COP 28: Shaping the Future of Environmental Policy

30/11/23

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COP28 UN Climate Conference

The 28th annual Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is a beacon of hope for the future of environmental policy, not just globally, but specifically in India. This conference is a platform where nations come together to discuss and implement strategies to combat climate change.

The Role of COP28 in Establishing Environmental Policy

COP28 plays a pivotal role in shaping environmental policies for countries. For India, a country with diverse ecosystems and a population of over a billion, the decisions made at COP28 hold significant implications. The conference provides a platform for India to voice its concerns, learn from global best practices, and contribute to the fight against climate change. It also offers an opportunity for India to showcase its initiatives, such as the ambitious target of achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.

The discussions at COP28 will influence India’s environmental policies in several ways. First, they will guide the enhancement of India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which are the heart of the Paris Agreement and the achievement of its long-term goals. Second, they will aid in the formulation of strategies to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change, considering India’s vulnerability to extreme weather events. Third, they will assist in mobilising finance for climate action, a critical aspect for a developing country like India.

Impact of Climate Change on Children

Children are the future of our planet, and their welfare must be at the forefront of climate action. Climate change is not just an environmental issue, but a child rights issue as well. The decisions we make today will determine the world our children inherit. Therefore, policies and actions must consider the direct and indirect impacts of climate change on children. This includes ensuring access to clean air and water, nutritious food, and a safe environment. It also means investing in education to equip children with the knowledge and skills to navigate a changing world. After all, every child deserves a healthy planet. Therefore, the decisions made at COP28 will directly impact the well-being of children in India.

The role of youth in climate action

Climate action should not be seen as limited to the ambit of policymaking and deliberation at bilateral and multilateral forums like COP28; it is the responsibility of every citizen. India’s youth, in particular, play a vital role in climate action by bringing fresh perspectives and unwavering enthusiasm to the table. They volunteer their time, knowledge, and energy to create positive change in their communities. Through peaceful activism and raising awareness, they inspire others to take eco-friendly steps, fostering hope for a greener future. Their collaborative efforts, rooted in optimism and a desire to give back to the planet, demonstrate the power of collective action in addressing environmental challenges.

Role of NGOs in Upholding Environmentalism

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) play a crucial role in promoting and upholding environmentalism. In India, NGOs act as a bridge between the government and the people, ensuring that environmental policies are implemented effectively at the grassroots level. They raise awareness about climate change, promote sustainable practices, and empower communities to adapt to the changing climate.

At COP28, NGOs from India can collaborate with global partners and stakeholders to exchange knowledge and resources. They can bring local issues to the global stage and learn from the experiences of NGOs in other countries. This collaboration will strengthen their capacity to drive environmental action in India.

COP28 will shape the future of environmental policy in India. It will guide the country’s climate actions, impact the lives of children, and influence the work of NGOs. As we look forward to a future where sustainability is the norm, COP28 is a step in the right direction. It brings hope and inspiration, reminding us that every action counts in the fight against climate change.

Bal Raksha Bharat (also known as Save the Children), a leading NGO, works tirelessly to protect children and safeguard their rights amidst the climate crisis and other emergencies. They have partnered with the government and other organisations to not just respond to the immediate needs of children in emergencies but also work towards building a resilient future. They are empowering children and communities to adapt to climate change, ensuring that every child has a chance to survive.

Bal Raksha Bharat prioritises Resilience and Climate Change Adaptation in its mission to address the recurring climate and disaster risks that affect marginalised children, families, and communities, with a special focus on empowering women and girls. Their approach centres around enhancing community knowledge and capabilities, involving children and community members in climate and disaster risk awareness, and equipping them with resilience-building skills. 

This is achieved through various initiatives, including promoting Nature-Based Solutions to conserve community assets, collaborating with local governance bodies to create child-centred and gender-inclusive climate adaptation plans, partnering with schools for participatory environment conservation, providing livelihood support to vulnerable families exposed to climate and disaster risks, and leveraging technology for early warning systems, green energy, and sustainable job opportunities. Bal Raksha Bharat’s holistic strategy fosters not only resilience but also empowerment, as it engages communities, particularly women and girls, in proactive climate action, encouraging sustainable practices that benefit both people and the environment. Through these initiatives, they work towards creating a more resilient and environmentally conscious society.

Soumi Halder

Manager-Program Campaign and Communication, Programme Support

“With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the social development sector, I am passionate about championing child rights and community empowerment through innovative communication strategies. I am Manager for Programme Campaigns and Communication with Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children)."