We are not a part of the problem, but we want to be a part of the solution, the minister said

Combating climate change is a shared global challenge, Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav has said.

"Our response must be based on the fundamental principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities," he said on Friday.

He was speaking at the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate (MEF) convened virtually by US President Joe Biden.

The minister noted that India’s share of world population is 17% but the country’s share in cumulative historical emissions is just 4%. Even the current annual emissions are only 5.2% of the global emissions and the per capita emissions are about a third of the global average, he added.

“It is clear that we are not a part of the problem, but we want to be a part of the solution to the climate crisis.” emphasised the Minister.

Referring to India’s ambitious goals under the Paris Agreement, Yadav highlighted the target of 450 GW of Renewable Energy by 2030.

In this context, he pointed out that India’s solar capacity, drawing on the collaborative spirit of member countries through the International Solar Alliance, has increased fifteen times in the last six years.

Speaking at the meeting, the minister also echoed global sentiments for collective intent and concrete actions in tackling climate change.

“The world needs rapid, sustained, and deep emission cuts in this decade rather than distant targets” said Yadav, underscoring collaborative and cohesive global efforts to keep the Paris Agreement temperature goal within reach.

According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the virtual meeting built on the Leaders’ Summit on Climate conducted in April 202.

It was aimed at enabling dialogue and discussion and building consensus before COP26, which will set a precedent for climate efforts in the years to come.