Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction: Define Net-Zero Emissions

• Concept: Net-zero emissions refer to the balance between greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced and those removed from the atmosphere by carbon sinks.
• Importance: Achieving net-zero is crucial to mitigate climate change, protect ecosystems, and ensure sustainable human development.

2. Reasons for Transitioning to Net-Zero Emissions

• Prevent Climate Crisis:
  • Fact: According to the IPCC 2018 report, global GHG emissions must reach net zero by 2050 to limit global warming to below 1.5°C, which is essential to avoid the worst effects of climate change (e.g., more frequent and severe heatwaves, rising sea levels, etc.).
• Improve Public Health:
  • Fact: Reducing emissions would lead to cleaner air, thus decreasing the incidence of respiratory diseases. The GeoHealth Journal reports that reducing emissions from power plants could save nearly 300,000 lives by 2040.
• Foster Innovation and Economic Growth:
  • Fact: Transitioning to net-zero emissions necessitates the development and deployment of clean technologies, leading to new industries, job creation, and economic growth.
• Enhance Energy Security:
  • Fact: Renewable energy is more cost-competitive than fossil fuels, and unlike fossil fuel prices, it is not affected by geopolitical instability, ensuring long-term energy security.

3. India’s Strategy for Achieving Net-Zero Emissions by 2070

• Low Carbon Electricity Systems:
  • Fact: The National Electricity Plan 2023 targets 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030, which will significantly reduce emissions from the energy sector.
  • PLI Scheme (2022): Encourages domestic manufacturing of solar modules, supporting India’s transition to renewable energy.
• Integrated and Efficient Transport System:
  • Fact: India has committed to achieving 100% electric vehicle (EV) adoption by 2030 for two and three-wheelers under the EV Declaration at COP26. The FAME Scheme provides incentives to accelerate the adoption of EVs.
  • Bharat Stage VI Standards: India’s stringent vehicle emission standards aim to reduce vehicular emissions.
• Low Emission Industrial Systems:
  • Fact: India is implementing the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) to reduce industrial emissions by promoting energy efficiency.
  • Energy Conservation Act (2022): Amendments to this Act encourage energy efficiency improvements in industries.
• Sustainable Urbanization:
  • Fact: The Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) and Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) promote energy-efficient urban planning and infrastructure.

4. Conclusion

• Global Commitment: More than 90 countries, representing over 80% of global emissions, have adopted net-zero targets. India’s efforts align with global goals to combat climate change.
• India’s Role: India’s comprehensive strategy across energy, transport, industry, and urbanization reflects its commitment to achieving a sustainable, low-carbon economy by 2070.

Key Facts

• IPCC Report (2018): Global GHG emissions need to reach net zero by 2050 to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
• GeoHealth Journal: Reducing emissions could prevent 300,000 deaths by 2040.
• National Electricity Plan (2023): Target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030.
• PLI Scheme (2022): Promotes domestic solar module manufacturing.
• COP26 Declaration: India’s commitment to 100% EV adoption for two and three-wheelers.
• Energy Conservation Act (2022): Encourages energy efficiency in industries.
• ECBC & EESL: Initiatives promoting energy-efficient urban planning.

This roadmap helps structure a comprehensive response while integrating facts and policies, ensuring that both the reasons for net-zero emissions and India’s specific strategies are covered effectively.