CIVIL SERVICE INFO

Stubble Burning: A Major Contributor to Delhi's Air Pollution Stubble Burning's Impact on Delhi's Air • Stubble burning, a traditional practice by farmers in Punjab and Haryana, contributes significantly to air pollution in Delhi during October and November. • Studies indicate that stubble burning accounts for an average of 22% of air pollution, peaking at 35%. Reduced Windspeed Worsens Pollution • The transition from monsoon to winter causes reduced windspeed, leading to pollutants hovering near the ground. Stubble Burning vs. Delhi Transport • On October 25, stubble burning was responsible for 15% of Delhi's air pollution, while Delhi transport contributed 18%. Other Contributors to Delhi's Pollution • Analysis by IIT Delhi and Teri consortia reveals that secondary inorganic aerosols from beyond Delhi and biomass burning within and outside Delhi are the major contributors to pollution, with vehicles contributing 17%.. Source the hindu

The COP-29 and India's carbon credit mechanism The COP-29 summit in Baku will center on climate finance, with a primary focus on carbon credits and inter-country disputes. In 2023, India revised its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to incorporate a domestic carbon market, as mandated by the Energy Conservation Act of 2022. India's objective is to harmonize its climate targets with its economic agenda, emphasizing the necessity of a market that upholds credibility, efficiency, and equity. Drawing lessons from global practices is imperative for India's success. The credibility of carbon credits stands as a cornerstone in any market, as a lack of accountability could result in greenwashing. India must conduct meticulous verification of carbon credits, leveraging a national registry and independent third-party validators. Adhering to international best practices is vital for establishing a market of high integrity. India's carbon market must align with global benc

  Global carbon market & COP 29 SOURCE THE HINDU Countries at COP29 in Baku voted to finalize a global carbon market, allowing trading of carbon credits among themselves. Prices are determined by emission caps. The market stems from the Paris Agreement's Article 6, facilitating bilateral carbon trading (Art 6.2) and global market participation (6.4). Optimism before COP 29 suggested a global carbon trading mechanism and UN-sanctioned carbon credits by 2025. Finalizing Article 6 negotiations could save $250 billion per year by enabling international cooperation. Focus on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) is crucial as carbon markets help achieve it. NCQG updates the $100 billion annual target for developing countries to adapt and mitigate emissions by 2025, a key outcome of Baku COP.