Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, has called upon the G20 nations to bridge the divide between climate action ambition and its actual implementation. Speaking at the G20 Environment Ministers’ Meeting in Cape Town, Yadav stressed the importance of respecting each nation’s unique contributions and enhancing their capacities to meet environmental challenges.
He reiterated the principle of ‘Common but differentiated responsibilities and Respective Capabilities,’ highlighting that financial commitments to developing countries for addressing environmental issues should be seen as a fundamental duty, not just a promise. “Equality is not a privilege – it is a right,” Yadav stated, as reported by the environment ministry.
The minister also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on integrating fundamental principles with future progress. This includes harnessing ecosystem-based solutions and advanced technologies to foster a sustainable future, with knowledge sharing, capacity building, and technology transfer playing crucial roles.
Advocating for a ‘whole-of-the-society’ approach, Yadav noted the significance of individual ‘pro-planet lifestyle choices’ in achieving meaningful climate outcomes. He expressed appreciation for the South African Presidency’s people-centric, holistic, and collaborative strategy.
The report also points out that G20 member states (excluding the African Union) were responsible for 77% of global emissions in 2023, with an increase noted from the previous year. The six largest emitters within the G20 contributed 63% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while least developed countries accounted for only 3%.