusive, and holistic approach, emphasizing long-term environmental health and citizen involvement. With united efforts we will restore Himalayan glory again

  • Disruption in Earth’s Water Cycle

    water cycle

    Central Idea

    • The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) issued a report highlighting the significant impact of climate change and human activities on Earth’s water circulation systems.
    • This has direct consequences leading to droughts, extreme rainfall events, and disruptions in water cycles.

    What is the Water Cycle?

    • The water cycle, also known as the hydrologic cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth’s surface.
    • It involves various processes that allow water to circulate between the atmosphere, land, oceans, and other bodies of water:
    Evaporation Sun’s heat turns surface water into vapor.
    Condensation Vapor forms clouds as it cools in the atmosphere.
    Precipitation Clouds release moisture as rain, snow, or hail.
    Runoff & Infiltration Water flows over land or seeps into the ground.
    Transpiration Plants absorb and release water vapor.
    Sublimation Ice transforms directly into vapor in specific conditions.
    Transport Winds move moisture globally.
    Collection Water gathers in oceans, lakes, and underground sources.

     Why is it under stress?

    • Diverse Impact: Climate change and human activities have led to an erratic hydrological cycle, resulting in both droughts and extreme rainfall events, causing widespread disruptions affecting livelihoods and economies.
    • Melting Snow and Glaciers: Ongoing melting of snow, ice, and glaciers further exacerbates the risk of extreme weather events, such as floods, posing long-term threats to water security, particularly for millions already facing severe water scarcity.

    Global Impact

    • Global Deviations: Over 50% of global catchment areas experienced deviations from normal river discharge conditions in 2022, primarily due to climate anomalies, such as heatwaves, droughts, La Nina, and El Nino events.
    • Horn of Africa Drought: Severe drought in the Horn of Africa led to reduced river discharge, affecting food security for 21 million people, while other regions, like the Niger Basin, saw above-average discharge and major floods.
    • Water Reservoirs Affected: More than 60% of major water reservoirs experienced below-normal inflow, posing challenges to water availability in a changing climate.

    Impact on Asian Water Tower

    • The term “Asian Water Tower (AWT)” typically refers to the vast network of high mountain regions across Asia, particularly in countries like India, China, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Central Asia.
    • These high mountain regions are the source of many major rivers in Asia, such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Yangtze, Mekong, Indus, and Amu Darya.
    • The melting snow and glaciers in these mountains provide a continuous supply of freshwater to downstream areas.
    • This AWT witnessed substantial glacial melting in 2022.
    • Rising temperatures accelerate water cycle disruptions, leading to heavier precipitation, flooding, and intensified droughts, significantly impacting the water balance.

  • Sustainable water management in Agriculture

    What’s the news?

    • The theme for World Food Day (October 16) this year—’Water is Life, Water is Food’ —calls for urgent action in managing water wisely.

    Central idea

    • Water is the essence of life, a resource that nourishes not just humanity but every ecosystem on this planet. However, as this year’s World Food Day theme rightly points out, water is also food. In the light of increasing climate extremes, managing this precious resource wisely has never been more urgent.

    Impact of Climate Change on Crop Yields

    • Rainfed rice yields in India are projected to decrease by 20% in 2050 and 47% in 2080 if no adaptation measures are taken.
    • Irrigated rice yields are also expected to decline, with a projected decrease of 3.5% in 2050 and 5% in 2080 scenarios.
    • Wheat yields could face substantial reductions, with a projected decrease of 19.3% in 2050 and 40% in 2080.
    • Kharif maize yields are also at risk, with projected declines of 18% in 2050 and 23% in 2080.
    • Climate change, without adequate adaptation measures, not only reduces crop yields but also lowers the nutritional quality of the produce.

    Challenges associated with poor water management

    • Degraded Freshwater Supplies and Ecosystems: Decades of mismanagement, misuse, and pollution have resulted in the degradation of freshwater supplies and ecosystems. This has had a detrimental impact on the availability of clean water for agriculture and other essential needs.
    • Vulnerability of Small-Scale Producers: Small-scale farmers, who represent over 80% of farmers globally, are especially vulnerable to the effects of climate shocks, land degradation, and water scarcity.
    • Land Degradation: Approximately 40% of the world’s land area is degraded, which means that it is less productive for agriculture. This further reduces the available land for farming, exacerbating the challenges faced by small-scale producers.
    • Climate Impacts: Extreme weather events and variability in water availability are disrupting agricultural production. These changes are altering agro-ecological conditions and shifting growing seasons, making it challenging for farmers to predict and adapt to changing conditions.
    • Effects on Crop Productivity: Changes in rainfall patterns and rising temperatures have adverse effects on crop productivity. Reduced yields and food availability can result from these climate-related factors, which can contribute to food insecurity and hunger.

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    FAO Crop Forecasting Framework:

    • The FAO is working on a pilot project in several Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
    • The project aims to develop a crop forecasting framework and model that incorporates climate data, soil characteristics, and market information.
    • This information can help rainfed farmers make informed decisions about their crops, potentially contributing to food security by improving agricultural planning and management.

     Climate change adaptation

    • FAO Initiatives:
      • Supports sustainable agrifood systems and climate-smart agriculture.
      • Initiated the farmer water school programme in Uttar Pradesh.
      • Supported the Andhra Pradesh Farmer Managed Groundwater Systems project which benefits 638 habitations with hydrological monitoring.
    • IFAD’s Focus:
      • Prioritizes climate change adaptation in its core strategies.
      • Invests in preserving soil health, water resources, and integrating modern technologies with indigenous systems.
      • Implements projects in Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Nagaland, and Mizoram emphasizing climate-resilient practices.
    • WFP Collaboration:
      • Partners with the Government of Odisha focusing on women farmers.
      • Employs solar technologies and promotes millet-value chains for climate resilience.

    Steps needed

    • Overall Strategy: Prioritize political commitment and concrete investment for global food and nutrition security. Promote innovative technologies to enhance farmer productivity.
    • Climate Change Adaptation: Formulate strategies to adapt to climate change. Foster resilience against environmental and economic shocks.
    • Agricultural Practices: Implement sustainable and economically feasible irrigation and water management techniques. Minimize the climate footprint in agricultural production. Address bio-hazards and environmental pollution.
    • Infrastructure and Supply Chain: Prioritize sanitation and potable water supply for rural areas. Advocate for efficient food and water recycling methods.
    • Regulation and Management: Strengthen sustainable and fair water regulations. Improve management, access, and ownership systems for resources.
    • UN’s Collaborative Projects: Collaborate with the Indian Government on projects such as Solar 4 Resilience, Secure Fishing, and the revival of millets for renewable energy and food security.

    Conclusion

    • Climate change is making water more scarce and unpredictable. Droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events are becoming more common. World Food Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in achieving food and nutrition security for all. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has enough to eat and drink.