Developing countries are not responsible for climate change, but bear the brunt: Bhupender Yadav

Developed countries are “historically responsible” for the current climate situation and developing countries, especially island nations, are only bearing the burden, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said on Thursday.

Speaking at the ‘Voice of the Global South Summit’ environment ministers’ session, Yadav reiterated India’s position to represent developing countries on issues related to climate change targets.

He also announced that under India’s G20 presidency, the environment and climate sustainability track has themes like “circular economy, blue economy and reclaiming degraded land”.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the two-day summit on Thursday.

“For many developing countries that have contributed little to climate change, the severe impacts of climate change loom large on their existence,” Yadav said, adding that India understands the “particular vulnerability” of developing and small island developing states.

“Urgent global climate action is, indeed, the need of the hour,” the minister said.

“It should be guided by the principles of climate justice, including equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capacities (CBDR-RC). Developed countries have already consumed their share of climate resources, and it is time for them to take responsibility for their past actions.”

“India has raised the voice of developing countries in all international fora, including the 27th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC and the 15th session of the Conference of the Parties to the CBD. India has on various occasions reminded developed countries of their binding duty to provide financial and technical support to developing countries to combat the impacts of climate change.
Change,” he added.

The minister pointed out that the IPCC report (AR6-II) mentioned that lack of financial and technical resources, capacity building and other barriers lead to losses and damages. “The report also notes that vulnerability is exacerbated by underdevelopment, social and economic inequalities,” Yadav said.

COP 27, recently held in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, adopted a key decision on financial arrangements for responding to loss and damage associated with the adverse effects of climate change, and countries agreed to establish a new financial arrangement.