Climate solution must be based on equity: Economic Survey

NEW DELHI - Any solution to climate change must involve all countries, with reorganisation of “common but differentiated responsibilities” and the principle of “equity”, according to the Economic Survey 2010-11 tabled in the Lok Sabha Friday.

The survey tabled by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said in future climate change negotiations the developing countries need to ensure a space for themselves for equitable access to atmospheric resources.

“A successful global effort for addressing climate change must be built on sound principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities.

“Equity in terms of equitable access to global atmospheric resources should define the pathway to attain a long-term goal in line with the broad findings of science,” the survey said.

According to it, India’s initiatives will succeed if the global framework of actions is effective and supportive.

“While the outcomes in Cancun on climate fund, technology mechanism, and adaptation framework and forestry are welcome, further work is needed on strengthening of weak mitigation pledges by developed countries, preventing unilateral trade actions in the name of climate change, and continuing a dialogue on intellectual property rights as part of technology development and transfer efforts,” the survey said.

The survey also laid emphasis on the continuation of the Kyoto Protocol in its second commitment period and adoption of robust mitigation commitments by developed countries in accordance with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.