New Environmental Policies Rolled Out Nationwide – 400-Word Description
New Environmental Policies Rolled Out Nationwide – 400-Word Description
In 2024, India introduced a comprehensive suite of environmental policies aimed at addressing climate change, enhancing sustainability, and promoting ecological balance. These initiatives reflect the government's commitment to environmental stewardship and align with global efforts to combat environmental degradation.
1. Strengthening Legal Frameworks:
The Supreme Court of India recognized the right to a clean and stable environment as integral to the fundamental rights to equality and life under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution.
2. Updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs):
India updated its NDC targets, committing to a 45% reduction in emission intensity and achieving 50% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030.
3. Introduction of the Green Credit Programme:
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the Green Credit Programme, incentivizing voluntary environmental actions across sectors, including tree plantation, sustainable agriculture, and waste management.
4. Ecomark Rules, 2024:
The Ecomark Rules were notified to grant eco-labels to products meeting specified environmental criteria, promoting sustainable consumer choices.
5. Biological Diversity Rules, 2024:
New rules were implemented to strengthen the monitoring and regulation of biological resources and associated knowledge, ensuring conservation and sustainable use.
6. Enhanced Pollution Control Measures:
The government introduced new rules to streamline the adjudication of air and water pollution cases, aiming for more efficient environmental governance.
7. Carbon Market Development:
India is developing a national carbon market to trade carbon credits, encouraging industries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and invest in cleaner technologies.
8. Green Steel Classification:
A classification system for 'green steel' was introduced, categorizing steel based on carbon emissions per metric tonne, promoting cleaner production methods.
9. E-Waste Management Policy:
A new e-waste policy mandates producers to pay a minimum price to recyclers for environmentally sound disposal, aiming to formalize the e-waste sector and reduce environmental hazards.
10. Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) Initiative:
The 'LiFE' movement encourages sustainable lifestyles, focusing on reducing carbon footprints through individual and collective actions.
These policies collectively represent India's proactive approach to environmental conservation, balancing economic growth with ecological responsibility.