INDIA NEWS
Dec 16-31, 2023 - Vol 4, Issue 10
From the editor’s desk
COP28: Navigating challenges for a sustainable future it involves transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, implementing energy efficiency measures, and adopting policies to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions.
Strengthening ties: A closer look at the evolving Australia-India relations Australia and India, two nations geographically distant but connected by shared values and economic interests, have been fostering bilateral relations with a renewed vigor. The recent address by Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green sheds light on the evolving dynamics, particularly in the economic sphere, and the pursuit of a “high-quality” Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA). At the heart of the current discourse is the pursuit of CECA that is not merely a formality but a substantial agreement that broadens economic collaboration. The emphasis on “high quality” reflects the commitment to crafting a deal that goes beyond conventional trade agreements. Green’s remarks underscore the dedication of both nations to ensure that the CECA genuinely serves the interests of their bilateral relations. The Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) signed in April last year and enacted in December 2022, has laid the groundwork for economic collaboration across various sectors. Green highlighted the positive impact of the ECTA on industries like horticulture, wine, and dairy, showcasing the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships. The envoy’s recognition of the elimination of tariffs on critical mineral inputs indicates a forward-looking approach to fostering innovation and sustainability in both economies. The collaboration between Australia and India in the area of clean energy signifies a shared commitment to addressing global challenges. Green’s assertion that “there can be no affordable, scalable renewable solutions without India” emphasizes the interconnectedness of their efforts. The desire for Indian batteries made with Australian lithium and Indian solar panels with Australian silicon not only aligns with economic interests but also underscores the importance of joint initiatives in the face of climate change. Green’s repeated emphasis on the opportunities for further economic and trade engagement reinforces the belief that the potential for collaboration is far from exhausted. The vision of Indian green steel with Australian green iron and the call for joint efforts to meet India’s domestic production goals underscore the aspirational nature of the partnership. Both nations stand to gain by leveraging each other’s strengths and resources in a manner that fosters
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sustainable development. Bilateral relations are not without challenges, and Green openly acknowledged Australia’s “anxieties” over US allegations of an Indian link to a failed assassination plot and Canada’s charges related to the killing of a Sikh separatist. However, his assurance that such matters are discussed “sensitively and carefully behind closed doors” demonstrates a diplomatic maturity. The distinction between Australia’s engagement with India and its role in the Five Eyes alliance further emphasizes the unique and respectful nature of their relationship. When questioned about applying the same standard of friendship to India as to the US, Green provided insights into the foundational nature of the Australia-US relationship, particularly in terms of security. Despite acknowledging the stability of the US-Australia relations, he expressed optimism about the rapidly evolving Australia-India relationship, emphasizing its dynamism and the numerous opportunities for collaboration. The collaborative research efforts between Australia and India to decarbonize the steel sector reflect a commitment to addressing global environmental challenges. The envoy’s acknowledgment of India’s serious targets and joint initiatives to make steel more efficient and less carbonintensive demonstrates a shared responsibility in shaping sustainable industries. This collaborative approach not only benefits both nations but contributes to global efforts in mitigating climate change. The mention of Australia’s concerns over security-related allegations against India highlights the complexities inherent in bilateral relations. Green’s reassurance that Australia engages with India as a friend, separate from intelligencesharing alliances, reflects a diplomatic finesse in managing differences and sensitive issues. Additionally, his acknowledgment of attacks on Hindu temples in Australia underscores the importance of addressing religious tensions and ensuring the safety of diverse communities within each nation. Australia and India are navigating the complexities of bilateral relations with a commitment to mutual respect, shared values, and economic collaboration. While challenges exist, the diplomatic maturity displayed in addressing “anxieties” and managing sensitive issues behind closed doors underscores the depth and resilience of the relationship.
EDITORIAL
Rabindra Mukherji As the curtains fall on COP28, the climate summit in Dubai, the world witnesses a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against climate change. Australian Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen took centre stage, boldly asserting the imperative of globally phasing out fossil fuels, positioning Australia as a contender in the race to lead the renewable energy revolution. In the unfolding drama of diplomatic intricacies, Bowen’s direct call-out of Saudi Arabia adds a layer of geopolitical tension to the already charged atmosphere. The urgency of addressing fossil fuels to cap global heating at 1.5 degree Celsius echoes throughout Bowen’s address, urging a comprehensive agreement aligned with this ambitious goal. Bowen, representing a major fossil fuel exporter, underscored the imperative for fossil fuels to play no ongoing role in global energy systems. He urged a transition to renewable energy, aligning Australia’s economic future with the goal of becoming a renewable energy superpower. Bowen’s call was grounded in the findings of a global stocktake, revealing the world falling short of the 1.5 degree Celsius heating goal, necessitating emissions reduction targets and a tripling of renewable energy by 2030. The minister proposed flexible language at the talks, suggesting that decisions on phasing out fossil fuels could include attaching the term “unabated”. However, this term stirred controversy, as it is often associated with allowing fossil fuel use with emissions reduction through carbon capture and storage, a technology facing skepticism for its commercial viability. As the diplomatic theatre unfolded, Diego Pacheco, chief spokesperson for the Like Minded Group, accused certain countries of hypocrisy for supporting fossil fuel phase-out while planning to expand their own production. Ongoing differences between wealthy nations and emerging economies further complicated negotiations. It is pertinent to be conscientious of how burning fossil fuels contributes to climate change. Burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, significantly contributes to climate change through the release of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. The primary greenhouse gas emitted during the combustion of fossil fuels is carbon dioxide,
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although other gasses like methane and nitrous oxide are also released. More specifically stated, the combustion process releases carbon dioxide, a major contributor to the greenhouse effect. Increased carbon dioxide levels enhance the natural greenhouse effect, trapping more heat in the earth’s atmosphere. While less prevalent than carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are more potent greenhouse gasses. Methane, in particular, has a higher heattrapping capacity over shorter periods. Fossil fuel extraction, processing, and leaks contribute to methane emissions. The accumulation of greenhouse gasses results in a thick layer that traps outgoing infrared radiation, leading to an overall warming of the earth’s surface. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as global warming. This warming contributes to various climate-related changes, including more frequent and intense heat waves. The warming accelerates the melting of glaciers and ice caps, contributing to rising sea levels. This poses a threat to coastal areas, leading to increased flooding and erosion. The warming atmosphere influences weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe extreme weather events. This includes hurricanes, droughts, floods, and wildfires. The carbon dioxide absorption by the world’s oceans leads to ocean acidification. This can have detrimental effects on marine ecosystems, particularly on organisms with calcium carbonate shells and skeletons, such as corals and certain shellfish. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can disrupt ecosystems, affecting plant and animal species. Some may struggle to adapt, leading to shifts in biodiversity and potential species extinctions. Climate change triggers feedback loops that amplify the warming effect. For example, melting Arctic ice reduces the earth’s surface reflectively, leading to more absorption of sunlight and further warming. Besides, climate change can exacerbate existing social and economic challenges, particularly in vulnerable communities. This includes impacts on agriculture, water resources, and the overall stability of ecosystems that support human societies. Therefore, addressing the impact of burning fossil fuels on climate change assumes significance and
In this context, summits like COP28 assume significance. The world is facing many challenges such as terrorism, poverty, economic recession, political instabilities, climate change and others. Among these challenges, climate change comes to the fore, given the urgency with which it needs to be tackled collectively. Despite the challenges, COP28 concluded with a compromise text supporting a historic “transition away from fossil fuels.” However, the inclusion of controversial abatement technologies, such as carbon capture and storage, sparked debate. The agreement emphasized the tripled capacity of renewable energy, doubled energy efficiency, and the launch of a “loss and damage” fund to aid climate-vulnerable nations. The unexpected conclusion brought both praise and criticism. While some hailed it as a significant step towards a cleaner future, others, including climate scientist Bill Hare, criticized the compromise for failing to put the world on a path to limiting warming to 1.5 degrees. The Association of Small Island States raised objections to loopholes favouring fossil fuel use, reflecting the complexity of the negotiations. Bowen, speaking on behalf of the Umbrella Group of countries, acknowledged that the consensus fell short of some countries’ expectations but emphasized the signal it sent- a recognition that the future lies in clean energy. The COP president declared the “UAE consensus” endorsed without objection, marking a historic shift in addressing fossil fuels directly. The important point is, COP28 concluded with a global compromise, navigating challenges to set the world on a path towards renewable energy. While not without controversies, the agreement signals a collective recognition of the need to transition away from fossil fuels for a sustainable and equitable future. The COP28 summit showcased the delicate balancing act required to navigate global climate discord. Bowen’s outspoken stance reflects Australia’s commitment to renewable energy but also underscores the challenging diplomacy involved in steering discussions towards meaningful agreements. The compromise text, while a step forward, leaves room for ongoing debates, emphasizing the ongoing complexity of addressing the global climate crisis. The unexpected conclusion hints at both the urgency and intricacy of international efforts to secure a sustainable future.
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