Syllabus: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
Global Emission Trends (2024)
- In 2024, global anthropogenic emissions reached 57,700 MtCO2e, the highest on record.
- Fossil CO₂ emissions from coal, oil and natural gas contributed 69% of total GHG emissions.
- Emissions from power generation were the largest source of fossil CO₂ emissions.
- Other major contributors were industrial combustion, transportation and fuel production.
- Methane (CH₄) emissions accounted for 16% of global emissions, mainly from agriculture and waste management.
- Deforestation and land-use change also contributed significantly to the rise in emissions.
India’s Position in Global Emissions
- India recorded the highest absolute increase in GHG emissions in 2024.
- India was the third-largest emitter after China and the United States, in absolute terms.
- India contributed 165 MtCO2e to the global emission rise of 1,500 MtCO2e.
- China was second, contributing 126 MtCO2e to the same increase.
Per Capita Emission Insights
- India’s per capita emissions were 3 tCO2e in 2024.
- This level remains less than half of the global average of 6.4 tCO2e.
- India’s per capita GHG emissions grew by 3.7% between 2023-24.
- The global average per capita increase during the same period was just 0.04%.
Conclusion
- India’s emissions show a rapid absolute increase, but low per capita levels indicate relatively low emissions intensity.
- Rising emissions highlight the need for sustainable energy and land-use practices.
Q- Discuss India’s strategic dilemma of balancing economic growth with low emissions intensity. (10 Marks)