Hindu Editorial Analysis : 25-April-2024

Climate change is a pressing issue affecting millions around the world. Recent findings by the European Court of Human Rights indicate that Switzerland’s efforts to reduce emissions have been insufficient, particularly for vulnerable populations like women. This essay explores the global status of climate change, its effects on human rights, and how India is addressing these challenges.

Global Status of Climate Change

According to the latest State of the Global Climate Report by the World Meteorological Organization:

  • Record Heat: 2023 has been marked as the hottest year on record.
  • Ocean and Ice Changes: Significant increases in ocean heat, sea level rise, and loss of Antarctic sea ice have been observed.
  • Health Impacts: Environmental degradation poses serious threats to public health, leading to:
    • Water shortages
    • Soil erosion
    • Food insecurity
    • Air pollution, which causes around seven million premature deaths each year.

Vulnerable Populations at Risk

Certain groups are particularly affected by climate change:

  • Women and Girls: They face heightened risks due to existing gender inequalities.
  • Children: They suffer more from food and water shortages and health issues.
  • Indigenous Peoples: Often endangered while defending their lands, they face serious threats to their survival.

India’s Response to Climate Change

India, as one of the fastest-growing economies, is making strides in combating climate change. The country has achieved significant targets in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs):

  • Emissions Reduction: India has reduced the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33% to 35% from 2005 levels.
  • Renewable Energy: The nation has achieved 40% of its electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources ahead of its 2030 target.
Challenges Faced

Despite these achievements, India faces serious climate-related challenges:

  • Over 80% of its population lives in areas vulnerable to climate-induced disasters.
  • Rising temperatures and natural disasters threaten livelihoods, food security, and worsen socio-economic inequalities.

Innovative Approaches in India

India has developed innovative models to tackle climate change:

  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Local-level planning has integrated the SDGs through multi-tiered processes, encouraging states to create their own road maps and fostering competition to drive innovation.
  • One Health Initiative: This program unites various government ministries to address health and environmental issues collectively.

Legal Framework

The Supreme Court of India has recognized the right to be free from climate change’s adverse impacts, referring to Articles 14 and 21 of the Indian Constitution. This acknowledgment:

  • Promotes a rights-based approach to climate action.
  • Encourages collaboration among government, businesses, and civil society.

Cultural Perspective

Every year, April 22 is celebrated as International Mother Earth Day in India, reflecting a long-standing cultural respect for nature. In 2022, the Madras High Court declared “Mother Nature” a living being, granting it legal rights to foster conservation efforts.

Why In News

The European Court of Human Rights found that Switzerland’s actions to curb emissions were inadequate and had failed to protect women against the impacts of climate change, highlighting the urgent need for stronger policies that specifically address the vulnerabilities faced by marginalized groups in the face of environmental challenges.

MCQs about The Impact of Climate Change on Human Rights

  1. What recent finding did the European Court of Human Rights make regarding Switzerland’s climate actions?
    A. They successfully reduced emissions significantly.
    B. They were adequate in protecting vulnerable populations.
    C. They were inadequate and failed to protect women from climate change impacts.
    D. They were among the best practices globally.
    Correct Answer: C. They were inadequate and failed to protect women from climate change impacts.
    Explanation: The Court found that Switzerland’s efforts to curb emissions were inadequate and did not protect women against the impacts of climate change.
  2. According to the State of the Global Climate Report, which of the following was confirmed about the year 2023?
    A. It experienced the lowest recorded temperatures.
    B. It was the hottest year on record.
    C. It had no significant changes in climate indicators.
    D. It saw a decrease in ocean heat levels.
    Correct Answer: B. It was the hottest year on record.
    Explanation: The report confirmed that 2023 was the hottest year since global temperature recording began, indicating alarming trends in climate change.
  3. What major initiative in India encourages local-level planning for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?
    A. The National Health Mission
    B. The One Health Initiative
    C. The Localisation Model for SDGs
    D. The Green India Mission
    Correct Answer: C. The Localisation Model for SDGs.
    Explanation: India’s localisation model for the SDGs integrates these goals into local-level planning, promoting ownership and innovation among states and territories.
  4. How has the Supreme Court of India contributed to climate action?
    A. By reducing emissions by 33%
    B. By declaring the right to be free from climate change impacts as a constitutional right
    C. By banning fossil fuels entirely
    D. By promoting renewable energy exclusively
    Correct Answer: B. By declaring the right to be free from climate change impacts as a constitutional right.
    Explanation: The Supreme Court recognized that people have the right to be free from the adverse impacts of climate change, invoking Articles 14 and 21 of the Indian Constitution.

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