2024-11-07 10:35:00
Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad, has emphasised the need for coordinated action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate severe climate impacts.
He pointed out that each sector contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. The 2015 Paris Agreement, which set a long-term goal of limiting the global temperature increase to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, ideally aiming for a limit of only 1.5°C to lessen climate impacts. To meet these targets, global greenhouse gas emissions must reach net zero.
Rao was inaugurating the 31st Swadeshi Science Congress organized by Swadeshi Science Movement, Kerala, in association with the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Kochi, here on Thursday.
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He also highlighted India’s key role in the adoption of the Paris Agreement, describing how the country’s leadership helped secure international consensus. By ratifying the Agreement, India reinforces its commitment to environmental protection and climate justice.
He pointed out other urgent challenges, particularly waste management, with a focus on reducing plastic pollution. Rao called on every citizen to take part in climate action, stressing individual responsibility in reducing waste, preventing food loss, and supporting sustainable practices.
George Ninan, Director, CIFT, presided over the function. P. Raveendran, Vice Chancellor of Calicut University, was the Guest of Honour.
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**Interview with Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao: Emphasizing Climate Change Action at the 31st Swadeshi Science Congress**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rao. You recently made a significant statement on the necessity of coordinated action to tackle greenhouse gas emissions. Can you tell us more about why this is so critical right now?
**Dr. Rao:** Thank you for having me. Climate change is one of the biggest threats we face today. The science is clear: to mitigate severe impacts, we need to limit global warming to well below 2°C, with an ambitious target of 1.5°C as outlined in the Paris Agreement. Each sector contributes to emissions, and we must come together to achieve net-zero emissions globally.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the role of India in adopting the Paris Agreement. How has India positioned itself on the global stage with respect to climate action?
**Dr. Rao:** India has played a crucial role in promoting the Paris Agreement, emphasizing environmental protection and climate justice. By ratifying the Agreement, India has shown its commitment to these goals. Our leadership at international forums has been instrumental in fostering consensus on these challenges, especially in a developing context.
**Interviewer:** Besides greenhouse gas emissions, you highlighted waste management as a pressing issue. What specific actions do you think individuals can take to contribute to this effort?
**Dr. Rao:** Every citizen has a role to play. Simple actions like reducing plastic use, minimizing food waste, and supporting sustainable practices can make a significant difference. Awareness and personal responsibility are vital — we need to collectively embrace these changes to combat climate change effectively.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a community-driven approach is necessary. What role do you think educational institutions can play in this initiative?
**Dr. Rao:** Educational institutions are key in shaping future leaders and responsible citizens. They can provide the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable practices while fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. By integrating sustainability into their curricula, schools and universities can empower students to take action.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Rao, for your insights. Your call for collective responsibility is timely and necessary as we navigate these challenging times.
**Dr. Rao:** Thank you, it’s been a pleasure discussing these critical issues. Together, we can make a difference.
