India's booming economy in 2023 saw emissions rise, fuelled by growth and hampered by a weak monsoon that pushed reliance on fossil fuels and dampened clean energy generation
The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that solid GDP growth in the country translated to a significant increase in energy-related carbon emissions, rising by 190 million tonnes. However, the report highlights that India's per capita emissions remain much lower than the global average.
Globally, energy-related carbon emissions reached a record high in 2023, climbing 1.1 percent from the previous year. China led the pack with the largest absolute increase, reflecting its continued reliance on carbon-intensive industries.
Interestingly, China also topped the charts for new clean energy installations, showcasing a complex interplay between economic growth, environmental concerns, and the ongoing energy transition.
India's emission story in 2023 had two key players: robust economic activity and a disappointing monsoon season. Strong GDP growth naturally led to increased energy demands, while the weak monsoon hampered hydropower generation.
This dependence on alternative sources, often fossil fuel-based, contributed to a significant portion of the rise in emissions.
The report underlines the urgency of climate action. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), countries must collectively cut greenhouse gas emissions by 43 percent by 2030 to keep global warming within 1.5 degrees Celsius. This highlights the need for India and other nations to find a sustainable path for economic growth that prioritises clean energy solutions and mitigates environmental impacts.