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India has dropped to 10th place in the Climate Change Performance Index, down from 7th last year. However, it remains among the top 10 performers globally and is the only G20 nation, alongside the UK, in the high-performing category. While India has made significant strides in renewable energy, its continued reliance on coal remains a concern.
The report highlights India's progress in renewable energy, particularly in solar power. However, the slow phase-out of coal remains a challenge. India possesses substantial coal reserves and is currently planning to increase its production.
The report criticised several G20 countries, including the US, China, and Russia, for their low climate performance. These nations, responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, continue to rely heavily on fossil fuels.
The Climate Change Performance Index assesses the climate action of 63 countries, considering factors like greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy, energy use, and climate policy. India received high rankings in GHG emissions and energy use, but a lower ranking in renewable energy. (The Times of India)
Dual approvals streamlined for industries: EC now sufficient
The Indian government has addressed a long-standing industry concern by eliminating the need for both Environmental Clearance (EC) and Consent to Establish (CTE) for new industrial setups. Non-polluting "white category" industries are now exempted from obtaining CTE or Consent to Operate (CTO) altogether.
For other industries, obtaining EC will suffice; CTE will no longer be required. This move aims to reduce regulatory burdens and eliminate redundant approvals.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has issued notifications under the Air Act and Water Act to implement this change. To ensure comprehensive consideration of factors previously addressed during the CTE process, a Standard Operating Procedure has been established for incorporating them within the EC application itself.
State Pollution Control Boards will be consulted during the EC application process. To maintain state revenue, the CTE fee will still be payable by the industry. (Indian Chemical News)
NGT orders pan-India silica mining guidelines and improved healthcare
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to develop comprehensive nationwide guidelines for silica sand mining and washing operations within three months. This follows concerns about the significant health risks associated with silica dust inhalation, including silicosis, a serious occupational lung disease.
The NGT emphasised the need for improved healthcare infrastructure in areas with silica sand mining activities. The Uttar Pradesh government has been instructed to immediately provide specialized medical facilities for affected workers, including those involved in mining and those residing in nearby areas.
The court expressed dissatisfaction with the current regulatory oversight of silica sand mining and washing plants, noting irregularities in operations and a lack of adequate record-keeping and enforcement by authorities.
Several private companies involved in mining activities have been penalised by the NGT.
Advocate Rohit Kumar Tuteja, representing the petitioner in the case, expressed hope that the CPCB's guidelines will effectively address the challenges posed by silica sand mining and improve worker safety and environmental protection. (The Hindu)
Courts crucial for green law enforcement: NGT Chief
Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson of the NGT, highlighted the judiciary's critical role in enforcing environmental laws. Speaking at the Model Forest Act Initiative (MoFAI) in Baku, Azerbaijan, he emphasised the need for judicial mechanisms to hold governments and industries accountable for their environmental obligations. This includes ensuring compliance with international agreements and fostering a culture of sustainability.
Justice Shrivastava stressed the importance of collaboration between national courts and international legal frameworks to address the interconnected challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. He cited numerous instances where the NGT and the Indian Supreme Court intervened to improve environmental law implementation, issuing directives and guidelines to address gaps.
The panel discussion also included Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla from Nepal, Justice Luc Lavrysen from Belgium, and Judge Elisa Samuel Boerekamp from Mozambique, further emphasising the global importance of judicial action in environmental protection.
By actively enforcing environmental laws, the judiciary plays a vital role in safeguarding the planet and promoting a sustainable future for all. (The Times of India)
Government disputes Global Forest Watch tree cover loss data
The Indian government has refuted the Global Forest Watch (GFW) report, which claimed a significant loss of tree cover in India. In an affidavit filed before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the Ministry of Environment and the Forest Survey of India (FSI) stated that the GFW data is "devoid of facts and ground reality" and does not align with internationally accepted norms for assessing forest cover.
The affidavit highlighted that the India State of Forest Report (ISFR), which uses internationally recognized criteria, shows a net increase in forest and tree cover over the past two decades. It emphasised that the GFW's methodology for defining "forest" differs from the ISFR, potentially leading to discrepancies in the data.
The government also disputed the GFW's estimate of carbon dioxide emissions resulting from tree cover loss, stating that such emissions are not applicable as there has been no decrease in forest and tree cover according to the ISFR.
The GFW report, released in April 2024, indicated a significant loss of tree cover in India, particularly in the Northeastern states. It attributed a substantial portion of this loss to the decline in humid primary forests. (The Indian Express)
Assam unveils Agroforestry Policy 2024
The Assam Cabinet has approved the state's Agroforestry Policy 2024, aiming to enhance environmental sustainability and improve rural livelihoods. The policy focuses on increasing forest cover, mitigating climate change, and boosting farmers' incomes. Key initiatives include strengthening the State Agroforestry Board, establishing a reliable Quality Planting Material supply chain, and integrating tree cultivation into existing agricultural practices.
Furthermore, the Cabinet sanctioned 94 projects in the Soil Conservation and Agriculture sectors, including soil conservation initiatives and solar shallow tubewell minor irrigation schemes, with an investment of Rs 70.3332 crore. These projects are funded by NABARD's Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF-XXX) and aim to improve water management and promote sustainable agriculture. (eGov Elets News Network)