Quick Revision Environment Part-6

Climate Change Organizations

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

• Objective: To stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations and prevent dangerous interference with the climate system.
• Provides the foundation for climate change treaties and negotiations, including the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

• Objective: To promote environmental sustainability globally and assist in tackling climate change.
• UNEP leads global environmental initiatives, provides policy guidance, and builds climate resilience.

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

• Objective: To provide scientific assessments on climate change, its impacts, and possible response strategies.
• It is the leading international body for climate science, influencing climate policy worldwide.

Global Environment Facility (GEF)

• Objective: To provide funding to developing countries for environmental projects, including climate change mitigation and adaptation.
• Supports projects to help countries achieve climate goals and strengthen resilience to climate impacts.

Green Climate Fund (GCF)

• Objective: To assist developing countries in responding to climate change by providing financial resources for mitigation and adaptation projects.
• It supports the Paris Agreement by facilitating financial flows to developing nations for climate action.

International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

• Objective: To promote the adoption and sustainable use of renewable energy.
• IRENA helps countries transition to clean energy, aiming for a low-carbon future.

World Resources Institute (WRI)

• Objective: To help countries and businesses tackle environmental and development challenges.
• WRI provides scientific research and advocacy, including climate action strategies for global sustainability.

Climate Action Network (CAN)

• Objective: To build a powerful network of NGOs for global climate advocacy and action.
• CAN mobilizes civil society efforts and advocates for climate justice, aiming for bold global action on climate change.

International Energy Agency (IEA)

• Objective: To promote energy security, clean energy, and the transition to sustainable energy systems.
• IEA tracks global energy trends, provides data and policy advice, and supports energy transitions for climate goals.

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) (India)

• Conducts research and implements projects on sustainable development and climate change.

World Wildlife Fund (WWF)

• Works on conservation and climate change mitigation, focusing on biodiversity and sustainable development.

Greenpeace

• Advocates for climate action through campaigns, research, and direct action.

International Organizations

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Research and Academic Institutions

Private Sector and Philanthropic Organizations

Youth-Led and Grassroots Organizations

Regional and National Organizations

International Conventions to tackle Climate Change

1. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

• Established: 1992 (Entered into force in 1994)
• Objective: To stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that prevents dangerous human interference with the climate system.
• Key Features:
  • Provides a framework for international climate negotiations.
  • Annual Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings to review progress.
• Achievements: Led to the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement.

2. Kyoto Protocol

• Established: 1997 (Entered into force in 2005)
• Objective: To reduce greenhouse gas emissions from industrialized countries.
• Key Features:
  • Legally binding emission reduction targets for developed countries.
  • Introduced market-based mechanisms like the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), Emissions Trading, and Joint Implementation.
• Achievements: Demonstrated the feasibility of international cooperation on climate action, though its impact was limited by the withdrawal of key countries like the U.S.

3. Paris Agreement

• Established: 2015 (Entered into force in 2016)
• Objective: To limit global warming to well below 2°C (preferably 1.5°C) above pre-industrial levels.
• Key Features:
  • Countries submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) outlining their climate action plans.
  • Emphasis on adaptation, mitigation, and financial support for developing countries.
  • Global stocktake every 5 years to assess progress.
• Achievements: Universal participation (nearly all countries are signatories), with a focus on long-term goals and transparency.

4. Montreal Protocol

• Established: 1987 (Entered into force in 1989)
• Objective: To phase out ozone-depleting substances (ODS) like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
• Key Features:
  • Legally binding targets for reducing ODS.
  • Kigali Amendment (2016) extended the protocol to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases.
• Achievements: Considered one of the most successful environmental treaties, with the ozone layer on track to recover by mid-century.

5. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

• Established: 1992 (Entered into force in 1993)
• Objective: To conserve biological diversity, promote sustainable use of its components, and ensure fair sharing of benefits from genetic resources.
• Key Features:
  • Addresses the link between biodiversity and climate change.
  • Includes the Aichi Biodiversity Targets (2010–2020) and the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.
• Achievements: Raised global awareness about biodiversity loss and its connection to climate change.

6. Ramsar Convention

• Established: 1971 (Entered into force in 1975)
• Objective: To conserve and sustainably use wetlands.
• Key Features:
  • Recognizes wetlands as critical ecosystems for climate regulation and biodiversity.
  • Promotes international cooperation on wetland conservation.
• Achievements: Designated over 2,400 Ramsar sites worldwide, covering more than 2.5 million square kilometers.

7. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)

• Established: 1994 (Entered into force in 1996)
• Objective: To combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought.
• Key Features:
  • Focuses on sustainable land management and restoration.
  • Addresses the link between land degradation and climate change.
• Achievements: Promoted land restoration initiatives and integrated land-use planning.

8. International Maritime Organization (IMO) Initiatives

• Key Initiatives:
  • International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL): Addresses marine pollution, including greenhouse gas emissions from shipping.
  • IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships: Aims to reduce emissions by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008 levels.
• Achievements: Set global standards for reducing emissions from the shipping industry.

9. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Initiatives

• Key Initiatives:
  • Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA): Aims to stabilize CO₂ emissions at 2020 levels by requiring airlines to offset emissions growth.
• Achievements: First global market-based measure for any sector.

10. Global Environment Facility (GEF)

• Established: 1991
• Objective: To provide funding for environmental projects, including climate change mitigation and adaptation.
• Key Features:
  • Supports projects in developing countries.
  • Works as a financial mechanism for several conventions, including the UNFCCC and CBD.
• Achievements: Funded thousands of projects worldwide, contributing to climate resilience and sustainability.

11. Green Climate Fund (GCF)

• Established: 2010
• Objective: To support developing countries in mitigating and adapting to climate change.
• Key Features:
  • Provides financial assistance for projects related to renewable energy, forest conservation, and climate resilience.
  • Aims to balance funding between mitigation and adaptation.
• Achievements: Mobilized billions of dollars for climate action in developing countries.

12. UN-REDD (United Nations Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation)

• Established: 2008
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• Objective: Supports developing countries in implementing REDD+ strategies to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.
• Key Organizations Involved: FAO, UNDP, UNEP
• Focus Areas:
  • Providing technical and financial assistance for forest conservation.
  • Strengthening forest governance and sustainable management.
  • Supporting indigenous communities dependent on forests.

13. REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation PLUS)

• Evolved From: REDD (2005, UNFCCC COP-11 in Montreal)
• India adopted a National REDD+ Strategy in 2018.
• Objective: Expands REDD by adding three additional components to promote sustainable forest management:
  1. Conservation of forest carbon stocks
  2. Sustainable forest management
  3. Enhancement of forest carbon stocks
• Key Role:
  • Provides financial incentives to developing nations for protecting forests.
  • Ensures climate mitigation by increasing carbon sequestration.
  • Encourages participation of local and indigenous communities.

14. Bonn Convention or Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)

• The Bonn Convention is an agreement under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).  
• It aims to conserve migratory species – those animals that move across national borders – throughout their ranges. This includes animals that migrate on land, in water, and in the air.
• Appendices: The Convention has two Appendices:
  • Appendix I: Lists species that are endangered and require strict protection.  
  • Appendix II: Lists species that need or would significantly benefit from international cooperation.

15. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – 1973

• Adopted: 1973 | Came into Force: 1975 | HQ: Geneva, Switzerland
• Objective: Regulate international trade in endangered species to prevent extinction.
• Three Appendices:
  • Appendix I: Strictest protection (e.g., Bengal Tiger, Snow Leopard).
  • Appendix II: Regulated trade (e.g., Agarwood, Indian Star Tortoise).
  • Appendix III: Protected in at least one country (e.g., Indian Pangolin).

16. Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

• Adopted: 1971 in Ramsar, Iran
• Came into Force: 1975
• HQ: Gland, Switzerland
• India Signed: 1982

Objective:

• Conservation and wise use of wetlands through local, national, and international cooperation.
• Recognizes wetlands as ecosystems of international importance, especially for waterfowl habitat.

Key Features:

1. Ramsar Sites: Wetlands of International Importance are designated as Ramsar Sites.
2. Montreux Record: A list of threatened Ramsar sites due to ecological changes.
3. Three Pillars of the Convention:
   • Wise Use of Wetlands
   • Designation of Wetlands of International Importance
   • International Cooperation

India and Ramsar Convention:

• Total Ramsar Sites in India (as of January 2025): 89 (Largest in Asia)
• Highest number of Ramsar sites: Tamil Nadu (20)
• Largest Ramsar Site in India: Sundarbans Wetland (West Bengal)
• Smallest Ramsar Site in India: Renuka Wetland (Himachal Pradesh)
• First Ramsar Sites in India (1981): Chilika Lake (Odisha) & second site was Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan)

Conventions & Organizations

Sustainable Development

Definition:

Sustainable development is defined as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (Brundtland Report, 1987). It integrates three core pillars:

• Economic Growth: Ensuring prosperity and improved living standards.
• Social Inclusion: Promoting equity, justice, and well-being for all.
• Environmental Protection: Preserving natural resources and ecosystems.

Nature of Sustainable Development

• Intergenerational Equity: Ensuring that future generations have access to the same resources and opportunities as the current generation.
• Intragenerational Equity: Addressing inequalities within the current generation, particularly between developed and developing nations.
• Integration of Pillars: Balancing economic, social, and environmental goals rather than prioritizing one over the others.
• Long-Term Perspective: Focusing on long-term impacts and sustainability rather than short-term gains.
• Participatory Approach: Involving all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, communities, and individuals.

Scope of Sustainable Development

Sustainable development applies to all sectors and levels of society, including:

• Energy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency.
• Agriculture: Promoting sustainable farming practices and food security.
• Urban Development: Building smart, resilient, and inclusive cities.
• Industry: Encouraging green technologies and circular economies.
• Transportation: Developing low-carbon and efficient transport systems.
• Education and Health: Ensuring access to quality education and healthcare.
• Biodiversity: Protecting ecosystems and endangered species.
• Water and Sanitation: Managing water resources sustainably and ensuring access to clean water.

Components of Sustainable Development

Sustainable development is built on three interconnected components:

a) Economic Sustainability

• Focuses on maintaining economic growth without depleting natural resources.
• Promotes innovation, green technologies, and sustainable business practices.
• Examples: Circular economy, green jobs, and sustainable tourism.

b) Social Sustainability

• Aims to create inclusive, equitable, and just societies.
• Ensures access to basic needs like education, healthcare, and housing.
• Examples: Poverty eradication, gender equality, and community development.

c) Environmental Sustainability

• Protects and conserves natural resources and ecosystems.
• Minimizes pollution, waste, and carbon emissions.
• Examples: Renewable energy, reforestation, and conservation of biodiversity.

Goals of Sustainable Development (SDGs – UN 2030 Agenda)

In 2015, the United Nations adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under the 2030 Agenda.

1. No Poverty – Eradicate poverty in all forms.
2. Zero Hunger – Ensure food security and sustainable agriculture.
3. Good Health & Well-being – Promote healthcare for all.
4. Quality Education – Ensure inclusive and equitable education.
5. Gender Equality – Empower women and promote equality.
6. Clean Water & Sanitation – Provide access to safe drinking water.
7. Affordable & Clean Energy – Promote renewable energy sources.
8. Decent Work & Economic Growth – Ensure sustainable economic progress.
9. Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure – Build resilient infrastructure.
10. Reduced Inequality – Promote social and economic inclusion.
11. Sustainable Cities & Communities – Create eco-friendly urban areas.
12. Responsible Consumption & Production – Promote sustainable resource use.
13. Climate Action – Combat climate change.
14. Life Below Water – Protect marine ecosystems.
15. Life on Land – Promote biodiversity conservation.
16. Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions – Strengthen governance.
17. Partnerships for the Goals – Global cooperation for sustainability.

India and Sustainable Development Initiatives

• India is committed to the United Nations 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Ranked 112th in the SDG Index 2023 with significant progress in areas like renewable energy, poverty reduction, and climate action.
• Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) developed the National Indicator Framework (NIF) to track SDG progress.
• Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) India Index is a tool developed by NITI Aayog to measure and track India’s progress towards the SDGs set by the United Nations.

Economic Sustainability Initiatives

1. Make in India – Promotes sustainable industrial growth.
2. Startup India & Standup India – Encourages sustainable entrepreneurship.
3. Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) – Strengthens domestic production with a focus on sustainability.
4. National Smart Cities Mission – Builds eco-friendly urban infrastructure.
5. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) – Provides sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Environmental Sustainability Initiatives

1. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) – 2008
   • 8 Missions, including National Solar Mission, National Water Mission, Green India Mission, etc.
2. State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs) – State-level sustainability plans.
3. Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) – Supports electric mobility.
4. National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) – Funds climate adaptation projects.
5. Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) – 2014 – Promotes sanitation and waste management.
6. Namami Gange Programme – Focuses on river rejuvenation.
7. National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP) – Protects India’s rich biodiversity.
8. Energy Efficiency Schemes (PAT, UJALA, STAR Labelling) – Focuses on energy conservation.

Social Sustainability Initiatives

1. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) – 2015 – Promotes gender equality and education.
2. Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) – 2018 – Provides universal healthcare.
3. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) – Ensures housing for all.
4. Jal Jeevan Mission – 2019 – Aims for universal access to clean drinking water.
5. Saubhagya Scheme – Provides electricity access to all households.
6. POSHAN Abhiyan – 2018 – Tackles malnutrition and hunger.
7. Skill India Mission – Focuses on employment and vocational training.

India’s Role in Global Sustainable Development

1. International Solar Alliance (ISA) – Launched by India & France to promote solar energy globally.
2. Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) – Aims to reduce disaster risks.
3. Lead in G20 Presidency (2023) – Focused on green growth & climate finance.
4. Paris Agreement (2015) & India’s NDCs (2022-2030) –
   • Reduce GDP emissions intensity by 45% by 2030.
   • Achieve 50% energy capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030.
5. Long-Term Low Emissions Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) – COP27 – Aims for Net Zero by 2070.

Source: GOI Websites, PIB, Internet