1
Net Zero Emissions & Carbon Neutrality — Concepts Explained
The most important concept in current climate negotiations — what it means, how it’s achieved, who has pledged what
💡 Net Zero = Filling a Bucket as Fast as You’re Draining It
Imagine the atmosphere as a bucket filling with water (CO₂). Net Zero doesn’t mean turning off the tap completely — it means adding as much water back as you’re taking out. A country achieves Net Zero when the CO₂ it emits is exactly balanced by the CO₂ it removes — through forests, technology (Carbon Capture and Storage), or paying other countries to remove it. Carbon Neutral is often used as a synonym. Climate Neutral is broader — includes ALL greenhouse gases, not just CO₂.
Net Zero — Key Concepts for UPSC
- Net Zero: A state where a country’s total GHG emissions are balanced by GHG removals — so that the net addition to the atmosphere is zero. Does NOT mean zero emissions — some “residual” emissions are acceptable if offset by removals.
- Carbon Neutral: Often used synonymously with Net Zero in popular usage. Technically refers specifically to CO₂ (not all GHGs), but UPSC and most policy documents use it interchangeably with Net Zero.
- Climate Neutral: Broader — includes all greenhouse gases. More demanding than Net Zero because it includes warming effects of non-CO₂ gases like methane, N₂O, HFCs.
- Carbon Negative (Climate Positive): Removing MORE CO₂ from atmosphere than emitting — going beyond Net Zero. Bhutan already claims to be carbon negative (its vast forests absorb more than it emits).
- Why Net Zero by 2050? IPCC AR6 (2023) found that to limit warming to 1.5°C, the world needs to reach net zero CO₂ emissions by around 2050. Some countries achieving net zero later must compensate by being more ambitious in near-term cuts.
- How is Net Zero achieved?
- Reduce emissions: Switch from fossil fuels to renewables | Electrify transport and heating | Improve energy efficiency | Decarbonise industry
- Remove CO₂: Afforestation/reforestation (natural sinks) | REDD+ (protect existing forests) | Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) | Direct Air Capture (DAC) | BECCS (Bioenergy + CCS)
- Offset remaining emissions: Carbon markets — buy credits from other countries/projects that have achieved additional reductions
- Global status: 101 parties covering 82% of global GHG emissions have adopted net-zero pledges (as of UNEP EGR 2024) — 28 in law, 56 in policy documents, 17 as government announcements. But pledges ≠ delivery.
Net Zero Pledges — Country Comparison
🇧🇹
Bhutan
Already!
Already carbon negative — tiny nation, vast forests absorb more than it emits. Role model for small nations.
🇪🇺
European Union
2050
Legally binding under EU Climate Law. European Green Deal. New NDC: 66.25-72.5% cut by 2035 vs 1990.
🇬🇧
United Kingdom
2050
First G7 country to legislate Net Zero. Stopped issuing new fossil fuel licenses. Ranked 6th in CCPI 2026.
🇺🇸
USA
2050
Biden pledged Net Zero by 2050. Trump withdrew from Paris Agreement in 2025 — future of pledge uncertain. CCPI ranks USA very low (64th).
🇨🇳
China
2060
World’s largest emitter. Carbon neutral by 2060 pledge. Peak emissions committed by 2030 (UNEP EGR 2025: may peak in 2025). Ranked 54th in CCPI 2025.
🇮🇳
India
2070
Announced at COP26 Glasgow 2021 by PM Modi. Latest among major emitters — justified by CBDR and per-capita equity. NITI Aayog leading implementation strategy.
European Green Deal — Updated 2025
European Green Deal — Key Facts for UPSC
- Launched: December 2019 by European Commission | The EU’s “growth strategy” for the 21st century
- Core target: EU to be climate neutral (Net Zero) by 2050 — made legally binding in the European Climate Law (2021)
- Updated 2030 target: At least 55% reduction in net GHG emissions by 2030 (vs 1990 levels) — the “Fit for 55” package. Further updated in EU’s NDC for COP30: 66.25–72.5% reduction by 2035.
- Key components:
- EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) — world’s largest carbon market since 2005
- European Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) — a “carbon tariff” on imports from countries with weaker carbon pricing (effective 2026). Impacts India’s exports in steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, electricity.
- 100% zero-emission new cars by 2035 (phasing out petrol/diesel car sales)
- Renewable energy target: 42.5% by 2030
- Hydrogen Strategy, Farm to Fork (sustainable agriculture)
- India’s concern with CBAM: India’s exports (steel, aluminium) could face higher tariffs in EU markets — a trade concern connected to climate policy. India argues this is unfair to developing countries.
2
India’s Net Zero 2070 — Panchamrit & Updated NDC
PM Modi’s five-point climate pledge at COP26 Glasgow · NITI Aayog leading strategy · India’s objections to Net Zero 2050
🌿 India’s “Panchamrit” — Five Climate Pledges (COP26 Glasgow 2021)
- 1. Reach 500 GW non-fossil energy capacity by 2030 (up from earlier 450 GW target)
- 2. Meet 50% of energy requirements from renewable energy by 2030
- 3. Reduce total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030
- 4. Reduce the carbon intensity of the economy by 45% by 2030 (compared to 2005 levels)
- 5. Achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070
- Status check (2024): India has already achieved 50% non-fossil installed capacity ahead of schedule (PM Modi statement, 2025). Solar capacity additions are ahead of pace. Carbon intensity reduction is on track.
India’s Updated NDC (2022) — What Changed from INDC?
- India submitted its updated NDC in August 2022 — incorporating the Panchamrit commitments formally into the UNFCCC system
- Emissions intensity: Raised target from 33–35% to 45% reduction by 2030 (vs 2005 base year)
- Non-fossil electricity: Raised from 40% to 50% of cumulative installed electric power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030
- Carbon sink: Create additional carbon sink of 2.5–3 billion tonnes CO₂ equivalent by 2030 through forest and tree cover
- Net Zero: India submitted Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) at COP27 Sharm el-Sheikh (2022) — confirming Net Zero by 2070
- NITI Aayog: Formed 6 dedicated multi-sectoral working groups in 2024 to prepare sector-specific action plans and policy roadmaps for achieving Net Zero by 2070. Deadline: October 2024.
India’s Objections and Arguments — Why 2070, Not 2050?
India’s Principled Position on Net Zero
- Historical responsibility: India has contributed only ~4% of cumulative global emissions since industrialisation, despite having 18% of world’s population. Why should India pay for a problem it didn’t create?
- Per capita equity: India’s per capita emissions are ~2.9 tCO₂e — the global average is 6.6, USA is ~14. India has far more development headroom on a per-capita basis.
- Development imperative: India still has 300 million people in energy poverty. 750 million people depend on agriculture. Growth requires energy. Cutting emissions aggressively now would hurt the poor most.
- Carbon budget equity: If the remaining carbon budget (200 GtCO₂ for 1.5°C) is shared on a per-capita basis, developed countries that already over-consumed their share should reach Net Zero much earlier — leaving developing nations more room.
- Finance conditionality: India argues it can achieve Net Zero faster if developed countries deliver adequate climate finance ($1 trillion commitment) and technology transfer. Net Zero pledges without finance are “hot air.”
- LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment): India argues that addressing consumption patterns in rich countries (where per-capita consumption is 5–10× higher) is equally important. PM Modi proposed LiFE at COP26 — now a global movement.
- Net Zero 2050 not mandated: The Paris Agreement does NOT require Net Zero by 2050 specifically — it requires reaching global net zero “in the second half of the century.” India argues 2070 is consistent with Paris goals when India’s historical context is considered.
3
NDCs and INDCs — What’s the Difference?
A classic UPSC confusion — INDC became NDC when Paris Agreement entered into force in 2016
INDC vs NDC — Clarity for Students
- INDC (Intended Nationally Determined Contribution): The name used BEFORE the Paris Agreement entered into force (November 2016). Countries submitted their “intended” pledges ahead of COP21 Paris 2015. The word “Intended” indicated these were proposals, not yet formally binding under any treaty. India’s original INDC was submitted in October 2015.
- NDC (Nationally Determined Contribution): Once the Paris Agreement entered into force (November 4, 2016), INDCs automatically became NDCs — the same document, just now formally part of the treaty. “Intended” was dropped because the agreement was now in force.
- Key point: Every country is required to submit updated NDCs every 5 years with increased ambition (ratchet mechanism). India’s first NDC = original INDC | India’s updated NDC = August 2022 submission incorporating Panchamrit targets.
- NDC 3.0: The round of NDCs due in 2025 (covering 2035 targets, submitted ahead of COP30). Most major emitters missed the February 2025 submission deadline — India was one of them (deadline missed per UNEP EGR 2025).
India’s INDC vs Updated NDC — Quick Comparison
| Target | India’s Original INDC (2015) | India’s Updated NDC (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Emissions Intensity | 33–35% reduction by 2030 (vs 2005) | 45% reduction by 2030 (vs 2005) |
| Non-fossil capacity | 40% cumulative installed capacity by 2030 | 50% cumulative installed capacity by 2030 |
| Renewable capacity | 175 GW by 2022 (later raised to 450 GW by 2030) | 500 GW non-fossil by 2030 |
| Carbon sink | 2.5–3 billion tonnes CO₂ equivalent by 2030 | Same: 2.5–3 Bn tonnes CO₂e by 2030 |
| Net Zero target | Not mentioned | Net Zero by 2070 (via LT-LEDS at COP27) |
| Finance demand | $2.5 trillion 2015–2030 | $1 trillion climate finance demand |
4
REDD+ & UN-REDD — Forests as Climate Solutions
Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation — worth up to 5 GtCO₂e/year · Article 5 of Paris Agreement
💡 REDD+ = Pay Countries to Keep Their Forests Standing
Deforestation accounts for about 11% of global CO₂ emissions — more than all vehicles in the world combined. REDD+ is a simple but revolutionary idea: instead of cutting down forests (which is economically tempting for developing countries), rich countries pay developing countries to keep their forests standing — and the developing country earns carbon credits in return. It’s a win-win-win: less deforestation, more carbon absorbed, and money for development.
REDD+ — Complete UPSC Profile
- Full name: Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (the “+” covers conservation, sustainable management, and enhancement of forest carbon stocks)
- What the “+” includes: Beyond just stopping deforestation and degradation — conservation of existing forest carbon stocks | Sustainable management of forests | Enhancement of forest carbon stocks (afforestation/reforestation)
- Scale: Deforestation and forest degradation = ~11% of global CO₂ emissions. REDD+ mitigation potential: over 5 GtCO₂e per year — could provide more than one quarter of all emissions reductions needed by 2030
- Warsaw Framework for REDD+ (COP19, 2013): The foundational framework adopted at COP19 in Warsaw. Provides methodological and financing guidance for REDD+ implementation. Sets requirements for: National strategy, Forest Reference Emission Levels (FREL), Measurement Reporting and Verification (MRV), Safeguards Information System.
- Paris Agreement Article 5: Explicitly recognises REDD+ and the role of forests in climate mitigation. Encourages parties to take action to conserve and enhance forest carbon sinks.
- 118 countries have included forest and land use in their NDCs — representing 162 million hectares of restored, reforested and afforested land
- GCF REDD+ permanent window (2024): In October 2024, the Green Climate Fund Board adopted a policy establishing REDD+ results-based payments as a permanent standing funding window within GCF — replacing the previous pilot programme (2017-2022). Major institutional advance for REDD+ financing.
- Criticisms of REDD+: “Leakage” — deforestation shifts to unprotected areas | “Additionality” question — would forests have been preserved anyway? | Land rights of indigenous communities ignored | “Carbon colonialism” — rich countries buying their way out while forests in developing countries are restricted | Benefit-sharing with local communities inadequate.
REDD+ — Three Phases
Phase 1
Readiness
Design national REDD+ strategy | Build capacity | Consult stakeholders (especially indigenous communities) | Set up monitoring systems. Funded through GCF and bilateral support.
Phase 2
Implementation
Implement national strategies | Carry out demonstration activities | Set up forest reference emission levels (FRELs) | Begin monitoring deforestation rates. Still needs external financing.
Phase 3
Results-Based Payments
Verified emission reductions measured against FRELs | Countries receive results-based finance from GCF, bilateral sources, and voluntary carbon markets for each tonne of CO₂ not emitted. The incentive payoff phase.
UN-REDD Programme Updated
UN-REDD Programme — Latest Data
- What it is: Joint programme of FAO, UNDP, and UNEP — the largest international provider of REDD+ technical assistance
- Partner countries: 65 partner countries globally — in Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America/Caribbean
- UN-REDD 2024 Annual Report: Focus on strengthening forest targets in NDCs ahead of COP30. Only 8 of the top 20 countries with highest tropical deforestation rates had quantified forest targets in their NDCs (finding from June 2024 report) — a major gap.
- REDD+ and Article 6: UN-REDD is actively working to align REDD+ with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement (COP29-operationalised carbon markets) — so REDD+ credits can flow through the new international trading framework.
COP30 Deforestation Outcomes Latest 2025
🔴 COP30 Belém — Forest and Deforestation Outcomes
- Deforestation Roadmap (COP30 Presidency announcement): Brazil’s COP30 President announced a dedicated roadmap to “halt and reverse deforestation by 2030” — outside the formal COP text. More than 90 countries supported this initiative. Roadmap will be led by governments, international organisations, civil society, and Indigenous Peoples, with outcomes presented at COP31.
- Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF): Brazil formally launched the TFFF at COP30 — a proposed mechanism to mobilise up to USD 4 billion annually to reward 74 tropical and subtropical forest countries for maintaining forest cover. Links verified forest conservation to direct financial incentives. Aspirational fund size raised to $125 billion over time. Still in design phase — funding not yet secured.
- Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF): A World Bank-managed fund supporting countries to develop REDD+ strategies and providing results-based payments. Works alongside UN-REDD. Has supported 47 developing countries to date.
- BioCarbon Fund: A World Bank initiative mobilising financing for land use, land use change, and forestry (LULUCF) projects — pays for carbon sequestration in forests, grasslands, and agricultural lands through results-based payments.
- UN SG at COP30: António Guterres stated: “It is imperative to halt and reverse deforestation by 2030 – so nature remains a shield, not a casualty.”
5
CCAC, GHG Protocol & Other Key Initiatives
Short-Lived Climate Pollutants · Black Carbon · Methane · Carbon Accounting Standards · GCCA+
CCAC — Climate and Clean Air Coalition
- Full name: Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants
- Launched: February 2012 | by USA, Canada, Mexico, Sweden, Ghana, Bangladesh, and UNEP
- Secretariat: UNEP, Paris
- Focus: Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) — pollutants with relatively short atmospheric lifetime compared to CO₂, but very high warming potential in the near term:
- Black Carbon (BC): Soot from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, biomass, and biofuel. Atmospheric lifetime: days to weeks. Warming potential 460–1,500× CO₂ over 20 years. Also causes severe air pollution and respiratory disease. Major sources: diesel vehicles, cookstoves, crop burning, brick kilns.
- Methane (CH₄): 80× more potent than CO₂ over 20 years. Sources: livestock (enteric fermentation), landfills, oil and gas leaks, rice paddies, coal mines. Atmospheric lifetime: ~12 years.
- Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs): Used as refrigerants (replacing CFCs/HCFCs). Being phased down under Kigali Amendment to Montreal Protocol.
- Ground-level Ozone (tropospheric O₃): Formed from reactions of other pollutants. Damages crops, ecosystems, human health.
- Why CCAC matters: Reducing SLCPs can provide near-term climate benefits (IPCC: reducing SLCPs could slow warming by 0.5°C by 2050) WHILE also improving air quality → saves millions of lives. Synergy between climate action and air pollution reduction.
- India and CCAC: India is a member of CCAC. India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) targets air quality improvement — aligns with CCAC goals. Cookstove improvement and transition to clean cooking (PM Ujjwala Yojana) reduces black carbon significantly.
- Global Methane Pledge: Launched at COP26 Glasgow 2021 — over 150 countries pledged to collectively reduce methane emissions at least 30% by 2030 compared to 2020 levels. India did NOT join (food security concerns — livestock/rice paddies are major methane sources).
GHG Protocol — The Global Carbon Accounting Standard
- Full name: Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol)
- Published by: World Resources Institute (WRI) + World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) — partnership between NGO and private sector
- What it is: The most widely used international standard for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions by companies, cities, and countries. Not a legal treaty — a voluntary technical standard.
- Why it matters: Before GHG Protocol, there was no common language for measuring emissions. GHG Protocol created standardised methods so emissions data from different companies/countries can be compared and verified.
- Key standards published:
- Corporate Standard: How companies measure and report their own emissions (Scope 1, 2, 3)
- Project Protocol: How to calculate emission reductions from specific projects (used in CDM/carbon markets)
- Country Standard: For national GHG inventories
- Scope 1, 2, 3 (important for Mains): Scope 1 = direct emissions from own operations | Scope 2 = indirect from purchased electricity/heat | Scope 3 = all other indirect emissions in value chain (supply chain, consumer use of products). Scope 3 is typically the largest but hardest to measure.
GCCA+ and Other Initiatives — Quick Reference
- GCCA+ (Global Climate Change Alliance Plus): EU-funded initiative supporting the world’s most vulnerable developing countries (LDCs and SIDS) to integrate climate change into poverty reduction strategies and development plans. Focus on dialogue, knowledge, and finance for adaptation.
- GACSA (Global Alliance for Climate-Smart Agriculture): Voluntary alliance of governments, international organisations, civil society, and private sector to promote “climate-smart agriculture” — farming that increases productivity AND builds resilience AND reduces emissions. India participates.
- Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF): World Bank-managed. Helps developing countries build capacity for REDD+ and provides results-based payments. 47 partner countries. Phases: Readiness Fund + Carbon Fund.
- BioCarbon Fund Initiative for Sustainable Forest Landscapes (ISFL): World Bank. Goes beyond project-level REDD+ to support entire landscape-level emission reductions — covering agriculture AND forests together. Works in Oromia (Ethiopia), Zambia, Colombia, Indonesia, Bangladesh.
- LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment): India’s concept proposed by PM Modi at COP26 Glasgow 2021. Launched as global movement in October 2022 at UN General Assembly. Promotes individual behaviour change towards sustainable consumption. Contrasts with the dominant Western “Use-and-Dispose” model with an “environmentally conscious lifestyle.” UPSC tested.
6
Arctic Council & India’s Arctic Engagement
Ottawa Declaration 1996 · 8 Arctic states · India: Observer since 2013 · Himadri station 2008 · India’s first winter expedition March 2024
💡 The Arctic Is India’s Weather Machine — Understanding the Connection
What happens in the Arctic doesn’t stay in the Arctic. The melting Arctic sea ice is directly linked to India’s monsoon patterns — as the temperature difference between the Arctic and tropics decreases (Arctic warming 4× faster than global average), the jet stream weakens and becomes erratic → disrupting the Western Disturbances and monsoon circulation that India depends on for 60%+ of its agriculture. India needs to study the Arctic not just for science — but for its own food security and climate adaptation.
Arctic Council — Complete UPSC Profile
- Established: 1996 by the Ottawa Declaration (Ottawa, Canada)
- What it is: An intergovernmental forum for cooperation, coordination, and dialogue among Arctic states, indigenous peoples, and other residents — on issues of Arctic environment and sustainable development. NOT a treaty-based legal entity like the UN.
- The 8 Arctic Member States: Canada, Denmark (Greenland), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, United States — the countries with territory within the Arctic Circle. All decisions by consensus.
- Permanent Participants: 6 organisations representing Arctic indigenous peoples — Aleut International Association, Arctic Athabaskan Council, Gwich’in Council International, Inuit Circumpolar Council, Russian Association of Indigenous Peoples of the North (RAIPON), Saami Council. Unique feature — indigenous peoples have formal voice in governance.
- Observers: 13 non-Arctic countries including India, China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Germany, France, UK, etc. + 14 intergovernmental organisations (UNEP, WMO, IMO, etc.) + 14 NGOs. Observers can attend meetings, submit statements, but cannot vote.
- Focus areas: Climate change | Arctic biodiversity | Indigenous peoples’ rights | Arctic Ocean shipping | Contaminants and pollution | Sustainable development
- Post-Ukraine war disruption: When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the other 7 Arctic states suspended participation in Arctic Council meetings with Russia. The Council’s work has been significantly hampered — Russia holds the largest Arctic territory.
India and the Arctic Current Affairs 2024-25
🔴 India’s Arctic Engagement — Timeline and Latest Updates
- 1920: India signed the Svalbard Treaty in Paris — giving India the right to conduct scientific activities in Svalbard
- 2007: India launched its first scientific Arctic expedition — studies in Arctic microbiology, atmospheric sciences, and geology
- 2008: India established its first Arctic research station — Himadri — at Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, Norway. One of only a few developing nations with an Arctic research base.
- 2014: India deployed IndARC — its first multi-sensor moored observatory in Kongsfjorden, Svalbard. Monitors ocean temperatures, currents, and their relationship to Indian monsoon. (UPSC Prelims 2015 asked about IndARC)
- 2013: India received Observer status in the Arctic Council — along with China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and other Asian nations. Re-elected as observer in 2019.
- 2016: India established its northernmost atmospheric laboratory at Gurvebadet, Svalbard — studies Arctic aerosols, black carbon
- 2022: India released its Arctic Policy 2022 (released by Ministry of Earth Sciences) — titled “India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development.” Six pillars: Science & Research | Climate & Environment Protection | Economic & Human Development | Transportation & Connectivity | Governance & International Cooperation | National Capacity Building.
- March 2024 🆕: India successfully completed its first-ever winter Arctic expedition — a historic milestone. Winter expeditions are far more challenging (extreme cold, darkness, ice conditions) than summer expeditions. Operated by National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR). Objective: study Arctic winter ocean dynamics and their link to Indian monsoon patterns.
- Arctic Circle India Forum 2025: Held in New Delhi — highlighted India’s growing role in Arctic affairs. Brings together policymakers, scientists, and business representatives to discuss Arctic opportunities and challenges.
- NCPOR: National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (headquartered in Goa) — the nodal agency for India’s Arctic research. Coordinates Himadri station and all Arctic expeditions.
- Why Arctic matters for India:
- Arctic melt affects Indian monsoon (jet stream weakening → erratic rainfall)
- Himalayan glaciers mirror Arctic changes — understanding Arctic helps predict Himalayan ice loss
- Northern Sea Route (NSR) — cuts India–Europe shipping distance by 40%
- Arctic resources (oil, gas, rare minerals) — strategic energy interest
- Geopolitics — Russia-China Arctic cooperation affects Indian Ocean balance
- India’s challenge (Vision IAS 2025): India’s purely scientific posture in the Arctic may be insufficient as the region becomes increasingly geopolitically contested (Russia-China axis, US interest in Greenland, shipping route rivalries). India needs to evolve from observer to strategic stakeholder.
⭐ International Conventions Part II — Mega Cheat Sheet
- Net Zero: Emissions balanced by removals = net zero addition to atmosphere | Does NOT mean zero emissions | Carbon Neutral (CO₂ only) ≈ Net Zero | Climate Neutral = all GHGs
- Carbon Negative: Removes more than emits. Bhutan = already carbon negative. Most ambitious state.
- Net Zero targets: EU = 2050 (EU Climate Law) | UK = 2050 | USA = 2050 (uncertain under Trump) | China = 2060 | India = 2070 (COP26 Glasgow, Nov 2021, PM Modi)
- Panchamrit (India, COP26 2021): (1) 500 GW non-fossil by 2030 (2) 50% energy from renewables by 2030 (3) Cut 1 billion tonnes CO₂ by 2030 (4) 45% emissions intensity by 2030 vs 2005 (5) Net Zero by 2070
- India’s Updated NDC (2022): 45% intensity (vs 33-35% original) | 50% non-fossil capacity (vs 40%) | 500 GW (vs 450 GW) | Carbon sink 2.5-3 Bn tonnes CO₂e | Net Zero 2070
- India’s objections to Net Zero 2050: Historical emissions ~4% only | Per capita 2.9 tCO₂e vs global 6.6 | Development imperative | Carbon budget equity | Finance conditionality | Paris doesn’t mandate 2050 specifically
- LT-LEDS: Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy — submitted by India at COP27 Sharm 2022 — confirms Net Zero 2070
- INDC → NDC: INDC = Intended (before Paris entered force) | NDC = after Paris in force (Nov 4, 2016) | Same document, “Intended” dropped | Updated every 5 years with increased ambition
- European Green Deal: Launched Dec 2019 | EU Net Zero 2050 (EU Climate Law) | 66.25-72.5% cut by 2035 (COP30 NDC) | CBAM = Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (affects India’s steel/aluminium exports to EU)
- REDD+: Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (+ = conservation, sustainable management, enhancement) | 11% of global CO₂ = deforestation | 5 GtCO₂e/year potential | 1/4 of all reductions needed by 2030
- Warsaw Framework for REDD+ (COP19, 2013): Foundational framework | FREL/FRL (forest reference levels) | MRV system | Safeguards Information System | 3 phases: Readiness → Implementation → Results-Based Payments
- Paris Agreement Article 5: Explicitly recognises REDD+ and forests in climate mitigation
- GCF REDD+ 2024: GCF Board (October 2024) made REDD+ results-based payments a PERMANENT standing window — replacing pilot 2017-22
- UN-REDD: Joint FAO + UNDP + UNEP | 65 partner countries | largest international REDD+ provider | 2024 report: only 8/20 top deforestation countries have quantified forest targets in NDCs
- COP30 forests: Deforestation roadmap (90+ countries, COP30 Presidency) | Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) = $4 Bn/year, 74 countries, $125 Bn aspirational | Forests in preambular text only — no binding outcomes
- FCPF: Forest Carbon Partnership Facility = World Bank | 47 countries | Readiness Fund + Carbon Fund for REDD+ results-based payments
- BioCarbon Fund ISFL: World Bank | Landscape-level (agriculture + forests together) | Works in Ethiopia, Zambia, Colombia, Indonesia
- CCAC: Climate and Clean Air Coalition | Launched Feb 2012 | UNEP Secretariat Paris | Focus: Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) | Black Carbon (460-1,500× CO₂ over 20 yrs, days-weeks lifetime) | Methane (80× CO₂ over 20 yrs, 12 yr lifetime) | HFCs | Tropospheric ozone | India is member
- Global Methane Pledge (COP26 2021): 150+ countries, -30% methane by 2030 vs 2020. India did NOT join.
- GHG Protocol: WRI + WBCSD | Most widely used GHG accounting standard | Scope 1 (direct) + Scope 2 (purchased energy) + Scope 3 (value chain) | Used by companies, cities, countries globally
- GCCA+: EU-funded | Support for LDCs and SIDS on climate adaptation | Integrates climate into development plans
- LiFE: Lifestyle for Environment | PM Modi at COP26 Glasgow 2021 | Launched globally at UNGA Oct 2022 | Individual behaviour change | “Mindful utilisation” vs “Use and Dispose” | UPSC tested
- Arctic Council: 1996 | Ottawa Declaration | 8 members: Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, USA | 6 indigenous Permanent Participants | 13 observer countries including India | NOT a treaty-based body | Decisions by consensus | Post-Ukraine war: 7 countries suspended Russia meetings
- India Arctic timeline: 1920 (Svalbard Treaty) | 2007 (first expedition) | 2008 (Himadri station, Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard) | 2013 (Observer in Arctic Council) | 2014 (IndARC moored observatory) | 2022 (India Arctic Policy released) | March 2024 (India’s FIRST WINTER Arctic expedition) | 2025 (Arctic Circle India Forum, New Delhi)
- NCPOR: National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research | Goa HQ | Nodal agency for Arctic + Antarctic research | Coordinates Himadri station
- IndARC: India’s first Arctic underwater moored observatory | Kongsfjorden, Svalbard | 2014 | Studies ocean temperatures, currents, monsoon link | UPSC Prelims 2015 tested
🧪 Practice MCQs
Q1. With reference to REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation), which of the following are CORRECT?
1. The Warsaw Framework for REDD+ was adopted at COP19 in 2013.
2. The Paris Agreement Article 5 explicitly recognises REDD+.
3. In October 2024, the Green Climate Fund made REDD+ results-based payments a permanent standing funding window.
4. REDD+ has a mitigation potential of over 5 GtCO₂e per year — providing about one quarter of all reductions needed by 2030.
✅ Answer: (d) All four statements are correct
1 ✅: The Warsaw Framework for REDD+ was adopted at COP19 (Conference of Parties 19) in Warsaw, Poland in 2013. This is the foundational framework that provides methodological and financing guidance for REDD+ implementation, including requirements for national forest reference emission levels (FRELs), MRV (Measurement, Reporting, Verification) systems, and Safeguard Information Systems. 2 ✅: Paris Agreement Article 5 is titled “Forests” and explicitly encourages parties to take action to implement and support REDD+ activities. This was the first time a major climate treaty formally recognised REDD+ as a legitimate mitigation approach, integrating forest-based emission reductions into the broader Paris framework. 3 ✅: In October 2024, the GCF Board adopted a new policy establishing REDD+ results-based payments as a permanent standing funding window within the GCF — replacing the previous pilot programme that ran from 2017 to 2022. This is a significant institutional advancement that mainstreams REDD+ into the GCF’s regular financing. 4 ✅: According to UNEP and UNFCCC data, REDD+ has a mitigation potential of over 5 GtCO₂e per year through halting deforestation and degradation and through sustainable management. This could provide more than one-quarter of all the emission reductions the world needs to achieve in the next two decades — making it one of the single most cost-effective climate solutions available.
Q2. India completed its first-ever winter Arctic expedition in March 2024. Which of the following statements about India’s Arctic engagement is/are CORRECT?
1. India’s research station Himadri is located at Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, Norway.
2. India has had Observer status in the Arctic Council since 2013.
3. IndARC is India’s first Arctic underwater moored observatory deployed in Kongsfjorden.
4. India’s Arctic Policy 2022 was released by the Ministry of External Affairs.
✅ Answer: (c) — 1, 2 and 3 correct. Statement 4 is WRONG.
1 ✅: India’s Himadri research station is indeed located at Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard — a Norwegian archipelago in the High Arctic. Established in 2008, it was India’s first and remains India’s only permanent Arctic research station. Research personnel are typically present for about 180 days a year. The station conducts research in Arctic microbiology, atmospheric sciences, glaciology, and oceanography. Operated by NCPOR (National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Goa). 2 ✅: India received Observer status in the Arctic Council in 2013 — along with other Asian countries (China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore). India was re-elected as Observer in 2019. Observer status allows participation in meetings and submissions but not voting rights (only the 8 Arctic member states vote). 3 ✅: IndARC (India’s first multi-sensor moored observatory) was deployed in Kongsfjorden, Svalbard in 2014. It continuously monitors ocean temperatures, salinity, currents, and other parameters — helping Indian scientists understand the connection between Arctic ocean changes and the Indian monsoon system. It was tested in UPSC Prelims 2015: “The term ‘IndARC’ is the name of (a) India’s moored observatory in the Arctic.” 4 ❌ Wrong: India’s Arctic Policy 2022 was released by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) — not the Ministry of External Affairs. This makes sense because India’s Arctic engagement has been primarily scientific (atmospheric science, oceanography, climate research) rather than diplomatic. The policy is titled “India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development” and has six pillars including Science and Research, Climate and Environment Protection, Economic Development, Transportation and Connectivity, Governance, and National Capacity Building.
Q3. The Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) focuses on reducing “Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs).” Which of the following is NOT an SLCP targeted by CCAC?
✅ Answer: (c) — CO₂ is NOT an SLCP. It’s a Long-Lived Climate Pollutant (LLCP).
This question tests the crucial distinction between SLCPs and the main greenhouse gas CO₂. The key difference is atmospheric lifetime: Short-Lived Climate Pollutants have relatively short residence times in the atmosphere — days to about 12 years. Long-Lived Climate Pollutants (primarily CO₂) persist for centuries to millennia. (c) CO₂ is WRONG (not an SLCP): Carbon dioxide has an atmospheric lifetime of hundreds to thousands of years. Once emitted, CO₂ accumulates — even if we stopped all emissions today, current CO₂ concentrations would persist for centuries. This is why CO₂ is addressed by the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement as the central long-term climate challenge. (a) Black carbon ✅ SLCP: Atmospheric lifetime of just days to a few weeks. But its warming potential is 460-1,500× CO₂ over a 20-year period. Sources: diesel engines, cookstoves, crop burning. (b) Methane ✅ SLCP: Atmospheric lifetime of ~12 years. Warming potential 80× CO₂ over 20 years. Major sources: livestock (enteric fermentation), oil/gas leaks, landfills, rice paddies. The Global Methane Pledge (150+ countries, COP26) targeted 30% reduction by 2030. India did NOT join. (d) HFCs ✅ SLCP: Hydrofluorocarbons have lifetimes of decades (shorter than CO₂ centuries) and extremely high GWPs. Being phased down under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol. Why SLCPs matter: Reducing them provides near-term climate benefits (IPCC: could slow warming by 0.5°C by 2050) AND improves air quality (black carbon causes millions of deaths annually from air pollution).
📜 UPSC Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of:
(a) Pledges made by European countries to rehabilitate refugees from war-affected Middle East
(b) Plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change
(c) Capital contributed by member countries in the establishment of AIIB
(d) Plan of action outlined by the countries regarding Sustainable Development Goals
✅ Official Answer: (b) — Plan of action outlined by countries to combat climate change
INDCs (Intended Nationally Determined Contributions) were the climate pledges submitted by countries to UNFCCC ahead of COP21 Paris (December 2015). The word “Intended” reflected that these were pledges BEFORE the Paris Agreement entered into force — once it came into force in November 2016, INDCs automatically became NDCs (with “Intended” dropped). Under the Paris Agreement, all countries are required to submit NDCs (national climate plans) covering emission reduction targets, adaptation measures, and implementation means. The “contribution” aspect means each country self-determines its own level of ambition — unlike the Kyoto Protocol where targets were assigned top-down. India’s original INDC (October 2015) included: 33-35% emissions intensity reduction by 2030 (vs 2005), 40% non-fossil installed capacity by 2030, carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes. This was later updated in 2022 with enhanced targets (45% intensity, 50% non-fossil capacity, 500 GW) incorporating the Panchamrit goals. The term was prominently in news in 2015-2016 before and after COP21 Paris — making it a perfect 2016 PYQ target.
The term ‘IndARC’, sometimes seen in the news, is the name of:
(a) An indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian Defence
(b) India’s satellite to provide services to the countries of Indian Ocean Rim
(c) A scientific establishment set up by India in the Antarctic
(d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region
✅ Official Answer: (d) — India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region
IndARC is India’s first multi-sensor moored observatory deployed in the Arctic. Specifically: Located in Kongsfjorden (fjord), Svalbard, Norway. Deployed in 2014 by India. Operated by NCPOR (National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Goa). What it does: Continuously monitors ocean temperature, salinity, pressure, current velocity, and dissolved oxygen in the Arctic Ocean. It transmits data back to India for analysis. Why it matters: Scientists use IndARC data to understand how Arctic Ocean changes affect the Indian monsoon. As Arctic sea ice melts and Arctic Ocean warms, it changes the atmospheric pressure gradients that drive monsoon circulation — IndARC helps quantify this connection. Connection to Himadri: Himadri is India’s surface-level Arctic research station (established 2008, Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard). IndARC complements Himadri by providing underwater oceanographic data. Tricky options: Option (c) mentions Antarctica — India does have research stations in Antarctica (Maitri and Bharati), but IndARC is specifically in the Arctic, not Antarctic. Don’t confuse the two polar regions!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
India’s choice of 2070 is one of the most important and debated decisions in climate diplomacy. Here’s a balanced analysis: India’s arguments for 2070 (the principled case): (1) Cumulative emissions responsibility — India has contributed only ~4% of all CO₂ emitted since industrialisation, despite having 18% of the world’s population. The carbon budget was largely consumed by today’s rich countries during their industrial growth. (2) Per capita equity — India’s current per capita emissions (2.9 tCO₂e) are less than half the global average (6.6). On a per-capita basis, India has far more “right” to emit than countries that have already emitted their fair share. (3) Development imperative — India still has hundreds of millions in energy poverty who need electricity, cooking fuel, and transport. Net zero by 2050 would constrain this development. (4) Paris consistency — The Paris Agreement targets Net Zero “in the second half of the century” — 2070 is within this timeframe. (5) The “earlier is more expensive” problem — India’s energy system is still being built; requiring it to peak and decline emissions much sooner forces it to retire relatively new infrastructure prematurely. Counter-arguments (international pressure): (1) IPCC says global Net Zero by 2050 is needed for 1.5°C — if major emitters like India go to 2070, global warming will overshoot. (2) India is now the world’s 3rd largest total emitter — its trajectory matters enormously. (3) India’s renewable energy deployment is already ahead of schedule, suggesting 2060 might be achievable. (4) UNEP EGR 2025: India had the highest absolute increase in GHG emissions in 2024 — the trajectory is concerning even with low per-capita numbers. The balanced UPSC answer: India’s 2070 target is principled and consistent with CBDR-RC (Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities). However, India must ensure its near-term action (by 2030) is strong and delivered — as the IPCC and UNEP have noted, delayed action makes the eventual transition more costly and risky. India can achieve Net Zero faster with adequate climate finance from developed countries — which is India’s core demand.
Legacy IAS — UPSC Civil Services Coaching, Bangalore |
Sources: UNFCCC — India’s updated NDC August 2022 | CEEW — COP26 India Panchamrit analysis (December 2023); PIB — Net Zero 2070 commitment; NITI Aayog — 6 working groups for Net Zero roadmap (2024); European Commission — European Green Deal 2019, EU NDC for COP30 (December 2025); UNFCCC — REDD+ Warsaw Framework (COP19, 2013); UNEP — REDD+ page (February 2026); Wikipedia — REDD+ (February 2026); UN-REDD — 2024 Annual Report (May 2025); UN-REDD + UNEP — NDC forests report, June 2024 (only 8/20 top deforestation countries have quantified forest targets); UNFCCC — Forests in COP30 climate agenda (November 2025); Vajiram and Ravi — COP30 deforestation roadmap (December 2025); Mongabay — Year in Rainforests 2025 (December 2025); CCAC — Climate and Clean Air Coalition official; Drishti IAS — NITI Aayog Net Zero panel; The Arctic Institute — India in Arctic (January 2024); Arctic Council — India observer status 2013; Gokulam SEEK IAS — India’s Arctic Imperative (2024); IMPRI — India’s Arctic Policy and Geopolitics (November 2025); Atharva Examwise — Arctic Council India (May 2025); PIB — Winter Arctic Expedition India (February 2025).
