Latest news with #NDCs
Daily Maverick
11 hours ago
- Politics
- Daily Maverick
It's time to comment on South Africa's latest climate commitments
As climate disasters intensify and inequality deepens, South Africa's new draft Nationally Determined Contributions set out updated climate change mitigation targets and adaptation goals – but without real accountability and funding, it risks becoming another empty gesture. The public has just 30 days to speak up before this future-defining plan is finalised. South Africa has released its second draft of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), outlining updated climate change mitigation targets and adaptation goals for 2026-35, with greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and strategies for a just transition to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. As a signatory to the Paris Agreement (a legally binding international treaty on climate change), South Africa is required to routinely update its NDCs to reflect the country's 'highest possible ambition'. Environment Minister Dion George published the draft in the Government Gazette on 30 July 2025, inviting the public to submit comments within 30 days of that date. The second draft of the NDCs arrives amid accelerating impacts in South Africa, with thousands displaced because of flooding incidents, a hard-hit agricultural sector, recurring droughts and rising food and water insecurity, all while the country faces intense international scrutiny with the 1.5°C climate safety threshold becoming ever more elusive to maintain. 'Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our generation. Despite efforts in global mitigation, these fall short of what is needed to keep temperature increase below 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels. Rising global emissions mean increasing impacts,' it states in the Gazette. South Africa, struggling with the triple challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality, recognised that climate action cannot be decoupled from these development imperatives. The NDCs thus bring together mitigation (emissions reductions) and adaptation (building resilience against climate change impacts), with the goals of social inclusion, justice and economic transformation. George said this draft reflects South Africa's commitment to contribute fairly to the global efforts to limit temperature increase to well below 2°C, pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. South Africa is a significant emitter of greenhouse gases, especially in Africa, as seen in the graph below. Addressing these emissions is critical not only for global climate goals but also for South Africa's own sustainable development, given the pressing need to transition towards a low-carbon economy through renewable energy expansion and industrial transformation. Unpacking the latest NDCs The new NDCs are underpinned by the Climate Change Act, giving climate ambition the force and clarity of law. It assigns clearer responsibilities for every sphere of government and institutionalises the principle of a 'just transition', in an attempt to ensure that the pursuit of decarbonisation does not leave vulnerable communities behind. When it comes to mitigating greenhouse gases, the Gazette notes that annual greenhouse gas emissions should be in the range of 350 to 420 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (Mt CO₂-eq) by 2030. Then the range drops to 320-380 Mt CO₂-eq by 2035, hopefully en route to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. These figures mean a continued decline from South Africa's peak emissions, aligning with Paris Agreement ambitions. But achieving these targets will demand massive political will and investment, and much of it remains contingent on increased international climate finance. 'South Africa considers the mitigation target ranges in this NDC to be an ambitious and equitable contribution to the global mitigation effort, given South Africa's current and historical emissions and its national circumstances (especially its development challenges),' states the Gazette. In response to the Paris Agreement, South Africa, along with other nations, has been encouraged to create long-term strategies for a just transition to net zero emissions. South Africa committed in its 2020 Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. The path to achieving this goal, which will involve a fundamental shift away from a fossil fuel-dependent economy, will be further detailed in the country's next LT-LEDS – which the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is preparing. Unlike mitigation, which is measured in tons of carbon, adaptation is about tangible and necessary improvements in water security, disaster readiness, infrastructure and social safety nets. The updated NDCs introduce several adaptation goals for 2026-35, covering water and sanitation, disaster management, infrastructure, food security, climate services, biodiversity/ecosystem resilience and government capacity. This structure is designed to make adaptation measurable and monitorable, which is needed for South Africa's biennial adaptation synthesis reports, improved data systems and transparency protocols – this is to evaluate what's working and what needs rethinking. Importantly, the NDCs do not gloss over risks. They lay out uncertainties, from international finance, to domestic capacity and political stability needed to meet these goals. Without scaled support, the ambitions of the NDCs could remain aspirational. The document recognises the risk of inequitable impacts, the need for capacity and finance at every level of government and the challenge of translating strategy into action. In the 2021 update of the first NDCs, major uncertainties were highlighted, particularly concerning the impacts of Covid-19, including issues related to debt. The environment surrounding the second NDCs is now marked by significant geopolitical instability, particularly involving economic conflicts about tariffs and trade, ongoing military tensions in a number of countries with the potential for escalation, growing divisions both within societies and among nations and the possibility of reverting to regional power blocs, among other challenges. 'Recommitment by all countries to the multilateral rules-based approach to climate action and support is essential to address uncertainties,' the Gazette states. Call for stronger climate action James Reeler, WWF's senior technical specialist on climate action, urged all South Africans to raise their voices and call for stronger climate action and reduced greenhouse gas emissions at this critical stage. 'The impacts of climate change are devastating communities across the country, and failure to adequately address them will undermine economic development. We need to make it clear to both government and the international community that South Africa can and will step up to the challenge that climate change poses,' said Reeler. Reeler added that, despite strong lobbying efforts from some heavy emitters, there was a growing voice of concerned businesses calling for more ambition, with 95% of business leaders surveyed supporting a transition away from fossil fuels. As an example of this, Reeler said, the Alliance for Climate Action, a grouping of more than 50 South African companies and five major metropolitan municipalities, has issued a call for strong ambition in these NDCs. Reeler said that as the new NDCs cover the period to at least 2035, these must demonstrate how the country plans to address the risks to which a changing climate exposes agriculture, infrastructure and health. Journalist's comment This gazette isn't a bureaucratic formality, it's a direct call to action for every citizen and how we can hold our government accountable for the commitments it makes. We know that climate change disproportionately affects our most vulnerable communities and we've all seen the wreckage of seemingly increasing extreme weather events, water scarcity, and food insecurity on our friends and family. So scrutinise this plan, offer informed feedback, and ensure that the final document reflects the diverse needs and realities of all South Africans. Without active citizen engagement, this crucial blueprint for our future risks becoming just another document, rather than the living, breathing national commitment it needs to be. The public is invited to submit comments on the new draft NDCs within 30 days from the date of publication of the notice in the Government Gazette.
New Indian Express
a day ago
- Business
- New Indian Express
Rooftop solar plants to be installed in 1 crore households by 2026-27: Union minister Pralhad Joshi
NEW DELHI: Around one crore households across the country will be equipped with rooftop solar plants by 2026-27 under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, said the Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday. The minister, while speaking in the Lok Sabha, said the government is implementing various schemes and programmes to promote and develop renewable energy across India. 'The government launched PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana in February 2024 for installing rooftop solar for one crore households by 2026-27 across all states and UTs in the country," he said during the Question Hour. India's installed renewable energy capacity has now crossed 245 GW, including 116 GW of solar and 52 GW of wind power. According to the minister, the country has saved nearly ₹4 lakh crore by reducing fossil fuel imports and cutting pollution. India had achieved a major milestone in its energy transition journey by reaching 50% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources—five years ahead of the target set under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement.
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
India's climate action guided by national circumstances, MoEFCC tells Lok Sabha
New Delhi: India submitted its first Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)— the climate action plans that countries submit under the Paris Agreement— in 2015 and updated it in August 2022, and has already achieved 50% share in non-fossil fuel power electricity generation installed capacity, the union environment ministry told Lok Sabha on Monday. The ministry also said that the country is well on track to achieve its other quantitative targets. Kirti Vardhan Singh, minister of state for environment, made the statement in response to a question by Congress MP Harish Chandra Meena. (Sansad TV) Under the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)'s resolutions, all country parties are required to prepare and communicate their NDCs every five years based on the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDRRC) and national circumstances, Kirti Vardhan Singh, minister of state for environment, said in response to a question by Congress MP Harish Chandra Meena. India's climate action is guided by its own national circumstances, NDC and the Long-Term Low Carbon Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) to achieve net-zero by 2070 and Initial Adaptation Communication, the minister said. Meena had asked: whether the Government defaulted in submission of its updated National Determined Contribution (NDC) by the February, 2025 deadline under Paris Agreement; if so, the reasons for the delay along with the new deadline fixed for the same; and if not, the details of latest climate action plan and the steps taken to fulfill international obligations? 'It (India's climate strategy) provides the overarching framework for all climate actions and comprises of missions in specific areas of solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency, sustainable lifestyles based on the precepts of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) sustainable habitat, water, sustaining Himalayan ecosystems, Green India, sustainable agriculture, human health and strategic knowledge for climate change,' it said. 'All these Missions are institutionalised and implemented by their respective Nodal Ministries/Departments, Further, thirty-four States/Union Territories (UTs) have prepared their State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCC) in line with NAPCC taking into account the State specific issues relating to climate change. The responsibility of the implementation of the SAPCCs rests with the respective States. In addition, the Government of India has launched various schemes and programs to scale up India's climate action. The Government has taken various steps, and stands committed to fulfil its international obligations,' he added. India's overarching goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 (becoming a developed country by 2047) is of paramount importance and the country's climate actions should align with that, Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav said in an interview to HT on June 5, explaining India's stand on climate change negotiations in the midst of geopolitical disruptions. India is currently in the process of formulating its first comprehensive National Adaptation Plan (NAP), a strategic initiative to enhance the country's resilience to climate change. NAP represents a major step forward in aligning adaptation planning with India's national development priorities and global climate commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. The core objective of the NAP is to protect lives, ecosystems, and livelihoods by supporting: understanding of current and future climate risks and vulnerabilities ; identifying medium- and long-term priorities for climate adaptation ; and establishing systems, policies, measures and capacities to ensure strengthened adaptation planning, budgeting and implementation, he said.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Brazil chooses one of its poorest regions for UN climate talks, here's why
Source: Bloomber The upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in November is set to be unlike any other. For the first time, world leaders, scientists, activists, and business executives will gather in Belem, Brazil, a city located on the edge of the Amazon rainforest and grappling with poverty and environmental challenges. Unlike past host cities such as Paris, Dubai, or Bali—known for their luxury and tourist appeal—Belem was deliberately chosen to highlight climate vulnerability, deforestation, and socioeconomic inequalities. Organisers hope the unique venue will focus global attention not just on emissions targets but also on creating climate solutions that benefit developing nations and frontline communities. Why Belem was chosen for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) COP30 President-Designate Andre Corrêa do Lago emphasised that choosing Belem is a symbolic decision. Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva believes climate negotiations must confront real-world challenges head-on, rather than being discussed in insulated luxury settings. 'You are going to see a developing city, with infrastructure challenges and high poverty rates, set against one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth,' do Lago said. The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the 'lungs of the planet,' is central to discussions on climate change mitigation and biodiversity preservation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Libas Purple Days Sale Libas Undo By hosting COP30 in Belem, Brazil aims to directly link climate policies with poverty reduction and forest conservation. How Belem's location reflects the urgency and challenges of COP30 Location and infrastructure challenges – COP30 will be held in Belem, Brazil, which is already struggling with infrastructure and accommodation. The city's high hotel prices, lack of enough rooms, and the use of cruise ships to host delegates highlight how climate negotiations intersect with real-world social and economic issues. Key focus on climate action – COP30 is an important milestone for the Paris Agreement, where countries must update their climate action plans (NDCs) to cut greenhouse gas emissions. The event emphasises urgent global cooperation to limit warming to 1.5°C. Symbolism of Belem – Choosing Belem, a city near the Amazon rainforest and marked by poverty, symbolises the need to connect climate action with social justice, deforestation control, and sustainable development. COP30 pushes for $1.3 trillion climate finance to support vulnerable nations Another key priority is climate finance. The $1.3 trillion annual funding roadmap is under discussion to help vulnerable nations adapt to climate impacts and shift to clean energy as reported by Associated Press (AP). Developing countries argue that they contribute the least to global emissions yet suffer the most from floods, droughts, and rising sea levels. COP30 aims to strengthen commitments for equitable financial support, ensuring no country is left behind in the climate transition. Amazon protection and nature-based solutions take center stage at COP30 The Amazon rainforest, spanning multiple countries but largely within Brazil, is a critical carbon sink. Its deforestation, however, has reached alarming levels, at times turning parts of the Amazon into net carbon emitters. COP30 will prioritize: Halting illegal deforestation Restoring degraded ecosystems Incentivizing sustainable land use practices Strengthening indigenous land rights This focus aligns with the growing recognition that nature-based solutions are essential to achieving climate targets. Adding momentum, the United Nations' top court recently declared that access to a clean and healthy environment is a basic human right. This ruling strengthens arguments that states have a legal duty to reduce emissions and protect ecosystems. According to court President Yuji Iwasawa: 'Failure of a state to take appropriate action to protect the climate system may constitute an internationally wrongful act.' This legal shift could influence COP30 negotiations, pushing countries toward stronger and enforceable climate commitments. Vision for COP30 : A 'Summit of Solutions' Do Lago envisions COP30 as a turning point: 'We hope to be remembered as the COP of solutions, where people realized climate action creates opportunities and growth rather than sacrifice.' By holding the summit in Belem—where poverty, deforestation, and climate risk intersect—organizers aim to keep discussions grounded and outcomes impactful. The success of COP30 will depend not only on emissions pledges but also on innovative solutions, equitable financing, and a shared vision for a sustainable global future. Also Read | Rare flesh-eating bacteria kills 4 in Florida: Here's what you need to know about Vibrio vulnificus
India Today
4 days ago
- Business
- India Today
Are corporates quietly leading India's climate transition? A researcher's perspective
Almost every day, we scroll past at least one news headline about climate change. Yet, how many of us truly grasp the magnitude of the risk it poses, not just to our environment, but to our economies, financial systems, and the corporate world? This is not just an environmental issue; it is a full-blown financial reckoning. And opinions about the depth and breadth of climate-related risks differ markedly across stakeholders, from heads of state and bureaucrats to fund managers and business RISK IS NOW A BUSINESS RISKTake, for instance, an eye-opening survey conducted in 2021 by Professors Johannes Stroebel and Jeffrey Wurgler of the NYU Stern School of 861 finance professionals, regulators, academics, and economists, they found that 73% of private sector professionals believed climate risks are undermined (underpriced) in financial markets, compared to 51% among academicians. The disparity in perception itself reveals a key challenge -- the market has yet to fully internalise climate risk. But how, one might ask, are climate and finance interlinked in the first place? What does 'climate risk' actually mean in financial terms?Is it merely the spectre of floods, droughts, and natural disasters? Or is there more to the story? The answer lies in the policy shifts playing out on the national is a committed signatory to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has made ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), including a pledge to source 50% of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by certainly. But for corporates, these noble climate pledges translate into hard compliance mandates, tighter disclosures, and operational restructuring, in essence, a new breed of operational the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) framework mandated by SEBI for the top 1000 listed companies in must now disclose granular details about their energy consumption, carbon emissions, and sustainability practices. Climate compliance is no longer a corporate social responsibility initiative; it is gradually becoming a strategic pressure doesn't emanate solely from regulators. A more environmentally conscious breed of investors, consumers, and civil society actors are demanding surge in sustainable and responsible investing (SRI) is proof that environmental stewardship now carries market consequences. The upshot of all this?Companies are increasingly exposed to 'transition risk', i.e., the financial and operational fallout from a rapid move toward greener norms, policies, and runs parallel to 'physical risk', the traditional category encompassing the direct impact of climate-related disasters like cyclones, droughts, and extreme these twin risks are reshaping the contours of corporate decision-making in India. To empirically assess this behavioral shift, we conducted a comprehensive study of 1174 listed non-financial firms in India spanning 2005 to aim was simple yet urgent: Are Indian companies adapting to climate risk? If so, how? Our findings, recently published in Energy Economics, offer compelling energy consumption, which accounts for nearly 41% of total national energy usage (MoSPI 2021), is already being recalibrated in response to climate observed that firms facing higher climate vulnerability are significantly reducing their energy consumption. This isn't coincidental but a clear response to regulatory, reputational, and financial this response is asymmetric. Energyintensive firms are leading the charge, likely because they have more to lose from non-affiliated firms (those not part of large business groups) and those with robust corporate governance mechanisms show stronger climate quality plays a crucial role in steering firms toward long-term sustainability strategies, while business group affiliation may cushion the perceived impact of climate threats, thereby dulling the urgency to shift became more pronounced after the 2016 Paris Agreement, marking a tipping point in how Indian firms interpret and respond to climate policy course, reducing energy consumption is not without trade-offs. Firms face a strategic dilemma: inaction invites regulatory penalties and investor backlash, while aggressive energy cuts can impair productivity, output, and EFFICIENCY EMEREGES AS A STRATEGIC BUSINESS RESPONSEOur research reveals that firms are not merely cutting back; they are pursuing a strategic middle path, i.e., improving energy investing in technology upgrades and process optimisation, they are learning to generate more output with the same or lower energy not only mitigates emissions but also improves cost efficiency and long-term resilience. Notably, markets appear to be taking that demonstrate better energy efficiency attract higher valuations, suggesting that capital markets are beginning to reward green behaviour, an encouraging signal for the future of ESG investing in finds itself at a crossroads. As per the ND-GAIN index, it ranks 115th out of 187 countries in climate vulnerability. At the same time, it is poised to become the thirdlargest global over 76% of its energy needs in 2021 were met by coal and crude oil. This dichotomy, between environmental fragility and developmental urgency makes the role of Indian businesses absolutely state alone cannot carry the climate burden. The baton must also be passed to industry, not just to react, but to lead. Our research shows that this leadership is already emerging quietly and unevenly, but undeniably. While global climate diplomacy continues to be marred by political deadlock and insufficient commitments, as evidenced by India's rejection of the $300 million annual climate grant at COP29, terming it 'too little, too late', the real action may be unfolding catalyse this movement, government and regulatory support must keep disclosures, streamlined access to green finance, and predictable policy frameworks are critical to support companies that are willing to walk the talk.(THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN CO-AUTHORED BY SHASHANK PRAKASH SRIVASTAV, DOCTORAL SCHOLAR, AND PROFESSOR M. KANNADHASAN, BOTH FROM THE INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT RAIPUR)- Ends
