How does the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities justify India’s climate stance despite its position as the third-largest absolute emitter? Should biodiversity outcomes be prioritised over carbon accounting in forest governance? Comment.

Question

PocketIAS · Accepted Answer

Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Climate Policy in India

Context: India is the third-largest absolute emitter globally but has per capita emissions far below developed nations. Its climate stance is anchored in the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) under the UNFCCC, which recognises historical emissions and varying capacities of countries to mitigate climate change.

Justification of India’s Stance:

Equity and Historical Responsibility: Developed nations contributed disproportionately to cumulative emissions, legitimising India’s focus on sustainable development alongside climate action.
Capacity Constraints: India’s development priorities require balancing poverty alleviation, industrial growth, and energy access while pursuing mitigation.
Climate Targets: India has committed to intensity-based targets (emissions per GDP unit) and renewable capacity expansion, reflecting mitigation efforts consistent with CBDR without compromising development.

Biodiversity vs Carbon Accounting in Forest Governance:

Integrated Approach Needed: Forests provide ecosystem services beyond carbon sequestration, including habitat protection, soil conservation, and water regulation.
Prioritising Biodiversity: Focusing solely on carbon could incentivise monocultures or plantations that harm ecological integrity.
Policy Implications: Biodiversity-centric governance aligns with India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and supports long-term ecological resilience.

Conclusion: CBDR provides a normative and legal basis for India’s climate stance, balancing development and mitigation. In forest governance, biodiversity outcomes should be prioritised alongside carbon accounting to ensure sustainable ecosystem management and climate resilience.

✍️ Practice Mode

Write. Evaluate. Improve. Repeat.

The model answer is ready.

Comments (0)