India's Minister for Road Transport and Highways Mr Nitin Gadkari made a big announcement at WION Climate Summit on March 15. He revealed that India's first Hydrogen-powered car was to be unveiled on Wednesday (March 16). The car, made as a pilot project, was kept at his residence, he said.

Gadkari was chief guest at the first edition of WION's annual Climate Summit the theme of which was 'Climate Calling: The last chance to answer climate emergency'.

Nitin Gadkari is a veteran politician of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has ably steered various ministries on national and state level.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-climate-change-can-deprive-us-from-basic-needs-warns-sudhir-chaudhary-462548">WION Climate Summit: Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, warns Sudhir Chaudhary</a>

In his address during the summit, Gadkari said that there was a need to find alternate options for fuels like petrol and diesel.

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"Cost of running a vehicle on petrol is Rs 10 per kilometre. On diesel, it is Rs 7 to 8. But for a vehicle running on electricity, the cost comes down to less than Re 1," he said.

He said that Indian government was focusing on more electric vehicles. He drew attention to the fact that electric vehicles like tractors and trucks were already being manufactured in India. He expressed hope that manufacture of electric vehicles will get a boost in India and that customers will also go electric in their choice for a personal vehicle. He said that

During he speech, he elaborated the fine balance that needed to be struck while making a shift to electric vehicles. He said that India's automobile sector was expanding. It remains a sector that produces jobs for thousands of people in the country. But at the same time, air pollution caused by traditional vehicles was also a big issue.

India's Minister for Road Transport and Highways Mr Nitin Gadkari made a big announcement at WION Climate Summit on March 15. He revealed that India's first Hydrogen-powered car was to be unveiled on Wednesday (March 16).

India's Minister for Road Transport and Highways Mr Nitin Gadkari made a big announcement at WION Climate Summit on March 15. He revealed that India's first Hydrogen-powered car was to be unveiled on Wednesday (March 16). The car, made as a pilot project, was kept at his residence, he said. Gadkari was chief guest at the first edition of WION's annual Climate Summit the theme of which was 'Climate Calling: The last chance to answer climate emergency'. Nitin Gadkari is a veteran politician of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has ably steered various ministries on national and state level. Also Read | WION Climate Summit: Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, warns Sudhir Chaudhary In his address during the summit, Gadkari said that there was a need to find alternate options for fuels like petrol and diesel. × "Cost of running a vehicle on petrol is Rs 10 per kilometre. On diesel, it is Rs 7 to 8. But for a vehicle running on electricity, the cost comes down to less than Re 1," he said. He said that Indian government was focusing on more electric vehicles. He drew attention to the fact that electric vehicles like tractors and trucks were already being manufactured in India. He expressed hope that manufacture of electric vehicles will get a boost in India and that customers will also go electric in their choice for a personal vehicle. He said that During he speech, he elaborated the fine balance that needed to be struck while making a shift to electric vehicles. He said that India's automobile sector was expanding. It remains a sector that produces jobs for thousands of people in the country. But at the same time, air pollution caused by traditional vehicles was also a big issue.

WION Climate Summit | India's first Hydrogen-powered car to be unveiled: Gadkari

"There is a lot going on (about electric vehicles)," was Mahua Acharya's conclusion at her opening remarks during a session in WION Climate Summit. The Managing Director and CEO of Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) had a lot to talk about electric vehicles and their ecosystem.

The session titled 'Beyond mobility' was moderated by WION's Jasper Reid.&nbsp;

Acharya opined that there was a lot of discussion going on in India when it came to electric vehicles. This discussion, she said, circled around batteries of the electric vehicles, pollution and the issue of charging stations (Are there enough?).

While these points found their way into discussions being held by the public, manufacturers had other concerns, she said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-climate-change-can-deprive-us-from-basic-needs-warns-sudhir-chaudhary-462548">WION Climate Summit: Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, warns Sudhir Chaudhary</a>

According to Mahua Acharya, the manufacturers were wondering where would the steady supply for components come from.

Acharya noted that on federal level, India's central government was actively making efforts to popularise use of electric vehicles (EVs). This included measures like subsidising EVs.

All in all this is a "very aggressive period for electric vehicles," opined Mahua Acharya.

She made an observation that while "legacy" automotive players in the market were making moves to enter the electric vehicle market, there were a number of new players as well.

"That is quite encouraging to see," she said.

"There is a lot going on (about electric vehicles)," was Mahua Acharya's conclusion at her opening remarks during a session in WION Climate Summit. The Managing Director and CEO of Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) had a lot to talk about electric vehicles and their ecosystem.

"There is a lot going on (about electric vehicles)," was Mahua Acharya's conclusion at her opening remarks during a session in WION Climate Summit. The Managing Director and CEO of Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) had a lot to talk about electric vehicles and their ecosystem. The session titled 'Beyond mobility' was moderated by WION's Jasper Reid. Acharya opined that there was a lot of discussion going on in India when it came to electric vehicles. This discussion, she said, circled around batteries of the electric vehicles, pollution and the issue of charging stations (Are there enough?). While these points found their way into discussions being held by the public, manufacturers had other concerns, she said. Also Read | WION Climate Summit: Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, warns Sudhir Chaudhary According to Mahua Acharya, the manufacturers were wondering where would the steady supply for components come from. Acharya noted that on federal level, India's central government was actively making efforts to popularise use of electric vehicles (EVs). This included measures like subsidising EVs. All in all this is a "very aggressive period for electric vehicles," opined Mahua Acharya. She made an observation that while "legacy" automotive players in the market were making moves to enter the electric vehicle market, there were a number of new players as well. "That is quite encouraging to see," she said.

WION Climate Summit | Very aggressive period for electric vehicles, says Mahua Acharya

While speaking during WION Climate Summit, Shauna Aminath, the environment minister of Maldives talked about the climate crisis, which is a burning topic globally as world leaders are coming together to address the issue.&nbsp;

During her address, she said," Maldives is very climate-vulnerable. The highest point in our country is just about 1.5 metres above the sea and we are 1200 islands. So the sea is just all around us."&nbsp;

"Sea level rises is a threat to our existence which is why reducing global greenhouse gas emissions is a question of national security for us," said Aminath, who is also the former policy secretary to the President of the Maldives.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-nepals-environment-minister-urges-for-global-partnerships-to-combat-climate-crisis-462719">WION Climate Summit: Nepal's environment minister urges for global partnerships to combat climate crisis</a>

"As an island nation, our oceans are connected to every aspect of our lives, our economy, and our future. We are only as resilient as our reefs, dependent on them for our survival and livelihood", said Aminath during her address.&nbsp;

The minister said that the problem the Maldives face is one of finance. "We need access to affordable finance so we can invest in energy projects."&nbsp;

Highlighting the financial assistance by the Indian government, Aminath said, "The Indian government is already providing concessional financing for the Maldives to build water and sanitation systems in 34 islands, one of the largest adaptation measures."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-denmarks-ambassador-to-india-emphasised-the-need-of-individual-responsibility-462688">Denmark's Ambassador to India emphasised the need of individual responsibility</a>

"Similarly, India and Indian renewable energy companies can play a big role. We would like you to come to the Maldives to help us to build our new and renewable energy infrastructure," Aminath said.&nbsp;

She called global partners to address the challenges posed by climate change collectively.&nbsp;

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As an island nation, our oceans are connected to every aspect of 
our lives, our economy, and our future. We are only as resilient as our reefs, says <a href="https://twitter.com/anuahsa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anuahsa</a>, Maldives environment minister<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONClimateSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONClimateSummit</a> <a href="https://t.co/RKZNVj77Pn">pic.twitter.com/RKZNVj77Pn</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1503695442403418118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While speaking during WION Climate Summit, Shauna Aminath, the environment minister of Maldives talked about the climate crisis, which is a burning topic globally as world leaders are coming together to address the issue.

While speaking during WION Climate Summit, Shauna Aminath, the environment minister of Maldives talked about the climate crisis, which is a burning topic globally as world leaders are coming together to address the issue. During her address, she said," Maldives is very climate-vulnerable. The highest point in our country is just about 1.5 metres above the sea and we are 1200 islands. So the sea is just all around us." "Sea level rises is a threat to our existence which is why reducing global greenhouse gas emissions is a question of national security for us," said Aminath, who is also the former policy secretary to the President of the Maldives. ALSO READ | WION Climate Summit: Nepal's environment minister urges for global partnerships to combat climate crisis "As an island nation, our oceans are connected to every aspect of our lives, our economy, and our future. We are only as resilient as our reefs, dependent on them for our survival and livelihood", said Aminath during her address. The minister said that the problem the Maldives face is one of finance. "We need access to affordable finance so we can invest in energy projects." Highlighting the financial assistance by the Indian government, Aminath said, "The Indian government is already providing concessional financing for the Maldives to build water and sanitation systems in 34 islands, one of the largest adaptation measures." ALSO READ | Denmark's Ambassador to India emphasised the need of individual responsibility "Similarly, India and Indian renewable energy companies can play a big role. We would like you to come to the Maldives to help us to build our new and renewable energy infrastructure," Aminath said. She called global partners to address the challenges posed by climate change collectively. As an island nation, our oceans are connected to every aspect of our lives, our economy, and our future. We are only as resilient as our reefs, says @anuahsa, Maldives environment minister#WIONClimateSummit pic.twitter.com/RKZNVj77Pn — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2022 ×

WION Climate Summit: Maldives minister urges for access to affordable finance to address climate issues

Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Nepal's forest and environment minister weighed in on the climate crisis that the world is facing right and called it the "most serious issue", especially for the developing countries. He emphasised the impacts of climate change in Nepal.&nbsp;

While speaking during the WION Climate Summit, Yadav said that Nepal is "highly vulnerable" to climate change. He said that the recent climate-related incidents showed that sensitivity to climate change has been increasing. &nbsp;He said we need to be well prepared to cope with the issue.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-denmarks-ambassador-to-india-emphasised-the-need-of-individual-responsibility-462688">Denmark's Ambassador to India emphasised the need of individual responsibility</a>

"Due to geology and topography, microclimatic condition and the associated livelihood with climate-sensitive sector and limited financial institutional capacity, the climate-induced responsibility may increase," the minister said during his address at the summit.&nbsp;

The minister further said that Nepal has a very "low contribution" to greenhouse gas emission, but the climate vulnerability is "among the highest". Despite that Nepal has approved a long-run strategy for low greenhouse gas emissions, he said.&nbsp;

He added that development aiming to get net-zero by 2045 and submitted it to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-very-aggressive-period-for-electric-vehicles-says-mahua-acharya-462690">WION Climate Summit | Very aggressive period for electric vehicles, says Mahua Acharya</a>

He said climate change adaptation is the priority of Nepal in climate action, adding that recently National Adaptation Plan of Nepal has been approved and the country's adaptation actions will be guided by the programmes indicated by the National Adaptation Plan document.&nbsp;

He said that Nepal is committed to preparing and implementing a local adaptation plan of action for all municipalities by 2030. This is subsequently reflected in the nationally determined contribution.&nbsp;

He said Nepal needs "significant financial resources, technology and capacity development support" to implement policies and plans related to climate change.&nbsp;

He further added that global and regional partnerships are essential in combating the challenges posed by climate changes successfully.&nbsp;

Watch his address here:&nbsp;

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Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Nepal's forest and environment minister weighed in on the climate crisis that the world is facing right and called it the "most serious issue", especially for the developing countries.

Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Nepal's forest and environment minister weighed in on the climate crisis that the world is facing right and called it the "most serious issue", especially for the developing countries. He emphasised the impacts of climate change in Nepal. While speaking during the WION Climate Summit, Yadav said that Nepal is "highly vulnerable" to climate change. He said that the recent climate-related incidents showed that sensitivity to climate change has been increasing. He said we need to be well prepared to cope with the issue. ALSO READ | Denmark's Ambassador to India emphasised the need of individual responsibility "Due to geology and topography, microclimatic condition and the associated livelihood with climate-sensitive sector and limited financial institutional capacity, the climate-induced responsibility may increase," the minister said during his address at the summit. The minister further said that Nepal has a very "low contribution" to greenhouse gas emission, but the climate vulnerability is "among the highest". Despite that Nepal has approved a long-run strategy for low greenhouse gas emissions, he said. He added that development aiming to get net-zero by 2045 and submitted it to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. ALSO READ | WION Climate Summit | Very aggressive period for electric vehicles, says Mahua Acharya He said climate change adaptation is the priority of Nepal in climate action, adding that recently National Adaptation Plan of Nepal has been approved and the country's adaptation actions will be guided by the programmes indicated by the National Adaptation Plan document. He said that Nepal is committed to preparing and implementing a local adaptation plan of action for all municipalities by 2030. This is subsequently reflected in the nationally determined contribution. He said Nepal needs "significant financial resources, technology and capacity development support" to implement policies and plans related to climate change. He further added that global and regional partnerships are essential in combating the challenges posed by climate changes successfully. Watch his address here: ×

WION Climate Summit: Nepal's environment minister urges for global partnerships to combat climate crisis

Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, the Editor-In-Chief&nbsp;and CEO&nbsp;of WION&nbsp;Sudhir Chaudhary warned as he kicked off the first climate summit of the global news channel.&nbsp;The theme of the summit was 'Climate Calling: The last chance to answer climate emergency'.

"It's my honour to welcome you all in WION's first climate summit but not the last," he said at the outset.

"I want to start with a few questions. What is our top priority when we look at the problems that need to be solved? For example, in my own country India, for decades, we have been focussing on Bijli, Sadak, Paani (electricity, roads, water, food)"

He said that Indian politics remained focussed on these basic issues which he noted, remained primary issues of discussion for the average citizens of the country.

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"On the other hand," he said, "Issues like Climate Chnage, mental health are discussed on very elite forums of international conferences"

He observed that common citizens and mainstream media were "still far away" from these issues.

It is often that issues like Climate Change are considered somebody else's problem.

"Climate Change is already changing our lives," said Chaudhary.

Sharing his personal experience, Sudhir Chaudhary said that, coming from a middle-class Indian family, he was able to buy his first air conditioner only when he started working. Before that purchase, he said, he never felt the need ('nor had money') for an AC.

"But now, a day without AC is unthinkable," he candidly admitted.

Drawing attention to increased use of appliances like air-purifiers, Chaudhary sounded a warning that Climate Change had the potential of "depriving us from our basic needs"

"This summit is an attempt to change our approach. Today, as a news channel, we want to give this platform to domain experts, policy makers, to all of you to raise awareness and take the steps that need to be taken. I welcome you all to this summit," he said as he concluded.

Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, the Editor-In-Chief and CEO of WION Sudhir Chaudhary warned as he kicked off the first climate summit of the global news channel.

Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, the Editor-In-Chief and CEO of WION Sudhir Chaudhary warned as he kicked off the first climate summit of the global news channel. The theme of the summit was 'Climate Calling: The last chance to answer climate emergency'. "It's my honour to welcome you all in WION's first climate summit but not the last," he said at the outset. "I want to start with a few questions. What is our top priority when we look at the problems that need to be solved? For example, in my own country India, for decades, we have been focussing on Bijli, Sadak, Paani (electricity, roads, water, food)" He said that Indian politics remained focussed on these basic issues which he noted, remained primary issues of discussion for the average citizens of the country. × "On the other hand," he said, "Issues like Climate Chnage, mental health are discussed on very elite forums of international conferences" He observed that common citizens and mainstream media were "still far away" from these issues. It is often that issues like Climate Change are considered somebody else's problem. "Climate Change is already changing our lives," said Chaudhary. Sharing his personal experience, Sudhir Chaudhary said that, coming from a middle-class Indian family, he was able to buy his first air conditioner only when he started working. Before that purchase, he said, he never felt the need ('nor had money') for an AC. "But now, a day without AC is unthinkable," he candidly admitted. Drawing attention to increased use of appliances like air-purifiers, Chaudhary sounded a warning that Climate Change had the potential of "depriving us from our basic needs" "This summit is an attempt to change our approach. Today, as a news channel, we want to give this platform to domain experts, policy makers, to all of you to raise awareness and take the steps that need to be taken. I welcome you all to this summit," he said as he concluded.

WION Climate Summit: Climate Change can deprive us of basic needs, warns Sudhir Chaudhary

Speaking at the WION’s Climate Summit, European climate pact ambassador, Netherlands, Laura De Vries called on the government across the world to shift their focus on “sustainable investment”, saying that the present level of investment was insufficient to mitigate the effects of climate change.

“So far, we have not invested (enough). For example, in Netherlands, we know we have to invest a certain amount of money for the climate transition. This government’s record is better, but it is still not there. I think that the problem persists globally,” she said while speaking about the importance of commerce of climate.

“The investors do not see the business on sustainable investing yet. We need to make sure that we are investing as much as possible to negate the damages to a minimum,” she added.

She also called for more engagement of youth in the decision-making process with regards to tackling climate change.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-climate-summit-climate-change-impacts-are-getting-more-severe-says-professor-tim-smith-462686">Also read:&nbsp;WION&nbsp;Climate Summit | ‘Climate change impacts are getting more severe,’ says professor Tim Smith</a>

“Since our future is affected, we tend to be more long-term thinking, we are creative and invested in climate crisis. We are more interested in this because it about our future, our children and grandchildren. And because of that, it is really important to involve us. The challenges we are facing right now, and the solutions we are taking, it has to be more climate-proof. So, all the solutions we are thinking of right now, it should suit the future,” De Vries asserted.

She, however, was quick to add that the decision-making process should be more inclusive and that the people from different sections of the society, especially the indigenous communities, must be involved.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-indias-first-hydrogen-powered-car-to-be-unveiled-gadkari-462655">WION Climate Summit | India's first Hydrogen-powered car to be unveiled: Gadkari</a>

“It is not only about the future generations, but it is also about inclusivity. So, I think, apart from the youth, people from marginalised communities, tribal communities etc., should also be involved. Also, it is really important to learn from each other. Take for example&nbsp;indigenous communities. They know how to preserve the earth’s biodiversity. It’s just a waste of resources by not learning from them,” she added.

Speaking at the WION’s Climate Summit, European climate pact ambassador, Netherlands, Laura De Vries called on the government across the world to shift their focus on “sustainable investment”, saying that the present level of investment was insufficient to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Speaking at the WION’s Climate Summit, European climate pact ambassador, Netherlands, Laura De Vries called on the government across the world to shift their focus on “sustainable investment”, saying that the present level of investment was insufficient to mitigate the effects of climate change. “So far, we have not invested (enough). For example, in Netherlands, we know we have to invest a certain amount of money for the climate transition. This government’s record is better, but it is still not there. I think that the problem persists globally,” she said while speaking about the importance of commerce of climate. “The investors do not see the business on sustainable investing yet. We need to make sure that we are investing as much as possible to negate the damages to a minimum,” she added. She also called for more engagement of youth in the decision-making process with regards to tackling climate change. Also read: WION Climate Summit | ‘Climate change impacts are getting more severe,’ says professor Tim Smith “Since our future is affected, we tend to be more long-term thinking, we are creative and invested in climate crisis. We are more interested in this because it about our future, our children and grandchildren. And because of that, it is really important to involve us. The challenges we are facing right now, and the solutions we are taking, it has to be more climate-proof. So, all the solutions we are thinking of right now, it should suit the future,” De Vries asserted. She, however, was quick to add that the decision-making process should be more inclusive and that the people from different sections of the society, especially the indigenous communities, must be involved. Also read: WION Climate Summit | India's first Hydrogen-powered car to be unveiled: Gadkari “It is not only about the future generations, but it is also about inclusivity. So, I think, apart from the youth, people from marginalised communities, tribal communities etc., should also be involved. Also, it is really important to learn from each other. Take for example indigenous communities. They know how to preserve the earth’s biodiversity. It’s just a waste of resources by not learning from them,” she added.

WION Climate Summit | Governments not focusing enough on sustainable investment, says Laura De Vries

During WION's climate summit, Divya Datt, programme management officer, UNEP, India has said that we should look at climate change as a half-empty glass and take action.

''If you look at the assessments that are being done today, and the science that is being generated, there is a target to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels,'' she told WION's executive editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay during the first session of the summit.

''But even with unconditional commitments and all the pledges that the countries have taken we are looking at a rise in temperature of 2.7 degrees Celsius,'' she added.

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"Even with all the unconditional commitments and pledges by the countries, we are looking at an increase of 2.7 degrees Celsius by the end of the century," says <a href="https://twitter.com/divya_datt18?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@divya_datt18</a>, Programme Management Officer, UNEP<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONClimateSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONClimateSummit</a> <a href="https://t.co/8e9h50is3S">pic.twitter.com/8e9h50is3S</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1503688572787838977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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''In many parts of the world we are seeing calamities at an unprecedented scale as a result of climate change,'' Datt said.

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For a lot of environmental crises, the solutions are there. But we need commitments, not just from the government, but from businesses and civil societies as well: <a href="https://twitter.com/divya_datt18?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@divya_datt18</a>, Programme Management Officer, UNEP<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONClimateSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONClimateSummit</a> <a href="https://t.co/NcDWCbW58F">pic.twitter.com/NcDWCbW58F</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1503692384915259394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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''To reach that 1.5 degrees Celsius and reduce greenhouse emissions we need to fulfill net-zero commitments.''

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The corporate world remains far from being aligned with global climate goals, and in some countries has gone backward since a landmark agreement to cap global warming was signed in 2015.

With this week's UN&nbsp;climate science report laying bare the staggering economic costs and losses already faced from climate change, an inevitable question arises: who should pay?

Within UN&nbsp;climate negotiations, "loss and damage" refers to the costs countries are incurring from climate-related impacts and disasters - costs that disproportionately hit the world's poor and vulnerable who did least to cause global warming.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-former-norway-minister-mentions-inspiring-examples-from-india-462627" hreflang="en">WION Climate Summit: Former Norway minister Eric Solheim mentions 'inspiring examples' from India</a>

Drawing on more than 34,000 references from the latest scientific papers, the report released on Monday by the UN&nbsp;Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) confirmed that economic sectors from agriculture and fishing to tourism were already being damaged.

Extreme heat has fuelled crop losses. Rising seas have turbo-charged cyclones that have razed homes and infrastructure, slashing economic growth.

And as the bills mount up, poorer countries are left with even less to spend on heath, education and infrastructure – compounding suffering.

The report is likely to intensify a years-long political fight over funding to pay for climate-linked losses, ahead of the next UN&nbsp;climate summit, COP27, in Eygpt in November.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-indian-policies-to-be-based-on-equity-and-climate-justice-says-environment-minister-462589" hreflang="en">WION Climate Summit: Indian policies based on equity and climate justice, says environment minister</a>

Vulnerable countries for years have sought funding to help them shoulder these costs. So far, it hasn't arrived, and rich nations have resisted steps that could legally assign liability or lead to compensation.

The mention of "loss and damage" in the 2015 Paris Agreement came with the caveat that it "does not involve or provide a basis for any liability or compensation".

Last November at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, poor countries called for a special "loss and damage" fund to be established, but the United States and other rich nations resisted. The delegates agreed to set up a U.N. body to help countries address loss and damage, and to continue discussions towards making "arrangements" for funding.

Last month, the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned that nine percent of all the world's species will likely be "at high risk" of extinction even if warming is capped at the ambitious Paris target of 1.5 degrees Celsius.

In 2019, a report by UN biodiversity experts said one million species could disappear in the coming decades, raising fears the world is entering a sixth era of mass extinction in the last half-billion years.

During WION's climate summit, Divya Datt, programme management officer, UNEP, India has said that we should look at climate change as a half-empty glass and take action.

During WION's climate summit, Divya Datt, programme management officer, UNEP, India has said that we should look at climate change as a half-empty glass and take action. ''If you look at the assessments that are being done today, and the science that is being generated, there is a target to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels,'' she told WION's executive editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay during the first session of the summit. ''But even with unconditional commitments and all the pledges that the countries have taken we are looking at a rise in temperature of 2.7 degrees Celsius,'' she added. "Even with all the unconditional commitments and pledges by the countries, we are looking at an increase of 2.7 degrees Celsius by the end of the century," says @divya_datt18, Programme Management Officer, UNEP#WIONClimateSummit pic.twitter.com/8e9h50is3S — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2022 × ''In many parts of the world we are seeing calamities at an unprecedented scale as a result of climate change,'' Datt said. For a lot of environmental crises, the solutions are there. But we need commitments, not just from the government, but from businesses and civil societies as well: @divya_datt18, Programme Management Officer, UNEP#WIONClimateSummit pic.twitter.com/NcDWCbW58F — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2022 × ''To reach that 1.5 degrees Celsius and reduce greenhouse emissions we need to fulfill net-zero commitments.'' The corporate world remains far from being aligned with global climate goals, and in some countries has gone backward since a landmark agreement to cap global warming was signed in 2015. With this week's UN climate science report laying bare the staggering economic costs and losses already faced from climate change, an inevitable question arises: who should pay? Within UN climate negotiations, "loss and damage" refers to the costs countries are incurring from climate-related impacts and disasters - costs that disproportionately hit the world's poor and vulnerable who did least to cause global warming. Also read | WION Climate Summit: Former Norway minister Eric Solheim mentions 'inspiring examples' from India Drawing on more than 34,000 references from the latest scientific papers, the report released on Monday by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) confirmed that economic sectors from agriculture and fishing to tourism were already being damaged. Extreme heat has fuelled crop losses. Rising seas have turbo-charged cyclones that have razed homes and infrastructure, slashing economic growth. And as the bills mount up, poorer countries are left with even less to spend on heath, education and infrastructure – compounding suffering. The report is likely to intensify a years-long political fight over funding to pay for climate-linked losses, ahead of the next UN climate summit, COP27, in Eygpt in November. Also read | WION Climate Summit: Indian policies based on equity and climate justice, says environment minister Vulnerable countries for years have sought funding to help them shoulder these costs. So far, it hasn't arrived, and rich nations have resisted steps that could legally assign liability or lead to compensation. The mention of "loss and damage" in the 2015 Paris Agreement came with the caveat that it "does not involve or provide a basis for any liability or compensation". Last November at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, poor countries called for a special "loss and damage" fund to be established, but the United States and other rich nations resisted. The delegates agreed to set up a U.N. body to help countries address loss and damage, and to continue discussions towards making "arrangements" for funding. Last month, the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned that nine percent of all the world's species will likely be "at high risk" of extinction even if warming is capped at the ambitious Paris target of 1.5 degrees Celsius. In 2019, a report by UN biodiversity experts said one million species could disappear in the coming decades, raising fears the world is entering a sixth era of mass extinction in the last half-billion years.

We should look at climate change as a half-empty glass and take action, UNEP's Divya Datt tells WION

Shauna Aminath, the Maldives minister of environment, climate change and technology speaking at WION's Climate Summit said her country is extremely&nbsp;"climate vulnerable".

"The highest point in our country is just about 1.5 metres above the sea level," the minister said at the summit while informing that there are 1,200 islands in the country.

"The sea is all around us," Aminath Shauna said while warning that the rise in sea level is a threat to the country's existence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-indias-first-hydrogen-powered-car-to-be-unveiled-gadkari-462655">Also Read |&nbsp;WION Climate Summit | India's first Hydrogen-powered car to be unveiled, says&nbsp;Gadkari</a>

"Reducing global greenhouse gas emission is a question of national security for the country," the minister said at the summit. Shauna Aminath&nbsp;said the country has been grappling with coastal erosion. The groundwater has been contaminated in every island, she said with "coral reef under stress" due to global warming.

"As an island nation, oceans are connected to every aspect of our lives, we are only as resilient as our reefs while depending on them for our survival and livelihood," she said.

Watch |&nbsp;Wion Climate Summit: Where do we find the money to fund climate change?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-summit-where-do-we-find-the-money-to-fund-climate-change-462644/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Aminath Shauna said the world faces a financial problem on climate. "We need access to affordable finance so that we can invest in solar energy projects."

"The Indian government is already providing concessional financing to build water and sanitation systems in 34 islands which is one of the largest adaptation measures," she said.

The minister said India's renewable energy companies can play a big role as she invited Indian companies to build renewable energy infrastructure.

Shauna Aminath, the Maldives minister of environment, climate change and technology speaking at WION's Climate Summit said her country is extremely "climate vulnerable".

Shauna Aminath, the Maldives minister of environment, climate change and technology speaking at WION's Climate Summit said her country is extremely "climate vulnerable". "The highest point in our country is just about 1.5 metres above the sea level," the minister said at the summit while informing that there are 1,200 islands in the country. "The sea is all around us," Aminath Shauna said while warning that the rise in sea level is a threat to the country's existence. Also Read | WION Climate Summit | India's first Hydrogen-powered car to be unveiled, says Gadkari "Reducing global greenhouse gas emission is a question of national security for the country," the minister said at the summit. Shauna Aminath said the country has been grappling with coastal erosion. The groundwater has been contaminated in every island, she said with "coral reef under stress" due to global warming. "As an island nation, oceans are connected to every aspect of our lives, we are only as resilient as our reefs while depending on them for our survival and livelihood," she said. Watch | Wion Climate Summit: Where do we find the money to fund climate change? Aminath Shauna said the world faces a financial problem on climate. "We need access to affordable finance so that we can invest in solar energy projects." "The Indian government is already providing concessional financing to build water and sanitation systems in 34 islands which is one of the largest adaptation measures," she said. The minister said India's renewable energy companies can play a big role as she invited Indian companies to build renewable energy infrastructure.

WION Climate Summit: We need access to affordable finance, says Maldives minister Shauna Aminath

WION Climate Summit, held on March 15, brought together leading voices from across the globe to discuss the singular threat to humankind: Climate Change. The theme of the summit was 'Climate Calling: The last chance to answer climate emergency'.

The domain experts, policymakers and other eminent voices on the panels concurred that it was a fight all countries should join forces to fight. The threat of Climate Change is beyond politics.

Eric Solheim, former minister of international development, Norway, praised some of the initiatives being taken up in India.

"21st century is about win-win policies," said Solheim. He said that thrust of policymaking had shifted to taking decisions that are good for environment as well as for people and economic growth of countries.&nbsp;

Eric Solheim, the minister,&nbsp;said that scaring people into taking actions against Climate Change didn't work, so now the emphasis is increasingly on inspiring people to take action. In this regard, he mentioned 'inspiring examples' from India.

"In the state of Telangana, they have increased the tree cover by 3 per cent in last few years," he said. He mentioned that Maharashtra had taken promising steps to protect mangroves that protect the coastline. He mentioned 'small forests' within the city of Bengaluru which were created with the help of an NGO.

"In Andhra Pradesh," he said,"1 million farmers had taken up green farming".

India's proactive stance to tackle Climate Change was also underlined by Bhupender Yadav, Environment Minister in a speech he delivered earlier in the summit.

"India has also overachieved one of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) announced at Paris Climate Summit (2015) by already meeting 40% of its power capacity from non-fossil fuels as of November 2021 - almost nine years ahead of its commitment," he said.

The environment minister drew attention to the fact that though developed countries formed a smaller percentage of global population, the carbon emissions from these countries have been huge.&nbsp;

WION Climate Summit, held on March 15, brought together leading voices from across the globe to discuss the singular threat to humankind: Climate Change. The theme of the summit was 'Climate Calling: The last chance to answer climate emergency'.

WION Climate Summit, held on March 15, brought together leading voices from across the globe to discuss the singular threat to humankind: Climate Change. The theme of the summit was 'Climate Calling: The last chance to answer climate emergency'. The domain experts, policymakers and other eminent voices on the panels concurred that it was a fight all countries should join forces to fight. The threat of Climate Change is beyond politics. Eric Solheim, former minister of international development, Norway, praised some of the initiatives being taken up in India. "21st century is about win-win policies," said Solheim. He said that thrust of policymaking had shifted to taking decisions that are good for environment as well as for people and economic growth of countries. Eric Solheim, the minister, said that scaring people into taking actions against Climate Change didn't work, so now the emphasis is increasingly on inspiring people to take action. In this regard, he mentioned 'inspiring examples' from India. "In the state of Telangana, they have increased the tree cover by 3 per cent in last few years," he said. He mentioned that Maharashtra had taken promising steps to protect mangroves that protect the coastline. He mentioned 'small forests' within the city of Bengaluru which were created with the help of an NGO. "In Andhra Pradesh," he said,"1 million farmers had taken up green farming". India's proactive stance to tackle Climate Change was also underlined by Bhupender Yadav, Environment Minister in a speech he delivered earlier in the summit. "India has also overachieved one of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) announced at Paris Climate Summit (2015) by already meeting 40% of its power capacity from non-fossil fuels as of November 2021 - almost nine years ahead of its commitment," he said. The environment minister drew attention to the fact that though developed countries formed a smaller percentage of global population, the carbon emissions from these countries have been huge.

WION Climate Summit: Former Norway minister Eric Solheim mentions 'inspiring examples' from India

Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former president of Mauritius speaking at WION's Climate Summit said climate change is an "existential threat to humanity".&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, the people are still not waking up to this crisis," she told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma. "It is especially important for us islanders, until we treat climate change as an emergency we won't be able to handle it."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-the-last-chance-to-answer-climate-emergency-462357">Also Read:&nbsp;Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, warns Sudhir Chaudhary</a>

Erik Solheim, Norway's former minister of international development, speaking at the event, said: "The problem is huge but we are also stepping up."

Watch | WION Climate Summit Road to Change: Understanding climate change

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-summit-live-road-to-change-understanding-climate-change-462556/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"First of all businesses are well ahead of the political leaders. Microsoft in the US, Ikea in Europe have taken up the issue. Secondly, the European Union has also stepped up and China is concentrating on environmental technology whether it is solar or wind energy."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-climate-summit-indian-policies-to-be-based-on-equity-and-climate-justice-says-environment-minister-462589">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian policies based on equity and climate justice, says environment minister</a>

"In India, Prime Minister Modi has put India on a completely new trajectory by going big on solar, so I see a lot of reason for optimism."

"We acted more during the COVID-19 period than we did earlier in many years," Erik Solheim said.

Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former president of Mauritius speaking at WION's Climate Summit said climate change is an "existential threat to humanity". "Unfortunately, the people are still not waking up to this crisis," she told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma.

Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former president of Mauritius speaking at WION's Climate Summit said climate change is an "existential threat to humanity". "Unfortunately, the people are still not waking up to this crisis," she told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma. "It is especially important for us islanders, until we treat climate change as an emergency we won't be able to handle it." Also Read: Climate Change can deprive us from basic needs, warns Sudhir Chaudhary Erik Solheim, Norway's former minister of international development, speaking at the event, said: "The problem is huge but we are also stepping up." Watch | WION Climate Summit Road to Change: Understanding climate change "First of all businesses are well ahead of the political leaders. Microsoft in the US, Ikea in Europe have taken up the issue. Secondly, the European Union has also stepped up and China is concentrating on environmental technology whether it is solar or wind energy." Also Read: Indian policies based on equity and climate justice, says environment minister "In India, Prime Minister Modi has put India on a completely new trajectory by going big on solar, so I see a lot of reason for optimism." "We acted more during the COVID-19 period than we did earlier in many years," Erik Solheim said.

WION Climate Summit: Climate change is an existential threat to humanity, says Mauritius ex-president