Climate Crisis, Human Suffering, and Hope: A Global Perspective | S N Tripathy

In a world where hunger, drought, and gender-related conflicts intertwine, the narrative of despair becomes palpable, especially for the vulnerable, our children. As unsustainable changes in land and sea wreak havoc on nature and biodiversity, the urgency to address these interconnected challenges cannot be overstated. Discussing climate without acknowledging the pain in the world would be a disservice, for these challenges reflect our failings and strengths, shaping our response to the unfolding climate crisis. In these complex times, the conventional sequential human approach to problem-solving falters, demanding a more nuanced and interconnected strategy.

For those working in the climate space, the awareness of how climate risks exacerbate existing crises is acute. The host of the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or Conference of the Parties (COP28), convened from 30 November to 12 December 2023 in the UAE (United Arab Emirates).

COP28 UAE will provide a milestone opportunity for the world to come together, correct course, and drive progress to keep 1.5C within reach so we can meet the goals and ambitions of the Paris Agreement. As COP28 strives to be the most inclusive ever, focusing on frontline communities, it is imperative to recognize the complexity of the human experience. Climate vulnerability is not solely a result of extreme weather. Still, it becomes deeply entrenched when woven with socio-economic and political discrimination, a stark reality in developing and least-developed countries. Understanding this complexity is crucial; acknowledging that climate change is just one of several community risks’ is essential. There needs to be more than the solution to climate change to ensure progress; a holistic approach is needed. This nuance is challenging but vital as we amplify stories of survival and loss from nations like India, integrating the voices and needs of frontline communities into global climate conversations.

During these challenges, the first-ever Global Stocktake concludes this year, allowing countries to assess progress towards meeting the Paris Agreement and course-correct for meaningful acceleration. Simultaneously, the inaugural climate health ministerial seeks to set out a roadmap to address the impacts of climate change on healthcare systems. The recently instituted Loss and Damage Fund, hosted by the World Bank, takes centre stage as countries deliberate critical operational considerations and a draft proposal, determining how to structure and regulate the fund and who benefits.

A pivotal moment arrives as countries are expected to finalize and adopt a framework for the Global Goal on Adaptation under the Paris Agreement. This framework aims to reduce climate vulnerabilities through measurable targets, guidelines for adaptation action, and the necessary financial support.
As the global community grapples with the urgency of these tasks, a glimmer of hope emerges in the form of innovative solutions.

One such solution gaining traction is agrivoltaics, a concept where solar panels are strategically positioned on agricultural lands. This allows the capture of sunlight for electricity production while enabling farming and other activities to continue beneath and around them. In India, where the challenge of balancing land-water-energy-food security is pressing, agrivoltaics emerges as a significant renewable energy pathway. With India committing to net zero by 2070 and aiming for 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030, experts suggest that nearly 20% of this target can be achieved through agrivoltaics.

Agrivoltaics Alliance (IAA). This alliance brings together diverse stakeholders, including industry associations, farmer groups, producer organizations, research institutes, financial institutions, policy think tanks and civil society organizations. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, the IAA strives to drive the adoption of agrivoltaics as a sustainable and practical solution to India’s energy and agricultural challenges.

As COP28 unfolds, the world watches with anticipation, not only for policy decisions but for the commitment to a comprehensive and inclusive approach that addresses the intricate tapestry of challenges humanity faces. The interconnected nature of climate change, social issues, and economic disparities demands a collective and integrated response. Through such collaborative efforts, we can weave a tale of survival, resilience, and progress for all.

Recognizing the potential of agrivoltaics, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has partnered with the National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI) to establish the Indian Agrivoltaics Alliance (IAA). This alliance brings together diverse stakeholders, including industry associations, farmer groups, producer organizations, research institutes, financial institutions, policy think tanks and civil society organizations. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, the IAA strives to drive the adoption of agrivoltaics as a sustainable and practical solution to India’s energy and agricultural challenges. The global collaboration platform proposed here aims to build upon the successful model of the Agrivoltaics Alliance. This platform would facilitate a collaborative network where countries facing similar challenges related to climate change and socio-economic issues can share insights, resources, and best practices. The goal is to extend the inclusive approach of COP28, fostering international cooperation and collective problem-solving.

Climate education initiatives are deemed essential, mainly focusing on vulnerable communities. The suggestion is to empower local populations with knowledge about climate change and its interconnected impacts. This includes initiatives like agrivoltaics. The proposal involves working with educational institutions, NGOs, and community leaders to implement comprehensive climate education initiatives, ensuring people understand the broader context of climate vulnerabilities.

The establishment of community-driven innovation hubs in developing countries is recommended. These hubs would serve as centres for brainstorming, testing, and implementing locally relevant solutions that integrate renewable energy, agriculture, and climate resilience. Involving local communities, farmers, and entrepreneurs in the design and implementation of projects is emphasized to foster a sense of ownership and sustainability.

There is a call to create a global initiative for building climate-resilient healthcare systems to mitigate climate-related health challenges. This involves investing in research and technology to ensure healthcare infrastructure can withstand the impacts of climate change collaborating with international health organizations, governments, and NGOs for implementation, especially in regions prone to climate-related health challenges.

Engaging the youth in finding innovative solutions to climate challenges through a global youth-driven innovation challenge is considered imperative. The proposal encourages students and young professionals to develop projects addressing the interconnected issues of climate change, food security, and social inequality, aiming to recognize and support the most promising projects to foster a new generation of problem solvers and climate leaders.

Circular economy initiatives are urgently required to promote sustainable consumption and production. The proposal suggests encouraging countries to adopt policies that reduce waste, promote recycling, and minimize environmental impact. Collaboration with businesses, governments, and NGOs is essential to create a circular economy framework that addresses environmental and socio-economic challenges.

There is a need for an international funding mechanism dedicated to climate resilience projects, especially in vulnerable regions. This fund could support initiatives integrating renewable energy, agriculture, and community development to address the root causes of climate vulnerability. Encouraging contributions from developed nations and international organizations is crucial to ensure adequate resources.

A global initiative promoting nature-based solutions for climate resilience is proposed. This includes reforestation projects, sustainable land management practices, and ecosystem restoration efforts. Collaboration with environmental organizations, governments, and local communities is emphasized to implement and scale up nature-based solutions addressing climate change while fostering biodiversity and sustainable livelihoods.

Facilitating the transfer of sustainable technologies from developed to developing countries is seen as necessary. The proposal suggests creating programs that provide training and capacity building for local communities to adopt and adapt these technologies. Encouraging partnerships between technology companies, research institutions, and local organizations is crucial to effectively transferring knowledge and skills.

Lastly, launching a global climate justice advocacy campaign is considered a must. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable communities. Utilizing multimedia channels to share stories, amplify voices from frontline communities, and mobilize public support for policies addressing climate and social injustices is proposed.

(Author: S N Tripathy is Former Professor of Economics, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Pune, currently at Berhampur, Odisha)