The energy sector’s dominance in India’s emissions profile is consistent with its role as the backbone of the nation’s development. However, India has made substantial progress in diversifying its energy mix with the rapid growth of solar and wind energy, coupled with the expansion of large hydropower and other renewables.

India has submitted its 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), according to a release by the Press Information Bureau. The report, submitted on December 30, 2024, outlines India’s greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory for 2020 and details the nation’s strides in sustainable development, mitigation efforts, and contributions to global climate action. The report claims that the greenhouse gas emissions have declined despite global challenges.

One of the standout achievements highlighted in the BUR-4 is the reduction in India’s total GHG emissions. In 2020, India’s emissions, excluding Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF), amounted to 2,959 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2e). Including the LULUCF sector, net emissions stood at 2,437 million tonnes of CO2e. This marks a significant 7.93 per cent decrease compared to 2019, a feat accomplished despite the global economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The energy sector remained the largest contributor to GHG emissions, accounting for 75.66 per cent of the total, followed by agriculture (13.72 per cent), Industrial Processes and Product Use (8.06 per cent ), and waste (2.56 per cent). However, India’s forest and tree cover played a pivotal role in offsetting emissions, sequestering approximately 522 million tonnes of CO2 – equivalent to 22 per cent  of the country’s total carbon dioxide emissions in 2020.

Progress Towards Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)

India’s BUR-4 underscores the country’s substantial progress in meeting its NDC targets under the Paris Agreement. Notable achievements include:

• Decoupling Economic Growth from Emissions: Between 2005 and 2020, India reduced the emission intensity of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 36 per cent, exceeding its voluntary target of a 33-35 per cent reduction by 2030.
• Expanding Non-Fossil Energy Sources: As of October 2024, non-fossil sources constituted 46.52 per cent of India’s installed electricity generation capacity. The total installed capacity of renewable power, including large hydropower projects, reached 203.22 GW. Since 2014, renewable power capacity, excluding large hydropower, has grown 4.5 times to 156.25 GW.
• Enhancing Carbon Sinks: From 2005 to 2021, India’s forest and tree cover added an additional carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent. Currently, forest and tree cover account for 25.17 per cent of the country’s geographical area.

A Balanced Approach to Climate and Development

Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, lauded the report’s findings in a social media post, emphasizing that India is “leading by example in sustainable growth.” He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for aligning economic progress with meaningful climate action.

India’s approach reflects its adherence to the principles of equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), as outlined in the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement. Despite its relatively low contribution to global emissions historically and presently, India continues to take proactive measures to address climate change while pursuing its developmental aspirations.

Challenges and Support Needs

The BUR-4 also highlights the challenges India faces in scaling up its climate action. Constraints related to finance, technology, and capacity-building remain significant. Addressing these gaps will require enhanced international cooperation, especially as India transitions to a low-carbon economy and aims to meet its ambitious climate targets.

The report calls for greater access to climate finance and technology transfer to support mitigation and adaptation initiatives. It also underscores the need for capacity-building programs to equip stakeholders across sectors with the skills and knowledge necessary for sustainable development.

Sectoral Insights

Energy Sector

The energy sector’s dominance in India’s emissions profile is consistent with its role as the backbone of the nation’s development. However, India has made substantial progress in diversifying its energy mix. The rapid growth of solar and wind energy, coupled with the expansion of large hydropower and other renewables, has reduced the sector’s carbon footprint.

Agriculture

Agriculture, which accounts for 13.72 per cent of emissions, remains a critical area for mitigation efforts. Initiatives promoting sustainable farming practices, efficient water management, and the adoption of climate-resilient crops are being scaled up to reduce emissions while ensuring food security.

Forest and Land Use

India’s commitment to enhancing its carbon sinks is evident in its growing forest and tree cover. Programs like the National Afforestation Programme and Green India Mission are pivotal in this regard, contributing significantly to carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation.

Waste Management

Although the waste sector’s contribution to emissions is relatively small (2.56 per cent), it presents significant opportunities for improvement. Enhanced waste segregation, recycling, and the adoption of waste-to-energy technologies are key strategies for reducing emissions from this sector.

International Recognition

India’s efforts have garnered international recognition, with the country being hailed as a leader in renewable energy deployment and climate action. Its achievements in reducing emission intensity and expanding renewable energy capacity are seen as exemplary for other developing nations.

The ministry said that India’s 4th Biennial Update Report to the UNFCCC showcases the nation’s unwavering commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. The substantial progress in reducing emissions, enhancing carbon sinks, and advancing renewable energy underscores India’s role as a key player in global climate action. However, the report also highlights the need for sustained international support to overcome challenges and achieve long-term sustainability goals.

As the world grapples with the urgent need to combat climate change, India’s BUR-4 serves as a testament to the power of proactive, inclusive, and equitable climate policies. With continued efforts and global cooperation, India is poised to lead the way toward a more sustainable and resilient future.