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Subject: Climate Change

1. Global Warming and Issues
2. All about Pollution

  • 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.

  • Stocktaking climate finance a case of circles in red ink

    climate finance

    Central idea

    The article emphasizes the critical role of climate finance in global trust-building, highlighting challenges such as inequality, mandatory contribution frameworks, and political will. Concerns arise from insufficient funding, voluntary contributions, and disparities between pledged amounts and actual commitments.

    Key Highlights:

    • Climate Finance Crucial: Climate finance is essential for trust in climate change negotiations, especially in COP 28. The Synthesis Report highlights a 1.1°C temperature increase causing hazardous weather, intensifying demands for mitigation actions by developing countries.
    • $100 Billion Commitment: Developed countries committed to mobilize $100 billion per year by 2020, but the Glasgow conference in 2021 reported only $79.6 billion mobilized, leading to concerns about insufficient funding to support developing nations in low-carbon transitions.
    • NDC Financial Needs: Developing nations, as per their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), estimate financial needs close to $6 trillion until 2030. India’s NDCs highlight financial requirements of $206 billion for adaptation and $834 billion for mitigation.

    Challenges:

    • Inequality in Contribution: Developed countries exhibit disparities in fulfilling climate finance commitments, with the U.S. contributing only 5% of its fair share. This inequality hampers the effective mobilization of funds required for climate action.
    • Mandatory Contribution Framework: The absence of a mandatory framework for developed nations to contribute poses a significant challenge. The lack of clear criteria for collecting funds creates uncertainty about achieving the set financial goals.
    • Discrepancies in Pledged Amounts: The second replenishment of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) revealed contributions from only 25 out of 37 developed countries. The shortfall in meeting pledges raises concerns about the reliability of financial commitments.
    • Global Urgency Disparity: Unlike the swift response to the 2009 global financial crisis, there is a notable lack of political will and urgency among developed nations to address climate finance needs. This disparity impedes progress in protecting the global atmosphere.

    Concerns:

    • Insufficient Funding: The $79.6 billion mobilized falls short of the committed $100 billion annually, hindering the capacity of developing nations to transition to sustainable practices. The insufficiency raises concerns about meeting climate finance goals.
    • Voluntary Contributions Challenge: The inclusion of voluntary contributions by nine developing countries in the GCF introduces complexities in defining and accounting for international public climate finance. The challenge lies in establishing uniform criteria for contributions.
    • Impact on Developing Nations: Developing nations, as highlighted in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), express financial needs close to $6 trillion until 2030. The gap between needs and actual mobilized funds poses a significant concern for these nations.

    Analysis:

    • Crisis of Commitment: Discrepancies between pledged amounts and actual contributions underscore a crisis of commitment among developed countries. This undermines the effectiveness of global climate finance mechanisms, impacting the transition to sustainable practices.
    • Political Will Deficiency: The lack of political will and a sense of urgency among developed nations to address climate finance needs reveals a critical deficiency. Urgent action is necessary to bridge the gap between commitments and tangible contributions.

    Key Data:

    • GCF Replenishment: The second replenishment of the Green Climate Fund gathered pledges of $9.3 billion, with contributions from 25 developed countries out of 37.
    • Developed Countries’ $100 Billion Commitment: The actual mobilization reported at the Glasgow conference in 2021 was $79.6 billion, falling short of the committed $100 billion annually.

    Key Terms:

    • Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Country-specific climate action plans submitted under the Paris Agreement outlining mitigation and adaptation goals.
    • Global Stocktake: Periodic assessment of collective progress in climate action, informed by scientific findings, as part of the COP meetings.

    Way Forward:

    • Transparent Burden-Sharing: Establishing a transparent and agreed-upon burden-sharing formula among developed countries is crucial for fair and consistent contributions to climate finance.
    • Mandatory Contribution Framework: Implementing a mandatory framework for developed nations to contribute, accompanied by clear criteria for mobilizing funds, is essential to ensure reliability in financial commitments.
    • Global Cooperation and Urgency: Fostering a sense of urgency and global cooperation is imperative. A collective and urgent response, similar to past financial crises, is needed to address the critical climate finance needs and fulfill international commitments effectively.
    • Capacity Building: Prioritizing capacity building in developing nations to facilitate a smooth transition to sustainable practices. This includes supporting economic opportunities and livelihoods for those entrenched in fossil fuel economies.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Large Ozone Hole detected over Antarctica

    ozone

    Central Idea

    • Satellite measurements conducted over Antarctica have unveiled a gigantic hole in the ozone layer.
    • Termed an “ozone-depleted area,” this region spans 26 million square kilometers (10 million square miles), approximately three times the size of Brazil.

    Ozone Layer and Ozone Hole

    Location Stratosphere, approximately 10-30 km above Earth’s surface.
    Composition Composed of ozone (O3) molecules.

    Unit of measurement: Dobsob Unit (DU)
    Function Acts as a protective shield, absorbing and blocking a significant portion of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
    Importance Essential for protecting life on Earth by preventing excessive UV radiation, which can harm living organisms and the environment.
    Ozone-depleting Substances Threatened by ODS like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other synthetic compounds commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol propellants.
    Montreal Protocol An international treaty adopted in 1987 to phase out the production and consumption of ODS, resulting in significant recovery of the ozone layer.
    Current Status The ozone layer is in the process of recovery due to the success of the Montreal Protocol.
    Environmental Impact Protects ecosystems, prevents skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues in humans.
    Additional Facts • The size of the ozone hole over Antarctica varies annually, opening in August and closing in November or December.

    • Special winds caused by the Earth’s rotation create a unique climate over Antarctica, preventing mixing with surrounding air.

    • When these winds subside, the hole closes.

    Potential Causes of the Giant Ozone Hole

    • Volcanic Eruption in Tonga: Scientists speculate that the extensive ozone hole this year may be linked to volcanic eruptions in Hunga Tonga, Tonga, between December 2022 and January 2023. These eruptions released water vapor and other elements into the stratosphere, impacting the ozone layer through chemical reactions.
    • Human-Induced Ozone Holes: In the 1970s, scientists discovered that human activities, primarily the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), led to significant ozone depletion. These chemicals released chlorine in the stratosphere, depleting the ozone layer.
    • Effective Mitigation: The Montreal Protocol, established in 1987, aimed to combat ozone depletion by phasing out ozone-depleting substances. This international agreement successfully reduced the size of ozone holes over the years.

    Ozone Depletion and Climate Change

    • Not a Primary Climate Change Cause: Ozone depletion is not a leading contributor to global climate change.
    • Impact of Rising Temperatures: However, rising global temperatures may influence ozone holes. Extreme fires, such as those in southeastern Australia in 2020 and 2021, injected smoke into the stratosphere, potentially contributing to ozone depletion.
    • Changing Seasons: Ozone holes can alter the progression of seasons, as they extend the duration of polar vortexes, thereby extending winter periods.

  • Climate Change Trends: Trends, Shifts, or Decadal Cycles

    Central Idea

    • Studies have highlighted various climate phenomena in India, including declining monsoon rainfall, intensifying extreme weather events, droughts, heatwaves, and cyclones.
    • However, a critical question that demands attention is whether these changes represent long-term trends, abrupt shifts, or decadal cycles.
    • These distinctions hold significant implications for resource planning and management.

    Understanding Climate Change Terminology

    • Trend: Refers to a continuous, prolonged change in climate variables, such as a steady temperature increase over time. The term “anthropogenic trend” implies changes occurring within human lifetimes.
    • Secular Trend: Indicates a variable’s continuous increase for a specific period within a more extended timeframe, like 30 years within a century.
    • Decadal Variability: Involves oscillations between positive and negative phases over tens of years, potentially resembling a shift.
    • Shift: Represents a rapid transition from one state to another, like a sudden change in rainfall patterns. An example is the shift in seasonal monsoon rainfall from above the long-period average (LPA) to below it.

    Case Study: Cyclones Trend in Arabian Sea

    • A recent study in the journal Climate and Atmospheric Science identified a notable change in cyclone formation potential over the Arabian Sea in the late 1990s.
    • Cyclone-genesis potential depends on factors like sea surface temperature, ocean heat content, wind changes from the surface to upper atmosphere, and wind rotation. These factors have favored increased cyclone formation potential since the 1990s.
    • However, the crucial question is why this rapid increase occurred during this period. The study suggests that it coincided with a shift in the ‘Warm Arctic, Cold Eurasian’ (WACE) pattern rather than being a trend.

    Warm Arctic, Cold Eurasian Pattern

    • The WACE pattern involves warm surface temperatures over the Arctic and cold surface temperatures over Eurasia. It influences upper-level circulation changes that extend into the Indian Ocean sector.
    • Global warming experienced a slowdown during this period, and scientists have proposed the occurrence of a ‘regime shift,’ similar to one observed in the mid-1970s.

    Challenge for India

    • Regardless of whether these climate changes are shifts or decadal cycles, it is essential to understand their potential long-term effects on the monsoon, cyclone frequency, heatwaves, and extreme rainfall.
    • Accurate predictions are vital for planning and allocating resources to adapt to climate risks, such as sea-level rise, heavy rainfall, drought, heatwaves, and cyclones.
    • Climate scientists must focus on understanding natural variability in the local context, especially since this variability is influenced by global warming.
    • For example, the study indicates that the monsoon decadal cycle, previously lasting around 20 years, may now extend further, raising questions about the underlying causes.

    Conclusion

    • Distinguishing between climate trends, shifts, and decadal cycles is essential for India’s adaptation strategies.
    • These distinctions affect how the country prepares for and responds to evolving climate patterns, and climate scientists must strive to unravel the complexities of natural variability to make informed predictions and policy recommendations.

  • Duarte Agostinho Case: A Youth-led Climate Lawsuit

    Duarte Agostinho Case

    Central Idea

    • On September 27, a historic legal battle in the climate action movement commenced at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France.
    • This courtroom showdown featured 32 European governments, including the UK, Russia, and Turkey, facing off against six young individuals from Portugal, aged 11 to 24.

    Why discuss this?

    • Youth-led climate lawsuits are reshaping climate litigation.
    • These lawsuits assert that uncontrolled carbon emissions infringe on fundamental rights, threaten the well-being of young generations.
    • This highlight the centrality of climate science in combating misinformation and denialism.

    Understanding the Duarte Agostinho Case

    [A] Origins of the Lawsuit:

    • The Duarte Agostinho and Others v. Portugal and Others case was initiated in September 2020.
    • It was in response to the devastating wildfires in Portugal’s Leiria region in 2017, resulting in 66 casualties and the loss of 20,000 hectares of forests.
    • This legal action highlights the urgency of adhering to the Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global warming to below 1.5°C.

    [B] Concerns raised

    • The Portuguese youths assert that European nations have failed to meet climate emissions goals, exceeding global carbon budgets compatible with the Paris Agreement’s objectives.
    • Scientific evidence will be presented, demonstrating that if current emission trends persist, global temperatures will rise by 3°C during the plaintiffs’ lifetimes.
    • Such actions are alleged to breach fundamental rights protected under the European Convention on Human Rights, including the right to life, freedom from inhuman or degrading treatment, privacy, family life, and freedom from discrimination.

    Lawsuit’s Demands

    • Rapid Emission Reduction: As these 32 countries contributed to climate catastrophes and threatened young people’s futures, the lawsuit contends that these nations must urgently intensify emissions reductions. The recommended measures include curbing fossil fuel production and addressing global supply chain sustainability.
    • Emissions Reduction Targets: The European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change (ESABCC) suggested that countries should aim for emissions reductions of 75% below 1990 levels, a more ambitious target than the EU’s current 55%. The lawsuit argues that European countries have overstated their carbon budgets, emphasizing the need for greater reductions.

    Climate Crisis Impact on Human Rights

    • UNICEF characterizes the climate crisis as a “child rights crisis” due to unhindered carbon emissions and extreme weather jeopardizing access to education, health, nutrition, and the future.
    • Research links air pollution to adverse birth outcomes and increased risks of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
    • Heatwaves exacerbate mental health issues, ultimately affecting academic performance and school attendance.

    Government Responses and Challenges

    • Cause and Effect Denial: Many countries have dismissed any direct relationship between climate change and its impact on human health. Greece, for instance, argued that climate change effects do not directly affect human life or health, despite experiencing massive wildfires.
    • Portrayal as Future Fears: Governments like Portugal and Ireland have downplayed climate change concerns as “future fears,” asserting that there is no immediate risk to lives.
    • Policy Reversals: Some nations, like the U.K., have showcased proactive climate policies, such as a 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. However, these policies have been reversed, raising concerns about policy consistency and legality.

    Conclusion

    • The Duarte Agostinho case represents a pivotal moment in the climate action movement, with young activists challenging their governments to protect their future against the looming climate crisis.
    • This legal battle underscores the critical intersection of climate change and human rights, shaping a path toward increased accountability and transformative climate governance.

  • China, US and India absent at Climate Ambition Summit

     

    Central Idea

    • The Climate Ambition Summit (CAS) held in New York during the United Nations General Assembly concluded.
    • China, the United States, and India, together responsible for about 42% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions and ranking as the top three emitters, were missing.

    Climate Ambition Summit (CAS)

    Purpose Strengthen global climate action and increase climate ambition.
    Anniversary of Paris Agreement Typically held on December 12th, coinciding with the Paris Agreement’s anniversary.
    Linked to Paris Agreement Connected to the international treaty aiming to limit global warming to well below 2°C or 1.5°C.
    Hosts and Participants Hosted by countries/regions; attended by heads of state, officials, organizations, and stakeholders.
    Commitments and Pledges Platform for announcing climate commitments, NDCs, funding, and policy measures.
    Climate Finance Discussions on financing mitigation and adaptation in developing countries.
    Global Cooperation Emphasizes collective efforts and solidarity in addressing climate change.
    Outcome Results in declarations and announcements reflecting increased ambition.
    Subsequent COPs Contributions influence discussions at future UN Climate Change Conferences.
    Climate Emergency Acknowledges climate emergency and the need for urgent, transformative action.
    Non-State Actors Provides a platform for businesses, cities, and civil society to showcase actions.
    Long-Term Goals May include goals like achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century.

    India’s Involvement

    • India last updated its climate commitments in 2022, aiming to reduce emissions intensity (the volume of emissions per unit of GDP) by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030, a 10% increase from its 2015 commitment.
    • India also pledged to fulfill 50% of its electricity needs with renewable, non-fossil fuel energy sources and create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent by 2030.
    • In 2021, PM Modi pledged that India would achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
    • However, experts suggest these commitments may not be enough to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.