Carpooling can save 380 million litres of fuel : Economic Survey lists collective actions for environment

The Economic Survey 2024-2025 tabled in the Lok Sabha on Friday (January 31, 2025), stated that carpooling could reduce 380 million litres of fuel in India. Listing several lifestyle changes like — carpooling, recycling newspaper, finishing food on one’s plate, the Survey extolled the ‘power of collective action’ which could contribute to climate change mitigation. Under the chapter titled ‘Climate and Environment’, the Survey extolled India’s Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) Mission which led a ‘widespread public movement to encourage low-carbon lifestyles and energy conservation behaviours’. Based on the NITI Aayog report on the LiFE mission, the Survey estimated that lifestyle change by 13% of global population can reduce carbon emission by 20%.

The Impact of Small Changes on the Environment

The effects of small changes in public actions on the environment are a topic of increasing interest. Researchers have been studying the impact of these small actions on the environment, and the results are promising.

These actions are categorized into four main areas of concern, which are: (1) energy efficiency; (2) water conservation; (3) waste management; and (4) biodiversity conservation. The actions are categorized into four levels of intensity. The first three levels are relatively easy to implement, while the 4th level requires more effort and resources. The report highlights the need for behavioral change, as well as the need for policy and regulatory support to encourage the implementation of these actions.

The Plan’s Key Components

The Mission’s plan is built around several key components that aim to make a significant impact on the environment. These components include:

Reducing Plastic Use: The Mission aims to reduce plastic use by 50% by 2025, which will help to decrease marine pollution and protect wildlife habitats. Increasing Renewable Energy: The Mission plans to increase renewable energy production by 20% by 2025, which will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: The Mission aims to promote sustainable agriculture practices by 30% by 2025, which will help to reduce deforestation and protect biodiversity. * Encouraging Eco-Friendly Transportation: The Mission plans to encourage eco-friendly transportation options by 20% by 2025, which will help to reduce air pollution and promote sustainable transportation. ## The Benefits of the Mission**

The Benefits of the Mission

The Mission’s plan has several benefits that will have a positive impact on the environment and society. These benefits include:

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The Mission’s plan to increase renewable energy production will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. Protection of Wildlife Habitats: The Mission’s plan to reduce plastic use will help to protect wildlife habitats and prevent marine pollution. Improved Air Quality: The Mission’s plan to encourage eco-friendly transportation will help to improve air quality and promote sustainable transportation. * Economic Benefits: The Mission’s plan will also have economic benefits, such as creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

The Centre has set a target of reducing carbon emissions by 45% by 2030. The Centre has also set a target of reducing methane emissions by 50% by 2030. The Centre has also set a target of reducing nitrous oxide emissions by 40% by 2030.

India’s Climate Change Mitigation Strategy

The Indian government has set ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. The country aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 and become a developed nation by 2047. To achieve these goals, the Centre has set specific targets for reducing carbon, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions.

Key Targets

Reduce carbon emissions by 45% by 2030

Reduce methane emissions by 50% by 2030

Reduce nitrous oxide emissions by 40% by 2030

Strategies for Achieving Targets

The Centre has implemented various strategies to achieve these targets.