India's contribution to the carbon dioxide load is a mere 3 percent, considering its 17 percent share of the world's population
Union Power Minister R. K. Singh emphasised at the Indo-Japan Conclave 2023 in New Delhi that the focus of discussions at COP28 should be on reducing emissions, with a particular call for developed countries to take the lead in emission reduction efforts.
Singh highlighted that developed countries are responsible for 80 percent of the total legacy carbon dioxide load, despite having only one-third of the global population. In contrast, India's contribution to the carbon dioxide load is a mere 3 percent, considering its 17 percent share of the world's population. He underscored that India's per capita emissions are one-third of the global average, standing at 2.19 tonnes per year, while the global average is 6.8 tonnes per year.
The minister argued that, given the significantly higher per capita emissions of developed countries (2–3 times the global average), the primary discussion at COP28 should revolve around their commitment to reducing emissions. He asserted that the world should unite in addressing the central problem of emissions rather than getting bogged down in debates about the choice of fuel.
Singh dismissed discussions about coal as a diversionary tactic adopted by some developed countries to shift focus away from their own emissions. He stressed that India's emphasis has always been on reducing emissions and redirecting the dialogue to where it matters.
In terms of the global situation, Singh pointed out that, to limit the global rise in temperature to 1.5 degrees, there is only about 250 gigatons of available carbon space left. However, the world is emitting at a rate of 53 gigatons every year, allowing just 5 years to remain below the limit. He emphasised that global citizens should not be emitting more than 6 tonnes per year to stay within this limit.
Regarding India's efforts, Singh highlighted the country's rapid rate of energy transition, achieving its commitment for emissions intensity reduction in 2019, eleven years ahead of schedule. India aims to have 40 percent of its capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030, a target it reached in 2021. The minister also noted the challenges in Africa, where 733 million people lack access to electricity, emphasising the need for funds to address this issue.
Singh stressed the importance of enhancing storage capacity for round-the-clock renewable energy and called for increased investments in storage manufacturing. He expressed confidence that as India and the world add volumes, the prices of storage will come down. Additionally, he invited the Japanese industry to invest in India and source their requirements from the country, highlighting the common interests and strategic partnership between India and Japan.