Ratifying Paris pact, a right move

The government has rightly decided to ratify the Paris agreement on climate change on October 2, putting an end to some dithering and uncertainty over the matter. India had hinted that some procedural issues might delay its ratification and had subtly linked it to its Nuclear Suppliers Group membership. This was a far-fetched link, especially because nuclear energy does not have a major role in India’s future energy plans under the agreement. India was also not very enthusiastic about the agreement after it was concluded. All this had given rise to doubts that the country had some reservations about it. But dillydallying about it would have affected the country’s credibility, and it had no great reason to delay the ratification after the two biggest emitters, the US and China, had announced it. It would have risked isolation when most other countries, big and small, had come on board.

It is true that India has a bigger burden of poverty than any other country and availability of energy is key to development. Fossil fuels, which leads to large emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), are the main basis for energy production now. So, reduction in the use of fossil fuels presents hard choices. But the overwhelming threat of climate change diminishes other considerations. With the ratification, India will have to start working on its energy plans which have become part of the Paris process. That involves major reduction in GHG emissions, increase in non-fossil fuel capacity, afforestation and other activities. The huge leap to production of 100 gigawatts of solar power by 2022 is part of the plan. Wind power too will get a boost. Wastage of power will have to be reduced and consumption should be made more efficient. Lifestyle and many established practices may be affected. All this calls for major efforts on the part of Central and state governments and almost every agency and authority in both the public and the private sectors. Huge investments are needed.

There is promise of financial assistance from the developed countries after the agreement comes into effect. New technologies are needed. Developing countries will have to hold the rich world to its commitments. Climate change affects everybody but it hits the poor more than others. The cost of fighting it is also more for the poor. The agreement will come into force after 55 countries which account for 55% of global emissions ratify it. The threshold will be crossed when India and the European Union ratify the agreement. The entire world has the responsibility to ensure that it is implemented well to avert the great disaster looming over us.