We find that pursuing social goals is, in general, associated with higher environmental impacts. However, the interactions vary greatly between countries and depend on the specific goals. In both interactions, carbon experiences smaller changes than land and water. Although efforts are needed by both higher and lower income groups, the wealthy have greater leverage to reduce humanity’s footprint. Given the importance of both social and environmental sustainability, it is important that the quantitative interactions between the SDGs are well understood so that integrated policies can be developed where needed.
- Dr. Satyawan Saurabh
India’s co-benefits approach to climate change seeks to align development goals with environmental objectives, focusing on sustainable development while addressing climate challenges. By integrating economic, social, and environmental benefits, this strategy aims to reduce emissions and enhance resilience. For example, initiatives such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change reflect India’s commitment to balancing these priorities. We find that pursuing social goals is, generally, associated with higher environmental impacts. However, the interactions vary greatly across countries and depend on the specific goals. In both interactions, carbon experiences smaller changes than land and water. Although efforts are needed by both higher and lower income groups, the rich have more leverage to reduce humanity’s footprints. Given the importance of both social and environmental sustainability, it is important that the quantitative interactions between the SDGs are well understood so that integrated policies can be developed where needed.
India’s co-benefit approach, which combines development goals with environmental objectives to drive simultaneous progress on multiple fronts: India’s co-benefit approach addresses climate change while advancing social and economic development, linking climate actions with goals such as poverty reduction and energy access. The PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme not only promotes the use of renewable energy but also provides affordable electricity to low-income households. By linking climate actions with development goals, the co-benefit approach increases public support and participation in environmental initiatives. PM E-Drive provides subsidies for electric vehicles, making them accessible while addressing urban air pollution and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. By integrating climate and development goals, resources are used more efficiently, leading to significant cost savings in policy implementation. The Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme helps industries improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and reduce emissions. The approach emphasizes enhancing resilience in sectors such as agriculture, water resources, and disaster management, which are important for vulnerable populations. State action plans on climate change focus on sector-specific vulnerabilities, ensuring targeted adaptation strategies for rural and coastal areas. The co-benefits approach encourages the development and deployment of innovative technologies that address both climate and developmental challenges. The development of solar-powered irrigation systems supports sustainable agriculture and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
The effectiveness of this strategy in balancing these priorities is well-established for achieving the dual goals of emission reduction and economic growth. India has made progress in reducing its emission intensity while sustaining economic growth, demonstrating the effectiveness of the co-benefits approach. India has steadily reduced its CO2 emissions per unit of GDP in line with its commitments under the Paris Agreement. The strategy successfully bridges the energy access gap in rural areas while accelerating the shift to renewable energy. Rooftop solar power initiatives have brought electricity to remote villages, reducing dependence on diesel generators. India’s strategy focuses on domestic initiatives to fund climate actions. This self-reliance has shown positive results. The Indian carbon market mobilizes domestic resources to incentivize emission reductions across industries. While this approach promotes sustainable practices, the need for rapid economic growth sometimes leads to compromises in environmental protection. The expansion of coal-based power plants to meet immediate energy demands poses challenges in achieving net-zero goals. Decentralized climate action through state action plans ensures that regional challenges and opportunities are adequately addressed. Heat action plans in cities like Ahmedabad have helped mitigate the effects of extreme heat, protecting vulnerable populations. While the co-benefit approach has been effective in pilot programs, scaling up these initiatives across the country remains a challenge. The National Electric Mobility Mission plan aims to promote the adoption of electric vehicles, but infrastructure development in rural areas still lags behind.
India’s co-benefits approach effectively balances climate action with development. It promotes sustainability and resilience. Sustained investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure will strengthen this strategy. It reflects the principle of addressing global challenges through localized, impactful solutions that drive meaningful progress on both development and environmental goals.
