Top Global leaders are in New York to attend the United Nations Climate Action Summit 2019 which begins today. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has asked the participating countries to come with concrete and realistic plans, to enhance their nationally determined contributions by 2020, in line with reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 45 per cent over the next decade, and to net zero emissions by 2050.

UN Secretary-General urges leaders to reach carbon neutrality by 2050

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India is not only planning to lower its emission but also aiming to reach the goal of zero-emission before the set deadline. India, Sweden, and the World Economic Forum are a part of Industry Transition Track – an initiative that aims to get net-zero emissions by 2050. India expects the heavy industry and transport sectors like aviation, cement, steel, aluminium, shipping, and many more sectors to achieve the set emission target by supporting each other through effective measures like technology transfer.

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As India Co-Leads the ITT (Industry Transition Track), here is what is planned with its partners to offer at the United Nations Climate Summit:

Aluminium for better climate:

While Aluminium is one of the most used metals in the world, the pollution from its production remains is a huge challenge. A steep rise in Aluminium price has not deterred its demand hence new technology is required to accommodate its use with minimum damage. India with its partners will focus on how the Aluminium industry can become a positive contributor to a net-Zero economy by creating mechanisms for low carbon Aluminium.

Steel for better climate:

Steel with its huge demand across the globe remains a challenge for climate change as its production results in an increase in pollutants. Carbon monoxide and nitrogen are released during the various stages of its products, which have a significant impact on the environment. During the session, India with its partners will demonstrate how steel can play a key role in a net-zero emissions economy and increase industry consensus by taking the steps needed for the industry to reach net-zero emissions. We also plan to present a unified front while engaging policymakers on what is needed in creating mechanisms to meet and create markets and demand for low-CO2 steel.

An Environment for all:

India is committed to protecting its rich environment and making efforts towards fulfilling its Nationally determined contributions before the date set. India is working on viable options for a sustainable low carbon development plan. During the session, we will highlight how countries could secure basic amenities to their citizens without damaging the Ecosystem. Besides, preservation and enhancement of Ecosystems could be worked on while providing food, water, and electricity.

India has also contributed USD 1 million to install solar panels at the UN office in New York. India has gifted one solar panel for each of the 193 countries advocating the use of solar energy. The Solar Panels that have been installed on the roof of the United Nations headquarters will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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