New DelhiExperts back the proposal by the states to create an environment council. This council would aid in the development of green policies that will implement India’s climate change action.
At the recent World Sustainable Development Summit (WDSD), state representatives suggested a separate body for climate action.
Avinash Chanchal (Campaign manager, Greenpeace India), stated that an agency whose primary mission is to focus on climate action would be able to accelerate action and bring coherence into the actions at the local level.
It is important to ensure accountability for every climate policy that the government announces.
Unfortunately, current policies are not being implemented fully on the ground. Chanchal said Wednesday that these policies don’t have any legal binding.
He stated that the environment council can facilitate and coordinate climate action.
A local agency with a primary mandate to address climate action would be an asset to help accelerate action and bring order to the local level. It can serve as a central hub for coordination and facilitation in climate action. It cannot, however, replace local efforts.
It must act as a bridge and ensure that climate policies are implemented on the ground in spirit and letter. Chanchal said that such agencies could signal our seriousness about climate action.
Bhavreen Kandhari, an environmentalist said that having such a council reduces chances of each person shrugging off responsibility.
It is a welcome step to bring together all states in their individual capacities and put them on one platform with minister for the environment.
Kandhari stated that having a council reduces the chances of people ignoring their responsibilities. This was the case between Delhi, Kandhari and neighboring states regarding the issue of stubble-burning.
Vikrant Tongad is an environmentalist and founder of Social Action for Forest and Environment. He believes that such a council will allow states to tackle climate change more effectively.
We have long demanded this department in the US for years so that states can tackle climate change effectively. He said that now states will be able work effectively on climate change.
Kamal Narayan (CEO, Integrated Health and Wellbeing Council) believes that India can set up a separate environmental council to help it take more targeted climate action.
He said that most laws related to climate change and preservation of the environment are implemented by states.
This includes climate mitigation, climate adaptation, and climate resilience. India committed to reducing carbon emissions at COP26. However, the goal of achieving it beyond preindustrial levels is still a long way away. He said that the creation a single entity, such the environmental council, will facilitate the resolution of problems in this area.
Narayan stated that the council could also assist in the creation of environment-friendly policy, as well as the actions each state must take to protect the environment and decide the future course.
Climate change is a global problem that requires a concerted effort by all governments. India could benefit from an environmental council to bring together all states and Union Territories.
It is urgent that all states unite, put aside differences and work together. He said that India’s goal to be net-zero in 2070 will be achieved by the establishment of an environmental council.
Experts also feel that it is crucial to see how this agency interacts with existing regulatory bodies.
It will be important to see how such an agency interacts and collaborates with the existing regulatory bodies. We need coordinated climate action at all levels, both regionally and nationally, in a strict time-bound fashion.
Chanchal stated that this is necessary in order to strengthen the existing system, Chanchal added. Chanchal also said that sufficient funds are needed to support existing climate plans.
Kandhari shared a similar view and said, “The big issue now is how forcefully the new council will enforce the climate action on-the ground from real vigilante boots on the ground in order to prosecute the violators.”
Aditya Thackeray, Maharashtras Environment Minister, proposed a new environmental council based on the GST Council. This council would be able to set national targets and then implement at the state and local levels.
The session was attended by the Meghalaya Environment Minister, in addition to Maharashtra. James K SangmaTamil Nadu Finance Minister Palanivel Thiagarajan
Delhi airport: An Air India plane carrying around 220 Indians from Ukraine lands.
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